bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Indus River Basin: Future climate and water budget
Authors: Dimri Ashok P. , Kumar Dhirendra , Chopra Simran , Choudhary Anubhav
Published: August 2018

Indus River Basin (IRB) in the western Himalayas is very important for the sustainability of livelihood, food and water security of its inhabitants. In the present work, changing climate and its impact on water budget of IRB is discussed. For this, simulation from a regional climate model (REMO) is studied for present (1970–2005) and future (till 2099) climate under various representative concentration pathways (RCPs). It is distinctly seen that, there is a likely increased (decreased) precipitation over upper (lower) IRB under both the RCPs. Moreover, a heterogeneous warming pattern is projected over the region with season‐specific response of warming towards increasing greenhouse gases (GHGs). Higher (lower) evapotranspiration over the lower (central) IRB raise serious concerns about water issues. The changes in climatic parameters will have huge impact on the associated water budget. Linkages of water budget with the corresponding precipitation, temperature, evapotranspiration and runoff provide possible mechanisms for depleting (enhancing) water storage over the lower (upper) IRB during DJF (JJAS). This will have impact on agriculture, crop and water security of the region and thus underlines the need for adaptation policies at governance level.
The effects of different land uses on soil hydraulic properties in the Loess Plateau, Northern China
Authors: Kalhoro Shahmir Ali , Xu Xuexuan , Ding Kang , Chen Wenyuan , Shar Abdul Ghaffar , Rashid Muhammad
Published: August 2018

Some agriculture practices are unsuitable in the northern hilly region of the Chinese Loess Plateau and have resulted in the degradation of the native vegetation ecosystems and unfavorable soil hydraulic properties, which cause serious soil losses. The objective of this study was to ascertain the influence of land use changes on soil infiltration rate and other related soil properties in this region. A total of 90 infiltration tests were run on six different land uses (natural grassland, apple orchard, abandoned apple orchard, farmland wheat, farmland maize, and scrub grassland). For studying the infiltration rate, a triplicate of infiltration tests had been taken using a disc permeameter with different pressure heads. Infiltration rate was high in abandoned apple orchard (10 mm min−1) whereas very low in apple orchard (0.6 mm min−1). The statistical analysis showed that the main soil properties were affected by changes of land use types or vegetation cover. Compared with that in the natural grassland and abandoned apple orchard sites, a notable reduction of soil root biomass, infiltration, and bulk density in apple orchard was recorded. The root image analysis showed that the natural grassland and abandoned apple orchard have strong root systems, that is, root length density 6.97 ± 0.344 cm cm−3, root surface area 1.56 ± 0.24 cm2 cm−3, and average root diameter 0.814 ± 0.24 mm, in comparison with other sites. The limited root length density, root surface area, and average diameter were recorded in apple orchard 0.51 ± 0.03 cm cm−3, 0.49 ± 0.12 cm2 cm−3, and 1.88 ± 0.24 mm. Conclusively, our study suggests that converting farmland apple orchard into grassland or scrubland may change soil hydraulic properties, which may help to reduce soil losses in the Loess Plateau.
Seasonal similarity in rates of protistan herbivory in fjords along the Western Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Morison F. , Menden‐Deuer S.
Published: August 2018

We quantified phytoplankton growth and protistan grazing rates during late austral autumn 2013 and late austral spring 2014, in several glacio‐marine fjords and connecting channels along the Western Antarctic Peninsula (WAP). During austral autumn, low and declining chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentrations (≤ 0.4 μg L−1) were almost entirely composed of pico/nanophytoplankton, whereas during austral spring, high but patchy Chl a concentrations in the fjords (up to 18.5 μg L−1) reflected a diatom bloom. These contrasting dynamics were associated with high seasonal differences in irradiance, but not temperature, and were consistent with the balance resulting from lower phytoplankton growth rates in autumn (−0.01 d−1 to 0.19 d−1) than in spring (0.06–0.93 d−1) but similar magnitudes of herbivorous grazing in both seasons. Grazing was either absent or low (0.11–0.26 d−1) and restricted to the picophytoplankton and nanophytoplankton. In the productive fjords lining the WAP, a fraction of primary production was channelled through a persistent and across‐seasons equally active microbial food web, while during spring an increasing fraction of organic carbon shifted from trophic transfer and recycling to an export pathway.
Onset of Donor Warm Ischemia Time in Donation After Circulatory Death Liver Transplantation: Hypotension or Hypoxia?
Authors: Kalisvaart Marit , de Haan Jubi E. , Polak Wojciech G. , N. M. IJzermans Jan , Gommers Diederik , Metselaar Herold J. , de Jonge Jeroen
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of hypoxia and hypotension during the agonal phase of donor warm ischemia time (DWIT) on hepatic ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) and complications in donation after circulatory death (DCD) liver transplantation. A retrospective single‐center study of 93 DCD liver transplants (Maastricht type III) was performed. DWIT was divided into 2 periods: the agonal phase (from withdrawal of treatment [WoT] until circulatory arrest) and the asystolic phase (circulatory arrest until cold perfusion). A drop to <80% in peripheral oxygenation (SpO2) was considered as hypoxia in the agonal phase (SpO2‐agonal) and a drop to <50 mm Hg as hypotension in the agonal phase (SBP‐agonal). Peak postoperative aspartate transaminase level >3000 U/L was considered as severe hepatic IRI. SpO2 dropped within 2 minutes after WoT <80%, whereas the systolic blood pressure dropped to <50 mm Hg after 9 minutes, resulting in a longer SpO2‐agonal (13 minutes) than SBP‐agonal (6 minutes). In multiple logistic regression analysis, only duration of SpO2‐agonal was associated with severe hepatic IRI (P = 0.006) and not SBP‐agonal (P = 0.32). Also, recipients with long SpO2‐agonal (>13 minutes) had more complications with a higher Comprehensive Complication Index during hospital admission (43.0 versus 32.0; P = 0.002) and 90‐day graft loss (26% versus 6%; P = 0.01), compared with recipients with a short SpO2‐agonal (≤13 minutes). Furthermore, Cox proportional hazard modeling identified a long SpO2‐agonal as a risk factor for longterm graft loss (hazard ratio, 3.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.15‐9.48; P = 0.03). In conclusion, the onset of hypoxia during the agonal phase is related to the severity of hepatic IRI and postoperative complications. Therefore, SpO2 <80% should be considered as the start of functional DWIT in DCD liver transplantation.
Stimuli‐Responsive Supramolecular Gels Constructed by Hierarchical Self‐Assembly Based on Metal‐Ligand Coordination and Host–Guest Recognition
Authors: Lee Yin‐Hsuan , He Lipeng , Chan Yi‐Tsu
Published: August 2018

Metal‐ligand coordination and host–guest recognition are introduced into the hybrid system in order to prepare supramolecular gels, which can be responsive to multiple external stimuli such as metal ions, competitive guest/host molecules, and oxidants. To this end, the triangular terpyridine‐based metallocycles functionalized with 1‐adamantyl and ferrocenyl groups are constructed through self‐assembly, and further used as supramolecular cross‐linkers for gelation of β‐CD‐containing copolymers. Their gelation and stimuli‐response tests are discussed, and an application of the metallotriangles for serving as supramolecular glue is demonstrated through a series of adhesion experiments. This approach enables facile access to construction of multifunctional metallosupramolecules as well as functional hybrid materials.
Hereditary cancer screening: Case reports and review of literature on ten Ashkenazi Jewish founder mutations
Authors: Cox Devin M. , Nelson Katherine L. , Clytone Meera , Collins Debra L.
Published: August 2018

Background

Historically, three founder mutations in the BRCA1/2 (OMIM 113705; OMIM 600185) genes have been the focus of cancer risks within the Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) population. However, there are several additional mutations associated with increased susceptibility to cancer in individuals of AJ ancestry.

Methods

We report three patients who exemplify the need to keep these additional founder mutations in mind when pursuing hereditary cancer genetic testing of individuals in this population. All gene sequences in this paper were aligned to reference sequences based on human genome build GRCh37/UCSC hg19.

Results

review of the literature discusses that the combined risk is 12.36%–20.83% forhaving 1 of the 10 hereditary cancer AJ founder mutations in the BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2 (OMIM 604373), APC (OMIM 611731), MSH2 (OMIM 609309), MSH6 (OMIM 600678), and GREM1 (OMIM 603054) genes for individuals of AJ ancestry.

Conclusion

We recommend testing for all 10 of these AJ founder cancer susceptibility mutations for individuals within this population as standard screening in order to ensure appropriate cancer risk management and cascade testing.
NCTN clinical trial standardization for radiotherapy through IROC and CIRO
Authors: Zou Wei , Geng Huaizhi , Teo Boon‐keng K. , Finlay Jarod , Xiao Ying
Published: August 2018

Evidence‐based practice is the cornerstone of modern medicine. Randomized clinical trials across multiple institutions are the gold standard for modern evidence collection. National Cancer Trials Network (NCTN) instruments the clinical trials through the new infrastructure for improvements in cancer treatment. Radiation therapy is an integral component of cancer treatment and is involved in many of the NCTN clinical trials. Radiotherapy is experiencing exciting developments in new treatment modalities and multi‐modality image guidance. One of NCTN network groups NRG Oncology brings together the research areas of the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP), the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG), and the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG). The Imaging and Radiation Oncology Core (IROC) and Center for Innovation in Radiation Oncology(CIRO) of NRG Oncology complement each other's functions in development and implementation of the new radiotherapy and imaging technologies in clinical trials with standardization and other strategies for quality. The standardization process is the essential step to make the data collected for clinical trials of high quality, interoperable, and reusable.
Patient‐based 4D digital breast phantom for perfusion contrast‐enhanced breast CT imaging
Authors: Caballo Marco , Mann Ritse , Sechopoulos Ioannis
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop a realistic patient‐based 4D digital breast phantom including time‐varying contrast enhancement for simulation of dedicated breast CT perfusion imaging.

Methods

A 3D static phantom is first created by segmenting a breast CT image from a healthy patient into skin, fibroglandular tissue, adipose tissue, and vasculature. For the creation of abnormal cases, a breast lesion model was developed and can be added to the phantom. After defining the necessary perfusion parameters for each tissue (e.g., arterial input function for vasculature, blood volume and blood flow for the other normal tissues) based on contrast‐enhanced dynamic breast MRI data, the corresponding time‐enhancement curves are computed for each voxel in the phantom, according to tissue type. These curves are calculated by convolution between the arterial input function and a shifted exponential function. This exponential depends on the perfusion parameters associated with each tissue voxel, and, to incorporate normal biological variability, a uniform random distribution is used to vary the perfusion parameters on a voxel‐basis. Finally, a 4D array is produced by sampling the continuous time‐enhancement curves at the desired sampling rate. Beside modeling different enhancement dynamics according to the given input perfusion parameters, the phantom also includes the possibility to realistically simulate different spatial enhancement patterns for the breast parenchyma, taking into account the arterial sources supplying the breast. Finally, different patterns of contrast medium uptake can also be simulated for the tumor models (homogeneous and rim enhancement).

Results

As an example, a typical 4D phantom has dimensions of 426 × 421 × 260 × 559 (x, y, z, t), with a voxel size of 273 μm and a sampling time of 1 s. The characteristics of the tumor model can be modified at will to evaluate perfusion in different types of breast lesions. Results show the expected enhancement of tissues, consistent with the given input parameters. Moreover, the tumor models evaluated in this work show different enhancement dynamics according to the tumor type (defined by different input perfusion parameters), and also present a higher enhancement compared to the other healthy tissues, as expected.

Conclusions

The proposed digital phantom can model the breast tissue perfusion during 4D breast CT image acquisition, displaying the different enhancement dynamics that could be found in a real patient breast. This phantom can be used during the development of dynamic contrast‐enhanced dedicated breast CT imaging, for optimization of image acquisition, image reconstruction, and image analysis. This modality could provide functional information of the breast, resulting in detection, diagnosis, and treatment improvements of breast cancer with breast CT.
Real‐Time Detection of Atmosphere Composition in Three‐Component Gas‐Phase Copolymerization of Olefins
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Yang Yilin , Huang Kai , Hu JiJiang , Jie Suyun , Li Bo‐Geng
Published: August 2018

The uniformity of copolymer composition has a great influence on its properties; however, it is very difficult to control. Especially in the laboratory research of the multi‐component gas‐phase copolymerization of olefins, the polymerization is usually conducted in a batch reactor, and the composition of the resulting copolymers is often distributed very widely. The samples of such copolymers are in fact not representative. Detection and control of the atmospheric composition in the batch reactor during olefin gas‐phase copolymerization is of great significance for the control of the uniformity of copolymer composition. In this work, a method based on three flow meters in series has been developed for real‐time detection of the atmospheric composition in olefin gas‐phase copolymerization with a delay time of less than 3 s. The method is applicable to copolymerization of up to a ternary system, including the binary copolymerization of olefins with hydrogen modulation of molecular weight or the ternary copolymerization of olefins. The consumption rate of each monomer is also online measured.
Silsesquioxane‐Supported Chromium Catalyst for Insight into Phillips‐Type Ethylene Polymerization
Authors: Zeng Yanning , Liu Shuxin , Terano Minoru
Published: August 2018

To investigate the Phillips catalyst for ethylene polymerization, a family of silsesquioxane‐supported chromium catalysts with a bipodal structure have been synthesized from trivalent or hexavalent chromium precursor and fully characterized by 1H/13C/29Si NMR, FT‐IR, and UV–vis spectroscopies. Upon activation with tri‐n‐octylaluminum or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) modified TIBA following the “TIBA‐BHT”, all the silsesquioxane‐supported chromium catalysts display moderate activities (50–523 g‐PE•g‐cat−1·h−1) for ethylene polymerization, producing polyethylene (PE) with high methyl branching level (0.1–1.3/1000C) and a clear bimodal molecular weight distribution (MWD). Catalysts with hexavalent chromium precursor exhibit higher activities than trivalent ones. The type of activator and coordination environments of the active site play a key role in the MWD of obtained PE.
Short segment sensory nerve stimulation in suspected ulnar neuropathy at the elbow: A pilot study
Authors: Vazquez do Campo Rocio , Dimberg Elliot , Rubin Devon
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Routine ulnar nerve conduction studies may be normal in very mild ulnar neuropathies at the elbow (UNE). Short segment ulnar sensory stimulation across the elbow may detect mild abnormalities in these cases. Methods: Short segment ulnar sensory nerve stimulation was performed in 20 controls and 15 patients with clinically suspected mild UNE. Greatest peak latency shift and amplitude drop between 2 adjacent stimulation sites were calculated. Results: The upper limit of normal for peak latency shift and amplitude reduction between sites was 0.7 ms and 15%, respectively. Abnormal latency shift was detected in 12 of 15 patients and focal sensory conduction block in 6 of 15 patients. In 5 of 7 patients in whom all other studies were normal, sensory inching was abnormal. Discussion: Ulnar sensory short segment stimulation may provide diagnostic confirmation and localization of the site of nerve compression in mild UNE, and may improve UNE detection when all other studies are normal. Muscle Nerve 59:125–129, 2019
Continuing barriers to care of Wilms tumor in a low‐income country
Authors: Ekenze Sebastian O. , Nwangwu Emmanuel I. , Ezomike Uchechukwu O. , Orji Emmanuel I. , Okafor Okechukwu O.
Published: August 2018

Background/objective

This study evaluates the outcome of Wilms tumor (WT) following introduction of multidisciplinary team management and patient treatment stratification by tumor histology in two referral centers in southeastern Nigeria.

Methods

We analyzed histologically confirmed WT cases managed from January 2008 to June 2017.

Results

There were 45 patients, peak age incidence of 2 to 5 years who presented after mean symptom duration of 4.9 months (range, 1–12 months), with mean tumor weight of 1040 g (range, 350–4200 g). Overall, 14 (31.1%) had unfavorable histology of WT. A total of 22 (48.9%) patients received preoperative chemotherapy, 43 (95.6%) received postoperative chemotherapy based on stage of disease and histopathology, but none received adequate radiotherapy. Of these, 19 (44.2%) patients complied with chemotherapy regimen, 15 (33.3%) were lost to follow‐up and 12 (26.7%) cases relapsed. With 30 cases available for evaluation and mean follow‐up duration of 23 months (range, 6–80 months), the overall 5‐year survival is 53.3% (16 cases). Survival in children who complied with postoperative chemotherapy was 73.7%, and abandonment‐sensitive survival was 35.6%. Persisting challenges were late presentation, poor compliance to treatment, and lack of radiotherapy treatment.

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary team management and chemotherapy based on tumor histology might have resulted in slight improvement of outcome since our last report. However, to ensure survival that may approach global benchmarks, there is need for public health measures to improve time to diagnosis, and improvement of facilities and healthcare funding to ensure compliance to all phases of standard therapy.
Adaptive behavior impaired in children with low‐grade glioma
Authors: de Lande R. S. van , Maurice‐Stam H. , Marchal J. P. , Vuurden D. G. van , Vandertop W. P , Grootenhuis M. A. , Schouten‐van Meeteren A. Y. N.
Published: August 2018

Background

Adaptive behavior, i.e., the performance on daily activities required for personal and social independence, is essential to estimate in children with low‐grade glioma (LGG) since most of them are long‐term survivors. Our aim was to investigate adaptive behavior in children with LGG.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, adaptive behavior was assessed using the paper pencil version of the Parent Form of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales 2nd edition (VABS‐II) testing communication, daily living skills, social skills, and motor skills. Scores of children with LGG, younger than 20 years, and diagnosed between 2004 and 2014 were compared with family controls. Correlations between clinical variables and adaptive behavior were explored.

Results

Fifty‐six children with LGG (median age, 12.1 years; 52% male) and 46 controls (median age, 11.0 years; 43% male) were included in the analyses. Compared with controls, the LGG group was more impaired on total adaptive behavior, communication, and motor skills and in the subdomain gross motor skills (effect sizes d, 0.64–0.86, P < 0.003). Younger age at diagnosis (r = −0.357, P < 0.01) and chemotherapy (r = −0.342, P < 0.05) were associated with poorer motor skills. Residual disease was associated with poorer total adaptive behavior (r = −0.282, P < 0.05). No other significant correlations were found.

Conclusion

At the group level, adaptive functioning of children with LGG is impaired compared with family controls. Regular structured monitoring of adaptive behavior is recommended to be able to define the needs for tailored rehabilitation in daily life at home as well as at school.
Impact of early analgesia on hospitalization outcomes for sickle cell pain crisis
Authors: Payne Jason , Aban Inmaculada , Hilliard Lee M. , Madison Jennifer , Bemrich‐Stolz Christina , Howard Thomas H. , Brandow Amanda , Waite Emily , Lebensburger Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2018

Background

Painful events are the leading cause of hospitalizations for patients with sickle cell disease. Individualized pain plans targeting patient‐specific maximum opioid dosing may shorten hospitalization length and are recommended by national guidelines. Prior to implementing individualized sickle cell pain plans, we tested the hypothesis that a shorter time to achieve a maximum opioid dose would improve hospitalization outcomes.

Procedure

Two‐year IRB‐approved, retrospective study of pediatric patients admitted for vaso‐occlusive crisis (VOC). We recorded the emergency department admission time, order entry time for the maximum opioid dose during the hospitalization, and time of discharge orders.  We categorized patients as infrequent if they required <3 admissions for VOC over two years and patients as frequent if they required ≥3 admissions for VOC over two years. To account for multiple admissions, generalized linear modeling was performed.

Results

We identified 236 admissions for acute pain observed in 108 patients. Achieving an earlier maximum opioid dose was significantly associated with shorter length of hospitalization for frequent and infrequent pain patients (both P ≤ 0.0001). As total hospitalization length can be impacted by the time a maximum opioid order was placed, we also analyzed hospitalization length after the maximum opioid order was placed. Frequent pain patients who achieved earlier analgesia had a significantly shorter hospitalization from the time the maximum opioid order was placed (P = 0.03) while no association was found for infrequent pain patients (P = 0.84).

Conclusions

Early achievement of maximum analgesia improved hospitalization outcomes and warrant further investigation in prospective studies of individualized pain plans.
Synthesis of polymers having zwitterionic structure via the radical polymerization of 4‐vinylphenyl isothiocyanate/cyclic amidine adduct
Authors: Yamauchi Akira , Matsumoto Kozo , Endo Takeshi
Published: August 2018

Polymers having a zwitterionic pendant group have found a wide range of applications such as fungicides, fire‐retardants, lubricating oil additives, emulsifiers, cryoprotectants, and electronic materials. Their properties depend not only on the polymer main chains but also on the zwitterionic structures. In this article, the synthesis of novel polymers having zwitterionic structures is described. A zwitterionic monomer (4‐vinylphenyl isothiocyanate [VPI]‐1,2‐dimetyl‐1,4,5,6,‐tetrahydropirimidine [DMTHP]) was synthesized by the reaction of VPI and a cyclic amidine DMTHP. A radical polymerization of VPI‐DMTHP was carried out using 2,2′‐azobis(2,4‐dimethyl‐4‐methoxy)valeronitrile (V‐70) as an initiator to give poly(VPI‐DMTHP). The obtained poly(VPI‐DMTHP) was not soluble in any of the investigated organic solvents, probably because it had a networked structure resulting from the ionic interactions. Copolymers of VPI‐DMTHP and other vinyl monomers such as styrene, methyl methacrylate, t‐butyl methacrylate, and N‐vinylpyrrolidone were synthesized. The obtained copolymers were also insoluble in all of the examined common organic solvents even when the VPI‐DMTHP content was low (5 mol %), indicating the existence of strong ionic interactions in the zwitterionic moieties. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2303–2309
Miscible/partially‐miscible blends of polypropylene—the mechanisms responsible for the decrease of yield stress
Authors: Rozanski Artur
Published: August 2018

In miscible or partially‐miscible blends of semicrystalline polymer/non‐cocrystallizing low molecular weight component, a decrease of the value of yield stress in comparison to reference (pure) polymer is usually observed. On the example of model polypropylene/nonadecane systems, the mechanisms responsible for the decrease of the yield stress have been identified. It has been proved that during the deformation of polypropylene/nonadecane blends containing low amount of nonadecane (up to 5 wt %) the reduction of the yield stress is caused only by the swelling of interlamellar regions. In the case of the systems containing a moderate amount of nonadecane (7–10 wt %), the reduction of the yield stress is caused by the swelling of interlamellar regions and the reduction of the sample cross‐section effectively participating in transferring of tensile stress. In blends containing nonadecane in the amount of 15–30 wt % the reduction of the yield stress is caused by the swelling of interlamellar regions and strong asymmetrization of nonadecane microdomains, resulting in localizing the deformation along interspherulitic regions and a drastic reduction of the content of polypropylene matrix, effectively participating in transferring of tensile stress between adjacent spherulites. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2018, 56, 1203–1214
Phase 3 adaptive trial design options in treatment of complicated urinary tract infection
Authors: Viele Kert , Mundy Linda M. , Noble Robert B. , Li Gang , Broglio Kristine , Wetherington Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2018

New antimicrobial drugs for treatment of complicated urinary tract infection (cUTI) are generally assessed in randomized, double‐blind, noninferiority clinical trials. Robust historical data for the active comparator inform on treatment effect estimation, yet typically do not substitute for the active comparator data in the proposed trial. We report design options for a phase 3 trial of cUTI using a Bayesian hierarchical model and historical data from 2 well‐executed phase 3 registrational trials of doripenem. The methodology is directly applicable to other phase 3 noninferiority settings. In addition to the research design application, we provide a novel methodology for assessing the robustness of type I error control. The model borrows heavily from the prior data when the current active comparator parameter estimate approximated the historical estimate. In contrast, the model had restricted borrowing when the 2 estimates were very different. The alternative trial design, with or without the inclusion of futility stopping criteria, provides a framework for future cUTI phase 3 trials.
Nonparametric response‐adaptive randomization for continuous responses
Authors: Liu Zhongqiang , Hu Feifang , Zhang Li‐Xin
Published: August 2018

Many response‐adaptive randomization procedures have been proposed and studied over the past few decades. However, most of these procedures are based on parametric structure and do not directly apply to nonparametric models. In this paper, we propose a response‐adaptive randomization procedure based on Mann‐Whitney U test statistic. Under widely satisfied conditions, we derive asymptotic properties of the randomization procedure and further obtain power functions in form under Mann‐Whitney U test. Simulations show the proposed procedure is more robust and more ethical than classical response‐adaptive randomization procedures in some circumstances. Advantages of the procedure are also illustrated in a redesigned real clinical trial.
Modelling and Optimization of As(III) Adsorption onto Thiol‐Functionalized Bentonite from Aqueous Solutions Using Response Surface Methodology Approach
Authors: Yılmaz Şakir , Ecer Ümit , Şahan Tekin
Published: August 2018

The aim of the present work was to investigate thiol‐functionalized bentonite (TFB) as a novel adsorbent for the adsorption of As(III) from aqueous environments and to determine optimal adsorption conditions. The response surface methodology (RSM) was applied to analyze the most significant variables for adsorption including initial pH, temperature (°C, T), initial As(III) concentration (mgL−1, Co), adsorbent dosage (g, m) and contact time (min., t). The optimum adsorption conditions according to the RSM were found to be 5.98, 42.87 °C, 31.02 mgL−1, 0.33 g and 127.48 min for initial pH, T, Co, m and t, respectively. Under these conditions obtained by the model, the maximum percentage of As(III) adsorption and adsorption capacity were found to be 91.01% and 8.56 mgg−1, respectively. The kinetic studies showed that As(III) adsorption followed a pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and the rate was controlled by both intraparticle and film diffusion. Experimental data were compared with linear isotherm models and it was found that the adsorption data has better fit to the Langmuir isotherm model. Furthermore, the thermodynamic studies showed that the adsorption of As(III) was endothermic, possible and natural. Based on all these conclusions, it can be said that TFB has high potential for As(III) removal from aqueous environments.
Topochemical Understanding of Lignin Distribution During Hydrothermal Flowthrough Pretreatment
Authors: Jung Seokwon , Trajano Heather L. , Yoo Chang Geun , Foston Marcus B. , Hu Fan , Tolbert Allison K. , Wyman Charles E. , Ragauskas Arthur J.
Published: August 2018

Changes in surface properties during biomass pretreatments are important parameters to understand and engineer biological biomass conversion processes. In particular, different influences on the surface of biomass are expected between flowthrough and batch pretreatments. For a better understanding of biomass surface changes by hydrothermal flowthrough pretreatment, the mechanism by which the surface of biomass is altered in terms of cellulose and lignin was investigated using time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) and compared with the bulk chemical composition and the results from scanning electron microscope (SEM). ToF‐SIMS analysis results provide semi‐quantitative information of cellulose and lignin and support the other observation from SEM and bulk compositional analyses. In brief, more lignin was observed on the surface of biomass at the early stage hydrothermal pretreatment, while the lignin mainly located at the cell corners was reduced by extended pretreatment time. Unlike batch pretreatment, pseudo‐lignin formation was not observed on the poplar surface during the flowthrough process.
Functionalized Carboxyl Carbon/NaBOB Composite as Highly Conductive Electrolyte for Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Lixia , Han Weifang , Ge Chunhua , Zhang Rui , Bai Yufeng , Zhang Xiangdong
Published: August 2018

Sodium‐ion batteries are the most promising candidates of reusable batteries because of the huge abundant sodium resources and low cost. So the new types of sodium electrolyte materials are attracted to be identified. In this paper, a series of sodium composites are synthesized by the carboxyl carbon spheres (HTC‐COOH) and sodium bis(oxalate)‐borate (NaBOB) using the solid‐state reaction. FTIR, TG, XRD, elemental analysis, SEM and AFM are used to prove the successful synthesis of functionalized carboxyl carbon/NaBOB (HTC/NaBOB) composite. The thermal stability and ionic conductivity of the composites are also studied and discussed. The test results show the HTC/NaBOB composites have high thermal stability, which possess the thermal decomposition temperature higher than 300°C in N2. When the weight ratio of oxalic acid, boric acid, sodium hydroxide and HTC‐COOH reaches appropriate proportion, the conductivity of HTC/NaBOB composite electrolyte solution is higher than NaBOB in N, N‐Dimethylformamide (DMF) with the same the content of element boron and the ionic conductivity of 0.10 mol dm−3 electrolyte solution is 4.87 mScm−1 in DMF. The study shows that these composites are non‐absorbent water and easy to be recycle and store as electrolytes. They may have great potential as a new class of electrolyte for high‐performance sodium ion batteries.
Photosensitizer and Autophagy Promoter Coloaded ROS‐Responsive Dendrimer‐Assembled Carrier for Synergistic Enhancement of Tumor Growth Suppression
Authors: Wang Ting , Hu Jinhui , Luo Hao , Li Huiyang , Zhou Jiahong , Zhou Lin , Wei Shaohua
Published: August 2018

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during photodynamic therapy (PDT) can trigger autophagy. However, little research is focused on whether there is a synergistic anticancer effect with PDT if extra autophagy promoter or inhibitor is added. Here, it is found that autophagy promotion significantly enhances the PDT activity to cancer cells. Based on this preliminary result, a ROS‐sensitive self‐assembled dendrimer nanoparticle is exploited as a carrier to codeliver an autophagy promoter (rapamycin, Rapa) and photosensitizer (phthalocyanine, Pc) to the tumor. After entrapped by cancer cells and irradiated by light, the ROS generated in PDT process of Pc can trigger nanoparticle destruction to release Rapa, thus initiating the autophagy process and remarkably enhancing the efficacy of PDT, leading to efficient tumor suppression.
Polymer Assisted Small Molecule Hole Transport Layers Toward Highly Efficient Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Wang , Liu Changwen , Li Yunlong , Kong Weiguang , Wang Xingzhu , Chen Hong , Xu Baomin , Cheng Chun
Published: August 2018

In this paper, inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) employing a novel polymer‐assisted small molecule layer as hole transport layer (HTL) are reported and the effect of mixed HTL on the device performance is investigated. It is the first time that the small molecule HTL is doped with a polymer HTL. The introduction of appropriate content of polymer into the small molecule layer will lead to a much smoother surface for the mixed HTL and largely reduced charge recombination, and most importantly, the energy level alignment is more matched with that of the perovskite via optimization of the doping content. Therefore, the hole transfer property is largely improved for the perovskite/mixed HTL composites. After the optimization of the polymer content in the mixed HTLs, an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.03 ± 0.53% is achieved, and the champion device exhibits a PCE of >21%. This work provides an effective strategy for the development of highly efficient inverted PSCs based on small molecule HTLs.
Quercetin induced cell apoptosis and altered gene expression in AGS human gastric cancer cells
Authors: Shang Hung‐Sheng , Lu Hsu‐Feng , Lee Ching‐Hsiao , Chiang Han‐Sun , Chu Yung‐Lin , Chen Ann , Lin Yuh‐Feng , Chung Jing‐Gung
Published: August 2018

Quercetin is one of the natural components from natural plant and it induces cell apoptosis in many human cancer cell lines. However, no available reports show that quercetin induces apoptosis and altered associated gene expressions in human gastric cancer cells, thus, we investigated the effect of quercetin on the apoptotic cell death and associated gene expression in human gastric cancer AGS cells. Results indicated that quercetin induced cell morphological changes and reduced total viability via apoptotic cell death in AGS cells. Furthermore, results from flow cytometric assay indicated that quercetin increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, decreased the levels of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and increased the apoptotic cell number in AGS cells. Results from western blotting showed that quercetin decreased anti‐apoptotic protein of Mcl‐1, Bcl‐2, and Bcl‐x but increased pro‐apoptotic protein of Bad, Bax, and Bid. Furthermore, quercetin increased the gene expressions of TNFRSF10D (Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 10d, decoy with truncated death domain), TP53INP1 (tumor protein p53 inducible nuclear protein 1), and JUNB (jun B proto‐oncogene) but decreased the gene expression of VEGFB (vascular endothelial growth factor B), CDK10 (cyclin‐dependent kinase 10), and KDELC2 (KDEL [Lys‐Asp‐Glu‐Leu] containing 2) that are associated with apoptosis pathways. Thus, those findings may offer more information regarding the molecular, gene expression, and signaling pathway for quercetin induced apoptotic cell death in human gastric cancer cells.
Overlap singularity and time evolution in integrable quantum field theory
Authors: Horváth D. X. , Kormos M. , Takács G.
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We study homogeneous quenches in integrable quantum field theory where the initial state contains zero-momentum particles. We demonstrate that the two-particle pair amplitude necessarily has a singularity at the two-particle threshold. Albeit the explicit discussion is carried out for special (integrable) initial states, we argue that the singularity is inevitably present and is a generic feature of homogeneous quenches involving the creation of zero momentum particles. We also identify the singularity in quenches in the Ising model across the quantum critical point, and compute it perturbatively in phase quenches in the quantum sine-Gordon model which are potentially relevant to experiments. We then construct the explicit time dependence of one-point functions using a linked cluster expansion regulated by a finite volume parameter. We find that the secular contribution normally linear in time is modified by a t ln t term. We additionally encounter a novel type of secular contribution which is shown to be related to parametric resonance. It is an interesting open question to resum the new contributions and to establish their consequences directly observable in experiments or numerical simulations.
T-duality to scattering amplitude and Wilson loop in non-commutative super Yang-Mills theory
Authors: He Song , Shu Hongfei
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We first perform bosonic T-duality transformation on one of the marginal TsT (T-duality, shift, T-duality)-deformed AdS
5×S
5 spacetime, which corresponds to 4D

$$ \mathcal{N}=4 $$

N
=
4

non-commutative super Yang-Mills theory (NCSYM). We then construct the solution to Killing spinor equations of the resulting background, and perform the fermionic T-duality transformation. The final dual geometry becomes the usual AdS
5 × S
5 spacetime but with a constant NS-NS B-field depending on the non-commutative parameter. As applications, we study the gluon scattering amplitude and open string (Wilson loop) solution in the TsT-deformed AdS
5 × S
5 spacetime, which are dual to the null polygon Wilson loop and the folded string solution respectively in the final dual geometry.
Analysis of the b1 meson decay in local tensor bilinear representation
Authors: Jeong Kie Sang , Lee Su Houng , Oh Yongseok
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We explore the validity of vector meson dominance in the radiative decay of the b
1(1235) meson. In order to explain the violation of the vector meson dominance hypothesis in this decay process, we investigate a model where the b
1 meson strongly couples with the local current in tensor bilinear representation. The tensor representation is investigated in the framework of the operator product expansion and we found a low energy decay process that does not follow the usual vector meson dominance hypothesis. The ω-like intermediate meson state of quantum numbers I

G
(J

PC
) = 0−(1− −) is found to have a nontrivial role in the decay process of the b
1 meson. The spectral structure of the ω-like state is found to be close to a π-ρ hybrid state, which provides a mechanism that evades the usual vector meson dominance hypothesis. Precise measurements of various decay channels of the b
1 meson are, therefore, required to unravel the internal structure of axial vector mesons.
Analysis of constraints and their algebra in bimetric theory
Authors: Hassan S. F. , Lundkvist Anders
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We perform a canonical analysis of the bimetric theory in the metric formulation, computing the constraints and their algebra explicitly. In particular, we compute a secondary constraint, that has been argued to exist earlier, and show that it has the correct form to eliminate the ghost. We also identify a set of four first class constraints that generate the algebra of general covariance. The covariance algebra naturally determines a spacetime metric for the theory. However, in bimetric theory, this metric is not unique but depends on how the first class constraints are identified.
Multivariate ordinal regression models: an analysis of corporate credit ratings
Authors: Hirk Rainer , Hornik Kurt , Vana Laura
Published: August 2018

Correlated ordinal data typically arises from multiple measurements on a collection of subjects. Motivated by an application in credit risk, where multiple credit rating agencies assess the creditworthiness of a firm on an ordinal scale, we consider multivariate ordinal regression models with a latent variable specification and correlated error terms. Two different link functions are employed, by assuming a multivariate normal and a multivariate logistic distribution for the latent variables underlying the ordinal outcomes. Composite likelihood methods, more specifically the pairwise and tripletwise likelihood approach, are applied for estimating the model parameters. Using simulated data sets with varying number of subjects, we investigate the performance of the pairwise likelihood estimates and find them to be robust for both link functions and reasonable sample size. The empirical application consists of an analysis of corporate credit ratings from the big three credit rating agencies (Standard & Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch). Firm-level and stock price data for publicly traded US firms as well as an unbalanced panel of issuer credit ratings are collected and analyzed to illustrate the proposed framework.
Archimedean Metanorms
Authors: Carter J. Adam
Published: August 2018

One notable line of argument for epistemic relativism appeals to considerations to do withnon-neutrality: in certain dialectical contexts—take for instance the famous dispute between Galileo and Cardinal Bellarmine concerning geocentrism—it seems as though a lack of suitably neutral epistemic standards that either side could appeal to in order to (non-question-beggingly) resolve their first-order dispute is itself—as Rorty (Philosophy and the mirror of nature, Princeton University Press, Princeton, 1979) influentially thought—evidence for epistemic relativism. In this essay, my aim is first to present a more charitable reformulation of this line of reasoning, one that is framed not merely in terms of the availability of epistemic norms that aresuitably neutralbetween interlocutors, but in terms of the availability of what I callArchimedean metanorms. Once this more charitable line of argument is developed, I show how, even though it avoids problems that face ‘non-neutrality’ versions of the argument, it nonetheless runs into various other problems that appear ultimately intractable and, further, that the strategy in question gives us no decisive reason to draw the relativist’s conclusion rather than the Pyrrhonian sceptic’s.
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5): The culprit for chronic lung diseases in China
Authors: Li Tao , Hu Rong , Chen Zi , Li Qiyuan , Huang Shouxiong , Zhu Zhou , Zhou Lin‐Fu
Published: August 2018

Air pollution is a world public health problem. Particulate matter (PM), a mix of solid and liquid particles in the air, becomes an increasing concern in the social and economic development of China. For decades, epidemiological studies have confirmed the association between fine particle pollutants and respiratory diseases. It has been reported in different populations that increased fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations cause elevated susceptibility to respiratory diseases, including acute respiratory distress, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer. This review will discuss the pathophysiology of PM2.5 in respiratory diseases, which are helpful for the prevention of air pollution and treatment of respiratory tract inflammatory diseases.
CIRCpedia v2: An Updated Database for Comprehensive Circular RNA Annotation and Expression Comparison
Authors: Dong Rui , Ma Xu-Kai , Li Guo-Wei , Yang Li
Published: August 2018

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) from back-splicing of exon(s) have been recently identified to be broadly expressed in eukaryotes, in tissue- and species-specific manners. Although functions of most circRNAs remain elusive, some circRNAs are shown to be functional in gene expression regulation and potentially relate to diseases. Due to their stability, circRNAs can also be used as biomarkers for diagnosis. Profiling circRNAs by integrating their expression among different samples thus provides molecular basis for further functional study of circRNAs and their potential application in clinic. Here, we report CIRCpedia v2, an updated database for comprehensive circRNA annotation from over 180 RNA-seq datasets across six different species. This atlas allows users to search, browse, and download circRNAs with expression features in various cell types/tissues, including disease samples. In addition, the updated database incorporates conservation analysis of circRNAs between humans and mice. Finally, the web interface also contains computational tools to compare circRNA expression among samples. CIRCpedia v2 is accessible at http://www.picb.ac.cn/rnomics/circpedia.
“Delectable North Wales” and Stakeholders: The London & North Western Railway’s Marketing of North Wales, c.1904–1914
Authors: TURNER DAVID A.
Published: August 2018

This article discusses the London & North Western Railway’s (LNWR) marketing activities before 1914. It extends our understanding of British railway marketing by examining how the company forged links with stakeholders in North Wales, particularly the resort authorities, in support of its development of the tourist trade there. While the company remained the dominant force in promoting the region, cooperative working facilitated the sharing of market intelligence, exchange of best practice, coordination of advertising efforts, coordination of services, and the harmonizing of a promotional message that appealed to middle-class discretionary travelers that North Wales was a place for health and pleasure. The article also shows how the LNWR deployed a system of integrated marketing communications, providing one of the earliest known examples within British business of such practice. The sum result was positive impacts on the development of the North Welsh tourist trade in the years before the World War I.