bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Attrition during neoadjuvant chemotherapy for gastric adenocarcinoma is associated with decreased survival: A United States Safety‐Net Collaborative analysis
Authors: Kronenfeld Joshua P. , Collier Amber L. , Turgeon Michael K. , Ju Michelle , Alterio Rodrigo , Wang Annie , Fernandez Manuel , Porembka Matthew R. , Richter Harry , Lee Ann Y. , Russell Maria C. , Merchant Nipun B. , Maker Ajay V. , Datta Jashodeep 
Published: August 2021

AbstractBackgroundNeoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is standard management for localized gastric cancer (GC). Attrition during NAC due to treatment‐related toxicity or functional decline is considered a surrogate for worse biologic outcomes; however, data supporting this paradigm are lacking. We investigated factors predicting attrition and its association with overall survival (OS) in GC.MethodsPatients with nonmetastatic GC initiating NAC were identified from the US Safety‐Net Collaborative (2012–2014). Patient/treatment‐related characteristics were compared between attrition/nonattrition cohorts. Cox models determined factors associated with OS.ResultsOf 116 patients initiating NAC, attrition during prescribed NAC occurred in 24%. No differences were observed in performance status, comorbidities, treatment at safety‐net hospital, or clinicopathologic factors between cohorts. Despite absence of distinguishing factors, attrition was associated with worse OS (median: 11 vs. 37 months; p = 0.01) and was an independent predictor of mortality (hazard ratio [HR]: 4.7, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.5–15.2; p = 0.02). Fewer patients with attrition underwent curative‐intent surgery (39% vs. 89%; p < 0.001). Even in patients undergoing surgical exploration (n = 89), NAC attrition remained an independent predictor of worse OS (HR: 50.8, 95% CI: 3.6–717.8; p = 0.004) despite similar receipt of adjuvant chemotherapy.ConclusionAttrition during NAC for nonmetastatic GC is independently associated with worse OS, even in patients undergoing surgery. Attrition during NAC may reflect unfavorable tumor biology not captured by conventional staging metrics.
Variability in electrodiagnostic findings associated with neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome
Authors: Mul Karlien , Pesser Niels , Vervaart Kimberly , Teijink Joep , van Nuenen Bart , van Alfen Nens 
Published: August 2021

AbstractIntroduction/AimsNeurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) is a heterogeneous and often disputed entity. An electrodiagnostic pattern of T1 > C8 axon involvement is considered characteristic for the diagnosis of NTOS. However, since the advent of high‐resolution nerve ultrasound (US) imaging, we have encountered several patients with a proven entrapment of the lower brachial plexus who showed a different, variable electrodiagnostic pattern.MethodsIn this retrospective case series, 14 patients with an NTOS diagnosis with a verified source of compression of the lower brachial plexus and abnormal findings on their electrodiagnostic testing were included. Their medical records were reviewed to obtain clinical, imaging, and electrodiagnostic data.ResultsSeven patients showed results consistent with the “classic” T1 axon  > C8 pattern of involvement. Less typical findings included equally severe involvement of T1 and C8 axons, more severe C8 involvement, pure motor abnormalities, neurogenic changes on needle electromyography in the flexor carpi radialis and biceps brachii muscles, and one patient with an abnormal sensory nerve action potential (SNAP) amplitude for the median sensory response recorded from the third digit. Patients with atypical findings on electrodiagnostic testing underwent nerve imaging more often compared to patients with classic findings (seven of seven patients vs. five of seven respectively), especially nerve ultrasound.DiscussionWhen there is a clinical suspicion of NTOS, an electrodiagnostic finding other than the classic T1 > C8 pattern of involvement does not rule out the diagnosis. High resolution nerve imaging is valuable to diagnose additional patients with this treatable condition.
Work‐life balance of expatriate nurses working in acute care settings
Authors: Alreshidi Nashi M. , Alsharari Abdalkarem F. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractAimTo examine the quality of work life of acute care expatriate nurses in multiple regions of Saudi Arabia.MethodsA country‐wide cross‐sectional survey was carried out between June–August 2020 using the Brooks' quality of nursing work‐life questionnaire.ResultsThe range of quality of nursing work‐life scores (80 to 245) was moderate, with an overall mean score of 175.3 (± 23.1). Only 723 (42.4%) of the nurses experienced a high quality of nursing work life. Multivariable regression analysis showed that 21 to 40 years' age group, being a Filipino or Indian nurse and working in the northern region were the independent predictors of low quality work life.ConclusionMost expatriate nurses were not satisfied with their quality of work life. Hospital administrators should take initiatives to enhance the quality of expatriate nurses' work life towards improving their productivity and quality of patient care.
pH‐receptive chlorhexidine‐loaded poly‐L‐glycolic acid platform delivery approach to stabilize adhesive‐orthodontic interface
Authors: Kamran Muhammad Abdullah , A Alnazeh Abdullah , Hameed Mohammad Shahul , Yassin Syed M. , Mannakandath Master Luqman , Alshahrani Ibrahim 
Published: August 2021

AbstractThis study aimed to synthesize and characterize chlorhexidine (CHX)‐loaded poly‐L‐glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles and to investigate the in vitro drug release in different pH conditions, antibacterial, cytotoxicity activity, and mechanical properties of CHX‐loaded PLGA‐modified Transbond XT adhesive at tooth‐bracket interface. PLGA nanoparticles with and without CHX were synthesized using emulsion diffusion method and characterized for morphology and chemical structure using transmission electron microscopy and Raman analysis. CHX‐loaded PLGA nanoparticles in Transbond XT orthodontic adhesive were prepared using two different concentrations of the nanoparticles (2.5 and 5 wt%) and characterized for degree of conversion (DC) using DC, antimicrobial MTT assay, and cytotoxicity testing. Bonded specimens were tested for shear bond strength (SBS) and adhesive remnant index (ARI) at the tooth‐bracket interface. The synthesized PLGA nanoparticles averaged between 60 and 80 nm in size. After loading CHX inside PLGA nanoparticles, the morphology of the PLGA nanoparticles was changed considerably into irregular shaped structures. Bracket samples treated with 5 wt% CHX‐loaded PLGA‐modified adhesive demonstrated the least mean DC scores. A 5 wt% CHX‐loaded PLGA‐modified adhesive specimens showed more profound antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans. The least mean SBS values were exhibited by 5 wt% CHX‐loaded PLGA‐modified adhesive samples, while a statistically significant difference was observed in the mean ARI values among all study groups at all‐time points (p = 0.018). A pH‐sensitive CHX release response was observed when loaded in PLGA nanoparticles. The formulated drug‐loaded nanocarrier exhibited remarkable physicochemical, spectral, and biological features.
Barrier, rheological, and antimicrobial properties of sustainable nanocomposites based on gellan gum/polyacrylamide/zinc oxide
Authors: Balasubramanian Rukmanikrishnan , Srinivasan Ramalingam , Lee Jaewoong 
Published: August 2021

AbstractIn this study, we used a solution casting method to prepare gellan gum (G)‐based ternary nanocomposite films containing polyacrylamide (P) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles. All composites were prepared using the chemical cross‐linker N,N‐methylenebisacrylamide. The nanocomposites were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Attenuated total reflectance FTIR revealed strong hydrogen bonding interactions among gellan gum, polyacrylamide, and ZnO, which enhanced the physiochemical, thermal, and mechanical properties of the GPZnO nanocomposites. The addition of ZnO nanoparticles increased the glass transition temperature (Tg: 181.8–196.3°C), thermal stability (T5%: 87.8–96.5°C), and char yield (23.9–29.1%) of the GP composite films, as well as their the tensile strength (from 33.5 to 43.8 MPa) and ultraviolet (UV) blocking properties (~99.2% protection against UVB [280–320 nm]). ZnO significantly influenced the rheological properties of the GP composite. The prepared GP and GPZnO nanocomposites exhibited shear thinning behavior and their viscosities decreased when there is an increase in shear rate. Storage and loss modulus increased with frequency with the addition of ZnO nanoparticles. The GPZnO films exhibited reduced hydrophilicity, moisture content, and water barrier properties compared with the GP film. The GPZnO nanocomposites exhibited effective antimicrobial activity against six different pathogens. The prepared GPZnO films could be useful in biodegradable packaging applications.
Localized tracheobronchial amyloidosis: A rare case presentation and tailored management approaches
Authors: Arulanantham Jonathan , Officer Charlotte , O'Connor Chelsie , Baillie Tina , Bass Simon , Williamson Jonathan P. , Carew Alan 
Published: August 2021

AbstractLocalized tracheobronchial amyloidosis (TBA) is a rare manifestation of pulmonary amyloid disease, and can result in central airway obstruction. The nature of presentation is variable and there may be a delayed diagnosis. TBA has a variable prognosis and the most commonly used strategy for management is airway recanalization. Here, we describe the tailored management approach for a 64‐year‐old Caucasian female presenting with localized TBA of the left main bronchus. Pulmonary function testing, computed tomography and positron emission tomography results are detailed. Rigid bronchoscopy was utilized for diagnostic and therapeutic intervention, which involved debulking and stent insertion. Amyloid deposition and localized inflammation were identified through histopathology. Focal external beam radiation therapy was administered following multidisciplinary discussion and review of the literature, with no evidence of active disease at 6 months follow‐up.
Systemic sclerosis‐associated interstitial lung disease in a Vietnamese adult female: Case report and literature review
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh , Nguyen Thi Y Nhi , Le Trong Khoan , Nguyen Thanh Thao , Le Trong Binh 
Published: August 2021

AbstractSystemic sclerosis‐associated interstitial lung disease (SSc‐ILD) is a rare disease in the Asian population and might be overlooked in clinical practice. Early diagnosis is crucial to initiate treatment and to prevent disease progression. Chest high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) is the modality of choice for diagnosing and assessing this disorder. SSc‐ILD should be included in the list of differential diagnoses of ILD. Familiarity with HRCT findings and thorough clinical examination are crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
The Effects of P‐glycoprotein Modulators on the Transition of Levofloxacin to Rat Brain, Testicle, and Plasma: In Vivo and In Silico Studies
Authors: Cetin Gul , Tras Bunyamin , Uney Kamil 
Published: August 2021

AbstractP‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), a transporter membrane protein, plays an important role in various physiological and physiopathological conditions, drug‐drug and drug‐food interactions, and multi‐drug resistance. Nowadays, P‐gp modulators are used consciously to treat some specific diseases, such as cancer and poisoning. Levofloxacin (LVX), a P‐gp substrate, may cause the stimulation of the central nervous system. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of fexofenadine (FEX) and dexamethasone (DEX) with P‐gp modulators on the distribution of LVX in rat brain, testicle, and plasma. In the in vivo section of the study, LVX concentrations in tissue and plasma samples were detected by high‐performance liquid chromatography. In addition, in silico molecular docking studies were conducted to elucidate interactions between P‐gp and drugs. The administration of DEX at a low dose and minute 30 reduced the LVX passage to the brain, while the administration of DEX at a high dose and hour 2 increased the LVX passage to the brain, testicle tissue, and plasma. MM‐GBSA ΔG values of FEX, DEX, and LVX were calculated to be−80.95,−57.74, and−52.12 kcal/mol, respectively. The results of this study reported that DEX, known as a P‐gp inductor, may show inhibitory activity based on dose, tissue, and time of application.
A Dual Spectroscopic Probe Based on Benzothiazole for Detection of Hydrazine
Authors: Zhang Shiqing , Li Lingling , Zhu Jinbiao , Mu Xinyue , Yan Liqiang , Wu Xiongzhi 
Published: August 2021

AbstractHydrazine is widely used in fuels, fuel cell reactors and the synthesis of polymer, drug and pesticide intermediates. However, it can be contained in food and drinking water and enter organisms through the food chains because of its good water solubility, causing serious health problems. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new analytical reagents to detect hydrazine with high selectivity and sensitivity. In this paper, a spectroscopic probe (probe 1) for hydrazine hydrate based on the addition‐cyclization mechanism with high selectivity and sensitivity was developed. This probe can simultaneously detect hydrazine by UV‐visible and fluorescence spectra, and the corresponding detection limits are 51.7 μM and 6.7 nM, respectively. Importantly, the spectroscopic probe was successfully applied to hydrazine detection in water samples and living cells. The test strips based on the probe was also prepared for the point‐of‐care testing of hydrazine in the actual water samples.
Synergistic Catalysis by Single‐Atom Catalysts and Redox Mediator to Improve Lithium–Oxygen Batteries Performance
Authors: Li Danying , Xu Kangli , Zhu Maogen , Xu Tao , Fan Zhechen , Zhu Linqin , Zhu Yongchun 
Published: August 2021

AbstractLithium–oxygen (Li–O2) batteries with ultrahigh theoretical energy density have attracted widespread attention while there are still problems with high overpotential and poor cycle stability. Rational design and application of efficient catalysts to improve the performance of Li–O2 batteries is of significant importance. In this work, Co single atoms catalysts are successfully combined with redox mediator (lithium bromide [LiBr]) to synergistically catalyze electrochemical reactions in Li–O2 batteries. Single‐atom cobalt anchored in porous N‐doped hollow carbon spheres (CoSAs‐NHCS) with high specific surface area and high catalytic activity are utilized as cathode material. However, the potential performances of batteries are difficult to adequately achieve with only CoSAs‐NHCS, owing to the blocked electrochemical active sites covered by insulating solid‐state discharge product Li2O2. Combined with LiBr as redox mediator, the enhanced OER catalytic effect extends throughout all formed Li2O2 during discharge. Meantime, the certain adsorption effect of CoSAs‐NHCS on Br2 and Br3− can reduce the shuttle of RMox. The synergistic effect of Co single atoms and LiBr can not only promote more Li2O2 decomposition but also reduce the shuttle effect by absorbing the oxidized redox mediator. Li–O2 batteries with Co single atoms and LiBr achieve ultralow overpotential of 0.69 V and longtime stable cyclability.
Science education for and as resiliency through indoor agriculture
Authors: Stapleton Sarah Riggs , Meier Briana K. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractThe COVID‐19 pandemic has highlighted the need to adapt to and rebound from unexpected change and uncertainty. The increasing climate chaos of the Anthropocene additionally underscores the necessity of resilient societies and individuals. Individuals able to problem‐solve in emergent situations are integral to a resilient society, and science education can develop these competencies both individually and collectively. We use the concept of resiliency to argue for science education that enables learners to adapt and respond in the face of disruption, unrest, and disaster. We focus specifically on the ways in which learning how to grow plants indoors can develop resilience on multiple levels while authentically facilitating science and engineering principles. This study seeks to explore how indoor agriculture might support science education for resiliency. We examine a higher‐education project, the “Grow Pod,” involving shipping container agriculture with first‐year undergraduates. We argue that inclusion of indoor agriculture within science education has the potential to support both learning for and as resiliency. In our analysis, we note how the Grow Pod project supports a science education for resiliency through collective learning that helps learners understand plant basics and how to grow food, and a science education as resiliency which includes learning through and rebounding from challenges/mistakes, learning resourcefulness, and experiencing restorative benefits of working with plants.
Reservoir Computing for Scalable Hardware with Block‐Based Neural Network
Authors: Lee Kundo , Hamagami Tomoki 
Published: August 2021

AbstractThis paper presents a reservoir computing technique using Asynchronous Block‐Based Neural Networks (ABBNN). Echo State Networks and Liquid State Machines introduced a new paradigm in artificial neural networks (ANN), known as Reservoir Computing (RC). A recurrent neural network (RNN) in Reservoir Computing is generated randomly, and only a readout is trained. The reservoir computing greatly facilitated the practical RNN application and outperformed classical RNN in many tasks. ABBNN is an extended version of the classical block‐based neural network model. ABBNN, an evolvable neural network model, provides a model‐free estimation of nonlinear dynamical systems. To propose a hardware‐aware model of reservoir computing and high‐speed training, we introduce Block‐Based Reservoir Computing (BBRC). BBRC provides a flexible architecture. The architecture based on the basic blocks provides a regularity that supports scalable hardware. In contrast, BBRC also supports randomness based on the internal configuration. Both are significant features in achieving an optimal hardware reservoir computer. © 2021 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Motivation‐based segmentation of game meat consumers: A look at the beliefs of food consumers during the COVID‐19 crisis in China
Authors: Xie Xiaoru , Cai Xiaomei , Zhu Hong , Li Jun (Justin) 
Published: August 2021

AbstractObjectivesThis research aims to explore the factors motivate consumers to eat game meat during a multi‐state disease outbreak.MethodsIt proposes a segmentation of consumers based on their attitudes toward and reveals the consumers' food beliefs that motivate their actions. Three segments of game meat consumers were identified: identity seekers, health seekers, and taste seekers.ResultsA survey of the potential impact that the COVID‐19 crisis has on these three clusters' future food choices showed that the identity and health seekers are more open to a change in food choices. However, the taste seekers are less likely to be influenced by external factors.ConclusionsThis research indicates that for the policymakers, the key is to take game meat consumers as an effective intervention entry point. It is crucial to facilitate healthy food choices and to promote socially‐ and culturally‐appropriate food beliefs by improving public awareness of the risks of game meat, and invest in organic food.Research ImplicationsThis research provides new insights into the food beliefs of game meat consumers via motivation‐based segmentation.
Review on model predictive control: an engineering perspective
Authors: Schwenzer Max , Ay Muzaffer , Bergs Thomas , Abel Dirk 
Published: August 2021

AbstractModel-based predictive control (MPC) describes a set of advanced control methods, which make use of a process model to predict the future behavior of the controlled system. By solving a—potentially constrained—optimization problem, MPC determines the control law implicitly. This shifts the effort for the design of a controller towards modeling of the to-be-controlled process. Since such models are available in many fields of engineering, the initial hurdle for applying control is deceased with MPC. Its implicit formulation maintains the physical understanding of the system parameters facilitating the tuning of the controller. Model-based predictive control (MPC) can even control systems, which cannot be controlled by conventional feedback controllers. With most of the theory laid out, it is time for a concise summary of it and an application-driven survey. This review article should serve as such. While in the beginnings of MPC, several widely noticed review paper have been published, a comprehensive overview on the latest developments, and on applications, is missing today. This article reviews the current state of the art including theory, historic evolution, and practical considerations to create intuitive understanding. We lay special attention on applications in order to demonstrate what is already possible today. Furthermore, we provide detailed discussion on implantation details in general and strategies to cope with the computational burden—still a major factor in the design of MPC. Besides key methods in the development of MPC, this review points to the future trends emphasizing why they are the next logical steps in MPC.
Complement activation in IgA nephropathy
Authors: Medjeral-Thomas Nicholas R. , Cook H. Terence , Pickering Matthew C. 
Published: August 2021

AbstractIgA nephropathy pathogenesis is incompletely understood, and this limits the development of disease-specific biomarkers and effective therapies. Evidence of complement activity in IgA nephropathy is well established. However, a growing body of research indicates complement activity is an important contributor to IgA nephropathy pathology. In particular, multiple associations have been identified between complement alternative, lectin and terminal pathway proteins and IgA nephropathy severity. Recently, we have also gained insight into possible mechanisms that could link glomerular IgA deposition, complement activity, glomerular inflammation and disease severity. Ongoing clinical trials of therapeutic complement inhibitors will provide insight into the importance of complement activity to IgA nephropathy pathogenesis. Further research into mechanisms of complement activity is essential to improving our understanding and management of patients with IgA nephropathy.
Possible roles of anti-type II collagen antibody and innate immunity in the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Ikeda Tsunehiko , Nakamura Kimitoshi , Kida Teruyo , Oku Hidehiro 
Published: August 2021

AbstractThe pathogenesis of both diabetic retinopathy (DR) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has recently been considered to involve autoimmunity. Serum and synovial fluid levels of anti-type II collagen antibodies increase early after the onset of RA, thus inducing immune responses and subsequent hydrarthrosis and angiogenesis, which resemble diabetic macular edema and proliferative DR (PDR), respectively. We previously reported that DR is also associated with increased serum levels of anti-type II collagen antibodies. Retinal hypoxia in DR may induce pericytes to express type II collagen, resulting in autoantibody production against type II collagen. As the result of blood-retinal barrier disruption, anti-type II collagen antibodies in the serum come into contact with type II collagen around the retinal vessels. A continued loss of pericytes and type II collagen around the retinal vessels may result in a shift of the immune reaction site from the retina to the vitreous. It has been reported that anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages increased in the vitreous of PDR patients, accompanied by the activation of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, a key regulator of innate immunity. M2 macrophages promote angiogenesis and fibrosis, which might be exacerbated and prolonged by dysregulated innate immunity.