bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Von Willebrand disease type Vicenza: In search of a classification for the archetype of reduced von Willebrand factor survival
Authors: Casonato Alessandra , Galletta Eva , Galvanin Federico , Daidone Viviana
Published: May 2021

Type Vicenza von Willebrand disease (VWD) features a von Willebrand factor (VWF) with a very short half‐life, and is classified as a form of type 1 VWD. To test the appropriateness of type Vicenza VWD classification, the main features of 17 patients from eight unrelated families were analysed. They had low VWF antigen levels and function (always below 20 U/dl); ristocetin‐induced platelet aggregation sometimes normal, sometimes reduced/absent (even in the same patient); normal platelet VWF levels; an increased VWF propeptide to VWF antigen ratio (8.74 ± 1.65 vs. normal 1.04 ± 0.28) and a reduced VWF half‐life. Plasma VWF multimer levels were homogeneously reduced, and unusually large VWF multimers were sometimes present. Recombinant p.R1205H VWF showed a normal synthesis, release, function, and multimer pattern, with no ultra‐large VWF multimers. The mathematical model by Galvanin et al. was used to explore the kinetic changes in VWF after DDAVP. It showed that the release, but especially the proteolysis (kproteol 1.0−3 ± 2.5−3 vs. normal 4.5−4 ± 6.4−4) and elimination (kel 1.0−2 ± 5.2−3 vs. normal 1.1−3 ± 6.8−4) of type Vicenza VWF were significantly higher than normal. The increased elimination is consistent with the short half‐life, while the increased proteolysis was unexpected. As a shorter survival of VWF is wholly responsible for the type Vicenza VWD phenotype (VWF synthesis, structure and function are normal), it might be better to classify it as a type 2 VWD (rather than type 1) to emphasise the greater interaction with clearance receptors as a new VWF functional defect.
Detection and quantification of small concentrations of moxifloxacin using surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy in a Kretschmann configuration
Authors: Mohaghegh Faezeh , Mazaheri Tehrani Alireza , Rana Debkumar , Winterhalter Mathias , Materny Arnulf
Published: May 2021

A relatively simple experimental procedure is proposed for the simultaneous detection and quantitative assessment of moxifloxacin (Moxi) as an example for an antibiotic using surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) performed in a Kretschmann configuration (KC). The example of Moxi shows the advantage of this approach, such as high sensitivity and relatively simple experimental procedure. The Moxi was reliably detected at levels of 100 nM using excitation laser powers as low as a few milliwatts. We also demonstrate that in the KC, the direct coupling between the electronic systems of analyte molecules and metal substrate contributing to the chemical enhancement mechanism in SERS plays a major role. For this, we have performed simulations based on density functional theory (DFT). The line profile of the SERS spectra can be explained by the direct coupling of molecular sites to the metal. This adds to the molecular specificity of SERS when using the KC.
Hydrology controls the carbon mass balance of a mountain lake in the eastern European Alps
Authors: Ejarque Elisabet , Scholz Katharina , Wohlfahrt Georg , Battin Tom J. , Kainz Martin J. , Schelker Jakob
Published: May 2021

Lakes and streams in mountain regions are important contributors to carbon (C) fluxes. However, detailed carbon balances of the stream‐lake continuum are rare. Combining eddy covariance (EC) measurements of lake‐atmosphere net ecosystem CO2 exchange with measurements of fluvial C fluxes (dissolved organic C, DOC; particulate organic C, POC; dissolved inorganic C, DIC), and in‐lake sedimentation, we here present a detailed annual C balance of an oligotrophic clearwater lake in the eastern European Alps. The C flux into the lake was 1522 Mg C year−1 by DIC (93%), DOC (6%), and POC (0.7%). The largest C losses were fluvial exports (1595 Mg C year−1) of DIC (93%), DOC (6%), and POC (0.8%), while sedimentation accounted for 7.3 Mg C year−1. The residual of all fluvial and sedimentation fluxes revealed the lake as a net sink of atmospheric CO2 of 77 Mg C year−1. The EC measurement confirmed a small positive or negative contribution of atmospheric exchange to the lake C balance. In‐lake transfer among C pools was only significant for the flux from DIC to POC (8.4 Mg C year−1), which, following our model, is the transfer through primary production in summer. Fluvial DOC and DIC fluxes were controlled by discharge; POC retention and sedimentation depended on the meteorological season and in‐lake residence time. Following our findings, we conclude that hydrology acted as the most important control for the C balance of this clearwater mountain lake by controlling inflow, outflow, and sedimentation fluxes.
Low diversity of a key phytoplankton group along the West Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Brown Michael S. , Bowman Jeff S. , Lin Yajuan , Feehan Colette J. , Moreno Carly M. , Cassar Nicolas , Marchetti Adrian , Schofield Oscar M.
Published: May 2021

The West Antarctic Peninsula (henceforth “Peninsula”) is experiencing rapid warming and melting that is impacting the regional marine food web. The primary phytoplankton groups along the Peninsula are diatoms and cryptophytes. Relative to diatoms, there has been little focus on regional cryptophytes, and thus our understanding of their diversity and ecology is limited, especially at the species level. This gap is important, as diatoms and cryptophytes play distinct roles in the regional marine food web and biogeochemistry. Here, we use a phylogenetic placement approach with 18S rRNA gene amplicon sequence variants to assess surface ocean cryptophyte diversity and its drivers at a high taxonomic resolution along the Peninsula. Data were collected over 5 years (2012–2016) during the regional research cruises of the Palmer Long‐Term Ecological Research program. Our results indicate that there are two major cryptophyte taxa along the Peninsula, consisting of distinct Geminigera spp., which in aggregate always comprise nearly 100% of the cryptophyte community (indicating low taxa evenness). The primary taxon dominates the cryptophyte community across all samples/years, which span a broad range of oceanographic conditions. A shift in cryptophyte community composition between a lower (higher) primary (secondary) taxon percentage is associated with distinct oceanographic conditions, including lower (higher) temperature, salinity, nutrients, and cryptophyte relative abundance (phytoplankton biomass and diatom relative abundance). These results emphasize the need for a full characterization of the ecology of these two taxa, as it is predicted that cryptophytes will increase along the Peninsula given projections of continued regional environmental change.
Methanogenesis exceeds CH4 consumption in eutrophic lake sediments
Authors: D'Ambrosio Sofia L. , Harrison John A.
Published: May 2021

Lakes and reservoirs collectively contribute significant amounts of methane (CH4) to the global atmosphere. If CH4 production were not at least partially balanced by consumption (oxidation) in most of these systems, they could potentially emit an order of magnitude or more CH4. The impacts of environmental drivers such as trophic status, temperature, and latitude on CH4 production, CH4 oxidation, and the balance of the two processes influence current and future patterns of freshwater CH4 emissions. Using CH4 production and oxidation rates measured with a common methodology (incubations) from over 60 different lakes and reservoirs, we provide novel evidence for lower sediment CH4 oxidation efficiency at high sediment CH4 production rates. We also show a strong positive correlation between sediment CH4 production and lake trophic status. Our results suggest that less efficient CH4 consumption at high CH4 production rates could help explain greater surface emissions often observed in eutrophic lakes globally.
2D MoS2 Nanosheet‐Based Polyimide Nanocomposite with High Energy Density for High Temperature Capacitor Applications
Authors: Li Jiayuan , Zhang Jinxi , Zhang Shuangzhe , Ren Kailiang
Published: May 2021

With the development of electrical vehicles and power electronics, the demand for high‐temperature energy storage capacitors with high energy density has grown rapidly. In this investigation, 2D MoS2 nanosheets are coated with a thin layer of poly(methyl methacrylate) and then mixed with polyimide (PI) solution to fabricate nanocomposites. The dielectric constant of MoS2‐g‐PMMA/PI (MPP‐3%) reaches 4.2, which is 20% higher than that of a pristine PI film. The energy density of the MPP‐3% nanocomposite reaches 8.6 J cm−3, which is 40% higher than the highest energy density of a pristine PI film. In addition, the electric breakdown field of the MPP‐3% composite is 50% higher than that of the MoS2/PI nanocomposite without a surface coating. Furthermore, it is found that the highest energy density of MoS2‐g‐PMMA/PI reaches 3.92 J cm−3, which is 47.9% higher than that of the PI film at 150 °C. The charge–discharge efficiency of the nanocomposite film reaches 61.7% at 150 °C. This result is much higher than the previously reported research results for high‐temperature capacitor applications. The MoS2‐g‐PMMA/PI‐based nanocomposite shows great promise for use in high‐temperature capacitor applications.
Negative‐mode mass spectrometry in the analysis of invertebrate, fungal, and protist N‐glycans
Authors: Hykollari Alba , Paschinger Katharina , Wilson Iain B. H.
Published: May 2021

The approaches for analysis of N‐glycans have radically altered in the last 20 years or so. Due to increased sensitivity, mass spectrometry has become the predominant method in modern glycomics. Here, we summarize recent studies showing that the improved resolution and detection by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) has contributed greatly to the discovery of a large range of anionic and zwitterionic N‐glycan structures across the different kingdoms of life, whereby MALDI‐TOF MS in negative mode is less widely performed than in positive mode. However, its use enables the detection of key fragments indicative of certain sugar modifications such as sulfate, (methyl) phosphate, phosphoethanolamine, (methyl)aminoethylphosphonate, glucuronic, and sialic acid, thereby enabling certain isobaric glycan variations to be distinguished. As we also discuss in this review, complementary approaches such as negative‐mode electrospray ionization‐MS/MS, Fourier‐transform ion cyclotron resonance MS, and ion mobility MS yield, respectively, cross‐linkage fragments, high accuracy masses, and isomeric information, thus adding other components to complete the jigsaw puzzle when defining unusual glycan modifications from lower organisms.
Regional Brain and Spinal Cord Volume Loss in Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3
Authors: Faber Jennifer , Schaprian Tamara , Berkan Koyak , Reetz Kathrin , França Marcondes Cavalcante , de Rezende Thiago Junqueira Ribeiro , Hong Jiang , Liao Weihua , van de Warrenburg Bart , van Gaalen Judith , Durr Alexandra , Mochel Fanny , Giunti Paola , Garcia‐Moreno Hector , Schoels Ludger , Hengel Holger , Synofzik Matthis , Bender Benjamin , Oz Gulin , Joers James , de Vries Jereon J. , Kang Jun‐Suk , Timmann‐Braun Dagmar , Jacobi Heike , Infante Jon , Joules Richard , Romanzetti Sandro , Diedrichsen Jorn , Schmid Matthias , Wolz Robin , Klockgether Thomas
Published: May 2021

Background

Given that new therapeutic options for spinocerebellar ataxias are on the horizon, there is a need for markers that reflect disease‐related alterations, in particular, in the preataxic stage, in which clinical scales are lacking sensitivity.

Objective

The objective of this study was to quantify regional brain volumes and upper cervical spinal cord areas in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 in vivo across the entire time course of the disease.

Methods

We applied a brain segmentation approach that included a lobular subsegmentation of the cerebellum to magnetic resonance images of 210 ataxic and 48 preataxic spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 mutation carriers and 63 healthy controls. In addition, cervical cord cross‐sectional areas were determined at 2 levels.

Results

The metrics of cervical spinal cord segments C3 and C2, medulla oblongata, pons, and pallidum, and the cerebellar anterior lobe were reduced in preataxic mutation carriers compared with controls. Those of cervical spinal cord segments C2 and C3, medulla oblongata, pons, midbrain, cerebellar lobules crus II and X, cerebellar white matter, and pallidum were reduced in ataxic compared with nonataxic carriers. Of all metrics studied, pontine volume showed the steepest decline across the disease course. It covaried with ataxia severity, CAG repeat length, and age. The multivariate model derived from this analysis explained 46.33% of the variance of pontine volume.

Conclusion

Regional brain and spinal cord tissue loss in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 starts before ataxia onset. Pontine volume appears to be the most promising imaging biomarker candidate for interventional trials that aim at slowing the progression of spinocerebellar ataxia type 3. © 2021 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Genetic testing results of children suspected to have Stickler syndrome type collagenopathy after ocular examination
Authors: Khan Arif O. , AlAbdi Lama , Patel Nisha , Helaby Rana , Hashem Mais , Abdulwahab Firdous , AlBadr Fahad B. , Alkuraya Fowzan S.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Stickler syndrome is a collagenopathy that is typically COL2A1‐related (autosomal dominant) and less commonly related to other collagen gene mutations. Diagnosis is straightforward when a child has myopia or retinal detachment in the setting of classic diagnostic criteria such as hearing impairment, midfacial hypoplasia, and arthropathy. However, some children have primarily ocular disease with mild or no extraocular features. Such children can remain undiagnosed unless suspicion is raised by the ophthalmologist.

Methods

Retrospective consecutive case series (2014–2016) of children (<12 years old) suspected to have Stickler syndrome type collagenopathy by a single ophthalmologist and able to complete genetic testing for this possibility. Suspicion was based on vitreous abnormalities and myopia or lens opacities in the setting of prior retinal detachment, hearing impairment, or facial flatness.

Results

Average age of the 12 identified children was 8 years old (range 3–11; five boys). Average spherical equivalent for phakic eyes was −13 (range −3.5 to −30). Nine children had lens opacities or aphakia; two with aphakia also had lens subluxation or iridodonesis. Other recurrent clinical features included flat facies (12/12), hearing impairment (5/12), and prior retinal detachment (4/12). Pathogenic variants for collagenopathy were uncovered in 10/12 children: COL11A1 (heterozygous) in six, COL2A1 (heterozygous) in two, and COL9A1 (homozygous) in two. One child was homozygous for pathogenic variation in LRPAP1. One child had no detectable gene mutations.

Conclusions

Taken together, these clinical features (particularly vitreous abnormality, myopia, and lens opacity) had a high molecular yield for collagen gene mutation. Ophthalmologists who see such children should suspect Stickler syndrome, even in the absence of overt systemic disease. COL11A1‐related rather than COL2A1‐related autosomal dominant disease may be more common when undiagnosed children are identified based on ocular examination. Biallelic mutations in LRPAP1 can result in a phenotype that may resemble Stickler syndrome.
Animal experimental research assessing urogynecologic surgical mesh implants: Outcome measures describing the host response, a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Verhorstert Kim W. J. , Gudde Aksel N. , Kortz Brita S. , Limpens Jacqueline , Roovers Jan‐Paul W. R. , Hooijmans Carlijn R. , Guler Zeliha
Published: May 2021

Aim

Before the introduction of new biomaterials for prolapse surgery, animal studies on the host response are required. Unfortunately, large variation in study design hampers obtaining an overview of the safety and efficacy, and translation to clinical practice. Our aim is to systematically review the literature on all outcome measures describing the host response in animal studies assessing the biocompatibility of urogynecologic surgical mesh implants for prolapse surgery. Furthermore, by meta‐analysis, we aim to assess the effect of implantation and compare this to control animals receiving sham surgery or native tissue repair.

Methods

We performed a systematic search from inception to August 2020. Since this is an explorative study we included original, controlled, and noncontrolled animal studies describing any host response to the implant. Quantitative outcome measures reported ≥10 times in ≥2 articles were eligible for meta‐analysis.

Results

Fifty articles were included in the qualitative synthesis and 36 articles were eligible for meta‐analysis. In total, 154 outcome measures were defined and classified into (1) histomorphology, (2) biomechanics and, (3) macroscopic morphology. Animals with vaginal implants demonstrated significantly increased M1 and M2 macrophages, MMP‐2, neovascularization, TNF‐α, and stiffness, and lower vaginal contractility compared to control animals.

Conclusion

The host response significantly differs in animals after vaginal mesh implantation compared to control animals, both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory. However, we observed a paucity in the uniformity of reported outcomes. For future animal studies, we propose the development of a core outcome set, which ideally predicts the host response in women.
Hydration and glycogen affect T1 relaxation times of liver tissue
Authors: Mózes Ferenc E. , Valkovič Ladislav , Pavlides Michael , Robson Matthew D. , Tunnicliffe Elizabeth M.
Published: May 2021

T1 mapping is a useful tool for the assessment of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease but still suffers from a large unexplained variance in healthy subjects. This study aims to characterize the potential effects of liver glycogen concentration and body hydration status on liver shortened modified Look‐Locker inversion recovery (shMOLLI) T1 measurements. Eleven glycogen phantoms and 12 healthy volunteers (mean age: 31 years, three females) were scanned at 3 T using inversion recovery spin echo, multiple contrast spin echo (in phantoms), shMOLLI T1 mapping, multiple‐echo spoiled gradient recalled echo and 13C spectroscopy (in healthy volunteers). Phantom r1 and r2 relaxivities were determined from measured T1 and T2 values. Participants underwent a series of five metabolic experiments to vary their glycogen concentration and hydration levels: feeding, food fasting, exercising, underhydration, and rehydration. Descriptive statistics were calculated for shMOLLI T1, inferior vena cava to aorta cross‐sectional area ratio (IVC/Ao) as a marker of body hydration status, glycogen concentration, T2* and proton density fat fraction values. A linear mixed model for shMOLLI R1 was constructed to determine the effects of glycogen concentration and IVC/Ao ratio. The mean shMOLLI T1 after fasting was 737 ± 67 ms. The mean within‐subject change was 80 ± 45 ms. The linear mixed model revealed a glycogen r1 relaxivity in volunteers (0.18 M−1 s−1, p = 0.03) close to that determined in phantoms (0.28 M−1 s−1). A unit change in IVC/Ao ratio was associated with a drop of −0.113 s−1 in R1 (p < 0.001). This study demonstrated a dependence of liver shMOLLI T1 values on liver glycogen concentration and overall body hydration status. Interparticipant variation of hydration status should be minimized in future liver MRI studies. Additionally, caution is advised when interpreting liver T1 measurements in participants with excess liver glycogen.
Iranian nurses' perception of the public image of nursing and its association with their quality of working life
Authors: Roshangar Fariborz , Soheil Amin , Moghbeli Golshan , Wiseman Taneal , Feizollahzadeh Hossein , Gilani Neda
Published: May 2021

Aim

To investigate the association between the nurses’ perception of the public image (PI) of nursing and the quality of nursing work life (QNWL).

Design

A descriptive correlational study.

Methods

250 nurses of 12 hospitals affiliated with Tabriz University of Medical Sciences were sampled using a proportionate stratified sampling technique. Porter Nursing Image Scale and Brooks QNWL Scale were used for collecting data.

Results

There was a significant positive correlation between nurses’ perception of their public image and QNWL (r = .158, p = .012). Nurses’ perception of their PI along with other significant predictors including gender, age, position, work shifts, residency, financial status, level of family support, spouse's education and spouse's job significantly explained 15.2% of the predictability of QNWL (F(10,175) = 3.017, p = .001). Findings imply that enhancement of nurses' psychological status (nurses' perception of the public image of their profession) may improve their functional status (quality of nursing work life).
Burden and coping strategies of parents of children with attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder in Hong Kong: A qualitative study
Authors: Wong Wing Chi , Wong Irene Yuen Fung
Published: May 2021

Aim

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a prevalent mental disorder among children worldwide. The parents of children with ADHD experience great burden. However, burden and coping styles of these parents are seldom explored. The present study aimed to illustrate the burden and coping strategies of parents of children with Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study design was employed.

Methods

Samples were recruited from a general primary school in Hong Kong using convenience sampling. An information sheet was provided to participants, and written informed consent was obtained. Content analysis was conducted after the interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. COREQ reporting guidelines were used.

Results

Individual, face‐to‐face interviews were conducted, using a semi‐structured interview guide with 12 parents of children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Four themes (academic burden, children's social dependence, uncertainty regarding parenting strategies before diagnosis and emotional hardship) and three themes (acting according to situation, employing problemfocused coping methods and acceptance) emerged for burden and coping strategies, respectively. Coping strategies processes were also found. Medical diagnosis was reported to be a critical point for parents to shift their coping strategies. Timely interventions, such as early assessment and diagnosis, are recommended during or after medical diagnosis.
A survey of nurses' awareness of infection control measures in Baranya County, Hungary
Authors: Hammoud Sahar , Khatatbeh Haitham , Zand Afshin , Kocsis Béla
Published: May 2021

Aim

This study aimed to assess nurses' awareness of infection control (IC) measures in Baranya County, Hungary.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The study used the infection control standardized questionnaire to assess nurses' awareness in standard precautions (SP), healthcare‐associated infections (HAIs) and hand hygiene (HH). Data collection was done from two hospitals in February and March 2020. SPSS was used for statistical analysis.

Results

The study included 121 nurses. The mean scores were 16.55 ± 2.69 for IC overall awareness, 10.10 ± 1.58 for SP, 2.07 ± 0.71 for HAIs and 4.38 ± 1.47 for HH. Acceptable scores were reached in overall awareness and SP. The overall and HAIs' scores significantly differed across educational degrees. The difference in SP mean ranks was statistically significant across hospital types. The low HAIs and HH scores highlight the need to enhance IC trainings in Hungarian hospitals and improve nurses' knowledge on IC.
Trauma patterns and injury prevalence in early medieval Säben‐Sabiona, Italy
Authors: Tumler Daniela , Paladin Alice , Zink Albert R.
Published: May 2021

In the Early Middle Ages (fifth to 11th centuries AD), central Europe was marked by geo‐political instabilities and important socio‐cultural changes that led to the admixture of different cultures named barbari by the Romans, whose demographic impact is still not fully understood. These events also involved the populations settled in modern day South Tyrol, a region in the north‐eastern Italian Alps. In this context, the early medieval site of Säben‐Sabiona (Eisack‐Isarco valley, Province of Bozen‐Bolzano) had a relevant political role, and particularly due to its geographical location and religious importance, it was a prestigious burial site for individuals of different cultural and social backgrounds. This study aims to gain novel insights into the possible effects of these instabilities on daily life and general health of the people buried in Säben‐Sabiona, based on a thorough analysis of accident and violence‐related trauma. A total number of 226 individuals underwent a detailed osteological analysis to establish the number of individuals affected by trauma and to reconstruct the distribution, timing and type of injury. Trauma was assessed through macroscopic and metric analyses. Both crude, injuries per individual, and true prevalence rates, trauma per bone, were calculated. Signs of trauma were found on 37/226 individuals, whereby males exhibited more trauma than females and subadults. Most injuries were identified as antemortem fractures on the appendicular skeleton or perimortem sharp force trauma that was predominantly found on the skull. Most individuals featured less than five trauma; however, seven individuals account for more than half of the observed lesions. The trauma investigation suggests that most of the injured experienced skeletal injuries associated with labour‐related accidents and only a few, all of which were males, displayed signs of contemplated violence. Hence, it appears that the lives of the studied individuals were largely non‐violent, yet, sporadic situations of hostility and interpersonal conflict were also common.
Opportunities for Improvement in the Administration of Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for T4 Breast Cancer: A Comparison of the U.S. and Nigeria
Authors: Romanoff Anya , Olasehinde Olalekan , Goldman Debra A. , Alatise Olusegun I. , Constable Jeremy , Monu Ngozi , Knapp Gregory C. , Odujoko Oluwole , Onabanjo Emmanuella , Adisa Adewale O. , Arowolo Adeolu O. , Omisore Adeleye D. , Famurewa Olusola C. , Anderson Benjamin O. , Gemignani Mary L. , Kingham T. Peter
Published: May 2021

Background

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is an integral component of T4 breast cancer (BCa) treatment. We compared response to NAC for T4 BCa in the U.S. and Nigeria to direct future interventions.

Materials and Methods

Cross-sectional retrospective analysis included all patients with non-metastatic T4 BCa treated from 2010 to 2016 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York, New York) and Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (Ile Ife, Nigeria). Pathologic complete response (pCR) and survival were compared and factors contributing to disparities evaluated.

Results

Three hundred and eight patients met inclusion criteria: 157 (51%) in the U.S. and 151 (49%) in Nigeria. All U.S. patients received NAC and surgery compared with 93 (62%) Nigerian patients. Fifty-six out of ninety-three (60%) Nigerian patients completed their prescribed course of NAC. In Nigeria, older age and higher socioeconomic status were associated with treatment receipt.

Fewer patients in Nigeria had immunohistochemistry performed (100% U.S. vs. 18% Nigeria). Of those with available receptor subtype, 18% (28/157) of U.S. patients were triple negative versus 39% (9/23) of Nigerian patients. Overall pCR was seen in 27% (42/155) of U.S. patients and 5% (4/76) of Nigerian patients. Five-year survival was significantly shorter in Nigeria versus the U.S. (61% vs. 72%). However, among the subset of patients who received multimodality therapy, including NAC and surgery with curative intent, 5-year survival (67% vs. 72%) and 5-year recurrence-free survival (48% vs. 61%) did not significantly differ between countries.

Conclusion

Addressing health system, socioeconomic, and psychosocial barriers is necessary for administration of complete NAC to improve BCa outcomes in Nigeria.

Implications for Practice

This cross-sectional retrospective analysis of patients with T4 breast cancer in Nigeria and the U.S. found a significant difference in pathologic complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (5% Nigeria vs. 27% U.S.). Five-year survival was shorter in Nigeria, but in patients receiving multimodality treatment, including neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery with curative intent, 5-year overall and recurrence-free survival did not differ between countries. Capacity-building efforts in Nigeria should focus on access to pathology services to direct systemic therapy and promoting receipt of complete chemotherapy to improve outcomes.
Progress in nanocellulose and its polymer based composites: A review on processing, characterization, and applications
Authors: Varshney Shagun , Mishra Nidhi , Gupta M.K.
Published: May 2021

Contamination of the ecosystem from plastics is the most prominent concern of current times. Natural materials like plant‐based fibers from cellulose, hemp, sisal, etc., are preferred and being looked upon as better alternatives. Cellulose, being biocompatible and biodegradable, possesses appreciable properties. Its nanoscale form, called as nanocellulose, can be extracted from agricultural residue and lignocellulosic biomass through different chemo‐mechanical techniques. Chemical methods include alkaline treatment, chemical bleaching, acid hydrolysis, and TEMPO mediated oxidation, whereas high‐pressure homogenization, grinding, cryogenic crushing, and ultrasonication are the mechanical methods used for the isolation and extraction of nanocellulose. This review presents a comprehensive analysis of various processing and extraction methods used for nanocellulose. The review also brings an insight into nanocellulose‐polymer based composites including their mechanical, biological, thermal, and physical properties. A detailed discussion on nature, morphology, size, and other parameters through different characterization techniques is also presented in this review. Finally, the applications of nanocellulose in biotechnology, biomedical, mechanical, material science, chemical, and electronics engineering have also been discussed.
Registration of high‐yielding aroma hop (Humulus lupulus L.) cultivar ‘USDA Triumph’
Authors: Henning J.A. , Townsend M.S. , Gent D.H , Wiseman M.S. , Walsh D.B. , Groenendale D.P. , Randazzo A.M.
Published: May 2021

Brewers consistently look for new and unique hop (Humulus lupulus L.) cultivars that possess excellent flavor profiles and are cost effective to produce and utilize. Proprietary aroma cultivars have in some cases met this need but are costly to produce due to susceptibility to major plant diseases and primary adaptation for high desert climates such as that found in the Yakima Valley, Washington. In order to fill this gap, the USDA–ARS hop breeding program developed and released ‘USDA Triumph’ (Reg. no. CV‐30, PI 689549) to the public on 19 April 2019. The defining characteristics of this hop cultivar are high yields, broader adaptation across multiple environments, and excellence in brewing multiple beer styles. USDA Triumph arose from a cross made in 2000 between ‘USDA Nugget’ and ‘USDA 21110M’. USDA Triumph has exhibited high yields and disease tolerance across multiple states. It has been utilized in lager, pilsner, pale ales, and amber ales along with IPA brewing with excellent consumer reviews. The release and registration of this new cultivar provides brewers with an exciting new high‐yielding, widely adapted hop cultivar with excellent aroma and cost‐effective superior flavor.
Performance‐based balance tests, combined with the number of falls recalled in the past year, predicts the incidence of future falls in established unilateral transtibial prosthesis users
Authors: Sawers Andrew , Hafner Brian J.
Published: May 2021

Background

Falls are common and consequential events for lower limb prosthesis (LLP) users. Currently, there are no models based on prospective falls data that clinicians can use to predict the incidence of future falls in LLP users. Assessing who is at risk for falls, and thus most likely to need and benefit from intervention, remains a challenge.

Objective

To determine whether select performance‐based balance tests predict future falls in established, unilateral transtibial prosthesis users (TTPU).

Design

Multisite prospective observational study.

Setting

Research laboratory and prosthetics clinic.

Participants

Forty‐five established, unilateral TTPU.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

The number of falls reported over a prospective 6‐month period. Timed Up‐and‐Go (TUG) and Four‐Square Step Test (FSST) times, as well as Narrowing Beam Walking Test scores were recorded at baseline, along with the number of falls recalled over the past 12 months and additional potential fall‐risk factors.

Results

The final negative binomial regression model, which included TUG (P = .044) and FSST (P = .159) times, as well as the number of recalled falls (P = .009), was significantly better than a null model at predicting the number of falls over the next 6 months (X2[3] = 11.6, P = .009) and fit the observed fall count data (X2[41] = 36.12, P = .20). The final model provided a significant improvement in fit to the prospective fall count data over a model with fall recall alone X2(1) = 4.342, P < .05.

Conclusion

No combination of performance‐based balance tests alone predicted the incidence of future falls in our sample of established, unilateral TTPU. Rather, a combination of the number of falls recalled over the past 12 months, along with TUG and FSST times, but not NBWT scores, was required to predict the number of “all‐cause” falls over the next 6 months. The resulting predictive model may serve as a suitable method for clinicians to predict the incidence of falls in established, unilateral TTPU.
Synthesis and comparative study on polyetherimides from isomeric 4,4′‐isopropylidenediphenoxy bis(phthalic anhydride)s
Authors: Jiang Hongyu , Jiang Hanzhou , Chen Guofei , Fang Xingzhong
Published: May 2021

Two isomers of commercial 4,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropylidenediphenoxy) bis(phthalic anhydride) (4,4′‐BPADA), that is, 3,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropylidenediphenoxy) bis(phthalic anhydride) (3,4′‐BPADA) and 3,3′‐(4,4′‐isopropylidenediphenoxy) bis(phthalic anhydride) (3,3′‐BPADA), were synthesized through aromatic nucleophilic substitution from nitrophthalonitrile and bisphenol A. 3,4′‐BPADA was first synthesized from two intermediates, that is, 3‐(4‐[4‐hydroxyphenylisopropylidene] phenoxy) phthalonitrile (3‐BPADN) and 3,4′‐(4,4′‐isopropylidenediphenoxy) bis(phthalonitrile) (3,4′‐BPATN). The corresponding three series of polyetherimides (PEIs) were prepared with two representative aromatic diamines (4,4′‐oxydianiline and m‐phenylenediamine (m‐PDA)) via two‐step procedure and chemical imidization. Isomeric polyimides showed Tgs from 206 to 256°C in nitrogen and Td5%s from 488 to 511°C in argon, good mechanical properties (tensile moduli of 2.3–3.3 GPa, tensile strengths of 70–96 MPa, and elongations at break of 3.2%–5.1%), and good solubility. With the introduction of 3‐substituted phthalimide unit, PEIs displayed higher Tg values, lower strengths and elongations, better solubility and larger d‐spacings. The rheological properties of thermoplastic polyimide resins based on the BPADA isomers were investigated, which showed that polyetherimide PEI‐3b derived from 3,3′‐BPADA and m‐PDA had the lowest melt viscosity among the isomers, indicating that the melt processibility had been greatly improved.
The perceptions of burnout and related influencing factors in Chinese physicians and nurses working in a cancer hospital
Authors: Pang Ying , He Yi , Chen Zhishui , Han Xinkun , Leng Jiahua , Tang Lili
Published: May 2021

Background

This study aims to compare the burnout level and perceptions of burnout between oncology physicians and nurses, and to explore the relationship between these perceptions and the burnout level in physicians and nurses separately.

Methods

The whole crew of the Peking University Cancer Hospital was invited to participate in the survey. Maslach Burnout Scale Human Services Survey (MBI‐HSS) was used. Ten additional items on the perceptions of burnout were added to assess concerns on burnout, perceptions on the negative impact of burnout and perceptions on how to prevent burnout.

Results

In total, 862 (71%) oncology clinicians completed the questionnaire, including 285 physicians (33%) and 577 (67%) nurses. The proportion of the high risk of low personal accomplishment (PA) is higher in nurses than in physicians (39.3% V.S. 29.8%, p = 0.007). Most clinicians (72.2% of physicians, 82.4% of nurses) would like to participant in interventions to prevent burnout, but only a few of them (5.7% of physicians, 4.1% of nurses) had an opportunity to participate in. Both physicians (91.9%) and nurses (89.8%) rated increasing paid vacation as the most priority strategy to prevent burnout. The job‐hopping intention is correlated to a high level of burnout in both physicians and nurses.

Conclusions

The burnout level did not differ significantly between oncology nurses and physicians, except the low PA level. There was a big gap between their needs for burnout interventions and the resources they really had. The clinicians with a job‐hopping intention should be paid attention to their burnout.
Influence of permafrost thaw on an extreme geologic methane seep
Authors: Sullivan Taylor D. , Parsekian Andrew D. , Sharp Janelle , Hanke Philip J. , Thalasso Frederic , Shapley Mark , Engram Melanie , Walter Anthony Katey
Published: May 2021

The occurrence and magnitude of natural fossil methane (CH4) emissions in the Arctic are poorly known. Emission of geologic CH4, a potent greenhouse gas, originating beneath permafrost is of particular interest due to the potential for positive feedback to climate warming, whereby accelerated permafrost thaw releases permafrost‐trapped CH4 in a future warmer climate. The development of through‐going taliks in Arctic lakes overlying hydrocarbon reservoirs is one mechanism of releasing geologically sourced, subpermafrost CH4. Here we use novel gas flux measurements, geophysical observations of the subsurface, shallow sediment coring, high‐resolution bathymetry measurements, and lake water chemistry measurements to produce a synoptic survey of the gas vent system in Esieh Lake, a northwest Alaska lake with exceedingly large geologic CH4 seep emissions. We find that microbially produced fossil CH4 is being vented though a narrow thaw conduit below Esieh Lake through pockmarks on the lake bottom. This is one of the highest flux geologic CH4 seep fields known in the terrestrial environment and potentially the highest flux single methane seep. The poleward retreat of continuous permafrost may have implications for more subcap CH4 release with increased permafrost thaw.
The international political process around Digital Sequence Information under the Convention on Biological Diversity and the 2018–2020 intersessional period
Authors: Rohden Fabian , Scholz Amber Hartman
Published: May 2021

Societal Impact Statement

The international conservation of biological diversity is addressed under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and goals for the next decade will be discussed at the next Conference of the Parties. One issue under negotiation in the CBD is Digital Sequence Information (DSI), which has created tension between parties calling for preserving open access to DSI who also note its importance in addressing biodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals and those parties calling for fair and equitable benefit sharing from DSI. This article introduces scientists to the current debate and political process on DSI within the CBD.

Most biologists take open access to sequence data for granted. This open system, while a hallmark of innovation and collaboration for the scientific community, is being called into question as some parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) assert that this access undermines their sovereign rights over their genetic resources and corresponding benefit sharing. The governance of sequence data and potentially other types of biological data, known in international policy circles as “Digital Sequence Information” (DSI), a placeholder term invented by negotiators, could be dramatically altered and ultimately change the way scientific research and publishing on sequence data is conducted. Many sequence‐using scientists are unfamiliar with the international political processes around DSI even though it could lead to irreversible decisions that might have significant impacts on research. This paper bridges that gap by providing an overview of the ongoing political process with a focus on the most recent studies on DSI commissioned by the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) and what these studies forecast about the political debate. With this information in hand, the scientific community can hopefully better engage with the political process and proactively promote evidence‐based decisions or even solutions that can bridge the demand for benefit sharing with the scientific need for open access to DSI.
Utilizing mycorrhizal responses to guide selective breeding for agricultural sustainability
Authors: Cobb Adam B. , Duell Eric B. , Haase Kaitlin B. , Miller R. Michael , Wu Yanqi Q. , Wilson Gail W. T.
Published: May 2021

Societal Impact Statement

Agriculture touches all aspects of society and global environmental health. Dwindling phosphorous reserves are a looming crisis for civilization, and soil erosion typically far outpaces pedogenesis. Improving plant–mycorrhizal symbioses can enhance sustainable agriculture because mycorrhizas typically improve host‐plant nutrition and stabilize soils. Selective breeding of plants that gain greater benefits from mycorrhizas can provide considerable economic and environmental benefits. Our assessments demonstrate switchgrass genetic improvement increased or maintained production of two populations, and low‐input breeding increased mycorrhizal responsiveness, compared to parent lines. Selecting for increased mycorrhizal reliance may be an effective strategy for more sustainable and economical agricultural production.

Plant–mycorrhizal interactions are not typically assessed in crop breeding programs. Our experiment addresses this by determining host‐plant outcomes of newly developed synthetic (agronomic) populations compared with parent lines, following low‐input selective breeding. Assessing the potential of low‐input breeding to enhance crop mycorrhizal benefits is a critical step toward more sustainable agricultural production.

We compared four synthetic populations of Panicum virgatum, from a low‐input biofuel breeding program at Oklahoma State University, to corresponding parent lines. Plants were grown in a greenhouse in native prairie soils that were either steam‐pasteurized (nonmycorrhizal) or non‐steamed (mycorrhizal).

We assessed shoot and root biomass, shoot P concentration and P content, mycorrhizal growth response (MGR), and mycorrhizal phosphorous response (MPR). Importantly, we provide novel evidence that low‐input selective breeding increased mycorrhizal reliance of switchgrass synthetics compared to parent lines, with implications for global agricultural systems.

There are substantial opportunities for plant traits associated with increased MGR and MPR to be transferred to a wide array of crops. Our findings indicate low‐input selective breeding can improve MGR and MPR. We propose these traits serve as a useful proxy for host‐plant mycorrhizal reliance, facilitating successful hologenome breeding to reduce fertilizer requirements.
Long‐term trends in intergenerational proximity: Evidence from a grandchild design
Authors: Kalmijn Matthijs
Published: May 2021

Competing claims exist about how the geographic distance between parents and their adult children has changed historically. A classic modernisation hypothesis is that people currently live further away from their parents than in the past. Others have argued for stability and the remaining importance of local family ties, in spite of a long‐term decline in co‐residence of adult children and parents. The current paper uses a novel design that relies on reports by grandchildren to study long‐term changes in intergenerational proximity in the Netherlands. The analyses show that there has been a clear and continuous decline in intergenerational proximity between the 1940s and the 1990s. Mediation analyses show that educational expansion and urbanisation are the main reasons why proximity declined. No evidence is found for the role of secularisation and increasing international migration. Proximity to parents declined somewhat more strongly for women than for men.
The Role of Si Self‐interstitial Atoms in the Formation of Electrically Active Defects in Reverse‐Biased Silicon n+–p Diodes upon Irradiation with Alpha Particles
Authors: Aharodnikau Dzmitriy A. , Lastovskii Stanislau B. , Shpakovski Sergei V. , Markevich Vladimir P. , Halsall Matthew P. , Peaker Anthony R.
Published: May 2021

Results of a study of changes in electrical characteristics of n+–p diodes on boron‐doped epi‐silicon induced by irradiation with alpha particles under applied reverse bias voltages are presented. It is found that the irradiation results in a significantly lower introduction rate of carrier‐compensating radiation‐induced defects (RIDs) in the space charge region of the reverse‐biased structures compared with those in the neutral base region and in similar diodes irradiated without bias. The dominant hole and electron emission signals in the capacitance transient spectra of the irradiated diodes are characterized and identified with energy levels of some known RIDs in moderately doped p‐type Si:B. Changes in concentration of the defects are monitored after postirradiation minority carrier injection and thermal treatments. It is argued that the observed effect of the reduced concentration of RIDs in the space charge regions of the diodes is related mainly to some specific features of the silicon self‐interstitials (ISi): a very strong dependence of their thermal stability on the charge state and a highly enhanced mobility in p‐type Si under minority carrier injection conditions. The activation energy of electron emission from the doubly positively charged state of ISi is determined.
Artificial stone‐associated silicosis with concurrent Cryptococcus infection
Authors: Shen Hsiang‐Shi , Lai Yu‐Ting , Tsai Han‐Chen , Chang Shi‐Chuan
Published: May 2021

Acute silicoproteinosis is a disease that develops in weeks, and lasting for years, after massive exposure to silica dust in relatively closed spaces. It was rare, but the cases have recently increased worldwide due to the development of artificial stone industry. Compared with traditional silicosis, artificial stone‐associated silicosis is more rapidly progressive and lethal. Hence, a correct diagnosis and optimal treatment are crucial. Here, we present the clinical course of a 33‐year‐old artificial stonemason who suffered from acute silicoproteinosis with concurrent Cryptococcus infection resulting in profound respiratory failure. This patient was treated by bronchoscope‐assisted therapeutic segmental lung lavage and antifungal agent, under mechanical ventilator and ECMO support and recovered well. A brief review of acute silicoproteinosis and artificial stone‐associated silicosis is also presented and highlights the new form of industry exposure to silica.