bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of chain extender on microphase structure and performance of self‐healing polyurethane and poly(urethane‐urea)
Authors: Wang Yulong , Li Yaqiong , He Maoyong , Bai Jingjing , Liu Bingxiao , Li Zhenzhong 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn this work, four aliphatic chain extenders, hexanediol (HDO), hexane diamine (HDA), cystamine (CY), and cystine dimethyl ester (CDE), were chosen to synthesize four kinds of polyurethane and poly(urethane‐urea)s (PUs), respectively. HDO extended polyurethanes, HDA extended poly(urethane‐urea), CY extended poly(urethane‐urea), and CDE extended poly(urethane‐urea) were denoted as OPU, APU, CPU, and SPU, respectively. The effect of chain extender type on microphase structure and performance of four PUs was investigated. Our research showed that mechanical strength increased in the following order: OPU < SPU < CPU < APU, and self‐healing performance increased in the opposite direction. This result is attributed to the increasing degree of microphase separation: OPU < SPU < CPU < APU. The optimal sample SPU has not only excellent mechanical properties (tensile strength of 27.1 MPa and elongation at break of 397.7%), but also exhibits superior self‐healing performance (self‐healing efficiencies of 95.3% and 93.5% based on tensile strength and elongation at break). The moderate degree of microphase separation between the soft segments and the hard segments, the introduction of disulfide bonds and low degree of hydrogen bonding are responsible for preparing a polyurethane or poly(urethane‐urea) system with high mechanical strength and excellent self‐healing performance simultaneously. This work provides useful information for us to develop self‐healing polyurethane or poly(urethane‐urea) materials in the future.
Crashing from cadaver to computer: Covid‐driven crisis‐mode pedagogy spawns active online substitute for teaching gross anatomy
Authors: Harrell Kelly M. , McGinn Melissa J. , Edwards Cherie D. , Warren Foster Kenneth , Meredith M. Alex 
Published: July 2021

AbstractIn early 2020, the Covid‐19 crisis forced medical institutions worldwide to convert quickly to online platforms for content delivery. Although many components of medical education were adaptable to that format, anatomical dissection laboratory lost substantial content in that conversion, including features of active student participation, three‐dimensional spatial relationships of structures, and the perception of texture, variation, and scale. The present study aimed to develop and assess online anatomy laboratory sessions that sought to preserve benefits of the dissection experience for first‐year medical students. The online teaching package was based on a novel form of active videography that emulates eye movement patterns that occur during processes of visual identification, scene analysis, and learning. Using this video‐image library of dissected materials, content was presented through asynchronous narrated laboratory demonstrations and synchronous/active video conference sessions and included a novel, video‐based assessment tool. Data were obtained using summative assessments and a final course evaluation. Test scores for the online practical examination were significantly improved over those for previous in‐person dissection‐based examinations, as evidenced by several measures of performance (Mean: 2015–2019: 82.5%; 2020: 94.9%; P = 0.003). Concurrently, didactic test scores were slightly, but not significantly, improved (Mean: 2015–2019: 88.0%; 2020: 89.9%). Student evaluations of online sessions and overall course were highly positive. Results indicated that this innovative online teaching package can provide an effective alternative when in‐person dissection laboratory is unavailable. Although this approach consumed considerable faculty time for video editing, further development will include video conference breakout rooms to emulate dissection small‐group teamwork.
Boundary control for PDE flexible manipulators: Accommodation to both actuator faults and sensor faults
Authors: Cao Fangfei , Liu Jinkun 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThis paper focuses on the controller design and vibration elimination for a flexible single‐link manipulator. The flexible single‐link manipulator considered in this paper is described by partial differential equations (PDEs). Considering actuator faults and sensor faults simultaneously, a novel boundary controller is designed for the flexible manipulator system. The actuator faults are special since the control directions are unknown. In the proposed controller, the Nussbaum‐type function is used, and an adaptive law is applied. The system performance analysis is given with the aid of Lyapunov approach, and the closed‐loop PDE system is guaranteed to have semi‐global uniform ultimate boundedness (SGUUB). In simulation, several cases are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed controller, under actuator faults and sensor faults.
Synthesis, characterization, and self‐assembly of fluorescent fluorine‐containing liquid crystals
Authors: Radwan Ahmed S. , Makhlouf Mohamed M. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractSNAr has been used to synthesize various functionalized derivatives of pentafluorobenzenes which are highly specific at the para position; and consequently are ideal for building calamitic (rod‐like) liquid crystalline molecular systems. Here, we display the effectiveness of SNAr chemistry as a convenient method toward the synthesis of fluorescent liquid crystalline perfluorinated comprising ethers and thioethers in excellent yields and high purity. In the current work, we describe the synthesis, self‐assembly, and mesogenic properties of new perfluorinated para‐terphenyls bearing various para‐substituted alkoxy and thioalkoxy chains. The terphenyl core was prepared using Cu(I) (or Cu(I)/phenanthroline)‐catalyzed decarboxylative carbon–carbon (or carbon–oxygen [sulfur]) cross‐coupling from the analogous aromatic iodide and fluorobenzoate potassium salt. The molecular structures of the prepared perfluorinated terphenyls were demonstrated with 1H, 13C, and 19F NMR, as well as FT‐IR and X‐ray crystallography. The liquid crystalline properties and mesogenic phases were characterized with differential scanning calorimetry and high‐resolution polarized optical microscope. Both UV–visible absorbance and emission spectra demonstrated solvatochromism. Supramolecular self‐assembly of the generated perfluorinated para‐terphenyls was monitored by van der Waals and π–π stacking interaction forces. The creation of nanofibrous architectures was monitored by scanning electron microscopy.
Prevalence, trends, and outcomes of atrial fibrillation in hospitalized patients with metastatic cancer: findings from a national sample
Authors: Han Hedong , Chen Longpei , Lin Zhen , Wei Xin , Guo Wei , Yu Yamei , Wu Cheng , Cao Yang , He Jia 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundEpidemiological evidence regarding the link between cancer and atrial fibrillation (AF) are limited and outcomes of metastatic cancer comorbid with AF need to be elucidated.ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the prevalence, temporal trends, and outcomes of AF in hospitalized metastatic cancer patients.MethodsThe National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was used to identify adult patients with metastatic tumors from 2003 to 2014. We analyzed the trends in AF prevalence, in‐hospital mortality, total cost, length of stay (LOS), and comorbidities pertaining to metastatic cancer. Multivariable‐adjusted models were used to evaluate the association of AF with clinical factors, in‐hospital mortality, total cost, and LOS.ResultsAmong 2,478,598 patients with metastatic cancer, 8.74% (216,737) were diagnosed with AF. The proportion of comorbid AF increased from 8.28% in 2003 to 10.06% in 2014 (p < 0.0001). Older age, white race, male, Medicare, higher income, larger hospital bed size, and urban teaching hospital were associated with higher AF occurrence. Among primary tumor sites, lung cancer experienced the highest odds of AF compared to other cancers. Patients with metastasis to lymph node and respiratory organ had higher odds of AF. In metastatic cancer, AF was associated with higher in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio: 1.48; 95% confidence interval: 1.43–1.54), 18% longer LOS, and 19% higher cost.ConclusionsAF prevalence in metastatic cancer continues to increase from 2003 to 2014. AF is linked to poorer prognosis and higher healthcare resource utilization. As the population ages, optimal preventive and treatment management strategies are needed for metastatic cancer comorbid with AF.
Women who remain in relationships with registered sexual offenders: Analysis of forum discussion
Authors: Jones Emma , Giles David C. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractRegistered sexual offenders (RSOs) are inevitably on the receiving end of much negative evaluation within society. By association, individuals in close relationships with RSOs may experience what Goffman (1963) [Stigma: Notes on the management of spoiled identity. Simon & Schuster Ltd.] termed ‘courtesy stigma’, through which they are also negatively evaluated. The present study explores this phenomenon in the contemporary context of online discussion. Drawing on recent methodological developments in the microanalysis of online data, three specific threads from online parenting forums are examined, each opening with a specific account of their dilemma by women in intimate relationships with RSOs. Analysis of the sequential interaction within each thread demonstrates the way that stigma is performed by online parenting communities and how individuals manage that stigma as the interaction unfolds. We conclude that partners of RSOs, unlike family members, can mitigate courtesy stigma by ending the relationship, but otherwise risk being ostracised by community members.
Long term outcomes of ultrathin versus standard thickness second‐generation drug eluting stents: Meta‐analysis of randomized trials
Authors: Hussain Yasin , Gaston Samantha , Kluger Jonathan , Shah Tayyab , Yang Yiping , Tirziu Daniela , Lansky Alexandra 
Published: July 2021

AbstractObjectiveIdentify the effect of ultrathin drug eluting stents on long term outcomes in coronary artery disease.BackgroundAlthough second‐generation drug eluting stents (DES) are superior to first‐generation DES, persistence of adverse outcomes has led to continued refinement in design. Ultrathin second‐generation DES have been shown to improve outcomes at 1‐year follow‐up. Beyond 1‐year their effect remains unknown.MethodsPubMed, Embase and Cochrane Database were searched for randomized controlled trials that compared ultrathin (defined as <70 um) to standard thickness second‐generation DES. Studies were chosen according to the PROSPERO protocol (CRD42020185374). Data from randomized controlled trials were pooled using random‐effects model (Mantel–Haenszel). The primary outcome was target lesion failure (TLF) at 2 years, a composite of cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, and ischemia‐driven target vessel revascularization. Secondary outcomes included TLF at 3 and 5 years, the components of TLF and definite or probable stent thrombosis. Differences in outcomes between groups were presented in Forest plots as risk ratios (RR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each trial.ResultsWe identified 18 publications from 10 trials with14,649 patients. At 2‐years there was a significant 12% reduction in TLF (RR, 0.88; 95% CI 0.78–0.99; p < 0.05) associated with the use of ultrathin DES. At 3‐years, there was a significant 19% reduction in TLF with ultrathin DES (RR, 0.79; 95% CI 0.64–0.98; p < 0.05).ConclusionIn patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, ultrathin DES improve long term clinical outcomes.
Diagnosing indirect relationships in multivariate calibration models
Authors: Eskildsen Carl Emil , Engelsen Søren B. , Dankel Katinka R. , Solberg Lars Erik , Næs Tormod 
Published: July 2021

AbstractProblems concerning covariance among independent variables are well understood and dealt with by inverse regression methods like partial least squares regression. However, covariance between dependent variables has only received minor attention. Biological samples are often complex mixtures of multiple covarying compounds. During multivariate calibration, analyte predictions may be mediated through relationships with interfering compounds, which implies that the calibration model is not providing a direct link between the multivariate measurements and the analyte of interest. This compromises robustness and validity of the calibration model—important aspects when applying the model to future samples and data sets. This study discusses issues of calibration modeling when strong covariance structures exist among the analyte of interest and interfering compounds.We propose a projection‐based method to diagnose whether indirect covariance structures dominate the calibration model. The proposed method is tested on a two‐constituent Beer's law system consisting of 20 aqueous samples with covarying amounts of fructose (analyte of interest) and riboflavin (interfering compound). Transmission measurements are obtained on all samples in the visual and near‐infrared wavelength ranges. Riboflavin has strong absorption in the visual region, whereas fructose exclusively absorbs in the near‐infrared region. Hence, predictions of fructose concentrations, obtained from the visual wavelength range only, are fully mediated through riboflavin, whereas fructose predictions obtained from the near‐infrared wavelength range may be obtained independent of riboflavin.
Local Light‐Controlled Generation of Calcium Carbonate and Barium Carbonate Biomorphs via Photochemical Stimulation
Authors: Menichetti Arianna , Mavridi‐Printezi Alexandra , Falini Giuseppe , Besirske Patricia , García‐Ruiz Juan Manuel , Cölfen Helmut , Montalti Marco 
Published: July 2021

AbstractPhotochemical activation is proposed as a general method for controlling the crystallization of sparingly soluble carbonates in space and time. The photogeneration of carbonate in an alkaline environment is achieved upon photo‐decarboxylation of an organic precursor by using a conventional 365 nm UV LED. Local irradiation was conducted focusing the LED light on a 300 μm radius spot on a closed glass crystallization cell. The precursor solution was optimized to avoid the precipitation of the photoreaction organic byproducts and prevent photo‐induced pH changes to achieve the formation of calcium carbonate only in the corresponding irradiated area. The crystallization was monitored in real‐time by time‐lapse imaging. The method is also shown to work in gels. Similarly, it was also shown to photo‐activate locally the formation of barium carbonate biomorphs. In the last case, the morphology of these biomimetic structures was tuned by changing the irradiation intensity.
The safety of morphine in patients with acute heart failure: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Lai Wei , Liu Xiao , Shen Yang , Hong Kui 
Published: July 2021

AbstractWhile morphine has long been widely used in treating acute heart failure (AHF) due to its vasodilatory properties and anticipated anxiolysis, it remains unclear whether the application of morphine to those patients is reasonable. We aim to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the safety of morphine in patients with AHF. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase electronic databases from inception through March 2020. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate the outcomes. Seven studies with 172, 226 patients were included. The results showed that morphine usage was not associated with increased in‐hospital mortality (OR: 1.94; 95% CI 0.93 to 4.03; p = 0.08). However, the use of morphine significantly increased the risk of invasive ventilation (OR: 2.72; 95% CI 1.09 to 6.80; p = 0.03). Furthermore, the subgroup analysis indicated that the application of morphine was not associated with increased 7‐day all‐cause mortality in patients with AHF (OR: 1.69; 95% CI 0.80 to 3.22; p = 0.11) but significantly increased the risk of 30‐day all‐cause mortality (OR: 1.59; 95% CI 1.16 to 2.17; p = 0.004). Based on current evidence, our results suggested that although morphine therapy did not significantly increase the risk of short‐term death (in the hospital or within 7 days) in patients with AHF, the risk of long‐term death and invasive ventilation were significantly increased. This result needs to be further confirmed by an ongoing randomized control trial.
METTL3 Inhibitors for Epitranscriptomic Modulation of Cellular Processes
Authors: Moroz‐Omori Elena V. , Huang Danzhi , Kumar Bedi Rajiv , Cheriyamkunnel Sherry J. , Bochenkova Elena , Dolbois Aymeric , Rzeczkowski Maciej D. , Li Yaozong , Wiedmer Lars , Caflisch Amedeo 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe methylase METTL3 is the writer enzyme of the N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA. Using a structure‐based drug discovery approach, we identified a METTL3 inhibitor with potency in a biochemical assay of 280 nM, while its enantiomer is 100 times less active. We observed a dose‐dependent reduction in the m6A methylation level of mRNA in several cell lines treated with the inhibitor already after 16 h of treatment, which lasted for at least 6 days. Importantly, the prolonged incubation (up to 6 days) with the METTL3 inhibitor did not alter levels of other RNA modifications (i. e., m1A, m6Am, m7G), suggesting selectivity of the developed compound towards other RNA methyltransferases.
Fluorescent Amino Acid Initiated de novo Cyclic Peptides for the Label‐Free Assessment of Cell Permeability**
Authors: Wu Yuteng , Bertran M. Teresa , Rowley James , Calder Ewen D. D. , Joshi Dhira , Walport Louise J. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractThe major obstacle in applying peptides to intracellular targets is their low inherent cell permeability. Standard approaches to attach a fluorophore (e. g. FITC, TAMRA) can change the physicochemical properties of the parent peptide and influence their ability to penetrate and localize in cells. We report a label‐free strategy for evaluating the cell permeability of cyclic peptide leads. Fluorescent tryptophan analogues 4‐cyanotryptophan (4CNW) and β‐(1‐azulenyl)‐L‐alanine (AzAla) were incorporated into in vitro translated macrocyclic peptides by initiator reprogramming. We then demonstrate these efficient blue fluorescent emitters are good tools for monitoring peptide penetration into cells.
Transarterial chemoembolization plus lenvatinib versus transarterial chemoembolization plus sorafenib as first‐line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus: A prospective randomized study
Authors: Ding Xiaoyan , Sun Wei , Li Wei , Shen Yanjun , Guo Xiaodi , Teng Ying , Liu Xiaomin , Zheng Linlin , Li Wendong , Chen Jinglong 
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUNDThe efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus lenvatinib in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) have not been evaluated.METHODSIn this open‐label, single‐center, randomized trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04127396), participants with previously untreated HCC and type I‐IV PVTT were randomized 1:1 to receive TACE plus lenvatinib (arm L; orally once daily, 12 mg for body weight ≥60 kg or 8 mg for body weight <60 kg) or TACE plus sorafenib (arm S; 400 mg orally twice daily in 28‐day cycles). The primary end point was time‐to‐progression (TTP; time from randomization to disease progression) and secondary end points included objective response rate and toxicity. Prognostic factors were evaluated using a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model.RESULTSBetween December 30, 2018 and May 31, 2020, 64 patients were randomized (arm L, n = 32; arm S, n = 32); most patients had type I/II PVTT (71.9%), and the median target tumor diameter was 9.8 cm (range, 3.8‐21.8). After a median follow‐up of 16.1 months, patients in arm L had a higher median TTP (4.7 vs 3.1 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.55; 95% CI, 0.32‐0.95; P = .029) and objective response rate (53.1% vs 25.0%, P = .039) versus arm S. Multivariable analysis showed that TACE plus lenvatinib was significantly associated with higher TTP versus TACE plus sorafenib (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.28‐0.90; P = .021). Comparable safety profiles were observed in arms L and S.CONCLUSIONSTACE plus lenvatinib was safe, well tolerated, and had favorable efficacy versus TACE plus sorafenib in patients with advanced HCC with PVTT and large tumor burden.LAY SUMMARY

Hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus has a poor prognosis.

In addition, most phase 3 trials of drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma exclude patients with major portal vein invasion, and treatment options for these patients are limited.

Transarterial chemoembolization has shown promising efficacy in these patients, especially in combination with systemic treatment or radiotherapy. However, transarterial chemoembolization plus lenvatinib has not been investigated in this setting.

This open‐label, single‐center, randomized trial showed that transarterial chemoembolization plus lenvatinib is safe, well tolerated, and has favorable efficacy versus transarterial chemoembolization plus sorafenib for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus.
Cost evaluation of an exercise oncology intervention: The exercise in all chemotherapy trial
Authors: Potiaumpai Melanie , Doerksen Shawna E. , Chinchilli Vernon M. , Wu Hongke , Wang Li , Lintz Rachel , Schmitz Kathryn H. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractBackgroundThere is strong evidence supporting the efficacy of exercise oncology programs to improve physical and psychosocial outcomes during active treatment. However, there is a paucity of evidence on the effect of exercise on healthcare utilization and cost analyzes of exercise oncology programs.AimsOur objective was to assess the effects of a pragmatic exercise oncology program (ENACT) during active chemotherapy treatment on healthcare utilization and associated costs.MethodsWe conducted post‐hoc analyzes on 160 ENACT participants and 75 comparison participants matched on cancer site, stage, age range, and gender. We obtained complete healthcare utilization histories for each patient (specific to emergency department [ED] visits and hospital admissions) coinciding with their participation in ENACT. A sub‐analysis was conducted for advanced stage breast, gastrointestinal, and pancreatic cancer patients.ResultsHealthcare costs for patients who participated in the ENACT exercise oncology intervention were numerically lower than healthcare costs for the comparison group, even after accounting for the cost of the intervention. However, the differences were not statistically significant.ConclusionOur findings suggest that an exercise oncology program during active chemotherapy treatment are at least cost neutral for all cancer patients, including advanced stage cancers. Additional research is warranted to evaluate the potential for exercise oncology programs to reduce healthcare utilization, particularly in advanced cancer patients.