bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chiral Eutectic Mixtures and Deep Eutectic Solvents for Induced Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Nelson Brian , VandenElzen Liam , Whitacre Grace , Hopkins Todd A.
Published: September 2021

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) or eutectic mixtures prepared with a chiral component can lead to new chiral solvents with applications that include asymmetric synthesis and chiral light emitting materials. DES have low melting points, because of strong interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, between components of the mixture. Mixtures are prepared with ammonium salts, tetrabutylammonium chloride ([TBA]Cl) and choline chloride ([Ch]Cl), as hydrogen bond acceptor (HBA) and L‐lactic acid, L‐leucic acid, L‐ascorbic acid, R/S‐acetoxypropionic acid, and methyl‐(S)‐lactate as chiral hydrogen bond donors (HBD). Eight combinations of the HBAs and HBDs were prepared, and a racemic mixture of dissymmetric chiral europium complexes was dissolved in the mixtures. The circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) spectra were measured to determine the chiral discrimination by these chiral solvents. The CPL spectra show that the handedness of the chiral HBD is important to the chiral discrimination exhibited. However, the inversion of the sign of the CPL spectra in 1 : 3 [TBA]Cl:L‐lactic acid vs. 1 : 3 [Ch]Cl:L‐lactic acid, and 1 : 1.5 [Ch]Cl:L‐leucic acid vs. 1 : 1 [TBA]Cl:L‐leucic acid shows that the achiral HBA also plays a critical role in the handedness of the chiral discrimination by the chiral solvent.
A distributed swarm intelligence‐based energy‐saving method among massive edge nodes
Authors: Qi Jianpeng , Ren Suli , Wang Boran , Wang Rui
Published: September 2021

In edge computing, how to save energy among sustainable edge nodes is a hot topic. ON/OFF switching of edge nodes as a key point is efficient but still suffers from the long round‐trip time problem because of its centralized control manner. Especially in the wireless network, service coverage is proved to be NP‐Complete. To this end, we propose a Distributed Swarm intelligence‐based Energy‐saving algorithm (DSE). In DSE, pheromone and residual energy are used to calculate the wake‐up probability. Through the wake‐up probability, the edge node can be activated periodically and efficiently. In order to balance the energy in the whole system that contains massive edge nodes, we further use a correction factor, that is, DSE+, to adjust the wake‐up probability of the nodes. The proposed methods allow for distributed implementation without requiring a centralized control by the coordinator, and the pheromone accumulated temporally and spatially. In addition, they do not require node localization. Experiments show that both DSE and DSE+ can work as expected, and DSE+ with the correction factor improves the lifetime of the whole system at least 12.6% compared with the DSE without the correction factor.
Transferability of correlative and process‐based species distribution models revisited: A response to Booth
Authors: Higgins Steven I. , Larcombe Matthew J. , Beeton Nicholas J. , Conradi Timo
Published: September 2021

Here, we respond to Booth's criticism of our paper, “Predictive ability of a process‐based versus a correlative species distribution model.” Booth argues that our usage of the MaxEnt model was flawed and that the conclusions of our paper are by implication flawed. We respond by clarifying that the error Booth implies we made was not made in our analysis, and we repeat statements from the original manuscript which anticipated such criticisms. In addition, we illustrate that using BIOCLIM variables in a MaxEnt analysis as recommended by Booth does not change the conclusions of the original analysis. That is, high performance in the training data domain did not equate to reliable predictions in novel data domains, and the process model transferred into novel data domains better than the correlative model did. We conclude by discussing a hidden implication of our study, namely, that process‐based SDMs negate the need for BIOCLIM‐type variables and therefore reframe the variable selection problem in species distribution modeling.
Building a Resilient Grid to Combat and Adapt to Changing Climate Conditions
Authors: Shin Jane , Tiwari Ashish , Aweh Amanda , Weishaeupl Simon
Published: September 2021

What made Wayne Gretzky the greatest hockey player of all time was not his speed or the uncanny accuracy of his shots, but rather his ability to predict where the puck was going to be an instant before it arrived. Utilities will never be able to predict the future perfectly. Like Gretzky, however, the ability to better anticipate events and patterns will make them more prepared for increasingly extreme weather. In this article, the authors discuss how utilities have historically prepared for weather events, the challenges posed by changing climate conditions, and how some leading utilities are adapting to the new normal.
Role of Government Institutions in National Energy Policy1
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: September 2021

As readers of this column are aware, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), is an independent agency organized within the US Department of Energy (DOE) and critically important in articulating and implementing federal energy policy. FERC provides the leadership necessary in establishing wholesale power market rules and supporting private sector investment in infrastructure development, and in market valuation and pricing of assets in energy markets. The impetus introducing competition in electricity markets began in 1978 with enactment of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA). PURPA required that vertically integrated utilities—owning generation, transmission and distribution—purchase power from generators/producers that could produce electricity at a cost that was less than the utility's avoided cost (the cost at which the utility itself could have generated electricity). PURPA provided the opportunity for competition in generation where non‐utility independent power producers could build, operate, and compete with existing utility power generation.
Improving US Energy Security: Granting FERC Siting Authority over Interstate High Voltage Electric Transmission
Authors: Russo Thomas N.
Published: September 2021

The Biden Administration and the US Congress are giving serious consideration to granting the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) the authority to site high voltage (HV) interstate electric transmission lines. FERC already has authority under the Natural Gas Act (NGA) to regulate the siting of and rates charged by interstate natural gas pipelines and storage facilities. Proponents of giving FERC such additional authority point to the extensive buildout of the natural gas pipeline system. These proponents believe that FERC could do the same with interstate HV electric transmission.
Potential for cost savings with pharmacy intern‐led inpatient clinical services
Authors: Keil Elizabeth C. , Kovacich Nikolas , Siegler Abbey , Dawson Jordan , Gilliam Eric H.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Paid clinical pharmacy internships serve important roles for pharmacy students, health systems, and pharmacy departments. The Denver Health Medical Center Pharmacy Internship program incorporates progressive clinical responsibilities for advancing pharmacy students. Cost savings associated with clinical pharmacy interns have not been well studied.

Objectives

This study describes the potential cost savings of intern‐led clinical services and provides a rationale for medical centers to expand clinical roles for pharmacy interns.

Methods

This single center retrospective review of pharmacy intern clinical activities evaluated pharmacy intern‐initiated interventions between January 1, 2017 and February 28, 2018. After completing 2 years of pharmacy operations focused training, third year pharmacy interns were trained to provide numerous clinical interventions under the supervision of staff pharmacists. Interventions and their associated cost savings were documented using standardized templates and predetermined default settings available in the electronic medical record after standard procedures used by clinical staff pharmacists. Labor costs were determined form payroll records for paid interns during the study period. Net cost‐benefits were determined by subtracting aggregated cost savings of clinical interventions from labor costs for employed interns during the same time period.

Results

Five interns documented 336 interventions totaling $94 681 (mean $281.79) in associated cost savings. Sixty‐six percent of interventions were identified as high clinical significance by the department. The labor costs for the five interns totaled $7332.40 equating to an hourly cost savings of $193.00 for each hour of paid intern time. The average time to complete an intervention was 20 minutes. The most frequently documented interventions were providing anticoagulation therapeutic drug monitoring (67.3%) and antimicrobial stewardship interventions (21.4%).

Conclusions

During the study period, clinical interns generated a greater cost savings for the institution than the labor cost associated with their paid time. This study supports the expanded role of pharmacy interns to include clinical activities.
Comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics of hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with severe/critical illness in the first wave versus the second wave
Authors: Sargin Altunok Elif , Satici Celal , Dinc Veysel , Kamat Sadettin , Alkan Mustafa , Demirkol Mustafa Asim , Toprak Ilkim Deniz , Kostek Muhammed Emin , Yazla Semih , Esatoglu Sinem Nihal
Published: September 2021

Due to current advances and growing experience in the management of coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19), the outcome of COVID‐19 patients with severe/critical illness would be expected to be better in the second wave compared with the first wave. As our hospitalization criteria changed in the second wave, we aimed to investigate whether a favorable outcome occurred in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with only severe/critical illness. Among 642 laboratory‐confirmed hospitalized COVID‐19 patients in the first wave and 1121 in the second wave, those who met World Health Organization (WHO) definitions for severe or critical illness on admission or during follow‐up were surveyed. Data on demographics, comorbidities, C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels on admission, and outcomes were obtained from an electronic hospital database. Univariate analysis was performed to compare the characteristics of patients in the first and second waves. There were 228 (35.5%) patients with severe/critical illness in the first wave and 681 (60.7%) in the second wave. Both groups were similar in terms of age, gender, and comorbidities, other than chronic kidney disease. Median serum CRP levels were significantly higher in patients in the second wave compared with those in the first wave [109 mg/L (interquartile range [IQR]: 65–157) vs. 87 mg/L (IQR: 39–140); p < 0.001]. However, intensive care unit admission and mortality rates were similar among the waves. Even though a lower mortality rate in the second wave has been reported in previous studies, including all hospitalized COVID‐19 patients, we found similar demographics and outcomes among hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with severe/critical illness in the first and second wave.
Characterization of Pestalotiopsis sp. causing gray leaf spot in coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan Md. Abdullahil Baki , Sultana Nasrin , Mahmud Nur U. , Kader Md. Abdul , Hassan Oliul , Chang Taehyun , Islam Tofazzal , Akanda Abdul M.
Published: September 2021

Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is one of the most important fruit trees in Bangladesh. This tree is susceptible to various pathogens. Among them, a fungus was consistently isolated from gray leaf spot symptom in coconut. This study aimed to isolate, characterize, and find the management strategies of the causal fungus of gray leaf spot disease in coconut. Both morphological and molecular characters identified the pathogen as Pestalotiopsis sp. for the first time in Bangladesh. Artificial inoculation of this fungus showed symptoms similar to those previously observed in the field. Cross‐inoculation test suggests that Pestalotiopsis sp. has a wide host range. The infection process of Pestalotiopsis sp. started at 2 h after inoculation (hai) with the formation of germ tube followed by the formation of infection hyphae, which penetrated directly into the host at 6 hai. Gray leaf spot symptom was developed at 120 hai. Numerous conidia developed from the acervuli at 168 hai. These conidia acted as the source of inocula for secondary infection. The optimum temperature for the growth of Pestalotiopsis sp. was 25°C, however, the growth of Pestalotiopsis sp. ceased at 15°C and 35°C. This pathogen was completely inhibited by Autostin 50 WDG (carbendazim) at 100 ppm. Trichoderma viride (Pb‐7) was found as the potential biocontrol agent against Pestalotiopsis sp. These findings could contribute to describing the disease cycle and epidemiology of Pestalotiopsis sp. that would ultimately require to undertake effective control measures against this pathogen.
Intra‐observer agreements in multidisciplinary team assessments of pancreatic cancer patients
Authors: Kirkegård Jakob , Al‐Saiddi Mohammed , Bratlie Svein Olav , Coolsen Marielle , de Haas Robbert J. , den Dulk Marcel , Fristrup Claus , Greve Ole Jacob , Harrison Ewen , Koutouzi Giasemi , Miclea Razvan L. , Mortensen Michael B. , Nijkamp Maarten W. , Persson Jan , Robertson Francis P. , Slangen Jules J.G. , Søreide Jon Arne , Wigmore Stephen J. , Mortensen Frank V.
Published: September 2021

Background and Methods

Treatment strategies for pancreatic cancer patients are made by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) board. We aimed to assess intra‐observer variance at MDT boards. Participating units staged, assessed resectability, and made treatment allocations for the same patients as they did two years earlier. We disseminated clinical information and CT images of pancreatic cancer patients judged by one MDT board to have nonmetastatic pancreatic cancer to the participating units. All units were asked to re‐assess the TNM stage, resectability, and treatment allocation for each patient. To assess intra‐observer variance, we computed %‐agreements for each participating unit, defined as low (<50%), moderate (50%–75%), and high (>75%) agreement.

Results

Eighteen patients were re‐assessed by six MDT boards. The overall agreement was moderate for TNM‐stage (ranging from 50%–70%) and resectability assessment (53%) but low for treatment allocation (46%). Agreement on resectability assessments was low to moderate. Findings were similar but more pronounced for treatment allocation. We observed a shift in treatment strategy towards increasing use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy, particularly in patients with borderline resectable and locally advanced tumors.

Conclusions

We found substantial intra‐observer agreement variations across six different MDT boards of 18 pancreatic cancer patients with two years between the first and second assessment.
Therapeutic effects of different polar fractions of hawthorn extract on blood stasis model rats revealed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry metabolomics
Authors: Luo Lan , Xue Qi , Qi Yue , Zeng Lu , Liang Shengwang
Published: September 2021

Hawthorn, a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine, has been suggested to have therapeutic effects on cardiovascular disease. However, effective fractions of hawthorn extract in the treatment of cardiovascular disease, together with possible therapeutic mechanisms, remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of four different polar fractions of hawthorn extract on blood stasis model rats, and explore the possible metabolic mechanisms by using a liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry metabolomics approach. Evaluation of hemorheology and fibrinogen showed that n‐butanol and ethyl acetate fractions of hawthorn extract had significant therapeutic effects on blood stasis model rats. Furthermore, metabolomics analysis showed that n‐butanol and ethyl acetate fractions of hawthorn extract could reverse imbalanced biomarkers in plasma and urine of blood stasis model rats. Additionally, metabolic pathway analysis revealed that plasma biomarkers were responsible for several important pathways, including d‐glutamine and d‐glutamate metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism, and arginine biosynthesis. Meanwhile, urine biomarkers were responsible for some important pathways, including phenylalanine metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, and lysine degradation. This study demonstrated that n‐butanol and ethyl acetate fractions of hawthorn extract had significant therapeutic effects on blood stasis model rats, and the underlying mechanisms involved multiple metabolic pathways.
Factors associated with low medication adherence in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus attending a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Islam Md. Tauhidul , Uddin Riaz , Tansi Tania , Talukder Shamim , Sarker Farhana , Mamun Khondaker Abdullah Al , Adibi Sasan , Rawal Lal B
Published: September 2021

Background

Adherence to prescribed medication is essential for glycemic control and to delay the onset of complications. However, information on medication adherence among patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus is sparse in Bangladesh. This study aimed to determine medication adherence and factors associated with low adherence in patients with Type 2 diabetes in Bangladesh.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 500 consecutive patients with Type 2 diabetes attending a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh between September 2013 and July 2014. Data were collected on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, medication use and adherence, and blood tests for glycated hemoglobin. Medication adherence was assessed using the 8‐item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (score range 0–8), and a score < 6 was defined as low adherence. Multiple logistic regression modeling was used to investigate factors associated with low medication adherence.

Results

The mean age ± standard deviation of the participants was 50.2 ± 10.2 years (56.2% females). Overall, 42.8% (95% confidence interval (CI): 38.5–47.2) of participants reported low medication adherence with no differences by sex. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that increased age was negatively associated with low adherence (odds ratio: 0.97 [95% CI 0.95–0.99]). Patients who reported no family history of diabetes had 55% higher odds of having low adherence (1.55 [1.05–2.30]), compared to their counterparts with a family history of diabetes.

Conclusion

Almost half of the patients with Type 2 diabetes attending a tertiary hospital in Dhaka had suboptimal medication adherence. Innovative approaches targeting young patients and those with no family history of diabetes could improve medication adherence.
New evaluation of species‐specific biogenic silica flux of radiolarians (Rhizaria) in the western Arctic Ocean using microfocus X‐ray computed tomography
Authors: Ikenoue Takahito , Kimoto Katsunori , Nakamura Yuriko , Bjørklund Kjell R. , Kuramoto Naoki , Ueki Masaaki , Ota Yuichi , Onodera Jonaotaro , Harada Naomi , Honda Makio C. , Sato Miyako , Watanabe Eiji , Itoh Motoyo , Nishino Shigeto , Kikuchi Takashi
Published: September 2021

We studied time‐series fluxes of radiolarian particles collected by two sediment traps deployed at the eastern (Sta. NAP12t) and western (Sta. CAP12t) sides of the Chukchi Borderland in the Chukchi Sea from 04 October 2012 to 18 September 2013. In order to elucidate the contribution of radiolarian skeletons to the biogenic silica flux, a three‐dimensional (3D) imaging technique using microfocus X‐ray computed tomography (MXCT) was applied to radiolarian siliceous skeletons. We calculated volumes of individual radiolarian skeletons accurately using a 3D model of them, thereby estimating the mass of silica for each radiolarian species. The time‐series fluxes of radiolarian abundance were combined with the mass of radiolarian silica and were transformed to estimate fluxes of radiolarian silica. As a result, we found that the main carrier of radiolarian silica in the western Arctic Ocean was represented by only two species; that is, Amphimelissa setosa (averages: 55.2 wt% at Sta. NAP12t, 70.8 wt% at Sta. CAP12t) and Spongotrochus glacialis (averages: 36.7 wt% at Sta. NAP12t, 23.2 wt% at Sta. CAP12t). The total radiolarian silica flux was usually higher in the eastern side than that in the western side of the Chukchi Borderland. The contribution of radiolarian silica to the biogenic silica flux was less than 10 wt% in general during the sampling duration, but occasionally reached 19.6–34.8 wt% during the open water season. This suggests that not only diatoms but also radiolarians make a significant contribution in driving the silica cycle in the Arctic Ocean.
The tribological response of nanoparticles' equivalent diameter to the oil film thickness
Authors: Gao Kai , Chang Qiuying , Wang Bin , Gao Rongqin
Published: September 2021

Magnesium silicate hydroxide (hydrated magnesium silicate, MSH) nanoparticles with different sizes and morphologies were prepared. The equivalent diameter (De) was introduced to transform morphology difference into size difference. The tribological tests showed that the anti‐wear property of nanoparticles is highly related to the De and the oil film thickness. When the centre oil film thickness (hc) exceeds the De of all powders added, the wear reduction rates of powders with different De are concentrated in the range of 55%–61%. However, when the hc decreased, the different powders show a great difference in anti‐wear performance, which is due to the relatively larger De that would affect the action of nanoparticles entering into the friction contact area, thereby week its anti‐wear performance. It is assumed the nanoparticles will undergo the rolling–deformation–destroy–decomposition four stages after they enter the friction contact area to play a role in reducing friction and anti‐wear.
Effects of carbon nano onions on the tribological performance of food‐grade calcium sulfonate complex grease
Authors: Wang Wei , Qian Shanhua , Gong Longfei , Ni Zifeng , Ren Haidong
Published: September 2021

To improve the lubricity of the as‐prepared food‐grade calcium‐based grease, the effects of nano‐additive carbon nano onions (CNOs) on the tribological properties are systematically investigated using a ball‐disc wear tester. The properties of CNOs‐containing food‐grade calcium sulfonate complex greases (CSCG‐FG) were characterised by thermogravimetric analyser, rheometer and electrochemical workstation, Listeria monocytogenes, X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer and Raman spectrometer. The results revealed that pure and CNOs‐containing CSCG‐FG were proved to be safe. The average coefficient of friction (aCoF) and wear volume of the disc at CSCG‐FG of 0.10 wt% CNOs were the minimal values, which were 31.4 and 70.0% less than that of pure CSCG‐FG at 25°C and greatly lower than that of similar commercial food‐grade grease. At high temperature, CNOs‐containing CSCG‐FG had lower aCoFs and torques. CSCG‐FG of 0.10 wt% CNOs would be most possibly used in engineering applications and the results will provide valuable insight into developing food‐grade lubricants.
Morphological Studies of Solution‐Crystallized Thermoplastic Elastomers with Polyethylene Endblocks and a Random‐Copolymer Midblock
Authors: Yan Jiaqi , Lee Byeongdu , Smith Steven D. , Spontak Richard J.
Published: September 2021

Styrenic thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) in the form of triblock copolymers possessing glassy endblocks and a rubbery midblock account for the largest global market of TPEs worldwide, and typically rely on microphase separation of the endblocks and the subsequent formation of rigid microdomains to ensure satisfactory network stabilization. In this study, the morphological characteristics of a relatively new family of crystallizable TPEs that instead consist of polyethylene endblocks and a random‐copolymer midblock composed of styrene and (ethylene‐co‐butylene) moieties are investigated. Copolymer solutions prepared at logarithmic concentrations in a slightly endblock‐selective solvent are subjected to crystallization under different time and temperature conditions to ascertain if copolymer self‐assembly is directed by endblock crystallization or vice versa. According to transmission electron microscopy, semicrystalline aggregates develop at the lowest solution concentration examined (0.01 wt%), and the size and population of crystals, which dominate the copolymer morphologies, are observed to increase with increasing aging time. Real‐space results are correlated with small‐ and wide‐angle X‐ray scattering to elucidate the concurrent roles of endblock crystallization and self‐assembly of these unique TPEs in solution.
A joint weighting and modified weighted aggregated sum product assessment‐based methodology for the measurement of patient satisfaction: Evidence from Indian healthcare
Authors: Singh Satender Pal , Kundu Tithishri , Adhikari Arnab , Basu Sumanta
Published: September 2021

In recent times, the increasing healthcare spending due to the rising health awareness signifies the importance of identifying the appropriate factors that influence patient satisfaction, weight assignment to these factors, and measurement of patient satisfaction becomes important. However, devising a robust objective weighting method for weight assignment of the factors and an analytical method for determining patient satisfaction scores has not been paid enough attention. Motivated by these issues, this work focuses on devising a robust objective weighting method for weight assignment of the factors that influence patient satisfaction, an analytical method for determining patient satisfaction, and real‐life implementation. We first propose a joint weighting methodology to allocate the weights to the factors by integrating the weights determined by different objective weighting methods, namely, mean weight, SD, entropy, criteria importance through intercriteria correlation, and preference selection index‐based approaches. Next, using the weights of these factors, we design a modified weighted aggregated sum product assessment method to determine a single patient satisfaction score by integrating the scores obtained from the weighted sum model and the weighted product model. The proposed methodology is applied to a real‐world dataset provided by a large healthcare provider and diagnostic clinic in Kolkata, India, to exhibit the real‐life implementation. The theoretical insights obtained through non‐parametric tests highlight the significant difference between joint weighting‐based and single weighting‐based methods. The context‐specific insights signify that the patients suffering from arthritis and hyperlipidaemia exhibit lower satisfaction. Also, the patients suffering from dengue express lower satisfaction than the patients suffering from malaria. Additionally, the healthcare provider should focus on improving the service quality of the departments such as ophthalmology, ENT, and dietician.
The role of integrity and ability in leadership
Authors: Zhou Andrew
Published: September 2021

This paper explores the leadership qualities of integrity and ability, and the impact of such qualities on team production, with a formal model. Integrity is captured by the degree to which the leader internalizes follower welfare. Ability describes the competence of the leader in productive and rent‐seeking activities. The leader and followers of a team each choose to spend time between production and rent‐seeking. While an increase in leader rent‐seeking ability may not induce the team to spend more time on productive activities, an increase in the integrity of the leader will.
Dose calculation accuracy in particle therapy: Comparing carbon ions with protons
Authors: Ruangchan Sirinya , Palmans Hugo , Knäusl Barbara , Georg Dietmar , Clausen Monika
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This work presents the validation of an analytical pencil beam dose calculation algorithm in a commercial treatment planning system (TPS) for carbon ions by measurements of dose distributions in heterogeneous phantom geometries. Additionally, a comparison study of carbon ions versus protons is performed considering current best solutions in commercial TPS.

Methods

All treatment plans were optimized and calculated using the RayStation TPS (RaySearch, Sweden). The dose distributions calculated with the TPS were compared with measurements using a 24‐pinpoint ionization chamber array (T31015, PTW, Germany). Tissue‐like inhomogeneities (bone, lung, and soft tissue) were embedded in water, while a target volume of 4 x 4 x 4 cm3 was defined at two different depths behind the heterogeneities. In total, 10 different test cases, with and without range shifter as well as different air gaps, were investigated. Dose distributions inside as well as behind the target volume were evaluated.

Results

Inside the target volume, the mean dose difference between calculations and measurements, averaged over all test cases, was 1.6% for carbon ions. This compares well to the final agreement of 1.5% obtained in water at the commissioning stage of the TPS for carbon ions and is also within the clinically acceptable interval of 3%. The mean dose difference and maximal dose difference obtained outside the target area were 1.8% and 13.4%, respectively. The agreement of dose distributions for carbon ions in the target volumes was comparable or better to that between Monte Carlo (MC) dose calculations and measurements for protons. Percentage dose differences of more than 10% were present outside the target area behind bone–lung structures, where the carbon ion calculations systematically over predicted the dose. MC dose calculations for protons were superior to carbon ion beams outside the target volumes.

Conclusion

The pencil beam dose calculations for carbon ions in RayStation were found to be in good agreement with dosimetric measurements in heterogeneous geometries for points of interest located within the target. Large local discrepancies behind the target may contribute to incorrect dose predictions for organs at risk.
Effect of LSVT® BIG on standing balance in a Parkinson's patient: A case report
Authors: Iwai Masanobu , Koyama Soichiro , Takeda Kazuya , Hirakawa Yuichi , Motoya Ikuo , Kumazawa Nobuhiro , Sakurai Hiroaki , Kanada Yoshikiyo , Kawamura Nobutoshi , Kawamura Mami , Tanabe Shigeo
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose

There are no reports regarding the effect of Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® BIG (LSVT® BIG) on standing balance ability evaluated using quantitative assessment. This case report aimed to describe and evaluate the influence of LSVT® BIG on the center of pressure (COP) trajectory in a patient with Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

Although this paper focused on one case, quantitative assessment on the effect of LSVT® BIG on standing balance ability was performed. A 67‐year‐old woman patient diagnosed with PD at age 59, with a Hoehn and Yahr stage 3 disability severity, underwent a 4‐weeks supervised LSVT® BIG program. The total distances of the COP trajectory (two‐dimensional [2D] horizontal plane, anterior‐posterior [AP] direction, and medial‐lateral [ML] direction), and the mean COP velocity for each direction, postural stability, and posture subsections of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Part 3 were assessed at pre‐ and post‐intervention.

Results

The total distances of the COP trajectory, mean COP velocities, and scores of postural stability and posture subsections of the UPDRS Part 3 improved after intervention (from 124.6 to 76.6 cm [2D], 89.4 to 57.7 cm [AP], 77.4 to 38.5 cm [ML]; 4.0 to 2.6 cm/s [2D], 3.0 to 1.9 cm/s [AP], 2.6 to 1.3 cm/s [ML]; and 3 to 0, and 3 to 2, respectively).

Discussion

LSVT® BIG may be effective in improving the total distance of the COP trajectory, mean COP velocity, and both postural stability and posture subsections of the UPDRS Part 3 in the presented PD case.
SLX4IP N‐terminus dictates telomeric localization in ALT‐like castration‐resistant prostate cancer cell lines
Authors: Mangosh Tawna L. , Grabowska Magdalena M. , Taylor Derek J.
Published: September 2021

Background

To ensure replicative immortality in cancer, telomeres must be maintained through activation of telomere maintenance mechanisms (TMMs) that are dependent on telomerase or the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) pathway. Although TMM pathways have traditionally been considered to be mutually exclusive, ALT hallmarks have been identified in cancers defined as being telomerase‐positive, supporting TMM coexistence. In castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), in vitro models were thought to be universally dependent on telomerase as the primary TMM; however, CRPC models with androgen receptor (AR) loss demonstrate ALT hallmarks with limited telomerase activity and require ALT‐associated PML bodies (APBs) for sustained telomere maintenance. The TMM coexistence in AR‐negative CRPC is reliant on the ALT regulator protein, SLX4IP.

Methods

To identify the regions of SLX4IP responsible for the induction of APBs and telomere preservation in CRPC models, five 3xFLAG‐tagged SLX4IP constructs were designed and stably introduced into parental C4‐2B, DU145, and PC‐3 cells. Once generated, these cell lines were interrogated for APB abundance and SLX4IP construct localization via immunofluorescence‐fluorescence in situ hybridization (IF‐FISH) and coimmunoprecipitation experiments for telomeric localization. Similarly, PC‐3 cells with endogenous SLX4IP knockdown and SLX4IP construct introduction were interrogated for APB abundance, telomere length preservation, and senescent rescue.

Results

Here, we define the N‐terminus of SLX4IP as being responsible for the promotion of the ALT‐like phenotype of AR‐negative CRPC models. Specifically, the N‐terminus of SLX4IP was sufficient for promoting APB formation to a similar degree as full‐length SLX4IP across CRPC cell lines. Additionally, APB promotion by the N‐terminus of SLX4IP rescued telomere shortening and senescent induction triggered by SLX4IP knockdown in AR‐negative CRPC cells. Moreover, APB formation and telomere maintenance were dependent on the ability of the N‐terminus to direct SLX4IP localization at telomeres and APBs.

Conclusions

These findings identify the role of the uncharacterized ALT regulator SLX4IP in the promotion of TMM coexistence to perpetuate replicative immortality in CRPC in vitro.
Pathological significance and prognostic role of LATS2 in prostate cancer
Authors: Matsuda Tsuyoshi , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Nakamura Yuichiro , Otsubo Asato , Mukae Yuta , Harada Junki , Mitsunari Kensuke , Matsuo Tomohiro , Ohba Kojiro , Furusato Bungo , Sakai Hideki
Published: September 2021

Background

Large tumor suppressor 2 (LATS2) is an important regulator of the Hippo pathway and it plays crucial roles in cell survival and behaviors. Herein, we evaluated the pathological roles of LATS2 in prostate cancer (PC), for which very little information is available.

Methods

Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in response to the siRNA‐mediated knockdown (KD) LATS2 expression were evaluated in two PC cell lines (LNCaP and PC3). The expression of LATS2 in specimens from 204 PC patients was investigated immunohistochemically, and the relationships between its expression and clinicopathological features, proliferation index (PI; measured using an anti‐KI‐67 antibody), and biochemical recurrence (BCR) were investigated.

Results

KD of LATS2 increased the growth, migration, and invasion in LNCaP cells and only increased migration in PC3 cells. The expression of LATS2 was negatively associated with the grade group, T, N, M stage, and PI. In addition, the expression of LATS2 was a useful predictor of the histological effects of neoadjuvant hormonal therapy and BCR‐free survival periods. A multivariate analysis model including clinicopathological features showed that negative expression of LATS2 had a significantly higher risk of BCR (odds ratio = 2.95, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

LATS2 acts as a tumor suppressor in PC. LATS2 expression is a useful predictor for BCR. LATS2‐related activities are possibly dependent on the androgen‐dependency of PC cells. Therefore, we suggest that LATS2 could be a potential therapeutic target and a useful predictor for outcome in patients with PC.
An automated streamlined method for the therapeutic drug monitoring of digoxin based on the online‐solid‐phase extraction liquid chromatography tandem high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Liu Congmin , Wang Li , Pan Lixuan , Hou Wenqing , Hao Zhihui , Qu Lihua
Published: September 2021

Rationale

Digoxin is widely used in the clinical treatment of cardiovascular diseases. However, due to its extremely narrow therapeutic window, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is vitally important. In consideration of the time‐consuming and labor‐intensive nature of the traditional techniques, an automated and efficient method was required for the clinical individualized TDM of digoxin.

Methods

An online solid‐phase extraction liquid chromatography tandem high‐resolution mass spectrometry (online‐SPE‐LC‐HRMS) method was developed and applied for the determination of digoxin in plasma. The online SPE‐LC steps included pretreatment and separation of plasma samples that were carried out using a Waters Oasis HLB cartridge and XBridge Shield RP18 column, respectively. A high‐resolution Q Orbitrap mass spectrometer with targeted‐selected ion monitoring in negative scan mode was applied to monitor formate‐adduct ions [M + HCOO]− m/z 825.42781 for digoxin.

Results

Linearity was shown over the range 0.1–10 ng mL−1 for digoxin with correlation coefficients of R2 > 0.999. The lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) for digoxin was 0.1 ng mL−1. Extraction recoveries ranged from 82.61% to 94.28% for digoxin. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision values were < 5.53% with accuracy ranging from 84.97% to 96.75%. The total running time was 10 min for each sample.

Conclusion

The established method displayed satisfactory recoveries, accuracy, precision, and stability, and successfully applied on the TDM of digoxin. This automated streamlined method provides a powerful tool to guide the individualized administration of digoxin, which is significant for the practice of precision medicine.
Can school psychologists be inclusive when delivering evidence‐based behavioural interventions in special schools, behaviour units or clinics? A systematic mapping literature review
Authors: Armstrong David
Published: September 2021

School psychologists (SPs) have emerged as a key agent in delivering or orchestrating evidence‐based, behavioural interventions in specialist settings with students who have a disability and challenging behaviour. These trends in practice create complex tensions and ethical dilemmas for SPs. UNICEF (2017) argue that all children with disabilities should be educated in mainstream settings and recommend that specialist education provision ends. Indeed, challenging behaviour is often the primary reason given to justify why children with disabilities are placed at a special school rather than their local mainstream school. A mapping literature review of research literature published 2009–2019 was undertaken to investigate this issue—namely, the type of specialist behavioural interventions delivered in specialist settings by SPs—and illuminate any tensions or ethical dilemmas arising. Contrary to expectations, literature reviewed was unclear whether SPs are increasingly involved in specialist settings delivering evidence‐based behavioural interventions. Articles surveyed tended to explore the use of evidence‐based behavioural interventions in mainstream settings to de‐escalating challenging behaviours, reducing the risk that students with disabilities are referred out of mainstream into specialist provision. Several studies captured by this review critically questioned whether evidence‐based behavioural interventions were suitable for use in educational settings of any type with students with a disability. Directions for future research are given, specifically: research should illuminate precisely what, if any, involvement SPs have in delivering behavioural interventions to students with disabilities in special schools, behaviour units and clinics, including greater discussion about any associated benefits or ethical risks.
Developing a taxa‐related physical habitat score based on the response of macroinvertebrate community structure to fine bed sediment composition in the Tsitsa River, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: Huchzermeyer Nicholaus H. , Rowntree Kate
Published: September 2021

Biomonitoring techniques such as the South African Scoring System version 5 (SASSv5) is widely used in South Africa to rapidly assess river water quality, but there are currently no equivalent rapid monitoring tools for fine sediment assessments. This article presents a tool that monitors the effects of fine sediment on macroinvertebrates that can be used alongside the SASSv5 assessment. Sampling was carried out in the Tsitsa River in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. Five sampling surveys were conducted over one hydrological year to capture a range of flow conditions resulting in a total of 90 sampling points across five sampling sites. Using an adaption of the SASSv5 methods, sampling was undertaken at a quadrat scale, rather than at a site scale, to identify macroinvertebrate families in different habitat types and degrees of sediment deposition. Fine sediment sampling using a disturbance technique was undertaken immediately upstream of 78 of the biological sampling points. A taxa‐related sediment deposition score was created in which taxa were scored in terms of their sensitivity to fine sediment accumulation. The index was tested as a monitoring tool at 11 monitoring sites along the Tsitsa River in different seasons and flow conditions in 2019 and 2020.
Step‐adjusted tree‐based reinforcement learning for evaluating nested dynamic treatment regimes using test‐and‐treat observational data
Authors: Tang Ming , Wang Lu , Gorin Michael A. , Taylor Jeremy M. G.
Published: September 2021

Dynamic treatment regimes (DTRs) include a sequence of treatment decision rules, in which treatment is adapted over time in response to the changes in an individual's disease progression and health care history. In medical practice, nested test‐and‐treat strategies are common to improve cost‐effectiveness. For example, for patients at risk of prostate cancer, only patients who have high prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) need a biopsy, which is costly and invasive, to confirm the diagnosis and help determine the treatment if needed. A decision about treatment happens after the biopsy, and is thus nested within the decision of whether to do the test. However, current existing statistical methods are not able to accommodate such a naturally embedded property of the treatment decision within the test decision. Therefore, we developed a new statistical learning method, step‐adjusted tree‐based reinforcement learning, to evaluate DTRs within such a nested multistage dynamic decision framework using observational data. At each step within each stage, we combined the robust semiparametric estimation via augmented inverse probability weighting with a tree‐based reinforcement learning method to deal with the counterfactual optimization. The simulation studies demonstrated robust performance of the proposed methods under different scenarios. We further applied our method to evaluate the necessity of prostate biopsy and identify the optimal test‐and‐treat regimes for prostate cancer patients using data from the Johns Hopkins University prostate cancer active surveillance dataset.
Polymer‐Based Therapeutic Nanoagents for Photothermal‐Enhanced Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yang Nan , Cao Changyu , Li Hui , Hong Ying , Cai Yu , Song Xuejiao , Wang Wenjun , Mou Xiaozhou , Dong Xiaochen
Published: September 2021

Significant efforts have been made on cancer control by scientists. And various methods for cancer treatment are constantly emerging. Among them, photothermal therapy (PTT) has received a wide range of attention due to its special features, including noninvasiveness, remote control, high selectivity, negligible drug resistance, insignificant side effects, and desired therapeutic effects. Photothermal agents (PTAs), which can convert light into heat under laser irradiation, serve as a crucial role during PTT for killing cancer cells. In the past decades, different kinds of PTAs have been successfully developed. Among these, polymer‐based PTAs are widely used in cancer diagnosis and PTT owing to their competitive features, including customizable designs, controllable synthesis, excellent biocompatibility, negligible cytotoxicity, satisfactory photostability, and desirable photothermal effects. In addition, along with PTT, they also play a crucial role in tumor targeting, cancer imaging, drug delivery, and combination therapies. Herein, the recent advances in cancer therapeutic nanoplatforms built on polymers are reviewed in detail. Meanwhile, future opportunities and challenges for polymer‐based PTAs in cancer therapy are also exemplified.
Genetic diversity assessment of Georgia peanut cultivars developed during ninety years of breeding
Authors: Brown Nino , Branch William D. , Johnson Matthew , Wallace Jason
Published: September 2021

The cultivated peanut(Arachis hypogaea L.) has experienced severe genetic bottlenecks over the course of its evolution and domestication. Most genetic diversity studies in peanut have focused on global genetic stocks, wild accessions, and related species, but few have focused on elite cultivars. The objective of this project was to assess the genetic diversity of 32 peanut cultivars developed by the University of Georgia breeding program since its inception in 1931. Quantifying genetic similarity (GSIM) among these cultivars will provide a better understanding of their relationships and aid in breeding for cultivar development. Genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS), in concert with the recently published A. hypogaea genome sequence, was used to identify a total of 27,142 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among these cultivars. Coefficients of parentage (CoP) were calculated based on publicly available pedigree information and compared with SNP‐based GSIM estimates; the resulting correlations were low, ranging from R2 = 0.212–0.279. Although genetic diversity is generally low in cultivated peanut, our data indicate that the genetic diversity of Georgia cultivars has actually increased since the early days of the breeding program, likely a result of the incorporation of diverse germplasm and breeding lines into the program. The results reported here provide a valuable understanding of genetic variation among elite Georgia peanut cultivars that have had a significant impact on the peanut industry within the United States.
Small Changes that Make a Great Difference: Reading, Playing and Eating with your Children and the Facilitating Role of Managers in Latin America
Authors: Bosch María José , Las Heras Mireia
Published: September 2021

Parenting is challenging in today’s world. Dual careers, hyper-connectivity, and long distances take almost all our time, and parents must integrate their different roles. A direct impact of this hectic life is on the time parents spend with their children. Additionally, the role of fathers has gained importance, and it is important to understand his influence. In this chapter we will analyze the importance of the time fathers spend in positive engagement activities with their children, such as eating and reading with their children, and also how organizations, through their managers, can promote these positive engagement activities. Also, to show how context influences this relationship, we compare different countries in Latin America: Argentina, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.