bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oil Royalties In Brazil: Between Financial Compensation And Taxation – A Legal And Economic Analysis
Authors: Nunes Ricardo Da Costa
Published: October 2024

This article examines the use and distribution of oil royalties in Brazil, which shifted from being treated as financial compensation to taxation following the enactment of laws by the National Congress. This change in the treatment of royalties can be explained by public choice theory, which suggests that the actions of parliamentarians reflect the interests of pressure groups. Consequently, the compensation intended for entities where oil and gas exploration takes place began to be treated as a tax, benefiting all entities within the federation. Thus, it is reasonable to admit that the law's approval overlooked some essential characteristics of the nature of royalties by modifying their distribution to subnational entities that do not have oil exploration activities. Through a critical approach, the article suggests the need for a conceptual and normative review to ensure that royalties fulfil their role as a financial compensation mechanism without harming economic growth or fiscal transparency.
"Evolving Horizons: The Journey And Impact Of LIC's Landmark IPO"
Authors: Kumar Dr Shalini , Vij Prof. M.
Published: October 2024

The Initial Public Offering (IPO) of the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) in May 2022 marked a pivotal transition for one of India’s largest financial institutions from a state-owned entity to a publicly listed company. This move was part of the government's broader strategy to divest its stakes in public sector enterprises, aiming to enhance operational efficiencies, improve transparency, and maximise shareholder value. Navigating through a series of legislative amendments and complex valuation challenges, the IPO drew substantial attention from both domestic and international investors, reflecting strong confidence in LIC's market fundamentals. This paper provides a detailed review of the IPO process, the subsequent market response, and its impact on LIC’s business operations and governance structure. It discusses the strategic motivations behind the IPO, the execution challenges, and the implications for future economic reforms in India. By analysing LIC’s performance post-IPO, the study highlights the critical role such transformative events play in modernising state-owned enterprises and integrating them with global financial markets, projecting significant implications for similarentities considering public offerings.
To What Extent Do Changes In Spot, Forward, Libor, And Swap Rates Explain The Observed Variations In Currency Derivatives Markets Over A 40-Year Period?
Authors: Thacker Krishhey
Published: October 2024

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Creating And Accelerating The Shift From Fossil Fuel Jobs To Green Energy Jobs
Authors: Chakraborty Ajay
Published: October 2024

The green energy job market in the United States is growing consistently, whereas fossil fuel employment is declining. Green energy jobs have overtaken fossil fuel jobs in electric power generation (EPG), and they are beginning to command a presence in the fuels sector. Demand for green energy workers is very high, and green energy employers are having trouble finding qualified workers to fill their open positions. Real wages in green energy are increasing, the jobs are stable, and workers have more choice as to which parts of the US they want to live in. Meanwhile, workers are being pushed out of fossil fuel jobs, and this has caused fossil fuel dependent communities to languish. However, workers pushed out of fossil fuel industries are not shifting to green energy jobs, despite their attractive qualities. This is caused by numerous, major barriers. However, solutions are starting to form amongst major institutions such as the Brookings Institute and the New York Times, showcasing that there is a real problem and potential for opportunity in this area. A possible solution is to take this job transition online, consolidating the workers, employers, and necessary re-training in one place
Reducing The Order Of The Travelling SalesmanProblems By Minimin Optimization Theory AndToStudyBy DAS Technique
Authors: Das Prasanta Kumar
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this article is to propose a new approach for finding the guaranteed solution set of minimizedassignment problems and maximized assignment problems. Firstly the existence of the minimin and maximaxoptimization problems are studied with the help of newly defined weakly φ-convex function in φ-convex set. Next the assignment problems and traveling problems are converted to a complete bipartite graph in a unifiedapproach. The concept dominated assignment simulation (DAS) technique based on the theory of miniminandmaximax optimization problems. Later a pair of traveling salesman problems are studied using the DAS technique and complete bipartite graphas an application of minimin optimization problem. Finally, a pair of comparison studies are discussed to showequality of solutions and the number of steps in between Hungarian method and DAS technique
Practices Of Corporate Governance And Its Impact On Perceived Performance In Nepalese Life Insurance Companies
Authors: Tiwari Uday Kishor , Tiwari Ram Kumar , Shah Binod
Published: October 2024

The goal of this research is to explore the ‘Practice of Corporate Governance and Its Impact on Perceived Performance in Nepalese Life Insurance Companies’. The study used a descriptive and causal comparative research design. The main variables of corporate governance identified include commitment to corporate governance, transparency and disclosure, alongside the structure and functioning of the board. In contrast, the perceived performance of the companies, measured through enhanced productivity and profitability, serves as the control variable. The analysis covers all 14 life insurance companies currently functioning in Nepal. To achieve the study's objectives, a judgmental sampling approach from the non-probability sampling method was adopted, while purposive sampling was applied to identify respondents for the questionnaires. Out of the 14 companies, five were selected as samples. The participants included specific employees from these companies, with a total of 106 respondents completing the questionnaire. The data were analyzed using a multiple linear regression model. The findings revealed that Nepalese life insurance companies exhibit strong adherence to corporate governance and their performance is also excellent; however, the connection between commitment to corporate governance, structure and functioning of the board, transparency and disclosure, and perceived performance appears to be quite weak. The research concluded that effective corporate governance have only a slight positive association with performance.
The Role Of Blockchain Technology In Enhancing Financial Inclusion
Authors: Adegbite Ayodeji
Published: October 2024

Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative force with the potential to greatly improve financial inclusion, especially among underbanked and unbanked communities. Financial inclusion refers to the accessibility and availability of financial services for all individuals, yet billions remain excluded from formal financial systems. Traditional banking often overlooks these populations due to geographic barriers, high transaction fees, and strict regulatory frameworks. Blockchain provides a decentralized, secure, and transparent platform for financial transactions, allowing individuals to access services without relying on traditional banking infrastructure. By removing intermediaries, blockchain lowers transaction costs, accelerates service delivery, and enhances transparency. It enables peerto-peer transactions, facilitates cross-border remittances, and supports micro-lending through smart contracts, thereby broadening access to vital financial services. Furthermore, the immutable and auditable characteristics of blockchain foster trust in financial systems, particularly in regions plagued by weak institutions or corruption. However, despite its promise, blockchain faces substantial hurdles such as regulatory uncertainties, limitations in technological infrastructure, and cryptocurrency volatility that impede widespread adoption. Integrating blockchain with complementary technologies like mobile banking and the internet could further enhance its role in advancing financial inclusion. This paper investigates the diverse effects of blockchain technology on financial inclusion while critically analyzing both its potential advantages and the challenges that must be addressed to fully leverage its capabilities in promoting global financial access and equity.
Comprehensive Analysis Of Background Screening Impact On Employee Experience And Organizational Outcomes
Authors: Princewill Abumere Oseghale
Published: October 2024

This comprehensive study examines the multifaceted impact of background checks on employee experience and organizational outcomes, with a particular focus on the implementation of a nationwide, standardized employment screening system. The research is guided by six interconnected themes: trust, transparency, fairness, diversity and inclusion, engagement, and retention. In the contemporary business landscape, background checks have transcended their traditional role as a mere formality, evolving into critical assets for enhancing employee satisfaction, organizational trust, and retention rates. This review synthesizes a wide array of studies to analyze the complex interplay between background screening practices and employer-employee relationships. It establishes robust evidence for how fair, transparent, and reasonable background checks can significantly enhance organizational commitment and employee loyalty. The results underscore the critical importance of awareness and transparency in the background check process, highlighting how these factors foster trust and perceptions of fairness, ultimately leading to positive employee attitudes and improved organizational outcomes. The study also delves into the potential adverse effects of excessive or biased background checks on workforce diversity, with a particular emphasis on historically marginalized groups and individuals with criminal records. It proposes that employers who embrace equality in the workplace and ensure that their background check processes are free from unlawful discrimination can cultivate and maintain a diverse, inclusive, and highperforming workforce. The implications for practice and research are far-reaching. To optimize employee experience and key outcomes such as organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and reduced turnover intention, employers must prioritize fairness, transparency, and inclusiveness in their background check processes. The study identifies critical areas for further research, including sector-specific effects of background screening practices and the impact of emerging technologies and data privacy concerns on background check processes. By reconceptualizing background checks as a strategic tool for building trust and enhancing employee commitment, rather than a mere compliance exercise, organizations can achieve superior outcomes across multiple dimensions of performance. This research provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and implementing effective background screening practices that balance organizational risk management with positive employee experiences.
Adult Learning in Health Professions Education
Authors: Bierema Laura L.
Published: February 2018

This chapter focuses on the process of learning in health professions education (HPE) in terms of key issues that shape HPE learning and essential strategies for promoting and facilitating learning among professionals.
Starting a Health Professions Education Graduate Program
Authors: Hansman Catherine A.
Published: February 2018

This chapter is a case story of the evolution of the Master of Education in Health Professions Education (MEHPE), a collaborative graduate program developed by the Adult Learning and Development program at Cleveland State University and the Cleveland Clinic.
Catalyst‐Free, Fast, and Tunable Synthesis for Robust Covalent Polymer Network Semiconducting Thin Films
Authors: Yao Liang , Rahmanudin Aiman , Jeanbourquin Xavier A. , Yu Xiaoyun , Johnson Melissa , Guijarro Néstor , Sekar Arvindh , Sivula Kevin
Published: February 2018

Covalent polymer networks (CPNs) are of great technological interest due to their robustness and tunability; however, they are rarely applied as semiconductors in optoelectronic devices due to poor material processability. Herein, a simple, rapid, and powerful approach is reported to prepare CPN thin films based on an in situ thermal azide–alkyne cycloaddition (TAAC) in the absence of catalyst or solvent. The method is demonstrated with perylenediimide and triazine‐based monomers, and affords smooth and homogenous CPN films through solution processing and heat treatment (10 min). Moreover, the site‐specific TAAC realizes semiconducting CPNs without undesired impurities or byproducts, and tunable optoelectronic properties are achieved by varying the reaction temperature, which affects the intermolecular self‐assembly. The obtained CPN films exhibit exceptional solvent resistance and good n‐type semiconducting behavior, which together afford application in a series of multilayer solution‐processed organic photovoltaics, where the presence of CPN films significantly improves the solar energy conversion efficiency to over 8% (7% in control devices) when the CPN is used in a planar‐mixed heterojunction device architecture.
Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs)‐Derived Nitrogen‐Doped Porous Carbon Anchored on Graphene with Multifunctional Effects for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Chen Ke , Sun Zhenhua , Fang Ruopian , Shi Ying , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Li Feng
Published: February 2018

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are highly appealing for next‐generation electrochemical energy storage owing to their high theoretical energy density, environmental friendliness, and low cost. However, the insulating nature of sulfur and migration of dissolved polysulfide intermediates lead to low active material utilization and fast capacity decay, which pose a significant challenge to their practical applications. Here, this paper reports a multifunctional carbon hybrid with metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)‐derived nitrogen‐doped porous carbon anchored on graphene sheets (NPC/G) serving as a sulfur host. On the one hand, the high surface area and nitrogen‐doping of the carbon nanoparticles enable effective polysulfide immobilization through both physical confinement and chemical adsorption; on the other hand, the highly conductive graphene provides an interconnected conductive framework to facilitate fast electron transport, improving the sulfur utilization. As a result, the NPC/G‐based sulfur cathode exhibits a high specific capacity of 1372 mAh g−1 with good cycling stability over 300 cycles. This approach provides a promising approach for the design of MOFs‐derived carbon materials for high performance Li–S batteries.
Highly Confined and Tunable Hyperbolic Phonon Polaritons in Van Der Waals Semiconducting Transition Metal Oxides
Authors: Zheng Zebo , Chen Jianing , Wang Yu , Wang Ximiao , Chen Xiaobo , Liu Pengyi , Xu Jianbin , Xie Weiguang , Chen Huanjun , Deng Shaozhi , Xu Ningsheng
Published: February 2018

2D van der Waals (vdW) layered polar crystals sustaining phonon polaritons (PhPs) have opened up new avenues for fundamental research and optoelectronic applications in the mid‐infrared to terahertz ranges. To date, 2D vdW crystals with PhPs are only experimentally demonstrated in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) slabs. For optoelectronic and active photonic applications, semiconductors with tunable charges, finite conductivity, and moderate bandgaps are preferred. Here, PhPs are demonstrated with low loss and ultrahigh electromagnetic field confinements in semiconducting vdW α‐MoO3. The α‐MoO3 supports strong hyperbolic PhPs in the mid‐infrared range, with a damping rate as low as 0.08. The electromagnetic confinements can reach ≈λ0/120, which can be tailored by altering the thicknesses of the α‐MoO3 2D flakes. Furthermore, spatial control over the PhPs is achieved with a metal‐ion‐intercalation strategy. The results demonstrate α‐MoO3 as a new platform for studying hyperbolic PhPs with tunability, which enable switchable mid‐infrared nanophotonic devices.
Cu(I)‐Catalyzed Site Selective Acyloxylation of Indoline Using O2 as the Sole Oxidant
Authors: Ahmad Ashfaq , Dutta Himangsu Sekhar , Khan Bhuttu , Kant Ruchir , Koley Dipankar
Published: February 2018

A Cu(I)‐catalyzed regioselective cross‐dehydrogenative coupling of indoline with a variety aryl and alkyl carboxylic acids is described. The divergent process for the oxygenation was achieved in satisfactory yields under additive free conditions, which provides an efficient strategy for the regioselective C7 functionalization of indolines using inexpensive copper catalyst. Oxygen as the sole oxidant is required in this protocol. The method is tolerated by a wide range of functional groups. Preliminary mechanistic study provided support for a reversible C−H bond metallation step.

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Graphite as Cointercalation Electrode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Electrode Dynamics and the Missing Solid Electrolyte Interphase (SEI)
Authors: Goktas Mustafa , Bolli Christoph , Berg Erik J. , Novák Petr , Pollok Kilian , Langenhorst Falko , Roeder Maximilian v. , Lenchuk Olena , Mollenhauer Doreen , Adelhelm Philipp
Published: February 2018

The intercalation of solvated sodium ions into graphite from ether electrolytes was recently discovered to be a surprisingly reversible process. The mechanisms of this “cointercalation reaction” are poorly understood and commonly accepted design criteria for graphite intercalation electrodes do not seem to apply. The excellent reversibility despite the large volume expansion, the small polarization and the puzzling role of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) are particularly striking. Here, in situ electrochemical dilatometry, online electrochemical mass spectrometry (OEMS), a variety of other methods among scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) as well as theory to advance the understanding of this peculiar electrode reaction are used. The electrode periodically “breathes” by about 70–100% during cycling yet excellent reversibility is maintained. This is because the graphite particles exfoliate to crystalline platelets but do not delaminate. The speed at which the electrode breathes strongly depends on the state of discharge/charge. Below 0.5 V versus Na+/Na, the reaction behaves more pseudocapacitive than Faradaic. Despite the large volume changes, OEMS gas analysis shows that electrolyte decomposition is largely restricted to the first cycle only. Combined with TEM analysis and the electrochemical results, this suggests that the reaction is likely the first example of a SEI‐free graphite anode.
Sensortechnologien durch neuartige Materialien und Moleküle
Authors: Swager Timothy M.
Published: February 2018

Viele moderne Technologien und insbesondere die molekulare Sensorik beruhen auf Innovationen im Design neuer Moleküle. Das Design neuartiger, molekularer Sensoren ist erforderlich, um chemische und biologische Signale zu erfassen und somit kostengünstige, allgegenwärtige Chemosensoren zu entwickeln. Wir sind für viele neue Innovationen bereit, um neue Generationen von Sensortechnologien zu realisieren. Heutige Hardware zu erweitern, deren Kosten zu senken und eine breite Implementierung molekularer Sensorik sicherzustellen, ist nur mithilfe dieser neuartigen Materialien und Moleküle möglich.
Molecular Recognition by a Short Partial Peptide of the Adrenergic Receptor: A Bottom‐Up Approach
Authors: Sekiguchi Tsubasa , Tamura Masato , Oba Hikari , Çarçarbal Pierre , Lozada‐Garcia Rolando Rafael , Zehnacker‐Rentien Anne , Grégoire Gilles , Ishiuchi Shun‐ichi , Fujii Masaaki
Published: February 2018

Receptor–neurotransmitter molecular recognition is key for neurotransmission. Although crystal structures of the receptors are known, the mechanism for recognition is not clear. Reported here is the ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) spectra of complexes between a partial peptide (SIVSF), mimicking the binding motif of a catechol ring in the adrenergic receptor, and various ligands. The UV spectra show that two isomers coexist in the complex of SIVSF with properly recognized ligands, such as protonated adrenaline (adrenalineH+). From IR spectra, they are assigned to catechol‐ and amino‐bound structures. The catechol‐bound structure is not observed when the ligand is replaced by nonproper molecules, such as noradrenalineH+. The results suggest that SIVSF not only recognizes the catechol ring but can distinguish differences in the amine side chain. The method provides a new possibility for screening molecules as potential therapeutics for activating the receptor.
Sensor Technologies Empowered by Materials and Molecular Innovations
Authors: Swager Timothy M.
Published: February 2018

Functional synthetic designer materials can impact many advanced technologies, and the chemical sensor area is intimately reliant on these new chemical innovations. The transduction of chemical and biological signals is necessary for low cost omnipresent chemical sensing and will be realized by chemical designs of new transduction materials. We are poised for many new innovations to empower new generations of sensor technologies. Materials innovations promise to expand the capabilities of present hardware, drive down the cost, and ensure broad implementation of these methods.
γ‐Fe2O3@Cu3Al‐LDH‐TUD as a new Amphoteric, Highly Efficient and Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalyst for the Solvent‐free Synthesis of Dihydropyrano[3,2‐c]pyrazoles and dihydropyrano[3,2‐c]chromens
Authors: Azarifar Davood , Tadayoni Mehrdad , Ghaemi Masoumeh
Published: February 2018

Thiourea dioxide was immobilized on γ‐Fe2O3@Cu3Al‐LDH magnetic nanoparticles to prepare the γ‐Fe2O3@Cu3Al‐LDH‐TUD MNPs. The structure and properties of these magnetic nanoparticles were established by FT‐IR, EDX, SEM, XRD, and hystogram of particle size analytical methods. The results obtained from these analytical methods confirmed the successful immobilization of the thiourea dioxide onto the magnetic support. The synthesized magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) exhibited high catalytic activity in one‐pot three‐component reactions under mild and solvent‐free conditions for the synthesis of diverse ranges of dihydropyrano[3,2‐c]pyrazoles and dihydropyrano[3,2‐c]chromens. All the reactions proceeded smoothly to furnish the respective products in excellent yields. Simple isolation of the products, avoidance of harmful organic solvents, versatility of the catalyst and its easy magnetic separation and reusability with no significant loss of activity are the main advantages of the present method.
Synthesis of novel poly(ethylene glycol)‐containing imidazolium‐functionalized phosphine ligands and their application in the hydrosilylation of olefins
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Li Jiayun , Yang Chuang , Niu Congbai , Bai Ying , Liu Yu , Peng Jiajian
Published: February 2018

A series of polyethylene glycol‐containing imidazolium‐functionalized phosphine ligands (mPEG‐im‐PPh2) were successfully synthesized and used in the rhodium‐catalyzed hydrosilylation of olefins. The results indicate that the RhCl3/mPEG‐im‐PPh2 catalytic system exhibits both excellent activity and selectivity for the β‐adduct. In addition, the catalytic system may be recycled at least six times.
Palladium nanoparticles immobilized on EDTA‐modified Fe3O4@SiO2 nanospheres as an efficient and magnetically separable catalyst for Suzuki and Sonogashira cross‐coupling reactions
Authors: Esmaeilpour Mohsen , Zahmatkesh Saeed , Fahimi Nafiseh , Nosratabadi Mehran
Published: February 2018

In this study, a novel heterogeneous palladium catalyst was synthesized by anchoring palladium onto
ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)‐coated Fe3O4@SiO2 magnetic nanocomposite and used for the Suzuki and Sonogashira cross‐coupling reactions. The properties of the magnetic catalyst were characterized by FT‐IR, XRD, TEM, FE‐SEM, DLS EDX, XPS, N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherm analysis, TGA, VSM, elemental analysis and the loading level of Pd in catalyst was measured to be 0.51 mmol/g by ICP. The catalyst was used in Suzuki cross‐coupling reactions of various aryl halides, including less reactive chlorobenzenes with phenylboronic acid without any additive or ligand under green conditions. Furthermore, we have reported this recyclable catalytic system for Sonogashira cross‐coupling reactions of various aryl halides (I, Br, Cl) under copper and ligand‐free conditions in the presence of DMF/H2O (1:2/v:v) as a solvent. The magnetic catalyst could also be separated by an external magnet and reused six times without any significant loss of activity.
An optimal burn‐in policy based on a degradation model
Authors: Mosayebi Omshi E. , Shemehsavar S.
Published: February 2018

Burn‐in tests help manufacturers detect defective items and remove them before being sold to customers. In a competitive marketplace, cost is a major consideration and not employing a burn‐in test may result in higher and needless expenses. With this in mind, we consider degradation‐based burn‐in tests in which the degradation path follows a Wiener process and weak items are identified when the process crosses a piecewise linear function. We also study linear functions as a special case of such a piecewise linear barrier. Within this setup, we apply a cost model to determine the optimal burn‐in test. Finally, we discuss an illustrative example using GaAs laser degradation data and present an optimal burn‐in test for it.
Tracking the Oxygen Status in the Cell Nucleus with a Hoechst‐Tagged Phosphorescent Ruthenium Complex
Authors: Hara Daiki , Umehara Yui , Son Aoi , Asahi Wataru , Misu Sotaro , Kurihara Ryohsuke , Kondo Teruyuki , Tanabe Kazuhito
Published: February 2018

Molecular oxygen in living cells is distributed and consumed inhomogeneously, depending on the activity of each organelle. Therefore, tractable methods that can be used to monitor the oxygen status in each organelle are needed to understand cellular function. Here we report the design of a new oxygen‐sensing probe for use in the cell nucleus. We prepared “Ru‐Hoechsts”, each consisting of a phosphorescent ruthenium complex linked to a Hoechst 33258 moiety, and characterized their properties as oxygen sensors. The Hoechst unit shows strong DNA‐binding properties in the nucleus, and the ruthenium complex shows oxygen‐dependent phosphorescence. Thus, Ru‐Hoechsts accumulated in the cell nucleus and showed oxygen‐dependent signals that could be monitored. Of the Ru‐Hoechsts prepared in this study, Ru‐Hoechst b, in which the ruthenium complex and the Hoechst unit were linked through a hexyl chain, showed the most suitable properties for monitoring the oxygen status. Ru‐Hoechsts are probes with high potential for visualizing oxygen fluctuations in the nucleus.
PPVI in children under 20 kilograms: A quid pro quo?
Authors: Benson Lee
Published: February 2018

Key Points

Percutaneous PV implantation can be achieved in very small children (<20 kg)

The clinic impact appears beneficial in the early term

Studies to determine whether this treatment pathway will preserve RV function and translate to better survival needs investigation
KISS for in‐stent restenosis
Authors: Butman Samuel
Published: February 2018

Key Points

We treat ISR primarily with new DES implantation.

DES therapy appears to provide the best protection from TVR and possibly death, as well.

Be mindful of occult or other evidence of incomplete stent expansion of the original stent
All stent strut malappositions are not created equal
Authors: Uretsky Barry F.
Published: February 2018

Key Points

The current meta‐analysis evaluates the relationship of late incomplete stent apposition (LISA) observed either by IVUS or OCT 6–18 months after PCI and long‐term outcomes, particularly in regard to stent thrombosis (ST) and has demonstrated a small but significant increase in ST with LISA.

The results of the current study do not apply to acute stent malapposition whose relevance to adverse outcomes is uncertain based on current evidence and a malapposition classification based on presence, length, and severity of malapposed struts.

A classification of stent malapposition based on cause of malapposition is proposed as a method to determine prognostic importance of acute incomplete stent apposition.
Risk stratification using lean body mass in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Hioki Hirofumi , Watanabe Yusuke , Kozuma Ken , Yamamoto Masanori , Naganuma Toru , Araki Motoharu , Tada Norio , Shirai Shinichi , Yamanaka Futoshi , Higashimori Akihiro , Mizutani Kazuki , Tabata Minoru , Takagi Kensuke , Ueno Hiroshi , Hayashida Kentaro ,   OCEAN‐TAVI Investigators
Published: February 2018

Background

The prognostic impact of skeletal muscle mass, assessed using lean body mass (LBM), remain unclear in patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The aim of this study to assess prognostic impact of LBM on mortality after TAVR.

Methods

We assessed 1,613 patients (median age 85 years, 70% female) who underwent TAVI from October 2013 to April 2016 using OCEAN (Optimized transCathEter vAlvular interveNtion)‐TAVI registry data. LBM was calculated using the James formula. The primary endpoint was all‐cause death after TAVR.

Results

Median follow‐up period was 287 days (interquartile range 110–462). The Kaplan‐Meier analysis demonstrated that patients with low LBM had significantly higher incidence of all‐cause death than those with high LBM in male (32.3% vs. 9.9%, log rank P < 0.001) and female (15.8% vs. 9.2%, log‐rank P = 0.011). On contrary, the risk stratification using body mass index (BMI) could not validate into female patients who underwent TAVR. The multivariate analysis showed that the LBM was an independent predictor of all‐cause death in male (Hazard ratio [HR] 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89–0.98) and female (HR 0.94; 95% CI 0.89–0.99). Inversely, the assessment using BMI could not identify the high‐risk population in a female.

Conclusions

The patients with low LBM had the higher incidence of all‐cause death after TAVR than those with high LBM, regardless of gender. Thus, the risk stratification using LBM might provide further insight to identify the high‐risk TAVR population, compared to conventional risk stratification using BMI.
Anisotropic Colloids: From Non‐Templated to Patchy Templated Synthesis
Authors: Liu Bing , Wu Yuanyuan , Zhao Shuping
Published: February 2018

Self‐assembly of colloidal particles is an important and challenging way to generate novel colloidal superstructures for new materials. Recent progress on syntheses of anisotropic colloids highlights opportunities for such self‐assembly, particularly in defining new non‐cubic superstructures. Both non‐templated and templated synthesis play an important role in preparing anisotropic colloidal particles. In this article, we briefly summarize recent progress in anisotropic colloids by non‐templated and conventional templated synthesis, and introduce a conceptual strategy of “patchy templated synthesis” that differs from the conventional approach. We illustrate this strategy with recent examples emanating from colloidal rings, and discuss the future opportunities with this strategy for the synthesis of other anisotropic colloids.
Distributed semi‐adaptive compressive sensing data collection in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Mehrjoo Saeed , Khunjush Farshad
Published: February 2018

Recently, many researches have been conducted to exploit the compressive sensing (CS) theory in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). One of the most important goals in CS is to prolong the lifetime of WSNs. But CS may suffer from some errors during the reconstruction phase. In addition, an adaptive version of CS named Bayesian compressive sensing has been studied to improve the reconstruction accuracy in WSNs. This paper investigates these adaptive methods and identifies their associated problems. Finally, a distributed and semi‐adaptive CS‐based data collection method is proposed. The proposed method tackles the aforementioned problems. Simulation results show that considering both lifetime and accuracy factors as a compound metric, the proposed method yields a 200% improvement compared with the Bayesian compressive sensing‐based method and outperforms other compared methods in the literature.
Compound mutations in Bmpr1a and Tak1 synergize facial deformities via increased cell death
Authors: Liu Xia , Hayano Satoru , Pan Haichun , Inagaki Maiko , Ninomiya‐Tsuji Jun , Sun Hongchen , Mishina Yuji
Published: February 2018

BMP signaling plays a critical role in craniofacial development. Augmentation of BMPR1A signaling through neural crest‐specific expression of constitutively active Bmpr1a (caBmpr1a) results in craniofacial deformities in mice. To investigate whether deletion of Tak1 may rescue the craniofacial deformities caused by enhanced Smad‐dependent signaling through caBMPR1A, we generated embryos to activate transcription of caBmpr1a transgene and ablate Tak1 in neural crest derivatives at the same time. We found that deformities of the double mutant mice showed more severe than those with each single mutation, including median facial cleft and cleft palate. We found higher levels of cell death in the medial nasal and the lateral nasal processes at E10.5 in association with higher levels of p53 in the double mutant embryos. We also found higher levels of pSmad1/5/9 in the lateral nasal processes at E10.5 in the double mutant embryos. Western analyses revealed that double mutant embryos showed similar degrees of upregulation of pSmad1/5/9 with caBmpr1a or Tak1‐cKO embryos while the double mutant embryos showed higher levels of phospho‐p38 than caBmpr1a or Tak1‐cKO embryos at E17.5, but not at E10.5. It suggested that deletion of Tak1 aggravates the craniofacial deformities of the caBmpr1a mutants by increasing p53 and phospho‐p38 at different stage of embryogenesis.
Tree vulnerability to climate change: improving exposure‐based assessments using traits as indicators of sensitivity
Authors: Aubin I. , Boisvert‐Marsh L. , Kebli H. , McKenney D. , Pedlar J. , Lawrence K. , Hogg E. H. , Boulanger Y. , Gauthier S. , Ste‐Marie C.
Published: February 2018

Projected changes in climate conditions vary widely across Canada's 350 M ha of forests, and so does the capacity of forest species to cope with these changes (sensitivity). Development and prioritization of adaptation strategies for sustainable forest management will depend on integrated assessments of relative stand vulnerability. We developed species‐specific indices of sensitivity to (1) drought‐induced mortality and (2) migration failure, based on traits for 22 of the most abundant tree species in Canada. By combining this information with stand composition data and spatially explicit climate change projections, we were able to map Canadian forest vulnerability to drought and migration failure. Our maps show forest vulnerability changing rapidly under a high carbon emission scenario (RCP 8.5) between short‐ (2011–2040), medium‐ (2041–2070), and long‐term projections (2071–2100). Several zones of special concern emerged based on the biomass involved, stand sensitivity, and vulnerability trends across time. Boreal forests in the central regions of Alberta and Saskatchewan appeared most vulnerable to drought‐induced mortality in the mid to long term. In the short term, distance to suitable habitat is projected to shift quickly along latitudinal gradients, particularly in Central Canada, while zones of vulnerability to migration failure appeared across the Rockies region in the long term as suitable conditions disappear from mountainous areas. This spatial assessment of vulnerability, which integrates species‐specific sensitivity, highlights important regional contrasts between vulnerability to drought (from high exposure, high proportion of sensitive species, or both) and to migration failure. By affecting either species’ ability to persist in place or to migrate, different climate change impacts can yield distinct biotic responses, with important implications for regional climate change adaptation strategies. Multi‐faceted vulnerability assessments, integrating both exposure and sensitivity indices specific to expected impacts of climate change, have the potential to provide crucial information to managers. We discuss some of these implications, explore the current limitations of our approach, and suggest a path forward.
Differential Effect of cis‐Eicosenoic Acid Positional Isomers on Adipogenesis and Lipid Accumulation in 3T3‐L1 Cells
Authors: Senarath Samanthika , Yoshinaga Kazuaki , Nagai Toshiharu , Yoshida Akihiko , Beppu Fumiaki , Gotoh Naohiro
Published: February 2018

Cis‐eicosenoic acid‐rich fish oil have shown beneficial health effects toward obesity‐related metabolic dysfunctions. Six bioavailable cis‐eicosenoic acid positional isomers (c‐20:1 PIs) are examined for their effects on adipogenesis and lipid accumulation using 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. Cells are cultured using experimental (c‐20:1 PIs‐added, 50 µM) or control (oleic acid (c9‐18:1, 50 µM) or no fatty acids) medium. The treatment of c‐20:1 PIs, significantly (p < 0.05) decreases the cellular triglyceride content compared to that of c9‐18:1. Cells absorbed c‐20:1 PIs at significantly (p < 0.05) different percentages and has altered the fatty acid metabolism. The c15‐20:1 comparatively down‐regulated the transcriptional factors for adipogenesis (peroxisome proliferative‐activated receptor gamma and CCCAT enhancer binding protein alpha) and lipogenesis (sterol regulatory element binding protein‐1); thus, show comparative anti‐adipogenic and anti‐lipogenic effect. In conclusion, c‐20:1 PIs affect differently on adipogenesis and lipid accumulation in 3T3‐L1 cells and the position of the double bond in c‐20:1 influences on their functionality.

Practical applications: The control of the adipogenesis and lipid accumulation in adipocytes via improving the composition of dietary fat is useful as a prevention measure for obesity and subsequent diseases. This study demonstrates the beneficial effect of cis‐eicosenoic acid (c‐20:1) positional isomers particularly c15‐20:1 in controlling the adipogenesis and subsequent lipid accumulation in adipocytes. Thus, food rich in 20:1 positional isomers, such as fish oil, plant seeds, and nuts are useful as functional foods for the prevention of obesity and could also use as effective weight loss supplements.

The effect of cis‐eicosenoic acid positional isomers (c‐20:1 PIs) on the adipogenesis and lipid accumulation is studied using 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes. Cells are cultured using experimental (c‐20:1 PIs‐added, 50 μM) or control (oleic acid (c9‐18:1, 50 μM) or no fatty acids) medium. The treatment of c‐20:1 PIs, particularly c15‐20:1 significantly (p < 0.05) decreases the cellular triglyceride content compared to that of c9‐18:1 and subsequently reduces the lipid accumulation in cells.
Coupling imaged capillary isoelectric focusing with mass spectrometry using a nanoliter valve
Authors: Montealegre Cristina , Neusüß Christian
Published: February 2018

Imaged capillary isoelectric focusing (iCIEF) is a powerful separation technique applied frequently for the analysis of biotherapeutics. However, direct mass spectrometric characterization is usually not possible. Here, focused peaks from an iCIEF system are transferred to a four‐port nanoliter valve where peaks of interest are cut and transferred directly (flow injection) or via capillary zone electrophoresis to electrospray mass spectrometry. At first, flow injection coupling was tested with a mixture of peptides showing intraday precision (RSD) of 20.0 and 3.4% in area and 15.2 and 6.3% in intensity for angiotensin I and leucine‐enkephalin, respectively. For the analysis of charge variants in an intact mAb, flow injection and CZE as second dimension were compared, demonstrating the usability of flow injection even for large proteins. However, improved spectra quality was achieved when CZE‐MS was applied. In this way, accurate masses were obtained not only for the main isoform, but also for the main acidic and basic variants. These results demonstrate the power of iCIEF‐CZE‐MS for the analysis of biotherapeutics.
Experimental testing and numerical modelling of a heavy timber moment‐resisting frame with ductile steel links
Authors: Gohlich Ryan , Erochko Jeffrey , Woods Joshua E.
Published: February 2018

This paper presents the development, experimental testing, and numerical modelling of a new hybrid timber‐steel moment‐resisting connection that is designed to improve the seismic performance of mid‐rise heavy timber moment‐resisting frames (MRF). The connection detail incorporates specially designed replaceable steel links fastened to timber beams and columns using self‐tapping screws. Performance of the connection is verified through experimental testing of four 2/3 scale beam‐column connections. All 4 connection specimens met the acceptance criteria specified in the AISC 341‐10 provisions for steel moment frames and exhibit high strength, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity up to storey drifts exceeding 4%. All of the timber members and self‐tapping screw connections achieved their design objective, remaining entirely elastic throughout all tests and avoiding brittle modes of failure. To assess the global seismic performance of the newly developed connection in a mid‐rise building, a hybrid timber‐steel building using the proposed moment‐resisting connection is designed and modelled in OpenSees. To compare the seismic performance of the hybrid MRF with a conventional steel MRF, a prototype steel‐only building is also designed and modelled in OpenSees. The building models are subject to a suite of ground motions at design basis earthquake and maximum credible earthquake hazard levels using non‐linear time history analysis. Analytical results show that drifts and accelerations of the hybrid building are similar to a conventional steel building while the foundation forces are significantly reduced for the hybrid structure because of its lower seismic weight. The results of the experimental program and numerical analysis demonstrate the seismic performance of the proposed connection and the ability of the hybrid building to achieve comparable seismic performance to a conventional steel MRF.
Tackling Obesity and Disease: The Culprit Is Sugar; the Response Is Legal Regulation
Authors: Gostin Lawrence O.
Published: February 2018

It is staggering to observe the new normal in America: 37.9 percent of adults are obese, and 70.7 percent are either obese or overweight. One out of every five minors is obese. The real tragedy, of course, is the disability, suffering, and early death that devastates families and communities. But all of society pays, with the annual medical cost estimated at $147 billion. The causal pathways are complex, but if we drill down, sugar is a deeply consequential pathway to obesity, and the single greatest dietary source is sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs). The copious amount of sugar in the American diet is no accident. Industry practices and regulatory failures have fueled this explosion. Yet there are sensible, effective interventions that would create the conditions for healthier behaviors. What are the key interventions, and how can we overcome the social, political, and constitutional roadblocks? Tobacco control offers a powerful model, suggesting that success requires a suite of interventions working in concert: labeling, warnings, taxation, portion sizes, product formulation, marketing restrictions, and bans in high‐risk settings such as schools and hospitals. Each intervention deserves detailed analysis, but I'm kick‐starting scholarly and policy conversation by systematically laying out the major legal tools.
What factors predict the passage of state‐level e‐cigarette regulations?
Authors: Maclean Johanna Catherine , Oney Melissa , Marti Joachim , Sindelar Jody
Published: February 2018

E‐cigarettes are controversial products. They may help addicted smokers to consume nicotine in a less harmful manner or to quit tobacco cigarettes entirely, but these products may also entice youth into smoking. This controversy complicates e‐cigarette regulation as any regulation may lead to health improvements for some populations, and health declines for other populations. Using data from 2007 to 2016, we examine factors that are plausibly linked with U.S. state e‐cigarette regulations. We find that less conservative states are more likely to regulate e‐cigarettes and that states with stronger tobacco lobbies are less likely to regulate e‐cigarettes. This information can help policymakers as they determine how best to promote public health through regulation.
Assessing health facility performance in Indonesia using the Pabón‐Lasso model and unit cost analysis of health services
Authors: Hafidz Firdaus , Ensor Tim , Tubeuf Sandy
Published: February 2018

Total health care costs have dramatically increased in Indonesia, and health facilities consume the largest share of health resources. This study aims to provide a better understanding of the characteristics of the best‐performing health facilities. We use 4 national Indonesian datasets for 2011 and analysed 200 hospitals and 95 health centres. We first apply the Pabón‐Lasso model to assess the relative performance of health facilities in terms of bed occupancy rate and the number of admissions per bed; the model gathers together health facilities into 4 sectors representing different levels of productivity. We then use a step‐down costing method to estimate the cost per outpatient visit, inpatient, and bed days in hospitals and health centres. We combined both ratio analysis and applied bivariate and multivariate analyses to identify the predictors of the best‐performing health facility; 37% of hospitals and 33% of health centres were located in the high‐performing sector of the Pabón‐Lasso model. The wide variation in unit costs across health facilities presented a basis for benchmarking and identifying relatively efficient units. Combining the unit cost analysis and Pabón‐Lasso model, we find that health facility performance is affected by both internal (size and capacity, financing, type of patients, ownership, accreditation status, and staff availability) and external factors (economic status, population education level, location, and population density). Our study demonstrates that it is feasible to identify the best‐performing health facilities and provides information about how to improve efficiency using simplistic methods.