bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new early warning indicator of abrupt climate change based on the changing normalized dynamic range
Authors: Wu Qiong , Xie Xiao‐qiang , Mei Ying , He Wen‐ping
Published: January 2021

An abrupt change will occur when the system is forced to across a critical threshold. This study presents a novel early warning indicator—the changing normalized dynamic range. We use a one‐variable climate model and three simple folding models to test the performance of the new early warning indicator. The results show that the present indicator exhibits a statistically significant increase or decrease in all of tests at a significance level of α = .05 before a dynamical system with a folding bifurcation approaches a tipping point. Comparing the well‐known autocorrelation coefficient with the normalized dynamic range, it is found that autocorrelation coefficient performs well in most of tests, which shows an almost monotonous increasing or decreasing trend for an upcoming abrupt change. However, autocorrelation coefficient exhibits a diametrically opposite trend for a noise‐induced abrupt change in a two‐dimensional vegetable model. The kurtosis coefficient can perform well in most of the tests used in this study, however, fails to give an early warning in a particular case. Moreover, the magnitude of change of the autocorrelation and kurtosis is much smaller than that of the normalized dynamic range before the four folding models approach its tipping point. Therefore, the performance of the new indicator for warning an abrupt change in advance is better than that of the autocorrelation coefficient as well as kurtosis coefficient, which can make up for the deficiency of the kurtosis coefficient and autocorrelation coefficient to some extent.
Evaluation of gridded rain‐gauge‐based precipitation datasets: Impact of station density, spatial resolution, altitude gradient and climate
Authors: Merino Andrés , García‐Ortega Eduardo , Navarro Andrés , Fernández‐González Sergio , Tapiador Francisco J. , Sánchez José Luis
Published: January 2021

Gridded precipitation datasets have been developed for data assimilation and evaluation tasks of weather and climate models and for climate analyses. Gridded data uncertainty evaluation is crucial to understand the limitations and feasibility. The development of high‐resolution daily gridded precipitation datasets is desirable, but several factors need to be considered, namely rain gauge station availability, their spatial distribution, and orographic and climate characteristics of a study area. Quality assessment of gridded datasets can present difficulties when the influence of these factors is not thoroughly analysed. The main objective of this study was a detailed validation of precipitation grids based on four factors, that is, station density used for grid construction, grid spatial resolution, station altitude, and climate type. To this end, 18 grids were built using six spatial resolutions (0.01°, 0.025°, 0.05°, 0.1°, 0.2° and 0.4°) and three station densities (25, 50 and 75% of all available stations). Results indicate larger differences among the grids as a function of analysed factors. Station density was found to be the main factor, whereas grid spatial resolution had minor importance. However, the latter factor becomes more relevant in areas with strong altitude gradients and when a high station density is available. In addition, weak and moderate precipitation is overestimated on daily grids, whereas heavy precipitation cells are less frequent, reducing data variability. On the contrary, monthly and annual aggregates present less deviation from the observed distribution than daily comparisons. These findings question the applicability of the daily grid datasets for validation studies and climate analysis on a grid cell level.
Residual effects of B and Zn fertilizers applied to dry season crops on the performance of the follow‐up crop of maize in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Shova , Becker Mathias , Lamers John P.A. , Wimmer Monika A.
Published: January 2021

Background: Diversified food crop production systems with high‐value vegetable crops are increasingly replacing conventional rice–wheat rotations across Nepal. These newly emerging systems are likely to enhance the demand for the micro‐nutrients boron (B) and zinc (Zn), which are already widely deficient throughout in Nepal. However, B and Zn fertilizers often are either unavailable in rural areas, not available in a timely manner, or when available not affordable by smallholder farmers.

Aims: To overcome multiple constraints concerning the need and efficient use of B and Zn amendments in a technical feasible way with a high financial efficiency for farmers and without compromising the environment, the current study assessed whether soil stock provisioning, e.g., B and Zn fertilizer applications to dry season crops, may provide sufficient residual effects for the succeeding non‐fertilized wet season crop.

Methods: A pot experiment was conducted in a sheltered greenhouse using two contrasting but representative soil types (Acrisol and Fluvisol) collected from rice‐ and from maize‐based production systems in Nepal. Boron and Zn amounts were supplied individually or in combination to wheat, cauliflower, and tomato grown in the dry season of 2018, whilst measuring biomass accumulation, B and Zn concentrations in plant tissues of all crops which allowed calculating B and Zn uptake in the unfertilized follow‐up crop of maize.

Results: Soil‐applied B and Zn fertilizers, sole and combined, slightly enhanced biomass of the succeeding non‐fertilized maize only, but significantly increased total B and Zn plant uptake, with significant differences between soil types. Furthermore, while maize shoot B concentrations were consistently increased above the critical levels in both soils, but especially in the Fluvisol after wheat and cauliflower pre‐crops, Zn uptake of maize was more enhanced in the Acrisol.

Conclusions: The residual effects of B and/or Zn applied to preceding dry season crops benefitted the subsequent wet season maize, especially after the pre‐crops wheat and cauliflower in the Fluvisol for B, and after wheat and tomato in the Acrisol for Zn. They may suffice to attain reasonable yields of wet season crops in the emerging vegetable‐based cropping systems of Nepal, even if fertilizers are not consistently available. The magnitude of the residual effects of pre‐applied Zn largely depended on the soil type, while those of B were mainly determined by the pre‐crop.
Consumer ethnocentrism and consumer animosity: A literature review
Authors: Farah Maya F. , Mehdi Nour I.
Published: January 2021

The study explores the historical evolution of consumer ethnocentrism and consumer animosity to build an ampler understanding of the deliberated topics and identify probable future research inquiries. Four research gaps in the extant literature are identified, namely: (a) a lack of systematic assessments and comprehensive summaries in the field, (b) a dominance of quantitative research studies, (c) a scarcity in historical reviews, and (d) a lack of a common understanding of the link between consumer ethnocentrism and consumer animosity.
Corporate social irresponsibility and stakeholder ecosystems: The case of Volkswagen Dieselgate scandal
Authors: Zhang Michael , Atwal Glyn , Kaiser Maya
Published: January 2021

The Volkswagen emissions cheating scandal, known as “Dieselgate,” demonstrates that businesses can safeguard corporate social responsibility objectives and prevent or repair damage from corporate social irresponsibility by involving the stakeholder ecosystem in positive value co‐creation. There is a lack of strategic management research offering a systematic approach to different stakeholders and their varied roles in responding to companies' corporate social irresponsibility. We adopt the theoretical lenses of stakeholder ecosystems and stakeholder value co‐creation to re‐examine Volkswagen's Dieselgate scandal to delineate the complex and evolving interactions among concerned stakeholders, which can shed light on the ongoing debate and research on brand management, corporate reputation, trust, sustainability, and sustainable mobility.
Improvement of Low‐Rank Coal Flotation Based on the Enhancement of Wettability Difference between Organic Matter and Gangue
Authors: Sun Xiaole , Zhang Lei , Xie Zhixuan , Li Bao , Liu Shengyu
Published: January 2021

The main reason for low separation efficiency in low rank coal (LRC) flotation was the small wettability difference between organic matter and gangue. To improve LRC flotation response, a new method based on the expansion of wettability difference was proposed in this investigation. This method is that changing the adsorption liquid environment (adding Ca2+) to enhance the selective adsorption of surfactants on the surface of organic matter and increase its hydrophobicity, meanwhile applying ultrasonic desorption to remove the surfactants adsorbed on the gangue. The experiments were conducted on organic matter, gangue, and raw coal and combined with surfactant adsorption/desorption capacity, FTIR, and wetting heat determination to explore the underlying mechanism. The best flotation performance of raw coal was obtained when desorption time was 30 s. Surfactant adsorption results indicated that Ca2+ could promote the adsorption of surfactant on organic matter, but has insignificant effect on gangue. Under ultrasonic condition, surfactant capacity adsorbed on gangue decreased in the presence of Ca2+, but the addition of Ca2+ could inhibit surfactant desorption. However, in the raw coal, the surfactants could be removed from gangue surface under ultrasonic and Ca2+ because of the low proportion of gangue in raw coal and weaker adsorption strength of Ca2+ on gangue, as indicated by the ash reduction. Wetting heat results suggested that wettability difference between organic matter and gangue was expanded after ultrasonic treatment. This study may have some guiding significance for improving LRC flotation.
Jasmonic acid and salicylic acid induce the accumulation of sucrose and increase resistance to chilling injury in peach fruit
Authors: Zhao Yaoyao , Song Congcong , Qi Shuning , Lin Qiong , Duan Yuquan
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

Salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) can both enhance resistance of chilling injury (CI) in cold‐storage peach fruit, but the regulatory mechanisms involved and whether there is a coordinated regulation between them is unclear. In this study, postharvest peach fruit were treated with an aqueous SA solution for 15 min or an aqueous JA solution for 30 s before storage at 4 °C for 35 days.

RESULTS

SA and JA treatments both delayed and reduced development of internal browning (a symptom of CI) and induced the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and sucrose. The SA and JA also reduced catalase and peroxidase activities, which are involved in hydrogen peroxide generation. The SA and JA treatments significantly regulated the transcript abundance of genes related to sucrose biosynthesis and degradation consistent with the observed increase in sucrose content.

CONCLUSION

These results intimate that JA and SA may be involved in coordinating the alleviation of CI via increased accumulation of sucrose. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of in‐package atmospheric cold plasma treatment on the qualitative, metabolic and microbial stability of fresh‐cut pears
Authors: Zhang Yingtong , Zhang Jianhao , Zhang Yuanyuan , Hu Huali , Luo Shufen , Zhang Leigang , Zhou Hongsheng , Li Pengxia
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND

The greatest hurdle to commercial marketing of fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables is limited shelf life due to microbial hazards and quality deterioration. Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) is an emerging non‐thermal technology with significant potential to improve the safety and storability of fresh products. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of ACP, generated in sealed packaging, on the qualitative, metabolic and microbial stability of fresh‐cut pears during simulated cold storage.

RESULTS

ACP treatments were effective in inhibiting the growth of mesophilic aerobic bacteria, yeast and mold, particularly CP3 (65 kV, 1 min), which could prolong shelf life to the greatest extent. While decontamination was not always associated with an increase in plasma intensity. Moreover, at 65 kV for 1 min, ACP treatment had the potential to retard respiration, and maintain organoleptic properties and other quality attributes. Additionally, peroxidase and pectin methylesterase (PME) activities were reduced immediately after treatments. These effects were dependent on treatment voltage and time, while a subsequent recovery in activity was only observed for PME.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained from this study will contribute to an understanding of the effects of in‐package ACP treatments on the storability and microbial safety of fresh‐cut pears. This knowledge could be beneficial in reducing quality losses for fresh‐cut pears and the preservation of other products. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Hazard function analysis of metastatic recurrence after colorectal cancer surgery—A nationwide retrospective study
Authors: Ishimaru Kazuhiro , Kawai Kazushige , Nozawa Hiroaki , Sasaki Kazuhito , Murono Koji , Emoto Shigenobu , Ishii Hiroaki , Anzai Hiroyuki , Sonoda Hirofumi , Yamauchi Shinichi , Sugihara Kenichi , Ishihara Soichiro ,   And other members of the University of Tokyo Study Group
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives

An optimal postoperative surveillance protocol for colorectal cancer (CRC) is dependent on understanding the time line of recurrence. By hazard function analysis, this study aimed at evaluating the time of occurrence of metastasis.

Methods

A total of 21,671 Stage I–III colon cancer patients were retrospectively included from the Japanese study group for postoperative follow‐up of colorectal cancer database.

Results

The 5‐year incidence by metastasized organ was 6.3% for liver (right:left = 5.5%:7.0%, p = .0067), 6.0% for lung (right:left:rectum = 3.7%:4.4%:8.8%, p = 7.05E−45), and 2.0% for peritoneal (right:left:rectum = 3.1%:2.0%:1.2%, p = 1.29E−12). The peak of liver metastasis hazard rate (HR) (0.67 years) was earlier and higher than those of other metastases. The peak HR tended to be delayed in early stage CRCs (0.91, 0.76, and 0.52 years; for Stages I, II, and III, respectively). When analyzed as per the primary tumor location (right‐sided, left‐sided, and rectum), the peak HR for lung metastasis was twice as high for rectal cancer than for colon cancer, and peritoneal metastasis had a high HR in right‐sided colon cancers.

Conclusion

The time course for the risk of recurrence in various metastatic organs based on the primary tumor site was clearly visualized in this study. This will aid in individualizing postoperative surveillance schedules.
Clinical Significance of Increasing Pressure Curve's Slope When Injecting Ultrasound Contrast Agent During Evaluation of Fallopian Tubal Patency
Authors: Qiang Ye , Wu Yiyun , Cai Ting
Published: January 2021

Objective

To explore the association between Fallopian tubal patency and the slope of the increasing pressure curve for ultrasound contrast agent.

Materials and Methods

A total of 136 patients underwent transvaginal 4‐dimensional hysterosalpingo‐contrast sonography (TVS 4D HyCoSy) between August 2015 and January 2016. We divided the patients into 3 groups according to different Fallopian tubal patency status: 71 patients (48.97%) in bilateral tubal patency group, 45 (31.03%) in unilateral tubal patency group, and 20 in bilateral tubal nonpatent group. The ultrasound contrast agent was injected and the pressure curve was recorded automatically in real time using a liquid‐injecting machine that traces it as a pressure curve. The slopes of the different groups are compared through independent sample t test.

Results

The slopes of the 3 groups were 1.242 ± 0.572, 1.472 ± 0.638, and 2.068 ± 1.236 kPa/s. A correlation was observed between the slope of the increasing pressure curve and tubal patency (R = 0.287, P < .05). The slopes differed significantly between the bilateral tubal patency group and bilateral tubal nonpatent group (P = .001) and between the unilateral tubal patency group and bilateral tubal nonpatent group (P = .012). However, the difference between the bilateral tubal patency and unilateral tubal patency groups was not significant (P = .266).

Conclusion

The increase of the injecting pressure curve's slope for contrast agent during 4D HyCoSy is associated with the nonpatent degree of the tube. This condition can be used as an objective index of tubal patency and can be a reference in diagnosis and treatment.
Risk Factors for and Cost Implications of Free Flap Take‐backs: A Single Institution Review
Authors: Han Mary , Ochoa Edgar , Zhu Bovey , Park Andrea M. , Heaton Chase M. , Seth Rahul , Knott P. Daniel
Published: January 2021

Objective/Hypothesis

For patients undergoing microvascular free tissue transfer (MFTT), we evaluated risk factors and financial implications of operating room (OR) take‐back procedures.

Study Design

Retrospective review at a tertiary care center.

Methods

Patients who underwent MFTT for head and neck reconstruction from 2011 to 2018 were identified. We compared hospital length of stay and overall costs associated with OR take‐back procedures. Multivariable regression analysis evaluated factors associated with OR take‐backs during the same hospitalization.

Results

A total of 727 free flaps were reviewed, and 70 OR take‐backs (9.6%) were identified. Mean total length of stay (LOS) in the ICU was 3.4 days versus 6.7 days for non‐take‐back and take‐back flaps, respectively (P < .001). Mean total LOS on the regular floor was 6.3 days versus 13.1 days, respectively (P < .001). This resulted in a cost differential of $33,507 (94.3% increase relative to non‐take‐back flaps). The total cost associated with an OR take‐back was $39,786. Hematomas were the most common cause of take‐backs and wound dehiscence was associated with the highest costs. On multivariable analysis, higher ASA class (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.11–3.99; P = .026) and shorter ischemia times (OR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.29–0.95; P = .030) were independently associated with increased risk of take‐backs.

Conclusions

OR take‐backs infrequently occur but are associated with a significant increase in financial burden when compared to free flap cases not requiring OR take‐back. The large majority of the cost differential lies in a substantial increase of ICU and floor LOS for take‐back flaps when compared to non‐take‐back flaps.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1821–E1829, 2021
Aerosol generation during routine rhinologic surgeries and in‐office procedures
Authors: Sharma Dhruv , Campiti Vincent J. , Ye Michael J. , Rubel Kolin E. , Higgins Thomas S. , Wu Arthur W. , Shipchandler Taha Z. , Burgin Sarah J. , Sim Michael W. , Illing Elisa A. , Park Jae Hong , Ting Jonathan Y.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Cadaveric simulations have shown endonasal drilling and cautery generate aerosols, which is a significant concern for otolaryngologists during the COVID‐19 era. This study quantifies aerosol generation during routine rhinologic surgeries and in‐office procedures in live patients.

Methods

Aerosols ranging from 0.30 to 10.0 μm were measured in real‐time using an optical particle sizer during surgeries and in‐office procedures. Various mask conditions were tested during rigid nasal endoscopy (RNE) and postoperative debridement (POD).

Results

Higher aerosol concentrations (AC) ranging from 2.69 to 10.0 μm were measured during RNE (n = 9) with no mask vs two mask conditions (P = .002 and P = .017). Mean AC (0.30‐10.0 μm) were significantly higher during POD (n = 9) for no mask vs a mask covering the patient's mouth condition (mean difference = 0.16 ± 0.03 particles/cm3, 95% CI 0.10‐0.22, P < .001). There were no discernible spikes in aerosol levels during endoscopic septoplasty (n = 3). Aerosol spikes were measured in two of three functional endoscopic sinus surgeries (FESS) with microdebrider. Using suction mitigation, there were no discernible spikes during powered drilling in two anterior skull base surgeries (ASBS).

Conclusion

Use of a surgical mask over the patient's mouth during in‐office procedures or a mask with a slit for an endoscope during RNE significantly diminished aerosol generation. However, whether this reduction in aerosol generation is sufficient to prevent transmission of communicable diseases via aerosols was beyond the scope of this study. There were several spikes in aerosols during FESS and ASBS, though none were associated with endonasal drilling with the use of suction mitigation.

Level of Evidence

4.
Building Bridges by Blending: Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Binary Tapered Diblock/Multiblock Copolymer Blends
Authors: Steube Marvin , Plank Martina , Gallei Markus , Frey Holger , Floudas George
Published: January 2021

This work explores the scope and limitations of enhancing the poor mechanical properties of diblock copolymers by blending with tapered multiblock copolymers of styrene (S) and isoprene (I), P(I‐co‐S)n. Blending of different tapered diblock copolymers (n = 1; Mn = 80 and 240 kg mol−1, 50 wt% polyisoprene (PI) units, lamellar morphologies) affords brittle materials with low elongation at break. An increasing degree of phase separation from (i) miscible P(I‐co‐S)/P(I‐co‐S)n copolymer blends, to (ii) partially miscible and (iii) finally immiscible blends is studied. The effect of miscibility on the mechanical properties is studied for two diblock copolymers (Mn = 80 and 240 kg mol−1, domain spacing of 38 and 77 nm, respectively), blended with a series of multiblock copolymers P(I‐co‐S)n (n = 2–5; domain spacing of 42 to 20 nm) of similar molecular weight. Increasing disparity in the domain spacing results in partially miscible and finally immiscible blends. Immiscibility causes lower elongation at break, albeit superior tensile properties compared to the pure tapered diblock copolymers are maintained. The study shows that the addition of a minor fraction of multiblock copolymers to diblock copolymers is a versatile method toward improved mechanical properties, while retaining an ordered nanophase‐separated morphology.
Surjectively rigid chains
Authors: Montalvo‐Ballesteros Mayra , Truss John K.
Published: January 2021

We study rigidity properties of linearly ordered sets (chains) under automorphisms, embeddings, epimorphisms, and endomorphisms. We focus on two main cases: dense subchains of the real numbers, and uncountable dense chains of higher regular cardinalities. We also give a Fraenkel‐Mostowski model which illustrates the role of the axiom of choice in one of the key proofs.
Silencing of UAP1L1 inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Xiao Xiaoxiong , Jiang Lei , Hu Huoli , Huang Yunhe , Yang Lun , Jiao Yang , Wei Guangxia
Published: January 2021

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is recognized as one of the malignant tumors with poor prognosis. UAP1L1 (UDP‐N‐acetylglucosamine‐1‐like‐1) affects numerous biological processes, which is a key regulator of the development of malignant tumors. The biological function and molecular mechanism of UAP1L1 in ESCC were explored in this study. The relationship between UAP1L1 and ESCC was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining, revealing the high expression of UAP1L1 in ESCC. Importantly, the increased expression of UAP1L1 indicated the deterioration of patients’ condition, which has clinical significance. Furthermore, the loss‐of‐function assays demonstrated that knockdown of UAP1L1 inhibited the progression of ESCC on suppressing proliferation, hindering migration, and enhancing apoptosis in vitro. Moreover, the apoptosis of ESCC cells was induced by knockdown of UAP1L1 via regulating a variety of apoptosis‐related proteins, such as upregulation of Bax, CD40, CD40L, Fas, FasL, IGFBP‐6, p21, p27, p53, and SMAC. Additionally, further investigation indicated that UAP1L1 by affecting the PI3K/Akt, CCND1, and MAPK promotes the progression of ESCC. In vivo xenograft model further confirmed that knockdown of UAP1L1 inhibited the development of ESCC. In conclusion, UAP1L1 was involved in the development and progression of ESCC, which may provide a powerful target for future molecular therapies.
Modeling Brain Pathology of Niemann‐Pick Disease Type C Using Patient‐Derived Neurons
Authors: Burbulla Lena F. , Mc Donald Jessica M. , Valdez Clarissa , Gao Fanding , Bigio Eileen H. , Krainc Dimitri
Published: January 2021

Background

Niemann‐Pick disease type C (NPC) is a rare autosomal‐recessive lysosomal storage disease that is also associated with progressive neurodegeneration. NPC shares many pathological features with Alzheimer's disease, including neurofibrillary tangles, axonal spheroids, β‐amyloid deposition, and dystrophic neurites. Here, we examined if these pathological features could be detected in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)‐derived neurons from NPC patients.

Methods

Brain tissues from 8 NPC patients and 5 controls were analyzed for histopathological and biochemical markers of pathology. To model disease in culture, iPSCs from NPC patients and controls were differentiated into cortical neurons.

Results

We found hyperphosphorylated tau, altered processing of amyloid precursor protein, and increased Aβ42 in NPC postmortem brains and in iPSC‐derived cortical neurons from NPC patients.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that the main pathogenic phenotypes typically found in NPC brains were also observed in patient‐derived neurons, providing a useful model for further mechanistic and therapeutic studies of NPC. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
RETRACTED: Genetic structure and forensic characterization of 36 Y‐chromosomal STR loci in Tibeto‐Burman‐speaking Yi population
Authors: Song Zhengyang , Wang Qian , Zhang Han , Tang Jing , Wang Qiyan , Zhang Hongling , Yang Meiqing , Ji Jingyan , Ren Zheng , Wu Yan , Huang Jiang
Published: January 2021

Background

Male‐specifically inherited Y‐STRs have been widely used in population genetics and forensic investigations.

Methods

We genotyped and analyzed Y chromosome haplotypes of 408 unrelated Tibeto‐Burman‐speaking Yi male individuals from Guizhou using Goldeneye® Y‐PLUS kit. Population comparisons between the Guizhou Yi and 67 reference groups were performed via the AMOVA, MDS, and phylogenetic relationship reconstruction.

Results

A total of 389 alleles and 396 haplotypes could be detected, and the allelic frequencies ranged from 0.0025 to 0.9875. The haplotype diversity, random match probability, and discrimination capacity values were 0.9999, 0.0026, and 0.9900, respectively. The gene diversity (GD) of 36 Y‐STR loci in the studied group ranged from 0.0248 (DYS645) to 0.9601 (DYS385a/b). Our newly genotyped Yi samples show a close affinity with other Tibeto‐Burman speaking groups in China and Southeast Asia.

Conclusions

The population stratification was almost consistent with the geographic distribution and language‐family, both among Chinese and worldwide ethnic groups. Our data may provide useful information for paternal lineage in the forensic application and population genetics, as well as evidence for archaeological and historical research.
Dual activating FGFR1 mutations in pediatric pilomyxoid astrocytoma
Authors: Fomchenko Elena I. , Reeves Benjamin C. , Sullivan William , Marks Asher M. , Huttner Anita , Kahle Kristopher T. , Erson‐Omay E. Zeynep
Published: January 2021

Background

Pilomyxoid astrocytomas are an aggressive subtype of astrocytoma, not graded by WHO, frequently located in hypothalamic/chiasmatic region, affecting diencephalic structures, and characterized by shorter survival and high recurrence rates. Pilomyxoid astrocytoma management remains controversial, with pathologic tissue diagnosis and relief of mass effect being the main goals of surgery while avoiding treatment‐related morbidity, including vision loss, panhypopituitarism, and hypothalamic dysfunction. Chemotherapy (typically vincristine and carboplatin) in all pediatric patients and radiation therapy in pediatric patients over 5 years of age are used for treatment.

Methods

We report clinical presentation, surgical management, and whole exome sequencing results in a pediatric patient with the subtotally resected pilomyxoid astrocytoma.

Results

We identified two somatic activating missense mutations affecting FGFR1, including FGFR1 p.K656E and FGFR1 p.V561M. While the former is a known hotspot mutation that is both activating and transforming, the latter has been described as a gatekeeper mutation imparting resistance to FGFR inhibitors. Interestingly, both mutations were present with similar variant allele frequency within the tumor.

Conclusion

Similar variant allele frequencies of FGFR1 p.K656E and FGFR1 p.V561M mutations in our patient's tumor suggest that these mutations may have occurred at similar time points. Use of FGFR inhibitors in addition to STAT3 or PI3K/mTOR inhibition may prove a useful strategy in targeting our patient's pilomyxoid astrocytoma.
Massachusetts law extends protections for virtual behavioral health services
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2021

A patient protection bill Massachusetts state legislators finalized last month ensures that the telehealth services so critical to maintaining continuity of behavioral health care during the COVID‐19 crisis won't amount to a passing fancy.
It's time to refocus support for MH programs that work
Authors: Richardson Jeff
Published: January 2021

With change comes opportunity. As the Biden administration prepares to take over, we have an opportunity to shed light on the needs of people with mental illness and substance use disorders and the programs intended to help that vulnerable population.
California governor: COVID‐19's effects demand major MH response
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2021

Acknowledging the need to address fallout from the COVID‐19 crisis that it says has exacerbated “decades‐long inequalities” for struggling Californians, the administration of California Gov. Gavin Newsom this month released a proposed fiscal 2022 state budget that includes significant investments in mental health care.
Serious distress in first month of COVID‐19 equal to 2019
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2021

The prevalence of psychological distress during the early months of COVID‐19 is equal to the psychological distress among Americans during the entire year prior to the pandemic, according to RAND Corporation researchers. Their study, they said, represents the first longitudinal analysis of psychological distress during the pandemic in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults.
MHA: Better care needed for adults with chronic conditions
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2021

Providers can help patients engage in ongoing conversations about both their physical and mental health conditions and make important care decisions, according to a report released Jan. 12 by Mental Health America (MHA). As adults age, they are more likely to develop multiple chronic conditions, and early intervention and effective care management become even more important, the report stated.
On the reconstruction of material properties of a radially inhomogeneous cylindrical waveguide
Authors: Vatulyan Alexandr Ovanesovich , Yurov Victor Olegovich
Published: January 2021

The scheme of solving the inverse problem (IP) for reconstructing three functions characterizing the radial change in the Lamé parameters and in the density in a cylindrical waveguide is presented. The displacement fields corresponding to three types of loading are used as an additional information for solving the IP. An iterative process is constructed, at each step of which a direct problem is solved for the radially inhomogeneous waveguide, and the corrections to the restored functions are determined. The corrections are identified by solving the system of three Fredholm integral equations of the first kind with smooth kernels. The solution is constructed by the A. N. Tikhonov regularization method. A series of computational experiments was carried out. The role of the initial approximation and the frequency range is discussed.
Quadratic convective transport of Cu‐Al2O3hybrid nanoliquid with Hall current, variable suction, and exponential heat source
Authors: Givi Glory Mary , B Mahanthesh
Published: January 2021

The time‐dependent slip flow and heat transport of the Cu‐Al2O3hybrid nanofluid through a vertical permeable plate with Hall current and variable suction is investigated. An exponential heat source and quadratic convection effects are considered. The dimensionless governing equations are solved analytically using the regular perturbation method. The graph of variation of the different flow fields with respect to the distance from the plate is drawn for the analysis. It is established that the exponential heat source aspect increased the temperature profile while the quadratic convection aspect decreased the temperature profile. The applied magnetic field and nonlinear convection aspects reduce the axial velocity field. The quadratic convection and exponential space‐dependent heat source phenomena are favorable to friction factors. Furthermore, the global heat transfer is increased in the presence of an exponential space dependent heat source and hybrid nanoparticles.
Research progress of single molecule force spectroscopy technology based on atomic force microscopy in polymer materials: Structure, design strategy and probe modification
Authors: Li Shi , Wang Xiao , Li Zhihua , Huang Zhenzhu , Lin Shudong , Hu Jiwen , Tu Yuanyuan
Published: January 2021

With the rapid development of polymer materials, the simultaneous acquisition of micro‐nano structure and mesoscopic mechanical properties from the material surface with the transverse resolution of nanoscale has become a hot spot in the research of polymer materials. Atomic force microscopy‐based high‐resolution imaging and single‐molecule force spectroscopy techniques have been widely used in various related fields. This review introduces the basic design and working principles of atomic force microscopy as well as single‐molecule force microscopy and their applications in the characterization of polymer surface morphologies, polymer film phase separation, polymer crystallization behavior, polymer chain stretching, protein folding/unfolding, G quadruplex intermolecular and intramolecular interactions, living cell surface proteins, and sugars. The research status of AFM probe modification strategies such as nanomaterial processing, single molecule manipulation and biomolecule etching is reviewed, finally, the limitations and improvement potential of single molecule force spectroscopy based on atomic force microscopy (AFM‐ SMFS) are summarized and discussed, and the new research practice in the field of polymer materials is prospected.
Weakly symmetric stress equilibration and a posteriori error estimation for linear elasticity
Authors: Bertrand Fleurianne , Kober Bernhard , Moldenhauer Marcel , Starke Gerhard
Published: January 2021

This paper proposes and analyzes a posteriori error estimator based on stress equilibration for linear elasticity with emphasis on the behavior for (nearly) incompressible materials. It is based on an H(div)‐conforming, weakly symmetric stress reconstruction from the displacement‐pressure approximation computed with a stable finite element pair. Our focus is on the Taylor‐Hood combination of continuous finite element spaces of polynomial degrees k + 1 and k for the displacement and the pressure, respectively. This weak symmetry allows us to prove that the resulting error estimator constitutes a guaranteed upper bound for the error with a constant that depends only on local constants associated with the patches and thus on the shape regularity of the triangulation. It does not involve global constants like those from Korn's in equality which may become very large depending on the location and type of the boundary conditions. Local efficiency, also uniformly in the incompressible limit, is deduced from the upper bound by the residual error estimator. Numerical results for the popular Cook's membrane test problem confirm the theoretical predictions.
Investigating infant feeding strategies at Roman Bainesse through Bayesian modelling of incremental dentine isotopic data
Authors: Cocozza Carlo , Fernandes Ricardo , Ughi Alice , Groß Marcus , Alexander Michelle M.
Published: January 2021

We present the first study employing Bayesian modelling of isotopic measurements on dentine increments (five human upper first molars) to address Romano‐British infant feeding practices at Bainesse (UK). The stable carbon and nitrogen isotope results modelled to 6‐month intervals with novel OsteoBioR software revealed some common patterns, with weaning not starting before the age of 6 months and higher animal protein consumption after the age of seven. The latter possibly indicated a ‘survival’ threshold, evidenced by historical sources and osteological data, hence marking a rise in social status of children. The important role of Bainesse as commercial hub in relation to the fort of Cataractonium does not exclude a priori the possibility that medical treatises and Roman culture were known at the site. However, our results also showed significant intra‐individual differences with weaning cessation taking place between 2 and 5 years, suggesting that these were followed only partially and other aspects influenced family decisions on infant feeding practices in Bainesse.
A new study on flax‐basalt‐carbon fiber reinforced epoxy/bioepoxy hybrid composites
Authors: T. G. Yashas Gowda , A. Vinod , P. Madhu , Kushvaha Vinod , M. R. Sanjay , Siengchin Suchart
Published: January 2021

The present research investigation focuses on the development of flax‐basalt‐carbon fiber reinforced epoxy/bioepoxy hybrid composites under different stacking sequence technique. The composites were fabricated using manual hand lay‐up method and compression molding technique. The specimens were prepared using standard ASTM methods and subjected to various mechanical experimentations such as tensile, flexural, interlaminar shear strength, and impact tests. Water absorption study under distilled water condition, contact angle measurement, thermogravimetric analysis, and surface morphology study using scanning electron microscopy analysis was also performed. From the results obtained, the composites manufactured in the present work can be prospectively utilized in various engineering medium load structural applications.
Rheological investigation of supramolecular physical gels in water/dimethylsulfoxide mixtures by lysine derivatives
Authors: Rangel Euzcateguy Géraldine , Parajua‐Sejil Caroline , Marchal Philippe , Chapron David , Averlant‐Petit Marie‐Christine , Stefan Loïc , Pickaert Guillaume , Durand Alain
Published: January 2021

Two derivatives of lysine were synthesized by acylating the Nα with dodecanoic acid starting from commercial precursors in which the Nε was already acylated by the benzoyloxycarbonyl or o‐chloro‐benzoyloxycarbonyl group. Both derivatives self‐assembled in dimethylsulfoxide/water mixtures (above 40% v/v water) leading to solid‐like formulations. The rheological properties were studied as a function of gelator concentration and solvent composition. From stress sweep experiments it was assumed that the gels consisted of jammed suspensions of mesoscopic clusters formed by self‐assembly processes similar to those at the origin of crystallization. The temporal variation of storage and loss moduli was monitored immediately after mixing over times between 20 and 120 min using isothermal oscillatory rheological experiments. Experimental curves were satisfactorily depicted using previously reported semi‐empirical equations. Both transient evolution and stationary values were consistent with the representation of gels as resulting from the formation, one‐dimensional growth and dynamic arrest of fractal clusters (with fractal dimension between 1.6 and 2.0). The presence of a chlorine atom within the aromatic ring of one of the lysine derivatives induced a significant increase of the gelation time scale and a decrease of rheological moduli. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Advances in butyl rubber synthesis via cationic polymerization: an overview
Authors: Sharma Rakesh K , Mohanty Subhra , Gupta Virendrakumar
Published: January 2021

The global market is anticipated to display considerable growth for synthetic rubber because of superior product properties in comparison to natural rubber. The high volatility in natural rubber prices has been a major driver for the growth of synthetic rubber. Butyl rubber is a type of synthetic rubber mostly used in tyres and tubes, sealants, adhesives, protective clothes, pharmaceutical stoppers and closures, etc. The growing demand for butyl rubber in the automobile, construction and healthcare sectors has attracted researchers to explore various types of cationic co‐initiators. Cationic initiating systems play a vital role in controlling polymer microstructure, molecular weight, unsaturation content, etc. The present review covers numerous developments in the field of cationic copolymerization of isobutylene and isoprene. The review summarizes the chemistry of initiating systems based on boron, aluminium, aluminoxane, zinc, metallocenes and rare earth metals. It also gives brief information about the commercial process (slurry and solution) and structural characterization of butyl rubber. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Patient Sleep Quality in Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation
Authors: Davis Shane M. , Mekany Majid , Kim Jeff J. , Han Jay J.
Published: January 2021

Background

Sleep is an important component of neurorehabilitation. This study evaluates sleep quality in the acute inpatient rehabilitation setting and is the first to compare sleep quality in acute rehabilitation versus the acute care hospital and home settings.

Objective

To assess patient sleep quality in the acute inpatient rehabilitation setting.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey study.

Setting

Acute inpatient rehabilitation unit.

Patients

Seventy‐three patients admitted to the acute rehabilitation unit participated in the study.

Interventions

A validated sleep questionnaire was provided on admission regarding sleep at home and in the acute care hospital. The questionnaire was repeated on discharge from the acute rehabilitation unit regarding sleep during their rehabilitation admission.

Main Outcome Measures

Visual analog scale of sleep depth, falling asleep, number of awakenings, percentage of time awake, and quality of sleep were obtained through use of the Richards‐Campbell Sleep Questionnaire. These values were averaged to obtain “overall sleep perception.” An additional question on environmental noise was added. Scores ranged from 0 for “worst sleep possible” to 100 for “best sleep possible.”

Results

Patients reported significantly better sleep in all domains and overall in the acute rehabilitation unit compared to the acute care hospital, with the exception of percentage of time awake. Patients also reported significantly better sleep depth but worse noise in the acute rehabilitation unit when compared to home. Similarly, patients reported significantly better sleep in all domains and overall at home in comparison to the acute care hospital with the exception of percentage of time awake.

Conclusions

Patient in the acute rehabilitation unit experience sleep quality that matches their experience at home and exceeds that in the hospital.
Physical aging of polystyrene blocks under three‐dimensional soft confinement in PS‐b‐poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) diblock copolymer: Two equilibrations on the way
Authors: Ma Mingchao , Guo Yunlong
Published: January 2021

Polystyrene‐block‐poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) (PS‐b‐PnBMA) was used to investigate three‐dimensional (3D) soft confinement effect on physical aging of the PS block therein. The soft confinement is constructed by phase‐separated PnBMA domains, as PnBMA is liquid on the aging temperatures of PS blocks due to its low glass transition temperature. In enthalpy recovery, aging response of PS blocks is represented by a low and broad heat capacity peak associated with an enhanced aging rate with respect to homo‐PS, when the aging temperature is relatively low. However, the aging response exhibits opposite characteristics at relatively high temperatures, compared with the results of homo‐PS. The phase‐separated morphology and thus the soft confinement on PS blocks was confirmed by atomic force microscope imaging using the Peak Force quantitative nanomechanical mapping (QNM) technique. Two local maximums of recovered enthalpy versus aging temperature indicate that two equilibration processes exist during aging of confined PS blocks, within a substantially shorter timescale to the bulk. The 3D soft confinement effect on aging of PS blocks is attributed to dual equilibration mechanisms: one dominates at higher aging temperatures, leading to a restrained aging rate, while the other plays a key role at lower aging temperatures, resulting in accelerated physical aging.
Measuring quality of life and identifying what is important to Jordanian living with multiple sclerosis using the Arabic version of the patient‐generated index
Authors: Aburub Ala’ S. , Khalil Hanan , Al‐Sharman Alham , El‐Salem Khalid
Published: January 2021

Background

Patient‐generated index (PGI) is one of the individualized measures used to measure the quality of life (QOL) in people with different chronic conditions including multiple sclerosis (MS). However, the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the PGI have not been fully established in Jordanian living with MS. Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify what matters to Jordanian living with MS and to contribute evidence toward the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the PGI.

Methods

A total of 75 participants with MS completed three QOL measures; PGI, the patient determined disease steps (PDDS), and EQ‐5D. Generalized estimating equations were used to compare the total score of three QOL measures. Bland–Altman plot and Spearman's correlation coefficient were used to study the relationships and differences between the PGI and the other study measures (PDDS and EQ‐5D).

Results

Only 66 (88%) of the participants were able to complete the PGI. Overall, 36 areas of QOL concern were nominated by the participants using the PGI with the top three areas were emotional function (47%), involuntary movement reaction functions (45.5%), and walking (44 %). The average global score of the PGI was lower (34 ± 22) than the global score of the EQ‐5D (69 ± 23), and the PDDS (68 ± 24). PGI had a moderate correlation with EQ‐5D and PPDS.

Conclusion

The Arabic version of the PGI is a feasible, acceptable, and valid measure among Jordanians with MS. PGI also captures more important areas that contribute to QOL than EQ‐5D and PDDS. PGI could improve the decision making and guide healthcare professionals to provide appropriate intervention programs to reduce the burdens from MS disease and improve QOL.