bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics of Voxelotor in Patients With Renal and Hepatic Impairment
Authors: Preston Richard A. , Marbury Thomas , Balaratnam Ganesh , Green Michelle , Dixon Sandy , Lehrer‐Graiwer Josh , Washington Carla
Published: October 2020

Two open‐label studies assessed the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of Oxbryta (voxelotor) in subjects with hepatic or renal impairment. Eight subjects with severe renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min/1.73 m2) and 8 healthy age‐, sex‐, and body mass index–matched controls were administered a single oral dose of voxelotor 900 mg. Seven patients with mild (Child‐Pugh A), moderate (Child‐Pugh B), and severe (Child‐Pugh C) hepatic impairment and healthy age‐, sex‐, and body mass index–matched controls (7:7:7:7) were administered a single oral dose of voxelotor 1500 mg, except those with severe hepatic impairment (600 mg). There was no apparent effect of renal function on the excretion of voxelotor based on comparable half‐life values between subjects with severe renal impairment and healthy matched controls. Mean area under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUC0‐inf) values were lower by approximately 50% (plasma) and 25% (whole blood) in subjects with severe renal impairment compared with controls. Accordingly, dose adjustment is not required in patients with severe renal impairment. Voxelotor plasma and whole‐blood exposures were slightly increased in subjects with mild and moderate hepatic impairment. Mean AUC0‐inf values were approximately 9% to 18% higher compared with those of healthy matched controls. Dose adjustment is therefore not required in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment. Voxelotor mean AUC0‐inf values were approximately 90% higher in subjects with severe hepatic impairment. A lower voxelotor dose (1000 mg) is recommended for patients with severe hepatic impairment. Voxelotor was well tolerated in all treatment groups.
Heterocyclic steroids: Synthetic routes and biological characteristics of steroidal fused bicyclic pyrimidines
Authors: Elattar Khaled M. , El‐Mekabaty Ahmed
Published: October 2020

Natural steroids are characterized as a vital class of compounds, a type of secondary metabolites and components of cell membranes that widely accessible in plants or animals displayed significant pharmacological and varied biological properties. The present study aims to highlight the conveyed researches of synthetic routes adopted to obtain the various structures of steroidal fused bicyclic pyrimidines with substantial biological and pharmaceutical importance. The topic was discussed in light of the synthesis of fused [6 + 5] bicyclic systems, fused [6 + 6] bicyclic systems, binary heterocycles, and biological applications. In detail, the various synthetic strategies for the construction of steroids fused to bicyclic pyrazolopyrimidines, thiazolopyrimidines, triazolopyrimidines, pyridopyrimidines, pyranopyrimidines, and binary pyrimidines were discussed. Heterocyclic steroids of this class of compounds demonstrated potent anticancer, anti‐proliferative, anti‐neuro‐inflammatory, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐ulcer activities. It was perceived that the synthetic steroids of such bicyclic pyrimidine scaffolds are fused into the steroid basic skeleton is essential for the potent bioactivities.
A Meta‐Analysis of the Relationship between Mathematics Achievement and Creativity
Authors: Bicer Ali , Chamberlin Scott , Perihan Celal
Published: October 2020

In the current investigation, research studies (n = 30) conducted from 1965 to 2018 were synthesized to examine the mathematics achievement–creativity relationship and the range of factors that could have moderated this relationship. The meta‐analysis included sample size of 11,418 and revealed that there was an overall moderate and statistically significant (r = 0.47, p < .05) positive correlation between mathematics achievement and creativity. The investigation further revealed that the relationship was constant across sample location but stronger when the relationship was examined with mathematical creativity (r = 0.53, p < .05) than with general creativity. Findings from studies conducted after 2000 indicated a stronger relationship between general creativity and mathematics achievement than did findings from studies conducted before 2000. The relationship was the strongest when creativity was measured through the Mathematical Creativity Test (MCT) compared to other measures of general or mathematical creativity. Lastly, the relationship was stronger for elementary and middle school students than for high school students. Possible explanations for these findings in relation to existing theories and the implications for future research are provided.
The use of iron chemical analysis of podzols to date the Late Pleistocene–Holocene deglaciation history of the Central Italian Alps
Authors: Longhi Alessandro , Monticelli Damiano , Guglielmin Mauro
Published: October 2020

Podzols that have developed on glacial and periglacial features provide the opportunity to reconstruct glacial evolution after the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) using different soil indices. Analysing 17 soils classified as podzol, we used the crystallinity ratio of free iron oxides (CRF) on both the A and Bs horizons, and absolute ages for the same landforms containing the soil profile, to create dating curves. Two equations were generated: age = 4566.9 × ln (CRF) + 1760 (1), and age = 3907 × ln (CRF) + 3508.2 (2). The reliability of the curves was evaluated with the Feo/Fed ratio, and with the difference of ages calculated using both equations. Equation (2) is considered more reliable because the A horizon may be influenced by new pedogenesis on the pre‐existing podzol, leading to the development of a new type of soil. By dating the soils, we reconstructed the glacial history of the three main upper branches of the LGM Adda Glacier in the Central Italian Alps, specifically the Stelvio Pass area (ST), Gavia Pass area (GV), and the Val Viola valley (VV). Seven glacial advances were identified at 16.7–14.7 ka (phase I), 12.3 ka (phase II), 11 ka (phase III), 10–9.7 ka (phase IV), 9 ka (phase V), 7.5 ka (phase VI) and 5.3 ka (phase VII). The first five phases are chronologically similar to the main Late Pleistocene–Early Holocene phases recorded in the Central European Alps. The last two Holocene phases, which are both longer in duration than the Little Ice Age, are recorded in ST and GV. Interestingly, these phases generally are not recorded in the rest of the Central European Alps, where the late Holocene glaciers were smaller than their present size.
Microscopic portal vein invasion is a powerful predictor of prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who have undergone liver resection
Authors: Kuo Fang‐Ying , Liu Yueh‐Wei , Lin Chih‐Che , Yong Chee‐Chien , Wang Chih‐Chi , Chen Chao‐Long , Cheng Yu‐Fan , Wang Jing‐Houng , Yen Yi‐Hao
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

A recent study proposed simple classifications of microscopic vascular invasion (MVI): microscopic portal vein invasion (MPVI) and microvessel invasion (MI). We aim to validate these classifications of MVI.

Methods

This retrospective study consecutively enrolled 514 Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage 0, A, and B naïve hepatocellular carcinoma patients who underwent liver resection in our institution from 2011 to 2017.

Results

Among these 514 patients, 240 patients were classified as having no MVI at all (designated as no vascular invasion, NVI), 157 patients were classified as having MI only, and 117 patients were classified as having MPVI. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) rate in the MI‐only group was 83.3%, which was not significantly different from that of the NVI group (87.2%), p = .20. Using NVI as a reference, multivariate analysis showed that MI‐only is not an independent variable associated with OS. The 5‐year OS in the MPVI group was 59.2%, which was significantly lower than those for MI‐only (p < .001) and NVI groups (p < .001). Using NVI as a reference, multivariate analysis showed that MPVI is an independent variable associated with OS (HR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.80–5.40; p < .001).

Conclusions

The results of this study validate the simple MVI classifications to be clinically useful.
Sex‐based differences in time to surgical care among pancreatic cancer patients: A national study of Medicare beneficiaries
Authors: Azap Rosevine A. , Hyer James M. , Diaz Adrian , Tsilimigras Diamantis I. , Mirdad Rayyan S. , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The objective of this study was to characterize time from cancer symptoms to diagnosis and time from diagnosis to surgical treatment among patients undergoing pancreatectomy for cancer.

Methods

Medicare beneficiaries who underwent pancreatectomy for cancer between 2013 and 2017 were identified using the 100% Medicare Inpatient Standard Analytic Files. Mixed effects negative binomial regression models were utilized to determine which factors were associated with the number of weeks to diagnosis and pancreatic resection.

Results

Among 7647 Medicare beneficiaries, two‐thirds (n = 5127, 67%) had symptoms associated with a pancreatic cancer diagnosis before surgery. Median time from the first symptom to diagnosis was 6 weeks (IQR: 1–25) and the median time from diagnosis to surgery was 4 weeks (IQR: 2–15). In risk‐adjusted models, female patients had 13% longer waiting times from identification of a related symptom to pancreatic cancer diagnosis (OR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.05–1.21) and 12% longer waiting times from diagnosis to surgery (OR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07–1.18). Older age was associated with 10% longer waiting times from symptom identification to diagnosis (p < .0001).

Conclusions

Female and older patients had longer wait times between symptom presentation and pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Sex‐based disparities in cancer care need to be recognized and addressed by policymakers and health care institutions.
Patient factors associated with NPO violations in a tertiary care pediatric otolaryngology practice
Authors: Billings Kathleen R. , Schneider Alexander L. , Safri Shabbir , Kauffunger Lorena , Valika Taher
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To determine demographic and patient variables associated with nothing by mouth (NPO) violations prior to surgery in a tertiary care pediatric hospital.

Methods

A retrospective study of patients <18 years of age undergoing elective surgery at a tertiary care children's hospital from 1/1/16 to 4/30/19 who violated their NPO guidelines was performed. Variables associated with a higher rate of NPO violations were analyzed among the different surgical sub‐specialties. Additional analyses were performed comparing those with NPO violations to the total group of patients undergoing surgery in the study period.

Results

Of the 42 495 children who underwent elective surgical procedures in the study period, 625 (1.5%) committed NPO violations. The median age for those committing a violation was 3 years, and the majority (n = 421, 67.4%) were between 0 and 6 years of age. Otolaryngology patients committing NPO violations had a longer time between scheduling surgery and operative date than other surgical services (P < .0001), but a similar time as the urology service. Otolaryngology patients had the highest number of NPO violations (n = 245, 39.2%) compared to the other surgical services, despite doing 32.4% of the total surgical cases (P < .001). Children from Spanish‐speaking homes accounted for 137 (21.9%) NPO violations, despite accounting for only 11.2% of total surgeries performed. Patients with Medicaid insurance (n = 438, 63.0%) had a higher rate of NPO violations, despite making up 43.6% of total patients.

Conclusions

NPO violations occurred in 1.5% of patients during the study period, particularly among the youngest age range of the children analyzed, and they were most prevalent in the otolaryngology patients. Spanish speaking families, and those with Medicaid insurance had higher rates of NPO violations despite making up a smaller percentage of those being operated on overall. This highlighted the need for improvement in communication of fasting guidelines to caregivers.

Level of Evidence

3
Hyoid expansion with titanium plate and screws with hyomandibular suspension: A study on human cadavers with computed tomographic comparative analysis
Authors: Ng Adele Chin Wei , Salkade Parag Ratnakar , Rangabashyam Mahalakshmi , Loh Shaun Ray Han , Toh Song Tar
Published: October 2020

Objective(s)

Obstructive sleep apnoea is characterized by repetitive obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. These repeated oxygen desaturations increase cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality significantly. Upper airway surgery is an option for patients who fail continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Airway collapse is usually multilevel and hypopharyngeal collapse is a challenging area to address. It is hypothesized that hyoid expansion with hyomandibular suspension can potentially increase upper airway dimensions at the hypopharynx. This study aims to document the effect of hyoid expansion using titanium plate and screws with hyomandibular suspension on hypopharyngeal airway dimensions. It is an anatomical feasibility study performed using 10 human cadaver heads.

Methods

The hyoid bone is trifractured. The expanded hyoid is then suspended to the mandible. Computed tomography (CT) scans were performed on the cadavers to measure the airway dimensions before and after the procedure.

Results

This procedure resulted in statistically significant increase in airway dimensions at the level of the hypopharynx in all 10 human cadaver heads. Increase in cross‐sectional area correlated significantly with increase in 3‐dimentional (3D) volume.

The mean area of the airway at the level of the hyoid increased from 999.3 ± 193.0 mm2 to 1241.4 ± 103.2 mm2. Statistically significant increase in upper airway volume based on 3D reconstruction was also noted. Upper airway volume increased from 6.94 ± 6.46 mL to 13.58 ± 8.29 mL.

Conclusion

Airway dimensions increased with hyoid expansion and hyomandibular suspension in our cadaveric study measured using CT scans. Further studies are needed to see if this technique can be translated to clinical use in live patients.

Level of evidence

NA.
Harnessing hyperuricemia to atherosclerosis and understanding its mechanistic dependence
Authors: Jayachandran Muthukumaran , Qu Shen
Published: October 2020

Atherosclerosis is regarded as the disease of the arterial vasculature. The main characteristics of atherosclerosis are the abnormal accumulation of lipids, increased inflammatory cells, matrix deposits, and proliferation of smooth muscle cells. Diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hyperlipidemia are the most studied risk factors of atherosclerosis. One least studied risk factor is the uric acid (UA), a high UA in circulation is interlinked with many pathological processes. Several epidemiological studies suggest elevated UA levels as an essential biomarker in the forecast of several cardiovascular diseases. Available evidence claims that UA upholds the atherosclerosis process via disturbing lipid metabolism, reducing the nitric oxide synthesis in endothelial cells, promoting the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells, and overwhelms inflammation. In endothelial dysfunction and coronary artery lesions, UA is considered as an independent predictor. The updated studies on the involvement of hyperuricemia in atherosclerosis prove that treatment with xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitors not just benefits the treatment of hyperuricemia but also reduces the burden of atherosclerosis to a greater extent. In this review, we highlight how the hyperuricemia affects vascular integrity, causes atherosclerosis, and the mechanism of action of XO inhibitors on atherosclerosis.
Molecular analysis of low‐level mosaicism of the IKBKG mutation using the X Chromosome Inactivation pattern in Incontinentia Pigmenti
Authors: Kawai Miki , Kato Takema , Tsutsumi Makiko , Shinkai Yasuko , Inagaki Hidehito , Kurahashi Hiroki
Published: October 2020

Background

Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare X‐linked disorder affecting the skin and other ectodermal tissues that is caused by mutation of the IKBKG/NEMO gene. Previous studies have reported that the overall mutation detection rate in IP is ~75%. We hypothesized that a low‐level mosaicism existed in the remaining cases.

Methods

Genomic variations in the IKBKG gene were examined in 30 IP probands and their family members. Standard mutational analyses were performed to detect common deletions, nucleotide alterations, and copy number variations. To assess skewing of the X chromosome inactivation (XCI) pattern, a HUMARA assay was performed. We compared the results of this analysis with phenotype severity.

Results

Pathogenic variants were identified in 20 probands (66.7%), the rate of detection was suboptimal. The remaining 10 probands tended to manifest a mild phenotype with no skewed X chromosome inactivation that is generally observed in IP patients. Quantitative nested PCR and digital droplet PCR were performed for the 10 patients and mosaicism of the common IKBKG deletion were identified in five patients.

Conclusion

Overall, we detected 25 IKBKG mutations (83.3%). Determination of the XCI value in advance of mutational analyses for IP could improve the mutation detection rate. Our improved detection rate for these mutations, particularly those with a low‐level mosaicism, may present opportunities for appropriate genetic counseling.
Identification of two novel PRPF31 mutations in Chinese families with non‐syndromic autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Cao Li , Peng Chunyan , Yu Jing , Jiang Wei , Yang Jiyun
Published: October 2020

Background

Retinitis pigmentosa is a heterogeneous group of inherited retinal diseases leading to progressive vision loss. It has been estimated that the etiology is still unclear in 22%‐40% of cases, indicating that many novel pathogenic variations related to RP remain unidentified in many patients. In this study, our aim was to investigate the disease‐causing variants and function of the variants in two Chinese families with non‐syndromic autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (adRP).

Methods

Clinical data and peripheral blood DNA samples were collected. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was conducted to screen for variations. Then, the expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP)‐fused wild‐type PRPF31 protein and its variants was evaluated via western blotting and GFP fluorescence detection in vitro.

Results

Two novel heterozygous variants of PRPF31 (NM_015629.4): c.855+5G>A and c.849_855del (p.Pro284Ilefs*35) were identified respectively in two families. The variant c.855+5G>A is co‐segregated with the disease in adRP‐01 family. The pedigree analysis result for c.849_855del (p. Pro284Ilefs*35) shows an inheritance pattern with incomplete penetrance for adRP‐02 family. The RT‐PCR analysis shows the PRPF31 gene c.855+5G>A leading to the missing from the 997th to the 1405th positions of the PRPF31 gene (NM_015629.4) cDNA. The expressions of the mutant GFP‐fused PRPF31 protein were not detected in HEK293 cells or Cos7 cells via western blotting and immunofluorescence.

Conclusions

Our findings identified two novel variants in PRPF31 in two Chinese families with adRP, expanding the mutational spectrum of this gene. Functional analysis reveals that these variants lead to the truncation of the PRPF31 protein.
Comparison of transverse upper gracilis and profunda femoris artery perforator flaps for breast reconstruction: A systematic review
Authors: Jo Taehee , Kim Eun Key , Eom Jin Sup , Han Hyun Ho
Published: October 2020

Background

Thigh‐based flaps are generally considered a secondary option for breast reconstruction, with inner thigh‐based transverse upper gracilis (TUG) flaps being the preferred choice for many surgeons; however, its well‐established drawbacks include short pedicle length, lack of volume, and donor morbidity. The posterior thigh‐based profunda femoris artery perforator (PAP) flap was introduced as an alternative approach, but these flaps were not comparatively analyzed with TUG flaps on a large scale. We aimed to systematically review TUG‐ and PAP‐flap breast reconstruction to determine the better secondary option.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of the literature using the PubMed database. Our selected series for systematic analyses included 613 TUG flaps in 432 patients and 475 PAP flaps in 329 patients. Elementary data on the flaps and complications were collected and analyzed. Pooled estimates of proportions of flaps with recipient complications and donor site morbidity were compared using random effect single arm meta‐analysis.

Results

The basic patient demographics were comparable between the flap types. The mean operation time was comparable. The PAP flap had longer pedicle length and higher flap weight. The total loss (p = .6579), partial loss rate (p = .3247), and fat necrosis rate (p = .0771) were comparable between flap types. Regarding donor morbidity, the PAP flap group had less wound dehiscence (p < .0001) and lower rate of sensory disturbance (p < .0001).

Conclusions

The study findings indicate that the PAP flap, when compared with the TUG flap, could be a better secondary option for breast reconstructions.
One‐stage double free flap arteriovenous loop reconstruction of a massive abdominothoracic defect following necrotizing fasciitis: A case report
Authors: Falkner Florian , Thomas Benjamin , Hundeshagen Gabriel , Wittenberg Gerhard , Bliesener Björn , Bigdeli Amir K. , Kneser Ulrich
Published: October 2020

We report the case of a 67‐year old male with necrotizing fasciitis after injection of the glenohumeral joint. After extensive debridement a massive defect from the left hip joint to the left upper arm, exposing ribs, scapula, axillary vessels and brachial plexus (45 × 40 cm) was present. Reconstruction was performed with a conjoined right myocutaneous tensor fasciae lata/vastus lateralis flap and a left myocutaneous vastus lateralis flap in combination with an arteriovenous loop originating from the axillary vessels using the greater saphenous vein. Revisional surgeries were necessary including ribs resection and flap re‐advancements. Due to multiorganic failure invasive ventilation, renal replacement‐ and extensive transfusion therapy was required. After 241 days the patient was discharged for rehabilitation. At the 12 months follow‐up wounds were sufficiently closed without the need for further intervention. This case illustrates that immediate diagnosis followed by an aggressive multidisciplinary treatment approach is crucial for the patient survival.
Characterizing Fish–Habitat Associations through Paired Fisheries-Independent and In Situ Habitat Assessments
Authors: Clarkson Emma , Beseres Pollack Jennifer
Published: October 2020

Estuarine habitat has a significant influence on the growth, recruitment, and survival of fish and invertebrate species, and understanding habitat dynamics can improve fisheries management. However, the cost and effort associated with habitat monitoring can be limiting, and many large-scale fisheries-independent monitoring programs do not capture habitat and biological data concurrently. Consequently, fisheries and their associated habitats are often managed separately. We designed a pilot study to assess the utility and effectiveness of incorporating rapid in situ habitat characterization into a statewide fisheries management program. The occurrence of six focal species (Red Drum Sciaenops ocellatus, Spotted Seatrout Cynoscion nebulosus, blue crab Callinectes sapidus, Atlantic Croaker Micropogonias undulatus, brown shrimp Farfantepenaeus aztecus, and white shrimp Litopenaeus setiferus) and the overall faunal community composition were compared across estuarine habitats to assess the ability of this method to accurately depict fish–habitat associations. Focal species’ occurrence and community composition was significantly correlated with shoreline vegetation, seagrass presence, presence of mangroves, substrate type, and heterogeneity in vegetated habitat. This study demonstrates an effective approach to integrating habitat into fisheries-independent monitoring in pursuit of an ecosystem-based approach to fisheries management.
In‐situ force measurement during nano‐indentation combined with Laue microdiffraction
Authors: Lauraux Florian , Yehya Sarah , Labat Stéphane , Micha Jean‐Sébastien , Robach Odile , Kovalenko Oleg , Rabkin Eugen , Thomas Olivier , Cornelius Thomas W.
Published: October 2020

For the characterization of the mechanical properties of materials the precise measurements of stress‐strain curves is indispensable. In situ nano‐mechanical testing setups, however, may lack the precision either in terms of strain or stress determination. Recently, the custom‐built scanning force microscope SFINX was developed which is compatible with third‐generation synchrotron end‐stations allowing for in situ nano‐mechanical tests in combination with nanofocused synchrotron x‐ray diffraction that is highly sensitive to strain and defects. The usage of a self‐actuating and self‐sensing cantilever tremendously increases the compactness of the system but lacks deflection sensitivity and, thus the force measurement. This deficiency is resolved by in situ monitoring the diffraction peaks of the Si cantilever by Laue microdiffraction during the nano‐indentation of a gold crystal. The orientation and, hence, the deflection of the Si cantilever is deduced from the displacement of the Si Laue spots on the detector giving force accuracies of better than 90 nN. At the same time, the dislocation density in the indented Au crystal is tracked by monitoring the Au Laue spots eventually resulting in complete stress‐dislocation density curves.
Unconditional convergence of linearized orthogonal spline collocation algorithm for semilinear subdiffusion equation with nonsmooth solution
Authors: Zhang Haixiang , Yang Xuehua , Xu Da
Published: October 2020

A linearized orthogonal spline collocation (OSC) method withC1splines of degree≥3on a suitable graded mesh is formulated and analyzed for approximate solution of an initial‐boundary‐value problem of semilinear subdiffusion equations with nonsmooth solutions in time. The sharp error estimate in theL2norm is established without any restriction on the relative temporal and spatial mesh sizes. Such unconditional convergence results are proved by including the typical singularity of the solution near the timet = 0. Results of numerical experiments support the analytical results.
Graphene oxide/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes nanocompsite polyamide nanofiltration membrane for dyeing‐printing wastewater treatment
Authors: Wei Xiuzhen , Cao Shiyu , Hu Jiayao , Chen Yi , Yang Ruiyuan , Huang Jiahao , Wang Ze , Zhou Qinghua , Chen Jinyuan
Published: October 2020

Graphene oxide (GO)/multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) modified nanofiltration (NF) membranes were successfully fabricated by interfacial polymerization of piperazine (PIP) and 1,3,5‐benzenetricarbonyl trichloride (TMC). Compared with the pristine polyamide (PA) membrane and GO membrane, the typical structure of the granular protrusions on the surface of the GO/MWCNTs membrane gradually disappeared, and a regular ordered morphology appeared. The membrane thickness and surface roughness were increased according to the results of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The contact angle of GO/MWCNTs NF membranes progressively decreased from 57° to 23°, indicating the enhancement of surface hydrophilicity. The best NF performance was achieved when the ratio of GO to MWCNTs was 6:3 (G‐M‐3). The water flux was 55.6 L/m2.h, which was 33.7% higher than that of the GO membrane, and the rejection rate for Na2SO4 was maintained at approximately 94%. Both modified NF membranes could treat actual dyeing‐printing wastewater effectively. The anti‐fouling performance of G‐M‐3 was better than that of G3. Therefore, GO/MWCNTs‐modified NF membranes have a good application prospects in the field of wastewater treatment and water purification.
Polyhydroxamic acid as an efficient metal chelator and flocculant for wastewater treatment
Authors: Arun Yuvaraj , Daifa Mahran , Domb Abraham J.
Published: October 2020

Hydroxamic acid containing organic polymeric flocculants were synthesized from three different commercially available polymeric flocculants, such as WAS590, Zetag 4100, and Zetag 4110. These three polymers are acrylamide and acrylic acid‐based copolymers with different molecular weights and anionic charge density. The conversion of the amide groups to hydroxamic acid groups in the polymers was carried out by the reaction with hydroxylamine at pH 14. The modified polymers were characterized for structure and composition by elemental analysis, FTIR, and NMR. The chelation activity of the modified polymers was determined toward iron (Fe3+) and copper (Cu2+). The flocculation activity of the non‐modified and modified polymers was evaluated toward produced water and scrubber water. The results showed that all the modified flocculants exhibit better chelation with Fe3+ and Cu2+. In addition, the modified polymers display improved flocculation effect on tested wastewater.
Optimization of Vancomycin Dosing Regimen in Cancer Patients using Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Modeling
Authors: Alqahtani Saeed , Almatrafi Abdullah , Bin Aydan Norah , Alqahtani Meshari , Alzamil Faisal , Alsultan Abdullah , Asiri Yousif
Published: October 2020

Background

Gram‐positive bacterial infections are considered one of the major causes of mortality and morbidity in patients with cancer. Hence, the challenge lies in regulating the pervasive use of vancomycin in the management of infections facing such patients due to the anomalous vancomycin pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PDs). Inappropriate vancomycin exposure is associated with toxicity, pathogen resistance, and therapeutic failure.

Objective

The aim of this study was to estimate vancomycin PK in patients with cancer and without cancer. The standard dosage regimens of vancomycin were then evaluated using data from PK modeling.

Methods

In this observational PK study, the data were extracted from a matched patient cohort of those with cancer and those without cancer. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using Monolix version 4.4, and the PK parameters were compared in both groups (cancer vs noncancer). The standard and suggested vancomycin dosing regimens were evaluated using PK/PD modeling and Monte Carlo Simulations.

Results

In total, 448 blood samples were analyzed from 147 patients enrolled in this study, of which 73 patients had cancer and 74 patients were noncancer patients. In general, no significant differences were observed between the two groups (cancer vs noncancer) in all characteristics except for the vancomycin levels, which were significantly lower in patients with cancer (p = 0.00104). This analysis showed that patients with cancer showed a significantly higher vancomycin clearance than noncancer patients (p = 0.002), whereas the volume of distribution (V) was found to be similar in both groups (p = 0.83).This resulted in most of the patients failing to achieve the target area under the curve from zero to 24 hours (AUC0–2) to the minimum inhibitory concentration. These data showed that a higher maintenance dose of vancomycin is required to achieve the PD target.

Conclusions

The findings of this study showed that the patients with cancer have lower levels of vancomycin due to higher clearance than noncancer patients. Thus, higher doses than the standard vancomycin doses may be needed to treat invasive Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections in patients with cancer.
Examining the relation between PASS cognitive processes and superior reading and mathematics performance
Authors: Georgiou George K. , Bulut Okan , Dunn Kristy , Naglieri Jack A. , Das J. P.
Published: October 2020

Although several studies have shown that planning, attention, simultaneous, and successive (PASS) cognitive processes—operationalized with the cognitive assessment system (CAS; Naglieri & Das, 1997)—are significant predictors of academic performance in the general population, little is known about their role among children with superior academic skills. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine whether PASS processes can predict superior performance in reading and mathematics. We used the standardization sample of CAS (n = 1210) and further identified children with superior reading (n = 62) and mathematics (n = 73) performance on Woodcock–Johnson Tests of Achievement–Revised (Woodcock & Johnson, 1989). Results of the initial regression analyses showed that the PASS processes were significant predictors of superior reading and mathematics performance. Next, a classification and regression tree approach showed that the PASS scores could classify superior or not‐superior readers and mathematicians with 89% and 82% accuracy, respectively. Theoretical and practical implications of our results are discussed.
Diagnostic value of lung ultrasonography in children with COVID‐19
Authors: Hizal Mina , Aykac Kubra , Yayla Burcu C. C. , Yilmaz Arzu , Altun Demet , Akkaya Habip E. , Bayhan Gulsum I. , Kurt Aysegul N. C. , Karakaya Jale , Ozsurekci Yasemin , Ceyhan Mehmet
Published: October 2020

Background

Lung ultrasound (LUS) has been successfully used in the diagnosis of different pulmonary diseases. Present study design to determine the diagnostic value of LUS in the evaluation of children with novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19).

Methods and Objectives

Prospective multicenter study, 40 children with confirmed COVID‐19 were included. LUS was performed to all patients at admission. The chest X‐ray and computed tomography (CT) were performed according to the decision of the primary physicians. LUS results were compared with chest X‐ray and CT findings and diagnostic performance was determined.

Results

Of the 40 children median (range) was 10.5 (0.4–17.8) years. Chest X‐ray and LUS were performed on all and chest CT was performed on 28 (70%) patients at the time of diagnosis. Sixteen (40%) patients had no apparent chest CT abnormalities suggestive of COVID‐19, whereas 12 (30%) had abnormalities. LUS confirmed the diagnosis of pulmonary involvement in 10 of 12 patients with positive CT findings. LUS demonstrated normal lung patterns among 15 of 16 patients who had normal CT features. The sensitivity and the area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve (area under the ROC curve) identified by the chest X‐ray and LUS tests were compared and statistically significantly different (McNemar's test: p = .016 and p = .001 respectively) detected. Chest X‐ray displayed false‐negative results for pulmonary involvement in 75% whereas for LUS it was 16.7%.

Conclusions

LUS might be a useful tool in the diagnostic steps of children with COVID‐19. A reduction in chest CT assessments may be possible when LUS is used in the initial diagnostic steps for these children.
Energetic Materials Combustion Catalysis: Necessary Conditions for Implementation
Authors: Denisyuk Anatoly P. , Aung Zar Ni , Shepelev Yury G.
Published: October 2020

The features of the catalysis of combustion of aromatic nitro compounds (trinitrates of toluene, resorcinol, phenol, etc.) have been studied. It has been shown that catalysts have a significant effect on the combustion of aromatic nitro compounds, and, as in the case of double‐base propellants, their efficiency increases with the addition of carbon materials, especially carbon nanotubes (CNTs). For example, the addition of 3% nickel salicylate in combination with 1% CNTs to trinitroresorcinol leads to an increase in its burning rate by 4.3 times. It has been shown that, as in the case of double‐base propellants, a necessary condition for the catalysis of nitro compounds is the formation of a carbon frame (deposit char layer) on the burning surface, on which catalyst particles accumulate and accelerate exothermic reactions. This fact, combined with the high thermal conductivity of the carbon frame, leads to an increase in the heat flux into the condensed phase and an increase in the burning rate. As pressure increases, the formation of the frame becomes more difficult, and the effect of catalysts decreases, as a result of which the value of pressure exponent reduces. The proposed mechanism of combustion catalysis is applicable to almost any individual explosives and propellant compositions based on various plasticizers (nitroesters, linear liquid nitro compounds and nitramines, etc.), as well as containing powerful explosives (RDX, HMX, CL‐20, etc.), the combustion of which proceeds due to the heat of redox reactions.
An Estimate of the TNT‐Equivalent Net Explosive Quantity (NEQ) of the Beirut Port Explosion Using Publicly‐Available Tools and Data
Authors: Stennett Chris , Gaulter Sally , Akhavan Jackie
Published: October 2020

Publicly available video recordings of the explosion in Beirut on August 4, 2020, were examined and from them it was possible, in conjunction with the well‐known Google Maps website, to obtain estimates for the locations of the observers’ cameras with respect to the blast, and estimates for the blast wave arrival time. A publicly‐available blast wave calculator was then used to estimate the size of the explosion in terms of the equivalent quantity of TNT that would produce the same blast wave arrival time at the observers’ distance. This work estimates the Beirut explosion to have been equivalent to 637 tons TNT, with a lower bound estimate of 407 tons and an upper bound estimate of 936 tons.
Pyrexia and acidosis act independently of neutrophil elastase reactive center loop cleavage to effect cortisol release from corticosteroid‐binding globulin
Authors: Meyer Emily J. , Torpy David J. , Chernykh Anastasia , Thaysen‐Andersen Morten , Nenke Marni A. , Lewis John G. , Rajapaksha Harinda , Rankin Wayne , Polyak Steven W.
Published: October 2020

Corticosteroid‐binding globulin (CBG) transports cortisol and other steroids. High‐affinity CBG (haCBG) undergoes proteolysis of the reactive center loop (RCL) by neutrophil elastase (NE) altering conformation to low‐affinity CBG (laCBG). Elevated temperature reduces CBG:cortisol binding affinity. Surface plasmon resonance was used to determine binding profiles of 19 steroids to haCBG and laCBG at 25, 37, and 39°C mimicking pyrexia and pH 7.4 and 7.0 mimicking acidosis, pathophysiological conditions relevant to sepsis. An expected 4–8‐fold reduction in affinity for cortisol, cortisone, corticosterone, 11‐deoxycortisol, progesterone, 17‐hydroxyprogesterone, and prednisolone occurred with NE‐mediated haCBG‐to‐laCBG conversion. CBG:cortisol binding affinity was further reduced 3.5‐fold at 39°C relative to 37°C, binding affinity was also reduced by acidosis for both haCBG and laCBG. Using a conformational antibody generated against the RCL, we confirmed RCL antibody binding was eliminated by NE cleavage, but preserved in pyrexia and acidosis. Molecular modeling studies performed at 40°C confirmed a critical role for Trp371, positioned within the steroid‐binding pocket, in ligand binding. These studies demonstrated CBG binding affinity to range of steroids is ligand specific and is reduced with NE‐mediated haCBG‐to‐laCBG transition. Reduced CBG:cortisol binding occurs with increased temperature and in acidosis. Increased flexibility of the Trp371 side chain is proposed in the thermo‐coupling mechanism of cortisol release. The synergy of NE cleavage, pyrexia, and acidosis on CBG:cortisol binding may serve to enhance cortisol delivery to the interstitial space in inflammation.
Toward Superconducting Electron Accelerators for Various Applications
Authors: Hama Hiroyuki , Miura Sadao
Published: October 2020

A 300 MeV electron linac is constructed in 1967 at Tohoku University for advanced research on nuclear physics, radiochemistry and neutron science. A very high beam repetition rate of 300 pps is employed to achieve a duty factor of more than 0.1%. Although substantial parts of the linac sadly collapsed as a result of the Great East Japan earthquake occurred in 2011, the low‐energy part of the linac still supplies high‐intensity beams. To expand current research activities, the introduction of a versatile accelerator system that employs superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) cavities have been considered. Because the low surface resistance on these SRF cavities decreases the power dissipated to the cavity walls, the beams can be accelerated with a duty factor as high as 100%. However, the SRF cavities, which are manufactured from niobium (Nb), need to be operated at cryogenic temperatures of 2 K with a considerably large cryogenic system. Recently it is pointed out that the large heat load could be greatly lowered by replacing the standard Nb cavities with those coated with high‐temperature superconductors. The possibility of developing simple and low‐cost SRF accelerators based on conduction cooling with a 4 K refrigerator system is anticipated.
Laser Ablation and Ni/Cu Plating Approach for Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contacts Solar Cells with Variate Polysilicon Layer Thickness: Gains and Possibilities in Comparison to Screen Printing
Authors: Arya Varun , Steinhauser Bernd , Gruebel Benjamin , Schmiga Christian , Bay Norbert , Brunner Damian , Passig Michael , Brand Andreas A. , Kluska Sven , Nekarda Jan
Published: October 2020

Herein, an alternative approach of metallization on tunnel oxide passivated contacts (TOPCon) devices, through the method of localized laser ablation and nickel–copper plating, is presented. The method is demonstrated to be a viable and effective alternative, yielding better performance and results than the conventional screen‐printed contacts. The laser ablation process, with a lower increase in recombination current as compared to screen printing, proves to be a far less damaging process than the latter. TOPCon solar cells, fabricated and compared using the two metallization approaches, show a substantial improvement in an absolute power efficiency of ≈1%. Due to the highly superficial nature of damage with the optimized laser parameters, it enables the reduction of the poly‐Si layer thickness down to 70 nm in the TOPCon stack and also a high cell conversion efficiency of 22%. This allows for a substantial reduction in ownership costs of the final device without compromising on performance, making TOPCon cells with plated contacts an attractive technological upgrade for industrial‐level production following the passivated emitter rear contact cell technology.
The Strain and Electric Field Effects on the Electronic and Optical Properties of Armchair MoSSe/WSSe Superlattice Nanoribbon: A First‐Principles Study
Authors: Yu Lingling , Guo Wenyu , Sun Shoutian , Ye Xiang
Published: October 2020

The electronic and optical properties of armchair Janus MoSSe/WSSe superlattice nanoribbons (A‐JSLNRs) under strain and electric field are studied by first‐principles calculations. The bandgap of A‐JSLNRs can be dramatically modulated by axial strain and transverse electric field. The optical absorption edge shows an obvious red‐shift trend with the increasing strain, and the absorption peak for the visible light will be enhanced significantly as strain decreases from 8% to −8%. The general rule for the change of the bandgap and the optical absorption tuned by strain is explained well according to the different changes of near‐band‐edge states. Moreover, the transverse electric field will induce a semiconductor–metal transition to the A‐JSLNRs. Based on the results, the electronic bandgap and optical properties of A‐JSLNRs shows sensitivity to the applied strain and external electric field, which can be used to effectively tune the properties of A‐JSLNRs to make them suitable for optoelectronic applications.
Regression calibration to correct correlated errors in outcome and exposure
Authors: Shaw Pamela A. , He Jiwei , Shepherd Bryan E.
Published: October 2020

Measurement error arises through a variety of mechanisms. A rich literature exists on the bias introduced by covariate measurement error and on methods of analysis to address this bias. By comparison, less attention has been given to errors in outcome assessment and nonclassical covariate measurement error. We consider an extension of the regression calibration method to settings with errors in a continuous outcome, where the errors may be correlated with prognostic covariates or with covariate measurement error. This method adjusts for the measurement error in the data and can be applied with either a validation subset, on which the true data are also observed (eg, a study audit), or a reliability subset, where a second observation of error prone measurements are available. For each case, we provide conditions under which the proposed method is identifiable and leads to consistent estimates of the regression parameter. When the second measurement on the reliability subset has no error or classical unbiased measurement error, the proposed method is consistent even when the primary outcome and exposures of interest are subject to both systematic and random error. We examine the performance of the method with simulations for a variety of measurement error scenarios and sizes of the reliability subset. We illustrate the method's application using data from the Women's Health Initiative Dietary Modification Trial.
Investigation on Hot Compression Precipitation and Recrystallization Behavior of 23.7Cr–2.2Ni–1.3Mo–14Mn–0.26N High‐Manganese Low‐Nickel Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Pu Chaobo , Yang Yinhui , Pan Xiaoyu , Ni Ke
Published: October 2020

Isothermal compression deformation studies for 23.7Cr–2.2Ni–1.3Mo–14Mn–0.26 N low‐nickel duplex stainless steel (DSS) are investigated under deformation conditions of 800–1150 °C/0.01–10 s−1. The flow curve and deformation microstructure analysis show that deformation softening changes from ferrite dynamic recrystallization (DRX) to austenite DRX, with increasing temperature from 800 and 900 °C to 1050 °C deformed at 0.01–1 s−1. The sigma (σ) precipitate formation is mainly affected by the interaction of deformation temperature and strain rate. In addition to deformation time controlled by strain rate, the refining microstructure of ferrite DRX accelerates σ precipitate formation due to the increase in diffusion channels deformed at 900 °C/0.01 s−1 and 900 °C/1 s−1. The hot deformation activation energy is calculated as 367.03 kJ mol−1, and the relationship between the critical conditions for DRX initiating and Zener–Hollomon parameters is established. The decreasing Z value contributes to deformation softening at low strain, and the DRX softening effect is enhanced deformed at 800–900 °C/0.01–0.1 s−1. Meanwhile, the modified dynamic crystallization kinetics model of tested DSS at a strain rate of 1 s−1 is established.
Zur Ermittlung der Grenzstützweiten der Begehbarkeit von Stahltrapezprofilen
Authors: Kuhnhenne Markus , Pyschny Dominik , Pauli Gesa
Published: October 2020

Die Verwendung höherfester Materialien in der Produktion von Stahlprofilen bietet die Möglichkeit höherer Tragfähigkeiten bei gleichbleibendem Querschnitt. Alternativ können durch die verbesserten Festigkeitseigenschaften die Bauteildicken reduziert werden. Hinsichtlich der Nutzung von Stahltrapezprofilen ermöglicht dieser Fortschritt die Realisierung herkömmlicher Spannweiten mit Profiltafeln geringerer Blechdicken und erlaubt somit einen reduzierten Materialeinsatz. Frei spannende Profiltafeln sind grundsätzlich nicht begehbar. Ausnahmen hierfür liegen jedoch zum einen während der Montage und zum anderen im Falle von Wartungs‐ und Reinigungsarbeiten vor. Bis zu welcher Stützweite die Profiltafeln zu diesem Zweck ohne lastverteilende Maßnahmen begangen werden dürfen, legt die sog. Grenzstützweite der Begehbarkeit fest. Diese stellt im deutschsprachigen Raum einen wesentlichen Aspekt bei der Auslegung von Dachaufbauten aus Stahltrapezprofilen dar. Die Grenzstützweiten der Begehbarkeit neuartiger Stahltrapezprofile aus höherfesten Stählen mit geringen Blechdicken wurden im Rahmen von Untersuchungen an der RWTH Aachen behandelt. Ausgewählte Ergebnisse sollen im vorliegenden Beitrag vorgestellt werden.