bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No need for secondary Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia prophylaxis in adult people living with HIV from Europe on ART with suppressed viraemia and a CD4 cell count greater than 100 cells/µL
Authors: Atkinson Andrew , Miro Jose M. , Mocroft Amanda , Reiss Peter , Kirk Ole , Morlat Philippe , Ghosn Jade , Stephan Christoph , Mussini Cristina , Antoniadou Anastasia , Doerholt Katja , Girardi Enrico , De Wit Stéphane , Kraus David , Zwahlen Marcel , Furrer Hansjakob ,   the Opportunistic Infections Working Group of the Collaboration of Observational HIV Epidemiological Research Europe (COHERE) study in EuroCOORD
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Since the beginning of the HIV epidemic in resource‐rich countries, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PjP) is one of the most frequent opportunistic AIDS‐defining infections. The Collaboration of Observational HIV Epidemiological Research Europe (COHERE) has shown that primary Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PjP) prophylaxis can be safely withdrawn in patients with CD4 counts of 100 to 200 cells/µL if plasma HIV‐RNA is suppressed on combination antiretroviral therapy. Whether this holds true for secondary prophylaxis is not known, and this has proved difficult to determine due to the much lower population at risk.

Methods

We estimated the incidence of secondary PjP by including patient data collected from 1998 to 2015 from the COHERE cohort collaboration according to time‐updated CD4 counts, HIV‐RNA and use of PjP prophylaxis in persons >16 years of age. We fitted a Poisson generalized additive model in which the smoothed effect of CD4 was modelled by a restricted cubic spline, and HIV‐RNA was stratified as low (<400), medium (400 to 10,000) or high (>10,000copies/mL).

Results

There were 373 recurrences of PjP during 74,295 person‐years (py) in 10,476 patients. The PjP incidence in the different plasma HIV‐RNA strata differed significantly and was lowest in the low stratum. For patients off prophylaxis with CD4 counts between 100 and 200 cells/µL and HIV‐RNA below 400 copies/mL, the incidence of recurrent PjP was 3.9 (95% CI: 2.0 to 5.8) per 1000 py, not significantly different from patients on prophylaxis in the same stratum (1.9, 95% CI: 0.1 to 3.7).

Conclusions

HIV viraemia importantly affects the risk of recurrent PjP. In virologically suppressed patients on ART with CD4 counts of 100 to 200/µL, the incidence of PjP off prophylaxis is below 10/1000 py. Secondary PjP prophylaxis may be safely withheld in such patients. While European guidelines recommend discontinuing secondary PjP prophylaxis only if CD4 counts rise above 200 cells/mL, the latest US Guidelines consider secondary prophylaxis discontinuation even in patients with a CD4 count above 100 cells/µL and suppressed viral load. Our results strengthen and support this US recommendation.
Phase 1 pharmacokinetics and safety study of extended duration dapivirine vaginal rings in the United States
Authors: Liu Albert Y , Dominguez Islas Clara , Gundacker Holly , Neradilek Blazej , Hoesley Craig , van der Straten Ariane , Hendrix Craig W , Beamer May , Jacobson Cindy E , McClure Tara , Harrell Tanya , Bunge Katherine , Devlin Brid , Nuttall Jeremy , Spence Patrick , Steytler John , Piper Jeanna M , Marzinke Mark A ,   the MTN‐036/IPM 047 Protocol Team for the Microbicide Trials Network
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Vaginal rings are a promising approach to provide a woman‐centred, long‐acting HIV prevention strategy. Prior trials of a 25 mg dapivirine (DPV) ring have shown a favourable safety profile and approximately 30% risk reduction of HIV‐1 infection. Extended duration rings replaced every three months may encourage user adherence, improve health service efficiency and reduce cost overall. We evaluated safety, pharmacokinetics, adherence and acceptability of two three‐month rings with different DPV dosages, compared with the monthly DPV ring.

Methods

From December 2017 to October 2018, MTN‐036/IPM‐047 enrolled 49 HIV‐negative participant in Birmingham, Alabama and San Francisco, California into a phase 1, randomized trial comparing two extended duration (three‐month) rings (100 or 200 mg DPV) to a monthly 25 mg DPV ring, each used over 13 weeks, with follow‐up completed in January 2019. Safety was assessed by recording adverse events (AEs). DPV concentrations were quantified in plasma, cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) and cervical tissue, at nominal timepoints. Geometric mean ratios (GMRs) relative to the comparator ring were estimated from a regression model.

Results

There were no differences in the proportion of participants with grade ≥2 genitourinary AEs or grade ≥3 AEs in the extended duration versus monthly ring arms (p = 1.0). Plasma and CVF DPV concentrations were higher in the extended duration rings compared to the monthly ring. Plasma GMRs were 1.31 to 1.85 and 1.41 to 1.86 and CVF GMRs were 1.45 to 2.87 and 1.74 to 2.60 for the 100 and 200 mg ring respectively. Cervical tissue concentrations were consistently higher in the 200 mg ring (GMRs 2.36 to 3.97). The majority of participants (82%) were fully adherent (ring inserted at all times, with no product discontinuations/outages) with no differences between the monthly versus three‐month rings. Most participants found the ring acceptable (median = 8 on 10‐point Likert scale), with a greater proportion of participants reporting high acceptability (9 or 10) in the 25 mg arm (73%) compared with the 100 mg (25%) and 200 mg (44%) arms (p = 0.01 and p = 0.15 respectively).

Conclusions

The extended duration DPV rings were well‐tolerated and achieved higher DPV concentrations compared with the monthly DPV ring. These findings support further evaluation of three‐month DPV rings for HIV prevention.
Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping for Staging Acute Cerebral Hemorrhages: Comparing the Conventional and Multiecho Complex Total Field Inversion magnetic resonance imaging MR Methods
Authors: Champagne Allen A. , Wen Yan , Selim Magdy , Filippidis Aristotelis , Thomas Ajith J. , Spincemaille Pascal , Wang Yi , Soman Salil
Published: June 2021

Background

The perceived acuity of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) impacts the management of patients, both within emergent and outpatient/urgent settings. Morphology enabled dipole inversion (MEDI) quantitative susceptibility imaging (QSM) has improved characterization of ICH acuity, despite outstanding limitations in distinguishing blood products.

Purpose/Hypothesis

Using improved susceptibility quantification, novel postprocessing QSM method from multiecho complex total field inversion (mcTFI) may better discriminate between acute and subacute ICH, compared to MEDI.

Study Type

Retrospective cohort study.

Subjects

A total of 121 subjects enrolled following positive computerized tomography (CT) findings for ICH. Subjects were grouped based on time between admission and MR imaging: hyperacute (<24 hours), acute (1–3 days), early subacute (3–7 days), and late subacute (7–18 days).

Field Strength/Sequence

A multiecho gradient echo sequence at 3.0 T was paired with clinical noncontrast CT imaging.

Assessment

A quantitative index (CTindex) was derived based on relative intensities of blood on noncontrast CT. All images were co‐registered, from which QSM parameters within the ICH area were assessed across groups, as well as the correlation with CTindex.

Statistical Tests

Group differences were assessed using ANOVAs. Linear regressions between the CTindex, MEDI, and mcTFI measurements were used to assess their relationships. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

A total of 21 hyperacute, 72 acute, 21 early subacute, and 7 late‐subacute patients were included in this analysis. Significant changes in blood susceptibility were found over time for the MEDI and mcTFI, although mcTFI better differentiated the hyperacute/acute from subacute stages. CTindex values within the ICH were more strongly correlated with mcTFI QSM (r = 0.727) than MEDI (r = 0.412) QSM.

Data conclusion

McTFI susceptibility estimation demonstrated better correlation with ICH acuity as suggested by CT, providing an improved method to assess acuity of intracranial blood products in clinical settings to identify cases that may require acute intervention.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Gender Differences in Traumatic Experiences and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms After the Rwandan Genocide Against the Tutsi
Authors: Platt Jonathan M. , Pozen Joanna , Ntaganira Joseph , Sezibera Vincent , Neugebauer Richard
Published: June 2021

The effects of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide against the Tutsi are widespread and long‐lasting, but little is known about how posttraumatic consequences differ regarding gender. In the present study, we estimated the associations between trauma exposure and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in a Rwandan community sample and examined whether the associations differed by gender. The sample comprised 498 adults (75.2% women) living in Rwanda's Huye District in 2011. We used a validated self‐report checklist to assess the eight most frequent traumatic experiences during the Genocide. The PTSD Checklist–Civilian version (PCL‐C) was used to assess PTSS. Associations between trauma exposure and PTSS were estimated using structural equation modeling (SEM), with additional SEMs stratified by gender. The prevalence of exposure to each traumatic event ranged from 15.1% to 64.5%, with more severe PTSS among individuals who reported personal physical injury, β = .76, 95% CI [0.54, 0.98]; witnessing sexual/physical violence against a loved one, β = .51, 95% CI [0.20, 0.81]; a close relative/friend's death, β = .54, 95% CI [0.24, 0.83]; property destruction, β = .35, 95% CI [0.048, 0.51]; or a family member's death due to illness, β = .21, 95% CI [0.00, 0.41]. Men who saw people killed and women who witnessed sexual/physical violence against a close family member reported elevated PTSS. The psychiatric impact of the Rwandan Genocide continues into the 21st century. Increased attention should be paid to the long‐term and demographic patterns of distress and disorder, especially in the absence of widespread clinical mental health services.
Impact of Adjuvant Medical Therapies on Surgical Outcomes in Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis
Authors: Hoffman Matthew R. , Patro Ankita , Huang Li‐Ching , Chen Sheau‐Chiann , Berry Lynn D. , Gelbard Alexander , Francis David O. ,   North American Airway Collaborative
Published: June 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Adjuvant medications including proton pump inhibitors (PPI), antibiotics (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole [TMP‐SMX]), and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) may be prescribed for patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS). We describe medication use with endoscopic dilation (ED) or endoscopic resection with medical treatment (ERMT) and evaluate impact on outcomes.

Study Design

International, prospective, 3‐year multicenter cohort study of 810 patients with untreated, newly diagnosed, or previously treated iSGS.

Methods

Post hoc secondary analysis of prospectively collected North American Airway Collaborative data on outcomes linked with adjuvant medication utilization. Primary outcome was time to recurrent operation, evaluated using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. Secondary outcomes of change in peak expiratory flow (PEF) and clinical chronic obstructive pulmonary disease questionnaire (CCQ) score over 12 months were compared.

Results

Sixty‐one of 129 patients undergoing ED received PPI (47%), and 10/143 patients undergoing ED received ICS (7%). TMP‐SMX was used by 87/115 patients (76%) undergoing EMRT. PPI use in the ED group did not affect time to recurrence (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.53–1.88; P = .99) or 12‐month change in PEF (L/min) (median [interquartile range], 12.0 [10.7–12.2] vs. 8.7 [−5.1 to 24.9]; P = .59), but was associated with 12‐month change in CCQ (−0.05 [−0.97 to 0.75] vs. −0.50 [−1.60 to 0.20]; P = .04). ICS did not affect outcome measures. TMP‐SMX use in ERMT did not affect time to recurrence (HR = 0.842, 95% CI: 0.2345–3.023; P = .79), PEF at 12 months (75 [68–89] vs. 81 [68–89]; P = .92), or 12‐month change in CCQ (0.20 [−1.05 to 0.47] vs. −0.30 [−1.00 to 0.10]; P = .45).

Conclusion

There is no standard practice for prescribing adjuvant medications. These data do not support that adjuvant medications prolong time to recurrence or increase PEF. Patients with iSGS and gastroesophageal reflux disease may experience some symptom benefit with PPI.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:E2880–E2886, 2021
Nutrient and temperature constraints on primary production and net phytoplankton growth in a tropical ecosystem
Authors: López‐Sandoval Daffne C. , Duarte Carlos M. , Agustí Susana
Published: June 2021

The Red Sea depicts a north–south gradient of positively correlated temperature and nutrient concentration. Despite its overall oligotrophic characteristics, primary production rates in the Red Sea vary considerably. In this study, based on five cruises and a 2‐year time series (2016–2018) sampling in the Central Red Sea, we determined phytoplankton photosynthetic rates (PP) by using 13C as a tracer and derived phytoplankton net growth rates (μ) and chlorophyll a (Chl a)‐normalized photosynthesis (PB). Our results indicate a ninefold variation (14–125 mgC m−2 h−1) in depth‐integrated primary production and reveal a marked seasonality in PP, PB, and μ. Depth‐integrated PP remained <30 mg C m−2 h−1 during spring and summer, and peaked in autumn–winter, particularly in the southernmost stations (~17°N). In surface waters, phytoplankton grew at a slow rate (0.2 ± 0.02 d−1), with the population doubling every 3.5 days, on average. However, during the autumn–winter period, when Chl a concentrations peaked in the central and southern regions, μ increased to values between 0.60 and 0.84 d−1, while PB reached its maximum rate (7.8 mgC [mg Chl a]−1 h−1). We used path analysis to resolve direct vs. indirect components between correlations. Our results show that nutrient availability modulates the photosynthetic performance and growth of phytoplankton communities and that PB and μ fluctuations are not directly associated with temperature changes. Our study suggests that similarly to other oligotrophic warm seas, phosphorus concentration exerts a key role in defining photosynthetic rates and the biomass levels of phytoplankton communities in the region.
Simons Collaborative Marine Atlas Project (Simons CMAP): An open‐source portal to share, visualize, and analyze ocean data
Authors: Ashkezari Mohammad D. , Hagen Norland R. , Denholtz Michael , Neang Andrew , Burns Tansy C. , Morales Rhonda L. , Lee Charlotte P. , Hill Christopher N. , Armbrust E. Virginia
Published: June 2021

Simons Collaborative Marine Atlas Project (Simons CMAP) is an open‐source data portal that interconnects large, complex, and diverse public data sets currently dispersed in different formats across different Oceanography discipline‐specific databases. Simons CMAP is designed to streamline the retrieval of custom subsets of data, the generation of data visualizations, and the analyses of diverse data, thus expanding the power of these potentially underutilized data sets for cross‐disciplinary studies of ocean processes. We describe a unified architecture that allows numerical model outputs, satellite products, and field observations to be readily shared, mined, and integrated regardless of data set size or resolution. A current focus of Simons CMAP is integration of physical, chemical, and biological data sets essential for characterizing the biogeography of key marine microbes across ocean basins and seasonal cycles. Using a practical example, we demonstrate how our unifying data harmonization plans significantly simplifies and allows for systematic data integration across all Simons CMAP data sets.
Breaking Acoustic Limit of Optical Focusing Using Photoacoustic‐Guided Wavefront Shaping
Authors: Gao Rongkang , Xu Zhiqiang , Song Liang , Liu Chengbo
Published: June 2021

Optical wavefront shaping (WFS) has been demonstrated as a powerful tool for focusing light in opaque scattering media. Photoacoustic (PA)‐guided WFS, in particular, has raised a lot of interest because of its non‐invasive approach of light focusing by utilizing endogenous optical absorption information inside complex samples. In general, the optical focus after PA‐guided WFS is limited by the focus of the ultrasound transducer. To date, a number of approaches have been developed to tackle this problem, allowing a sub‐acoustic focal spot to be achieved deep within scattering samples. This review introduces these developments in PA‐guided WFS, highlighting their fundamental principles as well as their merits and limitations. Furthermore, the rules that govern the optical focusing ability of PA‐guided WFS are provided, and the outlook and remaining challenges for future advances are discussed. These insights will facilitate further breakthroughs in PA‐guided WFS.
Interleukin‐10 and Transforming Growth Factor‐β Cytokines Decrease Immune Activation During Normothermic Ex Vivo Machine Perfusion of the Rat Liver
Authors: Carlson Kristin N. , Pavan‐Guimaraes Juliana , Verhagen Joshua C. , Chlebeck Peter , Verhoven Bret , Jennings Heather , Najmabadi Feridoon , Liu Yongjun , Burlingham William , Capitini Christian M. , Al‐Adra David P.
Published: June 2021

Normothermic ex vivo liver perfusion (NEVLP) is a novel system for organ preservation that may improve over static cold storage clinically and offers the chance for graft modification prior to transplantation. Although recent studies have shown the presence of inflammatory molecules during perfusion, none have yet shown the effects of NEVLP on liver‐resident immune cell activation. We investigated the effects of NEVLP on liver‐resident immune cell activation and assessed the ability of anti‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin 10 (IL10) and transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) to improve organ function and reduce immune activation during perfusion. Rat livers were perfused for 4 hours at 37°C with or without the addition of 20 ng/mL of each IL10 and TGF‐β (n = 7). Naïve and cold storage (4 hours at 4°C) livers served as controls (n = 4). Following preservation, gene expression profiles were assessed through single‐cell RNA sequencing; dendritic cell and macrophage activation was measured by flow cytometry; and cytokine production was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. NEVLP induced a global inflammatory gene expression signature, most notably in liver‐resident macrophages and dendritic cells, which was accompanied by an increase in cell‐surface levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) II, CD40, and CD86. Immune activation was partially ameliorated by IL10 and TGF‐β treatment, but no changes were observed in inflammatory cytokine production. Overall levels of liver damage and cellular apoptosis from perfusion were low, and liver function was improved with IL10 and TGF‐β treatment. This is the first study to demonstrate that liver‐resident immune cells gain an activated phenotype during NEVLP on both the gene and protein level and that this activation can be reduced through therapeutic intervention with IL10 and TGF‐β.
A Review: Optimization for Poly(glycerol sebacate) and Fabrication Techniques for Its Centered Scaffolds
Authors: Wu Zebin , Jin Kaixiang , Wang Lizhen , Fan Yubo
Published: June 2021

Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), an emerging promising thermosetting polymer synthesized from sebacic acid and glycerol, has attracted considerable attention due to its elasticity, biocompatibility, and tunable biodegradation properties. But it also has some drawbacks such as harsh synthesis conditions, rapid degradation rates, and low stiffness. To overcome these challenges and optimize PGS performance, various modification methods and fabrication techniques for PGS‐based scaffolds have been developed in recent years. Outlining the current modification approaches of PGS and summarizing the fabrication techniques for PGS‐based scaffolds are of great importance to accelerate the development of new materials and enable them to be appropriately used in potential applications. Thus, this review comprehensively overviews PGS derivatives, PGS composites, PGS blends, processing for PGS‐based scaffolds, and their related applications. It is envisioned that this review could instruct and inspire the design of the PGS‐based materials and facilitate tissue engineering advances into clinical practice.
Enhanced Eradication of Mucin‐Embedded Bacterial Biofilm by Locally Delivered Antibiotics in Functionalized Microcontainers
Authors: Birk Stine Egebro , Serioli Laura , Cavallo Valentina , Haagensen Janus Anders Juul , Molin Søren , Nielsen Line Hagner , Zór Kinga , Boisen Anja
Published: June 2021

Bacterial biofilm‐related infections are difficult to eradicate and require repeated treatments with high doses of antibiotics. Thus, there is an urgent need for new treatment strategies that minimize the use of antibiotics while enhancing biofilm eradication. Functionalized reservoir‐based microdevices, such as, microcontainers (MCs), offer, high drug loading capacity, mucus embedment, and tuneable drug release. Here, MCs are loaded with the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP), and sealed with a lid consisting of chitosan (CHI) and a mucolytic agent, N‐acetylcysteine (NAC). It is found that CHI and NAC work synergistically, showing improved mucoadhesive and mucolytic properties. To better mimic the in vivo habitat of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), the biofilm is grown in a mucin‐containing medium on a newly developed centrifugal microfluidic system. The CHI/NAC coated MCs improve eradication of biofilm (88.22 ± 2.89%) compared to CHI‐coated MCs (72.68 ± 3.73%) or bolus injection (39.86 ± 13.28%). The findings suggest that MCs are significantly more efficient than a bolus treatment. Furthermore, CHI/NAC functionalized MCs kill most of the biomass already after 5 h (80.75 ± 3.50%), mainly due to a fast drug release. This is the first time that CHI/NAC has been combined as a coating to explore mucolytic properties on bacterial biofilms.
Silk Biomaterials for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ding Zhaozhao , Cheng Weinan , Mia Md Shipan , Lu Qiang
Published: June 2021

Silk is a natural fibrous polymer with application potential in regenerative medicine. Increasing interest remains for silk materials in bone tissue engineering due to their characteristics in biocompatibility, biodegradability and mechanical properties. Plenty of the in vitro and in vivo studies confirmed the advantages of silk in accelerating bone regeneration. Silk is processed into scaffolds, hydrogels, and films to facilitate different bone regenerative applications. Bioactive factors such as growth factors and drugs, and stem cells are introduced to silk‐based matrices to create friendly and osteogenic microenvironments, directing cell behaviors and bone regeneration. The recent progress in silk‐based bone biomaterials is discussed and focused on different fabrication and functionalization methods related to osteogenesis. The challenges and potential targets of silk bone materials are highlighted to evaluate the future development of silk‐based bone materials.
Blends of Bio‐Based Poly(Limonene Carbonate) with Commodity Polymers
Authors: Neumann Simon , Hu Pin , Bretschneider Felix , Schmalz Holger , Greiner Andreas
Published: June 2021

In this study, blends of the bio‐based poly(limonene carbonate) (PLimC) with different commodity polymers are investigated in order to explore the potential of PLimC toward generating more sustainable polymer materials by reducing the amount of petro‐ or food‐based polymers. PLimC is employed as minority component in the blends. Next to the morphology and thermal properties of the blends the impact of PLimC on the mechanical properties of the matrix polymers is studied. The interplay of incompatibility and zero‐shear melt viscosity contrast determines the blend morphology, leading for all blends to a dispersed droplet morphology for PLimC. Blends with polymers of similar structure to PLimC (i.e., aliphatic/aromatic polyester) show the best performance with respect to mechanical properties, whereas blends with polystyrene or poly(methyl methacrylate) are too brittle and polyamide 12 blends show very low elongations at break. In blends with Ecoflex (poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)) and Arnitel EM400 (copoly(ether ester)) with poly(butylene terephthalate) hard and polytetrahydrofuran soft segments) a threefold increase in E‐modulus can be achieved, while keeping the elongation at break at reasonable high values of ≈200%, making these blends highly interesting for applications.
Nanoporous Membranes Prepared from Homogeneous Lamellar Structure Developed via Biaxial Melt‐Drawing of Ultra‐High Molecular Weight Polyethylene/Normal Molecular Weight Polyethylene Blend Films
Authors: Tanaka Hidekazu , Takazawa Ayaka , Kakiage Masaki , Yamanobe Takeshi , Uehara Hiroki
Published: June 2021

Biaxial melt‐drawing of blend films composed of ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene and normal molecular weight polyethylene produced a unique network structure consisting of 30‐nm thick homogeneous folded chain crystals. Subsequent biaxial solid‐drawing produced a nanoporous structure covering a large area of the membrane surface (120 mm × 120 mm). Effects of preparation parameters, including annealing and subsequent solid‐drawing, on resultant nanoporous morphology are also testified to achieve the desirable membrane. The higher gas permeability coefficients of the nanoporous membranes indicate that these nanopores are interconnected along the thickness direction. Despite such excellent porosity, the tensile strength reached 30 MPa, which is similar to that for the initial non‐porous film. Consistence of membrane porousness and robustness is highly desirable for various separation applications, including filtration, water purification, dialysis, and lithium‐ion batteries.
Facile Construction of Zn2+‐Carboxyl Salt‐Bonding as Sacrificial Unit in EPDM Rubber toward Mechanical and Sealing Resilience Performance Enhancement
Authors: Li Chengjie , Yuan Zun , Ye Lin
Published: June 2021

In view of the facile reaction between carboxyl groups and zinc oxide (ZnO), Zn2+‐carboxyl salt‐bonding is constructed in ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber system by grafting reaction of glutamic acid (Glu), serving as sacrificial unit endowed EPDM‐g‐Glu/ZnO sample with excellent reprocessing and recycling ability. Through reaction of ZnO/methacrylic acid (MAA), EPDM‐g‐Glu/zinc dimethacrylate (ZDMA) composite is further prepared by in situ formation of ZDMA, and ZDMA is rapidly polymerized to form poly‐ZDMA (PZDMA) containing massive Zn2+‐carboxyl ion pairs once vulcanized, which exhibits fuzzy interface with the matrix. Relative to EPDM/ZDMA, the higher polymerization degree of ZDMA is achieved with the reduction of the size of PZDMA clusters, demonstrating the improvement of interfacial bonding, which results in the formation of a developed crosslinking network structure for EPDM‐g‐Glu/ZDMA. The mechanical strength, fracture toughness, and hysteresis loss of EPDM‐g‐Glu/ZDMA‐40% show a significant increase in comparison with EPDM/CB‐40% and EPDM/ZDMA‐40%, meanwhile the relatively lower compression set and slower contact stress relaxation are achieved by energy dissipation mechanism of preferential rupture of Zn2+‐carboxyl salt‐bonding before breakage of covalent bonds during compression aging process, revealing the effective enhancement of durable sealing resilience performance.
Flexible Inserts for Injection Molding of Complex Micro‐Structured Polymer Components
Authors: Hamilton Alex , Perris Jack , Convery Neil , Mulvihill Daniel M. , Gadegaard Nikolaj
Published: June 2021

Mass production of microfluidic devices commonly relies on injection molding. Injection molding requires a master surface made using micro or nanofabrication. Conventionally, electroplating from a silicon master is used for mold insert production, but this is expensive and cannot be used with masters produced via the Bosch process as interlocking of the scalloping between polymer and metal insert hinders part ejection. Here, an alternative to the electroplating process is developed by adapting a nanoimprint route to produce flexible micro‐structured polymer inserts capable of molding using a Bosch process‐produced master. An optimized fabrication approach using silicon masters with smooth sidewalls (produced using the mixed process) is used to characterize the limits of the process. Aspect ratios of 1 and below are successfully replicated. Feature spacings down to 20 µm are successfully produced with minimal variation between repeated parts. Masters produced using two different Bosch etches exhibiting both coarse and fine nanometer scalloping are also studied. Parts are successfully ejected with retained nanometer scalloping in all samples although inlay damage occurred after >10 replicas. A proof‐of‐concept microfluidic device is successfully produced vindicating the use of this approach as an efficient and cost‐effective approach for the rapid prototyping of complex micro‐structured designs.
Biocompatible Catechol‐Functionalized Cellulose‐Based Adhesives with Strong Water Resistance
Authors: Tang Zuwu , Bian Shuai , Lin Zewei , Xiao He , Zhang Min , Liu Kai , Li Xiuliang , Du Bihui , Huang Liulian , Chen Lihui , Ni Yonghao , Wu Hui
Published: June 2021

Numerous traditional adhesives have good adhesion in dry environments. However, non‐environmental‐friendliness and poor water resistance largely limit their practical applications. To prepare biocompatible adhesives with strong water resistance and adhesion strength, in this paper, catechol‐functionalized cellulose‐based adhesive polymers are synthesized by grafting N‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenethyl)methacrylamide and methyl methacrylate onto cellulose chain through atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The successful synthesis of the catechol‐functionalized cellulose‐based adhesive polymers is confirmed by FTIR and 1H NMR. The different characteristics of the adhesive polymers, such as thermal stability, swelling ratio, biocompatibility, and adhesion strength are investigated. Strong water resistance on various substrates is realized in underwater environment for the catechol‐functionalized cellulose‐based adhesive with addition of Fe3+. The adhesion strength and thermal stability are enhanced when the catechol content is increased. The adhesive with catechol content of 25.4% shows the adhesion strength of 0.45 MPa for iron substrate in underwater environment. In addition, the adhesive with addition of Fe3+ exhibits excellent adhesion in dry environment, with maximum adhesion strength of 3.50 MPa for iron substrate. The cell culture test shows that the adhesive polymers have excellent biocompatibility. The biocompatible adhesives with strong water resistance have potential application in electronic, wood, and building fields.
Synergistic Flame Retardant Effects of Carbon Nanotube‐Based Multilayer Nanocoatings
Authors: Kim Jinhong , Jang Junho , Yun Sehui , Kim Hyeon Deok , Byun You Young , Park Yong Tae , Song Jung Il , Cho Chungyeon
Published: June 2021

In an effort to develop highly functionalized flame retardant materials, hybrid nanocoatings are prepared by alternately depositing a positively charged polyaniline (PANi) and negatively charged montmorillonite (MMT) using the layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly technique. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are employed in polymer nanocomposites as effective reinforcement, where nanotubes are stabilized in MMT aqueous solution. The 3D structure and high density of CNTs deposited in the PANi/CNTs‐MMT multilayers produce thicker and heavier coatings in comparison to the LbL assemblies without CNTs. Vertical and horizontal flame testing show that the incorporation of CNTs improves fire resistance. Additionally, cone calorimetry reveals that stacking two nanomaterials (MMT and CNTs) in a single coating shows a significant reduction in peak heat release rate (up to 51%), total smoke release (up to 47%), and total heat release (up to 37%) for the polyurethane foam. The enhancement of flame retardancy is attributed to a synergistic effect; MMT serves as a physical barrier that retards the diffusion of heat and gas. The addition of CNTs strengthens the thermal stability and high char yield. These results, coupled with the simplicity with which the LbL deposition is applied, present a viable alternative to halogen‐free flame retardant nanocoatings to natural and synthetic fibers.
Nanomaterials for 3D Printing of Polymers via Stereolithography: Concept, Technologies, and Applications
Authors: Palucci Rosa Raphael , Rosace Giuseppe
Published: June 2021

Stereolithography (SLA) is an additive manufacturing method with one of the highest accuracies (down to 100 nm) of all solid freeform techniques and has been used in various areas, such as medicine, automotive, aerospace, electronics, and others. However, most resins available nowadays are derived from petroleum. Its toxicity, low biocompatibility, and growing environmental concerns are limiting its application. This review discusses the development of biobased and biocompatible materials for different SLA processes as well as the usage of nanocomposites to increase their applicability. A comprehensive overview of the SLA technologies, photopolymerization chemistry, and resin properties are also provided. Finally, various examples using different types of materials are explored, to show the current and future capabilities of the SLA technique.
A remark on global strong solution of two‐dimensional inhomogeneous nematic liquid crystal flows in a bounded domain
Authors: Zhong Xin
Published: June 2021

We study an initial boundary value problem of two‐dimensional (2D) inhomogeneous incompressible nematic liquid crystal flows with nonnegative density. It is proved that there exists a unique global strong solution provided that the initial orientation satisfies a geometric condition.
Tensor norms on ordered normed spaces, polarization constants, and exchangeable distributions
Authors: Janson Svante
Published: June 2021

We define new norms for symmetric tensors over ordered normed spaces; these norms are defined by considering linear combinations of tensor products or powers of positive elements only. Relations between the different norms are studied. The results are applied to the problem of representing a finitely exchangeable distribution as a mixture of powers, i.e., mixture of distributions of i.i.d. sequences, using a signed mixing measure.
Noncommutative pointwise convergence of orthogonal expansions of several variables
Authors: Pang Changbao , Wang Maofa , Xu Bang
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the boundedness of the maximal function for an operator‐valued weighted L1 space on the unit sphere of , in which the weight functions are invariant under finite reflection groups, is established. We use it to prove the boundedness of orthogonal expansions in h‐harmonics and this result applies to various methods of summability. Furthermore, we obtain the corresponding pointwise convergence theorems. At last, we give some results in the special reflection group .
M‐normal subgroups and non‐abelian lower continuous topological groups
Authors: He Wei , Peng Dekui
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we introduce the notion of m‐normal subgroups and show that the m‐normal subgroups of connect locally compact groups and that of compact groups are closely related to Lie groups. As applications, we extend Theorem 3.8 in [D. Peng and W. He, Lower continuous topological groups, Topol. Appl. 265 (2019)] by giving a lower continuity criterion for dense subgroups of arbitrary topological groups. It is shown that lower continuity is preserved under taking topological products. It is also shown that an infinite compact group is hereditarily lower continuous if and only if the normalizer of every non‐trivial finite subgroup is finite.
Mild Neurological Signs in FMR1 Premutation Women in an Unselected Community‐Based Cohort
Authors: Mailick Marsha R. , Hong Jinkuk , Movaghar Arezoo , DaWalt Leann , Berry‐Kravis Elizabeth M. , Brilliant Murray H. , Boero Jaime , Todd Peter K. , Hall Deborah
Published: June 2021

Background

Premutation‐sized (55–200) CGG repeat expansions in the FMR1 gene cause fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). Most studies of premutation carriers utilized reverse ascertainment to identify patients, leading to a selection bias for larger repeats. As shorter CGG premutation repeats are common in the population, understanding their impact on health outcomes has a potentially large public health footprint.

Objective

The study's objective was to compare an unselected group of premutation carriers (n = 35, 55–101 CGG repeats) with matched controls (n = 61, 29–39 CGG repeats) with respect to FXTAS‐type signs using structured neurological assessments.

Methods

Three neurologists independently rated signs, using an adapted version of the FXTAS Rating Scale (Leehey MA, Berry‐Kravis E, Goetz CG, et al. FMR1 CGG repeat length predicts motor dysfunction in premutation carriers. Neurology. 2008). This was a double‐blind study, as genetic status (premutation vs. control) was known neither by the participants nor by any of the neurologists. Analyses controlled potentially confounding comorbid conditions in the electronic health record (eg, osteoarthritis and stroke) and probed the association of age with signs.

Results

Although there was no overall difference between carriers and controls, among individuals without any potentially confounding comorbid diagnoses, there was a statistically significant age‐associated elevation in FXTAS‐type signs in premutation carriers compared to controls.

Conclusions

Among those who do not have other comorbid diagnoses, women who have CGG repeats at the lower end of the premutation range may be at greater risk for ataxia and parkinsonism than their age peers, although their overall risk of developing such clinical features is low. This study should provide reassurance to those who share characteristics with the present cohort. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Sweet or Bland Dreams? Taste Loss in Isolated REM‐Sleep Behavior Disorder and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Nigam Milan , Ayadi Ines , Noiray Camille , Branquino‐Bras Ana Catarina , Herraez Sanchez Erika , Leu‐Semenescu Smaranda , Vidailhet Marie , Dodet Pauline , Arnulf Isabelle
Published: June 2021

Background

Hyposmia and isolated REM sleep behavior disorder are well‐established features of prodromal Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to evaluate whether taste loss (reported in PD and possibly suggesting brain stem involvement) is present at the isolated REM sleep behavior disorder stage.

Methods

We assessed taste function using the Taste Strip Test (evaluating 4 concentrations of bitter, sweet, sour, and salty) in 44 participants with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder, 19 with PD, and 29 controls. All participants underwent video‐polysomnography, standardized questionnaires, and clinical examination, including olfactory assessment.

Results

Participants with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder and PD had lower taste scores than controls. There was no difference between isolated REM sleep behavior disorder and PD cohorts, nor was there any correlation between taste and olfaction, age, disease duration, cognition, or autonomic function.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates for the first time the presence of taste impairment in isolated REM sleep behavior disorder that is independent of olfactory dysfunction and comparable to participants with PD. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Court action, new spending may improve New Hampshire crisis care
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: June 2021

A combination of judicial action and strong bipartisan support for mental health initiatives is offering reason for encouragement in New Hampshire's advocacy community over reducing wait times for critical mental health services.
FDA approves first drug therapy for Alzheimer's in 18 years
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2021

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) last week approved Aduhelm (aducanumab), considered the first novel therapy to be approved for Alzheimer's patients since 2003. The timely and long‐awaited June 8 announcement arrives during National Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month.
Mental Health America announces new president, CEO
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2021

Following a rigorous, six‐month search, Mental Health America (MHA) has named Schroeder Stribling, social worker and former CEO of a Washington, D.C. nonprofit, as the organization's new CEO effective June 28, replacing Paul Gionfriddo, the former president and CEO who is retiring.
Study finds social isolation has ‘detrimental’ impact on girls
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2021

COVID‐19 has had a significant, detrimental impact on adolescent mental health, especially in girls, according to a new study — considered the first to investigate and document age‐ and gender‐specific changes in adolescent mental health and problems and substance use during the COVID‐19 pandemic while accounting for upward trends that were appearing before the pandemic.
Design of frequency selective surface using proximity mode coupling and its applications to Ku band RCS reduction
Authors: Swaminathan Anand , Chermakani Saravana Ruban , Athivel Sathish Periyasamy , Jeyaraj Josephine Pon Gloria
Published: June 2021

This article proposes a novel approach to design a frequency selective surface (FSS) based on proximity coupling modes. Two closely placed modes given by two different structures are merged to achieve the coupled modes to improve the operation bandwidth (BW). This method reduces the radar cross section (RCS) of the patch antenna without deteriorating the radiation characteristics like gain, directivity, and radiation efficiency. A FSS unit cell of dimension 8 × 8 mm is made into a 3 × 2 array and is placed in the same layer around the microstrip patch antenna for RCS reduction in single layer. The simulated and measured results show the RCSR of 17 dB with a BW of 5.2 GHz in radar Ku band.
DRPCTS: A digital computation theory framework system for rock property parameters using micro‐CT images
Authors: Zhao Zhi , Zhou Xiao‐Ping
Published: June 2021

Rock properties evaluations play decisive roles in various geotechnical engineering programs. This work aims at establishing a digital rock parameters computation theory framework system (DRPCTS) to rapidly and accurately obtain the common pore‐scale, hydraulic, and thermophysical variables by micro‐CT images. The proposed package contains the codes for the pore‐scale, hydraulic, and thermophysical variables expressions defined by the digital analysis techniques. Some experimental rock properties datasets are given to validate the accuracy of DRPCTS. The DRPCTS package provides excellent tools to rapidly obtain the common rock properties parameters only using some micro‐CT datasets as the input parameters with simple implementations.
Chlorination converting one efficient polymeric donor to an effective electron acceptor in organic solar cells
Authors: Gao Xiang , Zhan Tao , Zhang Xiaolu , Dong Jun , Bao Junjie , Wen Jing , Cai Ping , Liu Zhitian
Published: June 2021

Chlorination converts an efficient isoindigo (IID)‐based electron donor material to an effective electron acceptor material, which could pair with different donor materials. The polymer PAZ could work as the donor and achieve moderate power conversion efficiency of 3.56%, but organic solar cells based on the blend of PC71BM and the chlorinated analogue PAZ‐Cl fail. On the contrary, only PAZ‐Cl could be used as the acceptor material matching with typical donor polymers, such as PTB7‐Th, J52 and J52‐2Cl. Simulation based on density functional theory suggests that the main reason for this transform might be attributed to the change in the electrostatic potential of the polymers. This research paves a new way to design novel electron acceptors for organic solar cells.
Fault classification for high‐dimensional data streams: A directional diagnostic framework based on multiple hypothesis testing
Authors: Xiang Dongdong , Li Wendong , Tsung Fugee , Pu Xiaolong , Kang Yicheng
Published: June 2021

In various modern statistical process control applications that involve high‐dimensional data streams (HDDS), accurate fault diagnosis of out‐of‐control (OC) streams is becoming crucial. The existing diagnostic approaches either focus on moderate‐dimensional processes or are unable to determine the shift direction accurately, especially when the signal‐to‐noise ratio is low. In this paper, we conduct a bold trial and consider the fault classification problem of the mean vector of HDDS where determining the shift direction of the OC streams is important to perform customized repairs. To this end, under the basic assumptions that the in‐control data streams are normal with mean 0 and variance 1, and that the high‐dimensional observations after the alarm are solely OC, the problem is formulated into a three‐classification multiple testing framework, and an efficient data‐driven diagnostic procedure is developed to minimize the expected number of false positives and to control the missed discovery rate at given level. The procedure is statistically optimal and computationally efficient, and improves the diagnostic effectiveness by considering directional information, which provides insights to guide further decisions. Both theoretical and numerical results reveal the superiority of the new method.
We may not know much about the deep sea, but do we care about mining it?
Authors: Kaikkonen Laura , van Putten Ingrid
Published: June 2021

The way we value the environment affects how we treat it. While public awareness of human impacts on the ocean is increasing, industrial activities in the deep sea are accelerating rapidly and out of sight.

The underlying values we hold for the environment were increasingly recognised as an important factor in environmental decision‐making, and it was thus important to evaluate public values towards deep‐sea environments.

Here, we explored people's care for the deep sea and related this to the perceived risks of seafloor mining by comparing the deep sea to three other remote environments: Antarctica, remote terrestrial environments and the Moon.

We conducted an online survey to investigate symbolic values, which we define as the emotions, moods and meanings an environment evokes, as an element affecting people's care for the environment. In addition, we investigated the respondent's knowledge, worldviews and the perceived environmental and societal risk of mining in these four environments.

We found that symbolic values shape people's environmental care and that the overall symbolic value attributed to each of the environments differs.

People perceived it likely that mining will take place in the deep sea, and the majority of respondents (81%) stated to care a lot or very much about human activities harming the deep sea.

In comparison to the other remote environments, in a general sense people cared less about the deep sea, and their self‐assessed knowledge of the deep sea was lower.

These results suggest that it was fundamental to account for the underlying values and emotions towards the environment when evaluating the risks of human activities in remote settings.

Our results further highlighted the need to improve public understanding and connection with the deep sea and its role within wider society to engender deep‐sea stewardship.

A freePlain Language Summarycan be found within the Supporting Information of this article.