bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic wet peroxide assisted degradation of Orange II dye by reduced graphene oxide and zeolites
Authors: Ovhal Shital D , Rodrigues Carmen SD , Madeira Luis M
Published: August 2020

Background

Photocatalytic degradation of Orange II (OII) dye has been carried out with commercially available materials, namely sodium Y zeolite (NaY), ammonium Y zeolite (NH4Y), and reduced graphene oxide (RGO). The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption at −196 °C, pH at the point of zero charge (pHpzc), and ultraviolet/visible (UV/Vis) diffuse reflectance absorbance. The initial screening of processes like adsorption, oxidation with hydrogen peroxide alone, direct photolysis, combination of H2O2 with the catalyst, and/or with UV/Vis radiation has been done. For the process with better performance (radiation combined with the oxidant and using the materials as photocatalysts), a parametric study was carried out to evaluate the effect of pH, H2O2 concentration, catalyst dose, radiation intensity, and radiation type (UV/Vis or visible radiation) in OII degradation and mineralization.

Results

The screening demonstrated that radiation plays an important role in the hydroxyl radical formation and, inherently, in the oxidation of OII and in the mineralization of the organic compounds formed. Still, for all catalysts tested, the existence of optima in terms of pH (2.0), catalyst dose (100 mg L−1), and H2O2 concentration (6 mM) was found, while the maximum radiation intensity (500 W m−2) and UV/Vis radiation incidence benefits the oxidation process. However, the best process performance was achieved when using the catalyst that absorbs more radiation (RGO), yielding OII and TOC removals of 97.7% and 87.9%, respectively, after 90 min of reaction time.

Conclusion

Taking into account the great performance reached, a possible application of such catalysts in the treatment of textile dyeing effluents is anticipated. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI)
Endothelial dysfunction in patients with myocardial ischemia or infarction and nonobstructive coronary arteries
Authors: Simsek Ersin Cagri , Sari Cenk , Kucukokur Murat , Ekmekci Cenk , Colak Ayfer , Ozdogan Oner
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The syndromes of myocardial infarction/myocardial ischemia with No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease (MINOCA/INOCA) are seen more and more often. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) leading to ischemic events has been reported in many of these patients. We aimed to compare patients with MINOCA and INOCA regarding brachial artery flow‐mediated endothelium‐dependent vasodilation (flow‐mediated dilation [FMD]) and plasma concentration of cardiotrophin‐1 (CT‐1).

Methods

We included 42 patients with MINOCA and 38 patients with INOCA. Endothelial function was assessed by measuring FMD% and nitroglycerin‐mediated dilatation (NMD%) in the brachial artery. The plasma level of CT‐1 was determined by solid‐phase enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

FMD% was significantly lower in MINOCA than in INOCA patients (6.45 ± 2.65 vs 8.94 ± 3.32, P < .001), without significant difference in NMD% (10.69 ± 3.19 vs 12.16 ± 3.69, P = .06). Plasma CT‐1 levels were not significantly different: 40.1 pg/mL (22.5‐102.1) vs 37.2 pg/mL (23.5‐67.2), P = .53.

Conclusion

Our results suggest worse ED in MINOCA than in INOCA patients, but demonstrated no difference in CT‐1 levels between patients with stable and unstable ischemic heart disease and normal coronary arteries.
Extent of food restriction affects probability but not delay‐based decision‐making
Authors: Tapp Danielle N. , Zerkle Hannah L. , McMurray Matthew S.
Published: August 2020

Rodent studies on decision‐making often use food rewards and food‐restrict subjects in order to motivate performance. However, food restriction has widespread effects on brain and behavior, which depend on factors including extent of restriction and feeding schedule. These factors are well recognized for their effects on motivation, but may also cause effects on decision‐making independent of motivation. We examined how the degree of weight‐based food restriction in rats influenced decision‐making on the probability and delay discounting tasks. Additionally, we examined how the method of food restriction (consistent amount vs. time constrained feeding schedule) influenced decision‐making. Our results showed that the degree of weight‐based food restriction significantly altered probability, but not delay discounting, and that these effects were not entirely explainable by differences in motivation. Additionally, the method of food restriction did not significantly influence discounting when animals were within the same range of weight‐based restriction. Together, our findings suggest that the degree of food restriction may modulate the neural circuitry responsible for selective aspects of decision‐making related to probability. Further, these data support the need for tight control and reporting of weight and feeding in studies relying on food restriction, and suggest that the effects of food restriction may be broader than previously considered.
Conservation implications of fish–habitat relationships in channelized agricultural headwater streams
Authors: Sanders Kathryn E. , Smiley Peter C. , Gillespie Robert B. , King Kevin W. , Smith Douglas R. , Pappas Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2020

Channelized agricultural headwater streams are common throughout agricultural watersheds in the midwestern United States. Understanding fish–habitat relationships within these streams will provide information that can assist with developing conservation and restoration strategies for these degraded streams. From spring 2006 to fall 2010, we collected fishes and measured riparian habitat, instream habitat, and water chemistry variables from seven sites in Cedar Creek, Indiana, and 14 sites in Upper Big Walnut Creek, Ohio. We found that fish community structure was more strongly correlated with instream habitat than riparian habitat or water chemistry in both watersheds. We also observed interrelationships among instream habitat, watershed size, and fish communities within both watersheds that suggest that the hydrological changes that occur with increasing watershed size are the underlying factor for fish community changes that occur with increasing watershed size. Our results suggest that conservation and restoration efforts within channelized agricultural headwater streams in the midwestern United States, where nutrients and herbicide concentrations are low, need to address physical habitat degradation to positively influence fish community structure.
MRI‐Based Deep‐Learning Model for Distant Metastasis‐Free Survival in Locoregionally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wu Xiangjun , Liu Jing , Zhang Bin , Mo Xiaokai , Chen Qiuying , Fang Jin , Wang Fei , Li Minmin , Chen Zhuozhi , Liu Shuyi , Chen Luyan , You Jingjing , Jin Zhe , Tang Binghang , Dong Di , Zhang Shuixing
Published: August 2020

Background

Distant metastasis is the primary cause of treatment failure in locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LANPC).

Purpose

To develop a model to evaluate distant metastasis‐free survival (DMFS) in LANPC and to explore the value of additional chemotherapy to concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for different risk groups.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

In all, 233 patients with biopsy‐confirmed nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) from two hospitals.

Field Strength

1.5T and 3T.

Sequence

Axial T2‐weighted (T2‐w) and contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted (CET1‐w) images.

Assessment

Deep learning was used to build a model based on MRI images (including axial T2‐w and CET1‐w images) and clinical variables. Hospital 1 patients were randomly divided into training (n = 169) and validation (n = 19) cohorts; Hospital 2 patients were assigned to a testing cohort (n = 45). LANPC patients were divided into low‐ and high‐risk groups according to their DMFS (P < 0.05). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was performed to compare the DMFS of different risk groups and subgroup analysis was performed to compare patients treated with CCRT alone and treated with additional chemotherapy to CCRT in different risk groups, respectively.

Statistical Tests

Univariate analysis was performed to identify significant clinical variables. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was used to assess the model performance.

Results

Our deep‐learning model integrating the deep‐learning signature, node (N) stage (from TNM staging), plasma Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐DNA, and treatment regimens yielded an AUC of 0.796 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.729–0.863), 0.795 (95% CI: 0.540–1.000), and 0.808 (95% CI: 0.654–0.962) in the training, internal validation, and external testing cohorts, respectively. Low‐risk patients treated with CCRT alone had longer DMFS than patients treated with additional chemotherapy to CCRT (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

The proposed deep‐learning model, based on MRI features and clinical variates, facilitated the prediction of DMFS in LANPC patients.

Level of Evidence

3.

Technical Efficacy Stage

4.
COVID‐19 related immune hemolysis and thrombocytopenia
Authors: Sahu Kamal Kant , Borogovac Azra , Cerny Jan
Published: August 2020

The current pandemic due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has posed an unprecedented challenge for the medical communities, various countries worldwide, and their citizens. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has been studied for its various pathophysiological pathways and mechanisms through which it causes COVID‐19. In this study, we discussed the immunological impact of COVID‐19 on the hematological system, platelets, and red blood cells.
Apigenin suppresses influenza A virus‐induced RIG‐I activation and viral replication
Authors: Xu Xiaohong , Miao Jing , Shao Qingliang , Gao Yue , Hong Luojia
Published: August 2020

Apigenin is a flavonoid of low toxicity and multiple beneficial bioactivities, including the properties of antitumor, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiviral activities. However, the effects of Apigenin on influenza virus infection remain poorly understood. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Apigenin on influenza A virus (IAV)‐induced inflammation and viral replication. This study demonstrated that Apigenin treatment significantly suppressed IAV‐induced upregulation of retinoic acid‐inducible gene‐I (RIG‐I) expression, as well as the production of proinflammatory cytokines and interferons (IFN‐β and IFN‐λ1). Meanwhile, Apigenin also protected cells from IAV‐induced cell death. In addition, Apigenin specifically inhibited the activation of RIG‐I signaling via promoting the ubiquitin‐mediated degradation of RIG‐I, which may cause by the disrupting its interaction with heat shock protein 90α. Interestingly, instead of enhancing viral replication due to the inhibitory effects of Apigenin on the activation of RIG‐I and expression of IFNs, Apigenin inhibited IAV replication in vitro. Further study demonstrated that Apigenin inhibited the influenza viral neuraminidase (NA) activity. Thus, Apigenin may serve as a promising supplementary approach for treatment of influenza because it protected cells from IAV‐induced cell death and inhibited viral NA activity to suppress viral replication.
Early administration of lopinavir/ritonavir plus hydroxychloroquine does not alter the clinical course of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Giacomelli Andrea , Pagani Gabriele , Ridolfo Anna L. , Oreni Letizia , Conti Federico , Pezzati Laura , Bradanini Lucia , Casalini Giacomo , Bassoli Cinzia , Morena Valentina , Passerini Simone , Rizzardini Giuliano , Cogliati Chiara , Ceriani Elisa , Colombo Riccardo , Rusconi Stefano , Gervasoni Cristina , Cattaneo Dario , Antinori Spinello , Galli Massimo
Published: August 2020

As it has been shown that lopinavir (LPV) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have in vitro activity against coronaviruses, they were used to treat COVID‐19 during the first wave of the epidemic in Lombardy, Italy. To compare the rate of clinical improvement between those who started LPV/ritonavir (LPV/r)+HCQ within 5 days of symptom onset (early treatment, ET) and those who started later (delayed treatment, DT). This was a retrospective intent‐to‐treat analysis of the hospitalized patients who started LPV/r + HCQ between 21 February and 20 March 2020. The association between the timing of treatment and the probability of 30‐day mortality was assessed using univariable and multivariable logistic models. The study involved 172 patients: 43 (25%) in the ET and 129 (75%) in the DT group. The rate of clinical improvement increased over time to 73.3% on day 30, without any significant difference between the two groups (Gray's test P = .213). After adjusting for potentially relevant clinical variables, there was no significant association between the timing of the start of treatment and the probability of 30‐day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] ET vs DT = 1.45, 95% confidence interval 0.50‐4.19). Eight percent of the patients discontinued the treatment becausebecause of severe gastrointestinal disorders attributable to LPV/r. The timing of the start of LPV/r + HCQ treatment does not seem to affect the clinical course of hospitalized patients with COVID‐19. Together with the severe adverse events attributable to LPV/r, this raises concerns about the benefit of using this combination to treat COVID‐19.
An efficient method to compute simplified noise parameters of analog amplifiers using symbolic and evolutionary approach
Authors: Panda Madhusmita , Patnaik Santosh K. , Mal Ashis K.
Published: August 2020

Symbolic circuit analysis suffers as the symbolic terms increases by many folds with the increase in the size of the circuit. Hence simplification techniques are used for the analysis of the circuits which are larger in size. In this work, multi‐objective evolutionary optimisation algorithms for obtaining simplified symbolic expressions of analog amplifier circuits are presented which are not only very efficient in terms of speed and the amount of circuit reduction but also solve the accuracy problems. Initially, all MOSFETs are replaced with their nullor equivalent model. Then, the formulation of accurate fully‐symbolic noise expressions is carried out by the application of symbolic nodal analysis. The derived exact symbolic expressions are then simplified using an evolutionary approach. This method has been successfully coded in MATLAB. The numerical results obtained before and after simplification are compared with SPICE simulation to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed methodology.
Effect of doping on the local structure of new block‐layered proton conductors based on BaLaInO4
Authors: Tarasova N. , Animitsa I. , Galisheva A.
Published: August 2020

In this work, the effect of acceptor of La3+‐sublattice and donor of In3+‐sublattice doping on the local structure of proton conductor BaLaInO4 with block‐layered Ruddlesden–Popper structure was investigated. It was showed that both types of doping led to appearance of new kinds of the defects (oxygen vacancy and oxygen interstitial) and to the decrease in the tilting angles of [InO6] octahedra due to the expansion of unit cell in the ab direction. The formation of a less distorted structure provided facilitated oxygen‐ionic and protonic transport and increased ionic conductivity.
Enantioselective residue analysis of oxathiapiprolin and its metabolite in tea and other crops by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Xinzhong , Sun Hezhi , Wang Xinru , Li Hongxia , Zhong Qing , Luo Fengjian , Chen Zongmao
Published: August 2020

Oxathiapiprolin is the first chiral piperidinyl thiazole isoxazoline fungicide developed to control downy mildew and other diseases, and there were no prior reports on its enantiomeric residue. In this study, a modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe extraction and purification method followed by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry determination was first developed and validated for the residue analysis of oxathiapiprolin enantiomers and its metabolite IN‐E8S72 in green tea and other crops. Oxathiapiprolin enantiomers and IN‐E8S72 were separated on a chiral Lux Cellulose‐3 column with the use of 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile and 5 mmol/L ammonium acetate in water as mobile phases. IN‐E8S72 was eluted first, followed by (−)‐oxathiapiprolin, and then (+)‐oxathiapiprolin. The recoveries ranged from 53.3 to 125.3% with relative standard deviations ranging from 1.4 to 16.0%. The limits of quantification for (−)‐oxathiapiprolin and (+)‐oxathiapiprolin were 0.005 mg/kg in romaine lettuce, head cabbage, potato, grape, and garlic, 0.01 mg/kg in soybean and pea, and 0.025 mg/kg in green tea and dry pepper. The limits of quantification of IN‐E8S72 were twice those of (−)‐oxathiapiprolin. Screening results with real market samples indicated that there was no enantiomeric excess in the oxathiapiprolin residue in romaine lettuce.
Coverage for Gender‐Affirming Voice Surgery and Therapy for Transgender Individuals
Authors: DeVore Elliana K. , Gadkaree Shekhar K. , Richburg Kayla , Banaszak Elizabeth M. , Wang Tiffany V. , Naunheim Matthew R. , Shaye David A.
Published: August 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine insurance coverage for gender‐affirming surgery and voice therapy for individuals who seek to align their voice with their gender identity, and to analyze differences based on state‐by‐state transgender equality.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Policies from the top three commercial insurers per state in 2019 were reviewed. Coverage status was determined by web‐based search, telephone interviews, and email inquiries. A state‐by‐state equality score was calculated based on the number of laws and policies relating to the transgender community. Correlation between number of preauthorized procedures and state equality scores was assessed.

Results

Of the 150 insurance companies reviewed, only four (2.7%) held favorable policies, whereas 113 (75.8%) provided no coverage. Endoscopic surgery, open surgery, individual voice therapy, and group voice therapy interventions were equally excluded (n = 93, 62.4%). Coverage was not correlated with laws driving transgender equality (P = .782).

Conclusions

Gender‐affirming voice interventions are seldom covered by commercial insurance companies. Despite established medical necessity and years of experience in practice, gender‐affirming interventions for voice have not yet been fully considered by third‐party payors. Further investigation regarding cost‐effectiveness and treatment efficacy is warranted to improve insurance coverage of voice‐related gender‐affirming care.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E896–E902, 2021
The APOA5‐rs662799 Polymorphism Is a Determinant of Dyslipidemia in Vietnamese Primary School Children
Authors: Hanh Nguyen T. H. , Nhung Bui T. , Hop Le T. , Tuyet Le T. , Dao Duong T. A. , Thu Nguyen T. T. , Binh Tran Quang
Published: August 2020

Apolipoprotein A‐V encoded by apolipoprotein 5 (APOA5) gene plays an important role in lipid metabolism, especially in the regulation of plasma triglycerol levels. The study aimed to evaluate the association of the APOA5‐rs662799 polymorphism with dyslipidemia in Vietnamese children and the potential modification of obesity‐related traits (body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist‐to‐hip ratio) on this association. A case–control study was conducted with a total of 154 dyslipidemia cases and 389 controls at the age of 6 to 10 recruited at 31 primary schools in Hanoi city of Vietnam. Genotype for APOA5‐rs662799 polymorphism was determined by the restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. The association of APOA5‐rs662799 polymorphism with dyslipidemia adjusting for age, sex, residence, and obesity‐related traits was analyzed by binary logistic regression analysis. The results showed that in comparison with T/T and T/C carriers, the C/C carriers had a higher concentration of serum TAG in cases (p =0.049). Carriers of the C allele (C/C + T/C) had higher risk for developing dyslipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia than subjects with T/T genotype (odds ratio, OR = 1.7, p =0.0062 and OR = 1.6, p = 0.026, respectively). The association remained significant after adjusting for age, gender, residence, and obesity status (OR = 1.75, p = 0.006 and OR = 1.53, p = 0.049, respectively) or other obesity‐related traits. The study suggested that the APOA5‐rs662799 polymorphism may be a determinant of dyslipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia in Vietnamese children, independent of obesity‐related traits.
Low Power Reconfigurability and Reduced Crosstalk in Integrated Photonic Circuits Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser Micromachining
Authors: Ceccarelli Francesco , Atzeni Simone , Pentangelo Ciro , Pellegatta Francesco , Crespi Andrea , Osellame Roberto
Published: August 2020

Femtosecond laser writing is a powerful technique that allows rapid and cost‐effective fabrication of photonic integrated circuits with unique 3D geometries. In particular, the possibility to reconfigure such devices by thermo‐optic phase shifters represents a paramount feature, exploited to produce adaptive and programmable circuits. However, the scalability is strongly limited by the flaws of current thermal phase shifters, which require hundreds of milliwatts to operate and exhibit large thermal crosstalk. In this work, thermally‐insulating 3D microstructures are exploited to decrease the power needed to induce a 2π phase shift down to 37 mW and to reduce the crosstalk to a few percent. Further improvement is demonstrated when operating in vacuum, with sub‐milliwatt power dissipation and negligible crosstalk. These results pave the way toward the demonstration of complex programmable integrated photonic circuits fabricated by femtosecond laser writing, thus opening exciting perspectives in integrated quantum photonics.
Hybrid Hydrogel Networks by Photocrosslinking of Thermoresponsive α,ω‐Itaconyl‐PLGA‐PEG‐PLGA Micelles in Water: Influence of the Lithium Phenyl‐2,4,6‐Trimethylbenzoylphosphinate Photoinitinator
Authors: Zahoranova Anna , Vojtova Lucy , Dusicka Eva , Michlovska Lenka , Krivankova Nikola , Baudis Stefan
Published: August 2020

Modification of thermogelling biodegradable copolymers with functional groups enables further covalent crosslinking of physical micelle‐based hydrogels formed at specific temperature in water. The resulting hybrid hydrogel network exhibits an increase in stiffness and degradation stability. In this work, synthesized well‐defined thermoresponsive α,ω‐itaconyl‐poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (α,ω‐itaconyl‐PLGA‐PEG‐PLGA) macromonomers with a high degree of itaconyl‐substitution providing free double bonds are photocrosslinked in water at both 25 and 37 °C using lithium phenyl‐2,4,6‐trimethylbenzoylphosphinate (LiTPO) acting as water‐soluble non‐toxic photoinitiator. The effect of LiTPO on the thixotropic behavior of macromonomer in water at 25 °C without irradiation is evaluated. With the addition of a low amount of the photoinitiator (0.1 wt%), the degree of copolymer thixotropy increases. However, further increase in the photoinitiator concentration (0.5–3 wt%) leads to a lower degree of thixotropy. The photoinitiator is presumably interfering with the micellar self‐assembly of the copolymer. This trend is also reflected in photocrosslinking efficiency, where the hybrid hydrogel networks with the highest storage moduli are achieved with very low concentrations of the photoinitiator (0.1 wt%) at 25 °C, while this trend is reversed at 37 °C. The hydrolytic stability of hydrogels prepared at 37 °C from 17 wt% macromonomer solution with 1% LiTPO exceeds 22 days.
Preparation of Giant Polymersomes via Inkjet Printing and Confined Geometry Hydration Applied to Micropipette Aspiration Experiments
Authors: Solis‐Gonzalez Obed Andres , Tse Christopher Chi Wai , Smith Patrick J. , Fairclough John Patrick A.
Published: August 2020

A novel facile approach to creating many localized giant polymersomes (GPs) (vesicles) is developed. This method allows for the easy capture and testing of the bulk properties of the GPs. Inkjet printing is shown to produce vesicles of a non‐ionic block copolymer, poly(ethylene oxide)16‐poly(butylene oxide)22 (E16B22). The printer deposits a polymer solution (i.e., water/glucose/polymer) on a hydrophobic glass slide. Upon drying, glucose is left between polymer lamellar. Subsequent hydration of the sample dissolves glucose, and as a result, a concentration gradient is generated, which provides the energy necessary for separating the neutral polymer layers. After about 2 h in water, GPs are observed and are free of organic solvents. This novel methodology provides for the efficient formation of localized GPs. The distribution of the solution allows for a metered approach to releasing the GPs. This combination facilitates the collection of vesicles for micropipette aspiration experiments.
Hardy spaces for the Dunkl harmonic oscillator
Authors: Hejna Agnieszka
Published: August 2020

Let Δ and be the Dunkl Laplacian and the Dunkl harmonic oscillator respectively. We define the Hardy space associated with the Dunkl harmonic oscillator by means of the nontangential maximal function with respect to the semigroup . We prove that the space admits characterizations by relevant Riesz transforms and atomic decompositions. The atoms which occur in the atomic decompositions are of local type.
Frozen‐State Polymerization as a Tool in Conductivity Enhancement of Polypyrrole
Authors: Minisy Islam M. , Bober Patrycja
Published: August 2020

Polypyrrole (PPy) is oxidatively polymerized in the frozen state at −24 °C in the presence of various organic dyes as morphology guiding agents in order to form homogeneous 1D PPy nanoforms. The freezing polymerization of pyrrole has a significant influence on the electrical conductivity and thermal stability but negligible influence on the yield compared to widely used room temperature polymerization.
Time delays in dyadic interactions on the example of relations between optimists and pessimists
Authors: Foryś Urszula , Jankowska Natalia , Cytlak Katarzyna , Piotrowska Monika Joanna
Published: August 2020

In this paper, a delayed model of interactions between two actors in the context of their internal optimism and pessimism is studied. Considered model is based on the model proposed earlier in the context of romantic relationships. With the use of the system of nonlinear delay differential equations, we describe the change of emotions of two actors. Delays in the inertial component and in the influence function are introduced, and their influence on the system dynamics is investigated focusing on most beneficial meetings for actors. Finally, the modified systems are compared with the nondelayed case, and results are illustrated by numerical solutions for particular investigated scenarios.
The class of evolutionary ferrodynamic equations
Authors: Virchenko Yu. P. , Subbotin A. V.
Published: August 2020

The class
of evolutionary equations for axial vector fields on
is described. All operators of the class are invariant with respect to space translations in
, relative to time translations, and they are transformed by covariant way relative to rotations of
. The class
of second‐order differential operators is studied such that the corresponding evolution equations have the divergent type and each of them preserves the solenoidal property and the unimodality of the field. The explicit form of such operators is found.
Compact quasi‐Newton preconditioners for symmetric positive definite linear systems
Authors: Bergamaschi Luca , Marín José , Martínez Ángeles
Published: August 2020

In this paper, preconditioners for the conjugate gradient method are studied to solve the Newton system with symmetric positive definite Jacobian. In particular, we define a sequence of preconditioners built by means of Symmetric Rank one (SR1) and Broyden‐Fletcher‐Goldfarb‐Shanno (BFGS) low‐rank updates. We develop conditions under which the SR1 update maintains the preconditioner symmetric positive definite. Spectral analysis of the SR1 preconditioned Jacobians shows an improved eigenvalue distribution as the Newton iteration proceeds. A compact matrix formulation of the preconditioner update is developed which reduces the cost of its application and is more suitable to parallel implementation. Some notes on the implementation of the corresponding Inexact Newton method are given and some numerical results on a number of model problems illustrate the efficiency of the proposed preconditioners.
High accuracy nonconforming biharmonic element over n‐rectangular meshes
Authors: Zhou Xinchen , Meng Zhaoliang
Published: August 2020

This work gives the high accuracy analysis of a rectangular biharmonic element in arbitrarily high‐dimensional cases. Given an n‐rectangle, we construct the nonconforming finite element and show its explicit standard basis representation. We prove that, if the n‐rectangular mesh is uniform, this element can achieve a second order convergence rate in energy norm when applied to biharmonic problems. Numerical examples for n = 3 are also presented.
Numerical approach to chaotic pattern formation in diffusive predator–prey system with Caputo fractional operator
Authors: Owolabi Kolade M.
Published: August 2020

This paper is primarily concern with the formulation and analysis of a reliable numerical method based on the novel alternating direction implicit finite difference scheme for the solution of the fractional reaction–diffusion system. In the work, the integer first‐order derivative in time is replaced with the Caputo fractional derivative operator. As a case study, the dynamics of predator–prey model is considered. In order to provide a good guidelines on the correct choice of parameters for the numerical simulation of full fractional reaction–diffusion system, its linear stability analysis is also examined. The resulting scheme is applied to solve both self‐diffusion and cross‐diffusion problems in two‐dimensions. We observed in the experimental results a range of spatiotemporal and chaotic structures that are related to Turing pattern. It was also discovered in the simulations that cross‐diffusive case gives rise to spatial patterns faster than the diffusive case. Apart from chaotic spiral‐like structures obtained in this work, it should also be mentioned that Turing patterns such as stationary spots and stripes are obtainable, depending on the initial and parameters choices.
Primary follicular lymphoma of buccal mucosa: A case report
Authors: Shimada Yasuyuki , Nakamura Fumihiko , Shinozaki‐Ushiku Aya , Igari Toru , Maruoka Yutaka
Published: August 2020

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a non‐Hodgkin lymphoma subtype arising from the neoplastic proliferation of germinal center B‐cells. Typically, FL occurs in the lymph nodes, and its solitary primary manifestation in the oral cavity (OFL) is rare. Here we describe a case of primary FL of the buccal mucosa in a 61‐year‐old woman; the prognosis following treatment with chemotherapy and radiotherapy was good. A literature review revealed that the oral cavity might be a key organ with high probability of having early‐stage FL. This report highlights the OFL features and importance of proper diagnosis and timely treatment to improve prognosis.
Dielectric behavior of thin films of unsaturated polyester‐resin/carbon nanotube semiconductor composites
Authors: Hochma Efrat , Narkis Moshe
Published: August 2020

Since the discovery of carbon nanotubes (CNT), numerous studies have focused on the development of materials combining CNT with polymer composites to exploit both CNT's remarkable characteristics and the complimentary properties of polymer thin films. In particular, unsaturated polyester resin (UPR) and CNT composite materials have not been studied before. Here we develop and characterize a UPR/CNT‐based capacity resistor gas sensor and apply it on THF vapor. The CNT's high aspect ratio provides the composite with better electrical and mechanical performance than other realizations, such as carbon black. We identify and quantify THF in a wide range of operation frequencies, under SATP conditions, as functions of the vertical distance, sample volume and operation frequency. High sensitivity, reversibility and fast response to the dielectric vapor exposure in microliter volumes are achieved. The results are also analyzed in terms of the possible mechanisms relating to THF/sensor interactions, with good correspondence between the model and measured data.
A comparison of trends in opioid dispensing patterns between Medicaid pharmacy claims and prescription drug monitoring program data
Authors: El Ibrahimi Sanae , Hallvik Sara , Johnston Kirbee , Leichtling Gillian , Choo Esther , Hartung Daniel M.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Public and private payers have implemented benefit limitations to reduce high‐risk opioid prescriptions. The effect of these policies on the increase of out‐pocket payment is unclear. To understand this gap, we compared the discrepancies in trends between opioid prescription fills vs claims among Medicaid beneficiaries.

Methods

Data from the Oregon Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) and Oregon Medicaid administrative claims were used to identify Medicaid beneficiaries 18 years and older enrolled at least one full month from 2015 to 2017. Generalized linear models assessed the trends in the monthly rates of opioid PDMP prescription fills and pharmacy claims per 1000 eligible members. Rates by morphine equivalent dose (MED) tier (<50, 50‐89, 90‐120, >120 MED) and co‐prescribed opioid and benzodiazepine were also assessed.

Results

During the study period, an average of 495 355 Medicaid members had 2 797 054 opioid PDMP fills and 2 472 155 opioid Medicaid pharmacy claims. Study participants had 15.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.6 to 17.0; P < .001) more prescriptions per 1000 member per month in the PDMP data (114.1 [SD 7.4]) compared with the Medicaid claims data (98.7 [SD 7.9]). Similarly, there were 1.9 more co‐occurring opioid/benzodiazepine prescriptions per 1000 members per month observed in the PDMP data than the Medicaid claims data (95% CI 1.7 to 2.1; P < .001). At each MED tier, the PDMP fills were consistently higher than the claims (P < .001).

Conclusions

Higher rate of fills in the PDMP compared to pharmacy claims suggests that there may be an increasing trend of out‐of‐pocket payment among Medicaid beneficiaries.
Cold acclimation has a differential effect on leaf vascular bundle structure and carbon export rates in natural Arabidopsis accessions originating from southern and northern Europe
Authors: Schneider Katja , Abazaj Lorena , Niemann Cornelia , Schröder Laura , Nägele Thomas
Published: August 2020

Acclimation to low but non‐freezing temperature represents an ecologically important process for Arabidopsis thaliana but also for many other plant species from temperate regions. Cold acclimation comprises and affects numerous molecular and physiological processes and the maintenance of sugar supply of sink tissue by photosynthetically active source tissue is essential for plant survival. Here, changes in vascular bundle (VB) structure at the leaf petiole were analysed together with sucrose exudation rates before and after cold acclimation. Six natural Arabidopsis accessions originating from southern and northern Europe were compared. Photosynthetic efficiency, that is, maximum and effective quantum yield of photosystem II, revealed a significant effect of environmental condition. Only for northern accessions was a highly significant negative correlation observed between leaf sucrose exudation rates, xylem, and petiole cross‐sectional areas. Furthermore, only for northern accessions was a significant increase of VB and leaf petiole cross‐sectional area observed during cold acclimation. In contrast, variance of cross‐sectional areas of cold acclimated southern accessions was strongly reduced compared to control plants, while mean areas remained similar under both conditions. In summary, these findings suggest that natural Arabidopsis accessions from northern Europe significantly adjust sink strength and leaf VB structure to maintain plant growth and photosynthesis under low temperature.
Recognition of LD motifs by the focal adhesion targeting domains of focal adhesion kinase and proline‐rich tyrosine kinase 2‐beta: Insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Michael Eleni , Polydorides Savvas , Promponas Vasilis J. , Skourides Paris , Archontis Georgios
Published: August 2020

The focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and the proline‐rich tyrosine kinase 2‐beta (PYK2) are implicated in cancer progression and metastasis and represent promising biomarkers and targets for cancer therapy. FAK and PYK2 are recruited to focal adhesions (FAs) via interactions between their FA targeting (FAT) domains and conserved segments (LD motifs) on the proteins Paxillin, Leupaxin, and Hic‐5. A promising new approach for the inhibition of FAK and PYK2 targets interactions of the FAK domains with proteins that promote localization at FAs. Advances toward this goal include the development of surface plasmon resonance, heteronuclear single quantum coherence nuclear magnetic resonance (HSQC‐NMR) and fluorescence polarization assays for the identification of fragments or compounds interfering with the FAK‐Paxillin interaction. We have recently validated this strategy, showing that Paxillin mimicking polypeptides with 2 to 3 LD motifs displace FAK from FAs and block kinase‐dependent and independent functions of FAK, including downstream integrin signaling and FA localization of the protein p130Cas. In the present work we study by all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations the recognition of peptides with the Paxillin and Leupaxin LD motifs by the FAK‐FAT and PYK2‐FAT domains. Our simulations and free‐energy analysis interpret experimental data on binding of Paxillin and Leupaxin LD motifs at FAK‐FAT and PYK2‐FAT binding sites, and assess the roles of consensus LD regions and flanking residues. Our results can assist in the design of effective inhibitory peptides of the FAK‐FAT: Paxillin and PYK2‐FAT:Leupaxin complexes and the construction of pharmacophore models for the discovery of potential small‐molecule inhibitors of the FAK‐FAT and PYK2‐FAT focal adhesion based functions.
Implementation of tripartite estimands using adherence causal estimators under the causal inference framework
Authors: Qu Yongming , Luo Junxiang , Ruberg Stephen J.
Published: August 2020

Intercurrent events (ICEs) and missing values are inevitable in clinical trials of any size and duration, making it difficult to assess the treatment effect for all patients in randomized clinical trials. Defining the appropriate estimand that is relevant to the clinical research question is the first step in analyzing data. The tripartite estimands, which evaluate the treatment differences in the proportion of patients with ICEs due to adverse events, the proportion of patients with ICEs due to lack of efficacy, and the primary efficacy outcome for those who can adhere to study treatment under the causal inference framework, are of interest to many stakeholders in understanding the totality of treatment effects. In this manuscript, we discuss the details of how to estimate tripartite estimands based on a causal inference framework and how to interpret tripartite estimates through a phase 3 clinical study evaluating a basal insulin treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes.
Quality control for a detected an appropriate queue from K‐independent M/M/C/N queueing models
Authors: El‐Hadidy Mohamed Abd Allah
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we consider a system of K‐independent Markovian queues such that each one of them has a Poisson arrival process and exponential service time. We assume that every server has some characteristics such as the speed of the service performance or the service cost. To find an appropriate queue, which meets customer needs for the service performance, we present a new approach that gives a suitable decision to choose an appropriate queue from our system. This allows the customer to deal with minimum cost and faster server under steady state. We solve an interesting discrete stochastic optimization problem where the paid cost by the customer is bounded by a Gaussian distribution. Using these hypotheses, we perform a simulation study by generating the paid cost random values and choosing the minimum value between them. This minimum cost gives the highest service rate, which is used to obtain the optimum values of the system effectiveness measures.
Monitoring reliability for a gamma distribution with a double progressive mean control chart
Authors: Alevizakos Vasileios , Koukouvinos Christos
Published: August 2020

Control charting technique for time between events (TBE) is very important in high‐yield processes for monitoring reliability. For a regularly maintained system, the interfailure times can be modeled by a gamma distribution. This article proposes a new control chart based on the double progressive mean statistic for monitoring the time between k (≥1) failures of a maintained gamma distributed system (referred as DPM‐TBE chart). The performance of the proposed scheme is measured in terms of the average run‐length (ARL) for the case when the scale parameter is known as well as when it is unknown and is estimated from an in‐control (IC) reference sample. A comparison study with other TBE charts shows that the DPM‐TBE chart is more effective. In addition, the proposed chart is shown to be very robust for large shifts when the true distribution of time between failures is a Weibull or a lognormal. Finally, an illustrative example is given to demonstrate the implementation of the proposed chart.
Why is temperature sensitivity important for the success of common respiratory viruses?
Authors: Eccles Ronald
Published: August 2020

This review explores the idea that temperature sensitivity is an important factor in determining the success of respiratory viruses as human parasites. The review discusses several questions. What is viral temperature sensitivity? At what range of temperatures are common respiratory viruses sensitive? What is the mechanism for their temperature sensitivity? What is the range of temperature along the human airway? What is it that makes respiratory viruses such successful parasites of the human airway? What is the role of temperature sensitivity in respiratory zoonoses? A definition of temperature sensitivity is proposed, as “the property of a virus to replicate poorly or not at all, at the normal body temperature of the host (restrictive temperature), but to replicate well at the lower temperatures found in the upper airway of the host (permissive temperature).” Temperature sensitivity may influence the success of a respiratory virus in several ways. Firstly; by restricting the infection to the upper airways and reducing the chance of systemic infection that may reduce host mobility and increase mortality, and thus limit the spread of the virus. Secondly; by causing a mild upper airway illness with a limited immune response compared to systemic infection, which means that persistent herd immunity does not develop to the same extent as with systemic infections, and re‐infection may occur later. Thirdly; infection of the upper airway triggers local reflex rhinorrhea, coughing and sneezing which aid the exit of the virus from the host and the spread of infection in the community.
Group sequential designs for clinical trials with bivariate endpoints
Authors: Hu Junxiao , Blatchford Patrick J. , Goldenberg Neil A. , Kittelson John M.
Published: August 2020

Although all clinical trials are designed and monitored using more than one endpoint, methods are needed to assure that decision criteria are chosen to reflect the clinically relevant tradeoffs that assure the trial's scientific integrity. This article presents a framework for the design and monitoring clinical trials in a bivariate outcome space. The framework uses a rectangular hyperbola to define a bivariate null curve that divides outcome space into regions of benefit and lack of benefit. The curve is shown to be a flexible mapping of bivariate space that allows a continuous tradeoff between the two endpoints in a manner that captures many previous bivariate designs. The curve is extended to a distance function in bivariate space that allows different decisions in each of the four quadrants that comprise bivariate space. The distance function forms a statistic (); the distribution of its estimate is derived and used as a basis for trial design and group sequential monitoring plans in bivariate space. A recursive form of the bivariate group sequential density is used to evaluate and control operating characteristics for the proposed design. The bivariate designs are shown to meet or exceed the usual standards for size and power. The proposed design is illustrated in the ongoing NHLBI‐sponsored Kids‐DOTT multinational randomized controlled trial comparing shortened versus conventional anticoagulation for the treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients less than 21 years of age. The proposed methods are broadly applicable to a wide range of clinical settings and trial designs.
Incorporating pragmatic features into power analysis for cluster randomized trials with a count outcome
Authors: Li Dateng , Zhang Song , Cao Jing
Published: August 2020

Cluster randomized designs are frequently employed in pragmatic clinical trials which test interventions in the full spectrum of everyday clinical settings in order to maximize applicability and generalizability. In this study, we propose to directly incorporate pragmatic features into power analysis for cluster randomized trials with count outcomes. The pragmatic features considered include arbitrary randomization ratio, overdispersion, random variability in cluster size, and unequal lengths of follow‐up over which the count outcome is measured. The proposed method is developed based on generalized estimating equation (GEE) and it is advantageous in that the sample size formula retains a closed form, facilitating its implementation in pragmatic trials. We theoretically explore the impact of various pragmatic features on sample size requirements. An efficient Jackknife algorithm is presented to address the problem of underestimated variance by the GEE sandwich estimator when the number of clusters is small. We assess the performance of the proposed sample size method through extensive simulation and an application example to a real clinical trial is presented.
Ultrathin VSe2 Nanosheets with Fast Ion Diffusion and Robust Structural Stability for Rechargeable Zinc‐Ion Battery Cathode
Authors: Wu Zeyi , Lu Chengjie , Wang Yanan , Zhang Lin , Jiang Le , Tian Wenchao , Cai Cailing , Gu Qinfen , Sun Zhengming , Hu Linfeng
Published: August 2020

The realizing of high‐performance rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) with high energy density and long cycling life is promising but still challenging due to the lack of suitable layered cathode materials. The work reports the excellent zinc‐ion storage performance as‐observed in few‐layered ultrathin VSe2 nanosheets with a two‐step Zn2+ intercalation/de‐intercalation mechanism verified by ex situ X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterizations. The VSe2 nanosheets exhibit a discharge plateau at 1.0–0.7 V, a specific capacity of 131.8 mAh g−1 (at 0.1 A g−1), and a high energy density of 107.3 Wh kg−1 (at a power density of 81.2 W kg−1). More importantly, outstanding cycle stability (capacity retention of 80.8% after 500 cycles) without any activation process is achieved. Such a prominent cyclic stability should be attributed to its fast Zn2+ diffusion kinetics (DZn2+ ≈ 10−8 cm−2 s−1) and robust structural/crystalline stability. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation further reveals a strong metallic characteristic and optimal zinc‐ion diffusion pathway with a hopping energy barrier of 0.91 eV. The present finding implies that 2D ultrathin VSe2 is a very promising cathode material in ZIBs with remarkable battery performance superior to other layered transitional metal dichalcogenides.