bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐step method for the construction and start‐up of a fungal–bacterial biofilter for treating gaseous toluene
Authors: Zhai Jian , Jiang Chunhua , Long Chao
Published: January 2020

In this study, a two‐step method was applied to build and start up a fungal–bacterial biofilter. The reactor was built by controlling pH and adding an antibiotic based on a conventional biofilter. A low pH (5.9) and the addition of chloramphenicol were favorable for the construction of the fungal–bacterial biofilter. The results illustrated that it took only 15 days to complete the start‐up of the fungal–bacterial biofilter. The removal efficiency (RE) and the mineralization rate (MR) were 93.0% and 77.6%, respectively, at a toluene concentration of 1,000 ± 112 mg m−3 and an empty bed residence time (EBRT) of 45 s. The new method effectively overcomes the unstable performance and nonuniversality of such a reactor, which was constructed by inoculating a pure fungal culture into a bacterial biofilter. Removal performance comparison and PICRUSt analysis showed that the higher the relative abundance of benzoate degradation‐related genes in activated sludge is, the more suitable the sludge is for inoculation. The increase in toluene MR and the apparent morphology and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results of biofilms in the top layer of the fungal–bacterial biofilter suggest that the biofilter performance enhancement can be attributed to the ability of fungi to distribute toluene‐degrading bacteria.
A control volume finite element method for three‐dimensional three‐phase flows
Authors: Xie Zhihua , Pavlidis Dimitrios , Salinas Pablo , Pain Christopher C. , Matar Omar K.
Published: January 2020

A novel control volume finite element method with adaptive anisotropic unstructured meshes is presented for three‐dimensional three‐phase flows with interfacial tension. The numerical framework consists of a mixed control volume and finite element formulation with a new P1DG‐P2 elements (linear discontinuous velocity between elements and quadratic continuous pressure between elements). A “volume of fluid” type method is used for the interface capturing, which is based on compressive control volume advection and second‐order finite element methods. A force‐balanced continuum surface force model is employed for the interfacial tension on unstructured meshes. The interfacial tension coefficient decomposition method is also used to deal with interfacial tension pairings between different phases. Numerical examples of benchmark tests and the dynamics of three‐dimensional three‐phase rising bubble, and droplet impact are presented. The results are compared with the analytical solutions and previously published experimental data, demonstrating the capability of the present method.
Brain connectivity markers for the identification of effective contacts in subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation
Authors: Lin Hai , Na Peng , Zhang Doudou , Liu Jiali , Cai Xiaodong , Li Weiping
Published: January 2020

The clinical benefit of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease (PD) is relevant to the tracts adjacent to the stimulation site, but it remains unclear what connectivity pattern is associated with effective DBS. The aim of this study was to identify clinically effective electrode contacts on the basis of brain connectivity markers derived from diffusion tensor tractography. We reviewed 77 PD patients who underwent bilateral subthalamic nucleus DBS surgery. The patients were assigned into the training (n = 58) and validation (n = 19) groups. According to the therapeutic window size, all contacts were classified into effective and ineffective groups. The whole‐brain connectivity of each contact's volume of tissue activated was estimated using tractography with preoperative diffusion tensor data. Extracted connectivity features were put into an all‐relevant feature selection procedure within cross‐validation loops, to identify features with significant discriminative power for contact classification. A total of 616 contacts on 154 DBS leads were discriminated, with 388 and 228 contacts being classified as effective and ineffective ones, respectively. After the feature selection, the connectivity of contacts with the thalamus, pallidum, hippocampus, primary motor area, supplementary motor area and superior frontal gyrus was identified to significantly contribute to contact classification. Based on these relevant features, the random forest model constructed from the training group achieved an accuracy of 84.9% in the validation group, to discriminate effective contacts from the ineffective. Our findings advanced the understanding of the specific brain connectivity patterns associated with clinical effective electrode contacts, which potentially guided postoperative DBS programming.
Graphene oxide‐based two‐dimensional molecular brush for efficient removal of lead and copper ions from water media
Authors: Dong Yanjie , Sang Dashen , He Chengdong , Sheng Xinfeng , Lei Longwen
Published: January 2020

In this study, graphene oxide (GO)‐based two‐dimensional molecular brush was fabricated by grafting polyacrylamide onto GO nanosheets for efficient removal of Pb2+ and Cu2+ from water media. Owing to the rich oxygen and nitrogen functional groups in the composites, the synthetic GO two‐dimensional molecular brush can get the maximum adsorption capacity of 268.4 mg/g for Pb2+ and 127.2 mg/g for Cu2+, respectively. Moreover, the interspaces between the stacked two‐dimensional molecular brushes provide fast pathways for the diffusion of heavy metal ions. As a result, GO‐based two‐dimensional molecular brush can reach the adsorption equilibrium within 60 min. These results indicated that the synthetic GO‐based two‐dimensional molecular brush is a promising adsorbent to separate heavy metal ions from water media.
The modern‐day Odysseus: How mental health providers can better reintegrate modern warriors and mitigate suicide risk
Authors: Geraci Joseph , Murray Christopher , Kapil‐Pair K. Nidhi , Herrera Shaynna , Sokol Yosef , Cary Julianne , Landa Yulia , Goodman Marianne
Published: January 2020

During their return from combat, warriors from Greek mythology and Native American traditions received the support of “helpers” to guide the reintegration back into their communities or tribes. While the military provides our modern warriors (MWs), similar helpers, during their departure from their hometown and during their initiation into the military, there is a dearth of comparable help when MWs reintegrate back into their hometowns. We strive to assist mental health providers to serve as such helpers for MWs to shape their reintegration environment, enable MWs to meet their unique needs after exiting the military, ameliorate the MW suicide epidemic, and facilitate MWs to continue their next “mission” to serve and improve society with a newly forged MW identity, wisdom, and sense of purpose.
Botswana's HIV response: Policies, context, and future directions
Authors: Ramogola‐Masire Doreen , Poku Ohemaa , Mazhani Loeto , Ndwapi Ndwapi , Misra Supriya , Arscott‐Mills Tonya , Blank Lilo , Ho‐Foster Ari , Becker Timothy D. , Yang Lawrence
Published: January 2020

This brief report describes key periods in the history of the national public health response to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic in Botswana. It reveals the context leading to the development of HIV policies presently in place and current challenges that remain. The report concludes with opportunities for future directions, initiatives, and policy changes to reduce the high rates of HIV.
Translating evidence‐based parenting programs for primary care: Stakeholder recommendations for sustainable implementation
Authors: Berkel Cady , Rudo‐Stern Jenna , Abraczinskas Michelle , Wilson Charlton , Lokey Farah , Flanigan Emily , Villamar Juan A. , Dishion Thomas J. , Smith J. D.
Published: January 2020

Aims

To translate evidence‐based programs (EBP) for a new setting, attention must be given to the characteristics of the intervention and the local setting, as well as evidence that is compelling to decision‐makers. This paper describes the history of a partnership and stakeholder recommendations to inform the adaptation of an EBP for primary care.

Methods

We established a community advisory board (CAB) consisting of stakeholders with expertize in primary care delivery. A thematic analysis was conducted with fieldnotes and transcriptions from CAB meetings and regular meetings with participating clinics.

Results

We found that (a) parenting programs with a focus on behavioral and physical health are appropriate for this setting, (b) variability in the structure of primary care means implementation must be tailorable, and (c) financial and organizational outcomes are compelling for decision‐makers.

Conclusion

Factors related to the content and structure of evidence‐based programs are uniquely related to distinct implementation outcomes of interest to key stakeholders.
The role of Hippo signaling pathway and mechanotransduction in tuning embryoid body formation and differentiation
Authors: Barzegari Abolfazl , Gueguen Virginie , Omidi Yadollah , Ostadrahimi Alireza , Nouri Mohammad , Pavon‐Djavid Graciela
Published: January 2020

Embryoid bodies (EBs) are the three‐dimensional aggregates of pluripotent stem cells that are used as a model system for the in vitro differentiation. EBs mimic the early stages of embryogenesis and are considered as a potential biomimetic body in tuning the stem cell fate. Although EBs have a spheroid shape, they are not formed accidentally by the agglomeration of cells; they are formed by the deliberate and programmed aggregation of stem cells in a complex topological and biophysical microstructure instead. EBs could be programmed to promisingly differentiate into the desired germ layers with specific cell lineages, in response to intra‐ and extra‐biochemical and biomechanical signals. Hippo signaling and mechanotransduction are the key pathways in controlling the formation and differentiation of EBs. The activity of the Hippo pathway strongly relies on cell–cell junctions, cell polarity, cellular architecture, cellular metabolism, and mechanical cues in the surrounding microenvironment. Although the Hippo pathway was initially thought to limit the size of the organ by inhibiting the proliferation and the promotion of apoptosis, the evidence suggests that this pathway even regulates stem cell self‐renewal and differentiation. Considering the abovementioned explanations, the present study investigated the interplay of the Hippo signaling pathway, mechanotransduction, differentiation, and proliferation pathways to draw the molecular network involved in the control of EBs fate. In addition, this study highlighted several neglected critical parameters regarding EB formation, in the interplay with the Hippo core component involved in the promising differentiation.
LINC01410 promotes cell proliferation and migration of cholangiocarcinoma through modulating miR‐124‐3p/SMAD5 axis
Authors: Jiang Tao , Wang Chunlin , Zhu Yunxie , Han Huaxin
Published: January 2020

Background

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is generally associated with high incidence and poor prognosis. Nowadays, increasing experimental data demonstrate that long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) plays an indispensable role in tumor occurrence. Nevertheless, the specific mechanism of lncRNA is not clear in CCA.

Methods

The relative expressions of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs were detected by real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR). CCK8 and colony formation assays were applied to examine cell proliferation ability in CCA. Transwell assay was conducted to measure the migration and invasion capabilities of CCA cells. Nuclear and cytoplasmic separation assay was implemented to figure out the location of LINC01410. Luciferase reporter assay, RIP and RNA pull‐down assays were applied to certify the molecular bindings. Western blot was applied to detect the protein level.

Results

The high expression of LINC01410 was proved in CCA tissues and CCA cell lines. Also, CCA patients with high LINC01410 level presented poor prognosis. LINC01410 deficiency impeded cell proliferation, migration and invasion in HuCCT1 and RBE cell lines. What's more, LINC01410 interacted with miR‐124‐3p. Meanwhile, SMAD5 targeted and inhibited by miR‐124‐3p. SMAD5 expression was enhanced by LINC01410.

Conclusion

LINC01410 facilitates cell proliferation, migration and invasion through miR‐124‐3p/SMAD5 axis.
Regional Myocardial Remodeling Characteristics Correlates With Cardiac Events in Sarcoidosis
Authors: Lu Chenying , Chen Jian , Suksaranjit Promporn , Menda Yusuf , Adhaduk Mehul , Jayanna Manju B. , Scalzetti Ernest , Ji Jiansong , Wei Tiemin , Feiglin David , Liu Kan
Published: January 2020

Background

The poor prognosis of cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) underscores the need for risk stratification.

Purpose

To investigate the prognostic significance of ventricular/myocardial remodeling features in sarcoidosis.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

In all, 132 biopsy‐proven sarcoidosis patients imaged from 2008 to 2018. The primary endpoint was a composite of cardiac mortality, new onset arrhythmias, hospitalization for heart failure, and device implantation.

Field Strength/Sequence

No field strength or sequence restrictions.

Assessment

Global and regional ventricular/myocardial remodeling features were assessed by standard volumetric measurements and automated function imaging postprocessing analysis.

Statistical Tests

Student's t‐test or Mann–Whitney test (chi2 test or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables) were used for comparisons. Cox‐proportional hazards regression model, univariate /multivariate analyses, and receiver operating characteristic were performed to relate clinical/lab data, imaging parameters to the endpoints.

Results

Over a median follow‐up of 40.7 (interquartile range 18.8–60.5) months, 41 (31.1%) patients developed adverse cardiac events. Abnormal left ventricular (LV) geometric remodeling alterations (measured by LV mass index and relative wall thickness) occurred 3.66‐fold more frequently in patients with endpoints than patients without. The ratio of patients with endpoints increased as ventricular remodeling phenotype progressed. In patients with endpoints, regional myocardial wall thickness (RMWT) was significantly (P = 0.022) increased in six clustered LV segments located in the middle interventricular septum and basal/middle anterolateral walls. In all of the abnormal ventricular remodeling stages, patients with endpoints constantly had higher mean RMWT than those without. Among clinical, electrocardiographic, and imaging parameters, LV mass index (hazard ratio [HR] 1.010 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.002–1.018, P = 0.017) and mean RMWT (HR 3.482 95% CI 1.679–7.223, P = 0.001) were independently associated with endpoints. Sarcoidosis patients without this RMWT distribution pattern were significantly (P < 0.001) more likely to be free of the occurrence of subsequent cardiac events.

Data Conclusion

Regional myocardial remodeling characteristics are associated with subsequent adverse cardiac events in sarcoidosis.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:499–509.
Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping: Technical Considerations and Clinical Applications in Neuroimaging
Authors: Vinayagamani Selvadasan , Sheelakumari R , Sabarish Sekar , Senthilvelan Santhakumar , Ros Roopa , Thomas Bejoy , Kesavadas Chandrasekharan
Published: January 2020

Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) is a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique for quantifying the spatial distribution of magnetic susceptibility within an object or tissue. Recently, QSM has been widely used to study various dominant magnetic susceptibility sources in the brain, including iron and calcium. In addition, the method enables mapping of the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen, which could act as a new metabolic biomarker for diseases that involve disruption of the brain's oxygen supply. Thus, the clinical applications of QSM are wide‐reaching and hold great promise as imaging biomarkers for studying several neurological diseases. This review aims to summarize the physical concepts and potential clinical applications of QSM in neuroimaging.

Evidence Level

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Conversion of atrial fibrillation to sinus rhythm during cryoballoon ablation: A favorable and not unusual phenomenon during second‐generation cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Maj Riccardo , Borio Gianluca , Osório Thiago G. , Iacopino Saverio , Ströker Erwin , Sieira Juan , Terasawa Muryo , Rizzo Alessandro , Scala Oriana , Galli Alessio , Varnavas Varnavas , Paparella Gaetano , Capulzini Lucio , Brugada Pedro , De Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian B.
Published: January 2020

Background

The prevalence and the clinical impact of conversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm (SR) during cryoballoon ablation (CB‐A) are unknown.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of restoration of SR during CB‐A and the clinical impact of this phenomenon.

Methods

Between January 2012 and September 2018, all patients who experienced conversion of AF to SR during CB‐A were included. This group was subsequently matched for gender, age, type of AF, diagnosis‐to‐ablation time, and left atrial size with patients who underwent CB‐A and did not experienced conversion of AF to SR. After discharge, patients were scheduled for follow‐up visits at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months and 24 hours Holter recordings were obtained at each follow‐up visit. All documented AF episodes of >30 seconds were considered as recurrence. A 3 month post‐procedural blanking period (BP) was applied.

Results

A total of 1559 patients underwent pulmonary veins isolation by CB‐A between January 2012 and September 2018; among them, 58 patients (3.7%) experienced restoration of SR during CB‐A. In total, 53 patients (41 males [77.3%], mean age 61.4 ± 13.3 years) were included in the case group. During CB‐A, restoration of SR occurred more frequently during right‐side PVs applications (right inferior pulmonary vein 39.6%, right superior pulmonary vein 30.2%). If considering a BP, at 2 year follow‐up, freedom from recurrences was 86.5% in the case group and 68.0% in the control group (P = .036).

Conclusion

Conversion of AF to SR is a favorable and relatively frequent phenomenon during cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation ablation.
Does hipec improve outcomes in gastric cancer patients treated with perioperative chemotherapy and radical surgery? A propensity‐score matched analysis
Authors: Diniz Thiago Pereira , da Costa Wilson L. , Fonseca de Jesus Victor Hugo , Ribeiro Héber S. C. , Diniz Alessandro L. , de Godoy André Luís , de Farias Igor Correia , Torres Silvio Melo , Felismino Tiago C. , Coimbra Felipe Jose Fernandez
Published: January 2020

Background

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been associated with improved survival when compared with surgery alone for non‐metastatic gastric cancer patients in randomized trials and meta‐analyses. However, little evidence is available regarding the use of HIPEC in nonmetastatic patients who are treated with perioperative chemotherapy and radical surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the putative survival benefit of HIPEC in the subgroup of gastric cancer patients treated with perioperative chemotherapy and surgery.

Patients and Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study that included gastroesophageal junction and gastric cancer patients who were treated with perioperative chemotherapy and curative resection in a single cancer center in the period between 2006 and 2017. In this time period, younger patients with diffuse‐type tumors and serosa invasion or positive lymph node disease were often offered an adjuvant HIPEC protocol. This study compared the survival outcomes of these patients to the ones of those who received only perioperative chemotherapy and resection. A 2:1 propensity‐score matched analysis for the two groups was also performed, and variables used were postchemotherapy T (ypT) and N (ypN) stages, histology and tumor site.

Results

The study population comprised 269 subjects, 241 treated with chemotherapy and surgery and 28 who also received HIPEC. The mean age was 59 years old (standard deviation: 12.2) and 60% of all individuals were male. A total gastrectomy was performed in 137 patients and a distal resection in 132, with a D2‐lymphadenectomy in 97.4% of the sample. Overall 60‐day morbidity and mortality rates were 35.3% and 3.3%, respectively. In the HIPEC group, patients were younger, and more frequently had American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) 1 to 2 classification, tumors located in the gastric body, had diffuse histology, and ypN+ disease. Overall survival (OS; 5 years) results in the HIPEC and no HIPEC group were 59.5% vs 68.7% (P = .453), and disease‐free survival (DFS) ones were 49.5% and 65.8% (P = .060), respectively. In the multivariable Cox regression model, ypT and ypN were independent overall and DFS predictors; also, ASA 3 to 4 classification and diffuse histology were associated with worse OS. In the matched analysis, HIPEC did not improve either overall (53.5% vs 59.5%; P = .517) or DFS (50.0% vs 49.5%; P = .993).

Conclusion

Treatment with HIPEC in patients who received perioperative chemotherapy and a D2‐resection did not improve survival outcomes. Both ypT and ypN stages remained as the most important survival predictors in this cohort.
Clinical and Neuropathological Features Associated With Loss of RAB39B
Authors: Gao Yujing , Martínez‐Cerdeño Verónica , Hogan Kirk J. , McLean Catriona A. , Lockhart Paul J.
Published: January 2020

Background

Pathogenic variants in the small GTPase Ras Analogue in Brain 39b (RAB39B) have been linked to the development of early‐onset parkinsonism. The study was aimed at delineating the clinical and neuropathological features associated with a previously reported pathogenic variant in RAB39B (c.503C>A p.T168K) and testing for dysregulation of RAB39B in idiopathic PD.

Methods

Clinical details of a male individual hemizygous for the T168K variant were collected by systematic review of medical records. Neuropathological studies of fixed brain tissue were performed and steady‐state RAB39B levels were determined by western blot analysis.

Results

Neuropathological examination showed extensive dopaminergic neuron loss, widespread Lewy pathology, and iron accumulation in the substantia nigra. Additional pathology was observed in the hippocampus and thalamus. Western blot analysis demonstrated that the T168K variant results in loss of RAB39B. In individuals with idiopathic PD (n = 10, 6 male/4 female), steady‐state RAB39B was significantly reduced in the prefrontal cortex and substantia nigra.

Conclusions

T168K RAB39B is unstable in vivo and associated with dopaminergic neuron loss and Lewy pathology. Dysregulation of RAB39B in the prefrontal cortex and substantia nigra of individuals with idiopathic PD potentially implicates the protein more broadly in the pathological mechanisms underlying PD and related Lewy body disorders. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
The Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale
Authors: Piot Ines , Schweyer Kerstin , Respondek Gesine , Stamelou Maria ,   DescribePSP study group,   ProPSP study group,   MDS‐endorsed PSP study group, Sckopke Philipp , Schenk Thomas , Goetz Christopher G. , Stebbins Glenn T. , Höglinger Günter U.
Published: January 2020

Background

There is currently no undisputed, validated, clinically meaningful measure for deficits in the broad spectrum of PSP phenotypes.

Objective

To develop a scale to monitor clinical deficits in patients with PSP across its broad phenotypes.

Methods

The Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale was conceptualized to cover seven clinical domains (Akinesia‐rigidity, Bradyphrenia, Communication, Dysphagia, Eye movements, Finger dexterity, and Gait & balance), each scored from 0 to 3 (no, mild, moderate, or severe deficits). User guidelines were developed to standardize its application. Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale scores were collected in patients fulfilling the MDS‐PSP diagnostic criteria in two independent, multicenter, observational studies, both cross‐sectionally (exploratory DescribePSP cohort; confirmatory ProPSP cohort) and longitudinally (12‐months’ follow‐up, both cohorts).

Results

Cognitive pretesting demonstrated easy scale utility. In total, 164 patients were scored (70.4 ± 7.6 years; 62% males, 35% variant phenotypes). Mean Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale completion time was 4 minutes. The Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale total score correlated with existing scales (e.g., Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Rating Scale: R = 0.88; P < 0.001). Individual Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale items correlated well with similar constructs in existing scales. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.75), inter‐rater reliability (0.96), and test‐retest stability (0.99) were acceptable. The PSP‐CDS showed significant 12‐month change (baseline, 8.6 ± 3.6; follow‐up: 10.8 ± 3.6; annualized difference: 3.4 ± 3.4; n = 49; P < 0.0001). Sample sizes required per arm for a two‐arm, 1‐year follow‐up therapeutic trial to detect 50% change in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale progression was estimated to be 65 (two‐sided, two‐sample t test).

Conclusion

The Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Clinical Deficits Scale is a rapidly completed, clinimetrically sound scale for clinical care and research involving PSP. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Rand: More than half in LA County MH unit could be diverted
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2020

More than half of the individuals in the Los Angeles County jail mental health population are considered appropriate candidates for community‐based clinical services rather than incarceration, according to new research by the Rand Corporation.
APA testifies to Congress about cannabis research concerns
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2020

Congress should streamline the cumbersome, redundant and unnecessary regulations surrounding research on cannabis, making it easier for psychologists to continue studying its beneficial uses and developing effective treatments for its abuse, according to a news release put out by the American Psychological Association (APA) Jan. 15.
Existence and uniqueness for ψ‐Hilfer fractional differential equation with nonlocal multi‐point condition
Authors: Borisut Piyachat , Kumam Poom , Ahmed Idris , Jirakitpuwapat Wachirapong
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study and investigate the ψ−Hilfer fractional differential equation with nonlocal multi‐point condition of the form:

where
,
, i=1,2,...,m, −∞<a<b<∞,
is the ψ− Hilfer fractional derivative,
is a continuous function, and
is the ψ‐Riemann‐Liouville fractional integral of order 1−r. By using Schaefer's and Banach fixed point theorems, we prove the existence, uniqueness, and stability analysis of this problem. An example is given to illustrate the applicability of our results.
Efficient one‐step leapfrog ADI‐FDTD for far‐field scattering calculation of lossy media
Authors: Zou Bin , Liu Shuo , Zhang Lamei , Ren Shulei
Published: January 2020

Free from the Courant‐Friedrichs‐Lewy (CFL) stability condition and sub‐step computations, the one‐step leapfrog alternative‐direction‐implicit finite‐difference time‐domain (ADI‐FDTD) method is very efficient in dealing with fine grid problems. In this letter, a one‐step leapfrog ADI‐FDTD method for three‐dimensional far‐field scattering simulation method for lossy media is proposed. A novel total field/scattering field (TF/SF) implementation is derived for the one‐step leapfrog ADI‐FDTD, providing the computational flexibility in far‐field electromagnetic (EM) scattering calculation. The auxiliary matrices are introduced to further improve its efficiency for lossy media. The simulation results show that there is a good agreement between the proposed one‐step leapfrog ADI‐FDTD method and Yee's FDTD in solving the far‐field scattering problem and benefits in performance were encountered when using the proposed method.
Exact penalty functions for optimal control problems II: Exact penalization of terminal and pointwise state constraints
Authors: Dolgopolik M. V.
Published: January 2020

The second part of our study is devoted to an analysis of the exactness of penalty functions for optimal control problems with terminal and pointwise state constraints. We demonstrate that with the use of the exact penalty function method one can reduce fixed‐endpoint problems for linear time‐varying systems and linear evolution equations with convex constraints on the control inputs to completely equivalent free‐endpoint optimal control problems, if the terminal state belongs to the relative interior of the reachable set. In the nonlinear case, we prove that a local reduction of fixed‐endpoint and variable‐endpoint problems to equivalent free‐endpoint ones is possible under the assumption that the linearized system is completely controllable, and point out some general properties of nonlinear systems under which a global reduction to equivalent free‐endpoint problems can be achieved. In the case of problems with pointwise state inequality constraints, we prove that such problems for linear time‐varying systems and linear evolution equations with convex state constraints can be reduced to equivalent problems without state constraints, provided one uses the L∞ penalty term, and Slater's condition holds true, while for nonlinear systems a local reduction is possible, if a natural constraint qualification is satisfied. Finally, we show that the exact Lp‐penalization of state constraints with finite p is possible for convex problems, if Lagrange multipliers corresponding to the state constraints belong to Lp′, where p′ is the conjugate exponent of p, and for general nonlinear problems, if the cost functional does not depend on the control inputs explicitly.
Consequences of an Anti‐Corruption Experiment for Local Government Performance in Brazil
Authors: Funk Kendall D. , Owen Erica
Published: January 2020

Decentralization reforms, implemented to improve efficiency and service provision, pose a challenge for federal governments that would like to ensure that federal resources are used appropriately by local governments. To overcome this challenge, some federal governments have implemented costly oversight programs aimed at improving municipal governance. For instance, in 2003, the Brazilian federal government introduced a randomized auditing program with the goal of improving municipal performance by exposing episodes of corruption and mismanagement. Yet, we know little about whether these types of programs actually lead to improvements in local outcomes, especially in terms of service delivery. We argue that audits provide opportunities for learning that should improve performance outcomes. To test this argument, we examine municipal performance in over 5,000 Brazilian municipalities from 2001 to 2012. We utilize the random assignment of audits and estimate difference‐in‐differences regressions. We find that audited municipalities experience greater improvements in performance overall compared to unaudited municipalities, though the effect size is modest. We also find evidence that the auditing program indirectly improves municipal performance. These results indicate that top‐down oversight programs, such as the Brazilian one, are useful not only for improving transparency and accountability, but also for the provision of public services as well.
Preparation and characterization of ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene composites with high content of multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: Li Anqi , Wu Zexiong , Zhang Zishou , Mai Kancheng
Published: January 2020

In order to obtain the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) composites with high conductivity and mechanical property, an effective route of solution mixing and followed by hot‐pressing was investigated for UHMWPE composites with high content of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). The effect of MWCNT contents on the crystallization and melting behavior, crystal structure, electrical conductivity, and mechanical properties of MWCNT/UHMWPE composites was characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, four‐probe measurement configuration, X‐ray diffraction, and universal testing machine, respectively. The effect of MWCNTs on crystallization temperatures of UHMWPE is discussed by the heterogeneous nucleation of MWCNTs and the restriction of the macromolecular chain motion of UHMWPE by MWCNTs. The electrical conductivity of UHMWPE is significantly increased with increasing of MWCNT contents and the UHMWPE composite with the conductivity of 5649 S m−1 can be obtained at the MWCNT content of 60 wt%. The influence of MWCNTs on tensile strength and modulus of UHMWPE composites is explained by the reinforce effect of MWCNTs and the lower content of UHMWPE not enough to support the structure of composites.
Green chemistry mediated synthesis of cadmium sulphide/polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposites: Assessment of microstructural, thermal, and dielectric properties
Authors: Reddy Peram Lokanatha , Deshmukh Kalim , Kovářík Tomáš , Nambiraj Narayanasamy Arunai , Shaik Khadheer Pasha
Published: January 2020

In the present study, a green synthesis approach has been employed to prepare cadmium sulphide nanoparticles (CdS NPs). The prepared CdS NPs were used as nanofiller (0‐3 wt%) to produce polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/CdS nanocomposite films via solution casting technique. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy were employed to investigate various properties of PVA/CdS nanocomposite films. An enhancement in the structural, thermal, and morphological properties of the PVA/CdS nanocomposite films was noticed confirming the successful incorporation of CdS NPs in the PVA matrix and good interaction between the polymer and the nanofiller. Further, an impedance analyzer was employed to evaluate dielectric properties of the PVA/CdS nanocomposite films at various frequencies (50 Hz‐1 MHz) and temperatures (40°C‐140°C). The dielectric constant (ε) and dielectric loss (tanδ) values of PVA/CdS nanocomposite films loaded with 3 wt% of CdS NPs were found to be 423.71 and 4.18, respectively, at 50 Hz and at 140°C. An improvement in the dielectric properties evidenced the homogeneous distribution of CdS NPs within the PVA matrix making the nanocomposite films useful for electrical charge storage devices.
Experimental and theoretical investigation of linear and nonlinear optical properties of ethyl‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐napthoate azo dyes by solvatochromic, computational aspects, and Z‐scan technique
Authors: Yadav Sagar B. , Taware Sohan , Sreenath Mavila C. , Chitrambalam Subramaniyan , Joe Isaac H. , Sekar Nagaiyan
Published: January 2020

To investigate the effect of substituents in azo dyes on their nonlinear optical properties, four azo dyes were synthesized using ethyl‐3‐hydroxy‐2‐naphthoate as a coupler and characterized. The polarizability (α) and hyperpolarizability (β and γ) constants were determined by using solvatochromic and computational method. A group of global hybrid and range seperated hybrid functionals having different Hartree‐Fock exchange percentage were used to evaluate the NLO properties. The functional ωB97 and ωB97XD performed better in the determination of polarizability (α) and hyperpolarizability (β and γ), respectively. The observed results for polarizability and hyperpolarizability parameters were supported by highest occupied molecular orbital‐lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO‐LUMO) energy gap, Hammett‐coefficient (σ), excited‐state coefficients (σex), and hyper‐hardness (Γ) values. Third‐order NLO properties were analyzed by using Z‐scan technique. The –OCH3 substituted dye 4d shows higher value of molecular susceptibility (χ(3)), polarizability (α), and hyperpolarizability (β and γ) parameters among the studied azo dyes. They are likely to have the potential applications in optoelectronics and photonics.
Metered‐dose inhalers vs nebulization for the delivery of albuterol in pediatric asthma exacerbations: A cost‐effectiveness analysis in a middle‐income country
Authors: Rodriguez‐Martinez Carlos E. , Sossa‐Briceño Monica P. , Castro‐Rodriguez Jose A.
Published: January 2020

Objectives

Although the benefits of albuterol delivered via metered‐dose inhalers with a spacer (MDI+S) have been increasingly recognized, the evidence regarding the cost‐effectiveness of MDI+S compared to nebulization (NEB) is not sufficient, especially in less‐affluent countries, where the clinical and economic burden of the disease is the greatest. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of MDI+S vs NEB for delivering albuterol for the treatment of pediatric asthma exacerbations.

Methods

A decision‐analysis model was developed to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of MDI+S vs NEB for delivering albuterol for the treatment of pediatric asthma exacerbations. Effectiveness parameters were obtained from a systematic review of the literature. Cost data were obtained from hospital bills and from the national manual of drug prices in Colombia. The study was carried out from the perspective of the national healthcare system in Colombia, a middle‐income country (MIC). The main outcome of the model was the avoidance of hospital admission.

Results

For the base‐case analysis, the model showed that compared to NEB, using MDI+S for the delivery of albuterol was associated with lower total costs (US$96.68 vs US$121.41 average cost per patient) and a higher probability of hospital admission avoided (0.9219 vs 0.8900), thus leading to dominance.

Conclusions

This study shows that in Colombia, an MIC, compared with NEB, the use of MDI+S for delivering albuterol for the treatment of pediatric asthma exacerbations is the preferred strategy because it is associated with a lower probability of hospital admission at lower total treatment costs.
Assessment of contribution of BCRP to intestinal absorption of various drugs using portal‐systemic blood concentration difference model in mice
Authors: Kawahara Iichiro , Nishikawa Satoyo , Yamamoto Akira , Kono Yusuke , Fujita Takuya
Published: January 2020

Prediction of the intestinal absorption of new chemical entities (NCEs) is still difficult, in part because drug efflux transporters, including breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP) and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), restrict their intestinal permeability. We have demonstrated that the absorptive quotient (AQ) obtained from the in vitro Caco‐2 permeability study would be a valuable parameter for estimating the impact of BCRP on the intestinal absorption of drugs. In this study, in order to assess the correlation between the in vitro AQ for BCRP and in vivo contribution of BCRP on drug absorption, we evaluated the oral absorption of various compounds by portal‐systemic blood concentration (P‐S) difference method in wild‐type (WT), Bcrp(−/−), and Mdr1a/1b(−/−) mice. In addition, we also calculated a rate of BCRP contribution (Rbcrp). Ciprofloxacin and nitrofurantoin showed the low Rbcrp value (0.05 and 0.15), and their apparent fractions of intestinal absorption in WT mice were 46.5% and 63.7%, respectively. These results suggest that BCRP hardly affects their intestinal absorption in mice. On the other hand, the apparent fraction of intestinal absorption of topotecan and sulfasalazine was significantly lower in WT mice than in Bcrp(−/−) mice. Moreover, their Rbcrp values were 0.42 and 0.79, respectively, indicating the high contribution of BCRP to their oral absorption. Furthermore, in vivo Rbcrp calculated in this study was almost comparable to in vitro AQ obtained from Caco‐2 permeability study. This study provides useful concepts in assessing the contribution of BCRP on intestinal absorption in drug discovery and development process.
Potential targets for controlling Bactrocera dorsalis using cuticle‐ and hormone‐related genes revealed by a developmental transcriptome analysis
Authors: Liu Shi‐Huo , Xia Ying‐Dan , Zhang Qiang , Li Wei , Li Run‐Yan , Liu Yi , Chen Er‐Hu , Dou Wei , Stelinski Lukasz L , Wang Jin‐Jun
Published: January 2020

BACKGROUND

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), is an important agricultural pest and has developed resistance to many insecticides. To investigate vital genes participating in metamorphosis for development of additional control strategies, a comprehensive transcriptome analysis covering ten developmental stages of B. dorsalis was performed.

RESULTS

There were 2132, 952, 1062, 2301 and 1333 differentially expressed genes identified during hatching, 1st‐instar larval molting, 2nd‐instar larval molting, pupariation and emergence, respectively. Further expression analyses indicated that genes in hormone‐ (20‐hydroxyecdysone and juvenile hormone) and cuticle‐ (chitin and cuticle protein) related pathways were essential for metamorphosis in B. dorsalis. Among chitinase (Cht) genes, BdCht‐5, −8 and −10 were differentially expressed during larval–larval, larval–pupal and pupal–adult moltings. However, BdCht7 was differentially expressed during egg–larval and larval–larval moltings. Knockdown of BdCht7 at the 1st‐instar larval stage disrupted normal development of larvae and was lethal to B. dorsalis. Among cuticle protein (CP) genes, 15 genes (BdCPLCG‐1, BdCPLCP‐2, BdCPAP1‐B2, BdRR1‐21, BdRR1‐31, BdRR2‐15, BdRR2‐26, BdRR2‐30, BdRR2‐32, BdTweedle‐9, BdTweedle‐24, BdRR2‐10, BdCPAP3‐C1, BdRR1‐34 and BdRR1‐41) were differentially expressed during four of five types of moltings. Among hormone‐relative genes, BdJHBP‐4, −9 and −13 were differentially expressed during all five types of moltings, whereas BdJHBP‐5, −12 and BdHR4 were differentially expressed during four of five types of moltings.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals critical genes involved in development and metamorphosis of B. dorsaslis, and BdCht7 is dispensable for larval survival. It also provides comprehensive transcriptome information for finding more molecular targets to control this pest. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Response of the Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation to a warming climate in global climate models
Authors: Richter Jadwiga H. , Butchart Neal , Kawatani Yoshio , Bushell Andrew C. , Holt Laura , Serva Federico , Anstey James , Simpson Isla R. , Osprey Scott , Hamilton Kevin , Braesicke Peter , Cagnazzo Chiara , Chen Chih‐Chieh , Garcia Rolando R. , Gray Lesley J. , Kerzenmacher Tobias , Lott Francois , McLandress Charles , Naoe Hiroaki , Scinocca John , Stockdale Timothy N. , Versick Stefan , Watanabe Shingo , Yoshida Kohei , Yukimoto Seiji
Published: January 2020

We compare the response of the Quasi‐Biennial Oscillation (QBO) to a warming climate in eleven atmosphere general circulation models that performed time‐slice simulations for present‐day, doubled, and quadrupled CO2 climates. No consistency was found among the models for the QBO period response, with the period decreasing by 8 months in some models and lengthening by up to 13 months in others in the doubled CO2 simulations. In the quadrupled CO2 simulations, a reduction in QBO period of 14 months was found in some models, whereas in several others the tropical oscillation no longer resembled the present‐day QBO, although it could still be identified in the deseasonalized zonal mean zonal wind timeseries. In contrast, all the models projected a decrease in the QBO amplitude in a warmer climate with the largest relative decrease near 60 hPa. In simulations with doubled and quadrupled CO2, the multi‐model mean QBO amplitudes decreased by 36 and 51%, respectively. Across the models the differences in the QBO period response were most strongly related to how the gravity wave momentum flux entering the stratosphere and tropical vertical residual velocity responded to the increases in CO2 amounts. Likewise it was found that the robust decrease in QBO amplitudes was correlated across the models to changes in vertical residual velocity, parametrized gravity wave momentum fluxes, and to some degree the resolved upward wave flux. We argue that uncertainty in the representation of the parameterized gravity waves is the most likely cause of the spread among the eleven models in the QBO's response to climate change.
Exponential synchronization and state estimation of inertial quaternion‐valued Cohen‐Grossberg neural networks: Lexicographical order method
Authors: Wei Hongzhi , Wu Baowei , Tu Zhengwen
Published: January 2020

This paper addresses the problems of synchronization and state estimation for a class of inertial quaternion‐valued Cohen‐Grossberg neural networks. By means of proper control strategy, sufficient conditions are derived for ascertaining exponential synchronization of quaternion‐valued Cohen‐Grossberg neural networks. Subsequently, the state estimation problem has also been augmented to achieve robust stable performance of the estimation error system. What should be mentioned is that, the system states considered in this paper are taking values in an interval, which implies that the states are varying between two different quaternions, thus, an optimal algorithm (lexicographical order method) is employed, which can be used to determine the “magnitude" of two different quaternions. In this case, the interval proposed by the quaternion‐valued is meaningful. Finally, numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the derived theoretical results.
Effects of Carbonization Conditions on Structure and Gas Adsorption of Carbon Membranes Derived from Polyvinyl Chloride
Authors: Xu Beiyu , Zhao Xinpeng , Chen Hao , Su Shengpei , Yu Haibin
Published: January 2020

Carbon membranes were fabricated through the pre‐oxidation and pyrolysis of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Their chemical composition and structure morphology were characterized using FTIR, SEM and XRD; their CO2 and N2 adsorption isotherms were measured at 25 °C. The experimental results showed that heating rate and holding time have great influences on the pore structure during the pre‐oxidation process as well as the carbonization process. The pore structure of the carbon membrane is also influenced by carbonization temperature. The carbon membrane obtained at 700 °C has the largest CO2 adsorption capacity of 1.45 mmol/g at 101 kPa. The carbon membrane prepared at heating rate of 3 °C/min and holding time of 0.5 h at 800 °C displayed an excellent adsorption selectivity of CO2 over N2 evidenced by the fact that its CO2 adsorption capacity could reach 1.1 mmol/g and while it does not significantly adsorb N2.