bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Branched phenyl‐s‐triazine moieties to enhance thermal properties of phthalonitrile thermosets
Authors: Zu Yuan , Li Guiyang , Zong Lishuai , Qiao Liyuan , Wang Jinyan , Jian Xigao 
Published: October 2017

AbstractHeat‐resistant materials have made tremendous progress in marine, aerospace and microelectronic fields. Herein, a new class of phthalonitrile resins, branched poly(biphenyl ether triphenyl‐s‐triazine) phthalonitriles, were successfully synthesized via a two‐step, one‐pot reaction, on the basis of 2,4,6‐tris(4‐fluorophenyl)‐1,3,5‐triazine and 4,4′‐biphenol. 4,4′‐Diaminodiphenylsulfone was employed to facilitate the curing reaction, and successful realization of curing behavior was concluded from rheological and differential scanning calorimetric studies, indicating the obtained resins possess favorable processability. The relationship between concentration of reactants and properties of the resins was systematically studied. After thermal curing, the E‐glass fiber‐reinforced composite, prepared with a concentration of reactants of 0.15 g mL−1, shows an admirable glass transition temperature of 480 °C and commendable thermal stability with 5% weight loss temperature in nitrogen of 563 °C, suggesting that the improvement of the thermal properties stems from the branched structure and the phenyl‐s‐triazine units. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of ceiling temperature and thermodynamic properties of low ceiling temperature polyaldehydes
Authors: Schwartz Jared M. , Engler Anthony , Phillips Oluwadamilola , Lee Jihyun , Kohl Paul A. 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACTKnowledge of the ceiling temperature and thermodynamic variables for low ceiling temperature polymers is critical to understanding the material's synthesis and use. Synthesis of the polymer below its ceiling temperature is the routine polymerization route. In situ 1H NMR of the equilibrium polymerization reaction can provide critical information for determining the enthalpy and entropy of polymer formation. Three polyaldehydes were synthesized with in situ 1H NMR, and their energies of formation were determined for the linear region of ceiling temperature. Insights into the mechanism of polymerization were also found using this method. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 221–228
Conjugated polymers based on 1,8‐naphthalene monoimide with high electron mobility
Authors: Zhu Guomin , Zhang Youdi , Hu Yu , Zhao Xiaohong , Yuan Zhongyi , Chen Yiwang 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACT1,4,8,9‐Naphthalene diimides (NDIs) with strong electron accepting ability and high stability are excellent building blocks for semiconductor polymers. However, 1,8‐naphthalene monoimide (NMI) with similar structure and energy levels as that of NDI has never been used to construct conjugated polymers because of synthetic difficulty. Herein, 3,6‐dibromo‐NMI (DBNMI) with bulky alkyl groups was obtained effectively in a four‐step synthesis, and three donor‐acceptor (D‐A) type conjugated polymers based on NMI were firstly prepared. These polymers have strong absorption in the range of 300–600 nm, low LUMO level of 3.68 eV, and moderate bandgaps of 2.18 eV. Space charge limiting current measurements indicate these polymers are typical electron transporting materials, and the highest electron mobility is up to 5.8 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1, which is close to the star acceptor based on NDI (N2200, 5.0 × 10−3 cm2 V−1 s−1). © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 276–281
Are community‐based health worker interventions an effective approach for early diagnosis of cancer? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bellhouse Sarah , McWilliams Lorna , Firth Joseph , Yorke Janelle , French David P. 
Published: October 2017

AbstractObjectiveThis systematic review aimed to assess the effectiveness of community‐based health worker (CBHW) interventions for early detection of cancer. Secondary aims were to consider the extent that interventions were based on theory, and potential moderators including behaviour change techniques (BCTs).MethodsSix databases were searched for randomized controlled trials. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were applied to 30 eligible studies with a cancer screening outcome.ResultsParticipation in CBHW interventions was associated with increased receipt of screening (OR = 1.901, 95% CI: 1.60–2.26, P < 0.001) for breast, cervical, and bowel cancer. Larger effect sizes were observed in participants previously non‐adherent with recommended schedules of cancer screening. Twenty‐five out of 30 studies were conducted with ethnic minority groups. Only 15 (45%) studies explicitly reported a theoretical foundation for intervention. The number of BCTs used by CBHWs had a trend level association with observed effect size (P = 0.08). Study quality was generally poor, and common limitations were inadequate blinding and reliance on self‐reported outcomes.ConclusionsCommunity‐based health worker interventions are an effective resource for increasing uptake of all 3 types of cancer screening in ethnic minority groups. Those previously non‐adherent with recommended schedules of cancer screening benefitted the most from the CBHW approach. However, better quality studies based on more explicit evidence‐based theory are needed to optimise the effectiveness of CBHW interventions on screening uptake. Further research is needed to ascertain whether CBHWs can help promote symptom recognition and help‐seeking behaviour to facilitate early diagnosis of cancer.
Concise Review: Epigenetic Regulation of Hematopoiesis: Biological Insights and Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Antoniani Chiara , Romano Oriana , Miccio Annarita 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Hematopoiesis is the process of blood cell formation starting from hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs). The understanding of regulatory networks involved in hematopoiesis and their impact on gene expression is crucial to decipher the molecular mechanisms that control hematopoietic development in physiological and pathological conditions, and to develop novel therapeutic strategies. An increasing number of epigenetic studies aim at defining, on a genome-wide scale, the cis-regulatory sequences (e.g., promoters and enhancers) used by human HSPCs and their lineage-restricted progeny at different stages of development. In parallel, human genetic studies allowed the discovery of genetic variants mapping to cis-regulatory elements and associated with hematological phenotypes and diseases. Here, we summarize recent epigenetic and genetic studies in hematopoietic cells that give insights into human hematopoiesis and provide a knowledge basis for the development of novel therapeutic approaches. As an example, we discuss the therapeutic approaches targeting cis-regulatory regions to reactivate fetal hemoglobin for the treatment of β-hemoglobinopathies. Epigenetic studies allowed the definition of cis-regulatory sequences used by human hematopoietic cells. Promoters and enhancers are targeted by transcription factors and are characterized by specific histone modifications. Genetic variants mapping to cis-regulatory elements are often associated with hematological phenotypes and diseases. In some cases, these variants can alter the binding of transcription factors, thus changing the expression of the target genes. Targeting cis-regulatory sequences represents a promising therapeutic approach for many hematological diseases.
Efficacy and safety of the traditional Japanese herbal medicine kamikihito for bone marrow suppression, particularly thrombocytopenia, during chemotherapy for advanced recurrent ovarian cancer
Authors: Yanase Toru , Kikuchi Akira , Sasagawa Motoi 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACTAimThe aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the traditional herbal medicine kamikihito for bone marrow suppression, particularly thrombocytopenia, during cancer chemotherapy.MethodsThis retrospective pilot study investigated changes in hemoglobin (Hb) and neutrophil and platelet (Plt) count from before to after kamikihito treatment in nine patients with advanced recurrent ovarian cancer who developed grade ≥3 thrombocytopenia during chemotherapy (13 and 16 cycles before and after kamikihito use, respectively).ResultsAlthough the nadir Hb did not change significantly, the degree of change in Hb (baseline – nadir) during respective chemotherapy cycles (before vs after kamikihito use: 1.8 vs 1.0 g/dL), was significantly mitigated after kamikihito use. The nadir neutrophil count and degree of change in neutrophil count did not differ with kamikihito use. The nadir Plt count was slightly higher after kamikihito use (before, 2.9 × 104/μL; after, 3.4 × 104/μL), and the degree of change in Plt count (before, 12.7 × 104/μL vs after, 10.9 × 104/μL), was significantly mitigated after kamikihito use. Finally, significantly fewer days were required for Plt recovery from the nadir to a ≤grade 2 Plt count decrease after kamikihito use (before, 9.3 days; after, 5.8 days).ConclusionIn patients undergoing chemotherapy for advanced recurrent ovarian cancer, kamikihito could alleviate anemia and thrombocytopenia and reduce the risk of requiring blood transfusion. Future prospective studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to accumulate further data.
Counting ovarian antral follicles by ultrasound: a practical guide
Authors: Coelho Neto M. A. , Ludwin A. , Borrell A. , Benacerraf B. , Dewailly D. , da Silva Costa F. , Condous G. , Alcazar J. L. , Jokubkiene L. , Guerriero S. , Van den Bosch T. , Martins W. P. 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACTThis Consensus Opinion summarizes the main aspects of several techniques for performing ovarian antral follicle count (AFC), proposes a standardized report and provides recommendations for future research. AFC should be performed using a transvaginal ultrasound (US) probe with frequency ≥ 7 MHz. For training, we suggest a minimum of 20–40 supervised examinations. The operator should be able to adjust the machine settings in order to achieve the best contrast between follicular fluid and ovarian stroma. AFC may be evaluated using real‐time two‐dimensional (2D) US, stored 2D‐US cine‐loops and stored three‐dimensional (3D) US datasets. Real‐time 2D‐US has the advantage of permitting additional maneuvers to determine whether an anechoic structure is a follicle, but may require a longer scanning time, particularly when there is a large number of follicles, resulting in more discomfort to the patient. 2D‐US cine‐loops have the advantages of reduced scanning time and the possibility for other observers to perform the count. The 3D‐US technique requires US machines with 3D capability and the operators to receive additional training for acquisition/analysis, but has the same advantages as cine‐loop and also allows application of different imaging techniques, such as volume contrast imaging, inversion mode and semi‐automated techniques such as sonography‐based automated volume calculation. In this Consensus Opinion, we make certain recommendations based on the available evidence. However, there is no strong evidence that any one method is better than another; the operator should choose the best method for counting ovarian follicles based on availability of resources and on their own preference and skill. More studies evaluating how to improve the reliability of AFC should be encouraged. Copyright © 2017 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Taxation and agency conflicts between firm owners and managers: a review
Authors: Bauer Thomas , Kourouxous Thomas , Krenn Peter 
Published: October 2017

AbstractWhen analyzing the influence of taxation on agency conflicts between firm owners and managers, one can draw on theoretical principal–agent literature from various research fields. In recent years, this interdisciplinary research has grown significantly covering research with regards to optimal compensation, investment decisions, tax avoidance and transfer pricing while analyzing the effects of corporate income taxes, wage taxes, bonus taxes and shareholder taxes. Our paper provides a comprehensive review of analytical literature that studies the influence of taxation on agency conflicts between firm owners and managers. Above and beyond summarizing research findings, we discuss how taxes are commonly implemented in agency models, derive empirical predictions, and identify research gaps for future tax research.
Evaluation of weekly paclitaxel plus carboplatin followed by anthracycline chemotherapy on the neoadjuvant treatment of patients with triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Castrellon Aurelio B. , Velez Michel , Nguyen Steven M. , Blaya Marcelo , Barnick Sandra , Dumais Katerine , LeCroy Nicholas , Raez Luis E. 
Published: October 2017

Objective:
To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with weekly paclitaxel in combination with weekly carboplatin area under curve 2 followed by anthracycline chemotherapy.

Patients and methods:
This is a retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients (N = 32) with stage 1c–III triple-negative breast cancer. Patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy with paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 once per week for 12 weeks in combination with car-boplatin area under curve 2 once per week for 12 weeks (wP + wCb), followed by a standard anthracycline regimen including either doxorubicin 60 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 every 2 or 3 weeks, or epirubicin 90 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 every 3 weeks for four cycles with myeloid growth factor support.

Results:
Most patients (91%) received all 12 cycles of wP + wCb, and 88% received all four planned cycles of anthracycline chemotherapy. Of the patients, 84% completed all planned therapies. The complete pathologic response rate was 60%. In terms of hematologic toxicity, 96% of the patients experienced grade ≥3 leucopenia, 40% grade ≥3 anemia, and 15% grade ≥3 thrombocytopenia, and neutropenic fever was seen in 22% of the patients.

Conclusion:
The combination of neoadjuvant chemotherapy with wP + wCb before anthracycline chemotherapy can be tolerated by patients with triple-negative breast cancer. Complete pathologic response rates were comparable with those historically seen. Careful selection of patients is fundamental as this regimen is associated with a high incidence of hematologic toxicity.
Impact of supply base structural complexity on financial performance: Roles of visible and not‐so‐visible characteristics
Authors: Lu Guanyi , Shang Guangzhi 
Published: October 2017

AbstractSupply chains have become increasingly complex in the last decade, which makes their structural characteristics important determinants of firm performance. Prior studies on supply chain structure have largely emphasized network‐level attributes but ignored supply‐base level characteristics. However, in many cases it is the 1st tier suppliers, not those “deep in the network,” that have most immediate influence on the buyer. In addition, some structural characteristics, such as direct links between the buyer's suppliers and its customers, are not‐so‐visible to the buyer, yet can impact its financial performance dramatically. The existing literature has overlooked these not‐so‐visible structural links. Using objective supply chain data collected from Mergent Online and Compustat, we map the supply base structure of 867 public firms. We construct three visible (horizontal, vertical and spatial) and two not‐so‐visible (eliminative and cooperative) structural complexity metrics, and examine their impacts on buyer firms' financial performance as measured by Return on Assets and Tobin's Q. Our empirical analysis shows that the five dimensions have differential effects: some have negligible impacts while others appear to strongly affect financial performance. Contrary to the common belief that complexity hurts performance, we find that an individual complexity dimension may have both positive and negative effects, and the overall effect may be non‐linear.
Testosterone Therapy and Risk of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Hypogonadal Men: An Administrative Health Care Claims Study
Authors: Li Hu , Mitchell Lucy , Zhang Xiang , Heiselman Darell , Motsko Stephen 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Background
There are some ongoing debates on the potential link between testosterone therapy (TT) and risk of acute myocardial infarction (MI).

Aim
To investigate the association between acute MI and TT use compared with non-use in men having documented hypogonadism (diagnostic International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes 257.2, 257.8, 257.9, 758.7) in patient claims records.

Methods
This retrospective cohort study used a real-world US-based administrative health care claims database (MarketScan 2004–2013; Truven Health Analytics, Ann Arbor, MI, USA) to compare MI rates between TT-treated men and a cohort of untreated hypogonadal men matched by a calendar time-specific propensity score. Subgroup analyses were performed by route of administration, age, and prior cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Outcomes
Incidence rates of MI (per 1,000 person-years) and hazard ratio.

Results
After 1:1 calendar time-specific propensity score matching, 207,176 TT-treated men and 207,176 untreated hypogonadal men were included in the analysis (mean age = 51.8 years). Incidence rates of MI were 4.20 (95% CI = 3.87–4.52) in the TT-treated cohort and 4.67 (95% CI = 4.43–4.90) in the untreated hypogonadal cohort. Cox regression model showed no significant association between TT use and MI when comparing TT-treated with untreated hypogonadal men overall (hazard ratio = 0.99, 95% CI = 0.89–1.09), by age, or by prior CVD. A significant association was observed when comparing a subgroup of injectable (short- and long-acting combined) TT users with untreated hypogonadal men (hazard ratio = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.24–1.93).

Clinical Implication
In this study, there was no association between TT (overall) and risk of acute MI.

Strengths and Limitations
Strengths included the use of a comprehensive real-world database, sophisticated matching based on calendar blocks of 6 months to decrease potential bias in this observational study, carefully chosen index dates for the untreated cohort to avoid immortal time bias, and implemented sensitivity analysis to further investigate the findings (stratification by administration route, age, and prior CVD). Key limitations included no information about adherence, hypogonadism condition based solely on diagnosis (no information on clinical symptoms or testosterone levels), lack of information on disease severity, inability to capture diagnoses, medical procedures, and medicine dispensing if corresponding billing codes were not generated and findings could contain biases or fail to generalize well to other populations.

Conclusion
This large, retrospective, real-world observational study showed no significant association between TT use and acute MI when comparing TT-treated with untreated hypogonadal men overall, by age, or by prior CVD; the suggested association between injectable TT and acute MI deserves further investigation.
How Big is Too Big? The Girth of Bestselling Insertive Sex Toys to Guide Maximal Neophallus Dimensions
Authors: Isaacson Dylan , Aghili Roxana , Wongwittavas Non , Garcia Maurice 
Published: October 2017

Abstract

Background
In our practice we have encountered 4 female-to-male transgender patients seeking neophallus revision surgery for girth precluding penetrative vaginal or anal intercourse. Despite this, there is little evidence available to guide transitioning patients in neophallus sizing. In this work we examined the dimensions of bestselling realistic dildos, presuming that the most popular dimensions would reflect population preferences for penetrative toys and phalluses.

Aim
To determine a maximal upper limit for girth compatible with penetrative intercourse based on measurements of bestselling realistic dildos and published erect penile dimensions.

Methods
We collected measurements for “realistic dildos” designated as bestsellers for the top 5 Alexa.com-rated online adult retailers in the United States and for Amazon.com. We compared these with measurements of dildos available at Good Vibrations in San Francisco and with studies of erect natal dimensions. We compared all data with measurements of 4 index patients whose neophallus girth prevented penetrative intercourse.

Outcomes
Length and circumference of overall bestselling and largest bestselling realistic dildos as reported on top websites and measured by investigators.

Results
The average insertive length of the compiled dildos (16.7 ± 1.6 cm) was 1 SD longer than natal functional erect penile length as reported in the literature (15.7 ± 2.6 cm); however, their average circumference (12.7 ± 0.8 cm) mirrored natal erect penile girth (12.3 ± 1.3). The average girth of vendors' top 3 largest-girth dildos was 15.1 ± 0.9 cm, 2 SD wider than natal erect penile girth. Index patients had an average length of 16.3 ± 3.2 cm and an average girth of 17.6 ± 1.3 cm. Index patient girth was 4 to 5 SD wider than the average natal erect girth.

Clinical Implications
Based on our data, we suggest that a surgically created neophallus should have a girth no wider than 15.1 cm after implantation of an inflatable penile prosthesis. This corresponds to 2 SD wider than the average natal man's erect girth.

Strengths and Limitations
Strengths include in-person measurements of patients whose girth prevented penetrative intercourse, the large number of dildos assessed, and correlations with in-person measurements. Limitations include the inability to account for the pliability of different materials, whether dildos were used for vaginal and/or anal insertion, the limited sample of 4 transmen for in-person measurement, and the absence of implanted inflatable penile prostheses in index neophalluses.

Conclusions
Neophallus girth wider than 15.1 cm could lead to difficulty in penetrative intercourse for many individuals. A conservative recommendation for neophallus girth is 13 to 14 cm, or 0.5 to 1.5 SD wider than natal erect penile girth.