bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NK cell frequency and cytotoxicity in correlation to pregnancy outcome and response to IVIG therapy among women with recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Ahmadi Majid , Ghaebi Mahnaz , Abdolmohammadi‐Vahid Samaneh , Abbaspour‐Aghdam Sanaz , Hamdi Kobra , Abdollahi‐Fard Sedigheh , Danaii Shahla , Mosapour Parisa , Koushaeian Ladan , Dolati Sanam , Rikhtegar Reza , Oskouei Farnaz Dabiri , Aghebati‐Maleki Leili , Nouri Mohammad , Yousefi Mehdi
Published: October 2018

Background

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) has a multifactorial etiology mainly due to chromosomal abnormalities and immunological factors. Treating RM has remained to be a challenging issue and the role of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) in treating RM is still controversial.

Materials and Methods

This study aimed to evaluate the changes in natural killer (NK) cells’ frequency and cytotoxicity in patients with RM who received the IVIG therapy. A total of 78 women with a history of three or more recurrent miscarriages were included and their peripheral blood was drawn in case of positive pregnancy test. On the same date, 400 mg/kg of IVIG was administrated intravenously in 38 women and it continued every four weeks through weeks 30–32 of gestation. The remaining 40 patients with RM were included to be the untreated control group. Then, the effects of IVIG on NK cell frequency, cytotoxic activity, and the expression of inhibitory and activating receptors in the patients with RM, pre and posttreatment were assessed.

Results

NK cells percentage and cytotoxicity were significantly reduced in the IVIG‐treated patients after 32 weeks of gestation (p < 0.0001). Expression levels of inhibitory receptors was increased, however, the expression levels of activating receptors were significantly decreased after the IVIG therapy. Pregnancy outcome after the treatment was significantly higher (86.8%) in the IVIG‐treated patients than controls (45%;
p = 0.0006).

Conclusion

Our results suggested that women with RM may benefit from IVIG as a therapeutic approach and the frequency and functional status of peripheral NK cells may serve as a valuable predictive factor of therapy response.
Hypermethylation of ITGBL1 is associated with poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lian Xin‐Yue , Ma Ji‐Chun , Zhou Jing‐Dong , Zhang Ting‐Juan , Wu De‐Hong , Deng Zhao‐Qun , Zhang Zhi‐Hui , Li Xi‐Xi , He Pin‐Fang , Yan Yang , Lin Jiang , Qian Jun
Published: October 2018

The current study was aimed to investigate integrin beta‐like 1 (ITGBL1) methylation pattern and its clinical relevance in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Real‐time methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR; RQ‐MSP) and bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP) were performed to detect the methylation of ITGBL1 promoter. Real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) was performed to analyze ITGBL1 transcript level. The results showed that ITGBL1 methylation level in 131 patients with AML was significantly higher than 29 controls (p < 0.001). The ITGBL1‐hypermethylated group tended to have a higher bone marrow (BM) blasts (
p = 0.076). Meanwhile, ITGBL1‐hypermethylated patients tended to have a lower complete remission (CR) rate (
p = 0.102). ITGBL1‐hypermethylated patients had significantly shorter overall survival (OS) and leukemia‐free survival (LFS) than ITGBL1 hypomethylated patients in whole AML cohort (
p = 0.009 and 0.043, respectively) and patients with nonacute promyelocytic leukemia (APL
; p = 0.023 and 0.039, respectively). Multivariate analysis confirmed that the ITGBL1 methylation served as an independent prognostic factor in both patients with whole‐cohort AML (
p = 0.030) and patients with non‐APL (
p = 0.020). Furthermore, the ITGBL1 methylation level was significantly decreased in follow‐up AML patients who achieved complete remission after induction therapy (
P = 0.001). ITGBL1 methylation negatively correlated with ITGBL1 expression in patients with AML (
R = −0.328,
p = 0.008). Moreover, demethylation of ITGBL1 could increase the ITGBL1 expression in the K562 leukemic cell line (
p < 0.05). In conclusion, the ITGBL1 hypermethylation is a potential biomarker for predicting prognosis and monitoring disease status in patients with AML.
Climate change evidence in Brazil from Köppen's climate annual types frequency
Authors: Dubreuil V. , Fante K. P. , Planchon O. , Sant'Anna Neto J. L.
Published: October 2018

This article proposes to use the Köppen classification to evidence climate change in Brazil. To do so, the average monthly temperature and precipitation data were computed for a set of 208 stations, representative of the climatic diversity of Brazil for the period from 1964 to 2015. The originality of our approach is not only to look at the shift between the averages of two references periods but also to observe how each year can be classified using Köppen's classification; thus, we defined “annual climate types” (ACT) and established the frequency of ACTs for each station and each period of 26 years: 1964–1989 and 1990–2015. The statistical and cartographic treatment of this information makes it possible to define the limits of the climates of Brazil and look at its evolution showing the diversity of regional situations in Brazil. The results show that 35 stations (17%) changed from the average Köppen's type, with significant regression of wet tropical types (Af and Am) and temperate types (C). On the other hand, the tropical (Aw), arid and semi‐arid (B) types progress between the two periods showing significant modifications of the climatic limits in Brazil: extension of aridity in the northeast of Brazil and increasing extinction of tropical types upon temperate climates in the south of the country and upon rainy types in the south of the Amazon. These results are consistent with other studies and illustrate the potential for climate change and variability monitoring using a simple classification method.
Moment of Truth: Why Aha! Experiences are Correct
Authors: Danek Amory H. , Salvi Carola
Published: October 2018

Having a sudden insight is often associated with inherent confidence, enough for Archimedes to run naked through the streets shouting “Eureka!”. Recent evidence demonstrates that public displays of enthusiasm, such as the ancient polymath's, are actually supported by a higher likelihood of being correct.
Physiological mechanisms underlying post‐silking nitrogen use efficiency of high‐yielding maize hybrids differing in nitrogen remobilization efficiency
Authors: Chen Yanling , Mi Guohua
Published: October 2018

It is a great challenge to increase nitrogen (N) remobilization from leaves while ensuring high grain yield of maize (Zea mays L.). One possible way is to increase photosynthetic N use efficiency (PNUE) of leaves during post‐silking. This study aimed to understand the strategies required to maintain high PNUE during post‐silking in a N‐remobilizing high‐yielding maize hybrid. In this study, the high‐yielding hybrid XY335 with high N remobilization efficiency (NRE) and the high‐yielding hybrid ZD958 with low NRE were used in a three‐year field experiment under normal N levels. The results show that specific leaf N contents were similar in lower, middle, and upper leaves of the two hybrids from silking stage to maturity. Throughout the grain filling period, net photosynthetic rate (PN), stomatal conductance (gs), intercellular CO2 concentration, and PNUE of XY335 were similar to that in ZD958 in lower leaves, but higher in middle and upper leaves. Stomatal density and maximum rate of carboxylation in upper leaves and maximum rate of electron transport in middle leaves was higher in XY335 than that in ZD958. It is concluded that maintaining the PNUE of lower leaves together with increasing the PNUE of middle and upper leaves at canopy‐level are the possible regulatory mechanisms to improve NRE without penalty in whole‐plant photosynthesis during post‐silking in modern high‐yielding cultivars. The higher PNUE is at least partly related to the higher proportion of N allocation to the carboxylation and bioenergetics systems and the higher stomatal density and greater gs. Therefore, genetic improvement in N allocation to the carboxylation and bioenergetics systems and stomatal density and gs might increase PNUE.
Late Quaternary meltwater pulses and sea level change
Authors: Harrison Stephan , Smith David E. , Glasser Neil F.
Published: October 2018

After the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) global mean sea level (GMSL) rise was characterized by rapid increases over short (decadal to centennial) timescales superimposed on a longer term secular rise and these have been termed meltwater pulses (MWPs). In this paper we review the timing, impact and nature of these and the effects of rapid drainage of large post‐glacial MWPs into the world's oceans. We identify nine MWPs, four of which occurred in three periods of rapid sea level rise (19.5–18.8, 14.8–13.0 and 11.5–11.1 ka BP). The rest are dated to the period during the Early Holocene sea level rise after 11 ka BP. We show that drainage of the known post‐glacial lakes in total produced less than around 1.2 m of the 125 m of GMSLR since the LGM.
Reduction in nitrogen fertilizer applications by the use of polymer‐coated urea: effect on maize yields and environmental impacts of nitrogen losses
Authors: Xie Yong , Tang Li , Han Yongliang , Yang Lan , Xie Guixian , Peng Jianwei , Tian Chang , Zhou Xuan , Liu Qiang , Rong Xiangmin , Zhang Yuping
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Urea is commonly over‐applied as a nitrogen (N) fertilizer to crops in southern China and has a low utilization efficiency as a result of the high precipitation and high temperatures in this region. This has led to a need to optimize the management of N fertilizer use in maize crops on the subtropical hilly uplands of southern China.

RESULTS

We investigated the effects of applying different amounts of N in the form of polymer‐coated urea (PCU) on the yield of maize and gaseous losses of N from soils in the form of NH3 and N2O. The field plots used in this trial had zero‐added N (0 kg N ha−1), the addition of urea (240 kg N ha−1) and four levels of fertilization with PCU (1 PCU, 0.9 PCU, 0.8 PCU and 0.7 PCU), which represented a 0%, 10%, 20% and 30% reduction, respectively, in the application of PCU‐N relative to the urea plot. Compared to the urea plot, there was little variation in the yield of maize for all the PCU‐N treatments, with a significant improvement in the utilization efficiency of N (up to 46.0–51.2%) with a 0–30% reduction in the application of PCU‐N. Significant effects in the mitigation of the N2O emission flux and the accumulation of N2O‐N were observed in the 0.8 PCU and 0.7 PCU plots. The application of PCU‐N significantly reduced the flux and total amount of NH3‐N lost to the environment: as the application rate for N decreased by 0–30%, the NH3 loss was significantly reduced by 12.7–36.1%.

CONCLUSION

The findings of the present study suggest that the use of PCU could allow a reduction in the application of N of 20–30% compared to traditional agricultural practices in this area with the same yield of maize, although with significantly decreased NH3 and N2O losses and the increased utilization of N. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Fusion of near‐infrared and fluorescence spectroscopy for untargeted fraud detection of Chinese tea seed oil using chemometric methods
Authors: Hu Ou , Chen Jing , Gao Pengfei , Li Gangfeng , Du Shijie , Fu Haiyan , Shi Qiong , Xu Lu
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

This paper investigated the feasibility of data fusion of near‐infrared (NIR) and fluorescence spectroscopy for rapid analysis of cheap vegetable oils in Chinese Camellia oleifera Abel. (COA) oil. Because practical frauds usually involve adulterations of multiple known and unknown cheap oils, traditional analytical methods aimed at detecting one or more known adulterants are insufficient to identify adulterated COA oil. Therefore, untargeted analysis was performed by developing class models of pure COA oil using robust one‐class partial least squares (OCPLS).

RESULTS

The most accurate OCPLS model was obtained with fusion of standard normal variate (SNV)‐NIR and SNV–fluorescence spectra with sensitivity of 0.954 and specificity of 0.91. Robust OCPLS could detect adulterations with 2% (w/w) or more cheap oils, including rapeseed oil, sunflower seed oil, corn oil and peanut oil.

CONCLUSION

Fusion of NIR and fluorescence data and chemometrics provided enhanced capacity for rapid and untargeted analysis of multiple adulterations in Chinese COA oils. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Surgery for isolated regional failure in nasopharyngeal carcinoma after radiation: Selective or comprehensive neck dissection
Authors: Liu You‐Ping , Li Hao , You Rui , Li Ji‐Bin , Liu Xue‐Kui , Yang An‐Kui , Guo Xiang , Song Ming , Zhang Quan , Guo Zhu‐Ming , Chen Wen‐Kuan , Liu Wei‐Wei , Zou Xiong , Hua Yi‐Jun , Yang Qi , Zhang Yi‐Nuan , Sun Rui , Mo Hao‐Yuan , Guo Ling , Lin Ai‐Hua , Mai Hai‐Qiang , Qian Chao‐Nan , Chen Ming‐Yuan
Published: October 2018

Objective

To compare survival effects of comprehensive neck dissection (CND) and selective neck dissection (SND) for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) with only regional failure.

Methods

A total of 294 recurrent T0N1‐3M0 NPC patients who underwent neck dissection in Sun Yat‐Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China, between January 1984 and February 2014, were enrolled in the survival and interaction analyses. Using propensity scores to adjust for potential prognostic factors, an additional well‐balanced cohort of 210 patients was constructed by matching each patient who received SND with one patient who underwent CND (1:1); the differences were then compared between SND and CND in terms of overall survival (OS), local recurrence‐free survival (LRFS), regional recurrence‐free survival (RRFS), and distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS).

Results

Both univariate and multivariate analyses showed that SND was not inferior to CND (P > 0.05) but demonstrated that extracapsular spread (ECS) (hazard ratio [HR] 3.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.30–5.29, P < 0.001), recurrent N stage (rN stage) (HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.29–2.97, P = 0.002), and positive margins (HR 3.67, 95% CI 2.40–5.62, P < 0.001) were independent poor prognostic factors for OS. The interaction effects between the dissection style and each independent factor were not significant for OS, LRFS, RRFS, or DMFS (P > 0.05). Furthermore, no survival differences were found between SND and CND in the case‐matched cohort in terms of OS, LRFS, RRFS, or DMFS (P = 0.550, 0.930, 0.214, and 0.146, respectively).

Conclusion

With a similar radical dissection extent around the tumor rather than dissection of extensive lymph region distal to the lesion, SND is not inferior to CND for patients with NPC with only cervical failure. ECS, rN stage, and positive margins were adverse independent prognostic factors for patients with NPC.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:387–395, 2019
Dynamics of Intrinsic Laryngeal Muscle Contraction
Authors: Vahabzadeh‐Hagh Andrew M. , Pillutla Pranati , Zhang Zhaoyan , Chhetri Dinesh K.
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Laryngeal function requires neuromuscular activation of the intrinsic laryngeal muscles (ILMs). Rapid activation of the ILMs occurs in cough, laughter, and voice‐unvoiced‐voiced segments in speech and singing. Abnormal activation is observed in hyperfunctional disorders such as vocal tremor and dystonia. In this study, we evaluate the dynamics of ILM contraction.

Study/Design

Basic science study in an in vivo canine model.

Methods

The following ILMs were stimulated: thyroarytenoid (TA), lateral cricoarytenoid/interarytenoid (LCA/IA), cricothyroid (CT), all laryngeal adductors (LCA/IA/TA), and the posterior cricoarytenoid (PCA). Neuromuscular stimulation was performed via the respective nerves at current levels needed to achieve maximum vocal fold posture change. Muscle contraction and posture changes were recorded with high speed video (HSV). HSV frames were then analyzed to measure response times required from the onset of muscle contraction to the time the vocal folds achieved maximum posture change.

Results

In all muscles, the onset of posture change occurred within 10 to 12 milliseconds after neuromuscular stimulation. The average times ( ± standard deviation) to achieve final posture were as follows: TA 34.5 ± 6 ms (N = 15), LCA/IA 55 ± 12 ms (N = 14), recurrent laryngeal nerve 43 ± 8 ms (N = 18), CT 100.8 ± 17 ms (N = 26), and PCA 91.2 ± 8 ms (N = 3). Data distribution appeared normal.

Conclusion

Results showed a difference in muscle activation time between different ILMs consistent with reported differences in muscle fiber composition. These data also provide an estimate of the limits of laryngeal contraction frequency in physiologic and pathologic laryngeal states.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:E21–E25, 2019
The effects of cytosporone‐B, a novel antifibrotic agent, on vocal fold fibroblasts
Authors: Hiwatashi Nao , Mukudai Shigeyuki , Bing Renjie , Branski Ryan C.
Published: October 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Our laboratory recently described NR4A1 as an endogenous inhibitor of TGF‐β–induced vocal fold (VF) fibrosis. Our prior report described the temporal expression of NR4A1 during VF healing in vivo and the effects of NR4A1 knockdown on fibroplastic cell activities in vitro. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that cytosporone‐B (Csn‐B), an NR4A1 agonist, may hold significant therapeutic potential.

Study Design

In vitro.

Methods

Human VF fibroblasts were exposed to TGF‐β1+/‐Csn‐B. Expression of genes related to fibrosis were quantified. In addition, contraction was assayed as a surrogate for the fibrotic phenotype in our cell line.

Results

TGF‐B1 stimulated COL1A1 and ACTA2, as expected. Csn‐B significantly downregulated TGF‐β1–mediated upregulation of these genes (P = .009, P = .03, respectively). Csn‐B had no effect on genes related to TGF‐β/Smad signaling. Csn‐B also decreased the TGF‐β1–mediated contractile phenotype in our cells (P = .004).

Conclusions

NR4A1 is an endogenous inhibitor of fibrosis in the vocal folds and Csn‐B, as an NR4A1 agonist, may evolve as an ideal, therapeutic candidate for this challenging condition.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 128:E425–E428, 2018
Time Course of Recovery of Iatrogenic Vocal Fold Paralysis
Authors: Husain Solomon , Sadoughi Babak , Mor Niv , Sulica Lucian
Published: October 2018

Objective

To clarify the time course of recovery in patients with iatrogenic vocal fold paralysis.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Medical records for all patients with iatrogenic vocal fold paralysis over a 10‐year period were reviewed to obtain demographic and clinical information, including onset of disease and recovery of vocal function. Stroboscopic exams of patients who recovered voice were reviewed blindly to assess return of vocal fold motion.

Results

One hundred and two patients of 114 (89%) recovered vocal function. Time to recovery could be assessed in 39 patients who did not undergo injection augmentation. The mean time to recovery was 181.8 ± 109.3 days (left: 166.4 ± 106.7 days; right: 221.8 ± 115.6 days; P value = 0.095). Patients were analyzed according to anatomical site of surgery (skull base, carotid endarterectomy, thoracic, neck and intubation); there was no significant difference in time to recovery (P value = 0.60). Twelve of the 39 patients had recovery of vocal fold motion. The mean time to vocal recovery did not differ between patients with return of motion versus no return of motion (140.6 ± 118.0 days vs. 200.1 ± 102.2 days; P value = 0.147).

Conclusion

Age, gender, laterality, and anatomical site of injury do not influence recovery rate in iatrogenic vocal fold paralysis. The probability of recovery decreases over time but more slowly in comparison with idiopathic vocal fold paralysis, reflecting the greater heterogeneity of injury type in the iatrogenic population. Commonly available aggregate recovery rates overstate the potential for recovery.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:1159–1163, 2019
New Systemic Treatments in Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sanduzzi‐Zamparelli Marco , Díaz‐Gonzalez Álvaro , Reig María
Published: October 2018

The principal advancements in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are the use of new systemic treatments, such as lenvatinib in first‐line treatment and regorafenib, cabozantinib, and ramucirumab in second‐line treatment, because of their benefits in terms of overall survival. In addition, nivolumab as a second‐line agent was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2017 based on improved radiological response data. Physicians and patients alike will greatly benefit from this expanded arsenal of treatments once all these new drugs for the treatment of HCC finally become available. Unfortunately, in our review of the available data, we found a conspicuous lack of approved systemic treatments for HCC in the distinct setting of after liver transplantation (LT). Careful evaluation of the clinical trials for approved systemic treatments of HCC is crucial when considering the best options for those with HCC recurrence after LT. Although several first‐line or second‐line treatments have been shown to be effective for HCC, each of these trials was composed of its own specific populations, and those with HCC recurrence after LT were excluded. We have also summarized from a critical and clinical point of view the issues involved in the management of patients who are candidates for systemic treatment in this era of multiple drugs for the same indication.
β‐Cyclodextrin‐Based Star Amphiphilic Copolymers: Synthesis, Characterization, and Evaluation as Artificial Channels
Authors: Faye Ibrahima , Huin Cécile , Illy Nicolas , Bennevault Véronique , Guégan Philippe
Published: October 2018

14‐arm amphiphilic star copolymers are synthesized according to different strategies. First, the anionic ring polymerization of 1,2‐butylene oxide (BO) initiated by per(2‐O‐methyl‐3,6‐di‐O‐(3‐hydroxypropyl))‐β‐CD (β‐CD’OH14) and catalyzed by t‐BuP4 in DMF is investigated. Analyses by NMR and SEC show the well‐defined structure of the star β‐CD’‐PBO14. To obtain a 14‐arm poly(butylene oxide‐b‐ethylene oxide) star, a Huisgen cycloaddition between an α‐methoxy‐ω‐azidopoly(ethylene oxide) and the β‐CD’‐PBO14,whose end‐chains are beforehand alkyne‐functionalized, is performed. In parallel, 14‐arm star copolymers composed of butylene oxide‐b‐glycidol arms are successfully synthesized by the anionic polymerization of ethoxyethylglycidyl ether (EEGE) initiated by β‐CD’‐PBO14 with t‐BuP4. The deprotection of EEGE units is then performed to provide the polyglycidol blocks. These amphiphilic star polymers are evaluated as artificial channels in lipid bilayers. The effect of changing a PEO block by a polyglycidol block on the insertion properties of these artificial channels is discussed.
Non‐Delaminating Polymer Hydrogel Coatings via C,H‐Insertion Crosslinking (CHic)—A Case Study of Poly(oxanorbornenes)
Authors: Riga Esther K. , Rühe Jürgen , Lienkamp Karen
Published: October 2018

Robust, non‐delaminating polymer coatings and hydrogels are needed for technical and biomedical applications. This study focuses on surface‐attached poly(oxanorbornene) hydrogels obtained by simultaneous UV‐activated crosslinking and surface‐immobilization. The synthesis and copolymerization of two oxanorbornene monomers carrying the UV‐crosslinkers malonic acid diazoester or benzophenone, which can both undergo UV‐triggered C,H‐insertion crosslinking (CHic), is presented. The crosslinking efficiency and network stability of hydrogels made from these self‐crosslinkable polymers are studied and compared to the properties of poly(oxanorbornene) networks obtained by UV‐triggered thiol‐ene‐reactions involving a low molecular weight crosslinker. Smooth, defect‐free, non‐delaminating hydrogel coatings are obtained by CHic, not only on laboratory model surfaces but also on a technical product.
Anti‐stigma campaign ‘makes it OK’ to discuss mental illness
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: October 2018

Observing that people often wait years before seeking mental health treatment, in part due to the stigma of mental illness, officials of a public‐private partnership in Minnesota that designs programs for consumers with mental illness launched a public awareness campaign with a national reach to encourage people to talk more openly about the subject.
A compact superformula based ultra‐wideband antenna shape with two notched bands
Authors: Mouhouche F. , Azrar A. , Dehmas M. , Djafri K.
Published: October 2018

In this paper, a compact superformula ultra‐wideband (UWB) monopole antenna with dual band notches is proposed. The developed structure achieves UWB performance as well as a compact size of 20 × 26 × 1.62 mm3. Furthermore, to avoid interferences with WiMAX and satellite communication systems, dual notched band is obtained by engraving two co‐directional triangular split ring defects on the radiating element. The simulated and measured results show that the proposed antenna has an impedance bandwidth extending from 3.05 to 20 GHz with dual notched bands at [5.15‐5.68 GHz], and [7.15‐7.65 GHz] used in WiMAX and satellite communication, respectively. The proposed design realizes omnidirectional radiation pattern in H‐plane, and a dipole‐like pattern in E‐plane. The antenna exhibits an acceptable gain in the whole UWB range except at notched bands.
Performance analysis of an S‐band antenna for nanosatellite payloads communication system
Authors: Alam Touhidul , Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Amanath Ullah Md. , Cho Mengu
Published: October 2018

The nanosatellite concept was born from the low‐cost small satellite educational research activities that lead to the nanosatellite revolution. However, in recent years, the development of the nanosatellite is not for just research purpose but commercial opportunities as well. Antenna is very crucial part of the nanosatellite communication system that establishes communication between space to ground. In this paper, an S‐band circular polarized (CP) antenna is presented and investigate the performance compatibility for nanosatellite space mission. The antenna was fabricated on 1.575 mm thick Rogers 5880 substrate material. The measured result shows that the antenna has a −10 dB reflection coefficient bandwidth of 1.64%, 3 dB axial‐ratio bandwidths of 38 MHz and realized gain of around 5.58 dB at the resonant frequency. The antenna was integrated with 2 U nanosatellite structure and investigated the antenna performance.
Nutrition Support During Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Authors: Farr Bethany J. , Rice‐Townsend Samuel E. , Mehta Nilesh M.
Published: October 2018

Providing adequate nutrition to critically ill pediatric patients is essential and positively impacts outcomes. Critically ill infants and children receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy are nutritionally vulnerable, yet there are challenges to reliable assessment of nutrition requirements and to the delivery of optimal nutrition in this cohort. In this review of the relevant literature, we present the current evidence and guidelines for the optimal prescription and delivery of nutrition for pediatric patients receiving ECMO. We also discuss nutrient delivery considerations in ECMO survivors and identify areas where further study is needed.
Peridynamic bond‐associated correspondence model: Stability and convergence properties
Authors: Chen Hailong , Spencer Benjamin W.
Published: October 2018

The correspondence approach is a powerful technique that permits the usage of standard constitutive models from local theory within a peridynamic formulation. However, the conventional correspondence formulation suffers from material instability, ie, zero‐energy modes, which must be controlled for it to be applied in practice. The recently‐introduced correspondence reformulation based on the use of a bond‐associated deformation gradient can inherently remove the material instability. In this paper, we show how the bond‐associated correspondence model satisfies the requirement for material stability. The convergence behavior is also examined. The accuracy of this approach is further demonstrated by comparing model predictions against local reference solutions and results from the conventional correspondence model with penalty stabilization for both two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional problems.
Funder's meaning making regarding complex, adaptive projects: Findings from a developmentally oriented feasibility study
Authors: Jones Jennifer A. , Daniel David L.
Published: October 2018

Environmental non‐profit organizations need to raise billions of dollars in the coming years to support climate change initiatives. Many of these initiatives are complex in nature and markedly different from traditional environmental projects such as land conservation. These interventions are dependent on sufficient funding, and sufficient funding is dependent upon whether donors understand the problem and the intervention. Understanding the nature of complex problems is related to what developmental theorists call an individual's developmental level. Using a qualitative case study methodology, we conducted interviews with donors from one chapter of a large environmental organization, The Nature Conservancy, to (a) determine how high‐level donors react to capital campaign materials presenting systems‐oriented interventions and (b) test the utility of a developmentally informed feasibility study interview. The findings indicate that a developmental approach to feasibility study interviews is useful. Donors expressed interest about the idea of systemic change but are unclear as to how to measure the success of complex, adaptive initiatives. The developmentally informed interview process deepened the conversations between donors and staff and to provide what many interviewees described as a rare and much‐needed opportunity for reflection. Although the results from a single case study are not generalizable, the study nevertheless makes a theoretical contribution and has practical implications for fundraisers of organizations addressing climate change and, potentially, other complex issues.
Alignment of diet prescription to genotype does not promote greater weight loss success in women with obesity participating in an exercise and weight loss program
Authors: Coletta A. M. , Sanchez B. , O'Connor A. , Dalton R. , Springer S. , Koozehchian M. S. , Murano P. S. , Woodman C. R. , Rasmussen C. , Kreider R. B.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Genetics contribute to variability in individual response to weight‐loss interventions. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of a commercially available exercise and weight‐loss program and whether alignment of diet to genotype related to lipid metabolism promotes greater success.

Design

Sedentary women with obesity (n = 63) had genotype (FABP2rs1799883, PPARG2rs1801282, ADRB3rs4994C3, ADRB2rs1042713, rs1042714) determined using a direct‐to‐consumer genetic screening kit purported to promote greater weight‐loss success through dietary recommendations based on these genes. Participants were randomly assigned to follow a moderate carbohydrate (MC) or lower carbohydrate (LC) hypo‐energetic diet that aligned (A) or did not align (NA) with genotype for 24 weeks while participating in a resistance training and walking program. Data were analysed by general linear model repeated measures adjusted for baseline variables and are presented as mean (95% confidence interval) changes from baseline.

Results

Participants in the LC group experienced greater improvements (p = 0.051, ηp2 = 0.025) in per cent changes in body composition (weight: MC −3.32 [−1.4, −5.2], LC −5.82 [−4.1, −7.6]; fat mass: MC −7.25 [−3.2, −11.2], LC −10.93 [−7.3, −14.5]; fat‐free mass: MC −0.32 [1.4, −2.0], LC −1.48 [0.7, −3.0]; and body fat percentage: MC −4.19 [−1.6, −6.8], LC −5.60 [−3.3, −7.9] %). No significant differences were observed between genotype groups (weight: A −5.00 [−3.3, −6.7], NA −4.14 [−2.2, −6.1]; fat mass: A −10.15 [−7.0, −13.6], NA −8.02 [−4.0, −12.0]; fat‐free mass: A −1.23 [0.3, −2.8], NA −0.56 [1.12, −2.3]; and body fat: A −5.28 [−3.0, −7.6], NA −4.51 [−1.9, −7.1] %).

Conclusions

Adherence to this exercise and weight‐loss program promoted improvements in body composition and health outcomes. While individuals following the LC diet experienced greater benefits, alignment of these diets to this genetic profile did not promote greater health outcomes.
In situ organically cross‐linked polymer gel for high‐temperature reservoir conformance control: A review
Authors: Amir Zulhelmi , Said Ismail Mohd , Jan Badrul Mohamed
Published: October 2018

Polymer gel has been established as water‐blocking agents in oil recovery application. In this practice, a mixture known as gelant is injected into target area and set into a semisolid gel after a certain adequate time. Besides profile modification and water shutoff, the role of the polymer gel in conformance control is to block high permeability regions, before diverting injected water from high permeability to low permeability zones of the reservoir. It is to boost the oil displacement and sweep efficiency. This is the key to improve oil recovery in the heterogeneous oil reservoirs. However, very limited gels are applicable for harsh conditions, especially in high‐temperature reservoirs. Organically cross‐linked polymer is 1 of the materials for conformance control at high‐temperature reservoirs. Many experimental works and field applications have exhibited the potential of this technology. This paper presents a concise review on this polymer gel for conformance control at high‐temperature wells. Firstly, in situ organically cross‐linked polymer gel has been introduced, and the reason of the use over other types of polymer gels is summarized. The early studies of organically cross‐linked gel systems are also discussed, followed by the chemistry and the gelation mechanisms. An extensive review on factors that affect gelation kinetics and field applications is also discussed in some detail.
In situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles on densely amine‐functionalized polystyrene: Highly active nanocomposite catalyst for the reduction of methylene blue
Authors: Amari Heni , Guerrouache Mohamed , Mahouche‐Chergui Samia , Abderrahim Raoudha , Carbonnier Benjamin
Published: October 2018

In this contribution, polystyrene (PS) bearing nitrogen‐rich ligands as chelation moieties for both Ag+ ions and Ag(0) nanoparticles was prepared through successive chemical modifications of native PS including nitration (treatment with HNO3/H2SO4), reductive amination (treatment with SnCl2/HCl), Michael addition of methyl acrylate, and grafting of ethyelenediamine. The as‐synthesized PS derivative was further used to support silver nanoparticles through initial chelation of the silver nanoparticle ions precursor and subsequent chemical in situ reduction with sodium borohydride. Chemical structure of the PS derivatives was confirmed after each synthesis step by using complementary characterization methods including infrared and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopies, elemental analysis, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The catalytic activity of the PS‐EAD/AgNP nanocomposite was demonstrated using the reduction of methylene blue to leucomethylene blue, as a model reaction. The reaction was monitored by UV‐vis spectrophotometry and achieved with an excess of sodium borohydride allowing for a pseudo‐first‐order analysis of the kinetic reaction parameters. Quantitative reduction of the methylene blue was obtained upon successive catalytic cycles with a rate constant value of 0.4016 minute−1.
Interfacial control and mechanical properties of carbon black‐reinforced carboxyl‐terminated butadiene acrylonitrile rubber/epoxy polymer composites
Authors: Kishi Hajime , Imai Kentaro , Iimura Kenji , Tanaka Hidekazu , Nagao Atsushi , Kakibe Takeshi , Matsuda Satoshi
Published: October 2018

Carbon black (CB) particles were employed as a reinforcing filler in carboxyl‐terminated butadiene acrylonitrile rubber (CTBN)/epoxy resin (diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A (DGEBA))/aromatic diamine (diamino diphenyl methane (DDM)) network polymer blends. The strength, modulus, and ability to absorb impact energy of the resulting composites were evaluated. The aim of this work was to determine the effects of interfacial interactions between components, and processing conditions (especially temperature) on mechanical properties. The application of high temperatures during the kneading process resulted in strong interfacial interactions between the CB particles and the CTBN. The formation of strong bonds at the CB/CTBN interfaces during kneading was the key factor in obtaining high strength and high impact energy absorbance. The composites also exhibited good adhesive strength during both shear and peel stress tests.
Conductivity and dielectric permittivity studies of KI‐based nanocomposite (PEO/PMMA/KI/I2/ZnO nanorods) polymer solid electrolytes
Authors: Kanimozhi G. , Vinoth S. , Harish Kumar , Srinadhu E.S. , Satyanarayana N.
Published: October 2018

In this present study, we have studied the relaxation behaviour and dynamics of charge carriers in poly(ethylene oxide; PEO)/poly(methyl methacrylate; PMMA) blend with potassium based iodide–triiodide redox couple as polymer solid electrolyte dispersed with different concentration of ZnO nanorods as fillers. Various composition of potassium iodide (KI)‐based nanocomposite (PEO/PMMA/KI/I2/x wt% ZnO nanorods, x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10) polymer solid electrolytes (NCPSEs) films were prepared by solution casting technique. Structural properties of the prepared solid electrolytes are studied by X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Among the prepared NCPSEs, 6 wt% sample of solid electrolyte showed high conductivity of 4.698 × 10−5 S/cm. The relaxation and dynamics of charge carriers are studied by analyzing complex conductivity and dielectric permittivity through power law along with the contribution of electrode polarization and Havriliak–Negami formalism, respectively, for the prepared polymer solid electrolytes to find out their usefulness for dye‐sensitized solar cell applications. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers POLYM. COMPOS., 40:2919–2928, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Significance of data mining in routine signal detection: Analysis based on the safety signals identified by the FDA
Authors: Fukazawa Chisato , Hinomura Yasushi , Kaneko Masayuki , Narukawa Mamoru
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Data mining has been introduced as one of the most useful methods for signal detection by spontaneous reports, but data mining is not always effective in detecting all safety issues. To investigate appropriate situations in which data mining is effective in routine signal detection activities, we analyzed the characteristics of signals that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

Methods

Among the signals that the FDA identified from the FAERS between 2008 1Q and 2014 4Q, we selected 233 signals to evaluate in this study. We conducted a disproportionality analysis and classified these signals into two groups according to the presence or absence of statistical significance in the reporting odds ratio (ROR). Then, we compared the two groups based on the characteristics of the suspected drugs and adverse events (AEs).

Results

Safety signals were most frequently identified for new drugs that had been on the market for less than 5 years, but some signals were still identified for old drugs (≥20 years), and most of them were statistically significant. The proportion of the signals for “serious” events was significantly higher in the group of nonsignals by ROR (Fisher's exact test, P = 0.032).

Conclusions

Data mining was shown to be effective in the following situations: (1) early detection of safety issues for newly marketed drugs, (2) continuous monitoring of safety issues for old drugs, and (3) signal detection of nonserious AEs, to which little attention is usually given.
Influence of aliphatic polycarbonate middle block on mechanical and microstructural behaviour of triblock copolymers based on poly(l‐lactide) and polycarbonate
Authors: Konwar Debanga B , Satapathy Bhabani K , Jacob Josemon
Published: October 2018

Three different ABA‐type triblock copolymers each containing biodegradable aliphatic polycarbonate as the middle block and poly(l‐lactide) as the outer blocks were synthesized and the influence of the methylene chain length of the aliphatic polycarbonate middle block on various properties of the triblock copolymers was evaluated. Differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction studies revealed that the incorporation of the outer blocks reduced the crystallinity of the middle aliphatic polycarbonate block. Variation of methylene chain length of the middle block led to a change in morphology from spherical to cylindrical as evidenced from atomic force microscopy studies. In addition, the mechanical properties of the block copolymers showed semi‐ductile to quasi‐brittle behaviour depending upon the composition of the middle block which was also confirmed using scanning electron microscopy. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the triblock copolymers indicated that storage modulus increased with a decrease in methylene chain length. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Tracing indium production to the mines of the Cerro Rico de Potosí
Authors: Francescone Kirsten
Published: October 2018

In this article, I examine the valorization process in the indium commodity chain. The first section of the article looks closely at small‐scale polymetallic production in Potosí. Here I demonstrate how producers and mill operators in Bolivia, because of the nature of the metal, do not know their production contains indium and instead perceive their production to be less valuable. The second section of the article seeks to link Bolivian production to international indium markets. I demonstrate how accumulation occurs along the commodity chain for companies that deny the Bolivian origin of their mill feeds. I conclude with an analysis of the state of the commodity in economic anthropology. I argue, with help from Bolivian miners, that previous and contemporary notions of the commodity have neglected an important part of its composition, what Marx referred to as “dead/past labor.” Incorporating this notion into our understanding of commodities, I argue, can help us understand the way raw material mineral markets function today.
From “good credit” to “bad debt”: Comparative reflections on the student debt experience of young professionals in Santiago, Chile, and Montreal, Canada
Authors: Pérez‐Roa Lorena
Published: October 2018

This article explores how and when student debt is represented as a problem for young people as well as the ways in which the consequences of this indebtedness are handled. This is done through a comparative reflection about the experience of indebtedness felt by several young adults who have university student loan debt in Santiago, Chile, and Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The primary results confirm that the two contexts produce two types of distinct experiences of indebtedness. The young adults in Montreal consider indebtedness to be a problem, so much so that they have internalized the discourse on individual responsibility and financial autonomy promoted by credit agencies and Quebec society. Indebted young adults in Santiago consider their indebtedness to be a problem when they observe that Chilean society is not capable of fulfilling the promise of social mobility through the acquisition of a university degree. While for Montreal debtors, the consequences are internalized and shielded by legislation, the Santiago debtors politicize their demands for a debt solution.
Solvent and Catalyst‐Free Synthesis of Silicon‐Protected Alcohols
Authors: Mittersteiner Mateus , Voigt Morgana A. , de Jesus Paulo C. , Brondani Patrícia B.
Published: October 2018

The protection reactions of alcohols (primary and secondary) were efficiently performed applying silyl chlorides (Me3SiCl, Et3SiCl, t‐BuMe2SiCl and t‐BuPh2SiCl) as protecting source, on grinding, without the use of a catalyst. The reactions proceeded smoothly, either at room temperature or at 40 °C, depending on the protecting group applied, and under solvent‐free conditions. In comparison with the classical reaction conditions, which employ, most of the times, solvent in anhydrous conditions (tetrahydrofuran or N,N‐dimethylformamide), this synthetic protocol exhibits the advantages of shorter reaction times, milder reaction conditions, higher yields and simpler purification steps. Under this method 21 examples could be obtained at short reaction times (5 – 10 min) and presenting up to 98% of yields. When the substrate was a diol bearing primary and phenolic hydroxyl moieties, the monoprotected or the diprotected product could be obtained as a sole product, in excellent yields.
Machine learning from crowds: A systematic review of its applications
Authors: G. Rodrigo Enrique , Aledo Juan A. , Gámez José A.
Published: October 2018

Crowdsourcing opens the door to solving a wide variety of problems that previously were unfeasible in the field of machine learning, allowing us to obtain relatively low cost labeled data in a small amount of time. However, due to the uncertain quality of labelers, the data to deal with are sometimes unreliable, forcing practitioners to collect information redundantly, which poses new challenges in the field. Despite these difficulties, many applications of machine learning using crowdsourced data have recently been published that achieved state of the art results in relevant problems. We have analyzed these applications following a systematic methodology, classifying them into different fields of study, highlighting several of their characteristics and showing the recent interest in the use of crowdsourcing for machine learning. We also identify several exciting research lines based on the problems that remain unsolved to foster future research in this field.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning

Application Areas > Science and Technology

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Key Design Issues in Data Mining
Designing for Mental Health: Psychiatry, Psychology and the Architectural Study Project
Authors: Ramsden Edmund
Published: October 2018

In 1953 the American Psychiatric Association established an Architectural Study Project in collaboration with the American Institute of Architects. The project brought together a wide range of experts from psychiatry and the behavioural sciences and the planning and design professions to provide solutions to the ailing mental hospital system in North America. They began to focus attention on various aspects of the hospital environment, such as light, colour and the creation of spaces for privacy and social contact, in ways that would go on to influence theories, methods and designs far beyond the walls of the institution. This paper will explore the contribution of the mental hospital, as both laboratory and field site, to the development of the new field of environmental psychology which attended to the function and design of a range of city spaces to prevent mental illness and promote mental health in a period of urban crisis.