bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compact third‐order microstrip bandpass filter designed by the distributed‐ to lumped‐element equivalence
Authors: Xu Jun , Xiao Fei , Cao Yu , Zhang Yong , Tang Xiaohong
Published: November 2018

In reality, it is not easy to design microstrip filters for the sake of distributed‐element effect. It is an effective approach to approximate distributed‐element structures through appropriate lumped‐element circuits. In this paper, some basic microstrip structures are discussed, whose equivalent lumped‐element circuits are derived. Then, a novel microstrip filter is obtained by connecting these microstrip structures, according to the similar topology of the third‐order lumped‐element bandpass filter. The equivalent lumped‐element counterpart of the proposed microstrip filter clearly reveals its physical mechanism, ie, how the resonances are created and coupled and how the transmission zeros are created. Furthermore, a set of the design formulas are presented, which can be used to calculate initial structure parameters and then facilitate design process. The proposed microstrip bandpass filter can realize a third‐order elliptic bandpass response with one transmission zero at each side of the passband. In addition, two short‐circuited stubs are added to input/output ports to create the third transmission zero. The filter is featured by good frequency selectivity and out‐of‐band suppression. For demonstration, an actual example was designed, fabricated, and measured.
Optimization and validation of simultaneous analyses of ecgonine, cocaine, and seven metabolites in human urine by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry using a one‐step solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Fernández Nicolás , Cabanillas Laura Marina , Olivera Nancy Mónica , Quiroga Patricia Noemí
Published: November 2018

The presence of ecgonine in urine has been proposed as an appropriate marker of cocaine use. Only a few methods have been published for their determination along with cocaine and the rest of its metabolites. Due to their high polarity and consequent solubility in water, these have low recoveries, which is why it is necessary to increase the sensitivity, by the formation of hydrochloric salts or multiderivatization of the analytes or by performing two solid‐phase extractions (SPEs), considerably increasing the time and cost of the analysis. This work describes a fast and fully validated procedure for the simultaneous detection and quantification of ecgonine, ecgonine‐methyl‐ester, benzoylecgonine, nor‐benzoylecgonine, m‐hydroxybenzoylecgonine, cocaethylene, cocaine, norcocaine, and norcocaethylene in human urine (500 μL) using one SPE and simple derivatization. Separation and quantification were achieved by gas chromatography–electron ionization–mass spectrometry (GC–EI–MS) in selected‐ion monitoring mode. Quantification was performed by the addition of deuterated analogs as internal standards. Calibration curves were linear in the adopted ranges, with determination coefficients higher than 0.99. The lower limits of quantification ranged from 2.5 to 10 ng/mL. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision, calculated in terms of relative standard deviation, were 1.2%–14.9% and 1.8%–17.9%, respectively. The accuracy, in terms of relative error, was within a ± 16.4% interval. Extraction efficiency ranged from 84% to 103%. Compared with existing methods, the procedure described herein is fast, since only one SPE is required, and cost‐effective. In addition, this method provides a high recovery for ecgonine, resulting in a better alternative to the previously published methods.
Heterodinuclear Group 13 Element Complexes of N4O6‐Type Dipyrrin with an Unsymmetrical Twisted Structure
Authors: Saikawa Makoto , Noda Takumu , Matsuoka Ryota , Nakamura Takashi , Nabeshima Tatsuya
Published: November 2018

Heterodinuclear group 13 element complexes of an N4O6‐type dipyrrin cyclic dimer were synthesized by the stepwise reaction with boron and group 13 elements (Al, Ga, and In). The macrocycles have a new type of unsymmetrical twisted (pseudo‐figure‐of‐eight) structure.
NH4OAc‐Promoted Cascade Approach towards Aberrant Synthesis of Chromene‐Fused Quinolinones
Authors: Kumari Santosh , Shakoor S. M. Abdul , Markad Datta , Mandal Sanjay K. , Sakhuja Rajeev
Published: November 2018

A concise cascade strategy for the synthesis of 6H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]quinolin‐6‐ones was developed from 4‐hydroxycoumarins and arylhydrazine hydrochlorides in DMSO. The synthetic strategy relies on dual role of ammonium acetate in generating 4‐aminophenyl coumarin from arylhydrazine via aryl radical formation, and Csp2‐H formylation of coumarin using DMSO as a methine source. The strategy is scalable, and an array of arylhydrazine hydrochlorides delivered chromene‐fused quinolinones in good to excellent yields.
Spatial quantification of community resilience in contexts where quantitative data are scarce: The case of Muzarabani district in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mavhura Emmanuel , Manyena Bernard
Published: November 2018

There has been an upsurge in tools for measuring resilience of the past decade. Despite this progress, we argue, there are few studies focusing on the spatial quantification of resilience in the context of multiple hazards, particularly in developing countries. Placing a particular emphasis on the contribution of geography to resilience studies, this paper examines the spatial variation of community resilience to disasters in Muzarabani, Zimbabwe. Place‐specific resilience variables are selected from the 2012 national census report to develop a disaster resilience index for Muzarabani district. A principal component analysis technique was used to analyse the overall and subcomponents of resilience to identify wards that needed policy intervention. Using the Geographical Information Systems tool to model the spatial variation of community resilience and its subcomponents, we found a geographic variation in community resilience across Muzarabani district, with the majority of the wards scoring low to below low levels of overall resilience. Although we view this study as being complementary to qualitative studies, it would appear quantifying and visualising resilience provide possible explanations and actions required for decision‐makers to address the resilience gaps and disaster risk reduction broadly.
Expression of PD‐L1 and CTLA‐4 in female urethral carcinoma
Authors: Ninomiya Sahoko , Kawahara Takashi , Mochizuki Taku , Ishiguro Yukari , Miyoshi Yasuhide , Otani Masako , Yao Masahiro , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Uemura Hiroji
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Although the tumors are often easily detected, a considerable number of patients with female urethral carcinoma are diagnosed in an advance stage. Thus, no evidence‐based therapeutic approach has been established. We herein report our experience in the treatment of three female patients with urethral carcinoma. We also examined the expression of PD‐L1 and CTLA‐4.

Case presentation

Three female patients pathologically diagnosed with urethral carcinoma, including urothelial carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and adenocarcinoma, between 2013 and 2017 were analyzed in this study. Two patients underwent urethrectomy with cystostomy. Immunohistochemistry was performed to assess the levels of PD‐L1 and CTLA‐4 expression in patients with urethral carcinoma. Eleven control cases of urethral carcinoma tissue were also stained.

Conclusion

This study revealed the expression of PD‐L1 and CTLA‐4 in female urethral carcinomas.
Evolving Business Intelligence and Data Analytics in Higher Education
Authors: Drake Brent M. , Walz Aaron
Published: November 2018

Over the past 20 years, many colleges and universities have made significant progress in building data warehouses and implementing business intelligence tools to provide better access to administrative data that were previously locked away in enterprise systems. However, the data architectures from the 1990s and 2000s are aging as new technologies offer expanded possibilities to collect, manage, and engage with data, including tapping into sources of data that were not available using previous approaches. This is coming at a time where there are increasing demands from stakeholders across higher education (internal and external) to “see the data” in response to constricting sources of funding, pressure to make higher education more affordable, changing student populations, and increased focus on student success and on‐time graduation. This chapter starts with a look at the historical approaches most schools have taken, then explores new analytic opportunities for IR offices and the impact these new technologies have on its operations while providing support for data‐driven decision‐making. The chapter concludes with a look at the future of business intelligence (BI) and data analytics and what it means for higher education.
Why Do Data and Decision Often Disagree? Analytical Framework to Facilitate Organizational Dynamics
Authors: Honda Hirosuke
Published: November 2018

The expansion of big data and analytics has led to the diffusion of institutional research functions across campus departments. In this new environment, IR professionals expect to lead and coordinate various institutional analyses. This article presents a four‐quadrant framework to facilitate the dynamics between data analysis and decision‐making.
A practical first step using needs assessment and a survey approach to implementing a clinical pharmacogenomics consult service
Authors: Zakinova Angela , Long‐Boyle Janel R. , French Deborah , Croci Rhiannon , Wilson Leslie , Phillips Kathryn A. , Kroetz Deanna L. , Shin Jaekyu , Tamraz Bani
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Genetic‐guided selection of nononcologic medications is not commonly practiced in general, and at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Health, specifically. Understanding the unique position of clinicians with respect to clinical pharmacogenetics (PG) at a specific institution or practice is fundamental for implementing a successful PG consult service.

Objectives

To assess clinicians' current practices, needs, and interests with respect to clinical PG at UCSF Health, a large tertiary academic medical center.

Methods

A list of 42 target medications with clinical PG recommendations was complied. Clinical specialties that routinely used the target medications were identified. A 12‐question survey focused on practice of PG for target medications was developed. Pharmacists and physicians were surveyed anonymously in several clinical specialties. Survey results were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Of the 396 clinicians surveyed, 76 physicians and 59 pharmacists participated, resulting in 27% and 50% average response rates, respectively. The current use of PG in clinical practice for physicians and pharmacists was 29% and 32%, respectively, however this number varied across clinical specialties from 0% to 80%. Of clinicians whom reported they do not currently apply PG, 63% of physicians and 54% of pharmacists expressed interest in integrating PG. However, the level of interest varied from 20% to 100% across specialties. Of the respondents, 64% of physicians and 56% of pharmacists elected to provide contact information to investigators to further discuss their interest related to clinical PG.

Conclusions

While PG is not uniformly practiced at UCSF Health, there is considerable interest in utilizing PG by the respondents. Our approach was successful at identifying clinicians and services interested in PG for specific drug‐gene pairs. This work has set a foundation for next steps to advance PG integration at UCSF Health. Clinicians can adopt our approach as preliminary work to build a clinical PG program at their institutions.
Cancer stem cells as a therapeutic target in bladder cancer
Authors: Aghaalikhani Nazi , Rashtchizadeh Nadereh , Shadpour Pejman , Allameh Abdolamir , Mahmoodi Marzieh
Published: November 2018

Bladder cancer is one of the most prevalent genitourinary cancers responsible for about 150,000 deaths per year worldwide. Currently, several treatments, such as endoscopic and open surgery, appended by local or systemic immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are used to treat this malignancy. However, the differences in treatment outcome among patients suffering from bladder cancer are considered as one of the important challenges. In recent years, cancer stem cells, representing a population of undifferentiated cells with stem‐cell like properties, have been eyed as a major culprit for the high recurrence rate in superficial papillary bladder cancer.

Cancer stem cells have been reported to be resistant to conventional treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy, which induce selective pressure on tumoral populations resulting in selection and growth of the resistant cells. Therefore, targeting the therapeutic aspects of cancer stem cells in bladder cancer may be promising.

In this study, we briefly discuss the biology of bladder cancer and then address the possible relationship between molecular biology of bladder cancer and cancer stem cells. Subsequently, the mechanisms of resistance applied by cancer stem cells against the conventional therapeutic tools, especially chemotherapy, are discussed. Moreover, by emphasizing the biomarkers described for cancer stem cells in bladder cancer, we have provided, described, and proposed targets on cancer stem cells for therapeutic interventions and, finally, reviewed some immunotargeting strategies against bladder cancer stem cells.
Circulating visfatin levels and cancers risk: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Masoumeh , Mianabadi Faezeh , Mehrad‐Majd Hassan
Published: November 2018

Visfatin levels have been reported to be abnormal in many types of cancers. However, epidemiological studies yielded inconsistent results. Therefore, a meta‐analysis was performed to assess the association between circulating visfatin levels and cancer risk. A systematic search was conducted for relevant studies in health‐related electronic databases up to March 2018. Data related to standard mean difference (SMD) and overall odds ratio (ORS) were collected and analyzed. Summary SMD and pooled OR with 95% CIs were calculated using a random‐effect model. Funnel plot and Egger's linear regression test were conducted to examine the risk of publication bias. A total of 27 studies with 2,693 cases and 3,040 healthy controls were included in meta‐analysis for pooling SMD analysis. The results of the meta‐analysis showed a significant higher visfatin levels in patients with various cancers than in controls, with a pooled SMD of 0.88, 95% CI = 0.56–1.20, p = 0.000. In subgroup, metaregression, Galbraith plot, and sensitivity analysis showed no substantial difference among all the analyzed factors. Data from 14 studies were also used for pooling ORs analysis. Metaresults revealed that high visfatin levels were associated with cancer risk (OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.14–1.34, p = 0.000). No evidence of publication bias was observed for pooling ORs and SMD analysis. This meta‐analysis indicated a significant association between high circulating visfatin levels and increased risk of various cancers. Visfatin may represent a potential biomarker for early detection of cancers who may benefit from preventive treatment.Note.
An overview of microRNAs: Biology, functions, therapeutics, and analysis methods
Authors: Saliminejad Kioomars , Khorram Khorshid Hamid Reza , Soleymani Fard Shahrzad , Ghaffari Seyed Hamidollah
Published: November 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs, which function in posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. They are powerful regulators of various cellular activities including cell growth, differentiation, development, and apoptosis. They have been linked to many diseases, and currently miRNA‐mediated clinical trial has shown promising results for treatment of cancer and viral infection. This review provides an overview and update on miRNAs biogenesis, regulation of miRNAs expression, their biological functions, and role of miRNAs in epigenetics and cell–cell communication. In addition, alteration of miRNAs following exercise, their association with diseases, and therapeutic potential will be explained. Finally, miRNA bioinformatics tools and conventional methods for miRNA detection and quantification will be discussed.
KCNQ1OT1 facilitates progression of non‐small‐cell lung carcinoma via modulating miRNA‐27b‐3p/HSP90AA1 axis
Authors: Dong Zhiwu , Yang Ping , Qiu Xiaojian , Liang Shuang , Guan Bing , Yang Haisheng , Li Feifei , Sun Li , Liu Huiling , Zou Guanghui , Zhao Kewen
Published: November 2018

Long noncoding RNA KCNQ1OT1 participates in the regulation of imprinted genes within the kcnq1 domain. But its roles in carcinogenesis and metastasis remain largely elusive. Herein, we evaluated its potential in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) progression. We demonstrated that the KCNQ1OT1 level was upregulated in NSCLC tissues and cell lines. High KCNQ1OT1 level correlated with poor overall and progression‐free survival in NSCLC patients. KCNQ1OT1 facilitated proliferation, migration, and invasion in H460 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of KCNQ1OT1 reduced the expression of HSP90AA1. KCNQ1OT1 presented a positive correlation with HSP90AA1 which predicted the tumor progression in NSCLC from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Intriguingly, KCNQ1OT1 modulated HSP90AA1 expression by sponging miR‐27b‐3p. MiR‐27b‐3p counteracted the effect of KCNQ1OT1 on HSP90AA1 expression, H460 cell migration, and invasion. These data revealed a role for KCNQ1OT1 as an oncogene through miR‐27b‐3p/HSP90AA1 axis during NSCLC progression.
Retracted: Synthesis, Characterization, and Surface Activities of Polymeric Cationic Thiol Surfactants in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Zaky Mohamed F. , Sabbah Ibrahim A. , Hendawy Mostafa E. , Abdel Hameed Reda S. , Negm Nabel A.
Published: November 2018

A series of cationic polyurethane surfactants [PQ8‐18] were synthesized by the reaction of alkyl bromoacetate (namely: octyl‐, decyl‐, dodecyl‐, tetradecyl‐, hexadecyl‐, and octadecyl bromoacetate) as quaternizing agents and modified polyurethane contains tertiary amine species. Modified polyurethane was prepared by the reaction of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and triethanol amine monomercaptoacetate. The chemical structures of the prepared surfactants were confirmed using elemental analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. The molecular weight measurements of the prepared polymers showed that the segments of each polymer contain average 10 units of the urethane‐triethanol amine mercaptoacetate. The surface activities of the prepared surfactants including: surface tension (γ), effectiveness (
πcmc), concentration at micelle formation (CMC), efficiency (Pc20), maximum concentration at the interface (Γmax), and the average area occupied by each surfactant molecule at the interface at equilibrium (
A
min) of surfactants solutions were established at 25°C. The surface tension and the critical micelle concentration values of the prepared surfactants were gradually decreased by the gradual increase of their alkyl chain length. The prepared cationic surfactants showed efficient activity as inhibitors for dissolution of carbon steel in an acidic medium and also as a biocide against the growth of bacteria, fungi, and yeast.
Mechanical properties and quality parameters of chitosan‐edible algae (Palmaria palmata) on ready‐to‐eat strawberries
Authors: Rico Daniel , Barcenilla Beatriz , Meabe Agate , González Cristina , Martín‐Diana Ana B
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Strawberries are appreciated for their taste, flavor, and juiciness; however, they are highly perishable during postharvest, handling, and storage stages, producing significant physical damage and loss of vitamins and other phytonutrients. This study therefore aimed to determine the applicability of edible coatings as an environmentally friendly strategy to improve the fresh appearance of strawberries and extend their shelf life.

RESULTS

The effectiveness of edible coatings formulated with chitosan (CHC) or chitosan and algae (Palmaria palmata Kuntze) (CH‐PC) was investigated with regard to quality and nutritional parameters for ready‐to‐eat strawberries processed and stored at 4 °C for 10 days. Chitosan significantly (P < 0.05) controlled the gradual decline of strawberries, reducing their respiration rate, microbial load, and nutritional loss. The addition of P. palmata to the edible coating significantly (P < 0.05) enhanced anthocyanin and ascorbic acid content.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that CH‐PC could be used in the strawberry postharvest industry to slow senescence, while reducing product loss and enhancing its nutritional value. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Quantitative risk assessment of Listeria monocytogenes in bulk cooked meat from production to consumption in China: a Bayesian approach
Authors: Sun Wanxia , Liu Yangtai , Wang Xiang , Liu Qing , Dong Qingli
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

To estimate the public health risk related to cooked meat in bulk products contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a generic Bayesian network (BN) risk‐assessment model was developed to simulate influencing factors and processes of products from the industry level to the consumer level. To quantify the model, parameter values of prior distributions were acquired from the literature, websites, and expert opinions. Using the Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation approach, posterior probability distributions were calculated according to the incorporated evidence, which allowed us to predict various risks affected by processing variability from production to consumption.

RESULTS

The average risks of listeriosis from consuming cooked meat in bulk products are 8.40 × 10−7, 2.58 × 10−8, 8.24 × 10−7, and 1.05 × 10−6 per meal for children, young people, elderly people, and pregnant women, respectively. The estimated mean number of listeriosis cases is 5 per 100 000 people per year in China.

CONCLUSION

Although only a conceptual BN model is given, it manifests the principles and characteristics of mathematical methods. The BN model can also provide significant benefits for quantitative risk assessment by incorporating all available data and by updating beliefs. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Spontaneous revegetation versus forestry reclamation—Vegetation development in coal mining spoil heaps across Central Europe
Authors: Šebelíková Lenka , Csicsek Gábor , Kirmer Anita , Vítovcová Kamila , Ortmann‐Ajkai Adrienne , Prach Karel , Řehounková Klára
Published: November 2018

Comparison of spontaneous revegetation and forestry reclamation can provide valuable information about the trajectories and rate of vegetation development applicable to restoration practice over broader geographical scales. In the current study, we sampled terrestrial vegetation in spontaneously revegetated and forestry reclaimed spoil heaps after brown coal mining differing in age in three regions across Central Europe (Germany, the Czech Republic, and Hungary). The main objective was to compare the course of vegetation development and species richness between the two restoration methods over a large geographical scale. In all geographical regions, species richness was higher on spontaneously revegetated sites. Although the starting point differed across regions, trajectories to woodland development converged with time. In addition, spontaneous revegetation was comparably as fast as forestry reclamation in developing towards woodland. Spontaneous revegetation proved to be more valuable and cost‐effective in terms of nature conservation and should be considered as an alternative restoration strategy to forestry reclamation in Central Europe.
Human Study on the Kinetics of 2′R‐Ochratoxin A in the Blood of Coffee Drinkers
Authors: Sueck Franziska , Cramer Benedikt , Czeschinski Peter , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich
Published: November 2018

Scope

The aim of this study is to obtain a deeper knowledge of the kinetics of 2′R‐ochratoxin A (2′R‐OTA), the thermal degradation product of the mycotoxin ochratoxin A (OTA). To investigate the correlation between the amount of this compound in roasted coffee and human blood samples, a human study is performed.

Methods and Results

An 18‐week human study is carried out. During the first eight weeks, all known 2′R‐OTA‐containing food sources are excluded from the diet and the reduction of 2′R‐OTA in venous blood is analyzed. Afterwards, participants are allowed to consume coffee with known OTA and 2′R‐OTA concentrations. On a biweekly scale, 2′R‐OTA and OTA blood levels are determined. After eight weeks of fasting on 2′R‐OTA‐containing foods, the 2′R‐OTA blood concentration decreased by about 10%. Based on this, a long biological half‐life of over seven months is estimated. In the 24 h urine samples collected before and after the coffee fasting period, only traces of 2′R‐OTA are detected.

Conclusion

Results show that 2′R‐OTA has a more than seven‐fold higher biological half‐life in human blood compared to OTA (approx. 35 days). The reason for the long persistence of 2′R‐OTA in human blood is still unclear and further research is needed.
Cherenkov imaging for linac beam shape analysis as a remote electronic quality assessment verification tool
Authors: Miao Tianshun , Bruza Petr , Pogue Brian W. , Jermyn Michael , Krishnaswamy Venkataramanan , Ware William , Rafie Frank , Gladstone David J. , Williams Benjamin B.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

A remote imaging system tracking Cherenkov emission was analyzed to verify that the linear accelerator (linac) beam shape could be quantitatively measured at the irradiation surface for Quality Audit (QA).

Methods

The Cherenkov camera recorded 2D dose images delivered on a solid acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic phantom surface for a range of square beam sizes, and 6 MV photons. Imaging was done at source to surface distance (SSD) of 100 cm and compared to GaF film images and linac light fields of the same beam sizes, ranging over 5 × 5 cm2 up to 20 × 20 cm2. Line profiles of each field were compared in both X and Y jaw directions. Each measurement was repeated on two different Clinac2100 machines. An interreader comparison of the beam width interpretation was completed using procedures commonly employed for beam to light field coincidence verification. Cherenkov measurements are also done for beams of complex treatment plan and isocenter QA.

Results

The Cherenkov image widths matched with the measured GaF images and light field images, with accuracy in the range of ±1 mm standard deviation. The differences between the measurements were minor and within tolerance of geometrical requirement of standard linac QA procedures conducted by human setup verification, which had a similar error range. The measurement made by the remote imaging system allowed for beam shape extraction of radiation fields at the SSD location of the beam.

Conclusions

The proposed Cherenkov image acquisition system provides a valid way to remotely confirm radiation field sizes and provides similar information to that obtained from the linac light field or GaF film estimates of the beam size. The major benefit of this approach is that with a fixed installation of the camera, testing could be done completely under software control with automated image analysis, potentially simplifying conventional QA procedures with appropriate calibration of boundary definitions, and the natural extension to capturing dynamic treatment beamlets at SSD could have future value, such as verification of beam plans with complex beam shapes, like IMRT or “star‐shot” QA for the isocenter.
The perspectives of physiotherapists on managing nonspecific low back pain following a training programme in cognitive functional therapy: A qualitative study
Authors: Cowell Ian , O'Sullivan Peter , O'Sullivan Kieran , Poyton Ross , McGregor Alison , Murtagh Ged
Published: November 2018

Background:It has long been acknowledged that nonspecific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) is associated with a complex combination of biopsychosocial (BPS) factors, and recent guidelines advocate that the management of back pain should reflect this multidimensional complexity. Cognitive functional therapy (CFT) is a behaviourally oriented intervention that targets patients' individual BPS profiles. Although the efficacy of CFT has been demonstrated in primary care, little evidence exists about the training requirements of this approach.

Methods:Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with 10 physiotherapists working in primary care, who had undergone a formal training programme in CFT. A purposive sampling method was employed to seek the broadest perspectives. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview transcripts and capture the emergent themes.

Results:Five main themes emerged: (i) the learning challenge; (ii) self‐reported changes in confidence; (iii) self‐reported changes in communication practice; (iv) self‐reported changes in attitudes and understanding; (v) the physiotherapists felt that CFT was more effective than their usual approach for NSCLBP but identified barriers to successful implementation, which included a lack of time and difficulties in engaging patients with strong biomedical beliefs.

Conclusions:The study suggested that training in CFT has the capacity to produce self‐reported changes in physiotherapists' attitudes, confidence and practice. The provision of such training has implications in terms of time and costs; however, this this may be warranted, given the physiotherapists' strong allegiance to the approach compared with their usual practice.
Chemical modification of poly(lactic acid) induced by thermal decomposition of N‐acetoxy‐phthalimide during extrusion
Authors: Rolere Sébastien , Monge Sophie , Rakotonirina Mamy Daniel , Guillaneuf Yohann , Gigmes Didier , Robin Jean‐Jacques
Published: November 2018

Chemical modification of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) with N‐acetoxy‐phthalimide (NAPI) was performed in the melt by reactive extrusion, without using any peroxide initiator. The aminyl and nitroxide radicals produced from the NAPI thermal degradation, were, respectively, used (a) to create PLA macroradicals, and (b) to functionalize the PLA samples through nitroxide radical coupling. Depending on the extrusion temperature and the initial NAPI concentration, grafting rates up to 0.24 mol % were measured, modifying the PLA optical properties. This study represents an original new way of modification of PLA without the use of conventional peroxide initiators. Indeed, the undesirable side reactions (PLA branching or crosslinking) usually observed when using peroxides to initiate the radical grafting of PLA were avoided when using NAPI. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 120–129
Highly branched and high‐molecular‐weight polyethylenes produced by 1‐[2,6‐bis(bis(4‐fluorophenyl)methyl)‐4‐MeOC6H2N]‐2‐aryliminoacenaphthylnickel(II) halides
Authors: Wu Ruikai , Wang Yifan , Guo Liwei , Guo Cun‐Yue , Liang Tongling , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: November 2018

A series of unsymmetrical 1‐[2,6‐bis(bis(4‐fluorophenyl)methyl)‐4‐MeOC6H2N]‐2‐aryliminoacenaphthene‐nickel(II) halides has been synthesized and fully characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), 13C NMR, and 19F NMR spectroscopy as well as elemental analysis. The structures of Ni1 and Ni6 have been confirmed by the single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. On activation with cocatalysts either ethylaluminum sesquichloride or methylaluminoxane, all the title nickel complexes display high activities toward ethylene polymerization up to 16.14 × 106 g polyethylene (PE) mol−1(Ni) h−1 at 30 °C, affording PEs with both high branches (up to 103 branches/1000 carbons) and molecular weight (1.12 × 106 g mol−1) as well as narrow molecular weight distribution. High branching content of PE can be confirmed by high temperature 13C NMR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. In addition, the PE exhibited remarkable property of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) with high tensile strength (σb = 21.7 MPa) and elongation at break (εb = 937%) as well as elastic recovery (up to 85%), indicating a better alternative to commercial TPEs. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 130–145
Preparation of ZnO nanoparticle‐reinforced polyamide 6 composite by in situ‐coproduced method and their properties
Authors: Xu Qijie , Zhang Ning , Li Wei , Zhang Shuang , He Weiwei
Published: November 2018

Polyamide 6/ZnO nanocomposites (noted as PA6/ZnO) were prepared by an in situ co‐producing method, during which Zn2(OH)2CO3 decomposed into nano‐ZnO in the process of the opening‐ring polymerization of caprolactam at high temperature. Transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry were used to analyze the size and dispersive properties of nano‐ZnO, the crystallization and melting properties, the thermal properties, and crystal structure of PA6/ZnO composite, respectively. The results showed that the nano‐ZnO derived from Zn2(OH)2CO3 via in situ polymerization of PA6‐ZnO was uniformly dispersed in PA6 matrix. However, the overall nano‐ZnO crystallization rate and crystal size in the PA6 matrix were hindered by the bulky PA6 molecular chains. The mechanical properties were evaluated using universal tensile and impact testing instruments. The results revealed that PA6/ZnO composite with 0.2% nano‐ZnO content possessed excellent tensile strength, enhanced by 75% in comparison with the pure PA6. The nano‐ZnO had little influence on the impact strength of PA6. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 165–170
Alternative digestion approaches improve histone modification mapping by mass spectrometry in clinical samples
Authors: Restellini Camilla , Cuomo Alessandro , Lupia Michela , Giordano Marco , Bonaldi Tiziana , Noberini Roberta
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Profiling histone posttranslational modifications (PTMs) in clinical samples holds great potential for the identification of epigenetic biomarkers and the discovery of novel epigenetic targets. MS‐based approaches to analyze histone PTMs in clinical samples usually rely on SDS‐PAGE separation following histone enrichment in order to eliminate detergents and further isolate histones. However, this limits the digestions options and hence the modification coverage.

Experimental design and results

The aim of this study is the implementation of a procedure involving acetone protein precipitation followed by histone enrichment through a C18 StageTip column to obtain histone preparations suitable for various in‐solution digestion protocols. Among them, the Arg‐C digestion, which allows profiling histone H4 modifications, and the Prop‐PIC method, which improves the detection of short and hydrophilic peptides, are tested. This approach is validated on different types of samples, including formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded pathology tissues, and employed to profile histone H4 modifications in cancer samples and normal tissues, identifying previously reported differences, as well as novel ones.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

This protocol widens the number of applications available in the toolbox of clinical epigenomics, allowing the investigation of a larger spectrum of histone marks in patient samples.
Quantitative Urinary Proteome Reveals Potential Biomarkers for Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction
Authors: Chen Honghao , Lin Houwei , Xu Maosheng , Xu Guofeng , Fang Xiaoliang , He Lei , Chen Zhoutong , Wu Zhixiang , Geng Hongquan
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a common obstructive disease. To investigate useful urinary biomarkers in UPJO children, the urinary proteome in UPJO infants is analyzed and it is compared with normal controls.

Experimental design

A tandem mass tag (TMT)‐based quantitative proteomics study is performed to analyze the proteome of bladder urine (BU) and pelvis urine (PU) from unilateral UPJO infants with differential renal function less than 40% and they are compared with normal control urine (CON). GO analysis is then utilized to analyze general characterization of the proteins. Proteomic results are verified by western blot.

Results

There are 81 and 186 proteins significantly changed in BU and PU groups, respectively, as compared to the CON group. Fifty proteins overlaps are found between these two sets of statistically significant differential proteins. These 50 common differential proteins are involved in multiple biological processes. The increased urinary abundance of Fetuin‐A, AGP1, AGP2, Alpha‐1‐microglobulin/Bikunin Precursor (AMBP), and prostaglandin‐H2D‐isomerase (PGDS) are verified by western blot analysis.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

This proteomic analysis indicates that urinary Fetuin‐A, AGP1, AGP2, protein AMBP, and PGDS may serve as noninvasive potential biomarkers and these proteins can help to further yield pathological mechanisms involved in UPJO.
Transcription factor FTZ‐F1 and cis‐acting elements mediate expression of CYP6BG1 conferring resistance to chlorantraniliprole in Plutella xylostella
Authors: Li Xiuxia , Shan Chunyang , Li Fen , Liang Pei , Smagghe Guy , Gao Xiwu
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Cytochrome P450‐mediated detoxification plays an important role in the development of insecticide resistance. Previous studies have demonstrated that overexpression of CYP6BG1 was responsible for permethrin resistance in Plutella xylostella, and our experiments also showed that upregulation of this gene is associated with chlorantraniliprole resistance in P. xylostella. However, the transcriptional regulation involved in the expression of CYP6BG1 remains unknown. To further investigate the regulation of CYP6BG1 expression, the promoters of this gene were cloned and analyzed from one susceptible and four different resistant populations of P. xylostella.

RESULTS

First, the promoter region of P. xylostella CYP6BG1 was compared in five populations, and three types of 5′‐flanking region were found. Second, the region between −562 and +49 of CYP6BG1 in a field population (TH) of P. xylostella showed the highest promoter activity and could be induced by chlorantraniliprole. Third, the transcriptional factor FTZ‐F1, which is an orphan nuclear receptor and binds to the fushi tarazu (ftz) gene, was predicted by the online software Alggen and Jaspar. It was proved to regulate the expression of CYP6BG1 by RNAi. The expression levels of FTZ‐F1 and CYP6BG1 could be induced by chlorantraniliprole and were significantly higher in the resistant populations.

CONCLUSIONS

These data give a better understanding of the transcriptional regulation of an important insecticide detoxification enzyme gene, and therefore will help in understanding the molecular mechanisms of insecticide resistance in P. xylostella. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Cross‐Section Analysis of the Composition of Sprayed Cu2ZnSnS4 Thin Films by XPS, EDS, and Multi‐Wavelength Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Valdés Matías , Pascual‐Winter María Florencia , Bruchhausen Axel , Schreiner Wido , Vázquez Marcela
Published: November 2018

A detailed cross‐section analysis of the chemical composition of sprayed Cu2ZnSnS4 thin films is presented. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy (with near‐IR, visible, and UV‐lasers) are used to demonstrate that while CZTS effectively forms within the bulk of the film, there is some degree of element segregation, formation of undesirable secondary phases, and the presence of a disordered kesterite structure across the film. Different penetration depths of the excitation signals correspond to the many different surface sensitive techniques employed in this work. XPS results reveal that the surface of Cu4ZnSnS4 (CZTS) films presents a high concentration of tin and zinc and a low sulfur concentration, while being highly depleted in copper. EDS, XRD, and infrared Raman spectroscopy confirm that the composition of as‐sprayed and sulfurized films is close to stoichiometric Cu2ZnSnS4. Resonant UV‐Raman spectroscopy helps to identify secondary phases located at the external surface of sprayed and sulfurized CZTS films (mainly ZnS, ZnO), while VIS‐Raman spectroscopy helps to identify a disordered kesterite structure close to the surface. Secondary phases need to be chemically etched when aiming at incorporating kesterite films obtained by spray pyrolysis into photovoltaic devices.
Sensible heating as a potential mechanism for enhanced cloud formation over temperate forest
Authors: Bosman Peter J. M. , van Heerwaarden Chiel C. , Teuling Adriaan J.
Published: November 2018

It has been recently shown for two forests in France (Les Landes and Sologne) that summer cloud cover over the forest is increased relative to its surroundings. This study aims to contribute to the elucidation of the physical mechanisms responsible for this increased cloud cover, focusing on surface flux partitioning. This was done by performing a case study for a heatwave day on which enhanced cloud cover over the forest of Les Landes was observed. Two numerical experiments (large‐eddy simulations) with a homogeneous forest cover were performed, one in which the sensible heat flux was increased by approximately 5% of the total available energy and another one in which the same amount of energy was added to the latent heat flux. The addition of energy to the sensible heat flux led to a stronger increase in cloud cover than the same addition to the latent heat flux. The mean relative humidity at the boundary layer top showed only small differences, indicating it was not a sufficient indicator for cloud formation in this case. Important information, which immediately underlines the need for large‐eddy simulations, is contained in modifications of the shape of the probability density functions of temperature and humidity. With enhanced sensible heating, the higher peak values of relative humidity contribute to an increased cloud cover. A crucial reason for the differences in cloud cover between the experiments is conjectured to be a decrease in the required amount of energy for air parcels to reach the lifting condensation level, indirectly caused by the boundary layer and near‐surface warming associated with the stronger sensible heat flux. As forests in the region do have a higher sensible heat flux than their surroundings, we highlight one potential mechanism for enhanced cloud cover.
An Additive of Sulfonic Lithium Salt for High‐Performance Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Luo Hui , Wu Jihuai , Liu Quanzhen , Zhang Mingjing , Yuan Pengqiang , Huang Miaoliang
Published: November 2018

The perovskite layer has an important influence on the photovoltaic performances of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In order to improve the morphology and crystallinity of the perovskite film, the additive of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) is introduced in the perovskite precursor solution. And the perovskite solar cell with architecture of FTO/compact TiO2/mesoporous TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3/spiro‐OMeTAD/Au is fabricated. By optimizing the concentration of LiTFSI, the fabricated PSC shows the best power conversion efficiency of 17.30% with a fixed device area of 1.5×1.5 cm2 under one sun illumination, while the device without LiTFSI introduction has an efficiency of 15.53% at the same test condition. The morphology observation and photoelectrical characterization demonstrate that the significant improvement of the device performance results from the charge carrier's fast transportation and less recombination for larger grain sizes and fewer grain boundaries by doping LiTFSI into perovskite precursor solution.
Facile Synthesis of Electrospun Nickel (II) Oxide Nanofibers and Its Application for Hydrogen Peroxide Sensing
Authors: Vadnala Sudharshan , Tripathy Suryasnata , Paul Nirupam , Agrawal Amit , Singh S. G.
Published: November 2018

The aim of the present study is to report an alternative technique of creating nickel oxide (NiO) nanofibers, manufactured by facile and economical electrospinning process. The crystallinity nature of NiO nanofibers is investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Nanofibers morphology is examined by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The diameter of the nanofibers is varying from of 100–150 nm. Furthermore, Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED) pattern revealed that NiO nanofibers are exhibiting a single phase crystalline structure. The NiO nanofibers modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) showed an excellent performance towards the electrocatalytic oxidation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This sensor showed a wide range of detection from 10 μM to 50 mM, low limit of detection 0.33 μM and high sensitivity 42.09 μA μM−1cm−2 for H2O2 detection. The entire analysis reaffirms the suitability of NiO nanofibers as one of the futuristic sensing material for H2O2 detection.
One‐pot, Four‐Component Green Synthesis, Carbonic Anhydrase II Inhibition and Docking Studies of 5‐Arylidenerhodanines
Authors: Mermer Arif , Demirbas Neslihan , Colak Ahmet , Demir Elif Ayazoglu , Kulabas Necla , Demirbas Ahmet
Published: November 2018

In the present study, a planning strategy for N‐substituted‐5‐arylidenerhodanines was developed by the condensation between 3‐morpholinopropan‐1‐amine, aldehyde, ethyl bromoacetate and carbon disulfide in the presence of trimethylamine in water via a one‐pot, sequential four component reaction at room temperature and additionally microwave and ultrasound irradiated techniques. The synthesis of arylidenerhodanine derivatives was performed through the optimized one pot strategy starting from commercially available materials in high yields and purity without troublesome work‐ups, after recrystallization from an appropriate solvent. Enzyme inhibition activity screening studies on CA II was also carried out. IC50 values of some of examined molecules could be determined and it was observed that they were nanomolar level except for 1r, and lower than that of reference molecule. The inhibition in the range of 8.6‐99.4% was seen in the presence of newly synthesized molecules at their reachable maximum concentration in the reaction mixtures. Among the examined molecules, 5a and 5p with the two lowest IC50 values were found to be the most potent inhibitors. In silico studies showed that all of the rhodanine derivatives have higher affinity than reference ligand against binding site, while none of the compounds have demonstrated any interaction with Zn2+ as with the classical sulfonamides.
Selective Navigation of Bisphenol‐A from Water to a Polarity Tuned Porous Molecularly Imprinted Polymer
Authors: Guin Jhimli Paul , Dinc Mehmet , Mizaikoff Boris
Published: November 2018

A novel water compatible thermally stable molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was synthesized with bi‐functional monomers such as methacrylic acid (MAA) and 4‐vinyl pyridine (4VP) in the presence of mixed porogens such as THF and toluene for selectively higher adsorption of potential genotoxic compound Bisphenol‐A (BPA) compared to other structurally comparable phenolic compounds from aqueous solution at pH 7.0. The specific adsorption capacity (56.58 mg/g) and selectivity for BPA compared to non imprinted polymer (NIP) (44.10 mg/g) were achieved at 298 K under optimized conditions. The mesoporous imprints in the macroporous polymeric structure, higher pore volume, higher surface area, synergistic effect of H‐bonding, van der Waals force and π‐π interaction in bi‐functional cavities of MIP improved the recognition selectivity of BPA compared to NIP. The comparison of experimental adsorption isotherm with sixteen adsorption isotherm models conferred that the adsorption of BPA on MIP happened to energetically heterogeneous sites of the imprinted polymer through a spontaneous exothermic process. The kinetics of adsorption of BPA by MIP was best modeled via non‐linear pseudo‐second order kinetics. That novel MIP was found to be reusable for several cycles. This is the first report of the synthesis of thermally stable and mesoporous MAA‐4VP bi‐functional bulk MIPs having excellent selectivity, rapid binding kinetics and appropriate adsorption capacity for adsorption of BPA in water.