bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Necessidade De Governança De Dados No Contexto De Violência Contra Mulher E Feminicídio
Authors: Soares Raul Coelho , Castro Breno Giovanni Adaid , Matos Claudio , Cordon Alex , Sampaio Thatiane Lima
Published: December 2024

Com o avanço da transformação digital, as organizações enfrentam o desafio de integrar dados internos e
externos, uma vez que esses dados se tornaram fundamentais para a tomada de decisões estratégicas.
Compreendendo esse cenário, este estudo objetiva investigar a necessidade de governança de dados no contexto
da violência contra a mulher e do feminicídio, enfatizando a relevância da gestão das informações para a
formulação de políticas públicas mais efetivas. Para tanto, a metodologia adotada inclui o mapeamento e a
padronização dos dados disponíveis nos portais da Secretaria de Segurança Pública do Distrito Federal
(SSP/DF), em conformidade com a legislação sobre violência de gênero. O foco é identificar as lacunas existentes
na coleta e na disponibilização das informações, bem como avaliar como essas lacunas impactam a eficácia das
ações de combate à violência contra a mulher. Os resultados revelam que a falta de integração e acessibilidade
dos dados dificulta a criação de soluções inovadoras e eficazes para enfrentar essa problemática. Muitas
iniciativas não são implementadas devido à ausência de dados estruturados ou à dificuldade na integração das
informações provenientes de diferentes sistemas. Além disso, o tempo e os custos associados à integração dos
dados muitas vezes inviabilizam propostas que poderiam contribuir para uma transformação digital significativa
nas políticas de segurança pública. Diante desse cenário, propõe-se a implementação de uma política pública de
tecnologia da informação (TI) que assegure a governança adequada dos dados. Para isso, recomenda-se a
adoção das diretrizes do Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBOK) como referência para o
desenvolvimento de práticas eficazes na gestão de dados. Essa abordagem não apenas facilitará o acesso às
informações necessárias, mas também permitirá um melhor entendimento da violência contra a mulher e do feminicídio no Distrito Federal, contribuindo assim para um combate mais eficaz a essa questão social urgente
The Influence Of Customer Value, Experiential Marketing On Customer Loyalty With Customer Satisfaction As An Intervening Variable
Authors: Rimiyati Hasnah , Rahmadhani Muhammad Fitra
Published: December 2024

Background: The aim of this research is to analyze the influence of customer value, experiential marketing on
customer loyalty with customer satisfaction as an intervening variable (study of Gojek service users in the Special
Region of Yogyakarta). The research sample consisted of 150 respondents selected based on nonprobability
sampling, with a purposive sampling technique. Data collection was carried out through the use of a
questionnaire. The data analysis method used is Structural Equational Modeling (SEM) with processing using
the AMOS version 24 program. The results of this research show that customer value has a positive and
significant effect on customer satisfaction. Experiential marketing has a positive and significant effect on
customer satisfaction. Customer value has a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty. Experiential
marketing has a positive and significant effect on customer loyalty. Customer satisfaction has a positive and
significant effect on customer loyalty. Customer satisfaction is able to partially mediate the influence of customer value on customer loyalty. And customer satisfaction is able to partially mediate the influence of experiential marketing on customer loyalty
Probabilistic Representation and Inverse Design of Metamaterials Based on a Deep Generative Model with Semi‐Supervised Learning Strategy
Authors: Ma Wei , Cheng Feng , Xu Yihao , Wen Qinlong , Liu Yongmin
Published: July 2019

The research of metamaterials has achieved enormous success in the manipulation of light in a prescribed manner using delicately designed subwavelength structures, so‐called meta‐atoms. Even though modern numerical methods allow for the accurate calculation of the optical response of complex structures, the inverse design of metamaterials, which aims to retrieve the optimal structure according to given requirements, is still a challenging task owing to the nonintuitive and nonunique relationship between physical structures and optical responses. To better unveil this implicit relationship and thus facilitate metamaterial designs, it is proposed to represent metamaterials and model the inverse design problem in a probabilistically generative manner, enabling to elegantly investigate the complex structure–performance relationship in an interpretable way, and solve the one‐to‐many mapping issue that is intractable in a deterministic model. Moreover, to alleviate the burden of numerical calculations when collecting data, a semisupervised learning strategy is developed that allows the model to utilize unlabeled data in addition to labeled data in an end‐to‐end training. On a data‐driven basis, the proposed deep generative model can serve as a comprehensive and efficient tool that accelerates the design, characterization, and even new discovery in the research domain of metamaterials, and photonics in general.
Dynamic Assembly of Small Parts in Vortex–Vortex Traps Established within a Rotating Fluid
Authors: Lee Taehoon , Sobolev Yaroslav I. , Cybulski Olgierd , Grzybowski Bartosz A.
Published: July 2019

Stable, purely fluidic particle traps established by vortex flows induced within a rotating fluid are described. The traps can manipulate various types of small parts, dynamically assembling them into high‐symmetry clusters, cages, interlocked architectures, jammed colloidal monoliths, or colloidal formations on gas bubbles. The strength and the shape of the trapping region can be controlled by the strengths of one or both vortices and/or by the system's global angular velocity. The system exhibits a range of interesting dynamical behaviors including a Hopf‐bifurcation transition between equilibrium‐point trapping and the so‐called limit cycle in which the particles are confined to circular orbits. Theoretical considerations indicate that these vortex–vortex traps can be further miniaturized to manipulate objects with sizes down to ≈10 µm.
Bright Silver Brilliancy from Irregular Microstructures in Butterfly Curetis acuta Moore
Authors: Liu Xianghui , Wang Dantong , Yang Zhiwei , Zhou Han , Zhao Qibin , Fan Tongxiang
Published: July 2019

Structural whiteness in nature is one of the useful optical phenomena contributed by refined microstructures and serves important biological functions. However, whiteness residing in wings, antennae, and bodies of butterflies often draws less attention, with undetected physical mechanisms and applications. Here, it is discovered that bright silver scales on the ventral side of butterfly Curetis acuta Moore have enhanced broadband reflection with particular angle dependency, which is dominated by the irregularity of scales. The broadband reflection is the result of color mixing effect caused by laminated scales with irregular layer space and thickness. The special angle dependency suggests that the reflection intensity changes with azimuth angles but remains unvaried at different viewing angles along given direction. This is the consequence of diffraction caused by ridges and irregular holes on the scales, which generates the shining effect and extends the viewing angle of broadband reflection. The characteristic reflection property is speculated to be used for intraspecific communication. Furthermore, it is found that the broadband reflection property of the silver scales is helpful to lower the body temperature under direct sunshine. These findings for light and thermo controlling would offer a potential strategy to design bioinspired advanced materials for low‐energy, reflectance‐based applications.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Alternating Ring‐Opening Metathesis Copolymerization of Norborn‐2‐ene with Cyclic Olefins
Authors: Paradiso Veronica , Grisi Fabia
Published: July 2019

A Grubbs‐type olefin metathesis catalyst bearing a backbone‐substituted unsymmetrical N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand has been prepared from readily available reagents using a four‐step synthetic protocol. This catalyst was found able to promote the alternating ring‐opening metathesis copolymerization of norborn‐2‐ene (NBE) with cis‐cyclooctene (COE) or cyclopentene (CPE) with a high degree of chemoselectivity (98% and 95% of alternating diads, respectively) at low comonomers ratios.

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Structural Origins of BaF2/Ba1 −xRxF2 +x/RF3 Nanocrystals Formation from Phase Separated Fluoroaluminosilicate Glass: A Molecular Dynamic Simulation Study
Authors: Zhao Junjie , Xu Xiuxia , Ren Kai , Luo Zhou , Qiao Xvsheng , Du Jincheng , Qiu Jianbei , Fan Xianping , Qian Guodong
Published: July 2019

Fluoroaluminosilicate glass‐ceramics with M1 − x RxF2 + x (M2+: Sr2+, Ba2+, R3+: rare earth ions) crystals are novel host materials for luminescence applications. However, the preparation of such materials is still a trial‐error based approach due to the lack of detailed glass structure understanding. In this work, the authors study the phase separation and potential nanocrystal formation in a series of Ba2+ and La3+ containing fluoroaluminosilicate glasses by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Fluoride phase separation is observed from all simulated glass samples. With gradual LaF3 to BaF2 substitution, the cations enrichment changes from Ba2+, to Ba2+ and La3+, and finally La3+ in the fluoride‐rich regions. Besides, the competition between Al3+ and La3+ in fluoride phase and the consequently redistribution of Al3+ and Na+ into oxide phase are observed, which can change the local environment of luminescent centers, affecting luminescence. An experimental support to this phenomenon is given. Therefore, MD simulation with effective potentials can be a practical method to study the structural origins of nanocrystal from fluoride phase separation as well as to study the structure‐property relationship in fluoroaluminosilicate glass. The simulation driven glass structure and crystal phase exploration can thus become an effective method in designing glass‐ceramics for luminescence and other applications.
Influence of Linked Bridges on Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Characteristic for DCBPy Emitter
Authors: Gao Ying , Yang Xiao‐Dong , Wu Shui‐Xing , Geng Yun
Published: July 2019

In this work, four compounds (2–5) are designed based on reported DCBPy (1) to investigate the influence of linked bridges on thermally activated delayed fluorescence properties. The results indicate that 2–5 have stronger oscillator strength and higher fluorescence radiative rate (kr) after introducing linked bridges. But, the increased local‐excitation and decreased charge‐transfer natures in the lowest singlet and triplet excited states lead to larger singlet‐triplet energy splitting (ΔΕST) for 2–5 than 1. The potential reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) channels are speculated for 1–5 by considering the higher triplet excited state and spin‐orbit coupling (SOC) matrix element. It is concluded that the introduction of bridges noticeably enhances the SOC between singlet (Sn) and triplet (Tn) excited states. By analyzing the excited state energies and transition natures, 2 and 3 are expected to undergo a T3 to S1 RISC process, and 4 and 5 are expected to undergo a RISC more significantly via T2 to S1 because of the almost equal energy levels and strong SOC.
Single Halide Perovskite/Semiconductor Core/Shell Quantum Dots with Ultrastability and Nonblinking Properties
Authors: Tang Xiaosheng , Yang Jie , Li Shiqi , Liu Zhengzheng , Hu Zhiping , Hao Jiongyue , Du Juan , Leng Yuxin , Qin Haiyan , Lin Xing , Lin Yue , Tian Yuxi , Zhou Miao , Xiong Qihua
Published: July 2019

The further practical applications of halide perovskite quantum dots (QDs) are blocked by problems of instability and nonradiative Auger recombination manifested as photoluminescence blinking. Here, single core/shell structured perovskite semiconductor QDs are successfully fabricated by capping CsPbBr3 QD core with CdS shell. It is demonstrated that CsPbBr3/CdS core/shell QDs exhibit ultrahigh chemical stability and nonblinking photoluminescence with high quantum yield due to the reduced electronic traps within the core/shell structure. Efficiency of amplified spontaneous emission exhibits obvious enhancement compared to that of pure CsPbBr3 QDs, originating from the mitigated competition between stimulated emission and suppressed nonradiative biexciton Auger recombination. Furthermore, low‐threshold whispering‐gallery‐mode lasing with a high‐quality factor is achieved by incorporating CsPbBr3/CdS QDs into microtubule resonators. Density functional theory (DFT)‐based first‐principles calculations are also performed to reveal the atomic interface structure, which supports the existence of CsPbBr3/CdS structure. An interesting feature of spatially separated charge density at CsPbBr3/CdS interface is found, which may greatly contribute to the suppressed Auger recombination. The results provide a practical approach to improve the stability and suppress the blinking of halide perovskite QDs, which may pave the way for future applications for various optoelectronic devices.
Boost the Performance of Triboelectric Nanogenerators through Circuit Oscillation
Authors: Xu Sixing , Ding Wenbo , Guo Hengyu , Wang Xiaohong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: July 2019

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) which harvests ubiquitous ambient mechanical energy is a promising power source that can meet the distributed energy demand in the internet of things, wearable electronics, etc. However, the available output of TENG is severely limited by the saturated polarized charge density, small intrinsic capacitance, and large matching impedance. Herein, an effective power management strategy is proposed that flips the free charges on the conductive layer through a controlled LC oscillating circuit composed of the diode, switch, inductor, and the intrinsic capacitor of TENG. In this way, the equivalent charge density reaches a level higher than the saturated polarized charge density. The simulation and experiments show that the limit of energy output can be exceeded under arbitrary load resistance, especially for the low‐impedance common electronics. It is believed that such a general, low‐cost, and highly effective strategy can further broaden the applications of TENG devices across the fields and probably be a new performance evaluation standard for TENG.
Animal Model of Chronic Tympanic Membrane Perforation
Authors: Langston Michael , Grobman Ariel , Goncalves Stefania , Angeli Simon I.
Published: July 2019

Chronic tympanic membrane perforations (TMP) can be a source of significant morbidity from hearing loss, recurrent middle ear infections, changes in lifestyle, and risk of cholesteatoma formation. Laboratory experiments of TMP have been fraught by the rapid and high rate of spontaneous healing observed in animal models. There is controversy on the minimal time that perforations in animal models must have in order to be considered chronic TMP and thus have clinical relevance, with authors suggesting time periods of perforation patency of 8–12 weeks. In this article, we sought to create a clinically significant experimental model that could yield a high rate of perforation patency for at least 8 weeks. Animals undergoing acute TMP were exposed to three different experimental situations to delay the healing of the perforation: fractionated radiation, topical lipopolysaccharide application, and a combined dexamethasone and mitomycin C (DXM/MC) solution. In our study, the use of DXM/MC reliably produced TMP lasting at least 8 weeks in 86.48% of the cases without the need to reopen the perforation, infolding the edges of the membrane, or using physical barriers to prevent TMP closure. Histologically, the resulting perforated tympanum showed hyaline changes of the remnant tympanum and hyperkeratosis of the squamous epithelia of the external auditory canal. We believe that this model is reproducible and has potential use in experiments of delayed healing of TMP. Anat Rec, 303:619–625, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
The Generation of Zebrafish Mariner Model Using the CRISPR/Cas9 System
Authors: Zou Bing , Desmidt Alexandra A. , Mittal Rahul , Yan Denise , Richmond Micheal , Tekin Mustafa , Liu Xue Zhong , Lu Zhongmin
Published: July 2019

Targeted genome editing mediated by clustered, regularly interspaced, short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated nuclease 9 (Cas9) technology has emerged as a powerful tool for gene function studies and has great potential for gene therapy. Although CRISPR/Cas9 has been widely used in many research fields, only a few successful zebrafish models have been established using this technology in hearing research. In this study, we successfully created zebrafish mariner mutants by targeting the motor head domain of Myo7aa using CRISPR/Cas9. The CRISPR/Cas9‐generated mutants showed unbalanced swimming behavior and disorganized sterocilia of inner ear hair cells, which resemble the phenotype of the zebrafish mariner mutants. In addition, we found that CRISPR/Cas9‐generated mutants have reduced number of stereociliary bundles of inner ear hair cells and have significant hearing loss. Furthermore, phenotypic analysis was performed on F0 larvae within the first week post fertilization, which dramatically shortens data collection period. Therefore, results of this study showed that CRISPR/Cas9 is a quick and effective method to generate zebrafish mutants as a model for studying human genetic deafness. Anat Rec, 303:556–562, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Dynamic mechanism for the evolution and rapid intensification of Typhoon Hato (2017)
Authors: Zhang Renwen , Huangfu Jingliang , Hu Ting
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the evolution of Typhoon Hato (1713) and analyzed the inner dynamics of its rapid intensification. The moving path of Hato was controlled by the southwestern part of the western Pacific subtropical high which extended westward significantly. Due to a relatively steady leading steering flow, the trajectory of Hato showed a straight ESE to WNW direction, leading to disastrous rainfall in southern Guangdong Province on 23 August before and after the landfall of the typhoon. In addition, Typhoon Hato exhibited a rapid intensification period from 3 to 13 o'clock on 23 August, with central wind speeds increasing from 35 to 48 m/s. This study mainly examined the inner dynamics of the development of Hato, especially its rapid intensification period. The regression analysis results showed that Hato was generated and developed under a TD‐type‐like wave. The coupled convection and vortex provided a favorable environment for the development of Hato. The analysis of the barotropic eddy kinetic energy (EKE) and latent heat flux further demonstrated this scenario. The results showed that the regions with a positive EKE tendency and strong latent heat release were consistent with the reach of and shifted westward with Hato. The EKE conversion was enhanced significantly on 23 August, with a maximum intensity observed over the northern South China Sea and southern Guangdong Province. The mean kinetic energy was largely converted to EKE, which, together with the great latent heat release, led to the rapid intensification of Hato.
Sprengvortrieb und Spezialtiefbau in Göteborg
Authors: Baum Nikolas , Boxheimer Sascha , Krause Daniel , Renz Florian , Hoffmann Björn , Wächter Jörg , Klingeberg Thorsten
Published: July 2019

Die wachsende Wirtschaft und die Bevölkerung in der Metropolregion Göteborg machen Infrastrukturmaßnahmen für die zweitgrößte Stadt Schwedens unumgänglich. Als Teilprojekt der westschwedischen Vereinbarung, die u. a. auch den Bau des Marienholmtunnels und den Neubau der Hising Brücke beinhaltet, wird im Zuge der „Westanbindung Göteborg“ (Göteborg Västlänken) eine neue Eisenbahnlinie für Pendler‐ und Regionalzüge erstellt und voraussichtlich im Jahr 2026 in Betrieb gehen. Neben den zwei neuen Stationen Haga und Korsvägen wird die bestehende Station Centralen durch das 8 km lange Infrastrukturprojekt erweitert. Die drei Bahnhöfe befinden sich in Lockergesteinsbereichen, die zum einen aus dem Lera‐Ton und zum anderen aus eiszeitlichen Ablagerungen und Moräne bestehen, während 6 km der Strecke in Tunnellage im Sprengvortrieb im schwedischen Metabasit, Gneis und Pegmatit zu erstellen sind. Auftraggeber ist die schwedische Transportbehörde Trafikverket.

Dieser Bericht fokussiert sich auf die Bauausführung des Loses Korsvägen, welches von der Bietergemeinschaft West Link Contractors (WLC), bestehend aus dem schwedischen Bauunternehmen NCC und der deutschen BAM‐Tochter Wayss & Freytag Ingenieurbau AG, gewonnen wurde. Hierbei wird auch Einblick in die Anwendung der BIM‐Methode sowie weiterer Digitalisierungsansätze zur Prozessoptimierung gewährt.
Observational study of the medical management of patients with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Saratzis A , Jaspers N E M , Gwilym B , Thomas O , Tsui A , Lefroy R , Parks M , Htun V , Mera Z , Thatcher A , Bosanquet D , Forsythe R , Benson R , Dattani N , Dovell G , Lane T , Shalhoub J , Sidloff D , Visseren F L J , Dorresteijn J A N , Richards T ,   Vascular and Endovascular Research Network (VERN) Collaborators
Published: July 2019

Background

Previous research has suggested that patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are not offered adequate risk factor modification, despite their high cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to assess the cardiovascular profiles of patients with PAD and quantify the survival benefits of target-based risk factor modification.

Methods

The Vascular and Endovascular Research Network (VERN) prospectively collected cardiovascular profiles of patients with PAD from ten UK vascular centres (April to June 2018) to assess practice against UK and European goal-directed best medical therapy guidelines. Risk and benefits of risk factor control were estimated using the SMART-REACH model, a validated cardiovascular prediction tool for patients with PAD.

Results

Some 440 patients (mean(s.d.) age 70(11) years, 24·8 per cent women) were included in the study. Mean(s.d.) cholesterol (4·3(1·2) mmol/l) and LDL-cholesterol (2·7(1·1) mmol/l) levels were above recommended targets; 319 patients (72·5 per cent) were hypertensive and 343 (78·0 per cent) were active smokers. Only 11·1 per cent of patients were prescribed high-dose statin therapy and 39·1 per cent an antithrombotic agent. The median calculated risk of a major cardiovascular event over 10 years was 53 (i.q.r. 44–62) per cent. Controlling all modifiable cardiovascular risk factors based on UK and European guidance targets (LDL-cholesterol less than 2 mmol/l, systolic BP under 140 mmHg, smoking cessation, antiplatelet therapy) would lead to an absolute risk reduction of the median 10-year cardiovascular risk by 29 (20–38) per cent with 6·3 (4·0–9·3) cardiovascular disease-free years gained.

Conclusion

The medical management of patients with PAD in this secondary care cohort was suboptimal. Controlling modifiable risk factors to guideline-based targets would confer significant patient benefit.
Screening for gastric cancer using exhaled breath samples
Authors: Broza Y Y , Khatib S , Gharra A , Krilaviciute A , Amal H , Polaka I , Parshutin S , Kikuste I , Gasenko E , Skapars R , Brenner H , Leja M , Haick H
Published: July 2019

Background

The aim was to derive a breath-based classifier for gastric cancer using a nanomaterial-based sensor array, and to validate it in a large screening population.

Methods

A new training algorithm for the diagnosis of gastric cancer was derived from previous breath samples from patients with gastric cancer and healthy controls in a clinical setting, and validated in a blinded manner in a screening population.

Results

The training algorithm was derived using breath samples from 99 patients with gastric cancer and 342 healthy controls, and validated in a population of 726 people. The calculated training set algorithm had 82 per cent sensitivity, 78 per cent specificity and 79 per cent accuracy. The algorithm correctly classified all three patients with gastric cancer and 570 of the 723 cancer-free controls in the screening population, yielding 100 per cent sensitivity, 79 per cent specificity and 79 per cent accuracy. Further analyses of lifestyle and confounding factors were not associated with the classifier.

Conclusion

This first validation of a nanomaterial sensor array-based algorithm for gastric cancer detection from breath samples in a large screening population supports the potential of this technology for the early detection of gastric cancer.
iCURE (iterative course‐based undergraduate research experience): A case‐study
Authors: Stoeckman Angela K. , Cai Yingqi , Chapman Kent D.
Published: July 2019

Several models suggest ways to expose undergraduates at minority serving institutions or institutions with limited research infrastructures to the iterative process of research. Apprentice‐based research experiences allow students to work one‐on‐one with a research mentor in the hands‐on discovery process, but with teaching being a priority for faculty at the aforementioned institutions, financial, spatial, and time limitations for research progress exist. Course‐based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) provide opportunities for a greater number of undergraduates to become familiar with the questions, techniques, and failure involved in research. However, designing projects that a group of students can complete in a semester can be challenging. Inclusive Research Education Communities are intended to promote retention in STEM courses for early college students but have limited benefit for upper‐level courses. We sought to create an iterative CURE between fall semester BIOL3900 at the University of North Texas and spring semester CHE397 at Bethel University (Saint Paul, MN) to promote collaboration between unique learning communities. The research goal was to use a tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) transient expression system as a platform to test gene functions and to engineer valuable bioproducts in plant vegetative tissues. The outcomes of this 2‐year integrative module included novel discoveries leading to publications in peer‐reviewed journals, cost benefits due to shared resources, continual movement of the project, course‐based training for future independent research projects, and improved student attitudes about research. © 2019 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 47(5):565–572, 2019.
Simultaneous determination of plasma nicotine and cotinine by UHPLC–MS/MS in C57BL/6 mice and its application in a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Dongjie , Du Juan , Qin Ying , Zhao Zhigang , Shi Yanjun , Mei Shenghui , Liu Yi
Published: July 2019

Plasma concentrations of nicotine and its active metabolite cotinine are highly correlated with its biological effects. A UHPLC–MS/MS method was developed, validated and applied for nicotine and cotinine analysis in mice plasma. Chromatographic separation was achieved on a BEH HILIC column using acetonitrile (0.1% formic acid) and 10 mm ammonium formate as mobile phase. The gradient elution was performed at 0.4 mL/min with a run time of 3.6 min. The quantitative ion transition was m/z 163.1 > 130.0 for nicotine, m/z 177.1 > 80.0 for cotinine and m/z 167.1 > 134.0 for nicotine‐D4 (internal standard, IS). For both nicotine and cotinine, the calibration range was 5–500 ng/mL with 5 ng/mL as the lower limit of quantitation, and the intra‐ and inter‐day bias and imprecision were −4.61–12.00% and <11.12%. The IS normalized recovery was 90.62–98.95% for nicotine and 89.18–101.53% for cotinine, and the IS normalized matrix factor was 106.00–116.44% for nicotine and 100.34–109.85% for cotinine. Both nicotine and cotinine were stable under conventional storage conditions. The validated method has been applied to a pharmacokinetic study in mice to calculate the pharmacokinetic parameters for both analytes.
A qualitative study of Argentine small and medium enterprises: Factors driving social responsibility
Authors: Massoud Jacob A. , Daily Bonnie F. , Willi Alberto
Published: July 2019

Small and medium‐sized enterprise (SMEs) social responsibility has recently begun to gain greater importance in Argentina due to a variety of contextual factors. The main area of inquiry investigated in this study was the motivation for adopting social responsibility initiatives at Argentine SMEs. Exploratory, qualitative methods were employed to evaluate social responsibility initiatives at six firms across several industries. Semistructured interviews served as the primary source of data. Data were analyzed and interpreted using open coding to develop categories and themes. Results indicate that the chief motivation for SMEs to engage in social responsibility rests primarily in the values of company owners or managers. Additional external factors such as labor demands and the economy also influence a firm's choice of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative. The findings also provide the broader business community with several lessons that could be applied to enhance CSR efforts. Similar to prior research, it was found that both internal and external factors influence the adoption of CSR by SMEs, demonstrating strong support for the roles of an owner's values and the community as key drivers.
Development of assessment indicators for measuring the student learning effects of artificial intelligence‐based robot design
Authors: Shyr Wen‐Jye , Yang Fu‐Chun , Liu Po‐Wen , Hsieh Ying‐Ming , You Ci‐Syong , Chen Dyi‐Cheng
Published: July 2019

This study identified a number of indicators that are essential for measuring the learning effects on students involved in artificial intelligence (AI)‐based robot design. Ten experts were recruited as Delphi group members, including three mechanical engineers in the field of robot design and seven scholars from a university. The data collected from the questionnaires were analyzed using Z values from the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. The questionnaire was used to identify assessment indicators in six dimensions: (a) Remember, (b) understand, (c) apply, (d) analyze, (e) evaluate, and (f) create. Our findings provide a valuable reference for educators in the field of engineering and technology education involved in the development of programs in AI‐based robot design.
Multiobjective virtual machine placement mechanisms using nature‐inspired metaheuristic algorithms in cloud environments: A comprehensive review
Authors: Donyagard Vahed Nasim , Ghobaei‐Arani Mostafa , Souri Alireza
Published: July 2019

Cloud computing introduced a new paradigm in IT industry by providing on‐demand, elastic, ubiquitous computing resources for users. In a virtualized cloud data center, there are a large number of physical machines (PMs) hosting different types of virtual machines (VMs). Unfortunately, the cloud data centers do not fully utilize their computing resources and cause a considerable amount of energy waste that has a great operational cost and dramatic impact on the environment. Server consolidation is one of the techniques that provide efficient use of physical resources by reducing the number of active servers. Since VM placement plays an important role in server consolidation, one of the main challenges in cloud data centers is an efficient mapping of VMs to PMs. Multiobjective VM placement is generating considerable interest among researchers and academia. This paper aims to represent a detailed review of the recent state‐of‐the‐art multiobjective VM placement mechanisms using nature‐inspired metaheuristic algorithms in cloud environments. Also, it gives special attention to the parameters and approaches used for placing VMs into PMs. In the end, we will discuss and explore further works that can be done in this area of research.
Modeling composite effects of marine and freshwater processes on migratory species
Authors: Friedman Whitney R. , Martin Benjamin T. , Wells Brian K. , Warzybok Pete , Michel Cyril J. , Danner Eric M. , Lindley Steven T.
Published: July 2019

Life histories of migratory species such as anadromous fishes make them particularly susceptible to composite effects of processes experienced across distinct habitats and life stages. Therefore, their population dynamics are difficult to quantify and manage without tools such as life‐cycle models. As a model species for which life‐cycle modeling is particularly useful, we provide an analysis of influential processes affecting dynamics of the Central Valley fall‐run Chinook salmon (CVFC) population (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). This analysis demonstrates how, through identification of covariates that affect this population at each life stage and their relationship to one another, it is possible to identify actions that best promote sustainability for this anadromous species. We developed a life‐cycle model for CVFC examining primary processes influencing variability in observed patterns of escapement from 1988 to 2016. CVFC are a valuable fishery along the US West Coast; however, their natural population is a fraction of its historic size, and recent low escapements have resulted in substantial restrictions on the fishery. Our model explains 68.3% of variability in historic escapement values. The most influential processes include temperatures experienced during egg incubation, freshwater flow during juvenile outmigration, and environmentally mediated predation during early marine residence. This work demonstrates the need, and methodology, for considering the interactions between freshwater and marine dynamics when evaluating the efficacy of managerial practices in freshwater and the ocean, especially in the context of increased environmental variability, climate change, and dynamic predator populations. The methodology developed in this study can be used toward improved conservation and management of other anadromous fishes and migratory species.
The effect of burnt rock on inclined shaft in shallow coal seam and its control technology
Authors: Yuan Yong , Liu Zhi‐Heng , Zhu Cheng , Yuan Chao‐Feng , Wang Sheng‐Zhi
Published: July 2019

Burnt rock is a geo‐material widely existed in many countries. After the rock mass is burned, the fracture is developed, the structure is destroyed, the integrity and strength are reduced, and a good water storage space is formed in suitable hydration conditions. In this paper, the roof fall characteristics and failure mechanism of inclined shaft in shallow water‐rich burnt rock area (SWRBRA) are analyzed using theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and field measurement. It is revealed that the main factors causing the instability of surrounding rock on inclined shaft in SWRBRA are the deterioration of structure and integrity after rock mass is burnt, the weakening of surrounding rock strength under the action of fissure water, and the lagging support method. Therefore, the key measure to control the stability of surrounding rock in SWRBRA is to block cracks to eliminate the weakening effect of water and advance reinforcement to improve the surrounding rock strength. Through the comprehensive technologies such as rear roadway reinforcement, filling, and rebuilding artificial false roof and pipe shed advanced support, the effective restoration of the roof fall area in SWRBRA is realized. The surrounding rock fractures were closed, the strength of surrounding rock is improved by means of grouting reinforcement, and the stability control of surrounding rock of inclined shaft in SWRBRA is achieved.
BSSE‐correction scheme for consistent gaussian basis sets of double‐ and triple‐zeta valence with polarization quality for solid‐state calculations
Authors: Vilela Oliveira Daniel , Laun Joachim , Peintinger Michael F. , Bredow Thomas
Published: July 2019

Revised versions of our published pob‐TZVP [Peintinger, M. F.; Oliveira, D. V. and Bredow, T., J. Comput. Chem., 2013, 34 (6), 451–459.] and unpublished pob‐DZVP basis sets, denoted as pob‐TZVP‐rev2 and pob‐DZVP‐rev2, have been derived for the elements HBr. It was observed that the pob basis sets suffer from the basis set superposition error (BSSE). In order to reduce this effect, we took into account the counterpoise energy of hydride dimers as an additional parameter in the basis set optimization. The overall performance, portability, and SCF stability of the resulting rev2 basis sets are significantly improved compared to the original pob basis sets. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The role of circular RNA HECTD1 expression in disease risk, disease severity, inflammation, and recurrence of acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Peng Xiapei , Jing Ping , Chen Juan , Xu Liwen
Published: July 2019

Background

This study aimed to explore the correlation of circular RNA HECT domain E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 (circRNA HECTD1) expression with disease risk, disease severity, inflammation, and recurrence of acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods

A total of 160 initial AIS patients and 160 controls were enrolled in this study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells of AIS patients and controls were separated from blood samples to detect circRNA HECTD1 expression by RT‐qPCR. Inflammatory cytokines in serum of AIS patients were measured by ELISA. Furthermore, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was used to evaluate disease severity of AIS patients. Additionally, disease recurrence was documented during follow‐up, and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) was calculated.

Results

CircRNA HECTD1 expression was higher in AIS patients than that in controls, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve revealed that circRNA HECTD1 expression was of a good value in distinguishing AIS patients from controls with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.814 (95% CI: 0.768‐0.859). In AIS patients, circRNA HECTD1 expression was positively correlated with NIHSS score, CRP, and pro‐inflammatory cytokines. CircRNA HECTD1 expression was increased in AIS recurrence patients compared to non‐recurrence patients, and further, ROC curve analysis disclosed that circRNA HECTD1 expression predicted higher risk of AIS recurrence (AUC: 0.694, 95% CI: 0.586‐0.801). Additionally, circRNA HECTD1 expression was negatively correlated with RFS.

Conclusions

CircRNA HECTD1 expression correlates with higher disease risk, disease severity, inflammation, and recurrence of AIS.
Angiopoietin‐2 provides no incremental predictive value for the presence of obstructive coronary artery disease over N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide
Authors: Jian Wen , Mo Chang‐Hua , Yang Guo‐Liang , Li Lang , Gui Chun
Published: July 2019

Background

Using circulating biomarkers as a noninvasive method to assist the evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD) is beneficial for reducing the unnecessary diagnostic cardiac catheterization. This study aimed to assess the predictive role of angiopoietin‐2 (Ang‐2) for the presence of obstructive coronary stenosis as compared with N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) in patients with symptoms of CAD.

Methods

The study enrolled 222 consecutive symptomatic patients who underwent elective diagnostic cardiac catheterization from July to December 2018. Blood samples were collected in the first morning after admission. The severity of coronary stenosis was assessed by coronary angiography. The obstructive CAD was defined as stenosis ≥50% of the left main coronary artery or stenosis ≥70% of a major epicardial vessel (left anterior descending artery, left circumflex artery and right coronary artery).

Results

Patients with obstructive CAD (n = 120) had significantly higher levels of Ang‐2 and NT‐proBNP compared with those without. In multivariable regression analysis, only NT‐proBNP levels were independently associated with Ang‐2 levels. NT‐proBNP was superior to Ang‐2 as a predictor for the presence of obstructive CAD (NT‐proBNP, area under curve [AUC] = 0.733, vs Ang‐2, AUC = 0.626, P = 0.004). In multiple logistic regression analysis, NT‐proBNP, but not Ang‐2, was the independent predictor of obstructive CAD. The combination of Ang‐2 with NT‐proBNP did not provide the incremental value over NT‐proBNP alone.

Conclusion

Serum Ang‐2 levels are associated with NT‐proBNP levels in patients suspected for CAD. NT‐proBNP is superior to Ang‐2 as a predictor for the presence of obstructive CAD. However, Ang‐2 does not further increase diagnostic accuracy on top of NT‐proBNP.
Baseline training sequence affects speed of emergent conditional discriminations
Authors: Petursdottir Anna Ingeborg , Cox Reagan E. , McKeon Courtney A. , Mellor James R.
Published: July 2019

We examined the effects of baseline training sequence on the emergence of conditional discriminations in an intraverbal naming task. Thirty‐two college students were randomly assigned to two groups. The tact‐intraverbal (TI) group first learned to vocally tact eight visual stimuli using a unique verbal label for each stimulus, and then to intraverbally relate four pairs of verbal labels. The intraverbal‐tact (IT) group received the same training but in the opposite sequence. Both groups then received a match‐to‐sample test involving the visual stimuli alone. On average, the TI group had significantly shorter reaction times than the IT group throughout all four test blocks, even when controlling for intraverbal retention, which was lower in the IT group. Accuracy on the MTS test did not differ significantly between groups when controlling for intraverbal retention. However, MTS accuracy and intraverbal retention were strongly correlated in the IT group but uncorrelated in the TI group. We suggest the effect of training sequence reflects different sources of stimulus control available to subjects in different groups when confronted with the novel MTS trials.
Assessing functions of stimuli associated with rich‐to‐lean transitions using a choice procedure
Authors: Langford Jeremy S. , Pitts Raymond C. , Hughes Christine E.
Published: July 2019

Under fixed‐ratio schedules, transitions from more to less favorable conditions of reinforcement (rich‐to‐lean transitions) usually generate extended pausing. One possible explanation for this effect is that stimuli associated with rich‐to‐lean transitions are aversive and, thus, extended pausing functions as escape. The purpose of this study was to characterize further the aversive function of different transitions, and the stimuli associated with them, by allowing pigeons to choose to complete select ratios in the presence of either a mixed‐schedule stimulus or a transition‐specific multiple‐schedule stimulus. The mixed schedule was preferred during transitions that signaled an upcoming lean reinforcer (rich‐to‐lean and lean‐to‐lean), whereas the multiple schedule was preferred during transitions that signaled an upcoming rich reinforcer (lean‐to‐rich and rich‐to‐rich). These findings support the notion that stimuli associated with rich‐to‐lean (and to some extent lean‐to‐lean) transitions can function aversively; whereas stimuli associated with other transitions (e.g., lean‐to‐rich and rich‐to‐rich) can function as conditioned reinforcers. When the opportunity to choose between schedule‐correlated stimuli was available, however, choice latency was controlled exclusively by the multiple‐schedule stimulus. That is, the opportunity to select the mixed schedule did not attenuate rich‐to‐lean pauses, suggesting that extended pausing may be more than simply escape.
Dissecting the defects in the neonatal CD8+ T-cell response
Authors: Fike Adam J , Kumova Ogan K , Carey Alison J
Published: July 2019

The neonatal period presents a complex scenario where the threshold of reactivity toward colonizing microbiota, maternal antigens, autoantigens, and pathogens must be carefully moderated and balanced. CD8+ T cells are critical for the response against intracellular bacteria and viruses, but this immune compartment maintains altered function relative to adult counterparts because of the unique challenges which infants face. Here, we review our current understanding of the factors which may promote the attenuation and altered function of the neonatal CD8+ T-cell response and potential avenues for future study. Specifically, we have focused on the neonatal CD8+ T-cell ontogeny, memory formation, TCR structure and repertoire, TCR inhibitory receptors, and the clinical implications of altered neonatal CD8+ T-cell function. Special emphasis has been placed on examining the response of preterm neonates relative to term neonates and adults.
Clinical assessment of aortic valve stenosis: Comparison between 4D flow MRI and transthoracic echocardiography
Authors: Adriaans Bouke P. , Westenberg Jos J.M. , van Cauteren Yvonne J.M. , Gerretsen Suzanne , Elbaz Mohammed S.M. , Bekkers Sebastiaan C.A.M. , Veenstra Leo F. , Crijns Harry J.G.M. , Wildberger Joachim E. , Schalla Simon
Published: July 2019

Background

The prevalence of valvular aortic stenosis (AS) increases as the population ages. Echocardiographic measurements of peak jet velocity (Vpeak), mean pressure gradient (Pmean), and aortic valve area (AVA) determine AS severity and play a pivotal role in the stratification towards valvular replacement. A multimodality imaging approach might be needed in cases of uncertainty about the actual severity of the stenosis.

Purpose

To compare four‐dimensional phase‐contrast magnetic resonance (4D PC‐MR), two‐dimensional (2D) PC‐MR, and transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) for quantification of AS.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Twenty patients with various degrees of AS (69.3 ± 5.0 years).

Field Strength/Sequences

4D PC‐MR and 2D PC‐MR at 3T.

Assessment

We compared Vpeak, Pmean, and AVA between TTE, 4D PC‐MR, and 2D PC‐MR. Flow eccentricity was quantified by means of normalized flow displacement, and its influence on the accuracy of TTE measurements was investigated.

Statistical Tests

Pearson's correlation, Bland–Altman analysis, paired t‐test, and intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

4D PC‐MR measured higher Vpeak (r = 0.95, mean difference + 16.4 ± 10.7%, P <0.001), and Pmean (r = 0.92, mean difference + 14.9 ± 16.0%, P = 0.013), but a less critical AVA (r = 0.80, mean difference + 19.9 ± 20.6%, P = 0.002) than TTE. In contrast, unidirectional 2D PC‐MR substantially underestimated AS severity when compared with TTE. Differences in Vpeak between 4D PC‐MR and TTE showed to be strongly correlated with the eccentricity of the flow jet (r = 0.89, P <0.001). Use of 4D PC‐MR improved the concordance between Vpeak and AVA (from 0.68 to 0.87), and between PGmean and AVA (from 0.68 to 0.86).

Data Conclusion

4D PC‐MR improves the concordance between the different AS parameters and could serve as an additional imaging technique next to TTE. Future studies should address the potential value of 4D PC‐MR in patients with discordant echocardiographic parameters.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:472–480.