bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on horizontal and deviated wellbore cleanout by hole cleaning device using CFD approach
Authors: Yan Tie , Qu Jingyu , Sun Xiaofeng , Li Zijian , Li Wei
Published: April 2019

The application of the hole cleaning device in downhole is a new technology for removing cuttings bed, and it can increase the efficiency of cuttings transport. This paper mainly studies the effects of the helical angle and the rotational speed of the blade of the hole cleaning device on the swirl strength of decaying swirl flow and drilled cuttings deposition behavior. A three‐dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is established using the Eulerian‐Eulerian two‐fluid model, Realizable k‐ε turbulence model, and Sliding Mesh technique for simulating the two‐phase fluid flow. The results have been compared with available data in the literature, and a good agreement is found. In order to understand the decay behavior of the swirl flow along the flow direction, the initial swirl strength, the swirl number, and the decay rate of swirl are analyzed in detail in single phase. The effects of the swirl flow induced by the blade on the deposition behavior of drilled cuttings under different rotational speed and helical angle are studied. A new deposition index is used to evaluate the effective distance and hole cleaning efficiency of the swirl flow under various parameters. It has been observed that using the hole cleaning device can improve the hole cleaning performance. The research results of this paper is instructive to the design of the hole cleaning device using in the drilling engineering.
Revisiting the morphological method in two‐dimensions to quantify bed‐material transport in braided rivers
Authors: Antoniazza Gilles , Bakker Maarten , Lane Stuart N.
Published: April 2019

Research in the 1990s showed that bed‐material transport rates could be estimated at the reach scale in both one‐dimension and, over small spatial scales (10s of m), in two‐dimensions. The limit on the latter was the spatial scale over which it was possible to obtain distributed data on morphological change. Here, we revisit the morphological method given progress in both topographical data acquisition and hydraulic modelling. The bed‐material transport needed to conserve mass is calculated in both one and two dimensions for a 1600 m × 300 m Alpine braided river “laboratory”. High‐resolution topographical data were acquired by laser scanning to quantify Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), and morphological changes caused by the flushing of the water intake were derived from repeated surveys. Based on DEMs of differences, 1D bed‐material transport rates were calculated using the morphological method. Then, a 2D hydraulic model was combined with a topographic correction to route sediment through the network of braided channels and to obtain a spatially variable estimate of transport in both downstream and cross‐stream directions. Monte Carlo simulation was applied to the routing model parameters, allowing identification of the most probable parameter values needed to minimize negative transport. The results show that within‐section spatial compensation of erosion and deposition using the 1D treatment leads to substantial local errors in transport rate estimates, to a degree related to braiding intensity. Even though the 2D application showed that a large proportion of the total transport was actually concentrated into one main channel during the studied low flow event, the proportion of transport in secondary anabranches is substantial when the river starts braiding. Investigations of the effects of DEM resolution, competent flow duration and survey frequency related to ‘travelling bedload’ and sequential erosion‐deposition emphasized the critical importance of careful data collection in the application of the morphological method. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SSDs Revisited: Part I—A Framework for Sample Size Guidance on Species Sensitivity Distribution Analysis
Authors: Carr G.J. , Belanger S.E.
Published: April 2019

We propose a framework on sample size for species sensitivity distribution (SSD) analyses, with perspectives on Bayesian, frequentist, and even nonparametric approaches to estimation. The intent of a statistical sample size analysis is to ensure that the implementation of a statistical model will satisfy a minimum performance standard when relevant conditions are met. It requires that a statistical model be fully specified and that the means of measuring its performance as a function of sample size be detailed. Defining the model conditions under which sample size is calculated is often the most difficult, and important, aspect of sample size analysis because if the model is not representative, then the sample size analysis will provide incorrect guidance. Definitive guidance on sample size requires general agreement on representative models and their performance from stakeholders in important domains such as chemical safety assessments involving government regulators and industry; the present study provides an initial framework that could be used to this end in the future. In addition, our analysis provides immediate value for understanding how well current SSD analyses perform under a few basic models, sample sizes, and quantitative performance criteria. The results confirm that many analyses are adequately sized to estimate hazardous concentration percentile values (typically the 5th percentile for chemical hazard assessments). However, on the low end of sizes seen in common practice, hazardous concentration estimates can be more than 1 order of magnitude greater than the model-defined value. Environ Toxicol Chem 2019;38:1514–1525. © 2019 SETAC
Chiral Aggregates of Triphenylamine‐Based Dyes for Depleting the Production of Hydrogen Peroxide in the Photochemical Water‐Splitting Process
Authors: Adelizzi Beatrice , Rösch Andreas T. , van Rijen Daan J. , Martire R. Simone , Esiner Serkan , Lutz Martin , Palmans Anja R. A. , Meijer E. W.
Published: April 2019

Recent studies on water‐splitting photoelectrochemical cells (PECs) have demonstrated the intriguing possibility of controlling the spin state in this chemical reaction to form H2 and O2 by exploiting the chirality of organic π‐conjugated supramolecular polymers. Although this fascinating phenomenon has been disclosed, the chiral supramolecular materials reported thus far are not optimized for acting as efficient photosensitizer for dye‐sensitized PECs. In this work we report on the design, synthesis, and characterization of chiral supramolecular aggregates based on C3‐symmetric triphenylamine‐based dyes that are able to both absorb visible light and control the spin state of the process. Variable temperature‐dependent spectroscopic measurements reveal the assembly process of the dyes and confirm the formation of chiral aggregates, both in solution as well as on solid supports. Photoelectrochemical measurements on TiO2‐based anodes validate the advantage of using chiral supramolecular aggregates as photosensitizer displaying higher photocurrent compared to achiral analogues. Moreover, fluorimetric tests for the quantification of the hydrogen peroxide produced, confirm the possibility of controlling the spin of the reaction exerting spin‐selection with chiral supramolecular polymers. These results represent a further step towards the next‐generation of organic‐based water‐splitting solar cells.
Application of environmental isotopes to identify recharge source, age, and renewability of phreatic water in Yinchuan Basin
Authors: Zhong Chenghao , Yang Qingchun , Ma Hongyun , Bian Jianmin , Zhang Sihong , Lu Xiaoguang
Published: April 2019

The accurate understanding of groundwater circulation pattern and its renewable capacity is vital for groundwater resource assessment and the rational exploitation and utilization of groundwater. Estimation of groundwater recharge is difficult in arid or semiarid area due to the low amount and variability of recharge. A combination of isotope investigation with hybrid model allows a direct calculation of renewability of the aquifer. In this paper, the phreatic water circulation pattern and its renewable capacity of phreatic water in Yinchuan Basin, a semiarid area located at the northwest China, are investigated by the application of environmental isotope method, which mainly focusses on the isotope characteristics of different water bodies, phreatic water isotope age, phreatic water circulation pattern, and phreatic water renewal rate. The results demonstrate that the two dominant recharge sources of groundwater in Yinchuan Basin, local atmospheric precipitation and Yellow River, account for 13% and 87%, respectively. The average residence time of phreatic water in Yinchuan Basin is about 48 years, and the average renewal rate is 3.38%/a. The results indicate that the phreatic water has a strong renewable capacity and the regeneration rate distribution is consistent with that indicated by isotope age.
microRNA‐193b protects against myocardial ischemia‐reperfusion injury in mouse by targeting mastermind‐like 1
Authors: Zhang Jinzhu , Niu Jingjing , Tian Baoqing , Zhao Meng
Published: April 2019

The current study aimed to explore the functions and roles of microRNA‐193b (miR‐193b) in the myocardium with ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury and a potential therapeutic method for myocardial I/R injury. The mice were subjected to myocardial I/R with or without miR‐193b pretreatment. The infarct size and myocardial enzymes were detected. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling assay was conducted to investigate the effect of miR‐193b on cardiomyocyte apoptosis. The expression levels of miR‐193b and mastermind‐like 1 (MAML1) were validated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. The results suggested that the miR‐193b expression level was significantly downregulated in the myocardium with I/R injury compared with control group. miR‐193b overexpression is able to reduce infarct size and myocardial enzymes after myocardial I/R injury. Furthermore, overexpression of miR‐193b could alleviate the apoptosis level after myocardial I/R injury. Taken together, the present study demonstrated that upregulated miRNA‐193b alleviated myocardial I/R injury via targeting MAML1.
Identification of natural compound inhibitors against PfDXR: A hybrid structure‐based molecular modeling approach and molecular dynamics simulation studies
Authors: Manhas Anu , Patel Dhaval , Lone Mohsin Y. , Jha Prakash C.
Published: April 2019

In the present contribution, multicomplex‐based pharmacophore studies were carried out on the structural proteome of Plasmodium falciparum 1‐deoxy‐D‐xylulose‐5‐phosphate reductoisomerase. Among the constructed models, a representative model with complementary features, accountable for the inhibition was used as a primary filter for the screening of database molecules. Auxiliary evaluations of the screened molecules were performed via drug‐likeness and molecular docking studies. Subsequently, the stability of the docked inhibitors was envisioned by molecular dynamics simulations, principle component analysis, and molecular mechanics‐Poisson‐Boltzmann surface area‐based free binding energy calculations. The stability assessment of the hits was done by comparing with the reference (beta‐substituted fosmidomycin analog, LC5) to prioritize more potent candidates. All the complexes showed stable dynamic behavior while three of them displayed higher binding free energy compared with the reference. The work resulted in the identification of the compounds with diverse scaffolds, which could be used as initial leads for the design of novel PfDXR inhibitors.
Family‐based Association between Allele T of rs4646536 in CYP27B1 and vitamin D deficiency
Authors: Yu Songcheng , Li Xing , Wang Yan , Mao Zhenxing , Xie Yuanchen , Zhang Lin , Wang Chongjian , Li Wenjie
Published: April 2019

Background

The circulating concentration of 25(OH)D is widely applied to indicate the vitamin D status, as the directly metabolic genes of 25(OH)D, CYP2R1, and CYP27B1 are associated with the concentration of 25(OH)D. However, the contributions of allelic transmission disequilibrium of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes to vitamin D deficiency remain unclear. We aimed at investigating the family‐based association between SNPs of CYP2R1 and CYP27B1 and vitamin D deficiency.

Method

First, SNPs selected in family‐based study were screened by a pilot case‐control study. Second, allelic transmissions of the selected SNPs were investigated with family‐based study (n = 880). Finally, associations between selected SNPs and the concentration of 25(OH)D were verified in siblings (n = 120).

Results

The results of the pilot case‐control study indicated that both CT and TT genotypes of rs4646536 in CYP27B1 could increase the susceptibility of vitamin D deficiency when compared with CC genotype. The adjusted ORs were 2.846 (95%CI 1.312‐6.174, P = 0.008) and 2.609 (95%CI 1.197‐5.687, P = 0.016), respectively. Furthermore, the results of family‐based association test suggested that there was transmission disequilibrium for allele T of rs4646536 in vitamin D deficiency families. In addition, the concentration of 25(OH)D3 for CC genotype was higher than CT genotype between siblings (P = 0.016).

Conclusions

Transmission disequilibrium of allele T of rs4646536 is associated with vitamin D deficiency.
Well‐being in Patients with Affective Disorders Compared to Nonclinical Participants: A Multi‐Model Evaluation of the Mental Health Continuum‐Short Form
Authors: Ferentinos Panagiotis , Yotsidi Vasiliki , Porichi Evgenia , Douzenis Athanassios , Papageorgiou Charalambos , Stalikas Anastassios
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The Mental Health Continuum‐Short Form (MHC‐SF), measuring emotional, social, and psychological well‐being, has scarcely been validated in clinical populations. We evaluated MHC‐SF in 203 patients with affective disorders and 163 nonclinical participants.

Method

Traditional confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), bifactor CFA, three‐factor exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM), and bifactor ESEM models were compared. Convergent/discriminant validity was tested against classic well‐being validators and current mood state.

Results

All three subscales were significantly lower in patients. Test‐retest reliability in patients was moderate. Bifactor ESEM fitted data best and displayed full scalar gender and partial scalar invariance across groups. Factor strength indices suggested that MHC‐SF is primarily unidimensional, especially in patients. However, subscales differed considerably on size, internal consistency, distinctness, discriminant validity, and temporal stability.

Conclusions

MHC‐SF was valid and reliable for monitoring well‐being in both clinical and nonclinical samples, but further research is needed before safely concluding on its dimensionality.
Longitudinal relations between trauma‐related psychological distress and physical aggression among urban early adolescents
Authors: Thompson Erin L. , Farrell Albert D.
Published: April 2019

There is convincing evidence that trauma‐related psychological distress and aggressive behavior are highly related among adolescents. The evidence is less clear regarding the direction of this relation.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine reciprocal longitudinal relations between trauma‐related distress and physical aggression.

Method: A predominantly African American sample of early adolescents (N = 2,271; mean age = 12.9) living in an urban, under‐resourced community participated in this investigation. The current study used autoregressive cross‐lagged models to examine changes across four waves of data within each grade of middle school.

Results: Support was found for trauma‐related distress uniquely predicting increased levels of physical aggression. This effect was consistent across gender and within and across middle school grades. Conversely, physical aggression did not predict changes in trauma‐related distress.

Conclusions: Violence prevention efforts should routinely screen for trauma‐related distress.
Introduction: Novel perspectives on the psychology and psychotherapy of eating disorders
Authors: Latzer Yael , Stein Daniel
Published: April 2019

The aim of this introduction to this issue is to review and summarize significant new psychological perspectives and psychotherapeutic interventions in the treatment of eating disorder (EDs). In this issue, five novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of EDs are presented. These include a combination of psychodynamic psychotherapy and neuropsychology, two recent modifications of cognitive behavioral therapy (the MANTRA, and the conceptualization of change in patients with ED in terms of sense of agency), a specific group movement therapy, and an innovative rehabilitation treatment. In addition, one article offers an historic review of the development of psychotherapy of EDs, and two articles highlight specific considerations related to the treatment of EDs: compulsory treatment, and culturally sensitive treatment.
The link between sleep disturbances and suicidal thoughts and behaviors in remitted bipolar I patients
Authors: Fekih‐Romdhane Feten , Jendoubi Jihen , Saguem Bochra Nourhène , Ridha Rym , Cheour Majda
Published: April 2019

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the links between different sleep parameters and suicidal ideation and behavior in remitted bipolar I patients.

Methods

One hundred eight remitted bipolar I patients were recruited from the psychiatry department of Razi Hospital. The third item of the “Hamilton Depression Rating Scale” was used to evaluate current suicidal behaviors. Circadian typology, daytime sleepiness and sleep quality were evaluated using the “Horne and Ostberg Morningness‐Eveningness Questionnaire,” the “Epworth Sleepiness Scale,” and the “Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index,” respectively.

Results

Current suicidal ideation and behavior were significantly associated with circadian typology, daytime sleepiness, and sleep quality. After controlling for demographic variables (age and gender) and psychosocial factors (depression and substance use), suicidal ideation significantly contributed to sleep quality. Depression was a significant predictor within the second step when entered with other psychosocial variables; however, once suicide variables were included, depression was no longer a significant predictor.

Conclusions

An evaluation of sleep's quality should be included in the suicide risk assessment of bipolar I patients.
Overexpression of microRNA‐186 inhibits angiogenesis in retinoblastoma via the Hedgehog signaling pathway by targeting ATAD2
Authors: Wu Shuai , Han Mei , Zhang Chao
Published: April 2019

Retinoblastoma (RB) represents an aggressive malignancy in the eye during the period of infancy and childhood. We delineated the ability of microRNA‐186 (miR‐186) to influence viability, invasion, migration, angiogenesis, and apoptosis of RB via the Hedgehog signaling pathway by targeting AAA domain‐containing protein 2 (ATAD2). The microarray‐based analysis was adopted to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to RB. Subsequently, RB cells were treated with miR‐186 mimic, miR‐186 inhibitor, or si‐ATAD2. The expression of miR‐186, ATAD2, Hedgehog signaling pathway‐related genes were evaluated, and the target relationship between miR‐186 and ATAD2 was verified. Finally, cell proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis, and angiogenesis were assessed. ATAD2 was identified as a DEG and modulated by miR‐186. Moreover, we revealed that ATAD2 was highly expressed, whereas miR‐186 was lowly expressed, and the Hedgehog signaling pathway was activated in RB. Then, ATAD2 as a putative target of miR‐186 was validated using a luciferase assay. miR‐186 mimic or siRNA‐ATAD2 in RB cells reduced cell viability, invasion, and migration coordinating with elevated apoptosis via impairing the Hedgehog signaling pathway, where repressed angiogenesis was observed. Overexpression of miR‐186 attenuates RB via the inactivation of the Hedgehog signaling pathway by downregulating ATAD2.
Aluminum chloride causes 5‐fluorouracil resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells
Authors: Li Mengling , Cui Zheng‐guo , Zakki Shahbaz Ahmad , Feng Qianwen , Sun Lu , Feril Loreto B. , Inadera Hidekuni
Published: April 2019

Chemoresistance is one of the major obstacles in chemotherapy‐based hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) intervention. Aluminum (Al) is an environmental pollutant that plays a vital role in carcinogenesis, tumorigenesis, and metastasis. However, the effect of Al on chemoresistance remains unknown. 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) is a widely used antitumor drug. Therefore, we investigated the effects of aluminum chloride (AlCl3) on the chemoresistance of HepG2 cells to 5‐FU and explored the underlying mechanisms of these effects. The results demonstrated that AlCl3 pretreatment attenuated 5‐FU‐induced apoptosis through Erk activation and reversed 5‐FU‐induced cell cycle arrest by downregulating p‐Chk2Thr68 levels. In addition, AlCl3 markedly increased the levels of proteins associated with cell migration, such as MMP‐2 and MMP‐9. Further investigation demonstrated that an Erk inhibitor (U0126) reversed the AlCl3‐induced decrease in apoptosis, enhancement of cell cycle progression, promotion of cell migration, and attenuation of oxidative stress. In summary, AlCl3 induced chemoresistance to 5‐FU in HepG2 cells. The present study suggests a potential influence of AlCl3 on 5‐FU therapy. These findings may help others to understand and properly address the resistance of HCC to chemotherapeutic agents.
The effects of training on hormonal concentrations in young soccer players
Authors: Muscella Antonella , Vetrugno Carla , Spedicato Mirko , Stefàno Erika , Marsigliante Santo
Published: April 2019

To test the hypothesis that football training would be accompanied by physiological adaptations and hormonal changes, we analyzed the effects of a whole football season on physical fitness and hormonal concentrations in youth football players. Male football players (n = 29, age 16.51 ± 0.7 years) in a regional professional league and male healthy control subjects (n = 30, age 17.1 ± 1 years) participated to the study. Blood cortisol, testosterone, and growth hormone (hGH) concentrations were assayed before the beginning of the training period (T0), just after the training period (T1), at the middle of the season (T2), and at the end of the season (T3). In each period physical tests and anthropometric measurements were also performed. Results showed significant differences in basal values of cortisol, testosterone, and growth hormone (hGH) in the four time points evaluated (P < 0.01). In addition, the concentrations of hGH were higher in the soccer players group than in control subjects (P < 0.001). Between the start of the training period and the end of the football season significant differences were observed in the anthropometric characteristics and in the physical form of the football players. Furthermore, the hormonal status was significantly correlated with the indicators of the lower limb power (squat‐jump [SqJ], and counter‐movement‐jump [CMJ]) and those of aerobic performance (Yo–Yo intermittent recovery test level 1 (YYIRT1) and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max)).These data underscore the importance of establishing training protocols that present the potential to promote positive adaptations without, at the same time, provoking overtraining of young players.
A Convenient Synthesis of Pyrazole‐imidazoline Derivatives by Microwave Irradiation
Authors: de S. Rosa Getúlio , Souto Bernardo A. , Pereira Cynthia N. , Teixeira Bruna C. , dos Santos Maurício S.
Published: April 2019

A series of 28 hybrids pyrazole‐imidazolines 1a–n and 2a–n were synthesized by a new methodology using microwave irradiation, in short time (20–30 min), in low power (50–70 W), and in 34–92% yield. Among all methodologies evaluated, no side products were obtained. All derivatives were completely characterized by FT–IR, 1H and 13C NMR, GC–MS, and HRMS.
Changes of volatile organic compounds and bioactivity of Alternaria brassicae GL07 in different ages
Authors: Pan Yun , Jin Hongjie , Yang Shengli , Liu Hong
Published: April 2019

Plant endophytes are rich in secondary metabolites and are widely used in medicine, chemical, food, agriculture, and other fields. Here, an endophytic fungus is isolated from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves and identified as Alternaria brassicae GL07 through genotypic characterizations. It can produce fruity scented volatiles. The analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was done by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. A total of 32 components were identified; and at different culture times, the composition of VOCs was different. It had more components in the first two weeks, but a fewer components on the 21st day. More olefins, ketone, aldehyde, and alcohol were found in the growth period and more amines and esters were found in the decline period. Also, 2,5‐dihydroxyacetophenone, β‐ionone, and nonanal were found. They were the same ingredients in Ginkgo essential oils and some of them were isolated for the first time in the volatile constituents of endophytes. The antioxidant activity and whitening activities of all extracts were also evaluated. When cultured for 10 days, it had the strongest 2,2‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical (IC50, 0.56 g/L), hydroxyl radical scavenging ability (IC50, 0.47 g/L), reducing ability, and tyrosinase inhibition ability (IC50, 5.18 g/L), which may be due to a large amount of ketones and alcohols produced during the log phase. This demonstrates the potential of A. brassicae GL07 to produce bioactive compounds and to be used for perfume and cosmetic industries.
Assessment of the appropriateness of meningitis management and drug utilisation: a prospective audit for implementing an antimicrobial stewardship program
Authors: Elba Ghada
Published: April 2019

Background

Bacterial and viral meningitis are two life‐threatening diseases that pose a socioeconomic burden on many developing countries such as Egypt. Inappropriate management is the main factor contributing to this burden.

Aim

Assess the appropriateness of management of bacterial and viral meningitis in accordance with the Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines and to evaluate the drugs used.

Methods

A prospective observational audit study was conducted in a teaching hospital in Egypt to evaluate the appropriateness of meningitis management as part of implementing a proposed institutional antibiotic stewardship program. Fifty‐eight patients met the inclusion criteria. A threshold between 90 and 100% was considered to measure the appropriateness as according to the World Health Organization drug use evaluation guidelines.

Results

Viral meningitis affected more than 60% of patients. The empirical regimen consisted primarily of penicillin, ceftriaxone and dexamethasone. The mean duration of the first antimicrobial and antiviral doses were 1.55h and 19–22h respectively. Non‐compliance with standard practice guidelines due to wrong regimen selection was detected in more than 60% of patients. Fewer than 10% of patients received the correct dexamethasone regimen and fewer than 20% of patients had a follow‐up lumbar puncture. The mean length of stay was 9–12 days. Non‐compliance with guidelines resulted in extra charges for more than 70% of patients.

Conclusions

Overall compliance with standard practice guidelines was below the proposed thresholds and misuse of drugs, especially antibiotics, was obvious. Institutional antimicrobial stewardship programs are essential to improve the quality of care and to limit medication misuse.
Variability of compounded topical 0.2% nifedipine formulations
Authors: Barak Nir , Rice Howard , Kamsler Ariel
Published: April 2019

Background

This aim of the study was to conduct a quality analysis of compounded formulations of topical nifedipine 0.2% obtained from retail compounding pharmacies.

Methods

Nifedipine preparations were purchased in triplicate (refills two weeks apart) from nine commercial compounding pharmacies and assessed for: (1) label and information in compliance with regulations; (2) content homogeneity, determined by content assessment of samples from the top, middle and bottom of each preparation and microscopic assessment of crystals; (3) prescription uniformity (i.e. determining the content of each of the refills compared with the first prescription dispensed); and (4) microbiological contamination.

Results

Only two providers labelled the product as a compounded product, and only one compounder included a lot or batch number and storage instructions. Of the 81 samples (from nine pharmacies) analysed, only 22 complied with the US Pharmacopoeia standard for potency being 90–115% of label claim; the lowest potency detected was 48.5% and the highest was 157.5%.

Conclusion

Patients prescribed topical 0.2% nifedipine received compounded formulations that were incorrectly or inappropriately labelled and with considerable variability in potency and content uniformity.
Sarcomas of the mandible
Authors: Petrovic Ivana , Ahmed Zain U. , Hay Ashley , Rosen Evan B. , Lu Chuanyong , Hameed Meera , Shah Jatin P.
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Sarcomas of the mandible are extremely rare tumors, with osteosarcoma being the most common, followed by Ewing's sarcoma

Materials and methods

A retrospective review of the clinical records, imaging studies, and pathology slides of patients with sarcoma of the mandible at a Tertiary Care Cancer Center from 1998 to 2014 was undertaken. The impact of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and postoperative radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy was studied, and factors impacting upon local control and disease‐specific survival were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐two patients were treated over the study period, comprising of 15 males and seven females. External swelling, intraoral growth, or facial numbness were the presenting symptoms. Eighteen patients had osteosarcoma and four had the Ewing's sarcoma. Nine patients received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. All but one patient underwent surgery. Eleven had negative margins, with 90% recurrence‐free survival at 3 years, compared to 10 with positive or close margins, leading to 67% recurrence‐free survival. None of the patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy developed recurrence and all were alive at 3 years. The impact of postoperative radiotherapy or adjuvant chemotherapy was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Wide surgical resection with negative margins remains the hallmark of surgical treatment.
Carbonized cotton fibers via a facile method for highly sensitive solid‐phase microextraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Li Chunying , Sun Min , Ji Xiangping , Han Sen , Wang Xiuqin , Tian Yu , Feng Juanjuan
Published: April 2019

Cotton fiber is an environmentally friendly and natural material with a certain extraction capacity, while its enrichment ability is poor. In order to improve the extraction efficiency of cotton fibers, it was carbonized to form a layer of amorphous carbon as the sorbent by a simple carbonization method. Carbonized cotton fibers were filled into a polyetheretherketone tube for in‐tube solid‐phase microextraction. The carbonization time was investigated to obtain high extraction efficiency. Coupled to high‐performance liquid chromatography, the extraction tube was evaluated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, estrogens and phthalates, and it exhibited best extraction efficiency for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Under the optimum conditions, an online analysis method for several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons was established with large linear ranges (0.016–0.20 μg/L), low limits of detection (0.005–0.020 μg/L), and high enrichment factors (948–2874). Analysis method was successfully applied to the detection of targets in the real samples and shown satisfactory durability and chemical stability. Moreover, the relative recoveries ranged from 82 to 119.2%, which demonstrated the applicability of carbonized cotton fibers in sample preparation. Compared with other reported methods, the proposed method provided shorter extraction time, higher enrichment factors, comparable limits of detection, and recoveries.
Development and optimization of a supercritical fluid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for the high‐throughput determination of nimodipine in beagle plasma
Authors: Wang Weiping , Li Pengyan , Wu Fengying , Wang Zhen , Zhang Tianhong
Published: April 2019

A simple, sensitive, and efficient supercritical fluid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry method was established for the determination of nimodipine in beagle plasma. One‐step protein precipitation with acetone was used to extract the analytes from the plasma. Nitrendipine was used as the internal standard. The chromatographic separation was achieved on an ACQUITY UPC2™ BEH 2‐EP column, and a gradient elution program was applied at a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min. The detection was carried out on a triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionization source operating in positive ion mode. Quantification was performed using multiple reaction monitoring of the transitions of m/z 419.3→301.3 for nimodipine and m/z 361.4→315.2 for nitrendipine. A satisfactory linearity was obtained over the concentration range of 0.5–800 ng/mL (r > 0.996). The intra‐ and interday precision and accuracy results were <9.1% across the quality control levels. The peak concentration and area under concentration‐time curve (0–720 min) values of the test and reference formulations were 279.28 ± 211.46 and 265.13 ± 149.26 ng/mL, 25608.00 ± 17553.65 and 28553.67 ± 20207.92 ng·min/mL, respectively. The validated method was successfully applied to reveal the pharmacokinetic profiles of nimodipine in beagle dogs after oral administration. Moreover, the analytical method could be used for further bioequivalence studies.
Diagnostic Accuracy of a 3‐Point Ultrasound Protocol to Detect Esophageal or Endobronchial Mainstem Intubation in a Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Mori Takaaki , Nomura Osamu , Hagiwara Yusuke , Inoue Nobuaki
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the 3‐point approach with ultrasonography for confirming endotracheal tube (ETT) placement in pediatric patients.

Methods

This was a prospective study conducted at a tertiary care center in Japan between March 2014 and March 2016. Children aged 0 to 18 years requiring endotracheal intubation in our emergency department (ED) who underwent ultrasonography for confirming ETT placement were enrolled. Patients who had already undergone a tracheotomy or intubation before arrival at our ED or who had severe neck injuries hindering ultrasonography were excluded. Quantitative capnography and portable chest x‐ray imaging were used as the reference standard for the confirmation of proper ETT placement. The main outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of the 3‐point approach with ultrasonography for detecting inappropriate ETT placement.

Results

In total, 68 patients were enrolled. The median age was 17 months (interquartile range, 8–40), and 51.4% were males. Three (4.4%) and 7 (10.3%) patients had esophageal and endobronchial mainstem intubation, respectively. The patients received emergency intubation due to a dysfunction of the central nervous system (45.6%) or respiratory failure (22.0%). The sensitivity and specificity of esophageal versus tracheal intubation was 100% (95% confidence interval [CI], 54.9%–100.0%) and 100% (95% CI, 97.9%–100.0%), respectively, whereas for endobronchial mainstem intubation versus tracheal intubation, the sensitivity and specificity was 85.7% (95% CI, 56.7%–96.0%) and 98.3% (95% CI, 94.8%–99.5%), respectively. Agreement between the reviewers was high (kappa coefficient, 0.78).

Conclusion

The 3‐point approach with ultrasonography was a feasible method for detecting esophageal and endobronchial mainstem intubation in pediatric patients.
Using Turmeric Oil as a Solvent Improves the Distribution of Sesamin‐Sesamolin in the Serum and Brain of Mice
Authors: Iwamoto Kazuko , Matsumura Shinichi , Yoshioka Yuri , Yamamoto Ayami , Makino Shohei , Moriyama Tatsuya , Zaima Nobuhiro
Published: April 2019

Accumulation of amyloid‐β peptide is associated with Alzheimer's dementia. Previously, we reported that sesamin and sesamolin inhibited β‐secretase activity in vitro, and each was transported to the serum and brain in mice after oral administration. However, the bioavailability of sesamin and sesamolin was poor in mice. In this study, we aimed to improve the bioavailability of sesamin and sesamolin. We found that the levels of sesamin and sesamolin in mouse serum and brain were higher after the administration of a mixture of sesame extract and turmeric oil (MST) than those after administering sesame extract alone. Serum sesamin and sesamolin contents in the MST‐treated group were 23‐fold and 15‐fold higher, respectively, than those in the sesame extract‐treated group. Brain sesamin and sesamolin contents in the MST‐treated group were 14‐fold and 11‐fold higher, respectively, than those in the sesame extract‐treated group. These results suggest that turmeric oil is an effective solvent to enhance the bioavailability of sesamin and sesamolin.
An appraisal of the thermal decomposition mechanisms of ILs as potential lubricants
Authors: Al‐Sallami Waleed , Parsaeian Pourya , Neville Anne
Published: April 2019

Ionic liquid (IL) lubricants are rapidly seeing increased use as either base lubricants or additives for a wide range of functionalities. This study considers the thermal stability of the ILs with the emphasis being their use as potential lubricants. The effect of IL chemistry, including anion chain length, cation chain length, anion type, and cation type, on their thermal stability is studied. The decomposition mechanism as a function of time and temperature is considered. Five ILs are studied by utilising both thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) for the dynamic thermal decomposition and Fourier transform IR spectroscopy (FTIR) for the static thermal decomposition. For static thermal decomposition, both time and temperature are varied. The results show that the variation of IL chemistry directly influences their thermal stability. The increase of either cation or anion chain length decreases their thermal stability. Both anion and cation type have a significant influence on the thermal stability.
The D incompressible Navier–Stokes equations with partial hyperdissipation
Authors: Yang Wanrong , Jiu Quansen , Wu Jiahong
Published: April 2019

The three‐dimensional incompressible Navier–Stokes equations with the hyperdissipation always possess global smooth solutions when . Tao [6] and Barbato, Morandin and Romito [1] made logarithmic reductions in the dissipation and still obtained the global regularity. This paper makes a different type of reduction in the dissipation and proves the global existence and uniqueness in the H1‐functional setting.
Asymptotic behavior of solutions of the compressible Navier‐Stokes equations in a cylinder under the slip boundary condition
Authors: Aihaiti Abulizi , Kagei Yoshiyuki
Published: April 2019

The large time behavior of solutions to the compressible Navier‐Stokes equations around the motionless state is considered in a cylinder under the slip boundary condition. It is shown that if the initial data are sufficiently small, the global solution uniquely exists and the large time behavior of the solution is described by a superposition of one‐dimensional nonlinear diffusion waves and a diffusive rigid rotation.
Regularity of the solution for a final value problem for the Rayleigh‐Stokes equation
Authors: Nguyen Hoang Luc , Nguyen Huy Tuan , Zhou Yong
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we deal with the backward problem of determining initial condition for Rayleigh‐Stokes where the data are given at a fixed time. The problem has many applications in some non‐Newtonian fluids. We give some regularity properties of the solution to backward problem.
Optimal vaccination and control strategies against dengue
Authors: Fischer Anne , Chudej Kurt , Pesch Hans Josef
Published: April 2019

This article focuses on the mathematical modelling of a disease outbreak of dengue fever. A cost‐efficient fighting strategy, which simultaneously uses vaccination, application of insecticides to adult and aquatic mosquitoes, and an approach to decrease the number of man‐made breeding places for the mosquitoes, is computed using optimal control. Vaccination includes a paediatric vaccination and an imperfect random mass vaccination with waning immunity.
Complex dynamics of a discrete fractional‐order Leslie‐Gower predator‐prey model
Authors: Singh Anuraj , Elsadany Abdelalim A. , Elsonbaty Amr
Published: April 2019

A proposed discretized form of fractional‐order prey‐predator model is investigated. A sufficient condition for the solution of the discrete system to exist and to be unique is determined. Jury stability test is applied for studying stability of equilibrium points of the discretized system. Then, the effects of varying fractional order and other parameters of the systems on its dynamics are examined. The system undergoes Neimark‐Sacker and flip bifurcation under certain conditions. We observe that the model exhibits chaotic dynamics following stable states as the memory parameter α decreases and step size h increases. Theoretical results illustrate the rich dynamics and complexity of the model. Numerical simulation validates theoretical results and demonstrates the presence of rich dynamical behaviors include S‐asymptotically bounded periodic orbits, quasi‐periodicity, and chaos. The system exhibits a wide range of dynamical behaviors for fractional‐order α key parameter.
An inverse problem for an immobilized enzyme model
Authors: Gajardo Diego , Mercado Alberto , Valencia Pedro
Published: April 2019

A method for estimating unknown kinetic parameters in a mathematical model for catalysis by an immobilized enzyme is studied. The model consists of a semilinear parabolic partial differential equation modeling the reaction‐diffusion process coupled with an ordinary differential equation for the rate transport. The well posedness of the model is proven; a PDE‐constrained optimization approach is applied to the stated inverse problem; and finally, some numerical simulations are presented.
Comparison of GPU reconstruction based on different symmetries for dual‐head PET
Authors: Meng Fanzhen , Wang Jianxun , Zhu Shouping , Cheng Jian , Liang Jimin , Tian Jie
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Dual‐head positron emission tomography (PET) scanners have increasingly attracted the attention of many researchers. However, with the compact geometry, the depth‐of‐interaction blurring will reduce the image resolution considerably. Monte Carlo (MC)‐based system response matrix (SRM) is able to describe the physical process of PET imaging accurately and improve reconstruction quality significantly. The MC‐based SRM is large and precomputed, which leads to a longer image reconstruction time with indexing and retrieving precomputed system matrix elements. In this study, we proposed a GPU acceleration algorithm to accelerate the iterative reconstruction.

Methods

It has been demonstrated that the line‐of‐response (LOR)‐based symmetry and the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) technology can accelerate the reconstruction tremendously. LOR‐based symmetry is suitable for the forward projection calculation, but not for the backprojection. In this study, we proposed a GPU acceleration algorithm that combined the LOR‐based symmetry and voxel‐based symmetry together, in which the LOR‐based symmetry is responsible for the forward projection, and the voxel‐based symmetry is used for the backprojection.

Results

Simulation and real experiments verify the efficiency of the algorithm. Compared with the CPU‐based calculation, the acceleration ratios of the forward projection and the backprojection operation are 130 and 110, respectively. The total acceleration ratio is 113×. In order to compare the acceleration effect of the different symmetries, we realized the reconstruction with the voxel‐based symmetry and the LOR‐based symmetry strategies. Compared with the LOR‐based GPU reconstruction, the acceleration ratio is 3.5×. Compared with the voxel‐based GPU reconstruction, the acceleration ratio is 12×.

Conclusion

We have proposed a new acceleration algorithm for the dual‐head PET system, in which both the forward and backprojection operations are accelerated by GPU.
Development of a methotrexate educational guide/information/monitoring booklet for inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Martin Una , O'Gradaig Donncha , Nolan Darragh Foley , Sheehy Claire
Published: April 2019

Introduction

There are over 40,000 people living in Ireland with inflammatory arthritis (IA), a condition that is potentially destructive in nature and can have personal, social and economic consequences. Although we have witnessed dramatic changes in the treatment of IA in the last two decades, methotrexate (MTX) remains the first‐line treatment for patients with a diagnosis of IA. Despite the fact that MTX is so commonly prescribed, there is a lack of educational materials both for healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients. The aim of the present study was to develop a suite of MTX material for patients.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review of MTX (evidence, educational materials and practice guidelines) in the treatment of IA was undertaken. The content of the documents was developed, and the format and structure of the documents were agreed. A tailored patient educational guide, information/monitoring booklet and alert card were designed to address the lack of educational materials for this condition. A national pilot study of the documents was conducted (a postal questionnaire for patients and electronic survey for clinical nurse specialists). Results and recommendations were incorporated into the final documents. These documents were also incorporated into the National Clinical Care Programme–rheumatology–methotrexate pathway.

Results

A 26‐page evidence‐based educational guide was produced to support the HCP in educating patients taking MTX, in conjunction with a patient information/monitoring booklet and alert card to support the patient.

Conclusions

These documents are now widely available and used in clinical practice in Ireland, providing patients with standardized, evidence‐based information about MTX.
Analytics and Big Data: Emerging trends and their impact on our lives
Authors: Saha Kunal
Published: April 2019

Companies are increasingly turning to Analytics to gain a competitive edge, providing decision makers with better insights. As they do, firms must resolve unique demands on their Information Technology resources and processes. This paper attempts to review the chronology of the adoption of Analytics. Next, it highlights how various economic sectors have incorporated Analytics and the resulting changes in the ways businesses interact with their customers. Further, the paper explores the cutting edge innovations in the Analytics domain. Subsequently, this paper tries to do an impact analysis on all these developments of our lives. Finally, the opportunities and threats, and how they may stand to affect our future, are discussed.