bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the feasibility of spatially offset Raman spectroscopy for in‐vivo monitoring of bone healing in rat calvarial defect models
Authors: Dooley Max , McLaren Jane , Rose Felicity R. A. J. , Notingher Ioan
Published: July 2020

A wide range of biomaterials and tissue‐engineered scaffolds are being investigated to support and stimulate bone healing in animal models. Using phantoms and rat cadavers, we investigated the feasibility of using spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) to monitor changes in collagen concentration at levels similar to those expected to occur in vivo during bone regeneration (0‐0.84 g/cm3). A partial least squares (PLS) regression model was developed to quantify collagen concentration in plugs consisting of mixtures or collagen and hydroxyapatite (predictive power of ±0.16 g/cm3). The PLS model was then applied on SORS spectra acquired from rat cadavers after implanting the collagen: hydroxyapatite plugs in drilled skull defects. The PLS model successfully predicting the profile of collagen concentration, but with an increased predictive error of ±0.30 g/cm3. These results demonstrate the potential of SORS to quantify collagen concentrations, in the range relevant to those occurring during new bone formation.
Development and characterization of portable smartphone‐based imaging device
Authors: Banik Soumyabrata , Mahato Krishna K. , Antonini Andrea , Mazumder Nirmal
Published: July 2020

Many diseases in rural areas and developing countries are detected late at an advanced stage when treatment might involve complications and higher cost, resulting in a greater number of fatalities. This study aims to make early disease detection simpler and affordable for people living in remote areas and developing countries. A new age optical microscope with high sensitivity diagnosis can revolutionize this gap in disease detection. Here, a smartphone‐based imaging device (SID) using optics and a smartphone interface was developed to speedup the process of diagnosis in areas that do not have easy access to health centers and diagnostic clinics. The device was built using acrylic sheets to make it less bulky and customizable and three‐dimensional (3D) printed mechanical parts were used to increase stability. The study includes calibration, and testing the device with various samples to determine its capabilities. Images were acquired using the various types of BLIPS lens integrated onto the smartphone camera lens and compared with optical microscope images. The device can visualize single human blood cell which is 8 μm in size using ultra‐BLIPS lens and magnification is comparable to an objective lens used in an optical microscope.
Systematic importance of achene macro‐micromorphological characteristics in selected species of the genera Crupina, Jurinea, and Klasea (Asteraceae) from Turkey
Authors: Bona Mehmet
Published: July 2020

This study focuses on the macro‐micromorphological achene characteristics of 12 species of the genera Crupina, Jurinea, and Klasea (Asteraceae) using light microscopy and the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The morphological characteristics of the achenes, including shape, size, color, and surface pattern of achene, and hair structure, length, and color of pappus are studied. The results show that the achene length is between 3 and 8 mm, and its width is between 1 and 4 mm. Pappus is 4–15 mm long and persistent for seven species. SEM analysis shows four different achene surface patterns for the studied species: smooth, undulate, smooth‐undulate, and undulate‐ruminate. The genus Crupina has darkly colored achenes with yellow, dense firm hairs, and the achene surface pattern is smooth. Triangular and sulcate achenes seem to characteristic for the genus Jurinea. The genus Klasea distinguished from the remaining species studied with its straw‐colored and deciduous pappus. Macro‐micromorphological characteristics provide effective tools for both generic and intrageneric differentiation for the studied species.
Expanding the chemical space: Discovery of new anticancer 3‐arylbenzofuran derivatives
Authors: Kim Jinhwang , Cha Hyeon‐Min , Park Mikyung , Singh Dileep K. , Bae Gi H. , Kim Seong H. , Kim Ikyon
Published: July 2020

A new chemical space was generated via C2‐functionalization of 3‐arylbenzofurans. Mannich reaction of 3‐arylbenzofurans with secondary amines and formaldehyde allowed for installation of aminomethyl unit at C2 position of benzofurans. A formyl group at C2 site introduced as a result of Vilsmeier‐Haack formylation of 3‐arylbenzofurans was employed as a reacting partner for three‐component Kabachnik‐Fields reaction with various amines and triethyl phosphite to give a wide variety of aminomethylphosphonates. Furthermore, several benzo[d]oxazoles and pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinoxalines were prepared by using the formyl group. Biological screening of the synthesized compounds revealed that the benzofuran bearing a pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinoxaline moiety (5b) most potently inhibited the viability of human blood cancer cells, but not solid tumor cells. Caspase activity assay, analysis of Annexin V‐positive cells, and Western blot analysis indicated that 5b‐induced death of human lymphoma U937 cells could result from its potential to induce the caspase‐dependent apoptotic death of blood cancer cells with inhibition of ERK activation.
PEPFAR’s response to the convergence of the HIV and COVID‐19 pandemics in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Golin Rachel , Godfrey Catherine , Firth Jacqueline , Lee Lana , Minior Thomas , Phelps B Ryan , Raizes Elliot G , Ake Julie A , Siberry George K
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic reached the African continent in less than three months from when the first cases were reported from mainland China. As COVID‐19 preparedness and response plans were rapidly instituted across sub‐Saharan Africa, many governments and donor organizations braced themselves for the unknown impact the COVID‐19 pandemic would have in under‐resourced settings with high burdens of PLHIV. The potential negative impact of COVID‐19 in these countries is uncertain, but is estimated to contribute both directly and indirectly to the morbidity and mortality of PLHIV, requiring countries to leverage existing HIV care systems to propel COVID‐19 responses, while safeguarding PLHIV and HIV programme gains. In anticipation of COVID‐19‐related disruptions, PEPFAR promptly established guidance to rapidly adapt HIV programmes to maintain essential HIV services while protecting recipients of care and staff from COVID‐19. This commentary reviews PEPFAR’s COVID‐19 technical guidance and provides country‐specific examples of programme adaptions in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Discussion

The COVID‐19 pandemic may pose significant risks to the continuity of HIV services, especially in countries with high HIV prevalence and weak and over‐burdened health systems. Although there is currently limited understanding of how COVID‐19 affects PLHIV, it is imperative that public health systems and academic centres monitor the impact of COVID‐19 on PLHIV. The general principles of the HIV programme adaptation guidance from PEPFAR prioritize protecting the gains in the HIV response while minimizing in‐person home and facility visits and other direct contact when COVID‐19 control measures are in effect. PEPFAR‐supported clinical, laboratory, supply chain, community and data reporting systems can play an important role in mitigating the impact of COVID‐19 in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Conclusions

As community transmission of COVID‐19 continues and the number of country cases rise, fragile health systems may be strained. Utilizing the adaptive, data‐driven programme approaches in facilities and communities established and supported by PEPFAR provides the opportunity to strengthen the COVID‐19 response while protecting the immense gains spanning HIV prevention, testing and treatment reached thus far.
Increased severe landfall typhoons in China since 2004
Authors: Yao Cai , Xiao Zhixiang , Yang Song , Luo Xiaoli
Published: July 2020

Severe landfall typhoons (SLTYs), defined as those with maximum sustained wind speed ≥41.5 m s−1 at landfalls, strongly affect the coastal regions of China and cause grave losses of life and property. In this study, we analyse the SLTYs in China in peak summer (July–September) for the period of 1973–2017, during which typhoon landfall intensity (LFI) experienced significantly abrupt strengthening in 1987 and 2003. The period is divided into three sub‐periods: period‐I (1973–1987), period‐II (1988–2003), and period‐III (2004–2017). It is found that the increase in LFI is dominated by the enhancement of intensification rate but not intensification duration. Meanwhile, the SLTYs in China have also abruptly increased since 2004, characterized by the count of about 65.9% (72.7%) of SLTYs in China (South China) in period‐III. Further analysis shows that the warming subsurface ocean heat content (OHC) over the northern South China Sea (SCS) plays a key role in modulating typhoon's intensification, which subsequently enhances the easterly steering flow leading typhoons to move westward. Low‐level water vapour convergence and vorticity are enhanced accompanied by warming northern SCS along the coastal region of southeastern China, resulting rapid typhoon intensification before landfall. About 9.7% of typhoons with landfall in South China experienced a rapid intensification process in 24 hr before landfalls in period‐III. However, the percentage is only 1.6 and 3.1% for period‐I and period‐II, respectively. The warming land surface over South China plays a minor role in attracting typhoons to landfall in South China, which named as “warmward landfall”. Overall, the abrupt enhancement of LFI and more SLTYs in China since 2004 are governed by the warming ocean, while the abnormal easterly steering flow and warming land surface over South China leading typhoons to move westward play a secondary role.
Single‐beam optogenetic multimodal χ(3)/χ(5) nonlinear microscopy and brain imaging
Authors: Lanin Aleksandr A. , Chebotarev Artem S. , Pochechuev Matvey S. , Kelmanson Ilya V. , Kotova Daria A. , Bilan Dmitry S. , Ivanov Anatoly A. , Panova Anastasiya S. , Tarabykin Viktor S. , Fedotov Andrei B. , Belousov Vsevolod V. , Zheltikov Aleksei M.
Published: July 2020

We demonstrate single‐beam optogenetic multimodal nonlinear‐optical microscopy that combines third‐harmonic generation (THG) and three‐photon‐excited fluorescence (3PEF) – two nonlinear‐optical processes related to the third‐ and fifth‐order susceptibilities, χ(3) and χ(5). A carefully tailored unamplified short‐pulse output of mode‐locked solid‐state lasers is shown to provide an ample parameter space for the optimization of such a single‐beam multimodal microscopy, enabling subcellular‐resolution, cell‐specific imaging using genetically encoded fluorescent‐protein‐based reporters in a vast variety of biological systems and settings, ranging from HeLa to brain cells. Experiments on brain slices and cell cultures presented in this paper demonstrate the potential of short‐pulse 3PEF/THG microscopy for a subcellular‐resolution, high‐contrast imaging of HeLa‐line cancer‐cell derivatives, as well as mitochondrial and somatic intracellular structures within deep‐brain neurons and astrocytes. As a step beyond the state of the art in optical brain imaging, single‐beam subcellular‐resolution, cell‐specific optogenetic 3PEF/THG imaging of fundamental functional brain units is experimentally demonstrated. One fundamental question that this work brings up for the future nonlinear absorption and Raman/hyper‐Raman studies is whether the Herzberg–Teller corrections, needed for an accurate description of two‐photon absorption in fluorescent proteins (FPs), would be also sufficient for an adequate treatment of higher‐n n‐photon absorption in FP‐based systems or models that include other quantum pathways would be necessary for the analysis of FP agents for higher‐n nonlinear microscopy.
Spectroscopic characterization of commercial pigments for pictorial retouching
Authors: Corradini Martina , de Ferri Lavinia , Pojana Giulio
Published: July 2020

A set of 27 commercially available pigments by Kremer Pigmente (Aichstetten, Germany), including traditional and synthetic compounds, has been characterized in detail from a chemical and mineralogical point of view in the frame of a wide research project about pigments and colorants involving different spectroscopic techniques such as reflectance spectroscopy (in both visible and near‐infrared intervals), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (in both attenuated total reflection and reflection modes), and Raman spectroscopy. These pigments are currently employed for pictorial retouch purposes of both ancient and contemporary works of art, and a deep comprehension of their composition is fundamental in order to better understand their long‐term behavior after application.

This work presents Raman results found analyzing the set of pigments in order to identify existing phases and comparing them with datasheets available by Kremer Pigmente: some inconsistencies were found, especially concerning correspondences with Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) numbers, pigment codes, and color indexes, together with the absence of some compounds in the records.

Most Raman signals were attributed to specific vibrational modes, even if in some cases, only related chemical species were identified, whereas information regarding individual vibrational modes was not found in the literature. The whole volume of data generated in this project will represent a useful tool for the study of artworks permitting both the interpretation of spectral information obtainable mostly from portable instruments and for the evaluation of materials to be used for pictorial retouching.
Effects on must and wine volatile composition after biostimulation with a brown alga to Tempranillo grapevines in two seasons
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Gamboa Gastón , Garde‐Cerdán Teresa , Rubio‐Bretón Pilar , Pérez‐Álvarez Eva P
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND

Seaweed application has been defined as a novel technique capable of improving the content of secondary metabolites in berries. There is limited available information about its effects on must and wine volatile composition. This field trial aimed to study the effects of biostimulation to Tempranillo grapevines through an Ascophyllum nodosum fertilizer applied at a low dosage (Ld) and high dosage (Hd) on must and wine volatile compounds over two seasons.

RESULTS

Ld treatment scarcely affected must and wine volatile compounds in both seasons. Hd foliar application increased the content in musts of several individual terpenoids, C13 norisoprenoids, esters, benzenoids, alcohols, carbonyl compounds and C6 compounds in 2018. Must yeast assimilable nitrogen conditioned the production of wine volatile compounds.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that seaweeds applications can act as elicitors in Tempranillo, triggering the synthesis of several compounds by the plant in musts during a season with a high rainfall and relative humidity. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Restricted Water Intake Adversely Affects Rat Vocal Fold Biology
Authors: Duan Chenwei , do Nascimento Naila Cannes , Calve Sarah , Cox Abigail , Sivasankar M. Preeti
Published: July 2020

Objectives

A holistic understanding of the many ways that systemic dehydration affects vocal fold biology is still evolving. There are also myriad physiologically relevant methodologies to induce systemic dehydration. To untangle the effects of systemic dehydration on vocal fold biology, we need to utilize realistic, clinically translatable paradigms of systemic dehydration in lab animals. Restricted access to water accommodates clinical translation. We investigated whether systemic dehydration via reduced water intake would negatively affect vocal fold biology.

Study Design

Prospective, in vivo study design.

Methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats (N = 13) were provided 4 mL/100 g of water/day for 5 days, whereas male control rats (N = 8) were given ad lib access to water. Following euthanasia, tissues were processed for histological staining, gene expression, and protein assays.

Results

Renin gene expression level in kidneys increased significantly (P ≤ .05), validating dehydration. Dehydration induced by restricted water access downregulated the gene expression of interleukin‐1α and desmoglein‐1 (P ≤ .05). Hyaluronidase‐2 gene expression increased after dehydration (P ≤ .05). The protein level of desmoglein‐1 decreased after dehydration (P ≤ .05). Histological analyses suggested decreased hyaluronan (P ≤ .05) in the water‐restricted rat vocal fold.

Conclusion

Reduced daily water intake for just 5 days impairs vocal fold biology by disrupting inflammatory cytokine release, reducing plasma membrane integrity, and disrupting the hyaluronan network. This is the first study investigating the dehydrating effects of restricted water intake on vocal fold tissue in an in vivo model.

Level of Evidence

NA (prospective animal study). Laryngoscope, 131:839–845, 2021
Suppression of environmental DNA degradation in water samples associated with different storage temperature and period using benzalkonium chloride
Authors: Takahara Teruhiko , Taguchi Junya , Yamagishi Satoshi , Doi Hideyuki , Ogata Shigeki , Yamanaka Hiroki , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: July 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is a useful tool for biological monitoring of a target species by detecting DNA contained in environmental samples. However, the suppression of eDNA degradation after sample collection is a major issue when estimating the presence of a target species. Recently, benzalkonium chloride (BAC) was shown to dramatically suppress the degradation of eDNA in fish species from freshwater environments. However, the effect of this inexpensive reagent has not yet been tested in the other fish and shellfish species. We examined changes in eDNA concentrations for three target species (Corbicula japonica, Lateolabrax japonicus, and Anguilla japonica). eDNA was measured in samples containing added BAC. The effects of storage temperature (25°C, 4°C, and −30°C) and storage periods (periods up to 21 d) were also measured to determine how sample degradation was affected. We observed that BAC addition was effective in suppressing eDNA degradation, and its influence was similar among species but not storage temperatures. The concentrations of eDNA with BAC for all three species did not decrease with storage period, except for L. japonicus at 25°C and 4°C. Our results suggest that BAC affects eDNA degradation universally for a variety of species inhabiting both freshwater and brackish water.
Opioid Avoidance in Liver Transplant Recipients: Reduction in Postoperative Opioid Use Through a Multidisciplinary Multimodal Approach
Authors: Kutzler Heather L. , Gannon Richard , Nolan William , Meisterling Leah , Cech Marbelia , Gleason Danielle , Uzl Justin , Rochon Caroline , Maneckshana Bejon , Serrano Oscar K. , Riley Jenifer , O’Sullivan David , Urtasun Sotil Eva , Einstein Michael , Sheiner Patricia
Published: July 2020

The prevalence of substance use disorder in the liver transplantation (LT) population makes postoperative pain management challenging. We report our initial experience with a novel, comprehensive, multidisciplinary opioid avoidance pathway in 13 LT recipients between January 2018 and September 2019. Patients received comprehensive pre‐LT education on postoperative opioid avoidance by the surgeon, pharmacist, and psychologist at the time of listing. Immediately after LT, patients received a continuous incisional ropivacaine infusion, ketamine, acetaminophen, and gabapentin as standard nonopioid medications; rescue opioids were used as needed. We compared outcomes with a historical cohort of 27 LT recipients transplanted between August 2016 and January 2018 managed primarily with opioids. On average, opioid avoidance patients used 92% fewer median (interquartile range [IQR]) morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) versus the historical cohort (7 [1‐11] versus 87 [60‐130] MME; P < 0.001) per postoperative day over a similar length of stay (8 [7‐10] versus 6 [6‐10] days; P = 0.14). Fewer outpatient MMEs were prescribed within the first 60 days after LT in the opioid avoidance group versus the historical cohort: 125 (25‐150) versus 270 (0‐463) MME (P = 0.05). This proof‐of‐concept study outlines the potential to profoundly reduce opioid utilization in the LT population using a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach.
Clinical and Imaging Progression in the PARS Cohort: Long‐Term Follow‐up
Authors: Siderowf Andrew , Jennings Danna , Stern Matthew , Seibyl John , Eberly Shirley , Oakes David , Marek Kenneth ,   for the PARS Investigators
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives

The PARS (Parkinson Associated Risk Syndrome) study was designed to test whether screening for hyposmia followed by dopamine transporter imaging can identify risk for conversion to clinical PD, and to evaluate progression markers during the prodromal period.

Methods

Subjects with hyposmia completed annual clinical evaluations and biennial [123I]ß‐CIT single‐photon emission computed tomography scans. Subjects were categorized as normal (>80% age‐expected tracer uptake; n = 134), indeterminate (>65–80%; n = 30), and dopamine transporter deficit (≤65%; n = 21) by their baseline scan, and survival analysis was used to compare risk of conversion to motor PD. Progressing to a scan with a dopamine transporter deficit was assessed for those subjects with either normal or indeterminate baseline imaging.

Results

Over a mean of 6.3 [standard deviation: 2.2] years of follow‐up, 67% (n = 14) of dopamine transporter deficit subjects, 20% (n = 6) of dopamine transporter indeterminate subjects, and 4% (n = 6) of dopamine transporter normal subjects converted to a PD diagnosis (P < 0.0001). Among subjects without dopamine transporter deficit at baseline, a reduction to ≤65% age‐expected uptake occurred in 12 of 30 (40%) with indeterminate dopamine transporter and 7 of 134 (5%) with no dopamine transporter DAT deficit (P < 0.0001). Imaging conversion during follow‐up was associated with subsequent clinical conversion (hazard ratio: 9.6; P = 0.0157).

Discussion and Conclusions

Long‐term follow‐up of the PARS cohort demonstrated a high rate of conversion to clinical PD in subjects who either had abnormal dopamine transporter imaging at baseline or developed abnormal imaging during follow‐up. These data extend the earlier PARS findings and present new results showing the sequence of incident imaging deficit, imaging progression, and clinical changes that occur in prodromal PD. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Stearidonic‐Enriched Soybean Oil Modulates Obesity, Glucose Metabolism, and Fatty Acid Profiles Independently of Akkermansia muciniphila
Authors: Segura Munoz Rafael R. , Quach Truyen , Gomes‐Neto João C. , Xian Yibo , Pena Pamela A. , Weier Steven , Pellizzon Michael A. , Kittana Hatem , Cody Liz A. , Geis Abby L. , Heck Kari , Schmaltz Robert J. , Bindels Laure B. , Cahoon Edgar B. , Benson Andrew K. , Clemente Tom Elmo , Ramer‐Tait Amanda E.
Published: July 2020

Scope

Previous studies have suggested that diets rich in omega‐3 and low in omega‐6 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can limit the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Transgenic soybeans yielding oils enriched for omega‐3 PUFAs represent a new and readily‐available option for incorporating omega‐3 PUFAs into diets to provide health benefits.

Methods and Results

Transgenic soybean oils, enriched for either stearidonic acid (SDA) or eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), are incorporated into diets to test their effects on limiting the development of MetS in a mouse model of diet‐induced obesity. Supplementation with SDA‐ but not EPA‐enriched oils improved features of MetS compared to feeding a control wild‐type oil. Because previous studies have linked the gut microorganism Akkermansia muciniphila to the metabolic effects of feeding omega‐3 PUFAs, the causal contribution of A. muciniphila to mediating the metabolic benefits provided by SDA‐enriched diets is investigated. Although A. muciniphila is not required for SDA‐induced metabolic improvements, this microorganism does modulate levels of saturated and mono‐unsaturated fatty acids in host adipose tissues.

Conclusion

Together, these findings support the utilization of SDA‐enriched diets to modulate weight gain, glucose metabolism, and fatty acid profiles of liver and adipose tissue.
Correcting frequency and phase offsets in MRS data using robust spectral registration
Authors: Mikkelsen Mark , Tapper Sofie , Near Jamie , Mostofsky Stewart H. , Puts Nicolaas A. J. , Edden Richard A. E.
Published: July 2020

An algorithm for retrospective correction of frequency and phase offsets in MRS data is presented. The algorithm, termed robust spectral registration (rSR), contains a set of subroutines designed to robustly align individual transients in a given dataset even in cases of significant frequency and phase offsets or unstable lipid contamination and residual water signals. Data acquired by complex multiplexed editing approaches with distinct subspectral profiles are also accurately aligned. Automated removal of unstable lipid contamination and residual water signals is applied first, when needed. Frequency and phase offsets are corrected in the time domain by aligning each transient to a weighted average reference in a statistically optimal order using nonlinear least‐squares optimization. The alignment of subspectra in edited datasets is performed using an approach that specifically targets subtraction artifacts in the frequency domain. Weighted averaging is then used for signal averaging to down‐weight poorer‐quality transients. Algorithm performance was assessed on one simulated and 67 in vivo pediatric GABA‐/GSH‐edited HERMES datasets and compared with the performance of a multistep correction method previously developed for aligning HERMES data. The performance of the novel approach was quantitatively assessed by comparing the estimated frequency/phase offsets against the known values for the simulated dataset or by examining the presence of subtraction artifacts in the in vivo data. Spectral quality was improved following robust alignment, especially in cases of significant spectral distortion. rSR reduced more subtraction artifacts than the multistep method in 64% of the GABA difference spectra and 75% of the GSH difference spectra. rSR overcomes the major challenges of frequency and phase correction.
LURKING INFERENTIAL MONSTERS? QUANTIFYING SELECTION BIAS IN EVALUATIONS OF SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Authors: Weidmann Ben , Miratrix Luke
Published: July 2020

This study examines whether unobserved factors substantially bias education evaluations that rely on the Conditional Independence Assumption. We add 14 new within‐study comparisons to the literature, all from primary schools in England. Across these 14 studies, we generate 42 estimates of selection bias using a simple approach to observational analysis. A meta‐analysis of these estimates suggests that the distribution of underlying bias is centered around zero. The mean absolute value of estimated bias is 0.03σ, and none of the 42 estimates are larger than 0.11σ. Results are similar for math, reading, and writing outcomes. Overall, we find no evidence of substantial selection bias due to unobserved characteristics. These findings may not generalize easily to other settings or to more radical educational interventions, but they do suggest that non‐experimental approaches could play a greater role than they currently do in generating reliable causal evidence for school education.
Morphology, thermal behavior, rheological, and mechanical properties of polypropylene/polystyrene blends based on elongation flow
Authors: Chen Rongyuan , Liu Xin , Han Lin , Zhang Zhonghou , Li Yadong
Published: July 2020

Binary blends comprised of polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) were prepared by a novel eccentric rotor extruder based on elongation flow. The morphology, thermal behavior, rheological and mechanical properties were investigated. As the enhanced mixed dispersion based on the novel extruder, the dispersed PS phase were uniformly dispersed in the PP matrix when the PS not more than 40%, and a distinct cocontinuous phase structure emerged when the PS content was 50%. The size of the dispersed PS phase related to the PS content and the processing flow filed influenced the crystallization behavior and the thermal stability of the blends. The PS droplet with small size could act as a nucleating agent for PP to improve the crystallinity, and PS droplet with large size could promote the thermal and heat transfer between the PS droplets and PP matrix which decreased the thermal stability. The rheological results showed that the compounding with PS into the PP matrix increased the storage and loss modulus as well as the complex viscosity of the materials. When the PS content not more than 20%, the blends showed good impact resistance, and PP/PS blends 30% PS showed good tensile and flexural properties. This study gives a new perspective for the structure and properties of the binary PP/PS blends prepared based on elongation flow.
Safety and efficacy of dose‐escalation hydroxyurea therapy in very young children with sickle cell anemia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: George Alex , Tran Jennifer N.
Published: July 2020

Objective

The BABY HUG trial of hydroxyurea in very young children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) established the safety and clinical benefit of hydroxyurea therapy at a fixed dose in this age group but did not assess the safety and efficacy of escalation to maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in this age group.

Methods

To address this question, we conducted a retrospective chart review of children with HbSS or HbS β0Thalassemia started on hydroxyurea therapy before the age of two years between 2011 and 2018 at the Texas Children's Hematology Center.

Results

We identified 102 patients ranging from 5 to 24 months in age initiated on hydroxyurea therapy during the study period. MTD was achieved in 86 patients, of whom 51 were still at MTD at the end of monitoring. Overall laboratory response to hydroxyurea was superior in our cohort to that seen in the BABY HUG treatment arm, but MTD declined with age of initiation of treatment. There was a trend toward fewer clinical adverse events in our cohort with maintenance of MTD.

Conclusions

Dose escalation to MTD appears to be safe in very young children with SCA and results in significant and sustained increases in hemoglobin concentration and HbF. Our findings also suggest that conventional dose‐escalation to MTD may be challenging in children under the age of two years due to the relatively low neutrophil counts commonly seen in this age group.
Deduction of a facile method to construct Antheraea mylitta silk fibroin/gelatin blend films for prospective biomedical applications
Authors: Batra Radhika , Purwar Roli
Published: July 2020

Blend films of two types (I and II) were prepared by mixing Antheraea mylitta silk fibroin (AMF) and gelatin solution in various blend ratios via the solution casting method. Two different crosslinkers, namely glutaraldehyde and genipin, were used during blend preparation. The structural characteristics and thermal properties of the blend films were examined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Diffrential scanning calorimetery (DSC). The FTIR spectra showed conformational alterations in type I blend films while type II films attained high β‐sheet crystallinity. The XRD diffractograms presented a high degree of crystallinity in type II blend films compared to type I, which showed an almost amorphous structure. Further, thermal and biological studies were conducted on type II films. According to the TGA thermograms, the degradation temperature of the crosslinked blend films shifted compared to pure gelatin and pure AMF films. Partial miscibility of the two components was indicated by DSC thermograms of the blends. The high water uptake capacity of type II blend films was found to imitate hydrogel behaviour. The blend films did not show any toxicity in 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and supported L929 fibroblast cell spreading and proliferation. The biodegradation of the blend films was significantly faster than the pure silk film. © 2020 Society of Industrial Chemistry
Identifying clusters of health risk behaviors and their predictors in adult survivors of childhood cancer: A report from the French Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Pinto Sandrine , Fresneau Brice , Hounsossou Hubert C. , Mayet Aurélie , Marchi Joeffrey , Pein François , Journy Neige , Mansouri Imene , Drubay Damien , Letort Véronique , Lemler Sarah , Demoor‐Goldschmidt Charlotte , Jackson Angela , Souchard Vincent , Vu‐Bezin Giao , Diallo Ibrahima , Rubino Carole , Oberlin Odile , Haddy Nadia , de Vathaire Florent , Dumas Agnès , Allodji Rodrigue S.
Published: July 2020

Objective

Health risk behaviors (HRB) of childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are generally studied separately, despite the evidence suggesting that HRB are not independent. To our knowledge, few studies have examined HRB profiles in the former pediatric cancer patients. In this study, we identified HRB profiles and examined predictors engaging in unhealthy behaviors in CCS.

Methods

We used data from a French cohort of CCS that includes five‐year survivors diagnosed between 1945 and 2000 and treated before reaching age 18, in five centers in France. A total of 2961 adult CCS answered a self‐reported questionnaire pertaining to HRB. Latent class analysis was used to identify HRB profiles combining physical activity, smoking, cannabis use, and alcohol drinking. Multinomial logistic analyses examined predictors for engaging in unhealthy behaviors.

Results

Three HRB patterns emerged: “Low‐risk” (n = 1846, 62.3%) included CCS who exhibited the highest frequency for usual physical activity and the lowest probabilities for current smoking or cannabis use, but most drank at least moderately; “Moderate‐risk behaviors” (n = 291, 9.8%), and “High‐risk behaviors” (n = 824, 27.8%) for CCS who exhibited the highest frequencies for current smoking, cannabis use, and heavy drinking. The multivariable regression revealed that male CCS, less educated or not married were significantly more likely to be in the high‐risk behaviors group than the low‐risk group.

Conclusions

As CCS remain a vulnerable population, screening for HRB should be routinized in long‐term follow‐up care and interventions targeting multiple HRB simultaneously among survivors should be developed.
The experience of health‐related quality of life in extended and permanent cancer survivors: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Neris Rhyquelle Rhibna , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira , Leite Ana Carolina Andrade Biaggi , de Andrade Alvarenga Willyane , Polita Naiara Barros , Zago Márcia Maria Fontão
Published: July 2020

Objective

This qualitative systematic review aims to synthesize qualitative evidence from primary studies on experiencing health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in extended and permanent cancer survivors.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed, CINAHL, LILACS, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. It followed guidelines from the statement in the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ). A quality appraisal of each study was undertaken using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Data synthesis was conducted according to the thematic synthesis approach. Confidence in each review finding was assessed using the Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research (Grade‐CERQual).

Results

Twenty‐four studies from nine countries were selected for the final sample. Analysis of the studies' results allowed for the construction of nine descriptive themes that were interpreted into three analytical themes: “The body as a representation of HRQoL,” “Living through and beyond cancer: the re‐signification of HRQoL,” and “Employing resources to improve HRQoL.” According to the CERQual approach, moderate confidence estimations were achieved for the results.

Conclusions

The themes reflect that the HRQoL experience is re‐signified by survivors from the privilege of being alive. This process happens with the support of social resources, family, hope, and spirituality. Based on the findings, it is suggested that health staff should be able to recognize the impact that cancer survival has on HRQoL and develop a care plan that addresses needs to sustain health in these survivors.
Recent advances in the study of Arctic submarine permafrost
Authors: Angelopoulos Michael , Overduin Pier P. , Miesner Frederieke , Grigoriev Mikhail N. , Vasiliev Alexander A.
Published: July 2020

Submarine permafrost is perennially cryotic earth material that lies offshore. Most submarine permafrost is relict terrestrial permafrost beneath the Arctic shelf seas, was inundated after the last glaciation, and has been warming and thawing ever since. As a reservoir and confining layer for gas hydrates, it has the potential to release greenhouse gasses and impact coastal infrastructure, but its distribution and rate of thaw are poorly constrained by observational data. Lengthening summers, reduced sea ice extent and increased solar heating will increase water temperatures and thaw rates. Observations of gas release from the East Siberian shelf and high methane concentrations in the water column and air above it have been attributed to flowpaths created in thawing permafrost. In this context, it is important to understand the distribution and state of submarine permafrost and how they are changing. We assemble recent and historical drilling data on regional submarine permafrost degradation rates and review recent studies that use modelling, geophysical mapping and geomorphology to characterize submarine permafrost. Implications for submarine permafrost thawing are discussed within the context of methane cycling in the Arctic Ocean and global climate change.
A survey of herbal medicines as tumor microenvironment‐modulating agents
Authors: Park Chan‐Ran , Lee Jin‐Seok , Son Chang‐Gue , Lee Nam‐Hun
Published: July 2020

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is extremely complex, involving extensive interactions among stromal cells, immune cells, and signaling molecules. Therefore, an approach targeting the TME has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy. Herbal medicines consist of multiple active compounds, which have multi‐target effects. Therefore, they have been regarded as potential anticancer agents; multiple studies have explored their effects on the TME. In this review, we report the effects of 29 single herb medicines or herbal formulas on the TME, based on the findings of 64 published studies. Specifically, we describe the effects of these herbal medicines on cancer‐associated fibroblasts/tumor‐associated fibroblasts, tumor‐associated endothelial cells, myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, and tumor‐associated macrophages. Among the reviewed herbal medicines, the most promising TME‐modulating effects were exhibited by curcumin, DHA, EGCG, resveratrol, and silibinin; these medicines showed the ability to regulate two or more components of the TME. The findings of this review support the notion that the combination of herbal medicines with conventional anticancer therapies are likely to exhibit a clinical benefit, which should be further explored in clinical trials.
How an urban parameterization affects a high‐resolution global climate simulation
Authors: Katzfey Jack , Schlünzen Heinke , Hoffmann Peter , Thatcher Marcus
Published: July 2020

The impact of urban areas on the global and regional climate has been assessed using the global Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM) including an urban canyon parameterization at a global resolution of 50 km. Simulations were produced with and without urban areas to assess urban impacts for the historical period 1980–2000. Two different land cover and urban datasets (one based on IGBP‐DIS, the other on MODIS) were tested. In addition, simulations were performed for the end of the 21st century with the RCP8.5 scenario. Evaluation of the historical climate simulations indicates realistic local urban effects, such as higher daily minimum air temperatures (tasmin), higher sensible heat flux and lower latent heat flux at urban grid cells. In regions with large fractions of urban areas, some regional changes are also noted. In addition, there are significant regional effects far away from the main urban areas, which are similar in magnitude to the effects of the different non‐urban land cover input datasets. Under the projected warming at the end of the 21st century (with no land cover change), there is a decrease in anthropogenic heating, primarily during wintertime. There is a slightly smaller increase in daily maximum temperature and a slightly larger increase in tasmin in urban areas compared to rural areas. This leads to a smaller increase in the diurnal temperature range within urban areas. The tasmin changes also imply an increase in the urban heat island effect for larger cities. The results of this sensitivity study show that there is a detectable impact of urban areas on high‐resolution global climate simulations. Consequently, there is a need to include urban areas in global simulations, as well as in studies of land‐use change.
New EWMA control charts for monitoring the Weibull shape parameter
Authors: Huwang Longcheen , Lin Li‐Wei
Published: July 2020

In this article, we first propose a new exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA ) chart for monitoring the shape parameter of the Weibull distribution. The proposed chart is developed based on the EWMA of the normal random variable, which is transformed from the easy‐to‐understand chi‐squared random variable. In contrast, the existing EWMA charts for monitoring the shape parameter use the sample range or the unbiased estimator of the shape parameter. Unfortunately, the EWMA chart generated from sample ranges is inefficient in detecting changes due to its lack of sufficiency, whereas the one produced using unbiased estimators of the shape parameter has a highly complicated distribution that is difficult to manipulate. Simulation studies are conducted to compare the effectiveness of the proposed EWMA chart and the two existing EWMA charts. Also, a maximum likelihood estimation method is employed to estimate the change point in the process for the proposed EWMA chart once an out‐of‐control (OC) signal has been triggered. Further, to reduce the time for detecting the OC signal, an EWMA chart with variable sampling intervals (VSIs) for monitoring the shape parameter is developed based on the proposed EWMA chart. This EWMA chart with VSIs is studied, and its performance is evaluated. Finally, an example to demonstrate the applicability and implementation of the proposed charts is provided.
The coplanar family of bis(nitrotriazoles) tetrazine and oxides based as energetic compounds
Authors: Xu Jin , Wu Jinting , Jiang Yuhe , Zeng Lian , Li Wei , Huang Ming , Li Hongbo , Zhang Jianguo
Published: July 2020

Searching for energetic materials that balance detonation performance with sensitivity is an enduring ambition in the evolution of high‐energy density materials (HEDMs). The coplanar molecular structures of energetic compounds have a powerful impact on performance. Novel compounds of bis(nitrotriazoles) tetrazine (BNTT) were designed and investigated by density functional theory methods. The coplanar BNTT's oxides were a highlight in molecules with superior performance and acceptable sensitivities. Results showed that all these designed compounds possess high densities, positive heats of formation, remarkable detonation performance, and acceptable impact sensitivity. In particular, B1‐3 possessed higher density (ρ = 1.97 g cm−3) and exhibited good balance between detonation performance (Q = 1779.83 cal g−1, D = 9.48 km s−1, P = 42.01 GPa) and sensitivity (h50% = 28 cm) than trinitroperhydro‐1,3,5‐triazine (RDX). The theoretical study demonstrated that all designed compounds possess acceptable sensitivity. They were seen as the potential candidates of HEDMs.
Simultaneous determination of succinylcholine and its metabolite in animal‐derived foods by solid‐phase extraction combined with ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Sijie , Zhang Bo , Shi Mao , Wang Hui , Fu Yao
Published: July 2020

Rationale

Succinylcholine has been increasingly used in the theft of animals. Because of the presence of residual levels of succinylcholine in poisoned animals, it is harmful for people to eat foods derived from these animals. Therefore, a method should be immediately established to determine succinylcholine and its metabolite in animal‐derived foods.

Methods

A fast, highly sensitive method, combining solid‐phase extraction (SPE) with ultra‐performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/ESI‐MS/MS), was developed for the determination of succinylcholine and its metabolite in animal‐derived foods. The sample was initially extracted with heptafluorobutyric acid and then further cleaned up using an SPE cartridge. Succinylcholine and its metabolite were separated using acetonitrile: 0.1% formic acid in 5 mmol L−1 ammonium acetate as the mobile phase. Quantitative results were based on positive ion ESI multiple reaction monitoring mode.

Results

The results show good linearity over a wide range with correlation coefficients of determination of more than 0.998. Both the limits of detection of succinylcholine and succinylmonocholine are 0.2 μg kg−1. The intra‐ and inter‐day accuracies of the method are in the range 91.4%–104.6%, and the intra‐ and inter‐day precisions are in the range 2.5%–6.6%.

Conclusions

This method can be used for the determination of succinylcholine as an illicit drug in animal‐derived foods. It was successfully applied to the identification and quantification of succinylcholine and succinylmonocholine in animal‐derived foods collected from a local farmers market in Jilin Province of China.
Event‐based resilience to DoS attacks on communication for consensus of networked Lagrangian systems
Authors: Li Xiaolei , Chen Ci , Lyu Yi , Xie Kan
Published: July 2020

In this article, we consider the resilience analysis of the even‐based consensus control of networked Lagrangian systems under denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks, which are usually implemented by the attackers to block the communication channels. Comparing with the linear cyber‐physical systems, the secure control of the networked Lagrangian systems is more complex and challenging, especially under the conditions of asymmetry communication and discontinuous control. To this end, an event‐based controller is first designed for consensus control of networked Lagrangian systems in the absence of DoS attacks. Sufficient conditions are given to stabilize the closed‐loop systems. Then the resilience analysis is presented for the event‐based controller under DoS attacks. Some conditions associated with the DoS duration and frequency are proposed for the control parameters against the attacks. Then Zeno behaviors are proved to be nonexistent in the proposed control scheme. An algorithm is also given to guide the control design.