bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutations in membrane‐fusion subunit of spike glycoprotein play crucial role in the recent outbreak of COVID‐19
Authors: Podder Soumita , Ghosh Avishek , Ghosh Tapash
Published: October 2020

Coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19), the ongoing pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is a major threat to the entire human race. It is reported that SARS‐CoV‐2 seems to have relatively low pathogenicity and higher transmissibility than previously outbroke SARS‐CoV. To explore the reason of the increased transmissibility of SARS‐CoV‐2 compared with SARS‐CoV, we have performed a comparative analysis on the structural proteins (spike, envelope, membrane, and nucleoprotein) of two viruses. Our analysis revealed that extensive substitutions of hydrophobic to polar and charged amino acids in spike glycoproteins of SARS‐CoV2 creates an intrinsically disordered region (IDR) at the beginning of membrane‐fusion subunit and intrinsically disordered residues in fusion peptide. IDR provides a potential site for proteolysis by furin and enriched disordered residues facilitate prompt fusion of the SARS‐CoV2 with host membrane by recruiting molecular recognition features. Here, we have hypothesized that mutation‐driven accumulation of intrinsically disordered residues in spike glycoproteins play dual role in enhancing viral transmissibility than previous SARS‐coronavirus. These analyses may help in epidemic surveillance and preventive measures against COVID‐19.
Impacts of climate change on heating and cooling degree‐hours over China
Authors: Shi Ying , Han Zhenyu , Xu Ying , Xiao Chan
Published: October 2020

Based on hourly temperature data collected from 2,307 meteorological stations over China and two sets of climate change simulations over East Asia using the regional climate model version 4.4 (RegCM4.4) driven by the global models of HadGEM2‐ES and MPI‐ESM‐MR, future changes of heating and cooling degree‐hours (HDH and CDH) at the end of the 21st century under RCP4.5 scenario are investigated. Compared against the observation, the spatial distribution, magnitude and annual cycle of present‐day HDH and CDH at different times, as well as the diurnal cycle of them can be realistically simulated by the model. Meanwhile, some bias can also be found and it varies with the times, especially for CDH. At the end of the century, significant decrease of HDH can be found over the Tibetan Plateau, the northern part of Northeast China, and Northwest China at each times while increase of CDH are observed at all the times except some parts of the Tibetan Plateau where the CDH remains zero due to the cold climate there. But for different times, some differences are found in HDH decrease and CDH increase. For example, the changes of HDH at the fifth to the seventh times present a weaker decrease in the northwestern basins compared to other times and the CDH increase are more significant at the fifth and the sixth times. The regional mean changes of HDH and CDH over China in the 21st century (2006–2098) also diverge among different times, which indicates the degree‐hours is needed to precisely calculate the hourly heating and cooling energy demand and then the heating and cooling degree days.
First‐year complications after immediate breast reconstruction with a biological and a synthetic mesh in the same patient: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Hansson Emma , Edvinsson Ann‐Chatrin , Elander Anna , Kölby Lars , Hallberg Håkan
Published: October 2020

Background

Even though meshes and matrices are widely used in breast reconstruction, there is little high‐quality scientific evidence for their risks and benefits. The aim of this study was to compare first‐year surgical complication rates in implant‐based immediate breast reconstruction with a biological mesh with that of a synthetic mesh, in the same patient.

Methods

This study is a clinical, randomized, prospective trial. Patients operated on with bilateral mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction were randomized to biological mesh on one side and synthetic mesh on the other side.

Results

A total of 48 breasts were randomized. As the synthetically and the biologically reconstructed breasts that were compared belonged to the same woman, systemic factors were exactly the same in the two groups. The most common complication was seroma formation with a frequency of 38% in the biological group and 3.8% in the synthetical group (p = .011). A higher frequency of total implant loss could be seen in the biologic mesh group (8.5% vs. 2%), albeit not statistically significant (p = .083).

Conclusions

In the same patient, a synthetic mesh seems to yield a lower risk for serious complications, such as implant loss, than a biological mesh.
Multidisciplinary approach for repeat musculoskeletal lesion biopsy after nondiagnostic initial sampling: A 10‐year single‐center experience
Authors: Abboud Salim , Kosaraju Vijaya , Bhatt Aashish , Egler Rachel , Elliott Robin , Faraji Navid , Mangla Ankit , Mansur David , Rothermel Luke , Saab Shahrazad , Young Peter , Getty Patrick , Kosmas Christos
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

Success rates for initial image‐guided biopsy of musculoskeletal (MSK) lesions have been well documented; evidence regarding success rates for repeat biopsy following initially nondiagnostic (ND) image‐guided biopsy of MSK lesions is more limited. This study evaluates the outcomes of repeat computerized tomography‐guided MSK biopsies following ND biopsies using a multidisciplinary approach.

Materials and Methods

Electronic medical record search covering a 10‐year period identified patients that received two or more biopsies for an MSK tumor or tumor‐like process. The decision for initial and repeat image‐guided biopsy of each lesion was made following multidisciplinary MSK tumor board review. Lesion location, histopathology results, size of biopsy needle when available, and change in technique between biopsy attempts was documented.

Results

Repeat biopsy rate was 1.6%. 23 patients with repeat MSK biopsy were identified. A total of 17 of 23 (74%) repeat biopsy attempts were diagnostic. A total of 22 of 23 (96%) repeat biopsy attempts were clinically useful. Diagnostic repeat biopsies were described as employing one or more of five technical differences compared to the first biopsy attempt, the most common being improved targeting of the lesion itself.

Conclusions

A multidisciplinary approach may yield improved repeat‐biopsy rates and clinical utility of repeat MSK biopsies compared to prior reports.
Analytical tools for urocanic acid determination in human samples: A review
Authors: Lima Fabiana Vieira , Martins Tércio Elyan Azevedo , Morocho‐Jácome Ana Lucia , Almeida Isabel Filipa , Rosado Catarina Fialho , Velasco Maria Valéria Robles , Baby André Rolim
Published: October 2020

Urocanic acid is a chromophore found in the skin that has been identified as an important immunosuppressant and carcinogenesis mediator through its photoisomerization from trans to cis form induced by ultraviolet radiation. Research on analytical methods that explore urocanic acid isomerization is indispensable to fully understand the deleterious effects mediated by this biomarker. In this context, the current relevant analytical methods for determination of these isomers in human samples are summarized in this review. The methods presented here are applicable to human samples collected by noninvasive methods (or minimally invasive), encompassing an array of analytical techniques, including high‐performance capillary electrophoresis, confocal Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry, among others. Developed high‐performance liquid chromatography methods have proven to be advantageous, allowing noninvasive collections for in vivo analysis and the confocal Raman, specially, for real‐time analysis. Among all these methods, high‐performance liquid chromatography is the most investigated one with mass spectrometry or ultraviolet detector, and the mass spectrometry detector being the most studied in the last years, demonstrating high sensitivity, very low detection limits, and accurate identification, especially for clinical investigations.
Early Treatment Effects of Nonablative Fractional Lasers (NAFL) on Hypertrophic Scars in an Animal Model
Authors: Chung Jae‐Ho , Kim Ki‐Jae , Park Doug John , Ji Yi‐Hwa , Yoon Eul‐Sik , Park Seung‐Ha
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

Recently, there have been several attempts to apply the laser therapy to hypertrophic scars (HTS). In particular, the fractional laser is in the spotlight for its usefulness in rapid wound healing and dermal remodeling. However, most previous studies have focused on the ablative fractional laser (AFL), and there are no studies on the mechanism of the nonablative fractional laser (NAFL) effect in HTS treatment. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the changes in histology and molecular chemistry to provide scientific evidence for the early treatment of HTS with NAFL.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A total of 40 hypertrophic burn scars were made on the abdomens of two female pigs. After epithelialization, the HTS were randomly subdivided into four groups—control, AFL, NAFL (low energy), and NAFL (high energy). Laser treatment was initiated 1 week after the crust fell and the epithelium became covered, and it was repeated for six sessions over an interval of 2 weeks. Five excisional biopsies were obtained for histologic analysis and biomarker assessment.

Results

Histologically, dermal remodeling with thin coil‐shaped collagen fibers was observed in the NAFL groups. It also showed a significant increase of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) and Decorin at 16 weeks in an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis showed a tendency that high‐pulse energy of NAFL led to higher messenger RNA expression than did the low‐energy group.

Conclusion

The NAFL‐treated groups showed characteristic collagen re‐arrangement and a significant increase in MMP‐2 and Decorin. These molecular changes suggest that MMP‐2 and Decorin play a significant role in dermal remodeling. Early NAFL treatment for HTS could be supported with both histological and molecular evidence. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
HOW TO MAKE TOUGH DECISIONS IN THE MOST UNCERTAIN TIMES
Authors: Rakowich Walt
Published: October 2020

This article discusses the author's experience as the former chief executive officer of the global logistics company Prologis and board member for multiple organizations in healthcare, hospitality, and elsewhere. He relates examples about a common leadership dilemma: making tough decisions during uncertain times, especially what organizations now face in dealing with a global pandemic. He asserts that when leaders create a sense of certainty, in themselves and across their organizations, they allay fears and build trust, which is the most important element of leadership. Without trust, there is no platform from which to build positive influence with others. Further, trust blooms when leaders think less about certainty and focus more on three other C‐words: clarity, confidence, and courage. Various examples are given within each of these topics, and each of the C‐words is amplified by sections such as, within clarity: Establish your nonnegotiables; make space; and collaborate with others. Within confidence: Let down your guard; align your leadership team; and out‐prepare your fears. Within courage: Fill your unknown bucket with faith; look outside your interests; and stay flexible enough to course correct. Clarity, confidence, and courage are intertwined and work together to support leaders when decisions are soaked in ambiguity.
Smart Titanium Coating Composed of Antibiotic Conjugated Peptides as an Infection‐Responsive Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Zhang Yunfei , Hu Kuan , Xing Xuan , Zhang Jingshuang , Zhang Ming‐Rong , Ma Xiaohui , Shi Rui , Zhang Liqun
Published: October 2020

Antibacterial coating is rapidly emerging as a pivotal strategy for mitigating spread of bacterial pathogens. However, many challenges still need to be overcome in order to develop a smart coating that can achieve on‐demand antibacterial effects. In this study, a Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) sensitive peptide sequence is designed, and an antibiotic is then conjugated with this tailor‐made peptide. The antibiotic‐peptide conjugate is then linked to the surface of a titanium implant, where the peptide can be recognized and cleaved by an enzyme secreted by S. aureus. This allows for the release of antibiotics in the presence of S. aureus, thus achieving delivery of an antibacterial specifically when an infection occurs.
An Experimental and Computational Approach on Controlled Radical Photopolymerization of Limonene
Authors: da Silva Ramon Victor de Castro Alvarelli , Vieira Roniérik Pioli
Published: October 2020

Limonene is a potential candidate for the synthesis of polymers from renewable and non‐toxic sources. The synthesis of poly(limonene) via controlled photopolymerization is studied for the first time, both at an experimental and computational level. A kinetic modeling is developed and all unknown parameters are estimated by adjusting them to the experimental data (conversion, molar mass, and dispersity). The reasonable model fit indicates that the proposed mechanism can be considered valid for this process simulation. In that fashion, different reagent ratios are evaluated, as well as simulations for long polymerization times. The experiments provide less than 10% monomer conversion at 40 °C, and short times. However, it is possible to identify a reasonable polymerization control (dispersities <1.5). In a complementary way, the simulations allowed to identify a threshold of reagent ratios in order to maintain the polymerization control for conversions around 20%, and at the same time enable monomer conversions at the same level as traditional thermally‐initiated radical polymerizations at high temperatures. Therefore, this new route can be a promising alternative for the synthesis of limonene‐based polymers.
A One‐Pot Strategy to Synthesize Block Copolyesters from Monomer Mixtures Using a Hydroxy‐Functionized Ionic Liquid
Authors: Song Pengfei , Chen Yalun , Li Yongli , Ma Juping , Wang Liyan , Wang Rongmin
Published: October 2020

One‐pot transformation of monomer mixtures into block copolymers remains a key challenge. Herein, a metal‐free route to prepare block copolymers from monomer mixtures by a hydroxyl functionalized ionic liquid of 3‐(2‐hydroxyl‐ethyl)‐1‐methylimidazolium bromide (HEMIMB) is described. HEMIMB can bridge two catalytic cycles including ring‐opening alternating copolymerization (ROAC) of phthalic anhydride (PA) with epoxides and ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) of L‐lactide (LA), and enable a selective copolymerization from PA, LA, and epoxides. The selective copolymerization depends on the presence of PA in mixed feedstocks, exhibits the first ROAC of PA with epoxides and then ROP of LA to the formation of block polyesters in one‐pot strategy. This work is beneficial to the development of metal‐free catalysts for sequence‐controlled polymerization that enable block architectures from mixtures of monomers.
Influence of Charge Regulation and Charge Heterogeneity on Complexation between Weak Polyelectrolytes and Weak Proteins Near Isoelectric Point
Authors: Samanta Rituparna , Ganesan Venkat
Published: October 2020

A combination of constant pH method and single chain in mean field simulations is employed to probe the influence of charge regulation and charge heterogeneities on the bridging characteristics of dissociable polyelectrolytes on globular proteins. By adopting a coarse‐grained representation of proteins as spherical particles, the influence of charge patches on the polyelectrolyte bridging probabilities near protein isoelectric points and in regimes in which the net charge of the protein is the same sign as that of the polyelectrolytes is probed. The results demonstrate that in the presence of dissociable polyelectrolytes, the probability of bridging of proteins capable of charge regulation is higher relative to proteins which are completely dissociated. For homogeneously charged proteins and/or proteins with weak charge heterogeneities, partially dissociated polyelectrolytes are seen to exhibit enhanced bridging characteristics compared to completely dissociated polyelectrolytes. In contrast, for proteins exhibiting strong charge heterogeneities, dissociable polyelectrolytes are seen to exhibit weaker bridging compared to completely dissociated polyelectrolytes.
Bacterial‐like nitric oxide synthase in the haloalkaliphilic archaeon Natronomonas pharaonis
Authors: Orsini Silvia S. , James Kimberly L. , Reyes Destiny J. , Couto‐Rodriguez Ricardo L. , Gulko Miriam K. , Witte Angela , Carroll Ronan K. , Rice Kelly C.
Published: October 2020

Bacterial nitric oxide (NO) synthases (bNOS) play diverse and important roles in microbial physiology, stress resistance, and virulence. Although bacterial and mammalian NOS enzymes have been well‐characterized, comparatively little is known about the prevalence and function of NOS enzymes in Archaea. Analysis of archaeal genomes revealed that highly conserved bNOS homologs were restricted to members of the Halobacteria. Of these, Natronomonas pharaonis NOS (npNOS) was chosen for further characterization. NO production was confirmed in heterologously expressed His‐tagged npNOS by coupling nitrite production from N‐hydroxy‐L‐arginine in an H2O2‐supported reaction. Additionally, the nos gene was successfully targeted and disrupted to create a Nmn. pharaonis nos mutant by adapting an established Natrialba magadii transformation protocol. Genome re‐sequencing of this mutant revealed an additional frameshift in a putative cation–acetate symporter gene, which could contribute to altered acetate metabolism in the nos mutant. Inactivation of Nmn. pharaonis nos was also associated with several phenotypes congruent with bacterial nos mutants (altered growth, increased oxygen consumption, increased pigment, increased UV susceptibility), suggesting that NOS function may be conserved between bacteria and archaea. These studies are the first to describe genetic inactivation and characterization of a Nmn. pharaonis gene and provides enhanced tools for probing its physiology.
Diagnostic potential of circulating cell‐free nuclear and mitochondrial DNA for several cancer types and nonmalignant diseases: A study on suspected cancer patients
Authors: Sundquist Kristina , Sundquist Jan , Hedelius Anna , Memon Ashfaque A.
Published: October 2020

Circulating cell‐free nuclear DNA (nDNA) has been implicated in individual cancer types with a diagnostic value; however, the role of cell‐free mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in cancers is controversial. We aimed to investigate and compare the diagnostic potential of both nDNA and mtDNA for multiple cancers and to investigate their ability to distinguish multiple cancers from healthy controls and from nonmalignant diseases. We also investigated the prognostic value of both nDNA and mtDNA. The absolute copy number of circulating DNAs in suspected cancer patients (n = 286) referred to a cancer diagnostic center and healthy controls (n = 109) was quantified by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction. Among the suspected cancer patients, 66 (23%) were diagnosed with various cancers, 193 (67%) with nonmalignant diseases, and 27 (10%) with no active disease. Levels of nDNA were significantly higher in cancers (copies/μl; mean ± SD, 21.0 ± 14.2) as compared with nonmalignant diseases (15.2 ± 10.0) and controls (9.3 ± 4.1). In contrast, levels of mtDNA were significantly lower in cancers (copies/μl; mean ± SD, 68,557 ± 66,663) and nonmalignant diseases (60,174 ± 55,831) as compared with controls (98,714 ± 77,789). Receiver operating curve analysis showed that nDNA not only could distinguish multiple cancers from controls (area under curve [AUC] = 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.70–0.86) but also from nonmalignant diseases (AUC = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.59–0.76). However, mtDNA could only differentiate cancers from controls (AUC = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.56–0.73). Higher levels of nDNA were also associated with increased mortality in the cancer patients (hazard ratio = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.1–4.7). Circulating cell‐free nDNA, but not the mtDNA, could distinguish multiple cancers from nonmalignant diseases and was associated with poor survival of cancer patients.
Internationalization and product innovation in ASEAN: The moderating role of organizational innovation
Authors: Nguyen‐Van Dung , Chang Chia‐Hua
Published: October 2020

This study investigates whether an internationalization strategy affects product innovation in ASEAN. In addition, we examine whether organizational innovation moderates the internationalization's effects on product innovation in Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN). The empirical analysis is performed using data from the World Bank's Enterprise Surveys and different novel ordinal regression models as well as the propensity score matching (PSM) technique to partially address the endogeneity concern. The results indicate a positive direct effect on product innovation by two modes of internationalization that we analyze (intermediate input imports and exports) and as well by organizational innovation. Furthermore, organizational innovation moderates the internationalization–innovation relationship positively.
The parent–subsidiary knowledge transfer efficiency of Chinese–African multinational enterprises based on a metafrontier epsilon‐based measure model
Authors: Jin Shui‐ying , Zhou Xiao‐lin , Chiu Yung‐ho
Published: October 2020

To investigate knowledge transfer efficiency, this study applies a metafrontier epsilon‐based measure (EBM) model to survey data for 102 Chinese and African multinational enterprises (C–A MNEs). The results are as follows. (1) Only 14 of the 102 C–A MNEs have an efficiency score of 1. (2) The scores for different indicators of the same enterprise vary significantly. (3) Technical support input is inefficient, with all major industries showing obvious disadvantages. (4) Team performance efficiency scores significantly lag behind the other output variables' efficiency scores, presenting significant room for improvement. (5) There are differences in the efficiency of knowledge transfer among different industries.
Stabilized node‐based smoothed radial point interpolation method for micromechanical analysis of the magneto‐electro‐elastic structures in thermal environment
Authors: Ren Shuhui , Na Chengwei , Meng Guangwei , Nie Bin , Zhou Liming
Published: October 2020

In this paper, the stabilized node‐based smoothed radial point interpolation method (SNS‐RPIM) is combined with asymptotic homogenization method (AHM) to investigate the static and transient responses of magneto‐electro‐elastic (MEE) structures in thermal environment. Stabilization terms are applied to construct a “close‐to‐exact” stiffness for the model; the temporal instability is also cured. To study the microscopic multi‐physics coupling problems more accurately, the effective material parameters related to the volume fraction of fiber are obtained based on AHM. Through numerical calculation, it is confirmed that SNS‐RPIM could simulate the responses of MEE structures well when combined with AHM. Therefore, the combination of SNS‐RPIM and AHM has great potential in studying nanostructures including nanobeams, nanoplates, and nanotubes.
Thermal–hydraulic performance of hybrid nano‐additives containing multiwall carbon nanotube‐Al2O3 inside a parabolic through solar collector with turbulators
Authors: Mahani Roohollah Babaei , Hussein Ahmed Kadhim , Talebizadehsardari Pouyan
Published: October 2020

This article investigates thermal–hydraulic performances of turbulent hybrid nanofluid heat transfer in a parabolic through solar collector equipped with turbulators. The goal of this work is to achieve the maximum performance evaluation criteria (PEC). Water–multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT)‐Al2O3 (80%:20%) Newtonian hybrid nanofluid and (SST) k – ω turbulence model have been employed. For model θ = 180°, the maximum of Nuave are gained for all of Re, which is followed with models θ = 90° and θ = 0°. For model HO = 15 mm, the maximum of Nuave is achieved for all Reynolds numbers, which is followed with models HO = 10 mm and HO = 5 mm. The model with HO = 5 mm has no maximum of Nuave, but it has lower pressure drop than model HO = 15 mm. Also, it is found that for model BO = 1000 mm, the maximum values of Nuave are achieved for all Re, which is followed with BO = 800 mm and smooth channel. Furthermore, for model δ = 60°, the maximum values of Nuave are achieved during all studied range of Re, which is followed with δ = 40° and δ = 20°, and for model δ = 40°, the maximum values of PEC are gained for all Re, which is followed with model smooth channel and δ = 20° and δ = 60°. The parabolic through solar collector model with θ = 180°, HO = 15, BO = 1000 mm, δ = 40°, and bO = 20 mm is suggested as the best model.
Numerical investigation of Ag‐CuO/water hybrid nanofluid flow past a moving oscillating cylinder with heat transfer
Authors: Rajesh Vemula , Chamkha Ali , Kavitha M.
Published: October 2020

The prime intention of this manuscript is to explore numerically the heat transfer and flow features of two distinct fluids, to be precise hybrid nanofluid (Ag‐CuO/water) and nanofluid (CuO/water) over a moving oscillating cylinder. The leading equations which control the flow are worked out via a robust Crank–Nicolson technique. The impacts of crucial physical parameters on the velocity and temperature profiles accompanied by skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number have been graphically investigated. The current study explored that by selecting Ag‐CuO/water (hybrid nanofluid) as an operational fluid, superior heat transfer rate and reduced skin friction coefficient can be attained than CuO/water (nanofluid). Skin friction coefficient and the rate of heat transfer through Ag‐CuO/water can be enhanced by increasing Grashof number (Gr). However, skin friction coefficient weakens and Nusselt number augments by increasing nanoparticle volume fraction δ2. Rate of heat transfer can be reduced and skin friction coefficient can be increased by rising phase angle ωt.
Impact of local elasticity and inner rotating circular cylinder on the magneto‐hydrodynamics forced convection and entropy generation of nanofluid in a U‐shaped vented cavity
Authors: Selimefendigil Fatih , Öztop Hakan F. , Sheikholeslami Mohsen
Published: October 2020

This study analyzes the effects of a partial elastic wall and rotating circular cylinder on the convective heat transfer of carbon nanotube (CNT)–water nanofluid filled U‐shaped cavity with entropy generation by considering inclined magnetic field effects. Numerical simulation is performed by using ALE with finite element method (FEM). Impacts of various important parameters such as Re number, Ha number, magnetic field orientation, elastic wall size and modulus, angular velocity, and horizontal position of the rotating cylinder on the forced convection are analyzed. When the values of Re number, strength of magnetic field (up to Ha number of 50), and orientation angle are increased, the average Nu value rises while the impact is opposite for higher elastic wall size and horizontal position of the cylinder above 0.4H. When the rotational cylinder effects are considered, enhancement up to 60% is obtained at the highest speed as compared to motionless cylinder case. The average Nu variation is in the range of 9%–10.45% at the highest value when varying the size and modulus of the elastic wall. Flexible wall effects on the average Nu number variation becomes more pronounced when the angular rotational velocity is highest at the clockwise rotation and for the highest Re number. The average Nu number enhancements are 13%–14% at the highest Ha number. The entropy generation rates with varying Ha number, rotational velocity, and location of the cylinder are different for the left and right parts of the domains while impacts of elastic wall properties on the entropy generation rate are slight.
Well‐posedness and stability for a Petrovsky equation with properties of nonlinear localized for strong damping
Authors: Mohamed Braiki Hocine , Abdelli Mama , Mansouri Sabeur , Zennir Khaled
Published: October 2020

In this article, we consider a nonlinear damped Petrovsky equation in bounded domain. The nonlinear damping is effective only in a neighborhood of a suitable subset of the boundary. The well‐posedness and regularity of solution is discussed owing to the nonlinear semigroup theory together with the Faedo–Galerkin approach. By energy method combined with the piecewise multiplied method and relying on the localized smoothing property, we show the exponential and polynomial stabilities by discussing with respect to the parameter p.
Treatment decision‐making among men with lower urinary tract symptoms: A qualitative study of men's experiences with recommendations for patient‐centred practice
Authors: Selman Lucy E. , Clement Clare , Ochieng Cynthia A. , Lewis Amanda L. , Chapple Christopher , Abrams Paul , Drake Marcus J. , Horwood Jeremy
Published: October 2020

Aims

To inform and guide patient‐centred care for men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), by providing in‐depth qualitative evidence regarding men's perspectives on treatment decision‐making for LUTS.

Methods

An interview study of men recruited from 26 English urology departments. Purposive sampling captured surgical/nonsurgical treatment decisions, and diversity in demographics and symptom burden, in men who had urodynamics and those who did not. After diagnostic assessments, men were interviewed either pre‐treatment or after LUTS surgery. Thematic analysis was conducted. Participants’ descriptions of how LUTS treatment decisions were made were categorised as patient‐led, doctor‐led, or shared.

Results

A total of 41 men participated (25 pre‐treatment, 16 post‐surgery), ages 52–89. Twenty out of 41 described the treatment decision as shared with their consultant, 14 as doctor‐led, and seven as patient‐led. There was no obvious association between treatment decision‐making style and patients’ satisfaction with either clinicians’ role in their decision or their treatment decision. Incomplete or rushed discussions and misperceptions of LUTS and its treatment were reported, indicating a risk of suboptimal decision‐making support by clinicians. As well as clinician opinion, men's treatment decision‐making was influenced by the results of urological assessments, comparing current symptoms with possible side‐effects of surgery, and others’ experiences and opinions.

Conclusions

Men with LUTS report and prefer different kinds of decision‐making support from their clinicians, who must tailor their input to patients’ preferences and needs. Patients’ treatment decision‐making involves multiple factors and can be challenging, and areas of inadequate clinician support were identified. Recommendations for patient‐centred consultations about LUTS treatment are presented.
NURBS in isogeometric discretization methods: A spectral analysis
Authors: Garoni Carlo , Manni Carla , Serra‐Capizzano Stefano , Speleers Hendrik
Published: October 2020

Nonuniform rational B‐splines (NURBS) are the most common representation form in isogeometric analysis. In this article, we study the spectral behavior of discretization matrices arising from isogeometric Galerkin and collocation methods based on d‐variate NURBS of degrees (p1,…,pd), and applied to general second‐order partial differential equations defined on a d‐dimensional domain. The spectrum of these matrices can be compactly and accurately described by means of a so‐called symbol. We compute this symbol and show that it is the same as in the case of isogeometric discretization matrices based on d‐variate polynomial B‐splines of degrees (p1,…,pd). The theoretical results are confirmed with a selection of numerical examples.
Implement co‐curricular assessments to gauge, boost student success
Authors: Jurkowski Odin
Published: October 2020

Everyone in academe understands the importance of assessment for continuous improvement. Faculty are especially well versed in developing and implementing formative and summative assessments for their individual courses and collaboratively for an entire degree program. The data from these assessments can then be utilized for improvement of courses, programs, colleges, and the entire institution. However, offices outside of academic programs, such as Career Services or the Registrar's Office, for example, have not typically had the same focus nor accreditation requirements. While staff in these offices may collect data, it usually is not as structured as the assessment for academic programs, nor do they typically consider the same connection to student learning or outcomes. But with a recent push from regional accrediting bodies, this is changing.
Connect with prospective students through candid, compassionate communications
Authors: Pavlik Amelia
Published: October 2020

“How would I want my kid to be treated by his university if he was an incoming freshman?” That was the question running through Katharine Johnson Suski's mind as she wrote a letter to incoming first‐year students as COVID‐19 began to impact the United States. “I wrote the letter just a couple of days into remote work for our office, when everything felt uncertain and scary,” said Suski, Executive Director of Admissions at Iowa State University. “My son had just returned from picking up his stuff from his residence hall at the University of Kansas and had put his name sign on his bedroom door, which I found extremely sad.”
On the absolute stable difference scheme for the space‐wise dependent source identification problem for elliptic‐telegraph equation
Authors: Ashyralyev Allaberen , Al‐Hammouri Ahmad , Ashyralyyev Charyyar
Published: October 2020

The present paper is devoted to study the first order of accuracy absolute stable difference scheme for the approximate solution of the space identification problem for the elliptic‐telegraph equation in Hilbert spaces with the self‐adjoint positive definite operator. The main theorem on the stability of the difference scheme is established. In applications, theorems on the stability of difference schemes for two types of the space identification problems for multidimensional elliptic‐telegraph partial differential equations are proved. Numerical analysis is provided.
Synthesis of novel phosphonium bromide‐montmorillonite nanocompound and its performance in flame retardancy and dielectric properties of epoxy resins
Authors: Qin Jianyu , Zhang Wenchao , Yang Rongjie
Published: October 2020

To enhance the flame retardancy of 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) on epoxy resins (EPs), by addition reaction with allyltriphenylphosphonium bromide (ATPB), a novel DOPO‐containing phosphonium bromide (DOPO‐ATPB) was synthesized and its structure was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). By intercalating DOPO‐ATPB into montmorillonite (MMT) layers and with the help of solvents, the intercalated nanocompound (DPAB‐MMT) was prepared, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed a d‐spacing expansion of DPAB‐MMT layers (from ~1.01 to ~2.10 nm). The epoxy composites with DOPO‐ATPB and DPAB‐MMT were prepared, and their effects on the flame retardancy, mechanical and dielectric properties were studied by limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL‐94 vertical burning test, cone calorimetry, three‐point bend testing, and the impedance analyzer. The results show that DOPO‐ATPB endows EPs with excellent flame retardancy and dielectric properties, and DPAB‐MMT can be well dispersed in EPs. Compared with pure EP, the EP/8 wt% DOPO‐ATPB increased the LOI values from 23.0% to 32.5%, achieved V‐0 rating and decreased the peak heat release rate (p‐HRR) by approximately 36.6%. With the 8 wt% DPAB‐MMT, the LOI values of epoxy composite was increased from 23.0% to 35.9%, the p‐HRR was decreased by ~25.4%, the mechanical flexural strength was enhanced by approximately 13.4% and the dielectric loss (ε″) was decreased from 0.080 to 0.052 at 100 Hz.
Active layer thickening and controls on interannual variability in the Nordic Arctic compared to the circum‐Arctic
Authors: Strand Sarah M. , Christiansen Hanne H. , Johansson Margareta , Åkerman Jonas , Humlum Ole
Published: October 2020

Active layer probing in northern Sweden, northeast Greenland, and central Svalbard indicates active layer thickening has occurred at Circumpolar Active Layer Monitoring (CALM) sites with long‐term, continuous observations, since the sites were established at these locations in 1978, 1996, and 2000, respectively. The study areas exhibit a reverse latitudinal gradient in average active layer thickness (ALT), which is explained by site geomorphology and climate. Specifically, Svalbard has a more maritime climate and thus the thickest active layer of the study areas (average ALT = 99 cm, 2000–2018). The active layer is thinnest at the northern Sweden sites because it is primarily confined to superficial peat. Interannual variability in ALT is not synchronous across this Nordic Arctic region, but study sites in the same area respond similarly to local meteorology. ALT correlates positively with thawing degree days in Sweden and Greenland, as has been observed in other Arctic regions. However, ALT in Svalbard correlates with freezing degree days, where the maritime Arctic climate results in relatively high and variable winter air temperatures. The difference in annual ALT at adjacent sites is attributed to differences in snow cover and geomorphology. From 2000 to 2018, the average rate of active layer thickening at the Nordic Arctic CALM probing sites was 0.5 cm/yr. The average rate was 1 cm/yr for Nordic Arctic CALM database sites with significant trends, which includes a borehole in addition to probing sites. This range is in line with the circum‐Arctic average of 0.8 cm/yr from 2000 to 2018.
Unilateral neonatal pulmonary interstitial emphysema managed conservatively: A case report
Authors: Al‐Mudares Faeq , Fernandes Caraciolo J.
Published: October 2020

Background

Pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) is a pathological state when air escapes from ruptured alveoli and is trapped along the sheaths surrounding the bronchovascular bundle. PIE is not uncommon in infants who require mechanical ventilation and even less common in infants on noninvasive ventilatory support; however, it is extremely unusual in infants in room air.

Case Presentation

A 2‐week‐old male infant developed worsening tachypnea in the special‐care nursery. The patient was born at 33 weeks' gestation by induced vaginal delivery due to pre‐eclampsia. He required positive pressure ventilation at birth and was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit on nasal continuous positive airway pressure. On the second day of life, exogenous surfactant was administered via endotracheal tube due to increased oxygen requirement, and, soon after, he was weaned off all respiratory support. After 10 days of stability, he developed tachypnea with diminished air entry on the left side of the chest. Chest radiograph and chest computerized tomography confirmed left‐sided unilateral PIE. The patient was treated conservatively with positional therapy alone. Significant clinical and radiographic improvement was noticed within 4 days; almost complete resolution by 10 days and the infant was discharged 23 days later. At follow‐up at 7 months, the infant was found to be symptom‐free with a normal chest radiograph.

Conclusions

Traditional management of unilateral PIE generally involves a combination of invasive ventilatory support and positional therapy to break the vicious cycle pathophysiology of PIE. This report focuses on the insidious progression of PIE in nonventilated neonates and describes a nontraditional conservative management strategy for the management of unilateral PIE.
Thermal Hazards for Autocatalysis and Stability in CSTR: Decomposition of Solution from Nitrolysis of Hexamethylenetetramine
Authors: Xie Qiang , Zhang Luyao , Yu Xianhan , Liu Wei , Jiang Fei , He Jie , Zhang Yaoxuan , Chen Houhe
Published: October 2020

Nitrolysis solution is a kind of spent acid, obtained after the nitration and ripening of hexamethylenetetramine (HA). Its decomposition is generally spontaneous and hazardous. Therefore, the thermal hazards of a real nitrolysis solution were studied here. The prepared nitrolysis solution was analysed by isoperibolic experiments, differential thermal analysis (DTA), accelerating rate calorimetry (ARC), and a bursting point test. We employed non‐linear regression and ordinary differential equation (ODE) fitting methods to obtain kinetic parameters, such as 120.73 kJ mol−1 of the activation energy (E), 36.388 s−1 of the natural logarithm of the pre‐exponential factor (lnA), 1.155 of the reaction order, and 0.6615 of the catalytic index. Based on these kinetic parameters, thermal safety parameters were obtained to evaluate the hazards of a real nitrolysis solution from four aspects: severity, thermal stability, process hazards, and thermal sensitivity. The results indicate critical severity, high process hazards and thermal sensitivity, and very low thermal stability. The hazards due to real nitrolysis solution are higher than those of nitric ester explosives and azos. Further, the value of the initial mass ratio between the concentrated nitric acid and HA could severely pose safety risks during the nitration process. Additionally, the sensitivity analyses of the four process parameters (space‐time of CSTR, τCSTR; feeding temperature, T0; ambient temperature, Ta; specific cooling capacity, hS/V) were performed under the critical conditions for thermal stability in a continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The suited margin of Ta could be 333.15–342.81 K with other determined process parameters.
Microtiter plate test using liquid medium is an alternative method for monitoring metyltetraprole sensitivity in Cercospora beticola
Authors: Matsuzaki Yuichi , Uda Yukie , Kurahashi Makoto , Iwahashi Fukumatsu
Published: October 2020

BACKGROUND

Metyltetraprole is a new quinone outside inhibitor (QoI) fungicide showing potent activity against QoI‐resistant fungi that possess the G143A cytochrome b mutation, which confers resistance to existing QoIs such as trifloxystrobin. For its sustainable use, monitoring of metyltetraprole sensitivity is necessary and the establishment of appropriate methodology is important in each pathogen species.

RESULTS

In Cercospora beticola, the causal agent of sugar beet leaf spot, some isolates were less sensitive to metyltetraprole (EC50 > 1 mg L–1, higher than the saturated concentration) using the common agar plate method, even with 100 mg L−1 salicylhydroxamic acid, an alternative oxidase inhibitor. However, microtiter tests (EC50 < 0.01 mg L−1), conidial germination tests (EC50 < 0.01 mg L−1) and in planta tests (>80% control at 75 mg L−1 run‐off spraying) confirmed that all tested isolates were highly sensitive to metyltetraprole. For trifloxystrobin, G143A mutants were clearly resistant upon microtiter plate tests (median EC50 > 2 mg L−1) and distinct from wild‐type isolates (median EC50 < 0.01 mg L−1). Notably, mycelium fragments were usable for the microtiter plate tests and the test was applicable for isolates that do not form sufficient conidia. Our monitoring study by microtiter plate tests did not indicate the presence of metyltetraprole‐resistant C. beticola isolates in populations in Hokkaido, Japan.

CONCLUSION

The microtiter tests were revealed to be useful for monitoring the sensitivity of C. beticola to metyltetraprole and trifloxystrobin. © 2020 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Challenges in the interpretation of anticoagulant rodenticide residues and toxicity in predatory and scavenging birds
Authors: Rattner Barnett A , Harvey Joel J
Published: October 2020

Anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) are part of the near billion‐dollar rodenticide industry. Numerous studies have documented the presence of ARs in nontarget wildlife, with evidence of repeated exposure to second‐generation ARs. While birds are generally less sensitive to ARs than target rodent species, in some locations predatory and scavenging birds are exposed by consumption of such poisoned prey and, depending on dose and frequency of exposure, exhibit effects of intoxication that can result in death. Evidence of hemorrhage in conjunction with summed hepatic AR residues >0.1–0.2 mg kg−1 liver wet weight are often used as criteria to diagnose ARs as the likely cause of death. In this review focusing on birds of prey and scavengers, we discuss AR potency, coagulopathy, toxicokinetics and long‐lasting effects of residues, and the role of nutrition and vitamin K status on toxicity, and identify some research needs. A more complete understanding of the factors affecting AR toxicity in nontarget wildlife could enable regulators and natural resource managers to better predict and even mitigate risk. Published 2020. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA
Biological and therapeutic activities of thymoquinone: Focus on the Nrf2 signaling pathway
Authors: Talebi Marjan , Talebi Mohsen , Farkhondeh Tahereh , Samarghandian Saeed
Published: October 2020

Thymoquinone is a monoterpenoid compound, which is derived from volatile and fixed oil of Nigella sativa (Ranunculaceae). This phytochemical compound has several biological effects, including antioxidant, antibacterial, antineoplastic, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, neuroprotective, anti‐nociceptive, and anti‐inflammatory activities. Thymoquinone shows pharmacological activities, including anti‐hepatocellular carcinoma, nephroprotection, neuroprotection, retina protection, gastroprotection, cardioprotection, anti‐allergy, reproductive system protection, bladder protection, and respiratory protection. It was found that these beneficial effects are mostly related to modulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway by blockage of Keap1, stimulating the expression of the Nrf2 gene, and inducing the nuclear translocation of Nrf2. In the present review, the therapeutic effects of thymoquinone are overviewed through the Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Improving Shewhart control chart performance for monitoring the Weibull mean
Authors: Ho Linda Lee , Fernandes Fidel Henrique , Quinino Roberto C. , Bourguignon Marcelo
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we are interested in monitoring the stability of a Weibull process mean. We introduce a simplified variable sample size (SVSS) procedure, which consists of using alternately sample sizes and with , to improve the performance of the traditional control chart (a fixed sample size n). Operationally, the proposal is relatively simple and its adoption yields a faster signal of an abnormal situation compared with the traditional chart in a variety of shifts. We present instructions for practitioners on how to design a control chart using the SVSS procedure. We also illustrate the proposed scheme through a numerical example.