bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solvent‐Induced Flower‐ and Cudgel‐Shaped Porous Organic Polymers: Effective Supports of Palladium Nanoparticles for Dehalogenation in Net Water
Authors: Xu Xiahong , Li Zhonglin , Sui Yan , Huang Wei , Chen Wentong , Li Xiaodan , Liu Dongsheng , Li Yuntong , Deng Fei , Zhou Gangyong , Zhong Lina , Zhong Hong
Published: December 2021

Dehalogenation of aromatic halides is one of the most important reactions for detoxification of water ecosystems; at the same time the ability is inevitably tied to the dispersibility of catalyst in aqueous medium. Herein, we present aporous organic polymers containing hydrophilic urea groups (UPOPs) for effective immobilization of palladium nanoparticles (NPs) through a facile urea‐forming condensation reaction. The urea groups not only serve as an intriguing linkage of organic framework, but also endows Pd@UPOPs outstanding dispersibility in H2O. The morphology of UPOPs have exerted important influence upon the size and dispersion of palladium NPs as well as their catalytic performances. The palladium NPs are well dispersed on the surface of UPOP‐1 with an average size of 2.1±0.3 nm. In contrast, palladium NPs on UPOP‐2 exhibit a dual size distribution with an average diameter of 2.0±0.4 and 4.2±0.4 nm. The dehalogenation reactions of chlorobenzene have demonstrated that Pd@UPOP‐1 with flower‐shaped morphology show higher catalytic activity, recyclability and stability than that of Pd@UPOP‐2 with cudgel‐shaped morphology. This work offers/supplies a new insight for the development of efficient catalytic systems based on porous organic polymers supported metal NPs in aqueous medium.
Genetic variation in agronomic traits of Erianthus germplasm under multiple‐ratoon crops in Thailand
Authors: Terajima Yoshifumi , Ponragdee Werapon , Sansayawichai Taksina , Tippayawat Amarawan , Chanachai Sangdaun , Ebina Masumi , Sugimoto Akira , Takagi Hiroko , Hayashi Hisayoshi
Published: December 2021

Erianthus species have potential as breeding materials for sugarcane and as a biomass crop for fiber production. However, limited information about their genetic variation in agronomic traits hinders their practical utilization. Thus, in this study, we evaluated genetic variation and genetic correlations among 11 agronomic traits in plants grown as multiple‐ratoon crops (plant crop to the third ratoon crop) for 98 clones of E. arundinaceus and 32 clones of E. procerus collected across Thailand. Among the clones tested, large genetic variation was observed in the 4‐yr average, range, and genetic coefficient of variation of dry matter yield for both E. arundinaceus (12.1, 2.2 to 30.6 kg stool−1, and 41.7%, respectively) and E. procerus (8.0, 2.7 to 16.3 kg stool−1, and 25.5%, respectively). Many clones provided better dry matter yield and lower yield reductions in ratoon crops than a sugarcane cultivar (Saccharum spp. hybrid, 5.2 kg stool−1) and Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum, 6.6 kg stool−1). Genetic variation was observed for stalk number, stalk length, stalk diameter, single stalk weight, Brix, dry matter content, and proportions of both pith and stem parts in stalks, which are important traits in sugarcane breeding. The dry matter yield showed the highest genetic correlation with stalk number (.958 in E. arundinaceus and .700 in E. procerus). Based on the results, clones with various combinations of advantageous traits were identified as promising genetic resources. These results provide important agronomic information that can be used to exploit this Erianthus germplasm for sugarcane improvement and fiber production in Thailand.
Multicellular mechanochemical hybrid cellular Potts model of tissue formation during epithelial‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Hirway Shreyas U. , Lemmon Christopher A. , Weinberg Seth H.
Published: December 2021

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) is the transdifferentiation of epithelial cells to a mesenchymal phenotype, in which cells lose epithelial‐like cell–cell adhesions and gain mesenchymal‐like enhanced contractility and mobility. EMT is crucial for tissue regeneration and is also implicated in pathological conditions, such as cancer metastasis. Prior work has shown that transforming growth factor‐1 (TGF‐1) is a potent inducer of this biological process. In this study, we develop a computational model coupling mechanical and biochemical signaling in a multicellular tissue undergoing EMT. Specifically, we utilize a recently developed formulation that integrates a multicellular cellular Potts model (CPM), a lattice‐based stochastic model governing cell movement; a first moment of area model, governing cellular traction and junctional forces; a finite element model, which defines extracellular matrix (ECM) substrate strains; an intracellular signaling TGF‐1‐mediated EMT model that governs cellular phenotype; and an extracellular signaling component governing ECM and TGF‐1 signaling. In this study, we modeled the spatial cellular patterns that occur in tissue and the ECM during EMT. Our model predicts that EMT often initially occurs at a tissue boundary due to mechanochemical coupling, which results in transdifferentiation to progress inwards toward the center. Variation in model parameters demonstrated conditions enhancing and suppressing EMT, especially to drive EMT in the absence of TGF‐1 and inhibit EMT in the presence of TGF‐1. Specifically, enhancing the mechanochemical feedback typically promoted EMT, whereas greater assembled ECM degradation suppressed EMT. Simulated scratch test experiments illustrate that ECM composition can impact closure directly through EMT signaling. In conclusion, we integrated mechanical, biochemical, and extracellular signaling networks in a novel hybrid computational model to reproduce tissue formation dynamics of EMT.
Acetylene/Vinylene‐Bridged π‐Conjugated Covalent Triazine Polymers for Photocatalytic Aerobic Oxidation Reactions under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Lan Xingwang , Wang Juan , Li Qing , Wang Aiqing , Zhang Yize , Yang Xianheng , Bai Guoyi
Published: December 2021

Solar‐driven photocatalytic chemical transformation provides a sustainable strategy to produce valuable feedstock, but designing photocatalysts with high efficiency remains challenging. Herein, two acetylene‐ or vinylene‐bridged π‐conjugated covalent triazine polymers, A‐CTP‐DPA and V‐CTP‐DPE, were successfully fabricated toward metal‐free photocatalytic oxidation under visible light irradiation. Compared to the one without acetylene or vinylene bridge, both resulting polymers exhibited superior activity in photocatalytic selective oxidation of sulfides and oxidative coupling of amines; in particular, A‐CTP‐DPA delivered an optimal photocatalytic performance. The superior activity was attributed to the broadened spectral response range, effective separation, rapid transportation of photogenerated charge carriers, and abundant active sites for photogenerated electrons due to the existence of the acetylene bridge in the framework. This work highlights the potential of acetylene and vinylene bridges in tuning catalytic efficiency of organic semiconductors, providing a guideline for the design of efficient photocatalysts.
Solar Water Splitting Using Earth‐Abundant Electrocatalysts Driven by High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Asiri Abdullah M. , Ren Dan , Zhang Hong , Bahadar Khan Sher , Alamry Khalid A , Marwani Hadi M. , Sherjeel Javed Khan Mohammad , Adeosun Waheed A. , Zakeeruddin Shaik M. , Grätzel Michael
Published: December 2021

Hydrogen is considered as the “holy grail” for the energy community. One of the most promising strategies to produce hydrogen is to split water using renewable energy such as solar radiation. The abundance of water and solar energy enables the potential of scaling‐up of this new technology, if suitable electrocatalysts and solar cells are developed. In this work, a series of materials made of earth‐abundant elements was investigated for hydrogen evolution or oxygen evolution reaction. Among the developed catalysts, MoS2 and NiFe showed the best activities for proton reduction and water oxidation, respectively. These catalysts were further integrated into an alkaline electrolyzer, which delivered a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at a cell voltage of 1.9 V for water splitting. Using two in‐series‐connected perovskite solar cells (PSCs) as a power source, a remarkable solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency of 12.67 % was achieved in an alkaline electrolyzer with a partial current density of 10.3 mA cm−2 for hydrogen production. The usage of earth‐abundant catalysts in this study, together with the employment of low‐cost perovskite light absorber, shows the potential of scaling up this type of photovoltaic electrolyzer for sustainable hydrogen production.
Aerobic training reduces pancreatic fat content and improves β‐cell function: A randomized controlled trial using IDEAL‐IQ magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Li Min , Zheng Qidong , Miller Joshua D. , Zuo Panpan , Yuan Xiaodan , Feng Jitao , Liu Chao , Bao Shan , Lou Qingqing
Published: December 2021

Aims

To explore the effects of six months of moderate‐intensity aerobic exercise on pancreatic fat content and its impact on β‐cell function.

Materials and Methods

A total of 106 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were randomized to either a moderate‐intensity aerobic training group (three times a week, including 5 min warm‐up, 50 min aerobic dancing, and 5 min relaxation, n = 53) or control group (n = 53) with 6‐month intervention. The primary endpoint was change in pancreatic fat content. An intention‐to‐treat analysis was conducted.

Results

Eighty‐six patients completed the study with 43 patients in the aerobic training group. The average age, HbA1c, and pancreatic fat content for all participants (106 patients) were 66.39 ± 5.59 years, 7.05 ± 1.24%, and 10.35 ± 9.20%, respectively. Nearly half (49.06%) of patients were males. Subjects in the aerobic training group saw a significant reduction in pancreatic fat content when compared to controls (p = 0.001). In logistic regression models containing age, diabetes duration, change in BMI, smoking/drinking status, changes in lipid indices, and other abdominal fat content, only reduction in pancreatic fat content (p < 0.05) was an independent protective factor for β‐cell function and HbA1c.

Conclusions

Six months of moderate‐intensity aerobic training significantly reduced the pancreatic fat content. The reduction of pancreatic fat content was an independent protective factor for β‐cell function and HbA1c.
Testing the effectiveness of genetic monitoring using genetic non‐invasive sampling
Authors: Schultz Anthony James , Strickland Kasha , Cristescu Romane H. , Hanger Jonathan , de Villiers Deidre , Frère Céline H.
Published: December 2021

Effective conservation requires accurate data on population genetic diversity, inbreeding, and genetic structure. Increasingly, scientists are adopting genetic non‐invasive sampling (gNIS) as a cost‐effective population‐wide genetic monitoring approach. gNIS has, however, known limitations which may impact the accuracy of downstream genetic analyses. Here, using high‐quality single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data from blood/tissue sampling of a free‐ranging koala population (n = 430), we investigated how the reduced SNP panel size and call rate typical of genetic non‐invasive samples (derived from experimental and field trials) impacts the accuracy of genetic measures, and also the effect of sampling intensity on these measures. We found that gNIS at small sample sizes (14% of population) can provide accurate population diversity measures, but slightly underestimated population inbreeding coefficients. Accurate measures of internal relatedness required at least 33% of the population to be sampled. Accurate geographic and genetic spatial autocorrelation analysis requires between 28% and 51% of the population to be sampled. We show that gNIS at low sample sizes can provide a powerful tool to aid conservation decision‐making and provide recommendations for researchers looking to apply these techniques to free‐ranging systems.
Effect of landiolol in patients with tachyarrhythmias and acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF): a case series
Authors: Ditali Valentina , Garatti Laura , Morici Nuccia , Villanova Luca , Colombo Claudia , Oliva Fabrizio , Sacco Alice
Published: December 2021

Tachycardia and rapid tachyarrhythmias are common in acute clinical settings and may hasten the deterioration of haemodynamics in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), treated with inotropes. The concomitant use of a short‐acting β1‐selective beta‐blocker, such as landiolol, could rapidly and safely restore an adequate heart rate without any negative inotropic effect. We present a case series of five patients with left ventricular dysfunction, admitted to our Intensive Cardiac Care Unit with ADHF deteriorated to cardiogenic shock, treated with a combination of landiolol and inotropes. Landiolol was effective in terms of rate control and haemodynamics optimization, enabling de‐escalation of catecholamine dosing in all patients. The infusion was always well tolerated without hypotension. In conclusion, a continuous infusion of a low dose of landiolol (3–16 mcg/kg/min) to manage tachycardia and ventricular or supraventricular tachyarrhythmias in haemodynamically unstable patients may be considered.
Multi‐objective optimization and decision‐making of the combined control law of guide vane and pressure regulating valve for hydroelectric unit
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Zhou Jianzhong , Yang Xin , Li Honghui
Published: December 2021

This paper aimed to investigate the multi‐objective optimization and decision‐making of the combined control law of guide vane (CCLGV) and pressure regulating valve (PRV) for hydroelectric unit under load rejection. Firstly, the multi‐objective optimization problem of CCLGV‐PRV is formulated. Then, a new multi‐objective gravitation search algorithm with non‐dominated screening and chaos mutation (NCMOGSA) is adopted to solve it. Moreover, an improved entropy weight method and relative objective proximity method are applied to select suitable solution. Finally, a comprehensive comparative study is carried out to reveal the mechanism between the CCLGV‐PRV and several basic parameters. The results indicate that replacing surge tank with PRV can effectively solve the contradictory between water pressure at the bottom of volute and rotational speed under load rejection. The NCMOGSA shows excellent performance in solving the multi‐objective optimization problem of CCLGV‐PRV and get a group of Pareto set. The improved entropy weight and relative objective proximity method make the final scheme clear. The rise rate of rotational speed is completely determined by the guide vane (GV), and the water pressure is jointly determined by the control law of the GV and PRV. The two‐stage closing and two‐stage opening (TCTO) is the final recommendation for CCLGV‐PRV.
Schiff‐bases for sustainable battery and supercapacitor electrodes
Authors: Troschke Erik , Oschatz Martin , Ilic Ivan K.
Published: December 2021

The quest for more efficient ways to store electrical energy prompted the development of different storage devices over the last decades. This includes but is not limited to different battery concepts and supercapacitors. However, modern batteries rely on electrochemical principles that often involve transition metals which can for instance suffer from toxicity or limited availability. More sustainable alternatives are needed. This sparked the search for organic electrode materials. Nevertheless, compared to their inorganic counterparts, organic electrode materials remain less intensely investigated. Besides the often more complicated electrochemical principles, one likely reason for that are the complex synthetic skills required to develop novel organic materials. Here we review materials synthesized by an old and comparably simple reaction from the field of organic chemistry, namely Schiff‐base formation. This reaction can often yield materials under relatively mild conditions, making them especially interesting for the formation of sustainable electrodes. The main weakness of Schiff‐base materials, susceptibility to hydrolysis, is of limited concern in most of the battery systems as they mostly anyways require water‐free conditions. This review gives an overview of some selected nanomaterials obtained from Schiff‐base formation as well as their carbonized derivatives which are of interest for energy storage. Firstly, the general chemistry of Schiff‐bases is introduced, followed by an in‐depth survey of the most important breakthroughs in the formation of organic battery electrodes that involve materials based on Schiff‐base reaction. Lastly, an outlook considering the main hurdles as well as future perspectives of this research area is given.
Starch composition and functional properties of raw and pretreated anchote (Coccinia abyssinica (Lam.) Cogn.) tuber flours dried at different temperatures
Authors: Bikila Adugna Mosissa , Tola Yetenayet Bekele , Esho Tarekegn Berhanu , Forsido Sirawdink Fikreyesus , Mijena Desta Fekadu
Published: December 2021

Anchote (Coccinia abyssinica (Lam.) Cogn.) is an indigenous tuber crop produced in southwest part of Ethiopia. As an indigenous and underutilized tuber, limited scientific information is available about the characteristics of dried anchote powder. In this study, attempts were made to investigate the starch composition and functional properties of flours produced from the raw and pretreated tuber dried at different temperatures (60, 80, and 100°C). The results showed that both pretreatment and drying temperature significantly (p < .05) affected the amylose/amylopectin ratio, pH, total soluble solids (TSS), water absorption capacity (WAC), oil absorption capacity (OAC), water absorption index (WAI), water solubility index (WSI), swelling power (SP), total polyphenols content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC). The treatment combinations result in varied ranges of pH (5.70–6.47), TSS (5.37–10.8 °Brix), WAC (2.42–4.21 g/g), OAC (0.94–1.44 g/g), WAI (3.40–5.42 g/g), WSI (11.40%–20.37%), SP (4.56–7.20 g/g), foaming capacity (FC) (3.31%–33.33%), foam stability (FS) (1.89%–20.00%), amylose content (AC) (14.18%–36.11% ), TPC (0.22–0.80 mg GAE/g), and TFC content (0.12–0.44 mg CE/g). The blanched and boiled anchote flours dried at relatively lower drying temperature exhibited better WAC, SP, and WAI than the raw. Considering the determined parameters, the flour from the tuber can be used as an ingredient in different food formulations.
Late Indosinian granitoids in the Zhacanggou, Guide Basin, NW China: Whole‐rock geochemistry, zircon U–Pb geochronology, Lu–Hf isotopes, and implications for magma mixing
Authors: Han Shijiong , Cao Chenggang , Han Yingshan , Huang Biyun , Shi Kaizhang , Ma Youwei , Wang Yidian , Jia Yushan
Published: December 2021

The Guide Basin, located in the West Qinling orogen of central China, is a typical geothermal field. However, the granodiorites occurring in the Zhacanggou area have been poorly restricted. Herein, we report new isotopic compositions of whole‐rock major‐trace elements, zircon U–Pb, and Lu–Hf, on the host granodiorites and their microgranular enclaves (MEs) in the Zhacanggou area. Zircon U–Pb dating for the host rocks (porphyritic granodiorite and granodiorite) revealed ages of 230.5 ± 1.4 Ma and 229.0 ± 1.6 Ma, similar to those (230.5 ± 1.5 Ma and 231.4 ± 1.4 Ma) of the MEs. Zircon Hf isotope analyses for the granodiorite and MEs yielded εHf(t) values from −11.0 to −1.5 and from −7.8 to −0.7, with corresponding TDM2 ages of 1,355–1,959 and 1,304–1,755, respectively. The MEs possess plagioclase phenocrysts, acicular apatites, and chilled borders. They were characterized by relatively low SiO2 (58.39–65.24 wt%) and high Cr, Ni, and MgO contents, leading to relatively high Mg# values (44–59) and low Sr/Y (14.23–19.84) ratios. The host granodioritic rocks show similar adakitic geochemical characteristics with SiO2 = 64.23–68.57 wt%, MgO = 1.29–2.22 wt%, Mg# = 48–53, Sr = 340–596 ppm, Y = 11.3–13.7 ppm, Sr/Y = 28.39–47.89, and no obvious Eu anomalies. These geochemical and isotopic data, combined with the mineralogical features, indicate that the granodiorites in the Zhacanggou area were produced by the mixing of high‐Mg# melts originating from an enriched lithospheric mantle source, and felsic magmas deriving by the partial melting of the normal lower continental crust with the tectonic regime transition from a syn‐collision to a post‐collision setting.
Local radiotherapy versus nonradiotherapy to distant lesions for metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yang Lianlian , Xue Yinyin , Wei Zhigong , Ren Kexing , Liu Zheran , Chang Tangel , Peng Xingchen , Su Yonglin , Li Yan
Published: December 2021

Background

To evaluate the efficiency of local radiotherapy to metastatic lesions in patients with metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (mNPC).

Methods

The overall survival was observed and compared for mNPC patients who received local radiotherapy versus nonradiotherapy to metastatic lesions by using the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox analysis.

Results

One hundred and nine patients with NPC were involved in this study, with 61 (56.0%) received radiotherapy to metastatic sites and 48 (44.0%) did not receive radiotherapy to metastatic sites. The 2‐ and 5‐year OS for patients who received local radiotherapy to metastatic lesions were 65.8% and 35.7%, and for patients who did not receive radiotherapy to metastatic lesions were 45.3% and 26.2%. The multivariable adjusted hazard radios for local radiotherapy versus nonradiotherapy to metastatic lesions were 0.482 (95% confidence interval is 0.278–0.834, p = 0.009).

Conclusions

Local radiotherapy to metastatic lesions might be a protective factor for patients with mNPC.
Regular aerobic exercise is positively associated with hippocampal structure and function in young and middle‐aged adults
Authors: Hendrikse Joshua , Chye Yann , Thompson Sarah , Rogasch Nigel C. , Suo Chao , Coxon James P. , Yücel Murat
Published: December 2021

Regular exercise has numerous benefits for brain health, including the structure and function of the hippocampus. The hippocampus plays a critical role in memory function, and is altered in a number of psychiatric disorders associated with memory impairments (e.g., depression and schizophrenia), as well as healthy aging. While many studies have focused on how regular exercise may improve hippocampal integrity in older individuals, less is known about these effects in young to middle‐aged adults. Therefore, we assessed the associations of regular exercise and cardiorespiratory fitness with hippocampal structure and function in these age groups. We recruited 40 healthy young to middle‐aged adults, comprised of two groups (n = 20) who self‐reported either high or low levels of exercise, according to World Health Organization guidelines. We assessed cardiorespiratory fitness using a graded exercise test (VO2max) and hippocampal structure via manual tracing of T1‐weighted magnetic resonance images. We also assessed hippocampal function using magnetic resonance spectroscopy to derive estimates of N‐acetyl‐aspartate concentration and hippocampal‐dependent associative memory and pattern separation tasks. We observed evidence of increased N‐acetyl‐aspartate concentration and associative memory performance in individuals engaging in high levels of exercise. However, no differences in hippocampal volume or pattern separation capacity were observed between groups. Cardiorespiratory fitness was positively associated with left and right hippocampal volume and N‐acetyl‐aspartate concentration. However, no associations were observed between cardiorespiratory fitness and associative memory or pattern separation. Therefore, we provide evidence that higher levels of exercise and cardiorespiratory fitness are associated with improved hippocampal structure and function. Exercise may provide a low‐risk, effective method of improving hippocampal integrity in an early‐to‐mid‐life stage.
A Review of Nerds, Goths, Geeks, and Freaks: Outsiders in Chicanx and Latinx Young Adult Literature
Authors: Flores Tracey T.
Published: December 2021

In this column, I review the book, “Nerds, Goths, Geeks, and Freaks: Outsiders in Chicanx and Latinx Young Adult Literature,” edited by Trevor Boffone and Cristina Herrera. The essays in this collection examine and interrogate the many ways to be, perform, and present as Chicanx and Latinx youths, both historically and in contemporary society. I offer suggestions for how teachers and teacher educators may use this book as a resource to engage in critical dialogue and develop curriculum that center Chicanx and Latinx voices.
Extraction of fulvic acid by citric acid–ethanol method and its biochemical activity
Authors: Gong Guan‐Qun , Wang Zi‐Yan , Zhang Ying‐Jie , Xu Wan‐Xing , Li Zhi‐Ling , Liang Shao‐Jie , Li Ruo‐Nan , Lu Shan
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

With the widespread application of fulvic acid (FA) in agriculture, improving the industrial yield of FA has become an urgent priority. Therefore, it is particularly important to explore efficient and clean process conditions for the factory production of FA from low‐rank coal, as undertaken in this study. Additionally, an in‐depth study of the biological activity of FA was performed to provide a theoretical reference for its practical application.

RESULTS

Results showed that, when the reaction temperature was 70 °C, the ratio of citric acid to coal was 0.03:1, the ratio of liquid to solid was 10:1 and the concentration of ethanol was 15%, the average yield of FA was about 80‰. Seed soaking with FA promoted seed germination and improved seedling quality. As the concentration of FA for seed soaking increased, the germination potential, amount of reduced tetrazole and root length were reduced, but the relative electrical conductivity and chlorophyll content were increased.

CONCLUSION

Coal‐based FA was effectively extracted by the citric acid–ethanol method and the yield of FA was relatively high under the optimum conditions. The treatment of cucumber seeds and seedlings with different concentrations of FA effectively promoted seed germination and seedling growth. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
The dental “box of horrors” clinical practice game: A pilot project
Authors: Borsa Leslie , Tramini Paul , Lupi Laurence
Published: December 2021

Background

The dental department of the University Hospital of Nice has set the “box of horrors,” an innovative concept inspired by the “room of horrors,” created in 2006 in Canada, and utilized since 2011 in France.

Purpose

The aim was to assess the impact and perceived value of this clinical practice game utilized by fourth‐year dental students.

Methods

This pilot study following a cross‐sectional pre‐ and posttest research design was used to assess students’ change in performance. The experimental group was divided into 12 students teams (n = 50). A questionnaire was completed before they entered the box; they had then to find out 10 errors hidden in the box in a set time. A debriefing was held immediately after. The control group answered the same questions but did not follow the course inside the box. The percentages of correct answers were compared between the two groups with a Mann–Whitney test, and the scores per student were analyzed with a mixed effects ordinal multiple logistic regression. Finally, a satisfaction questionnaire was proposed.

Results

After the course, the students from the experimental group performed 94% correct answers, while those from the control group showed 78% (significant difference). The outcome of the mixed effect multiple regression showed a significant group effect (p = 0.0001) and gender effect (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Clinical games, although complex to implement, are interesting and rewarding tools. The adaptation of the tool to the dental sector appeared to be feasible.
Implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion dialogue for second‐year dental students
Authors: Haley Colin M. , Brown Blase P.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Dental schools can support diversity and inclusion efforts through curricula targeted at providing a safe space for students to learn from each other and about themselves. Opportunities to learn about different backgrounds can improve levels of cultural sensitivity and improve inclusion. The aim of this study was to describe the implementation of a diversity dialogue tool for second‐year dental students and evaluate student responses to this activity.

Methods

Following a 3‐h small group diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) dialogue, students completed a 3‐2‐1 reflective activity to determine new ideas that they encountered, ideas they would like to try, and things that they would like to know more about.

Results

Of the 66 students that participated in the DEI dialogue, 44 participated in the reflective activity for a response rate of 66%. Four significant new ideas were encountered including the concept of intersectionality (25%), the effects of race, racism, and identity on health (20.5), how to react to bias or discrimination (20.5%), and identity and their effect on perceptions of health and wellness (15.9). Three ideas students might try included being more open to learning about others' identity (52.3%), communicating openly with patients and peers (34.1%), and communicating calmly when dealing with bias or discrimination (13.6%). Two things students would like to know more about included how to handle situations of discrimination and bias (27.3%) and the existence of health disparities and how to address them (15.9%).

Conclusion

Creating an opportunity for a DEI dialogue led to students encountering new information (intersectionality; effect of bias on health), identified targeted areas of future behavioral change (open and calm communication with others), and provided insight into areas of student interest (dealing with bias and addressing health disparities).
Size‐frequency distributions and physical properties of chondrules from x‐ray computed microtomography and digital data extraction
Authors: Friedrich Jon M. , Chen Matthiew M. , Giordano Stephanie A. , Matalka Olivia K. , Strasser Juliette W. , Tamucci Kirstin A. , Rivers Mark L. , Ebel Denton S.
Published: December 2021

Within this work, we present the first true three‐dimensional (3D) analysis of chondrule size. Knowledge about the physical properties of chondrules is important for validating astrophysical theories concerning chondrule formation and their aggregation into the chondritic meteorites (known as chondrites) that contain them. The classification of chondrites into chemical groups also relies on chondrule properties, including their dimensions. Within this work, we quantify the diameters of chondrules in five ordinary chondrites (OCs; comprised of the H, L, and LL chondrites) and one low‐iron enstatite (EL) chondrite. To extract the chondrule size data, we use x‐ray computed microtomography to image small (~1–2 cm3) chondrite samples followed by manual digital segmentation to isolate chondrules within the volumes or subvolumes. Our data yield true 3D results without stereographic corrections necessary for two‐dimensional (2D) or petrographic thin section‐based determinations of chondrule sizes. Our results are completely novel, but are consistent with previous surface analysis (2D) data for OCs. Within our OC chondrule diameter data, we find the trend of mean chondrule diameters increasing in the order H < L < LL. We also present the first detailed EL chondrite chondrule size‐frequency distribution. Finally, we examine the shapes and collective orientations of the chondrules within the chondrites and show that chondrite petrofabrics can be explored with our methodology. Chondrule shape‐preferred orientations are identical to the orientations of the metal and sulfide grains in the chondrites and this is likely due to impact‐related compaction.

Highlights

We present a first true three‐dimensional analysis of chondrule size.

Our ordinary chondrite chondrule diameter data demonstrate the trend of mean chondrule diameters increasing in the order H chondrites < L chondrites < LL chondrites.

We also present the first detailed low‐iron enstatite chondrite chondrule size‐frequency distribution.

We examine the shapes and collective orientations of the chondrules and show that chondrite petrofabrics can be explored with our methodology.
Synthesis, characterization and in vitro bioactivity studies of isoindolin‐1‐3‐phosophonate compounds
Authors: Jelali Hamida , Al Nasr Ibrahim S. , Koko Waleed S. , Khan Tariq A. , Deniau Eric , Sauthier Mathieu , Alresheedi Faisal , Hamdi Naceur
Published: December 2021

In this work, efficient synthesis of isoindolin‐1‐one‐3‐phosphonates under catalyst‐ and solvent‐free conditions was reported to afford the desired compounds in excellent yields with potent pharmacological properties. The synthesis method involves the preparation of isoindolin‐1‐one‐3‐phosphonates by a “one‐pot” three‐component reaction of 2‐formylbenzoic acid with primary amines and dimethyl phosphite under solvent‐ and catalyst‐free conditions. All new compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT‐IR and elemental analysis techniques. The compounds were investigated for their bioactivities against a group of microorganisms, Leishmania major, Toxoplasma gondii parasites, and the DA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7 cancer cell lines in vitro. Compound 4a was found to be the most active against L. M. luteus, L. monocytogenes and C. albicans microorganisms, with inhibition zones of 35, 22 and 38 mm, respectively. The compounds were also investigated for their antiparasitic activities, and compounds 4a and 4b were the most active against L. major amastigotes and promastigotes with EC50 < 1 μM. All tested compounds had potent anticancer activity against the MDA‐MB‐231 and MCF‐7 human cell lines with EC50 < 1.5 μM. Compounds 4a and 4b are good drug candidates for antimicrobial, antileishmanial and anticancer drug discovery, and further in vivo studies are highly recommended prior to any clinical trials.
Profiling of trace elemental impurities in caustic soda matrix by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric technique
Authors: Patidar Rajesh , Rebary Babulal , Bhadu Gopala R. , Shah Lalit
Published: December 2021

An inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometric (ICP‐MS) technique method is developed for simultaneous determination of Li, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Co, Cu, Sr, Ag, Cd, Ba, and Pb at trace level in caustic soda. Operational parameters of the instrument were optimized and suitable accessory (argon gas dilution) was used in the method. Direct aspiration of high total dissolved solids (TDS) samples (beyond 0.2% TDS) and highly alkaline NaOH is not suitable for the instrument; therefore, strategy of neutralization of NaOH by HNO3 was adopted to handle its high alkalinity. Suitable internal standards of low, mid, and high atomic masses were used with external calibration. Features such as matrix matching, calibration verification, interference correction, etc. were undertaken in this work. Neutralized caustic soda samples were spiked with the analytes with lower, middle, and higher concentration. The results of spiking with 30, 70, 140, and 200 ppb were examined. The method exhibited excellent accuracy and precision.
How does landscape permeability affect the movement of eastern red‐backed salamanders?
Authors: Snyder Rachel , Mausteller Emily , Matlaga Tanya J. Hawley , Miller David A. W.
Published: December 2021

Demographic and genetic connectivity have important implications for population dynamics of wildlife and their ability to adapt to changing environments. Landscape features such as roads and streams can inhibit movement of species with poor dispersal capabilities and exacerbate the effects of habitat fragmentation. Terrestrial plethodontid salamanders are generally thought of as incapable of long‐distance movement and may vary in their motivation to move across a landscape by sex and size classes. To examine landscape permeability to movement, we assessed how distance and natural or man‐made landscape features affect recapture rates after displacement in red‐backed salamanders (Plethodon cinereus). We randomly assigned marked salamanders from 6 plots at Camp Karoondinha in Millmont, Pennsylvania, USA, to a control (placed under the same cover board) or a treatment (displaced 25 m or 50 m through the forest or across a stream or road). Of 290 marked individuals, we recaptured 29.8%. We recaptured more individuals in the control treatment compared to displaced individuals, with recapture rates decreasing with the presence of a road or stream. Landscape feature type and sex did not affect the probability of recapture, but developmental stage did, with adult salamanders more likely to be recaptured than juvenile salamanders. Our results suggest that landscape permeability is reduced for terrestrial salamanders when a landscape feature is present compared to open forest. Narrow, dirt roads present a similar challenge to a natural stream for red‐backed salamanders. Our study should be of value to land managers who are concerned about the negative effects of landscape permeability on terrestrial salamander populations.
Cattle grazing in CRP grasslands during the nesting season: effects on avian reproduction
Authors: Kraus Heather M. , Jensen William E. , Houseman Gregory R. , Jameson Mary Liz , Reichenborn Molly M. , Watson D. Fraser , Kjaer Esben L.
Published: December 2021

Bird populations in grasslands have experienced declines coinciding with loss and fragmentation of prairies. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)‐administered Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is the most extensive grassland restoration program in North America and it has especially benefitted grassland birds. Grazing by domestic cattle has been restricted in CRP during avian nesting seasons despite the potential improvements in structuring habitat for a greater diversity of grassland bird species. Potential negative consequences of grazing in CRP grasslands include trampling of nests by cattle, reductions in nest concealment from predators, and attraction of brood‐parasitic brown‐headed cowbirds (Molothrus ater). We designed an experiment to test for effects of cattle grazing in CRP fields during the nesting season on nest survival and brood parasitism of 5 bird species that commonly nest in CRP grasslands: mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum), dickcissel (Spiza americana), and eastern (Sturnella magna) and western (S. neglecta) meadowlarks. Grazing was implemented during summers 2017 and 2018 on 17 of 36 fields followed by a year of rest on all fields in 2019. Of the 879 nests on grazed fields, only 4 were likely trampled by cattle (vs. 54% of all nests estimated as failing because of depredation). Experimental grazing (grazed vs. ungrazed fields) had variable effects on nest survival and cowbird parasitism among the bird species analyzed. Negative effects of grazing on daily nest survival of dickcissel and meadowlarks were apparent, at least in some years. We found no direct effects of grazing on nest survival of mourning dove or grasshopper sparrow. Probability and intensity (cowbird offspring/nest) of cowbird parasitism in dickcissel nests was higher on grazed versus ungrazed sites but only in conservation practice (CP) CP2 (vs. CP25 fields). Parasitism probability of grasshopper sparrow nests by cowbirds was higher on grazed fields in the 2 years after introduction of cattle in 2017. Greater vegetative concealment around nest sites was associated with reduced cowbird parasitism of meadowlark and grasshopper sparrow nests and higher nest survival for grasshopper sparrows. Reductions in vegetative height caused by longer‐term or high‐intensity grazing might therefore have negative consequences for some grassland birds by increasing nest site visibility and exposure to cowbird parasitism. Our results indicate that cattle grazing in CRP fields during the nesting season might have some negative effects on reproductive success of some grassland bird species, at least in the short term; however, the potential improvements of structuring habitat to accommodate more grassland bird species and increasing landowner participation in the CRP are considerable.
Besicovitch almost periodic solutions for fractional‐order quaternion‐valued neural networks with discrete and distributed delays
Authors: Li Yongkun , Huang Mei , Li Bing
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we study a class of fractional‐order quaternion‐valued neural networks with discrete and distributed delays by direct method. We first investigate some properties of Besicovitch almost periodic functions, including the composition theorem with deviating arguments. Then, we obtain the existence and uniqueness of Besicovitch almost periodic solutions for such class of networks by considering an appropriate Banach space and using the contraction mapping principle. Furthermore, by making use of a generalized Gronwall inequality, we gain the finite‐time stability of the Besicovitch almost periodic solution. Even if the network under consideration degenerates into a real‐valued or complex‐valued networks, the results of this paper are still brand new. Finally, we use a numerical example to show the feasibility of our theoretical results.
Thrombopoietin receptor agonists and rituximab for treatment of pediatric immune thrombocytopenia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective clinical trials
Authors: Ayad Nardeen , Grace Rachael F. , Al‐Samkari Hanny
Published: December 2021

Background

Children with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) may require second‐line ITP therapies. The high remission rate in pediatric patients, need for extended‐duration use of thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO‐RAs), drug adherence, potential side effects, monitoring, and cost effectiveness are factors that should be considered in decision‐making about second‐line therapies. Rituximab (RTX) has been used off‐label for years to treat ITP but there are limited studies about its efficacy and safety in children. To date, no studies have directly compared TPO‐RAs with RTX for the treatment of childhood ITP.

Methods

This systematic review analyzed the overall platelet response, durability of treatment effect, and safety for RTX use in comparison to TPO‐RAs in pediatric ITP. MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched through December 2020 and meta‐analysis was conducted using proportions of success/failure for each intervention in the selected studies.

Results

The proportion of participants achieving the primary endpoint of a platelet response above 50,000 was similar for TPO‐RAs (proportion = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.63–0.78) and RTX (proportion = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.53–0.82). However, considerable variation was found between the two groups with regards to the sustainability of the response and other secondary outcomes such as need for rescue and adverse events. RTX was associated with higher rates of rescue therapy.

Conclusions

In this analysis of prospective pediatric ITP studies, RTX and TPO‐RAs had similar rates of overall platelet response but differed in other important measures. Prospective comparative studies are needed to better characterize second‐line treatments for pediatric ITP.
Location of death and hospice use in children with cancer varies by type of health insurance
Authors: Johnston Emily E. , Davis Elizabeth S. , Bhatia Smita , Kenzik Kelly
Published: December 2021

Background

Disparities in end‐of‐life (EOL) care for children with cancer remain understudied. We addressed this gap by examining patterns of EOL care, with a focus on location of death and hospice utilization.

Methods

We used MarketScan – a nationally representative dataset with Medicaid and commercial claims to conduct a retrospective observational study of children with cancer who died between 2011 and 2017 at age ≤21 years. We examined rates of (a) home death, (b) hospice utilization, (c) and medically intense interventions in the last 30 days (e.g., intubation).

Results

Of the 1492 children in the cohort, 44% had Medicaid and 56% commercial insurance; 71% carried a solid tumor diagnosis, and 37% were between the ages of 15 and 21 years at the time of death. Forty percent died at home; children with Medicaid were less likely to die at home (relative risk [RR] = 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73–0.92; reference: commercial). Forty‐five percent enrolled in hospice, for a median of 2 days. Hospice enrollment rates did not vary with insurance. However, children with Medicaid spent less time enrolled (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.17–0.27). Among children with Medicaid, Black children were less likely to die at home (RR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.52–0.92) and enroll on hospice (RR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.55–0.91) than non‐Hispanic White children. Medically intense interventions did not vary with insurance or race.

Conclusion

Only 40% of children with cancer die at home, and the duration of hospice enrollment is short. EOL care varies significantly with insurance. It is imperative that we determine if these patterns and disparities represent EOL preferences, provider biases, or differences in quality or availability of hospice.
Chemotherapy‐induced thrombocytopenia in Ewing sarcoma: Implications and potential for romiplostim supportive care
Authors: Merjaneh Nawal , Young Jennifer , Mangoli Avani , Olsen Mallery , Setty Bhuvana , Lane Adam , Nagarajan Rajaram , Pressey Joseph G. , Turpin Brian
Published: December 2021

Background

Maintaining dose‐dense, interval‐compressed chemotherapy improves survival in patients with Ewing sarcoma but is limited by myelosuppression. Romiplostim is a thrombopoietin receptor agonist that may be useful in the treatment of chemotherapy‐induced thrombocytopenia (CIT).

Methods

Patients aged between 3 and 33 years with Ewing sarcoma from 2010 to 2020 were reviewed. CIT was defined as a failure to achieve 75,000 platelets per microliter by day 21 after the start of any chemotherapy cycle. Fisher's exact test was used for univariate analysis and Pearson's correlation coefficient was used for the association between continuous variables.

Results

Twenty‐seven out of 42 patients (64%) developed isolated CIT, delaying one to four chemotherapy cycles per patient. CIT occurred during consolidation therapy in 24/27(88.9%) and with ifosfamide/etoposide cycles in 24/27 (88.9%). Univariate analysis failed to identify risk factors for CIT. The use of radiation approached significance (p‐value = .056). Ten patients received romiplostim. The median starting dose was 3 μg/kg (range 1–5). Doses were escalated weekly by 1–2 to 4–10 μg/kg and continued throughout chemotherapy. A higher romiplostim dose was associated with a higher change in average platelet counts from baseline, r = .73 (p = .04). No romiplostim‐related adverse events were identified aside from mild headache.

Conclusions

CIT is the primary reason for the inability to maintain treatment intensity in Ewing sarcoma. The concurrent use of romiplostim with chemotherapy was safe and feasible, and efficacy was associated with higher romiplostim doses.
Comments on “Essential work of fracture analysis for surface modified carbon fiber/polypropylene composites with different interfacial adhesion” [Polymer Composites 41 (9) (2020): 3541–3551]
Authors: Rajaee Pouya , Ashenai Ghasemi Faramarz , Fasihi Mohammad
Published: December 2021

In this paper, some comments on the study “Essential work of fracture analysis for surface modified carbon fiber/polypropylene composites with different interfacial adhesion” Polymer Composites 41 (9) (2020): 3541–3551, have been discussed. The comments are mostly concentrated on the technique utilized for the assessment of the parameters of fracture toughness. The essential work of fracture (EWF) approach was employed for all the samples to characterize the fracture manner, while it appears that some of the samples did not meet the prerequisites of the EWF method. These prerequisites are as follows: the ligament length must be completely yielded before the onset of crack propagation, self‐similarity between load–displacement curves is a requirement, and fracture must occur under plane stress conditions. Therefore, the information, data, and results obtained by the authors are questionable.