bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progress in the chemistry of functional aramids properties
Authors: Mishra Nikita , Madhad Himanshu , Vasava Dilip
Published: July 2021

High‐performance polymers based on amide aromatic rings are known as wholly aromatic polyamides or aramids. The arrangement and admirable properties of aramids are built on the basis of amide linkage and rigid aromaticity. Aramids are attractive because of their extraordinary bond strengths and very high stiffness. Synthetic aromatic polymeric chains provide increased mechanical resistance and thermal softening compared to aliphatic aramids. In addition, aramids exhibit high thermal stability, low creep, and good optical activity with fluorescence. Hence, aramids are found in advanced arenas for engineering thermoplastics such as transport applications, electroactive materials, films, bullet‐proof body armor, smart materials, protective clothing, fibers, in nanocomposites as asbestos alternatives, cutting edge complexes in arming, high‐temperature lining material, in space engineering, and more. The objective of this review is to make the field of aramids functionality more accessible to the materials science community, that is, scientists, academicians, and engineers.
Getting resources to those who need them: the evidence we need to budget for underserved populations in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Long Lawrence C , Rosen Sydney , Nichols Brooke , Larson Bruce A , Ndlovu Nhlanhla , Meyer‐Rath Gesine
Published: July 2021

Introduction

In recent years, many countries have adopted evidence‐based budgeting (EBB) to encourage the best use of limited and decreasing HIV resources. The lack of data and evidence for hard to reach, marginalized and vulnerable populations could cause EBB to further disadvantage those who are already underserved and who carry a disproportionate HIV burden (USDB). We outline the critical data required to use EBB to support USDB people in the context of the generalized epidemics of sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA).

Discussion

To be considered in an EBB cycle, an intervention needs at a minimum to have an estimate of a) the average cost, typically per recipient of the intervention; b) the effectiveness of the intervention and c) the size of the intervention target population. The methods commonly used for general populations are not sufficient for generating valid estimates for USDB populations. USDB populations may require additional resources to learn about, access, and/or successfully participate in an intervention, increasing the cost per recipient. USDB populations may experience different health outcomes and/or other benefits than in general populations, influencing the effectiveness of the interventions. Finally, USDB population size estimation is critical for accurate programming but is difficult to obtain with almost no national estimates for countries in SSA. We explain these limitations and make recommendations for addressing them.

Conclusions

EBB is a strong tool to achieve efficient allocation of resources, but in SSA the evidence necessary for USDB populations may be lacking. Rather than excluding USDB populations from the budgeting process, more should be invested in understanding the needs of these populations.
Reductions in HIV incidence are likely to increase the importance of key population programmes for HIV control in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Garnett Geoff P
Published: July 2021

Introduction

An efficient HIV response requires that resources be focussed on effective interventions for those most at risk of acquiring and transmitting infection. As HIV epidemics evolve the distribution of HIV across key and other populations will change. Here, the epidemiological concepts underpinning these changes are described and the importance of appropriate allocation of effective interventions is discussed.

Discussion

In many sub‐Saharan African countries HIV epidemics have been categorized as “generalized,” and HIV testing, treatment and prevention interventions have focussed on the “general” population. As HIV epidemics are better controlled the relative importance of “key” populations will increase, dominating the ongoing burden of disease and providing the potential for repeated outbreaks of HIV if interventions are relaxed. The basic reproductive number (R0) describes the potential for an infectious disease to spread at the boundary of invasion or elimination, whereas the effective reproduction number (Rt) describes the current potential for spread. Heterogeneity in risk means that while Rtis temporarily below one and prevalence declining, the R0can remain above one, preventing eventual elimination. Patterns of HIV acquisition are often used to guide interventions but inadequately capture the transmission dynamics of the virus and the most efficient approach to controlling HIV. Risks for HIV acquisition are not identical to risks for HIV transmission and will change depending on the epidemiological context. In addition to the challenges in measuring HIV transmission dynamics, there is a tension between using epidemiology to drive the HIV response and the social and political realities constraining how programmes and providers can practically and appropriately focus on key populations and maintain political support. In addition to being well focussed, interventions need to be effective and cost‐effective, which requires a better understanding of packages of interventions rather than specific tools.

Conclusions

Continued control of HIV will increasingly rely on resources, programmes and interventions supporting key populations. Current epidemiological and programmatic approaches for key populations in sub‐Saharan Africa are insufficient with a need for an improved understanding of local epidemiology and the effectiveness of interventions.
A decade and beyond: learnings from HIV programming with underserved and marginalized key populations in Kenya
Authors: Musyoki Helgar , Bhattacharjee Parinita , Sabin Keith , Ngoksin Ed , Wheeler Tisha , Dallabetta Gina
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Key populations (KP) continue to account for high HIV incidence globally. Still, prioritization of KP in the national HIV prevention response remains insufficient, leading to their suboptimal access to HIV programmes. This commentary aims to share Kenya’s challenges and successes in achieving 2020 global HIV targets and scaling up the KP programme in the last decade.

Discussion

The KP programme in Kenya has scaled up in the last decade with the inclusion of female sex workers (FSW), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID), transgender people and people in prisons as priority populations in the national HIV response. KP coverage based on official size estimates for FSW is 73%, for MSM is 82%, for PWID through needle syringe programme (NSP) is 71%, and through opioid substitution therapy (OST) is 26% and for transgender people is 5%. The service outcomes for KP have been relatively strong in prevention with high condom use at last paid sex for FSW (92%) and use of sterile equipment among PWID (88%), though condom use at last sex with a non‐regular partner among MSM (78%) is still low. The KP programme has not met care continuum targets for all subpopulations with low case findings. The national KP programme led by the Ministry of Health has scaled up the programme through (a) strategic partnerships with KP‐led and competent organizations, researchers and donors; (b) development of policy guidance and programme standards; (c) continuous sensitization and advocacy to garner support; (d) development of national reporting systems, among others. However, the programme is still struggling with uncertain size estimates; lack of updated bio‐behavioural survey data; inadequate scale‐up of interventions among transgender people and people in prison settings; gaps in reaching adolescent and young KP, and effectively addressing structural barriers like violence and stigma.

Conclusions

To reach the ambitious global HIV targets, sufficient coverage of KP with quality HIV programmes is critical. Despite scaling up the KP programme, Kenya has not yet achieved the 2020 global HIV targets and needs more efforts to scale‐up quality programmes for KP who are underserved in the HIV response.
Estimating the epidemic consequences of HIV prevention gaps among key populations
Authors: Mishra Sharmistha , Silhol Romain , Knight Jesse , Phaswana‐Mafuya Refilwe , Diouf Daouda , Wang Linwei , Schwartz Sheree , Boily Marie‐Claude , Baral Stefan
Published: July 2021

Introduction

HIV epidemic appraisals are used to characterize heterogeneity and inequities in the context of the HIV pandemic and the response. However, classic measures used in appraisals have been shown to underestimate disproportionate risks of onward transmission, particularly among key populations. In response, a growing number of modelling studies have quantified the consequences of unmet prevention and treatment needs (prevention gaps) among key populations as a transmission population attributable fraction over time (tPAFt). To aid its interpretation and use by programme implementers and policy makers, we outline and discuss a conceptual framework for understanding and estimating the tPAFt via transmission modelling as a measure of onward transmission risk from HIV prevention gaps; and discuss properties of the tPAFt.

Discussion

The distribution of onward transmission risks may be defined by who is at disproportionate risk of onward transmission, and under which conditions. The latter reflects prevention gaps, including secondary prevention via treatment: the epidemic consequences of which may be quantified by the tPAFt. Steps to estimating the tPAFt include parameterizing the acquisition and onward transmission risks experienced by the subgroup of interest, defining the most relevant counterfactual scenario, and articulating the time‐horizon of analyses and population among whom to estimate the relative difference in cumulative transmissions; such steps could reflect programme‐relevant questions about onward transmission risks. Key properties of the tPAFt include larger onward transmission risks over longer time‐horizons; seemingly mutually exclusive tPAFt measures summing to greater than 100%; an opportunity to quantify the magnitude of disproportionate onward transmission risks with a per‐capita tPAFt; and that estimates are conditional on what has been achieved so far in reducing prevention gaps and maintaining those conditions moving forward as the status quo.

Conclusions

The next generation of HIV epidemic appraisals has the potential to support a more specific HIV response by characterizing heterogeneity in disproportionate risks of onward transmission which are defined and conditioned on the past, current and future prevention gaps across subsets of the population.
The Enneagram as a Tool for Fostering Empathic Connection in Counseling
Authors: Bayne Hannah B. , Fields Karin G. , Nesbit Laurel
Published: July 2021

In this article, we propose using the enneagram to enhance counselor empathy by considering how personality affects the perspectives and motivations of both the counselor and the client. We discuss the nine personality styles, present a process of counselor self‐ and other‐awareness, and provide implications for practice.
Quantifying shoulder activity after rotator cuff repair: Technique and preliminary results
Authors: Ruder Matthew C. , Zauel Roger , Diefenbach Brian J. , Bey Michael J.
Published: July 2021

Repair tissue healing after rotator cuff repair remains a significant clinical problem, and excessive shoulder activity after surgical repair is believed to contribute to re‐tears. In contrast, small animal studies have demonstrated that complete removal of activity impairs tendon healing and have advocated for an “appropriate” level of activity, but in humans the appropriate amount of shoulder activity to enhance healing is not known. As an initial step toward understanding the relationship between postoperative shoulder activity and repair tissue healing, the objectives of this study were to assess the precision, accuracy, and feasibility of a wrist‐worn triaxial accelerometer for measuring shoulder activity. Following assessments of precision (±0.002 g) and accuracy (±0.006 g), feasibility was assessed by measuring 1 week of shoulder activity in 14 rotator cuff repair patients and 8 control subjects. Shoulder activity was reported in terms of volume (mean acceleration, activity count, mean activity index, active time) and intensity (intensity gradient). Patients had significantly less volume (p ≤ .03) and intensity (p = .01) than controls. Time post‐surgery was significantly associated with the volume (p ≤ .05 for mean acceleration, activity count, and mean activity index) and intensity (p = .03) of shoulder activity, but not active time (p = .08). These findings indicate this approach has the accuracy and precision necessary to continuously monitor shoulder activity with a wrist‐worn sensor. The preliminary data demonstrate the ability to discriminate between healthy control subjects and patients recovering from rotator cuff repair and provide support for using a wearable sensor to monitor changes over time in shoulder activity.
Patient‐specific 3D‐printed shelf implant for the treatment of hip dysplasia: Anatomical and biomechanical outcomes in a canine model
Authors: Willemsen Koen , Tryfonidou Marianna , Sakkers Ralph , Castelein René M. , Zadpoor Amir A. , Seevinck Peter , Weinans Harrie , Meij Björn , van der Wal Bart C. H.
Published: July 2021

A solution for challenging hip dysplasia surgery could be a patient‐specific 3D‐printed shelf implant that is positioned extra‐articular and restores the dysplastic acetabular rim to normal anatomical dimensions. The anatomical correction and biomechanical stability of this concept were tested in a canine model that, like humans, also suffers from hip dysplasia. Using 3D reconstructed computed tomography images the 3D shelf implant was designed to restore the radiological dysplastic hip parameters to healthy parameters. It was tested ex vivo on three dog cadavers (six hips) with hip dysplasia. Each hip was subjected to a biomechanical subluxation test, first without and then with the 3D shelf implant in place. Subsequently, an implant failure test was performed to test the primary implant fixation. At baseline, the dysplastic hips had an average Norberg angle of 88 ± 3° and acetabular coverage of 47 ± 2% and subluxated at an average of 83 ± 2° of femoral adduction. After adding the patient‐specific shelf implants the dysplastic hips had an average Norberg angle of 122 ± 2° and acetabular coverage of 67 ± 3% and subluxated at an average of 117 ± 2° of femoral adduction. Implant failure after primary implant fixation occurred at an average of 1330 ± 320 Newton. This showed that the patient‐specific shelf implants significantly improved the coverage and stability of dysplastic hips in a canine model with naturally occurring hip dysplasia. The 3D shelf is a promising concept for treating residual hip dysplasia with a straightforward technology‐driven approach; however, the clinical safety needs to be further investigated in an experimental proof‐of‐concept animal study.
Raman spectroscopic‐based chemometric modeling in assessment of red pepper ripening phases and carotenoids accumulation
Authors: Kolašinac Stefan , Pećinar Ilinka , Danojević Dario , Aćić Svetlana , Stevanović Zora Dajić
Published: July 2021

The main goal of the present study is validation of different chemometric models in Raman spectroscopic monitoring of different maturity phases of the red pepper fruit. Successive ripening stages commonly corresponding with different fruit coloration (green, green‐brown, brown‐red, and deep red) were assessed. The fruit maturation process in red pepper is related to alteration in composition and content of different primary and secondary metabolites, including the most represented carotenoid, the capsanthin. Raman microspectroscopy with wavelength of 532 nm was used to obtain the spectra of the pericarp of different maturation phases. Several multivariate classification methods, such as Principal Component Analysis–Linear Discriminant Analysis (PCA–LDA), Partial Least Squares‐Discriminant Analysis (PLS‐DA), and Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy (SIMCA) were tested to determine the model which best fits the target ripening phases related to composition and the content of the most represented carotenoids. Concerning different fruit ripening phases, several characteristic bands were obtained, including those at 1514–1517, 1151, and 1003 cm−1, all assigned to carotenoids with nine conjugated double bonds in the main polyene chain (e.g., lutein, beta carotene, beta cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, capsorubin, and capsanthin). All tested classification chemometric models had a high rate of prediction accuracy (between 95% and 100%). The SIMCA showed the best result, probably because of using a different algorithm compared with the other tested models.
Does harvesting Urochloa and Megathyrsus forages at short intervals confer an advantage on cumulative dry matter yields and quality?
Authors: Mwendia Solomon W , Ohmstedt Uwe , Nyakundi Fridah , Notenbaert An , Peters Michael
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND

Due to increasing demand for livestock products in sub‐Saharan Africa, increasing livestock productivity is a priority. The core constraint is limited availability of feed of good quality. We assessed optimal harvesting time of three improved grasses, two Urochloa lines (Basilisk a selection from wild population, Cayman – a hybrid, a product of breeding) plus Mombasa, a Megathyrsus selection. All are released in Latin America and Kenya or in the registration in other regional countries. We assessed dry matter (DM) yields and quality at 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks of age in two sites.

RESULTS

DM yields (in t ha−1) were of the order Cayman (9.6–14.3) > Mombasa (8.0–11.3) > Basilisk (5.5–10.2) in one site, and Cayman (6.4–9.7) > Basilisk (4.9–7.6) > Mombasa (3.3–5.9) at site two. The harvesting regimes produced DM largely similar for weeks 4 and 6, 6 and 8, 8 and 12. Across the sites quality was of the order Cayman > Mombasa > Basilisk for neutral detergent fiber (NDF), metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP). With increasing harvesting interval, MJ ME ha−1 and kg CP ha−1 were inconsistent across both sites, but significant differences returned for MJ ME ha−1 unlike kg CP ha−1.

CONCLUSIONS

Harvesting at either 8 or 12 weeks is not recommendable as quality drops without an increase in DM yield that can compensate despite doubling and tripling time respectively, compared to 4 weeks. We recommend harvesting at 4 through 6 weeks for any of the three grasses based on yield against time, and demand at the intensified cut‐and‐carry smallholder systems. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Intersection of social vulnerability and residential diversity: Postoperative outcomes following resection of lung and colon cancer
Authors: Diaz Adrian , Dalmacy Djhenne , Hyer J. Madison , Tsilimigras Diamantis , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: July 2021

Introduction

While the impact of demographic factors on postoperative outcomes has been examined, little is known about the intersection between social vulnerability and residential diversity on postoperative outcomes following cancer surgery.

Methods

Individuals who underwent a lung or colon resection for cancer were identified in the 2016–2017 Medicare database. Data were merged with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention social vulnerability index and a residential diversity index was calculated. Logistic regression models were utilized to estimate the probability of postoperative outcomes.

Results

Among 55 742 Medicare beneficiaries who underwent lung (39.4%) or colon (60.6%) resection, most were male (46.6%), White (90.2%) and had a mean age of 75.3 years. After adjustment for competing risk factors, both social vulnerability and residential diversity were associated with mortality and other postoperative outcomes. In assessing the intersection of social vulnerability and residential diversity, synergistic effects were noted as patients from counties with low social vulnerability and high residential diversity had the lowest probability of 30‐day mortality (3.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.0–3.5) while patients from counties with high social vulnerability and low diversity had a higher probability of 30‐day postoperative death (5.2%, 95% CI: 4.6–5.8; odds ratio: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01–1.03).

Conclusion

Social vulnerability and residential diversity were independently associated with postoperative outcomes. The intersection of these two social health determinants demonstrated a synergistic effect on the risk of adverse outcomes following lung and colon cancer surgery.
Tonsillectomy Outcomes for Children With Severe Obesity
Authors: Hines Susan , Pickett Kaci , Tholen Kaitlyn , Handley Elyse , Friedman Norman R.
Published: July 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the success of an adenotonsillectomy (T&A) in treating children with severe obesity utilizing a more accurate obesity scale.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of children with obesity between 5 and 10 years of age who underwent a T&A at Children's Hospital of Colorado (CHCO) was used. This study also utilized publicly available data from the Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial (CHAT) study. The cohort was divided into three obesity classes using age‐ and sex‐specific body mass index (BMI) expressed as a percentage of the 95th percentile (%BMIp95) and compared for operative success differences.

Results

There were 132 patients included in our primary analysis, with obesity distribution as follows: Class 1 to 53 patients (40%), Class 2 to 45 patients (34%), and Class 3 to 34 patients (26%). Overall, 52 patients (35.9%) experienced a cure (obstructive apnea/hypopnea index [OAHI] <1), with 27 (52%) patients in Class 1 obesity, 18 (35%) in Class 2, and 7 (13%) in Class 3. Class 3 had a significantly lower obstructive sleep apnea cure rate compared with Class 1 patients (P = .013), but after adjusting for covariates, this difference was no longer present (P > .05). There was no significant difference in the preoperative to postoperative percent change in mean oxygen saturation (P = .82 CHCO, P = .43 CHAT), oxygen nadir (P = .20 CHCO, P = .49 CHAT), or OAHI (P = .12 CHCO, P = .26 CHAT) between the obesity classes.

Conclusion

After adjusting for covariates, children with Class 3 obesity are as likely to be cured with a T&A as those with Class 1 obesity. A T&A should be considered a first line treatment for all children with obesity.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:461–469, 2022
Coping with darkness: The adaptive response of marine picocyanobacteria to repeated light energy deprivation
Authors: Coe Allison , Biller Steven J. , Thomas Elaina , Boulias Konstantinos , Bliem Christina , Arellano Aldo , Dooley Keven , Rasmussen Anna N. , LeGault Kristen , O'Keefe Tyler J. , Stover Sarah , Greer Eric L. , Chisholm Sallie W.
Published: July 2021

The picocyanobacteriaProchlorococcusandSynechococcusare found throughout the ocean's euphotic zone, where the daily light:dark cycle drives their physiology. Periodic deep mixing events can, however, move cells below this region, depriving them of light for extended periods of time. Here, we demonstrate that members of these genera can adapt to tolerate repeated periods of light energy deprivation. Strains kept in the dark for 3 d and then returned to the light initially required 18–26 d to resume growth, but after multiple rounds of dark exposure they began to regrow after only 1–2 d. This dark‐tolerant phenotype was stable and heritable; some cultures retained the trait for over 132 generations even when grown in a standard 13:11 light:dark cycle. We found no genetic differences between the dark‐tolerant and parental strains ofProchlorococcusNATL2A, indicating that an epigenetic change is likely responsible for the adaptation. To begin to explore this possibility, we asked whether DNA methylation—one potential mechanism mediating epigenetic inheritance in bacteria—occurs inProchlorococcus. LC–MS/MS analysis showed that while DNA methylations, including 6 mA and 5 mC, are found in some otherProchlorococcusstrains, there were no methylations detected in either the parental or dark‐tolerant NATL2A strains. These findings suggest thatProchlorococcusutilizes a yet‐to‐be‐determined epigenetic mechanism to adapt to the stress of extended light energy deprivation, and highlights phenotypic heterogeneity as an additional dimension ofProchlorococcusdiversity.
Potential competition between marine heterotrophic prokaryotes and autotrophic picoplankton for nitrogen substrates
Authors: Deng Wenchao , Wang Shanlin , Wan Xianhui , Zheng Zhenzhen , Jiao Nianzhi , Kao Shuh‐Ji , Moore Jefferson Keith , Zhang Yao
Published: July 2021

Heterotrophic prokaryotes have the capacity to uptake inorganic nitrogen (N) substrates. However, it remains unclear what the potential competition is between heterotrophic prokaryotes and autotrophic plankton for N in the ocean, which would shunt the flow of N supporting primary production. To date, it has been difficult to distinguish heterotrophic prokaryotic N uptake from that of autotrophic picoplankton, especially in oligotrophic oceans dominated by cyanobacteria. We carried out field‐based DNA stable isotope probing incubation experiments in the South China Sea combining measurements of uptake rates of ammonium, nitrate, nitrite, and urea to estimate the taxon‐specific potential N assimilation. The results indicate that phylogenetically diverse heterotrophic prokaryotes significantly incorporated multiple N sources, contributing approximately 17–41% and 19–55% of total N uptake potential in the euphotic zone of the South China Sea continental shelf and open ocean, respectively, potentially competing with cyanobacteria (mainly Prochlorococcus). Notably, heterotrophic prokaryotes made a higher contribution to bulk uptake of nitrate in the incubation systems of the open ocean relative to regenerated N, and thus there was a tendency to overestimate the f‐ratio. Extrapolating our results to the oligotrophic, low‐latitude ocean via a global model suggests the f‐ratio would decrease ~ 18%. This suggests a more complicated biogeochemical role of heterotrophic prokaryotes in the biological carbon pump than hitherto assumed, with important implications for N and carbon cycling in the vast open ocean.
Effects of the severity of collective threats on people's donation intention
Authors: Zheng Chundong , Liu Ning , Luo Cheng , Wang Lin
Published: July 2021

Understanding people's behavior when they are under threat is important to both researchers and practitioners. This study investigates the impact of the severity of collective threats on people's donation intention. Through a series of studies, our findings show that the severity of collective threats positively affects people's donation intention. Specifically, when a collective threat becomes more severe, people under threat tend to pay more attention to and feel empathy for others experiencing the same threat, thus increasing their donation intention. Furthermore, the positive effect of collective threat severity on people's donation intention becomes weaker when the degree of threat relief is high (vs. low). It is also found that when donation recipients are experiencing a different threat from that of donors, the positive effect of collective threat severity disappears. This study enriches our understanding of people's behavior under threat and extends the literature on social identity theory. Additionally, our results provide important managerial implications for charity organizations regarding how to increase people's donation intention by selecting appropriate locations and timings for donation activities.
SCR7, an inhibitor of NHEJ can sensitize tumor cells to ionization radiation
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Vidya , Sharma Shivangi , Ray Ujjayinee , Manjunath Meghana , Lakshmanan Divya , Vartak Supriya V. , Gopinatha Vindya K. , Srivastava Mrinal , Kempegowda Mantelingu , Choudhary Bibha , Raghavan Sathees C.
Published: July 2021

Nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), one of the major DNA double‐strand break repair pathways, plays a significant role in cancer cell proliferation and resistance to radio and chemotherapeutic agents. Previously, we had described a small molecule inhibitor, SCR7, which inhibited NHEJ in a DNA Ligase IV dependent manner. Here, we report that SCR7 potentiates the effect of γ‐radiation (IR) that induces DNA breaks as intermediates to eradicate cancer cells. Dose fractionation studies revealed that coadministration of SCR7 and IR (0.5 Gy) in mice Dalton's lymphoma (DLA) model led to a significant reduction in mice tumor cell proliferation, which was equivalent to that observed for 2 Gy dose when both solid and liquid tumor models were used. Besides, co‐treatment with SCR7 and 1 Gy of IR further improved the efficacy. Notably, there was no significant change in blood parameters, kidney and liver functions upon combinatorial treatment of SCR7 and IR. Further, the co‐treatment of SCR7 and IR resulted in a significant increase in unrepaired DSBs within cancer cells compared to either of the agent alone. Anatomy, histology, and other studies in tumor models confirmed the cumulative effects of both agents in activating apoptotic pathways to induce cytotoxicity by modulating DNA damage response and repair pathways. Thus, we report that SCR7 has the potential to reduce the side effects of radiotherapy by lowering its effective dose ex vivo and in mice tumor models, with implications in cancer therapy.
Existence of solutions for a quasilinear elliptic system with local nonlinearity on ℝN
Authors: Zhang Xingyong , Liu Cuiling
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we investigate the existence of solutions for a class of quasilinear elliptic system. By developing the Moser iteration technique, we obtain that system has a nontrivial solution (uλ, vλ) with ‖(uλ, vλ)‖∞  ≤  2 for every λ large enough when the nonlinear term F satisfies some growth conditions only in a circle with center 0 and radius 4, and the families of solutions {(uλ, vλ)} satisfy that ‖(uλ, vλ) ‖ → 0 as λ  →  ∞. Moreover, because the interaction of u and v in elliptic system causes that the estimate of ‖u‖∞ cannot vary with ‖u‖, the conclusion for the elliptic system is weaker than the corresponding result for the quasilinear elliptic equation, which is given in the end as a comparison.
Evolutes and focal surfaces of (1,  k)‐type curves with respect to Bishop frame in Euclidean 3‐space
Authors: Li Pengcheng , Pei Donghe
Published: July 2021

Evolutes and focal surfaces are classical objects of the singularity theory. In this paper, we will introduce (1,  k)‐type curves and the Bishop type frame. Then, by using the Bishop frame, we define the evolutes and focal surfaces of (1,  k)‐type curves and discuss some singular properties of them. Moreover, the singularities of focal surfaces of (1,  k)‐type curves are classified according to the unfolding theory of the families of functions.
Accelerated calibrationless parallel transmit mapping using joint transmit and receive low‐rank tensor completion
Authors: Hess Aaron T. , Dragonu Iulius , Chiew Mark
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To evaluate an algorithm for calibrationless parallel imaging to reconstruct undersampled parallel transmit field maps for the body and brain.

Methods

Using a combination of synthetic data and in vivo measurements from brain and body, 3 different approaches to a joint transmit and receive low‐rank tensor completion algorithm are evaluated. These methods included: 1) virtual coils using the product of receive and transmit sensitivities, 2) joint‐receiver coils that enforces a low rank structure across receive coils of all transmit modes, and 3) transmit low rank that uses a low rank structure for both receive and transmit modes simultaneously. The performance of each is investigated for different noise levels and different acceleration rates on an 8‐channel parallel transmit 7 Tesla system.

Results

The virtual coils method broke down with increasing noise levels or acceleration rates greater than 2, producing normalized RMS error greater than 0.1. The joint receiver coils method worked well up to acceleration factors of 4, beyond which the normalized RMS error exceeded 0.1. Transmit low rank enabled an eightfold acceleration, with most normalized RMS errors remaining below 0.1.

Conclusion

This work demonstrates that undersampling factors of up to eightfold are feasible for transmit array mapping and can be reconstructed using calibrationless parallel imaging methods.
Accelerated diffusion and relaxation‐diffusion MRI using time‐division multiplexing EPI
Authors: Ji Yang , Gagoski Borjan , Hoge W. Scott , Rathi Yogesh , Ning Lipeng
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To develop a time‐division multiplexing echo‐planar imaging (TDM‐EPI) sequence for approximately two‐ to threefold acceleration when acquiring joint relaxation‐diffusion MRI data with multiple TEs.

Methods

The proposed TDM‐EPI sequence interleaves excitation and data collection for up to 3 separate slices at different TEs and uses echo‐shifting gradients to disentangle the overlapping echo signals during the readout period. By properly arranging the sequence event blocks for each slice and adjusting the echo‐shifting gradients, diffusion‐weighted images from separate slices can be acquired. Therefore, we present 2 variants of the sequence. A single‐TE TDM‐EPI is presented to demonstrate the concept. Next, a multi‐TE TDM‐EPI is presented to highlight the advantages of the TDM approach for relaxation‐diffusion imaging. These sequences were evaluated on a 3 Tesla scanner with a water phantom and in vivo human brain data.

Results

The single‐TE TDM‐EPI sequence can simultaneously acquire 2 slices with a maximum b value of 3000 s/mm2 and 2.5 mm isotropic resolution using interleaved readout windows with TE ≈ 78 ms. With the same b value and resolution, the multi‐TE TDM‐EPI sequence can simultaneously acquire 2 or 3 separate slices using interleaved readout sections with shortest TE ≈ 70 ms and ΔTE ≈ 30 ms. Phantom and in vivo experiments have shown that the proposed TDM‐EPI sequences can provide similar image quality and diffusion measures as conventional EPI readouts with multiple echoes but can reduce the overall relaxation‐diffusion protocol scan time by approximately two‐ to threefold.

Conclusion

TDM‐EPI is a novel approach to acquire diffusion imaging data at multiple TEs. This enables a significant reduction in acquisition time for relaxation‐diffusion MRI experiments but without compromising image quality and diffusion measurements, thus removing a significant barrier to the adoption of relaxation‐diffusion MRI in clinical research studies of neurological and mental disorders.
Mapping magnetization transfer saturation (MTsat) in human brain at 7T: Protocol optimization under specific absorption rate constraints
Authors: Olsson Hampus , Andersen Mads , Wirestam Ronnie , Helms Gunther
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To optimize a whole‐brain magnetization transfer saturation (MTsat) protocol at 7T, focusing on maximizing obtainable MTsat under the constraints of specific absorption rate (SAR) and transmit field inhomogeneity, while avoiding bias and keeping scan time short.

Theory and Methods

MTsat is a semi‐quantitative metric, obtained by spoiled gradient‐echo MRI in the imaging steady‐state. Optimization was based on an established 7T dual flip angle protocol, and focused on MT pulse, readout flip angle, repetition time (TR), offset frequency (Δ), and correction of residual effects from transmit field inhomogeneities by separate flip angle mapping.

Results

A 100% SAR level was reached at a 180° MT pulse flip angle, using a compact sinc main lobe (4 ms duration) and minimum TR = 26.5 ms. The use of Δ = +2.0 kHz caused no discernible direct saturation, while Δ = −2.0 kHz resulted in 45% higher MTsat in white matter (WM) compared to Δ = +2.0 kHz. A 4° readout flip angle eliminated bias while yielding a good signal‐to‐noise ratio. Increased TR yielded only a little increase in MTsat, and TR = 26.5 ms (scan time 04:58 min) was thus selected. Post hoc transmit field correction clearly improved homogeneity, especially in WM.

Conclusions

The range of MTsat is limited at 7T, and this can partly be overcome by the exploitation of the asymmetry of the macromolecular lineshape through the sign of Δ. To reduce scan time, a compact MT pulse with a sufficiently narrow frequency response should be used. TR and readout flip angle should be kept short/small. Transmit field correction through separate flip angle mapping is required.
Assessing the effect of nursing stress factors on turnover intention among newly recruited nurses in hospitals in China
Authors: Zhou Lulin , Kachie Tetgoum Arielle Doris , Quansah Prince Ewudzie , Owusu‐Marfo Joseph
Published: July 2021

Aim

This study sought to investigate some possible job stress factors that could influence newly recruited nurses’ behaviour to either continue or discontinue their job with their organization.

Design

A cross‐sectional study design was adopted for this study.

Method

Using 654 responses from novice nurses working in 20 county Chinese hospitals, we estimated the effects of six job stressors from the perceived stress scale on the turnover intention with a structural equation model in AMOS version 21 software.

Results

The results showed that four stressors, stress from taking care of patients (β = 0.111, p < .01), stress from roles and workload (β = 0.129, p < .001), stress from co‐workers and daily life (β = 0.323, p < .001) and stress from lack of professional knowledge and skills (β = 0.137, p < .001), from the perceived stress scale had a significant impact on turnover intention among nurses.
Parents' experiences on the combined use of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion and real‐time continuous glucose monitoring to manage Type 1 diabetes in their children: A systematic review and meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Luo Xiuwen , Pan Jie , Lu Haiyun , Li Xiaoxiao
Published: July 2021

Aim

To explore the experiences and perspectives of the combined use of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) on parents of children with TIDM on their daily life.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies.

Methods

A systematic literature search of English studies published in seven databases between 2006–2021: CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library and Scopus. All included studies underwent the process of thematic interpretive integration by the author team.

Results

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Six derived themes were generated which contained interacting with devices, interacting with glycaemic information, improving quality of life for parents of children with T1DM, burden of living with CSII therapy and CGM, impact on the parent–child relationship, requirement and expectation to advanced diabetes technology. Advanced diabetes technologies affect physical, emotional and relationship between the daily life of parents and their children with T1DM.
The protective effect of self‐esteem on suicidal ideation among nursing home residents with limited social support in China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Rui , Zhang Dan , Su Yonggang , Zang Yuli
Published: July 2021

Aim

This cross‐sectional study aimed to assess the impact of limited social support and loneliness on suicidal ideation, under the influence of self‐esteem, an important inner resource for quality living.

Design

An observational cross‐sectional study conducted from September 2018–April 2019.

Methods

The participants comprised 538 nursing home residents selected by a stratified sampling method from all seven administrative districts in a capital city of eastern China. All the participants completed the survey that constituted the measurement of suicidal ideation, self‐esteem, social support and loneliness. Path analysis was performed using the structural equation modelling method.

Results

A moderating effect, with satisfactory model fit indices and significant path coefficients, was detected between self‐esteem and suicidal ideation through limited social support and loneliness, revealing the multiple protective mechanisms of this psychological characteristic on the change of suicidal ideation.
Verifying intervention fidelity procedures for a palliative home care intervention with pilot study results
Authors: Piamjariyakul Ubolrat , Smothers Angel , Young Stephanie , Morrissey Elizabeth , Petitte Trisha , Wen Sijin , Zulfikar Rafia , Sangani Rahul , Shafique Saima , Smith Carol E. , Bosak Kelly
Published: July 2021

Fidelity (consistency of intervention implementation) is essential to rigorous research. Intervention fidelity maintains study internal validity, intervention reproducibility, and transparency in the research conduct. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe intervention fidelity strategies/procedures developed for a pilot study testing a new palliative care nursing intervention (FamPALcare) for families managing advanced lung disease. The procedures described herein are based on the fidelity best practices recommendations from the NIH Consortium. An evidence‐based checklist guided observational ratings of the fidelity procedures used and the intervention content implemented in each intervention session. Descriptive data on how participants understood (received), enacted, or used the intervention information were summarized. The fidelity checklist observational scores found ≥93% of the planned intervention content was implemented, and the fidelity strategies were adhered to consistently during each intervention session. The small variation (7%) in implementation was expected and related to participants' varying experiences, input, and/or questions. The helpfulness scale items include participants' ability to use home care resources, to anticipate and manage end‐of‐life symptoms, and to use Advance Directive forms. The high ratings (M = 4.4) on the 1–5 (very helpful) Likert Helpfulness Scale verified participants utilized the information from the intervention. Furthermore, there was an improvement in patients' breathlessness scores and completion of Advance Directive forms at 3 months after baseline. It is essential to plan intervention fidelity strategies to use throughout a study and to report fidelity results.
Electrical conductivity of polymer composites based on carbonized wood flour via plasma post‐treatment as an effective and economical filler
Authors: Kim Woo Young , Jang Ji‐un , Lee Hun Su , Kim Seong Yun
Published: July 2021

The recycling of waste resources is not optional but rather essential to achieve a sustainable human future. In this study, the feasibility of carbonized wood flour (CWF) as a conductive filler was evaluated for improving the electrical conductivity of polymer composites because wood flour is a sustainable and promising precursor for CWF filler, as a naturally abundant and industrially steady resource. The optimized electrical conductivity of the composite with 25 wt% CWF post‐treated by the inductively coupled plasma (ICP), proposed in this study, was 71 S/m, exceeding that of the carbon black (CB)‐filled composite (12 S/m). In addition, the estimated production cost of ICP treated CWF ($1.35–1.55/kg) was about 22.5%–32.5% lower than that of commercial CB ($2/kg). Therefore, the CWF was an effective, economical, and eco‐friendly conductive filler to enhance the electrical conductivity of polymer composites.
Polypropylene and hollow glass microspheres compatibilization via addition of compatibilizing agents
Authors: Eller Haverroth Guilherme , Guenther Soares Bluma
Published: July 2021

The glass syntactic polypropylene composite highlights as the most used wet thermal insulation solution for subsea pipelines. The continuous and disperse phases of the material, however, show low interaction levels due to poor chemical compatibility between the polypropylene matrix and the hollow glass microspheres, ultimately leading to a premature failure when subjected to mechanical loads. This article assesses the use of poly(propylene‐g‐maleic anhydride) and ethylene‐acrylic ester‐glycidyl methacrylate terpolymer as compatibilizing agents to enhance the matrix–filler interaction. The effectiveness of the selected strategy is analyzed through mechanical stress–strain tests, evaluation of absorbed water during hot water immersion, and evaluation of thermal properties. The composites with polypropylene and heterophasic polypropylene matrices, 25% by the weight of hollow glass microspheres, and contents of compatibilizing agents spanning from 1% to 5% by weight were prepared and tested. The addition of compatibilizers increased the tensile strength by 9%–30% and reduced the elongation at break by 13% to 45%. Thermal analyses indicated no significant influence of compatibilizers on melting points and crystallization temperatures; meanwhile, water absorption studies indicated opposite effects of each compatibilizer on the absorbed water content. Finally, the main results observed were ratified through scanning electron microscopy.
Melt electrowriting of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene)
Authors: Kade Juliane C , Tandon Biranche , Weichhold Jan , Pisignano Dario , Persano Luana , Luxenhofer Robert , Dalton Paul D
Published: July 2021

Poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐co‐TrFE)) is an electroactive polymer with growing interest for applications in biomedical materials and flexible electronics. In this study, a solvent‐free additive manufacturing technique called melt electrowriting (MEW) has been utilized to fabricate well‐defined microperiodic structures of the copolymer (P(VDF‐co‐TrFE)). MEW of the highly viscous polymer melt was initiated using a heated collector at temperatures above 120 °C and required remarkably slow collector speeds below 100 mm min−1. The fiber surface morphology was affected by the collector speed and an increase in β‐phase was observed for scaffolds compared to the unprocessed powder. Videography shows vibrations of the P(VDF‐co‐TrFE) jet previously unseen during MEW, probably due to repeated charge buildup and discharge. Furthermore, piezo‐force microscopy measurements demonstrated the electromechanical response of MEW‐fabricated fibers. This research therefore achieves the melt electrohydrodynamic processing of fibers with micrometer resolution into defined structures with an important electroactive polymer. © 2021 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Registration of Arkot 0822 cotton germplasm line
Authors: Bourland Fred , Jones Don
Published: July 2021

Arkot 0822 (Reg. no. GP‐1088, PI 697030) is a conventional cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) germplasm line that was released by the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station in October 2020. In 2008, ‘UA48’ was crossed with Arkot 0016 with the goal of developing lines having fiber quality of UA48 but with improved yields and broadened adaptation. Arkot 0822 is a sister line to ‘UA248’. Over 5 yr of Arkansas tests at four locations, lint yields of Arkot 0822 were 15.9% higher than UA48 and equal to UA248. Fiber quality of Arkot 0822 approaches that of UA48. In most tests, fiber length, length uniformity, and strength of Arkot 0822 were equal to UA248 and exceeded most entries except UA48. Micronaire of Arkot 0822 is comparable to UA48 and coarser than UA248. Arkot 0822 is an early‐maturity cultivar. It displays high resistance to bacterial blight and is equal to UA248 and ‘DP 393’ in its response to other diseases and to tarnished plant bug. Arkot 0822 combines fiber quality traits comparable to UA48 and UA248 with enhanced ability to yield.