bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of peristaltic flow of micropolar fluid with nanoparticles through a porous medium under the effects of heat absorption and wall properties: Homotopy perturbation method
Authors: Eldabe Nabil T. , Ramadan Shaimaa F.
Published: December 2019

In the present examination, we have talked about the impacts of heat absorption, chemical reaction, and wall properties on the peristaltic stream of micropolar nanofluid through a permeable medium. The key conditions of the movement are first regulated and after that streamlined under the suspicions of long wavelength and low Reynolds number. The careful arrangements have been determined for the velocity and the microrotation velocity, while the administering conditions of energy and nanoparticle conditions are solved analytically utilizing the homotopy perturbation technique. At last, graphical outcomes are talked about to represent the impacts of different physical parameters of the issue on these dispersions.
Gaseous slip flow affected by inclined low magnetic field using second‐order boundary conditions
Authors: Al Khasawneh Khaleel , AlWardat Amani A. , Khashan Saud A.
Published: December 2019

In this study, asymptotic solutions of a near continuum gaseous slip flow in two‐dimensional rectangular microchannels under the effect of electromagnetic force are presented. An inclined magnetic field was assumed in this study. Nondimensional equations were obtained that relate the pressure ratio, Mach number, magnetic Reynolds number, magnetic force number, and Reynolds number. The asymptotic solutions for the compressible, laminar, and steady flow were obtained by applying second‐order slip velocity and temperature jump wall boundary conditions. It was found that the electric and magnetic field with inclined angle had significant effects on the flow properties. The solutions obtained here using the second‐order boundary conditions result in tangible improvement over those obtained using first‐order boundary conditions. We compared our solutions against the numerical solutions that were provided in the literature and showed that our solutions were in good agreement with the numerical solution.
Testing and comparing conditional risk‐return relationship with a new approach in the cross‐sectional framework
Authors: Messis Petros , Alexandridis Antonis , Zapranis Achilleas
Published: December 2019

This paper presents an innovative approach in examining the conditional relationship between beta and returns for stocks traded on S&P 500 for the period from July 2001 to June 2011. We challenge other competitive models with portfolios formed based on the book value per share and betas using monthly data. A novel approach for capturing time variation in betas whose pattern is treated as a function of market returns is developed and presented. The estimated coefficients of a nonlinear regression constitute the basis of creating a two factor model. Our results indicate that the proposed specification surpasses alternative models in explaining the cross‐section of returns. The implications of this study show that the proposed new risk factors that found to be significant both in time series and cross‐section analyses provide valuable information in better understanding the characteristics of returns, targeting the reinforcement of stock market efficiency, and the capital allocation procedure.
Potential health impact of environmental micro‐ and nanoplastics pollution
Authors: Chang Xiaoru , Xue Yuying , Li Jiangyan , Zou Lingyue , Tang Meng
Published: December 2019

Micro‐ and nanoplastics are generated from plastics and have negative impacts on the environment due to their high level of fragmentation. They can originate from various sources such as fragments, fibers and foams. The large proportion of the waste and resistance to degradation means micro‐ and nanoplastics have become a serious global environmental problem, but there are few studies on their potential toxicity for human health. In this review, we discussed routes of exposure and the potential effects of micro‐ and nanoplastics to human health. Human beings could mainly be exposed to micro‐ and nanoplastics orally and by inhalation. The possible toxic effects of plastic particles are due to the potential toxicity of plastics themselves, and their combined toxicity with leachable additives and adsorbed contaminants. The potential risks for human health focused on their gastrointestinal toxicity and liver toxicity. The toxic mechanisms could involve oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions and metabolism disorders. More studies are needed to carry out and explore the potential toxicological mechanisms of micro‐ and nanoplastics and evaluate the combined toxicity of their adsorbed contaminants.
Atomistic Simulation of Structural and Mechanical Properties of the AMgF3 (A = K, Rb, and Cs) Compounds Under Hydrostatic Pressure
Authors: Sousa Afranio , Lima Heveson
Published: December 2019

Structural, mechanical, elastic, and dielectric properties of the AMgF3 (A = K, Rb, and Cs) compounds were investigated using classical atomistic simulation. A new set of interatomic potentials was developed for these compounds. Lattice parameters and interatomic distances have shown to accurately reproduce all structures, with very close agreement to the experimental data. In all cases, the relative error is below 0.5%. Effect of hydrostatic pressure in the structural, mechanical, elastic, and dielectric properties of these materials were studied from 0 up to 50 GPa. Compounds behavior and stability under pressure were analyzed. KMgF3 and RbMgF3 changed from brittle to ductile at approximately 2 GPa. These calculations play an important role in understanding the properties of the AMgF3 (A = K, Rb, and Cs) compounds under pressure, and open up a new opportunity to study defects in this class of materials. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sequencing partial Steiner triple systems
Authors: Alspach Brian , Kreher Donald L. , Pastine Adrián
Published: December 2019

A partial Steiner triple system of order is sequenceable if there is a sequence of length of its distinct points such that no proper segment of the sequence is a union of point‐disjoint blocks. We prove that if a partial Steiner triple system has at most three point‐disjoint blocks, then it is sequenceable.
A one‐pot multicomponent Biginelli reaction for the preparation of novel pyrimidinthione derivatives as antimicrobial agents
Authors: Desai Nisheeth C. , Joshi Surbhi B. , Jadeja Krunalsinh A.
Published: December 2019

A convenient synthesis of pyrimidinthiones was carried out in presence of thiourea and easily available catalyst sulfamic acid (2a‐t). One‐pot Biginelli reaction is very important due to the use of simple and readily available chemicals, less reaction time, economically friendly, and furnishing good yield. Structures of the synthesized compounds are characterized by spectral techniques like IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and LC–MS. Synthesized compounds were studied for their antimicrobial activity against several strains of bacteria (E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus, S. pyogenes) and fungi (C. albicans, A. niger, and A. clavatus) using serial dilution method.
Total synthesis of (S)‐(+)‐ent‐phomapyrones B and surugapyrone B
Authors: Ohmukai Hiroaki , Sugiyama Yasumasa , Hirota Akira , Kirihata Mitsunori , Tanimori Shinji
Published: December 2019

Phomapyrone B (1), the 2‐pyrones isolated from the phytopathogenic fungus Leptosphaeria maculans, has been synthesized as the enantiomeric form starting from (S)‐2‐methylbutanol (4). Surugapyrone B (3) isolated from Streptmyces sp. USF‐6280 as an antioxidant has also been synthesized as a natural form. The absolute configuration of phomapyrone B (1) was estimated to be the (R)‐form and that of surugapyrone B (3) being the (S)‐form. A series of 2‐pyrone derivatives 17 have been synthesized through the established procedure and their DPPH radical‐scavenging activities have also been evaluated.
Observational and modelling evidence of a zonal circulation over the North Pacific
Authors: Zou Youjia , Xi Xiangying
Published: December 2019

The equatorial Pacific Walker Circulation (EPWC), characterized by ascending motion (lower sea‐level pressure [SLP]) over Indonesia and descending motion (higher SLP) over the Eastern Pacific, has been widely recognized. Yet, little is known about a zonal circulation over the North Pacific (hereafter referred to as NPZC) with ascent over the west coast of Canada and descent over the east coast of Russia, which plays an important role in maintaining Northern Hemisphere mid‐latitude climate. Here we provide evidence for the existence of the NPZC by comparing the eastern and western North Pacific around 50°N with the western and eastern equatorial Pacific, respectively. We find that the EPWC and NPZC bear strong similarity in many essential aspects, such as the zonal gradients of temperature and SLP, precipitation records and prevailing winds, and so on, thus, suggesting a NPZC. The existence of a NPZC is also strongly supported by observations in situ using radiosonde balloon soundings as well as numerical simulations.
Wildlife Interactions within Highway Underpasses
Authors: Caldwell Molly R. , Klip J. Mario K.
Published: December 2019

Highway underpasses are a common management tool used to lessen wildlife‐vehicle collisions on roadways. Despite their widespread use, the effects of predator‐prey interactions and human disturbances on wildlife within underpasses have not been well studied. To understand the effect of species interactions and human disturbances on wildlife traveling through underpasses, we analyzed camera data from 3 underpasses in Hallelujah Junction Wildlife Area, Sierra County, California, USA, from June 2017 to December 2018. We recorded 3,589 detections, which were predominately mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), rodents, lagomorphs, California quail (Callipepla californica), bobcats (Lynx rufus), mountain lions (Puma concolor), and coyotes (Canis latrans). We used occupancy modeling and daily activity estimates to analyze species' spatial and temporal activity within the underpasses. Predator‐prey interactions and human disturbances were among the most important factors that influenced wildlife travel through the underpasses. Mule deer avoided underpasses highly used by mountain lions, and mountain lions followed mule deer daily temporal activity patterns and seasonal activity patterns. These results indicate that predator‐prey interactions influenced deer and mountain lion use of the underpasses. Coyotes favored underpasses and seasons with higher rodent and lagomorph presence, suggesting that the presence of prey was also important to coyote use of the underpasses. Coyotes, mountain lions, and bobcats all exhibited either temporal or spatial avoidance of human activity within the underpasses. California quail avoided predators within the underpasses and favored underpasses and times with high human activity. Our study suggests that underpass managers need to closely monitor the effect of predator‐prey interactions and human activity on wildlife within underpasses to ensure these interactions do not discourage wildlife from using them. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Summer Habitat Use of Female Mule Deer in Oregon
Authors: Eckrich Carolyn A. , Coe Priscilla K. , Clark Darren A. , Nielson Ryan M. , Lombardi John , Gregory Sara C. , Hedrick Mary JO , Johnson Bruce K. , Jackson DeWaine H.
Published: December 2019

Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus hemionus) populations have been declining throughout their range and loss or deterioration of habitat has been associated with observed trends. An understanding of the relative importance of landscape characteristics in affecting mule deer distribution will allow wildlife managers that alter habitat to make predictions regarding future use by mule deer, which is likely to influence mule deer population size and recruitment. We radio‐marked 376 adult female mule deer with global positioning system‐collars from 2006–2012 in south‐central Oregon, USA, to evaluate summer habitat use. We used multiple linear regression to develop a resource utilization function (RUF) model for mule deer to relate landscape characteristics to the height of a utilization distribution estimated with a Brownian bridge movement model. We validated the predictive capacity of the RUF model with locations from an independent dataset of 95 deer that summered within our study area. Our best model describing mule deer habitat use included 5 covariates: overstory canopy cover, slope, distance to forest edge, distance to intermittent or perennial streams, and distance to dirt roads. Predicted intensity of use peaked at roughly 40% canopy cover and decreased with increasing slope and distance from forest edge. Predicted use was greater closer to streams and decreased, albeit slightly, with increasing distance from dirt roads. Model validation revealed our model predicted summer habitat use by mule deer very well. Our results provide a basis for predicting effects of future land management actions on mule deer habitat use on summer range. Forest management prescriptions that maintain canopy cover around 40% and create forest edge may benefit mule deer in south‐central Oregon and other forested ecosystems, particularly if these prescriptions are implemented on areas with gentle slopes and access to streams. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
CO2 Laser Cordectomy Versus KTP Laser Tumor Ablation for Early Glottic Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lahav Yonatan , Cohen Oded , Shapira‐Galitz Yael , Halperin Doron , Shoffel‐Havakuk Hagit
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

CO2 laser cordectomy has been the workhorse of laser surgery for early glottic squamous cell carcinoma (GSCC) since the early 1970s. During the last decades, potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser surgery for early GSCC gained popularity, introducing the tumor ablation technique. Yet, there are no previous randomized controlled trials (RCT) that compare the oncologic and functional outcomes of KTP Laser ablation versus CO2 laser cordectomy for early GSCC. This study aims to compare by means of an RCT, CO2 laser cordectomy with KTP laser ablation for early GSCC, in terms of cure rates and vocal function.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A RCT conducted between 2013 and 2017. Patients with early GSCC were enrolled, and randomly assigned for either CO2 cordectomy or KTP‐ablation surgery with curative intent. All CO2 cordectomies and most KTP‐ablation procedures were performed under general anesthesia. Some KTP cases with residual disease were treated also under local anesthesia. Videostroboscopy measures, voice handicap index (VHI), GRBAS (a hoarseness scale for Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia and Strain) score, and acoustic analyses were performed pre‐operatively, 6 months and 3 years after surgery.

Results

Twenty‐four patients, 12 in each group, were enrolled. Nine in each group had T1a carcinoma, the remaining had either carcinoma in situ or T1b. The average number of procedures was 1.67( ± 0.89) and 1.33( ± 0.89) for the KTP and CO2 groups, respectively. Although the tumor depth was comparable in both groups, patients in the KTP‐ablation group underwent more superficial surgeries. Eleven (91.7%) procedures in the KTP group spared the vocal ligament, compared with 5 (41.7%) in the CO2 group, (P = 0.023). All patients were alive and disease‐free after four years. On post‐operative videostroboscopy, normal mucosal waves appeared in 5 (42%) of the KTP patients versus none (0%) of the CO2 (P = 0.02). The median post‐operative non‐vibrating portion was smaller in the KTP group (10%) compared with CO2 (50%), P = 0.043. Nevertheless, GRBAS and VHI scores improved comparably in both groups.

Conclusions

KTP ablation technique offers similar curative outcome as CO2 cordectomy but may allow for better preservation of vocal fold's architecture and function. Yet, the clinical significance of these findings is unclear, since the subjective measures improved comparably for these two treatment modalities. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Residual Lesions After Pharmacological and Dye‐Laser Treatment of Infantile Hemangiomas: Critical Review of 432 Cases
Authors: Chelleri Cristina , Monzani Nicola Adriano , Gelmetti Carlo , Milani Gregorio Paolo , Fossali Emilio Filippo , Galeone Carlotta , Cavalli Riccardo
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common benign tumors in infanthood. Although they are often self‐limiting, management of IHs is still controversial because residual lesions may persist in some cases. The aim of this study is to report our experience with patients affected with IH and investigate the frequency of residual lesions in treated versus untreated patients.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

This retrospective observational study enrolled patients with IHs evaluated over the past 10 years. Patients were managed with systemic or local pharmacotherapy, laser therapy, a combination of them, or with observation only.

Results

A total of 432 patients were included: 71% received one or more therapies for IHs; 75.2% of untreated patients had at least one residual lesion compared with 41.4% of treated patients (P < 0.001). Patients treated with laser therapy or topical timolol had the lowest rate of residual lesions.

Conclusions

This rather large case series suggests that IHs management with pharmacotherapy and especially laser therapy is associated with a lower number of residual lesions than observation only. Although propranolol can be very useful to avoid life‐threatening complications and severe tissue impairment, laser therapy and topical timolol are potential effective treatments to decrease the incidence of residual lesions, mostly associated with superficial IHs. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
PAMAM Dendrimer‐Based Nanodevices for Nuclear Medicine Applications
Authors: Xiao Tingting , Li Du , Shi Xiangyang , Shen Mingwu
Published: December 2019

Nuclear medicine, involving nuclear medicine imaging and radiotherapy (RT), has become a mainstay of theranostics in the field of nanomedicine and several examples have been successfully translated into clinical practice. The combination of radionuclides with dendrimers has long been investigated in nuclear imaging, such as positron emission tomography (PET) and single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), providing functional information for whole body quantitative analysis with high sensitivity due to the unique structural advantages of the dendrimer platform. Besides, radioisotopes with both therapeutic and imaging functionalities can also be combined with dendrimer platforms for theranostic applications. In this review, the recent advances in the development of radionuclide‐labeled poly(amidoamine) dendrimer‐based nanodevices for targeted PET, SPECT, SPECT/computed tomography, SPECT/magnetic resonance imaging of tumors, RT, as well as for SPECT‐imaging‐guided RT of cancer are summarized. Current restrictions hindering the clinical translation of dendrimer‐based nuclear nanodevices and future prospects are also discussed.
Effects of constant load on corrosion cracking of 304 ASS at 600°C in molten salts
Authors: Li Heng , Yang Xinyu , Yin Xuzhong , Tang Jianqun , Gong Jianming , Fuyang Chengming
Published: December 2019

The effects of constant load (CL) on corrosion cracking of 304 austenitic stainless steel (ASS) in molten salts (binary nitrate salts, 60 wt% NaNO3, and 40 wt% KNO3) were investigated. A pair of novel clamping fixture was designed to fix the tensile sample, making the gauge section immersed in molten salts. The CL tensile tests were applied with the initial stress of 212 MPa and the temperature of 600°C. Optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy were employed to characterize the deformation behavior and corrosion features. The results show that corrosion of 304 ASS in molten salts was aggravated by the continuous deformation due to the cracking of protective oxide scale. Grain boundaries were oxidized and weakened by the molten salt, leading to a crack propagating. Compared with the creep test result, a reduced rupture life of 304 ASS under constant loading in molten salts was observed.
Novel Sulfur‐Containing Cross‐Linking Agent for Si‐Based Preceramic Polymers
Authors: Taheri Poroshat , Bokka Apparao , Asgari Parham , Jeon Junha , Lang John C. , Campostrini Renzo , Sorarù Gian Domenico , Kroll Peter
Published: December 2019

Cross‐linking polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) with divinylthiophene (DVT) via hydrosilylation in highly dilute conditions and subsequent supercritical drying in CO2yield a polymeric aerogel containing aromatic sulfur integrally and uniformly distributed throughout the monolith. Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy indicates almost complete consumption of vinyl groups and SiH bonds in the product. Both FT‐IR and Raman spectroscopic analyses support loss of conjugation of vinyl groups with the retained double bonds of the thiophene ring. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicates a condensed colloidal structure with characteristic particulate diameters of about 165 nm. SEM coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy elemental mapping shows that sulfur is distributed homogeneously in the polymeric aerogel. Porosimetry of the mesoporous aerogel indicates the effective average pore diameters are about 12 nm. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) establishes greater thermal stability of the PMHS‐DVT product than either of the pure unreacted components. TGA coupled with mass spectrometric (TG‐MS) identification of the volatiles released during pyrolysis shows that sulfur is driven from the cross‐linked polymer as thiophene and its derivatives. Recorded mass spectra support the hypothesis that cross‐linking DVT bridges between PMHS chains in the polymeric aerogel, and that this results in a more thermally stable monolith.
Preparation of Magnetic Porous Microspheres and Their Ability to Remove Oils
Authors: Yu Ya‐Lan , Zhou Zi‐Han , Yu Wan‐Ting , Song Yu‐Zhen , Xie Min‐Qian
Published: December 2019

Magnetic, porous poly (tripropylene glycol diacrylate) (PTPGDA) microspheres are successfully prepared using a combination of microfluidic emulsification and free‐radical polymerization. The porous structure can be precisely controlled by controlling the amount of the oil‐phase emulsifier polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR). The effects of PGPR content and pH on the contact angle of the microspheres is investigated. The contact angle of the microspheres increases with the raise of PGPR content, and the hydrophobicity of the microspheres remains stable at different pHs. The microstructure, magnetic properties, and oil adsorption abilities of the microspheres are also studied. The as‐prepared microspheres perform adsorption well, the higher the PGPR content, the more pore structures and larger contact angle occurres on the microspheres, which improves the adsorption capacity. In addition, the adsorption capacity of the microspheres for diesel can reach 3.38 g·g−1 when the mass fraction of PGPR in oil phase is 50% w/v. After adsorbing oil, the microspheres can be separated, recovered, and reused by applying an external magnetic field. The magnetic microspheres have good oil adsorption abilities and recyclability, which shows their potential for use in oil removal.
How Hydrogen Bond Interactions Affect the Flame Retardancy and Anti‐Dripping Performances of PET
Authors: Ni Yan‐Peng , Wu Wan‐Shou , Chen Lin , Zhao Xi , Qin Zi‐Hao , Wang Xiu‐Li , Wang Yu‐Zhong
Published: December 2019

To systematically study how the H‐bonding interaction affect the flame retardancy and anti‐dripping behavior of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), two series of PET‐based copolyesters are prepared by introducing two benzimidazole monomers with similar structure. One (2‐(4‐methoxycarbonyl‐phenyl)‐1H‐benzimidazole‐5‐carboxylic acid methyl ester, PBM) contains H‐bonding donor, the other (2‐(4‐methoxycarbonyl‐phenyl)‐1‐methylbenzimidazole‐5‐carboxylic acid methyl ester, PNM) weeds out the H‐bonding donor by replacing NH group with NCH3. The dynamic rheological behavior, fire resistance and fire‐retardant mechanism of the PET‐co‐PBMs and PET‐co‐PNMs are contrastively investigated. PET‐co‐PNMs have flow behaviors similar to neat PET. While, for PET‐co‐PBMs, the movements of the molecular chains are restricted due to the H‐bonding interaction, leading to higher melt viscosity, which is conducive to the anti‐dripping property. It can be proved that benzimidazole groups promote the carbonization of substrates to form more stable charred layers in combustion, showing an obvious barrier action in condensed phase. Unfortunately, the enhancement of carbonization alone is not enough to inhibit the dripping behavior satisfactorily, and PET‐co‐PNMs fail to pass UL‐94 V‐0 rating. While, PET‐co‐PBMs exhibit better self‐extinguishing and anti‐dripping performances benefiting from strong H‐bonding interactions. The revealed effects of H‐bonding interactions on the fire resistance and anti‐dripping behavior of polymers will guide further design of flame retardants.
Brand engagement in self‐concept and consumer engagement in social media: The role of the source
Authors: Giakoumaki Christina , Krepapa Areti
Published: December 2019

This three‐group between‐subjects experimental research investigates the extent to which consumer engagement with a social media branded post is directly affected by individuals’ tendency to incorporate brands as part of their self‐concept (BESC) and whether this relationship is moderated by individuals’ exposure to three different post source types. Participants were exposed to one of three Instagram social media posts of a luxury brand, where the only manipulated factor was the type of source. Findings show that there is a positive relationship between BESC and post engagement. The study also shows that content source plays a moderating role in the relationship between BESC and post engagement, such that individuals with high BESC will engage significantly more with content posted by other users, compared with branded sources (brand, influencer).
Multi‐institutional experience of genetic diagnosis in Ecuador: National registry of chromosome alterations and polymorphisms
Authors: Paz‐y‐Miño César , Yumiceba Verónica , Moreta Germania , Paredes Rosario , Ruiz Mónica , Ocampo Ligia , Llamos Paneque Arianne , Ochoa Pérez Catalina , Ruiz‐Cabezas Juan Carlos , Álvarez Vidal Jenny , Jiménez Torres Idarmis , Vargas‐Vera Ramón , Cruz Fernando , Guapi N Víctor Hugo , Montalván Martha , Meneses Álvarez Sara , Garzón Castro Maribel , Lamar Segura Elizabeth , Recalde Báez María Augusta , Naranjo María Elena , Tambaco Jijón Nina , Sinche María , Licuy Pedro , Burgos Ramiro , Porras‐Borja Fabián , Echeverría‐Garcés Gabriela , Pérez‐Villa Andy , Armendáriz‐Castillo Isaac , García‐Cárdenas Jennyfer M. , Guerrero Santiago , Guevara‐Ramírez Patricia , López‐Cortés Andrés , Zambrano Ana Karina , Leone Paola E.
Published: December 2019

Background

Detection of chromosomal abnormalities is crucial in various medical areas; to diagnose birth defects, genetic disorders, and infertility, among other complex phenotypes, in individuals across a wide range of ages. Hence, the present study wants to contribute to the knowledge of type and frequency of chromosomal alterations and polymorphisms in Ecuador.

Methods

Cytogenetic registers from different Ecuadorian provinces have been merged and analyzed to construct an open‐access national registry of chromosome alterations and polymorphisms.

Results

Of 28,806 karyotypes analyzed, 6,008 (20.9%) exhibited alterations. Down syndrome was the most frequent autosome alteration (88.28%), followed by Turner syndrome (60.50%), a gonosome aneuploidy. A recurrent high percentage of Down syndrome mosaicism (7.45%) reported here, as well as by previous Ecuadorian preliminary registries, could be associated with geographic location and admixed ancestral composition. Translocations (2.46%) and polymorphisms (7.84%) were not as numerous as autosomopathies (64.33%) and gonosomopathies (25.37%). Complementary to conventional cytogenetics tests, molecular tools have allowed identification of submicroscopic alterations regions or candidate genes which can be possibly implicated in patients' symptoms and phenotypes.

Conclusion

The Ecuadorian National Registry of Chromosome Alterations and Polymorphisms provides a baseline to better understand chromosomal abnormalities in Ecuador and therefore their clinical management and awareness. This data will guide public policy makers to promote and financially support cytogenetic and genetic testing.
Mixed fractional Sobolev spaces and elliptic PDEs with singular integral boundary data
Authors: Merker Jochen
Published: December 2019

In this article, we show how to use mixed fractional Sobolev spaces to prove existence of very weak solutions to singular semilinear elliptic PDEs subject to singular integral Neumann boundary conditions. Particularly, we obtain solutions with infinite normal derivatives on the boundary, ie, solutions with large derivatives.
Anatomically correct assessment of the orientation of the cardiomyocytes using diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Agger Peter , Omann Camilla , Laustsen Christoffer , Stephenson Robert S. , Anderson Robert H.
Published: December 2019

Diffusion tensor imaging has been used for assessing the orientation of cardiac myocytes for decades. Striking methodological differences exist between studies when quantifying these orientations. This limits the comparability between studies, and impedes collaboration and the drawing of appropriate physiological conclusions. We have sought to elucidate these differences, permitting us to propose a standardised “tool set” that might better establish consensus in future studies.

We fixed hearts from seven 25 kg pigs in formalin, and scanned them using diffusion tensor imaging. Using various angle definitions as found in literature, we assessed the orientations of cardiomyocytes, comparing them in terms of helical and intrusion angles, along with the orientation of their aggregations. The difference between assessment of the helical angle with and without relation to the epicardial curvature was 25.2° (SD: 7.9) at the base, 5.8° (1.9) at the equatorial level, and 28.0° (7.0) at the apex, ANOVA P = 0.001. In comparable fashion, the intrusion angle differed by 25.9° (12.9), 7.6° (0.98) and 17.5° (4.7), P = 0.01, and the angle of the aggregates (E3‐angle) differed by 25.0° (13.5) at the base, 9.4° (1.7) at the equator, and 23.1° (6.2) apically, P = 0.003. When assessing 14 definitions used in literature to calculate the orientation of aggregates, only 4 rendered identical results. The findings show that any attempt to use projection of eigenvectors introduces considerable bias. The epicardial curvature of the ventricular cone needs to be taken into account when seeking to provide accurate quantification of the orientation of the aggregated cardiomyocytes, especially in the apical and basal regions. This means that projection of eigenvectors should be avoided prior to quantifying myocyte orientation, especially when assessing radial orientation. Based on our results, we suggest appropriate methods for valid assessment of myocyte orientation using diffusion tensor imaging.
Dynamic Phosphoproteome Profiling of Zebrafish Embryonic Fibroblasts during Cold Acclimation
Authors: Yan Junjun , Long Yong , Zhou Tong , Ren Jing , Li Qing , Song Guili , Cui Zongbin
Published: December 2019

Temperature affects almost all aspects of the fish life. To cope with low temperature, fish have evolved the ability of cold acclimation for survival. However, intracellular signaling events underlying cold acclimation in fish remain largely unknown. Here, the formation of cold acclimation in zebrafish embryonic fibroblasts (ZF4) is monitored and the phosphorylation events during the process are investigated through a large‐scale quantitative phosphoproteomic approach. In total, 11 474 phosphorylation sites are identified on 4066 proteins and quantified 5772 phosphosites on 2519 proteins. Serine, threonine, and tyrosine (Ser/Thr/Tyr) phosphorylation accounted for 85.5%, 13.3%, and 1.2% of total phosphosites, respectively. Among all phosphosites, 702 phosphosites on 510 proteins show differential regulation during cold acclimation of ZF4 cells. These phosphosites are divided into six clusters according to their dynamic changes during cold exposure. Kinase–substrate prediction reveals that mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) among the kinase groups is predominantly responsible for phosphorylation of these phosphosites. The differentially regulated phosphoproteins are functionally associated with various cellular processes such as regulation of actin cytoskeleton and MAPK signaling pathway. These data enrich the database of protein phosphorylation sites in zebrafish and provide key clues for the elucidation of intracellular signaling networks during cold acclimation of fish.
Management of genital warts: a guide for GPs
Authors: Draeger Eleanor
Published: December 2019

Genital warts are primarily a cosmetic problem; however, they can cause psychological distress and take some time to resolve. This article discusses the diagnosis of genital warts, the treatment options available and the GP's role in management.
On the Importance of the Work Function and Electron Carrier Density of Oxide Electrodes for the Functional Properties of Ferroelectric Capacitors
Authors: Wang Jun , Nguyen Minh Duc , Gauquelin Nicolas , Verbeeck Johan , Do Minh Thanh , Koster Gertjan , Rijnders Guus , Houwman Evert
Published: December 2019

It is important to understand the effect of the interfaces between the oxide electrode layers and the ferroelectric layer on the polarization response for optimizing the device performance of all‐oxide ferroelectric devices. Herein, the effects of the oxide La0.07Ba0.93SnO3 (LBSO) as an electrode material in an PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 (PZT) ferroelectric capacitor are compared with those of the more commonly used SrRuO3 (SRO) electrode. SRO (top)/PZT/SRO (bottom), SRO/PZT/LBSO, and SRO/PZT/2 nm SRO/LBSO devices are fabricated. Only marginal differences in crystalline properties, determined by X‐ray diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy, are found. High‐quality polarization loops are obtained, but with a much larger coercive field for the SRO/PZT/LBSO device. In contrast to the SRO/PZT/SRO device, the polarization decreases strongly with increasing field cycling. This fatigue problem can be remedied by inserting a 2 nm SRO layer between PZT and LBSO. It is argued that strongly increased charge injection into the PZT occurs at the bottom interface, because of the low PZT/LBSO interfacial barrier and the much lower carrier density in LBSO, as compared with that in SRO, causing a low dielectric constant, depleted layer in LBSO. The charge injection creates a trapped space charge in the PZT, causing the difference in fatigue behavior.
The effect of Trigonella foenum‐graecum extract on prostate‐specific antigen, and prostate function in otherwise healthy men with benign prostate hyperplasia
Authors: Rao Amanda , Grant Ross
Published: December 2019

The aim of this trial was to evaluate the effect of a standardised Trigonella foenum‐graecum (Fenugreek) extract on the symptoms of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) using a double‐blind randomised placebo controlled design. The study recruited 100 healthy males aged between 45 and 80 years with symptoms of BPH who recorded a minimum score of eight on the International Prostate Symptom Score. Participants were randomised to an oral dose of either 600mg Trigonella foenum‐graceum per day or placebo for 12 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the International Prostate Symptom Score total and subdomain scores. The secondary outcomes were serum levels of the hormones (testosterone, free testosterone, and sex hormone binding globulin) prostate‐specific antigen, and safety markers. The results indicated that Trigonella foenum‐graceum did not have an effect on improving the symptoms of BPH. Hormone levels, safety markers, and prostate‐specific antigen remained unchanged and within normal limits after 12 weeks, which adds to the safety profile of this specialised extract.
The effects of wheat germ supplementation on metabolic profile in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Mohammadi Hamed , Karimifar Mozhgan , Heidari Zahra , Zare Maryam , Amani Reza
Published: December 2019

The aim of the present trial was to examine the effects of wheat germ (WG) consumption on metabolic control and oxidative stress status of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. Eighty participants with T2DM were randomly allocated to receive 20‐g WG (n = 40) or placebo (n = 40) in a randomized double‐blind clinical trial for 12 weeks. Serum lipid profiles, glycaemic indices, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdhyde (MDA) were assessed. A total of 75 subjects completed the trial. Compared with the placebo, WG consumption led to significant reduction in total cholesterol (TC) concentrations (p = .04). There was a trend regarding TC to high density lipoprotein ratio (p = .08) following 12 weeks WG consumption, although they were not statistically significant after correcting for multiple testing. In addition, within‐group comparison revealed a significant rise in total antioxidant capacity concentration (p = .001) in WG group. We observed no significant effects of WG intake on glycaemic status, blood pressure, MDA, triglyceride, and low density lipoprotein levels. WG consumption for 12 weeks could decrease serum TC levels and had no significant effects on other metabolic variables and MDA in patients with T2DM. Though observed health benefit effects were small, it might lead to a major impact on wider public health.
Forced advection problems for testing transport schemes
Authors: Zerroukat Mohamed , Allen Thomas
Published: December 2019

In this paper, a set of forced advection problems are proposed for testing transport schemes for atmospheric models. Unlike classical passive tracer tests, these problems contain nonlinear sources, which interact with the advected quantity and therefore are more sensitive to advection errors than passive tracer tests. These tests also provide a simple framework to mimic how transport is used within real models, where all tracers fields have physical sources. Two tests are proposed: (a) a moisture problem with phase‐change scheme which can be considered as a simplified microphysics model, and (b) an atmospheric chemical reactions test which models the main drivers of the formation and destruction of ozone in the atmosphere. These tests also provides a clean and simple framework to test issues such as dynamics–physics coupling, time‐step sensitivity and overall accuracy with simple and tractable tests.
On the sensitivity of deep‐convection initiation to horizontal grid resolution
Authors: Tang S. L. , Kirshbaum D. J.
Published: December 2019

Idealized numerical simulations are used to study the sensitivity of deep‐convection initiation to horizontal grid spacing (). In a conditionally unstable but strongly inhibited environment, a localized surface heating function gives rise to low‐level convergence and a vigorous subcloud updraught that breaches the level of free convection (LFC). The vertical cloud development is sensitive to : the clouds reach 8–9 km for  m (CTRL) and  m (DX500) but only 6–7 km for  m (DX125). This trend is not associated with major differences in midlevel cloud vigour (e.g., buoyancy and vertical velocity), but can be explained on the basis of cloud‐core mass flux (). The profile is regulated by its value at the LFC, largely set by subcloud processes, and its core‐layer gradient, set by entrainment and detrainment. The former is the largest in CTRL and weakens as the grid is coarsened (DX500) or refined (DX125), both due to a widening and weakening of the subcloud updraught. Whereas in DX500 this widening stems from a failure to adequately resolve the 1‐km‐wide updraught on the model grid, in DX125 it results from stronger total (subgrid plus resolved) turbulent mixing, which increases monotonically as is decreased. The wider and more diffuse updraughts in DX125 and DX500 are also more hydrostatic and generate weaker buoyancy‐driven accelerations. Within the cloud layer, the entrainment is very similar in the three cases, as is the detrainment for the higher‐resolution cases (DX125 and CTRL). However, the midlevel detrainment is relatively weak in DX500, which facilitates slightly deeper ascent than in CTRL. By contrast, the small core‐base and strong midlevel detrainment yields the shallowest clouds in DX125.
Solvation effect on the vertical ionization energy of adenine‐thymine base pair: From microhydration to bulk
Authors: Mukherjee Madhubani , Haldar Soumi , Dutta Achintya K.
Published: December 2019

In the present work, we investigate the effect of aqueous environment on the vertical ionization potential (VIP) of adenine‐thymine (AT) base pair using a multilayer equation of the motion‐coupled cluster method. The microsolvation can cause both blue‐shift and red‐shit of the IP values. However, the bulk water environment always results in the red‐shift of the vertical ionization potential. Our study shows that the correct treatment of the short‐range interaction plays an essential role in determining the magnitude of the red‐shift. We have developed a biased sampling scheme based on Koopmans' energy, which can significantly speed up the convergence with respect to the number of solvent‐solute configurations.
Electronic, optical, and charge transfer properties of porphyrin and metallated porphyrins in different media
Authors: Üngördü Ayhan
Published: December 2019

Porphyrin and M‐Porphyrin (M = Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+) complexes were designed to examine their organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) properties. All calculations were performed in different media, which are gas, benzene, DMSO, and water phases. The calculations of both porphyrin and its metal complexes as a monomer form were performed at B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level by using the Gaussian 16 and GaussView 6 package programs. On the other hand, emission calculations for the monomer form and dimer form computations of the studied compounds were carried out at PBE0/TZP and B3LYP/TZP levels, respectively, by using Amsterdam density functional (ADF) 2019 package program. The OLED tensors of the mentioned molecules, which are emission energies, reorganization energies (λe and λh), the ionization potentials and the electron affinities (adiabatic and vertical), the effective transfer integrals (Ve and Vh), and the charge transfer rates (We and Wh), were calculated to evaluate the OLED behaviors and determine the best OLED structure.
Coherent Conversion Between Microwave and Optical Photons—An Overview of Physical Implementations
Authors: Lambert Nicholas J. , Rueda Alfredo , Sedlmeir Florian , Schwefel Harald G. L.
Published: December 2019

Quantum information technology based on solid state qubits has created much interest in converting quantum states from the microwave to the optical domain. Optical photons, unlike microwave photons, can be transmitted by fiber, making them suitable for long distance quantum communication. Moreover, the optical domain offers access to a large set of very well‐developed quantum optical tools, such as highly efficient single‐photon detectors and long‐lived quantum memories. For a high fidelity microwave to optical transducer, efficient conversion at single photon level and low added noise is needed. Currently, the most promising approaches to build such systems are based on second‐order nonlinear phenomena such as optomechanical and electro‐optic interactions. Alternative approaches, although not yet as efficient, include magneto‐optical coupling and schemes based on isolated quantum systems like atoms, ions, or quantum dots. Herein, the necessary theoretical foundations for the most important microwave‐to‐optical conversion experiments are provided, their implementations are described, and the current limitations and future prospects are discussed.
Structural characterization of bioactive compounds in Cotula cinerea extracts by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array and high‐resolution time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry detectors
Authors: Guaouguaou Fatima‐Ezzahrae , Ahl Bebaha Mohamed Alien , Yadlapalli Sudhakar , Taghzouti Khalid , Es‐Safi Nour Eddine
Published: December 2019

Rationale

Cotula cinerea of the Asteraceae family is a traditional Moroccan plant with various biological activities such as analgesic, cytotoxic and antioxidant effects which are often related to the presence of secondary metabolites. The present work aims to screen and identify the main phytochemicals compounds of Cotula cinerea extracts.

Methods

A method was developed that coupled a rapid and simple ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography system with both photodiode array and high‐resolution time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry detectors (UHPLC‐PDA/TOF‐HRMS) for the identification of the main secondary metabolites of three investigated extracts (hexane, AcOEt and n‐BuOH).

Results

A total of 30 phytocomponents pertaining to phenolic compounds and terpenoids have been detected, identified and quantified. Among these were previously reported free and conjugated coumaric and caffeic acids along with free and conjugated flavones and flavonols with kaempferol, quercetin, luteolin and apigenin aglycones. In addition, sulfated flavonoids were identified in the investigated extracts and are reported in this work for the first time in Cotula cinerea. The obtained results have been discussed in relation to the biological activities of the corresponding extracts.

Conclusions

This study proposed a practical strategy for rapidly screening and identifying secondary metabolites of Cotula cinerea and provided new information on the phytochemicals of this Saharan plant. This work has therefore provided useful results for further pharmacological studies and the design of new drugs based on this species and will facilitate the utilization of Cotula cinerea in the clinic and its safety evaluation. It is also hoped that the information presented here might stimulate further studies that will possibly lead to development of therapeutic agents from this plant.
Decentralized event‐triggered control of large‐scale nonlinear systems
Authors: Liu Tengfei , Jiang Zhong‐Ping , Zhang Pengpeng
Published: December 2019

This paper studies the decentralized event‐triggered control of large‐scale nonlinear systems. We consider a class of decentralized control systems that are transformable into an interconnection of input‐to‐state stable subsystems with the sampling errors as the inputs. The sampling events for each subsystem are triggered by a threshold signal, and the threshold signals for the subsystems are independent with each other for the decentralized implementation. By appropriately designing the event‐triggering mechanisms, it is shown that infinitely fast sampling can be avoided for each subsystem and asymptotic regulation is achievable for the large‐scale system. The proposed design is based on the ISS small‐gain arguments, and is validated by a benchmark example of controlling two coupled inverted pendulums.