bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qualitative analysis of the subcontract bidding process in mining projects
Authors: Araya Felipe , Perez Jocelyn , Salazar Luis , Olivari Valeria
Published: December 2024

Chile is the fifth largest economy in Latin America and one of its main economic activities is mining, a sector in which subcontracting has grown exponentially in the last decade. However, despite its importance, the process of awarding subcontracts lacks a deeper understanding that identifies its inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. This context motivates the study of the subcontract bidding and awarding process within a contractor company in mining projects. A database with real projects was used, comprising 13 projects with an average of 33 subcontracts executed during 2023, complemented by a qualitative content analysis of interviews with 18 experts. This combination of quantitative and qualitative analysis aims to identify critical areas of the current process and propose potential improvements. Our results reveal inefficiencies in the approval and supplier management stages. Proposed improvements include the implementation of training, streamlining of approvals and greater control over suppliers. These results suggest that optimizing the outsourcing process would not only increase efficiency, but also may improve project quality. Future research might focus on modeling subcontracting processes to test potential improvements.
Effect of Internet Usage on the Academic Achievement of Secondary School Students
Authors: Manna Ruma , Sarkar Ratan
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the effect of Internet usage on secondary school students’ academic achievement under the West Bengal Council of Secondary Education (WBCSE), focusing on variables such as gender and academic classes (IX and X). Using a purposive sampling method, the researcher selected 100 students from Classes IX and X at a school in Contai and administered an internet usage questionnaire. This study tested several null hypotheses using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient and an independent sample t-test. The results showed no significant differences in Internet usage and academic achievement between male and female students. It was also found that Class IX students used the internet more than Class X students, suggesting that lower internet usage is linked to higher academic achievement.
Classroom-based Learning of Teachers in Relation to Curriculum Procedure of Teachers in Public Elementary Schools
Authors: Lemente Mary Dave B. , Baguio Josephine B.
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to examine the relationship between classroom-based learning and curriculum procedures of teachers in public elementary schools in the Caraga District, Division of Davao Oriental. A non-experimental quantitative research design was utilized, employing the correlational method, which examines the relationship between two variables. The study involved 139 teachers selected through universal sampling, meaning all teachers in the population were considered for inclusion. Data were analyzed using the Mean and Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient (Pearson r). The results indicated that both classroom-based learning and curriculum procedures were at a moderate level. A significant relationship was found between the two variables. These findings suggest that integrating classroom-based learning can enhance curriculum procedures by providing teachers with the flexibility to adjust lesson pacing, methods, and content based on student needs. Classroom-based learning also encourages teachers to adopt a reflective approach to curriculum design and promotes collaboration among educators, which can improve teaching practices and student outcomes.
Personalized Medicine in Oncology Drug Development
Authors: Dracopoli Nicholas C. , Grewal Iqbal , Takimoto Chris H. , Lebowitz Peter F.
Published: December 2019

Overview

The concept of personalized medicine in oncology drug development is no longer an aspiration; it is now, in large measure, the accepted paradigm of how oncology drugs should be developed. In modern oncology drug development, determining which molecularly characterized tumors will benefit the most from a drug is a critical part of the development plan. In addition, another important personalized medicine approach is emerging whereby a therapeutic is specific to an individual patient. Examples of this individualized therapeutic approach include engineering of autologous immune cells with reinfusion into the patient or cancer vaccines that are specific to an individual tumor.

A growing number of successful examples have demonstrated that the personalized medicine approach via biomarker selection can provide more benefit to patients and more rapid approval of drugs. The benefits of a personalized medicine strategy in oncology drug development are multiple and include an increased probability of overall success, smaller phase 3 registration trials, and the potential for enhanced clinical benefits for patients. In a recent review, Falconi and colleagues examined the outcome of 676 phase 1, 2, and 3 clinical trials of novel therapeutics for non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) conducted from 1998 to 2012.1Overall, the cumulative success rate, as defined by the advancement to the next stage of clinical testing or to approval, was only 11%. However, when a biomarker was utilized for patient selection, the cumulative success rate increased by nearly sixfold to 62%. Thus, there is strong objective evidence for predictive biomarkers to enhance the probability of success in drug development. Using specific genetic and/or protein markers, a number of important drugs have been developed and approved in specific populations. This approach represents a paradigm shift that has proved so powerful that it is now a standard.

The European Society for Medical Oncology has published a Glossary on Precision Medicine2with important definitions. Additionally, a workshop regarding “The drug development paradigm in oncology” was held in Washington DC in December 2016 with the participation of multiple stakeholders (researchers, patient advocates and representatives from industry, academia, and government), and multiple strategies to improve drug development in oncology were discussed.3
Cell‐Based Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Patel Krina K. , Moyes Judy S. , Cooper Laurence J.
Published: December 2019

Overview

For decades, scientists have applied cell‐based immunotherapies for treatment of cancers. The successful administration of polyclonal populations of donor‐derived or autologous T cells is based in part on defining the precise cellular effectors and identifying tumor‐associated antigens (TAAs) that can be targeted to safely achieve an antitumor effect without engendering on‐target, but off‐tissue toxicity, such as manifested by graft‐versus‐host‐disease (GvHD). The adoptive transfer of T cells can reconstitute or enhance resident immunity, which is in contrast to the apparent limitations associated with vaccine‐based strategies in recipients whose endogenous immune system may fail to respond to immunogens. Other cytolytic circulating lymphocyte populations can be harnessed for infusion. These include allogeneic NK cells that may mediate an antitumor effect without
a priori
defining the TAA and perhaps without the risk of GvHD. In some cases, a TAA can be identified, for example, the B‐lineage TAA CD19, but host immune tolerance prevents the emergence of an effective immune response. Genetic engineering has been combined with T‐cell therapy to generate antigen‐specific cells
ex vivo
, through the enforced expression of chimeric antigen receptors (CARs). The adoptive transfer of CD19‐specific CAR
+
T cells has shown promise in initial clinical trials for successful disease control in patients with B‐cell malignancies resistant to conventional therapeutic modalities. In this chapter, we describe the current status of cell‐based immunotherapy for cancer.
Neoplasms of the Cervix
Authors: Jhingran Anuja , Rodriguez Ana M.
Published: December 2019

Overview

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in females, with an estimated 529,800 new cases and 275,100 deaths in the year 2008. The incidence is declining in the United States with 12,900 new cases and 4100 deaths in 2015. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common histology, with the human papilloma virus (HPV) being the most common etiology. Cervical cancer can be easily prevented with pap smears, HPV testing, and hopefully the HPV vaccine. Early‐stage cervix cancer can be treated with surgery including now fertility sparing surgery, and there are high cure rates. Local advance cervical cancer is treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy with high survival rates, but there is room for improvements with advancing stage. Systemic chemotherapy can be used for treatment of both recurrent and metastatic disease, but careful attention should be paid to balancing benefit and toxicity. The key to success will be the transportation of success seen in the developing countries to success in the areas of the world where advanced‐stage invasive cervical cancer is most common.
Leukocyte telomere length in patients with myotonic dystrophy type I: a pilot study
Authors: Wang Youjin , Best Ana , Fernández‐Torrón Roberto , Alsaggaf Rotana , Garcia‐Puga Mikel , Dagnall Casey L. , Hicks Belynda , Thompson Mone’t , Matheu Fernandez Ander , Zulaica Ijurco Miren , Greene Mark H. , Lopez de Munain Adolfo , Gadalla Shahinaz M.
Published: December 2019

Myotonic dystrophy type I (DM1) is an autosomal dominant disease of which clinical manifestations resemble premature aging. We evaluated the contribution of telomere length in pathogenesis in 361 DM1 patients (12 with serial measurements) and 223 unaffected relative controls using qPCR assay. While no differences in baseline leukocyte relative telomere length (RTL) was noted, the data suggested an accelerated RTL attrition in DM1 (discovery cohort: T/S change/year = −0.013 in DM1 vs. −0.005 in controls, P = 0.04); similar trend was noted in validation cohort. Further investigations are needed to examine the role of TL in the pathophysiology of DM1.
Study: Elevated risk of substance use if parents use marijuana
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2019

Last month, JAMA Network Open published a study indicating that recent and past parental marijuana use confers a heightened risk for use of marijuana — and other substances — by their adolescent and young adult offspring who live in the same household. The article from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the National Institute on Drug Abuse and McLean Hospital is in line with federal anti‐marijuana policy (marijuana is still illegal under federal law, although states have legalized it, both recreationally, in some cases, and medically, in more).
Stretching Induces Overexpression of RhoA and Rac1 GTPases in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Yadav Sharda , Barton Matthew , Nguyen Nam‐Trung
Published: December 2019

Rho GTPases are well known for regulating cell morphology and intracellular interactions. They can either be oncogenic or tumor suppressors. However, these proteins are associated with the acquirement of malignant features by cancer cells. It has been reported that the overexpression of protein markers of Rho family members such as RhoA and Rac1 is linked with carcinogenesis and the progression of a variety of human tumors. In this paper, the expression of RhoA and Rac1 activity in various types of breast cancers cell lines is evaluated. These cells are preconditioned by mechanically stretching them to simulate the extracellular physical forces placed upon on cancer cells. It is observed that stretching the cancer cells induces significantly higher expression of RhoA and Rac1 markers when compared to non‐stretched cells and stretched control cells in vitro. This stretching strategy helps to detect and quantify the signal when it is too weak to be detected. Furthermore, stretching enhances the assay by leading to overexpression of markers and makes the assay more sensitive. It is hypothesized that this inexpensive and relatively sensitive assay can potentially aid in the development of a diagnostic tool for cancer screening.
Properties of Powder Metallurgy‐Fabricated Oxygen‐Containing Beta Ti–Nb–Mo–Sn–Fe Alloys for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Dehghan-Manshadi Ali , Kent Damon , StJohn David , Dargusch Matthew
Published: December 2019

The influence of minor oxygen additions on the microstructure and mechanical properties of powder metallurgy (PM) fabricated Ti–25Nb–5Mo–3Sn–2Fe alloy is studied. The results demonstrate the positive influence of a certain oxygen content (0.35 wt%) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of sintered samples. Despite the presence of 7.0% porosity in the PM‐fabricated samples of Ti–25Nb–5Mo–3Sn–2Fe–0.35O, a high strength of 682 MPa, elongation of 7.2%, and Young's modulus of 74 GPa are obtained. The strength‐to‐modulus ratio of this alloy is higher than most common Ti biomedical alloys, indicating that this alloy may have better suitability for orthopedic applications. Deviation in the oxygen content of the alloy from 0.35 wt% negatively impacts on the ductility of the samples.
The contribution of hybridization to range‐wide population genetic structure in a Pacific coastal dune plant
Authors: López‐Villalobos Adriana , Eckert Christopher G.
Published: December 2019

Premise

Interspecific hybridization can cause genetic structure across species ranges if the mating system and degree of sympatry/parapatry with close relatives varies geographically. The coastal dune endemicCamissoniopsis cheiranthifolia(Onagraceae) exhibits genetic subdivisions across its range, some of which are associated with shifts in mating system from outcrossing to selfing, while others are not. For instance, strong differentiation between large‐flowered, self‐incompatible (LF‐SI) and large‐flowered, self‐compatible (LF‐SC) populations occurs without much reduction in outcrossing or obvious barriers to gene flow. We hypothesized thatLF‐SIdiverged fromLF‐SCvia hybridization with the predominantly inlandSIsister speciesC. bistorta.

Methods

We analyzed spatial proximity using 1460 herbarium records and genetic variation at 12 microsatellites assayed for 805 and 404 individuals from 32C. cheiranthifoliaand 18C. bistortapopulations, respectively. We also assayed nine chloroplast microsatellites for 124 and 111 individuals from 27 and 19 populations, respectively.

Results

Closer parapatry was associated with unexpectedly high genetic continuity betweenLF‐SIC. cheiranthifoliaandC. bistorta.LF‐SIgenotypes clustered withC. bistortaexclusive of otherC. cheiranthifoliagenotypes. Similarly, pairwiseFSTamongSIC. cheiranthifoliaandC. bistorta, adjusted for geographic proximity, was not higher between heterospecific than conspecific populations.

Conclusions

The lack of genetic differentiation betweenLF‐SIC. cheiranthifoliaandC. bistortapopulations, even those located away from the zone of parapatry, suggests that, instead of hybridizing withC. bistorta,LF‐SIC. cheiranthifoliais rather an ecotype ofC. bistortathat has adapted to coastal dune habitat independent of other lineages inC. cheiranthifoliaproper.
Racial Colorblindness and Confidence in and Likelihood of Action to Address Prejudice
Authors: Yi Jacqueline , Todd Nathan R. , Mekawi Yara
Published: December 2019

Highlights

This study examines the association between racial colorblindness and inaction to address prejudice.

We conceptualized colorblindness as a type of legitimizing ideology that maintains inequality.

Affective variables helped to explain the links between colorblindness and action.

Such links function similarly across White, Underrepresented, and Asian American students.
Ein Fall für die Bindungs‐Netzwerk‐Analyse bei der Synthese verbrückter polycyclischer komplexer Moleküle: Hetidin‐ und Hetisin‐Diterpen‐Alkaloide
Authors: Doering Nicolle A. , Sarpong Richmond , Hoffmann Reinhard W.
Published: December 2019

Eine zentrale Herausforderung bei der Synthese von Diterpen‐Alkaloiden besteht darin, Strategien zu identifizieren, mit denen sich die mehrfach verbrückten polycyclischen Gerüste schnell aufbauen lassen. Bisherige Ansätze für den Aufbau dieser strukturell komplexen Sekundär‐Metaboliten werden im Rahmen einer “Bindungs‐Netzwerk‐Analyse” von Molekülgerüsten diskutiert, die ursprünglich von Corey vor etwa vierzig Jahren entwickelt wurde. Die Retrosynthesepläne, die sich aus einer topologischen Analyse der hochverbrückten Gerüste der Diterpen‐Alkaloide ergeben, werden im Kontext von acht neueren Synthesen von Hetidin‐ und Hetisin‐Naturstoffen und deren Derivaten diskutiert. Dieser Kurzaufsatz zeigt, inwieweit Netzwerk‐Analysen der hier beschriebenen Art für die Erarbeitung von Syntheseplänen ausreichen und wo sie mit Funktionsgruppen‐orientierten Syntheseüberlegungen zusammengeführt werden mussten.
Selective and Wash‐Resistant Fluorescent Dihydrocodeinone Derivatives Allow Single‐Molecule Imaging of μ‐Opioid Receptor Dimerization
Authors: Gentzsch Christian , Seier Kerstin , Drakopoulos Antonios , Jobin Marie‐Lise , Lanoiselée Yann , Koszegi Zsombor , Maurel Damien , Sounier Rémy , Hübner Harald , Gmeiner Peter , Granier Sébastien , Calebiro Davide , Decker Michael
Published: December 2019

μ‐Opioid receptors (μ‐ORs) play a critical role in the modulation of pain and mediate the effects of the most powerful analgesic drugs. Despite extensive efforts, it remains insufficiently understood how μ‐ORs produce specific effects in living cells. We developed new fluorescent ligands based on the μ‐OR antagonist E‐p‐nitrocinnamoylamino‐dihydrocodeinone (CACO), that display high affinity, long residence time and pronounced selectivity. Using these ligands, we achieved single‐molecule imaging of μ‐ORs on the surface of living cells at physiological expression levels. Our results reveal a high heterogeneity in the diffusion of μ‐ORs, with a relevant immobile fraction. Using a pair of fluorescent ligands of different color, we provide evidence that μ‐ORs interact with each other to form short‐lived homodimers on the plasma membrane. This approach provides a new strategy to investigate μ‐OR pharmacology at single‐molecule level.
Facile Synthesis of Hierarchical Nanosized Single‐Crystal Aluminophosphate Molecular Sieves from Highly Homogeneous and Concentrated Precursors
Authors: Tao Shuo , Li Xiaolei , Wang Xiaoge , Wei Ying , Jia Yunling , Ju Jing , Cheng Yuanhui , Wang Huaisheng , Gong Shuwen , Yao Xingjun , Gao Haixu , Zhang Cunyin , Zang Qiqi , Tian Zhijian
Published: December 2019

The synthesis of hierarchical nanosized zeolite materials without growth modifiers and mesoporogens remains a substantial challenge. Herein, we report a general synthetic approach to produce hierarchical nanosized single‐crystal aluminophosphate molecular sieves by preparing highly homogeneous and concentrated precursors and heating at elevated temperatures. Accordingly, aluminophosphate zeotypes of LTA (8‐rings), AEL (10‐rings), AFI (12‐rings), and ‐CLO (20‐rings) topologies, ranging from small to extra‐large pores, were synthesized. These materials show exceptional properties, including small crystallites (30–150 nm), good monodispersity, abundant mesopores, and excellent thermal stability. A time‐dependent study revealed a non‐classical crystallization pathway by particle attachment. This work opens a new avenue for the development of hierarchical nanosized zeolite materials and understanding their crystallization mechanism.
A Case for Bond‐Network Analysis in the Synthesis of Bridged Polycyclic Complex Molecules: Hetidine and Hetisine Diterpenoid Alkaloids
Authors: Doering Nicolle A. , Sarpong Richmond , Hoffmann Reinhard W.
Published: December 2019

A key challenge in the synthesis of diterpenoid alkaloids lies in identifying strategies that rapidly construct their multiply bridged polycyclic skeletons. Existing approaches to these structurally intricate secondary metabolites are discussed in the context of a “bond‐network analysis” of molecular frameworks, which was originally devised by Corey some 40 years ago. The retrosynthesis plans that emerge from a topological analysis of the highly bridged frameworks of the diterpenoid alkaloids are discussed in the context of eight recent syntheses of hetidine and hetisine natural products and their derivatives. This Minireview highlights the extent to which network analyses of the type described here sufficed for designing synthesis plans, as well as areas where they had to be amalgamated with functional group oriented synthetic planning considerations.
Synthesis and characterization of thermosetting polyacetylene‐terminated silicone resins
Authors: Liu Zhongqi , Huang Yanchun , Deng Shifeng
Published: December 2019

A novel polyacetylene‐terminated silicone (PTS) resins possessing low curing temperature and high heat resistance has been prepared by Grignard reaction using m‐diacetylenylbenzene (DEB), 1,3,5‐triacetylenylbenzene(TEB), and dichlorosilane as original materials. The reaction of the functional groups was characterized by in situ Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. The experimental results indicated that Si─H and C≡CH bonds are almost exclusively involved in the crosslinking reaction, while ─C≡C─ bonds only partially react. Further, Si─H and C≡CH bonds can participate in the curing reaction at relatively low temperatures, but ─C≡C─ bonds require higher temperature, indicating the higher activity of Si─H and C≡CH bonds than ─C≡C─ bonds. As determined by differential scanning calorimetry, PTS resins have low peak exothermic temperature at 184.5 °C, which is lower than MSP resin (~ 210 °C); in addition, rheological test showed that PTS resins have a very wide processing window from 40 to 163.3 °C, indicating that the PTS resins have excellent processability with a low curing temperature and wide processing window. What is more, TGA results of thermal‐cured PTS resins revealed that Td5 (5% weight loss temperature) of PTS‐H10 reached the highest of 684.4 °C. Compared with PTS‐H0 resin, there is an increase of 124.2 °C and the remarkably increased heat resistance correlated with a higher m‐DEB input ratio. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48783.
Discovery of N‐pyridoyl‐Δ2‐pyrazolines as Hsp90 inhibitors
Authors: Kadasi Sundeep , Yerroju Ravali , Gaddam Swetha , Pullanagiri Nikhila , Chary Meghana , Pingili Divya , Raj Shiva , Raghavendra Nulgumnalli Manjunathaiah
Published: December 2019

Hsp90, as a key molecular chaperone, plays an important role in modulating the activity of many cell signaling proteins and is an attractive target for anticancer therapeutics. Herein, we report the discovery of N‐pyridoyl‐Δ2‐pyrazoline analogs as novel Hsp90 inhibitors by integrated approaches of drug design, organic synthesis, cell biology, and qualitative proteomic analysis. Novel chemical compounds were designed and optimized in the adenosine triphosphate‐binding site of Hsp90; lead optimized compounds were found to have significant interactions with Asp93 and other amino acids crucial for Hsp90 inhibition. The designed compounds were synthesized by a two‐step procedure; different aromatic aldehydes were reacted with various acetophenones to form substituted 1,3‐diphenyl‐prop‐2‐enones (Ic–Io), which upon reaction with isonicotinic acid hydrazide in the presence of glacial acetic acid form N‐pyridoyl‐Δ2‐pyrazoline compounds (PY1–PY13). Compounds PY3, PY2, and PY1 were identified as potential leads amongst the series, with promising anticancer activity against human breast cancer and melanoma cells, and the ability to inhibit Hsp90 similar to radicicol by drug‐affinity responsive target stability proteomic analysis in a whole‐cell assay.
Ancient Genomes Reveal Unexpected Horse Domestication and Management Dynamics
Authors: Orlando Ludovic
Published: December 2019

The horse was essential to past human societies but became a recreational animal during the twentieth century as the world became increasingly mechanized. As the author reviews here, recent studies of ancient genomes have revisited the understanding of horse domestication, from the very early stages to the most modern developments. They have uncovered several extinct lineages roaming the far ends of Eurasia some 4000 years ago. They have shown that the domestic horse has been significantly reshaped during the last millennium and experienced a sharp decline in genetic diversity within the last two centuries. At a time when no truly wild horses exist any longer, this calls for enhanced conservation in all endangered populations. These include the Przewalski's horse native to Mongolia, and the many local breeds side‐lined by the modern agenda, but yet representing the living heritage of over five millennia of horse breeding.
Investigation of Reactions Between Isothiazolinones and Cysteamine by Reactive Paper Spray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (Reactive PSI MS)
Authors: Choi Soobin , Cha Sangwon
Published: December 2019

Reactive ionization with atmospheric pressure ionization (API) methods have been utilized for mass spectrometry (MS) to enhance ionization efficiency of an analyte, to recognize a specific functional group of an analyte, and to investigate reaction pathways or intermediates for a certain in situ reaction. Paper spray ionization (PSI) is one of the major API techniques for reactive ionization. In reactive PSI, one of the reactants is usually spotted onto a paper tip and the other reactant is delivered through a spraying solution. After in situ reaction, reaction products are transported to the end of the tip and ionized. In this study, we investigated reactions between isothiazolinones (ITs) and cysteamine (CA) by reactive PSI MS. An IT is a heterocyclic compound that has a conjugated ketone moiety and used as a biocide or a preservative. CA is a stable aminothiol that is often used as a bifunctional covalent modifier. Through reactive PSI MS of ITs with CA, we found that a covalent modification of an IT by CA was possible and sensitivities for ITs were improved compared to conventional PSI MS of ITs that did not employ CA. In addition, possible reaction pathways between ITs and CA during reactive PSI were suggested although we could not confirm a specific reaction pathway in the current study.
Jupiter microtubule‐associated homolog 1 (JPT1): A predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarker of metformin response in endometrial cancers
Authors: Bateman Nicholas W. , Teng Pang‐Ning , Hope Erica , Hood Brian L. , Oliver Julie , Ao Wei , Zhou Ming , Wang Guisong , Tommarello Domenic , Wilson Katlin , Litzy Tracy , Conrads Kelly A. , Hamilton Chad A. , Darcy Kathleen M. , Casablanca Yovanni , Maxwell George Larry , Bae‐Jump Victoria , Conrads Thomas P.
Published: December 2019

Preoperative use of metformin in obese women with endometrioid endometrial cancer (EEC) reduces tumor proliferation and inhibits the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, though is only effective in select cases. This study sought to identify a predictive and/or pharmacodynamic proteomic signature of metformin response to tailor its pharmacologic use. Matched pre‐ and post‐metformin‐treated tumor tissues from a recently completed preoperative window trial of metformin in EEC patients (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01911247) were analyzed by mass spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomic and immunohistochemical analyses. Jupiter microtubule‐associated homolog 1 (JPT1) was significantly elevated in metformin responders (n = 13) vs nonresponders (n = 7), and found to decrease in abundance in metformin responders following treatment; observations that were verified by immunohistochemical staining for JPT1. Metformin response and loss of JPT1 were assessed in RL95‐2 and ACI‐181 endometrial cancer (EC) cell lines. We further identified that silencing of JPT1 abundance does not alter cellular response to metformin or basal cell proliferation, but that JPT1 abundance does decrease in response to metformin treatment in RL95‐2 and ACI‐181 EC cell lines. These data suggest that JPT1 represents a predictive and pharmacodynamic biomarker of metformin response that, if validated in larger patient populations, may enable preoperative EEC patient stratification to metformin treatment and the ability to monitor patient response.
The case for philanthropic investment to increase colorectal cancer screening rates: A novel paradigm to address a public health challenge
Authors: Carmeli Ariel , Dranikoff Lee , Kundu Arnab , Ladabaum Uri
Published: December 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer‐related death despite being highly preventable. Efforts to increase participation in CRC screening have not met national goals. We developed a novel approach: building a business case for philanthropic investment in CRC screening.

Methods

A taskforce representing the public health community, professional societies, charitable foundations, academia, and industry was assembled to: (a) quantify the impact of improving CRC screening rates; (b) identify barriers to screening; (c) estimate the “activation cost” to overcome barriers and screen one additional person; (d) develop a holistic business case that is attractive to philanthropists; and (e) launch a demonstration project.

Results

We estimated that of 50 600 CRC deaths annually in the US, 55% occur in 50‐ to 85‐year‐olds and are potentially addressable by improvements in CRC screening. Barriers to screening were identified in all patient journey phases, including lack of awareness or insurance and logistical challenges in the pre‐physician phase. The cost to activate one person to undergo screening was $25‐175. This translated into a cost of $6000‐36 000 per CRC death averted by philanthropic investment. Based on this work, the Colorectal Cancer Alliance launched the effort “March Forth” to prevent 100 000 CRC deaths in the US over 10 years, with the first pilot in Philadelphia.

Conclusions

A holistic business plan can attract philanthropy to promote CRC screening. A simple message of “You can save a life from CRC with a $25 000 donation” can motivate demonstration projects in regions with high CRC rates and low screening participation.
Cognitive complexity of social images revealed by Jewish Israeli adolescents relating to drawings of Jews and Arabs
Authors: Teichman Yona , Stein Hila , Shechner Tomer
Published: December 2019

The present study examined age‐related differences among Israeli youth regarding the complexity of their mental images of Jews and Arabs, two groups that are adversaries in the Middle East conflict. The participants, 494 Jewish children and adolescents ranging from 8–16 years old each, drew two human figures, one Jewish and one Arab, and then attributed a forename and a profession to each drawn image. Four complexity variables were scored as follows: image complexity (number of items included in the figure), embellishments (number of items added to the drawing and in the space around the figure), image name, and image profession. Overall, participants depicted members of their in‐group as more complex. However, early adolescence was found to be a critical age at which differences emerged. The findings suggest that introducing complexity to social representations in early adolescence may facilitate prevention of negative associations related to outgroups and enhance intervention to reduce stereotypes, prejudice, and racism.
More than medication: The importance of family treatments for pediatric bipolar disorder
Authors: MacPherson Heather A.
Published: December 2019

Pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD) is a chronic and debilitating illness characterized by episodic mood disturbance (e.g., extreme irritability, euphoria, and/or depression), accompanying symptoms (e.g., energy shifts, sleep disruption, cognitive disturbance of self/abilities, suicidality), high rates of comorbidities, and considerable functional impairment. Although PBD has biological underpinnings, cognitive, behavioral, and environmental stressors can trigger or exacerbate depressive and manic symptoms. Thus, while pharmacotherapy is effective for controlling biological contributions to mood episodes, psychotherapy is also necessary to target psychosocial factors that may activate or worsen symptoms in PBD, and to address associated academic, interpersonal, and functional impairment.
Self‐Standing Hydrogels Composed of Conducting Polymers for All‐Hydrogel‐State Supercapacitors
Authors: Yang Zhaokun , Shi Dongjian , Dong Weifu , Chen Mingqing
Published: December 2019

Conducting polymer hydrogels that are capable of contacting with electrolytes at the molecular level, represent an important electrode material. However, the fabrication of self‐standing hydrogels merely composed of conducting polymers is still challenging owing to the absence of reliable methods. Herein, a novel and facile macromolecular interaction assisted route is reported to fabricate self‐standing hydrogels consisting of polyaniline (PANi: providing high electrochemical activity) and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT: enabling high electronic conductivity). Owing to the synergistic effect between them, the self‐standing hydrogels possess good mechanical properties and electronic/electrochemical performances, making them an excellent potential electrode for solid‐state energy storage devices. A proof‐of‐concept all‐hydrogel‐state supercapacitor is fabricated, which exhibits a high areal capacitance of 808.2 mF cm−2, and a high energy density of 0.63 mWh cm−3 at high power density of 28.42 mW cm−3, superior to many recently reported conducting polymer hydrogels based supercapacitors. This study demonstrates a novel promising strategy to fabricate self‐standing conducting polymer hydrogels.
Trends of stress and stress coping in patients with atopic dermatitis: Analysis using the brief coping orientation to problems experienced inventory
Authors: Kaneko Sakae , Sumikawa Yasuyuki , Murota Hiroyuki , Tabara Mayuko , Katayama Ichiro , Morita Eishin
Published: December 2019

Background

The nature of the stress experienced by adult atopic dermatitis (AD) patients is not fully understood.

Objectives

We investigated the experience of stress in these patients and their coping methods using a questionnaire.

Methods

Fifty‐one AD patients under the care of the Department of Dermatology at Shimane University Hospital and 50 AD patients under the care of the Department of Dermatology at Sapporo Medical University Hospital were surveyed. The Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) inventory was used to examine coping.

Results

The most common cause of stress associated with AD was work, followed by the presence of allergy symptoms and being ill. The patients reported using positive coping methods such as self‐distraction and humor, and negative coping methods such as behavioral disengagement and self‐blame. Women used coping methods significantly more often than men, and patients aged 30 years and older used alcohol as a coping strategy more often than younger patients. Patients with severe conditions used coping methods less frequently. A group that experienced stress often used positive reframing less frequently, but more often used methods such as emotional support, substance use, behavioral disengagement, and self‐blame.

Conclusions

We observed differences in stress coping based on gender, age, severity of AD symptoms, severity of stress, and how stress was experienced, which highlights the importance of dealing with stress in ways that take the AD patient's characteristics into consideration.
Patient‐hematologist discordance in perceived chance of cure in hematologic malignancies: A multicenter study
Authors: Loh Kah Poh , Xu Huiwen , Back Anthony , Duberstein Paul R. , Gupta Mohile Supriya , Epstein Ronald , McHugh Colin , Klepin Heidi D. , Abel Gregory , Lee Stephanie J. , El‐Jawahri Areej , LeBlanc Thomas W.
Published: December 2019

Background

Ensuring that patients with hematologic malignancies have an accurate understanding of their likelihood of cure is important for informed decision making. In a multicenter, longitudinal study, the authors examined discordance in patients' perception of their chance of cure versus that of their hematologists, whether patient‐hematologist discordance changed after a consultation with a hematologist, and factors associated with persistent discordance.

Methods

Before and after consultation with a hematologist, patients were asked about their perceived chance of cure (options were <10%, 10%‐19%, and up to 90%‐100% in 10% increments, and “do not wish to answer”). Hematologists were asked the same question after consultation. Discordance was defined as a difference in response by 2 levels. The McNemar test was used to compare changes in patient‐hematologist prognostic discordance from before to after consultation. A generalized linear mixed model was used to examine associations between factors and postconsultation discordance, adjusting for clustering at the hematologist level.

Results

A total of 209 patients and 46 hematologists from 4 sites were included in the current study. Before consultation, approximately 61% of dyads were discordant, which improved to 50% after consultation (P < .01). On multivariate analysis, lower educational level (<college vs postgraduate: odds ratio [OR], 2.24; 95% CI, 1.02‐4.92), higher social support–affection subscale score (1‐unit change in score: OR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.00‐1.32), and discordance before consultation (OR, 6.17; 95% CI, 2.99‐12.72) were found to be significantly associated with discordance after consultation.

Conclusions

Patient‐hematologist concordance in prognostic understanding appears to improve after a hematology consultation, but approximately one‐half of patients' views of their prognoses were found to remain discordant with those of their hematologists. Interventions are needed to improve prognostic understanding among patients with hematologic malignancies.
Numerical evaluation of cardiac mechanical markers as estimators of the electrical activation time
Authors: Colli Franzone Piero , Pavarino Luca F. , Scacchi Simone
Published: December 2019

Recent advances in the development of noninvasive cardiac imaging technologies have made it possible to measure longitudinal and circumferential strains at a high spatial resolution also at intramural level. Local mechanical activation times derived from these strains can be used as noninvasive estimates of electrical activation, in order to determine, eg, the origin of premature ectopic beats during focal arrhythmias or the pathway of reentrant circuits. The aim of this work is to assess the reliability of mechanical activation time markers derived from longitudinal and circumferential strains, denoted by ATell and ATecc, respectively, by means of three‐dimensional cardiac electromechanical simulations. These markers are compared against the electrical activation time (ATv), computed from the action potential waveform, and the reference mechanical activation markers derived from the active tension and fiber strain waveforms, denoted by ATta and ATeff, respectively. Our numerical simulations are based on a strongly coupled electromechanical model, including bidomain representation of the cardiac tissue, mechanoelectric (ie, stretch‐activated channels) and geometric feedbacks, transversely isotropic strain energy function for the description of passive mechanics and detailed membrane and excitation‐contraction coupling models. The results have shown that, during endocardial and epicardial ectopic stimulations, all the mechanical markers considered are highly correlated with ATv, exhibiting correlation coefficients larger than 0.8. However, during multiple endocardial stimulations, mimicking the ventricular sinus rhythm, the mechanical markers are less correlated with the electrical activation time, because of the more complex resulting excitation sequence. Moreover, the inspection of the endocardial and epicardial isochrones has shown that the ATell and ATecc mechanical activation sequences reproduce only some qualitative features of the electrical activation sequence, such as the areas of early and late activation, but in some cases, they might yield wrong excitation sources and significantly different isochrones patterns.
Bis(Acylhydrazone)‐Based Bolaamphiphiles: Effect of Spacer Length on Metalloorganogel Formation, Fluorescence, and Conductance Properties
Authors: Kumar Dixit Manish , Kumar Yeeshu , Shukla Jay , Mahendar Chinthakuntla , Dubey Mrigendra
Published: December 2019

Gelation of chain‐length‐selective bolaamphiphiles (1 % w/v) from succinic (n=2, H2SL) and adipic acid (n=4, H2AL) derived ligands from six different bis(acylhydrazone)‐based saturated homologous dicarboxlylates has been demonstrated. Deprotonation of H2SL (SL2−) with LiOH led to the formation of a fluorescent metalloorganogel upon addition of Cd(OAc)2. The coordination complexes responsible for metalloorganogel or solution formation have been studied with UV/Vis, Job's plot, ESI‐MS and fluorescence studies. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of the diluted metalloorganogel revealed unusual nanospherical aggregates (∼50 nm diameter) aligned together to create fibrous morphology, which was further supported by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging. Nyquist impedance plot indicated that the metalloorganogel has a much lower resistance (R1=3.6 kΩ) than its non‐gelling counterpart (R2=5.6 kΩ) suggesting the formation of well‐organized fibres.
Value‐Added Formate Production from Selective Methanol Oxidation as Anodic Reaction to Enhance Electrochemical Hydrogen Cogeneration
Authors: Li Mei , Deng Xiaohui , Xiang Kun , Liang Yue , Zhao Bin , Hao Jie , Luo Jing‐Li , Fu Xian‐Zhu
Published: December 2019

Electrolytic overall water splitting is a promising approach to produce H2, but its efficiency is severely limited by the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and the low activity of current electrocatalysts. To solve these problems, in addition to the development of efficient precious‐metal catalysts, an effective strategy is proposed to replace the OER by the selective methanol oxidation reaction. Ni–Co hydroxide [NixCo1−x(OH)2] nanoarrays were obtained through a facile hydrothermal treatment as the bifunctional electrocatalysts for the co‐electrolysis of methanol/water to produce H2 and value‐added formate simultaneously. The electrocatalyst could catalyze selective methanol oxidation (≈1.32 V) with a significantly lower energy consumption (≈0.2 V less) than OER. Importantly, methanol was transformed exclusively to value‐added formate with a high Faradaic efficiency (selectivity) close to 100 %. Specifically, a cell voltage of only approximately 1.5 V was required to generate a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the Ni0.33Co0.67(OH)2/Ni foam nanoneedle arrays presented an outstanding stability for overall co‐electrolysis.
Kinetic‐diffusion asymptotic‐preserving Monte Carlo algorithms for plasma edge neutral simulation
Authors: Mortier Bert , Baelmans Martine , Samaey Giovanni
Published: December 2019

We developed novel Monte Carlo simulation strategies for the neutral model in plasma edge simulations where both low‐collisional and high‐collisional regimes are present. To maintain accuracy and reduce simulation costs in high‐collisional regimes, we use hybridized particles that exhibit both kinetic and diffusive behaviour depending on the local collisionality. The method maintains an asymptotically correct distribution and a correct mean, variance, and time correlation for all values of the collisionality. We apply this scheme to a fusion case with a strongly heterogeneous background, prompting the inclusion of a diffusion‐induced drift. Our numerical results show a large increase in efficiency at the expense of a minor bias.
Combined effects of global climate change and nutrient enrichment on the physiology of three temperate maerl species
Authors: Qui-Minet Zujaila Nohemy , Coudret Jérôme , Davoult Dominique , Grall Jacques , Mendez‐Sandin Miguel , Cariou Thierry , Martin Sophie
Published: December 2019

Made up of calcareous coralline algae, maerl beds play a major role as ecosystem engineers in coastal areas throughout the world. They undergo strong anthropogenic pressures, which may threaten their survival. The aim of this study was to gain insight into the future of maerl beds in the context of global and local changes. We examined the effects of rising temperatures (+3°C) and ocean acidification (−0.3 pH units) according to temperature and pH projections (i.e., the RCP 8.5 scenario), and nutrient (N and P) availability on three temperate maerl species (Lithothamnion corallioides, Phymatolithon calcareum, and Lithophyllum incrustans) in the laboratory in winter and summer conditions. Physiological rates of primary production, respiration, and calcification were measured on all three species in each treatment and season. The physiological response of maerl to global climate change was species‐specific and influenced by seawater nutrient concentrations. Future temperature–pH scenario enhanced maximal gross primary production rates in P. calcareum in winter and in L. corallioides in both seasons. Nevertheless, both species suffered an impairment of light harvesting and photoprotective mechanisms in winter. Calcification rates at ambient light intensity were negatively affected by the future temperature–pH scenario in winter, with net dissolution observed in the dark in L. corallioides and P. calcareum under low nutrient concentrations. Nutrient enrichment avoided dissolution under future scenarios in winter and had a positive effect on L. incrustans calcification rate in the dark in summer. In winter conditions, maximal calcification rates were enhanced by the future temperature–pH scenario on the three species, but P. calcareum suffered inhibition at high irradiances. In summer conditions, the maximal calcification rate dropped in L. corallioides under the future global climate change scenario, with a potential negative impact on CaCO3 budget for maerl beds in the Bay of Brest where this species is dominant. Our results highlight how local changes in nutrient availability or irradiance levels impact the response of maerl species to global climate change and thus point out how it is important to consider other abiotic parameters in order to develop management policies capable to increase the resilience of maerl beds under the future global climate change scenario.