bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of the reflection intensity of natural hydroxyapatite using generalized linear model and ensemble learning methods
Authors: Okafor Emmanuel , Obada David O. , Ibrahim Yusuf , Dodoo‐Arhin David
Published: October 2020

Laboratory data acquisition and analysis of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data involves a lot of tedious human engineering and is time‐consuming. To put in context, a summation of the material synthesis procedure leading to the analysis of the structure of the material can span several days. To curb this challenge and to enhance innovations in engineering pedagogy, this article investigates an alternative method that uses supervised learning algorithms based on ensemble techniques and a generalized linear model (GLM) for predicting reflection intensity (XRD patterns) of raw and natural hydroxyapatite under varying sintering temperature conditions given Bragg angles as input to the machine learning algorithms. For the experiment, we trained GLM and ensemble learning models (CatBoost, LightGBM, and two variants of XGBoost based on manual and genetic algorithm for tuning of the hyperparameters). The results show that most instances of the XGBoost yielded a robust performance that surpasses all other approaches, when predicting X‐ray reflection intensities ascribed to the biomaterials subjected to varying sintering temperature conditions. In addition, the results show that all the ensemble techniques significantly outperform the GLM, this indicates that the former exhibits better generalization capacity. The ensemble learning techniques and the GLM presents a reduced computational complexity.
Stability of plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposited barrier films in biological solutions
Authors: Singh Ankit K. , Adstedt Katarina , Miao Tianxin , Champion Julie , Singh Preet M. , Graham Samuel
Published: October 2020

The applicability of atomic layer deposited (ALD) metal oxides as protective, encapsulating barriers for bioimplants and wearable technology is tested by determining the corrosion resistance of the films. Al2O3, HfO2, TiO2, and ZrO2 are deposited at 100°C and prove to be cytocompatible through MTT cell proliferation assay measurements. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements are conducted in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) solution, and simulated saliva and sweat solutions for 21 days using a three‐electrode setup. The resulting data demonstrates the mechanism of material degradation through equivalent electrical circuits fits. Of the metal oxides tested, HfO2, TiO2, and ZrO2 are established as viable options for protective coatings by exhibiting enhanced corrosion resistance in three biological environments. ALD TiO2 is most stable in PBS solution, while ALD ZrO2 is most stable in the simulated saliva and sweat solutions.
Performance of static synchronous series compensator and superconducting magnetic energy storage controllers for frequency regulation in two area hybrid wind‐thermal power system using Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Chaine Sabita , Tripathy Manish
Published: October 2020

To improve the management of limited real power resources, the controller parameters of flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTs) and energy storage systems (ESS) may be simultaneously tuned to optimize the frequency regulation in a two‐area thermal power system penetrated by wind power. In this regard, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) and static synchronous series compensator (SSSC), are operated together in different combinations in a two‐area power system. The controller parameters of SMES and SSSC placed in the system are optimized by means of Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA). Among the two, SMES is found to provide the best dynamic performance. The performance of coordinated controllers of SMES in both the areas supported by wind power from a double‐fed induction generator (DFIG), is also tested. In the event of any load perturbation, the dynamic performance of the controllers is analyzed with the sole participation of the DFIG and with the simultaneous operation of DFIG and SMES in both areas. Finally, time and frequency domain performance indices are reported and discussed.
Long‐Term Behavior of a Solid Oxide Electrolyzer (SOEC) Stack▴
Authors: Lang M. , Raab S. , Lemcke M. S. , Bohn C. , Pysik M.
Published: October 2020

The successful market introduction of the solid oxide fuel/electrolysis cell technology for power‐to‐gas applications requires the reduction of the degradation rates and the better understanding of the degradation mechanisms of the stacks. Therefore, the paper reports and compares the long‐term behavior of a solid oxide cell stack in electrolysis and reversible fuel cell/electrolysis operation. The 30‐cell stack with electrolyte supported cells was supplied by Sunfire GmbH (Dresden/Germany) in the German funded RSOC Project. The stack was operated for 3,370 h in electrolysis and afterwards for 2,500 h in reversible fuel cell/electrolysis mode, each at 70% gas conversion. In the beginning of the test, the stack showed high gas tightness, good performances and high efficiencies in both SOEC and SOFC operations. During 3,370 h of SOEC operation a low degradation of +0.5%/1,000 h was measured. During 2,500 h of reversible fuel cell/electrolysis cycling, the gas tightness of the stack slightly decreased, which led to a temperature increase, and higher degradation rates were observed. The increase of the ohmic resistance contributed mostly to the degradation. Optimized operating conditions for reversible cycling and increasing the purity of the supplied water are foreseen in order to minimize stack degradation in reversible operation.
Nanoenabled Photothermal Materials for Clean Water Production
Authors: Irshad Muhammad Sultan , Arshad Naila , Wang Xianbao
Published: October 2020

Solar‐powered water evaporation is a primitive technology but interest has revived in the last five years due to the use of nanoenabled photothermal absorbers. The cutting‐edge nanoenabled photothermal materials can exploit a full spectrum of solar radiation with exceptionally high photothermal conversion efficiency. Additionally, photothermal design through heat management and the hierarchy of smooth water‐flow channels have evolved in parallel. Indeed, the integration of all desirable functions into one photothermal layer remains an essential challenge for an effective yield of clean water in remote‐sensing areas. Some nanoenabled photothermal prototypes equipped with unprecedented water evaporation rates have been reported recently for clean water production. Many barriers and difficulties remain, despite the latest scientific and practical implementation developments. This Review seeks to inspire nanoenvironmental research communities to drive onward toward real‐time solar‐driven clean water production.
A Hydrophobic‐Interaction‐Based Mechanism Triggers Docking between the SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike and Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme 2
Authors: Li Jiacheng , Ma Xiaoliang , Guo Shuai , Hou Chengyu , Shi Liping , Zhang Hongchi , Zheng Bing , Liao Chenchen , Yang Lin , Ye Lin , He Xiaodong
Published: October 2020

A recent experimental study found that the binding affinity between the cellular receptor human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and receptor‐binding domain (RBD) in the spike (S) protein of novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is more than tenfold higher than that of the original severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV). However, main chain structures of the SARS‐CoV‐2 RBD are almost the same with that of the SARS‐CoV RBD. Understanding the physical mechanism responsible for the outstanding affinity between the SARS‐CoV‐2 S and ACE2 is an “urgent challenge” for developing blockers, vaccines, and therapeutic antibodies against the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. Taking into account the mechanisms of hydrophobic interaction, hydration shell, surface tension, and the shielding effect of water molecules, this study reveals a hydrophobic‐interaction‐based mechanism by means of which SARS‐CoV‐2 S and ACE2 bind together in an aqueous environment. The hydrophobic interaction between the SARS‐CoV‐2 S and ACE2 protein is found to be significantly greater than that between SARS‐CoV S and ACE2. At the docking site, the hydrophobic portions of the hydrophilic side chains of SARS‐CoV‐2 S are found to be involved in the hydrophobic interaction between SARS‐CoV‐2 S and ACE2.
Deficiency of Histone Methyltransferase SET Domain‐Containing 2 in Liver Leads to Abnormal Lipid Metabolism and HCC
Authors: Li Xue‐Jing , Li Qing‐Lan , Ju Lin‐Gao , Zhao Chen , Zhao Lan‐Shen , Du Jia‐Wen , Wang Yan , Zheng Ling , Song Bao‐Liang , Li Lian‐Yun , Li Li , Wu Min
Published: October 2020

Background and Aims

Trimethylation of Lys36 on histone 3 (H3K36me3) catalyzed by histone methyltransferase SET domain‐containing 2 (SETD2) is one of the most conserved epigenetic marks from yeast to mammals. SETD2 is frequently mutated in multiple cancers and acts as a tumor suppressor.

Approach and Results

Here, using a liver‐specific Setd2 depletion model, we found that Setd2 deficiency is sufficient to trigger spontaneous HCC. Meanwhile, Setd2 depletion significantly increased tumor and tumor size of a diethylnitrosamine‐induced HCC model. The mechanistic study showed that Setd2 suppresses HCC not only through modulating DNA damage response, but also by regulating lipid metabolism in the liver. Setd2 deficiency down‐regulated H3K36me3 enrichment and expression of cholesterol efflux genes and caused lipid accumulation. High‐fat diet enhanced lipid accumulation and promoted the development of HCC in Setd2‐deficient mice. Chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing analysis further revealed that Setd2 depletion induced c‐Jun/activator protein 1 (AP‐1) activation in the liver, which was trigged by accumulated lipid. c‐Jun acts as an oncogene in HCC and functions through inhibiting p53 in Setd2‐deficient cells.

Conclusions

We revealed the roles of Setd2 in HCC and the underlying mechanisms in regulating cholesterol homeostasis and c‐Jun/AP‐1 signaling.
Modeling complex socio‐technical systems using the FRAM: A literature review
Authors: Salehi Vahid , Veitch Brian , Smith Douglas
Published: October 2020

This is a review paper of studies that have employed the functional resonance analysis method (FRAM). FRAM is a relatively new systemic method for modeling and analyzing complex socio‐technical systems. This review aims to address the following research questions: (a) Why is FRAM used? (b) To what domains has FRAM been applied? (c) What are the appropriate data collection approaches in practice? (d) What are the deficiencies of FRAM? A review of 52 FRAM‐related studies published between 2010 and 2020 revealed that FRAM‐based models can be used as a basis for improving safety management, accident/incident investigation, hazard identification/risk management, and complexity management in complex socio‐technical systems. The outcomes also showed that healthcare was the most common domain that employed FRAM (31% of the investigated studies). The results of exploring data collection methods indicated a mixed method (interview, focus group, observation) was employed in 52% of the analyzed studies, and the accident investigation report was the most popular approach in aviation‐related studies. An investigation of the deficiencies of the FRAM showed that it should be upgraded by exploiting supplementary methods to enhance its analytical and computational capacity to help risk analysts and safety managers in complex socio‐technical systems.
Predicting postoperative day 1 hematocrit levels after hysterectomy for malignant indication: Validating a previously published model
Authors: Kailasam Aparna , Brodeur Peter , Mayer Allan R. , Mayer Sarah , Shepherd Jonathan P.
Published: October 2020

Objective

To determine whether the Swenson model of postoperative day 1 (POD1) hematocrit after benign hysterectomy is applicable to gynecologic oncology hysterectomies.

Methods

Data were retrospectively collected from cases of hysterectomy with malignant pathology in Hartford, USA, from 2014 to 2016. Predicted POD1 hematocrit was compared with actual hematocrit. ROC curve analysis was used to determine the optimal cut‐off point for predicting hematocrit levels of 30% or less.

Results

Among 107 women, mean age was 62.9 years and body mass index was 34.0. Most underwent robotic (44.9%) or abdominal (43.9%) hysterectomy. The published equation correctly predicted hematocrit to within ±5% for 83.2% of women, which was less accurate than observed in the original validation set. The equation was more likely to underestimate lower hematocrit levels, adding safety to its use. By ROC curve analysis, the best cut‐off point for predicting actual hematocrit above 30% was predicted hematocrit 32.3% (100% specificity).

Conclusion

The Swenson equation predicted POD1 hematocrit less accurately in the current dataset. As a screening tool for hematocrit below 30%, however, ordering postoperative hematocrit is probably unnecessary if the predicted value is 32.3% or higher. This equation should be used as a screening tool to reduce unnecessary laboratory tests.
Effective photodynamic treatment of Trichophyton species with Rose Bengal
Authors: Houang Jessica , Halliday Catriona , Chen Sharon , Ho Chun‐Hoong , Bekmukhametova Alina , Lauto Antonio
Published: October 2020

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with Rose Bengal has previously achieved eradication of Trichophyton rubrum infections causing toenail onychomycosis; however, its antifungal activity against other clinically relevant dermatophytes has yet to be studied. Here, we test the efficacy of PDT using Rose Bengal (140 μM) and 532 nm irradiation (101 J/cm2) against Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton interdigitale spores, in comparison to T. rubrum. A significant reduction (>99%) of T. mentagrophytes and T. interdigitale was observed, while actual eradication of viable T. rubrum was achieved (99.99%). Laser irradiation alone inhibited growth of T. rubrum (55.2%) and T. mentagrophytes (45.2%) significantly more than T. interdigitale (25.5%) (P = .0086), which may indicate an increased presence of fungal pigments, xanthomegnin and melanin. The findings suggest that Rose Bengal‐PDT can act against a broader spectrum of fungal pathogens, and with continued development may be employed in a wider range of clinical antifungal applications.
Patterns of healthcare utilization among patients with sickle cell disease hospitalized with pain crises
Authors: Rodday Angie Mae , Esham Kimberly S , Savidge Nicole , Parsons Susan K
Published: October 2020

Background

Vaso‐occlusive crises (VOC) are the hallmark of sickle cell disease (SCD). Adults experiencing VOC often have high rates of unexpected healthcare utilization. We characterized prior and future healthcare utilization among adults hospitalized with VOC at an urban, academic medical center.

Methods

We identified 449 VOC hospitalizations among 63 patients from 2013 to 2016. Patients were categorized based on receiving established care at the medical center and prior utilization: (a) not established (n = 21); (b) newly established (n = 10); (c) established with low utilization in past 12 months (<4 VOC hospitalizations) (n = 22); and (d) established with high utilization in past 12 months (≥4 VOC hospitalizations) (n = 10). Patient and hospitalization characteristics and future utilization were compared across categories.

Results

Median age was 26 years (Q1 = 22, Q3 = 29) and 55.6% were female. Established patients with high prior utilization tended to have higher median pain scores at admission (10, P = .08). Thirty‐day readmissions were highest in established patients with high prior utilization (P = .06), but 30‐day clinic visits were highest in established patients with low prior utilization (P = .08). Adjusted linear regression found that newly established patients (β = −4.6, P < .01) and established patients with low prior utilization (β = −5.6, P < .01) had fewer VOC hospitalizations in the ensuing 12 months than established patients with high prior utilization.

Conclusion

Among patients with SCD hospitalized for VOC, there was heterogeneity in healthcare utilization, with persistence in utilization over time for some patients. Efforts are needed to shift care from the acute setting to the outpatient clinic, which may lead to improved outcomes.
Synthesis, antiproliferative activity, and molecular docking of some N‐heterocycles bearing a pyrazole scaffold against liver and breast tumors
Authors: Ramadan Sayed K. , El‐Ziaty Ahmed K. , Ali Rania S.
Published: October 2020

A new series of some 1,3‐diphenylpyrazole‐based heterocycles were constructed from 2‐cyano‐3‐(1,3‐diphenyl‐1H‐pyrazol‐4‐yl)propenoyl chloride (1). The titled acid chloride was submitted to react with mono‐nucleophilic reagents, including oxygen, sulfur, or nitrogen, to afford new acrylate, thioacrylate, and acrylamide derivatives, respectively. Meanwhile, condensation of 1 with some 1,2‐ and 1,3‐binucleophiles led to the construction of oxadiazepine, pyridopyrimidine, and thiadiazolopyrimidine derivatives (16, 18, 20, 23). In turn, two benzoxazinone derivatives (27, 28) were synthesized upon treating 1 with substituted anthranilic acids followed by heating with acetic anhydride. The antiproliferative activity of the compounds developed against two tumors (HePG2 and MCF7) was evaluated. Compounds 4, 6, 11, 25, and 26 exhibited strong activity and compounds 3, 5, 16, 18, 27, and 28 exhibited moderate activity. A molecular modeling study was conducted by utilizing molecular modeling environment to test the binding free energies of the studied compounds toward human cyclin‐dependent kinase 2. The compounds, 4, 25, and 26, displayed the best docking score. The orientation and hydrogen bond pattern of these compounds in the active site correspond to that of PNU‐292137, which had been approved as a selective CDK2 inhibitor.
Synthesis and cytotoxic evaluation of novel brominated N‐alkyl pyrano[3,2‐c]quinolinones
Authors: Hassan Shrouk M. , Morsy Jehan M. , Hassanin Hany M. , Othman Elham S.
Published: October 2020

A novel series of 6‐alkyl‐4‐bromopyrano[3,2‐c]quinoline‐2,5‐diones (2a–c), 6‐alkyl‐3,4‐dibromopyrano[3,2‐c]quinoline‐2,5‐diones (4a–c), and 6‐alkyl‐3‐amino‐bromopyrano[3,2‐c]quinoline‐2,5‐diones (6a–c) were synthesized via appropriate conventional methods and in good yields. The structures of target compounds were approved by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry. The antitumor inhibitory activities of the new compounds were evaluated on several cancer cell lines, A‐549 (human lung cancer), HCT‐116 (human colon cancer), MCF‐7 (breast cancer), and HePG‐2 (human liver cancer). Moreover, 50% inhibitory concentrations, IC50, were established. 5‐Fluorouracil was used as a positive control in the viability assay. The screening results showed that most of the examined compounds exposed powerful inhibition activity toward various cell lines. Particularly, Compound 4c exhibited higher cytotoxic activity against four tumor cell lines than the reference drug, 5‐fluorouracil, with significantly lower IC50 values. Accordingly, most of the synthesized compounds would be a better prospective growth in the anticancer drug discovery.
Skull osteology of Vipera walser (Squamata, Viperidae): Description, variability, ontogeny, and diagnostic characters in comparison to other Italian vipers
Authors: Seghetti Simone Matteo , Villa Andrea , Tschopp Emanuel , Bernardini Federico , Laddaga Lorenzo , Fanelli Mauro , Levi Renzo , Delfino Massimo
Published: October 2020

Vipera walser is the most recently recognized European viper. This rare species is endemic to a small area in the Piedmont Alps of Italy, but its closest relatives are found among the Caucasian viper species. In order to provide a starting point for a phylogenetic and biogeographic investigation based on osteology, and including fossils remains, we analyzed four specimens of V. walser and compared them with specimens of the four other Italian viper species. Based on these specimens, we improved the diagnosis of V. walser and provided a first evaluation of intraspecific variability and ontogenetic variation. The skull of V. walser is subject to significant variation, most likely related to ontogeny in some cases (i.e., development of the parietal crest, development of the basioccipital process, shape of the posterior margin of the parabasisphenoid, shape of the quadrate). Based on the studied material, it is possible to distinguish V. walser from the other Italian vipers by the shape of the occipital crest of the supraoccipital, which is posteriorly directed, whereas it is laterally directed in the other species. The osteological diagnosibility provides further support for the validity of V. walser as a distinct species from Vipera berus.
Repeatability of Phase‐Resolved Functional Lung (PREFUL)‐MRI Ventilation and Perfusion Parameters in Healthy Subjects and COPD Patients
Authors: Pöhler Gesa H. , Klimeš Filip , Behrendt Lea , Voskrebenzev Andreas , Gonzalez Cristian Crisosto , Wacker Frank , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Vogel‐Claussen Jens
Published: October 2020

Background

Free‐breathing phase‐resolved functional lung (PREFUL)‐MRI may be useful for treatment monitoring in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with dyspnea. PREFUL test–retest reliability is essential for clinical application.

Purpose

To measure the repeatability of PREFUL‐MRI ventilation (V) and perfusion (Q) parameters.

Study Type

Retrospective and prospective.

Population

A total of 28 COPD patients and 57 healthy subjects.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5T MRI/2D spoiled gradient echo imaging.

Assessment

V and Q lung parameter maps based on three coronal slices were obtained at baseline and after 14 days (COPD patients) or after a short pause outside the scanner (healthy subjects). Regional ventilation (RVent) and imaging flow volume loops by cross‐correlation (ccVent) were quantified. Q was normalized to the signal of the main pulmonary artery (QN) and quantified (QQuant). Pulmonary pulse wave transit time (pPTT), voxel‐by‐voxel (regional), and whole lung (global) ventilation defect percentage based on RVent (VDPRVent) and ccVent (VDPccVent), perfusion defect percentage (QDP), and ventilation/perfusion match based on RVent (VQMRVent) and ccVent (VQMccVent) were calculated.

Statistical Tests

Regional V and Q were analyzed globally for each subject. Each parameter's median of scans 1 and 2 were assessed by Wilcoxon sign rank test. A parameter's repeatability was analyzed by Bland–Altman analyses, coefficients of variation, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and power calculations. The regional voxel repeatability was examined by calculating the Sørensen–Dice coefficient.

Results

There was no bias and no significant differences between the first and second MRI for any parameters (P > 0.05). Coefficient of variation ranged from 2.26% (ccVent) to 19.31% (QDP), ICC from 0.93 (QDP) to 0.60 (pPTT), the smallest detectable difference was 0.002 ccVent. Regional comparison showed the highest overlap (84%) in VDPRVent in healthy voxels and the lowest (53%) in VDPccVent defect voxels.

Data Conclusion

V and Q PREFUL‐MRI parameters were repeatable over two scan sessions in both healthy controls and COPD patients.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Viral metagenomic identification of a novel anellovirus in blood sample of a child with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Yang Jie , Wang Hao , Zhang Xiaodan , Yang Shixing , Xu Hui , Zhang Wen
Published: October 2020

Here, using viral metagenomics, a novel anellovirus with strain name HuAV‐zj‐ad1 was detected in blood sample from a child with atopic dermatitis. The complete genome sequence of HuAV‐zj‐ad1 was determined and fully characterized. The circular genome of HuAV‐zj‐ad1 is 2841 nt in length and includes four polyprotein ORFs. Phylogenetic analysis and pairwise sequence comparisons based on the amino acid sequences of ORF1, ORF2, ORF3, ORF4 indicated that HuAV‐zj‐ad1 belonged to a novel species within the genus Betatorquevirus. Polymerase chain reaction screening results showed this anellovirus was not present 50 blood samples from normal children. Whether this novel species of anellovirus has association with a certain disease needs further study.
Sequential in situ Raman spectroscopy for observing dissociation behavior of filled‐ice Ih of methane hydrate at high pressure
Authors: Kadobayashi Hirokazu , Hirai Hisako , Suzuki Keita , Ohfuji Hiroaki , Muraoka Michihiro , Yoshida Suguru , Yamamoto Yoshitaka
Published: October 2020

In situ Raman spectroscopy was performed to investigate the stability and dissociation behavior of filled‐ice Ih of methane hydrate at high‐pressure (up to 5.1 GPa) and high‐temperature (up to 408 K) using an externally heated diamond anvil cell. The results revealed that filled‐ice Ih was stable up to 383 K at 4.5 GPa, and the dissociation conditions intersected with the melting curve of ice VII at approximately 2.5 GPa and with that of solid methane at approximately 2.2 GPa. Consequently, the dissociation into water and methane components occurred via two different mechanisms depending on pressure: (1) melting into liquid water and fluid methane below approximately 2.5 GPa and (2) solid–solid decomposition into ice VII and solid methane above approximately 2.5 GPa. Visual observations with an optical microscope synchronized with in situ Raman spectroscopy detected considerable changes in the sample in the case of melting, whereas they could not detect any changes in the decomposition case because both decomposition products were solid phases with similar refractive indices. This result demonstrated that the synchronized and sequential Raman spectroscopy with optical observations is indispensable for evaluating the dissociation behavior; otherwise, the solid–solid decomposition is overlooked when the evaluation is performed using a microscope only. The stability field of filled‐ice Ih obtained in the experiment can help infer the states of methane hydrates in the interior of icy bodies such as Saturn's largest moon, Titan.
A capillary electrophoresis method for the determination of the linagliptin enantiomeric impurity
Authors: Mai Xuan‐Lan , Pham Thuy‐Vy , Le Thi‐Anh‐Tuyet , Nguyen Bao‐Tan , Nguyen Ngoc Van Thi , Kang Jong‐Seong , Mar Woongchon , Kim Kyeong Ho
Published: October 2020

Linagliptin is a highly specific, long‐acting inhibitor that is used as an orally administrable agent for type‐2 diabetes treatment. Because only the R‐enantiomer is of clinical use, we developed a capillary electrophoresis method for the determination of the enantiomeric impurity of this compound. Carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin was selected as the chiral selector for the separation of linagliptin enantiomers. Design of experiments and desirability functions were used for the analytical optimization, which was focused on understanding and improving the electrophoretic process. The effects of significant parameters (background electrolyte concentration and pH, cyclodextrin concentration, temperature, and voltage) were thoroughly investigated. The complete separation of linagliptin and its enantiomeric impurity with baseline resolution was achieved within 10 min on an uncoated fused‐silica capillary (50 μm inner diameter, 365 μm outer diameter, 64.5/56 cm in total/ effective length) maintained at 25°C, under an applied voltage of 28.0 kV. The background electrolyte contained 70 mM sodium acetate and 4.7 mM carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin, and the pH was adjusted to 6.10. The method was validated, and a limit of quantitation of 0.05% for the impurity was estimated.
Recent applications of retention modelling in liquid chromatography
Authors: den Uijl Mimi J. , Schoenmakers Peter J. , Pirok Bob W.J. , van Bommel Maarten R.
Published: October 2020

Recent applications of retention modelling in liquid chromatography (2015–2020) are comprehensively reviewed. The fundamentals of the field, which date back much longer, are summarized. Retention modeling is used in retention‐mechanism studies, for determining physical parameters, such as lipophilicity, and for various more‐practical purposes, including method development and optimization, method transfer, and stationary‐phase characterization and comparison. The review focusses on the effects of mobile‐phase composition on retention, but other variables and novel models to describe their effects are also considered. The five most‐common models are addressed in detail, i.e. the log‐linear (linear‐solvent‐strength) model, the quadratic model, the log–log (adsorption) model, the mixed‐mode model, and the Neue–Kuss model. Isocratic and gradient‐elution methods are considered for determining model parameters and the evaluation and validation of fitted models is discussed. Strategies in which retention models are applied for developing and optimizing one‐ and two‐dimensional liquid chromatographic separations are discussed. The review culminates in some overall conclusions and several concrete recommendations.
Does Magnetic Resonance Imaging After Diagnostic Ultrasound for Soft Tissue Masses Change Clinical Management?
Authors: Goldman Lauren H. , Perronne Laetitia , Alaia Erin F. , Samim Mohammad M. , Hoda Syed T. , Adler Ronald S. , Burke Christopher J.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

To evaluate whether a follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan performed after initial ultrasound (US) to evaluate soft tissue mass (STM) lesions of the musculoskeletal system provides additional radiologic diagnostic information and alters clinical management.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of patients undergoing initial US evaluations of STMs of the axial or appendicular skeleton between November 2012 and March 2019. Patients who underwent US examinations followed by MRI for the evaluation of STM lesions were identified. For inclusion, the subsequent pathologic correlation was required from either a surgical or image‐guided biopsy. Imaging studies with pathologic correlations were then reviewed by 3 musculoskeletal radiologists, who were blinded to the pathologic diagnoses. The diagnostic utility of MRI was then assessed on the basis of a 5‐point grading scale, and inter‐reader agreements were determined by the Fleiss κ statistic.

Results

Ninety‐two patients underwent MRI after US for STM evaluations. Final pathologic results were available in 42 cases. Samples were obtained by surgical excision or open biopsy (n = 34) or US‐guided core biopsy (n = 8). The most common pathologic diagnoses were nerve sheath tumors (n = 9), lipomas (n = 5), and leiomyomas (n = 5). Imaging review showed that the subsequent MRI did not change the working diagnosis in 73% of cases, and the subsequent MRI was not considered to narrow the differential diagnosis in 68% of cases. There was slight inter‐reader agreement for the diagnostic utility of MRI among individual cases (κ = 0.10) between the 3 readers.

Conclusions

The recommendation of MRI to further evaluate STM lesions seen with US frequently fails to change the working diagnosis or provide significant diagnostic utility.
Changes in soil carbon and nitrogen stocks following degradation of alpine grasslands on the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Xiang , Wang Zhaoqi , Zheng Kai , Han Chenglong , Li Lanhai , Sheng Haiyan , Ma Zhiwen
Published: October 2020

Until now, nearly 90% of alpine grasslands on the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP) have been degraded. However, there is currently no consensus on how soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil total nitrogen (STN) stocks vary with the degradation succession of alpine grasslands in this region. Here, a meta‐analysis was conducted to quantify the dynamics of SOC and STN stocks in topsoil (0–30 cm) at different degradation stages of alpine grasslands on the QTP. The results showed that grassland degradation led to average losses of 48 and 39% for SOC and STN stocks, respectively. The changes in SOC and STN stocks following grassland degradation did not differ significantly between grassland types, but were significantly affected by grassland degradation stage. The reductions in both SOC and STN stocks increased with the degradation stage, and the highest reductions were all found at extreme degradation stage. The results indicated that the depletion of SOC and STN pools were aggravated with the degradation succession of grassland. The tightly coupled SOC and STN implied that the depletion of SOC stock was closely related to that of STN stock during the process of grassland degradation. Positive relationships were detected between the dynamics of vegetation coverage and that of SOC or STN stock, indicating that vegetation coverage could not only reflect grassland degradation, but might also be a potential indicator of SOC and STN status. The findings suggest that preventing the degradation succession of alpine grasslands is vital to maintain or promote SOC and STN levels on the QTP.
Better than any pill—and no side effects! Healthy lifestyles, statins, and aspirin
Authors: Elwood Peter C. , Longley Marcus , Greene Giles , Morgan Gareth , Watkins John , Pickering Janet , Watkins Angela , Protty Majd , Bayer Antony , Gallacher John
Published: October 2020

Behaviors which are associated with the preservation of health include nonsmoking, regular exercise, a low body weight, a healthy diet, and a low alcohol intake. Together, as a healthy lifestyle, these have been shown to be associated with marked protection against a wide range of diseases: diabetes, vascular disease, cancer, and dementia. On the other hand, the protection associated with statins and aspirin, the two most commonly used preventive drugs, is limited to vascular disease and, probably for aspirin, cancer.

These are not alternative prophylactics and any two, or all three—a healthy lifestyle, a statin, and aspirin—can reasonably be taken together.

Only a small proportion of the members of the community follow a healthy lifestyle. Yet a small increase in the uptake of the healthy behaviors throughout the community can be shown to have relatively large effects on the incidence of disease.

There is therefore an urgent need for health promotion activities across the whole community to be greatly increased and for new challenging and encouraging strategies to be devised and tested.
Essentially finite generation of valuation rings in terms of classical invariants
Authors: Cutkosky Steven Dale , Novacoski Josnei
Published: October 2020

The main goal of this paper is to study some properties of an extension of valuations from classical invariants. More specifically, we consider a valued field and an extension ω of ν to a finite extension L of K. Then we study when the valuation ring of ω is essentially finitely generated over the valuation ring of ν. We present a necessary condition in terms of classic invariants of the extension by Hagen Knaf and show that in some particular cases, this condition is also sufficient. We also study when the corresponding extension of graded algebras is finitely generated. For this problem we present an equivalent condition (which is weaker than the one for the finite generation of the valuation rings).
Associations Between Fluctuations in Daytime Sleepiness and Motor and Non‐Motor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Höglund Arja , Hagell Peter , Broman Jan‐Erik , Pålhagen Sven , Sorjonen Kimmo , Fredrikson Sten , Svenningsson Per
Published: October 2020

Background

Non‐motor fluctuations are a major concern in Parkinson's disease (PD), and they have been categorized into neuropsychiatric, autonomic and sensory fluctuations. However, this categorization does not include sleep and sleep‐related features, and the association between daytime sleepiness and other motor and/or non‐motor fluctuations in PD remains to be elucidated.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between daytime sleepiness and other non‐motor and motor fluctuations in people with PD.

Methods

A three‐day home diary recording daytime sleepiness, mood, anxiety, and motor symptoms was used along with the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale (KSS) and 6 days of accelerometer (Parkinson's KinetiGraph™; PKG™) registration to detect motor fluctuations among people with a DaTSCAN verified clinical PD diagnosis (32 men; mean PD duration, 8.2 years). Participants were categorized as motor fluctuators or non‐fluctuators according to the UPDRS part IV and/or the presence of motor and non‐motor fluctuations.

Results

Fifty‐two people with PD participated. Daytime sleepiness correlated significantly with motor symptoms, mood and anxiety among those classified as motor fluctuators (n = 28). Motor fluctuators showed stronger correlations between the individual mean level of all diary variables (daytime sleepiness, anxiety, mood and motor symptoms) when compared to the non‐fluctuators (n = 24). Stronger positive within‐individual correlations were found among fluctuators in comparison to non‐fluctuators. In general, PKG data did not correlate with diary data.

Conclusion

Episodes of daytime sleepiness, as reported by home diaries, were associated with other self‐reported non‐motor and motor fluctuations, but were not supported by PKG data.
Increasing Contrast Improves Object Perception in Parkinson's Disease with Visual Hallucinations
Authors: Díaz‐Santos Mirella , Monge Zachary A. , Salazar Robert D. , Gilmore Grover C. , Neargarder Sandy , Cronin‐Golomb Alice
Published: October 2020

Background

Deficits in basic vision are associated with visual hallucinations in Parkinson's disease. Of particular interest is contrast sensitivity loss in this disorder and its effect on object identification.

Objectives

Evaluate whether increased contrast improves object perception in persons with Parkinson's disease and visual hallucinations, without dementia.

Methods

We assessed 26 individuals with mild to moderate idiopathic Parkinson's disease, half of whom reported one or more episodes of hallucinations/unusual perceptual experiences in the past month, with a letter‐identification task that determined the contrast level required to achieve 80% accuracy. Contrast sensitivity was further assessed with a chart that presented stimuli at multiple spatial frequencies. The groups were closely matched for demographic and clinical characteristics except for experience of hallucinations.

Results

Relative to participants without visual hallucinations, those with hallucinations had poorer spatial frequency contrast sensitivity and required significantly greater contrast to correctly identify the letters on the identification task. Specifically, participants with hallucinations required a mean contrast of 52.8%, whereas participants without hallucinations required 35.0%. When given sufficient contrast, the groups with and without hallucinations were equally accurate in letter identification.

Conclusions

Compared to those without hallucinations, individuals with Parkinson's disease and hallucinations without dementia showed poorer contrast sensitivity. Once contrast was individually enhanced, the groups were equally accurate at object identification. These findings suggest the potential of visual perception tests to predict, and perception‐based interventions to reduce, hallucinations in Parkinson's disease.
Nursing‐sensitive indicators for nursing care: A systematic review (1997–2017)
Authors: Oner Beratiye , Zengul Ferhat D. , Oner Nurettin , Ivankova Nataliya V. , Karadag Ayise , Patrician Patricia A.
Published: October 2020

Aim

To provide a systematic review of the literature from 1997 to 2017 on nursing‐sensitive indicators.

Design

A qualitative design with a deductive approach was used.

Data sources

Original and Grey Literature references from Cochrane Library, Medline/PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL, Google Scholar Original and Grey Literature.

Review methods

Quality assessment was performed using the NIH Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross‐Sectional Studies.

Results

A total of 3,633 articles were identified, and thirty‐nine studies met the inclusion criteria. The quantitative assessment of investigated relationships in these studies suggests that nursing staffing, mortality, and nosocomial infections were the most frequently reported nursing‐sensitive indicators.

Conclusion

This review provides a comprehensive list of nursing‐sensitive indicators, their frequency of use, and the associations between these indicators and various outcome variables. Stakeholders of nursing research may use the findings to streamline the indicator development efforts and standardization of nursing‐sensitive indicators.

Impact

This review provides evidence‐based results that health organizations can benefit from nursing care quality.
Types of decentralisation and governance: Evidence from across the world
Authors: Camões Pedro J.
Published: October 2020

The relationship between decentralisation and quality of government is theoretically ambivalent and remains empirically mixed. The classical theory argues that decentralisation improves the ability of governments to fully respond to collective preferences. A different perspective points to some disadvantages related to problems of coordination and inertia. This paper provides a worldwide cross‐sectional analysis that tests these two contrasting views and the effect of democracy. The results robustly support that (a) decentralisation has an independent and positive effect on the quality of government, but that (b) political, fiscal and administrative types of decentralisation have quite different effects and that (c) the effect is attenuated when the effect of democracy is considered. Together, these results shed light with regard to the optimal design of reforms towards decentralisation across the world.
India's perverse fiscal federalism: Some suggestions for the 15th Finance Commission
Authors: Bhutani Saloni , Mishra Alok Kumar
Published: October 2020

Cities are the engines of economic growth, drivers of structural and spatial transformation processes, and the generators of wealth. However, city finances in India are in an abysmal state, and its urban local bodies are progressively losing fiscal autonomy. The problem is deeply rooted in the hierarchy set up defined as per the fiscal federalism framework adopted by the nation. The objective of the paper is to critically review India's federalism, discuss its prevailing expenditure‐revenue assignment framework, and analyse the key issues in fiscal decentralization. This paper overviews the entire public finance system in India, brings out the anomalies in expenditure and revenue assignments between the higher levels of government and the urban local bodies, and addresses the areas of concerns at the urban local government level. It also suggests policy measures to put Indian urban local bodies on a strong footing in the public finance map of India.
Experimental evidence for conservation conflict interventions: The importance of financial payments, community trust and equity attitudes
Authors: Rakotonarivo Onjamirindra S. , Jones Isabel L. , Bell Andrew , Duthie Alexander B. , Cusack Jeremy , Minderman Jeroen , Hogan Jessica , Hodgson Isla , Bunnefeld Nils
Published: October 2020

Conflicts between the objectives of agricultural production and conservation are becoming increasingly complex. Of vital importance to the success of conflict interventions is a detailed understanding of how stakeholders react to management interventions as well as the influence of interacting social and political factors.

Across Europe, goose populations have increased considerably, leading to widespread impacts on agriculture and significant conflicts between different stakeholder groups. We used a novel experimental game to understand farmer preferences regarding the design of goose conflict interventions in Scotland. We specifically examined how three alternative interventions (government financial support for scaring activities, subsidies and agglomeration payments that include bonus payments for adoption by neighbouring farms) affect farmer propensity to support goose conservation interests through reduced shooting and the provision of sacrificial crops. We also examined the links between within‐game behaviour and real‐life attributes and attitudes of farmers.

We found that all three interventions were conducive to pro‐conservation behaviour in the games. The effects of all three interventions were stronger among farmers who had higher trust towards other community members. Agglomeration payments led to increased provision of sacrificial crops among farmers with negative attitudes towards the current allocation of goose finances in Scotland. Farmers with more positive attitudes towards wildlife tourism were more likely to provide more sacrificial crops, and less likely to shoot in the games.

Farmers' real‐life traits had a statistically significant but marginal impact on the effectiveness of financial payments, such as the number of geese being shot on their own lands, remoteness and crop damage by geese.

These game results provide evidence for the potential of innovative financial instruments in conflict management and their interactions with social factors such as community trust, equity attitude and real‐life shooting levels. Our study highlights the importance of socio‐political elements in fostering mutually beneficial outcomes in conservation conflicts in addition to addressing material losses to wildlife. We also show how games can help in addressing conservation conflicts in a wide range of settings.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
A novel palm sheath and sugarcane bagasse fiber based hybrid composites for automotive applications: An experimental approach
Authors: Marichelvam M. K. , Manimaran P , Verma Akarsh , Sanjay M. R. , Siengchin Suchart , Kandakodeeswaran K , Geetha M.
Published: October 2020

A novel hybrid composite was developed from natural fibers and the mechanical properties were investigated in this work. The palm sheath and sugarcane bagasse fibres were the natural fibers used and epoxy resin was the matrix. By using compression‐molding machine, various samples were prepared by varying the weight proportions of fibers. The performance of fibers was investigated under untreated and NaOH treated conditions. The tensile properties, flexural properties, hardness, and impact properties were evaluated using ASTM standards. The best sample was determined based on the experimental results. The best sample had the tensile strength of 19.80 ± 0.78 MPa, Young's Modulus of 0.953 ± 0.076 GPa, flexural strength of 28.79 MPa, impact strength of 2 kJ/m2, and the hardness value of 38.02 HD. The best sample was used to develop an automobile dashboard to justify its application.