bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MATEMÁTICA FINANCEIRA E A TRANSCRIÇÃO PARA A LINGUAGEM MIDIÁTICA: ANÁLISE E CONTRIBUIÇÃO DO USO DO SOFTWARE CALC PARA O ENSINO MÉDIO / FINANCIAL MATHEMATICS AND THE TRANSCRIPTION FOR THE MIDIATIC LANGUAGE: ANALYSIS AND CONTRIBUTION OF THE CALC SOFTWARE USE FOR THE HIGH SCHOOL
Authors: Teixeira Claudia Francisco Pelati , Coelho Neto Joao
Published: May 2019

Ensinar conteúdos com o auxílio das tecnologias digitais requer práticas pedagógicas que venham a contribuir com as atividades habituais diárias do aluno. Desse modo, o objetivo geral é analisar a percepção dos alunos ao utilizarem o ensino da Matemática Financeira, conteúdos de Juros Simples e Composto, por meio do software Calc. Utilizou-se como abordagem metodológica, a pesquisa qualitativa  e as análises foram por meio da Análise Textual Discursiva. Os resultados apresentaram que a promoção da inserção das tecnologias, em especial às planilhas eletrônicas contribui com o acesso universal à Educação e a melhoria da qualidade do ensino e da aprendizagem. Essa contribuição abre novas áreas de conhecimento para os alunos e para o sistema educacional, assim, a busca  é pela contribuição do uso adequado dos recursos no apoio ao processo de ensino e da aprendizagem de modo a atender às necessidades educacionais atuais.
Evaluation of the Genetic Diversity of African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hoechst. ex. A Rich.) Harms.) Using Seed Protein Marker
Authors: Usoroh Josephine Imeh , Eneobong Effiom E. , Abraham Solomon Okon , Umoyen Anthony John
Published: May 2019

Aims: The present research seeks to assess the genetic diversity of African yam bean accessions in Nigeria using seed protein marker; geared towards its genetic improvement and conservation. Introduction: African yam bean is an “Orphan Crop” highly nutritious and has been listed to be among the underutilized legumes despite its immense nutritional advantages in human diets. African yam bean has been reported as a good source of essential amino acids including cysteine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine and Proline.

Study Design: Fifteen (15) accessions of African yam bean were collected from the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan and 25 local accessions were collected from different parts of Nigeria including Enugu.

Results: This study evaluated the genetic diversity on forty (40) accessions of African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) obtained from IITA germplasm bank and other parts of Nigeria. In this study, the genetic differences among the accessions were detected by the presence or absence of bands, which could be used as a basis for variation among accessions. The results from this present study revealed high polymorphism (≈93%), indicating high intra-specific genetic variation with potential linkage to traits desired by breeders.

Conclusion: The study demonstrated that seed storage protein using SDS-PAGE is an important tool for genetic diversity study in African yam bean, providing baseline information. This baseline information will be useful in further molecular studies geared toward efficient breeding and conservation strategies for this crop.
An Overview of Upcountry Cut Flower Industry, Sri Lanka
Authors: Rathnayake Sanduni , Rathnayake Shamila
Published: May 2019

Floricultural products exports bring a considerable amount of income to Sri Lankan economy and there is a huge development potential. Upcountry is a main cut flower production area in the country. This study’s focus is to identify the general information on cut flower production, marketing, problems and suggestions for the improvement. This is a descriptive study where field survey was conducted in three districts in Sri Lanka. Primary data were collected through face to face and telephonic interviews with 58 flower growers by using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Discussions were held with flower exporters, flower sellers and personnel from Department of National Botanical Gardens and Export Development Board. Snowball sampling methods were used to select the flower growers. Secondary data were collected from the books, research articles, institutional publications and internet. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 17). Majority (79.2%) of the respondents were females and mean age of the respondents was 51 years. Cultivation of food crops and flowers was the main source of income of the majority (74.5%). Asetermaria, Desi, Gerbera, Chrysanthemum, Rose and Lilies were the main flowers cultivated and the average monthly income received from flowers was LKR 28,250.96. Selling to the wholesalers visiting the village is the most prominent local marketing method for the growers. A continuous demand exists in the international market for cut flowers. Even though flower exporters are willing to buy flowers from the area, continuous and quality supply of flowers is a problem. Unavailability of proper market alone was identified as the main problem by 42.3% of respondents. It is recommended to motivate farmers for production planning. Export quality flower production at the village level, more tailor made trainings to growers, integrated approach to provide inputs, market and information in one package will provide solutions for the issues encountered in the sector.
Intrinsic Viscosity-molecular Weight Relationship of Poly (Hexanediol Adipate)
Authors: Li Jiankun , Zong Zegang , Hou Dehua , Tu Bojun , Xue Weilan , Zeng Zuoxiang
Published: May 2019

In this work, a series of poly(Hexanediol adipate)(PHA) samples (103＜Mn＜104) with narrow molecular weight distribution were prepared by the polymerization between adilic acid and 1,6-hexandiol. End-group analysis was applied to determine the number average molecular weight (Mn) of PHA. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) was employed to obtain the average molecular weights (Mn, Mv, Mw).The intrinsic viscosity of the samples in the tetrahydrofuran (THF) solution was determined at 298 K by the dilution extrapolation method and the one-point method. The relationship between the intrinsic viscosity and the molecular weight for PHA was studied by the Mark-Houwink-Sakurada (MHS) equation, and the parameters of equation were determined.
Analysis of Physico-chemical and Hydraulic Characteristics of Soil in Forest Area of Southwestern, Nigeria
Authors: Ademiju T.  A. , Oseyanbu R. J. , Momah L. N.
Published: May 2019

In this area of agricultural transformation by the government of Nigeria, every opportunity in order to achieve food security should not be ignored. Most studies on soil characteristics had centered on the suitability of the soil for agricultural   production and it is observed that any soil that does not support crop production refers to as poor and unproductive. Achieving efficient production and high yield requires adequate knowledge of the soil and climatic conditions that are favorable to the crops. The study was conducted to investigates physico-chemical and hydraulic properties of forest soils in southwestern, Nigeria in latitude 7o5’3’’N and 7o 21’57.6’N and longitude 5o 10’31’’E and 5o56’6.3’’E. The soil samples were randomly taken from four (4) forest locations in Ondo State, Nigeria. The soils were taken at different depths (0-15 cm, 15-30 cm, and 30-45 cm) and the samples were taken to the laboratory in order to determine their pH, electrical conductivity, exchangeable cations, and texture. The results of the soil test were then subjected to appropriate statistical analyses. Results show that sandy soil had the highest percentage in the forest at kajola oju-irin (70%). The bulk density is high in Ijare with 1.6 g/cm3 which could allow easy penetration of water and nutrient. Also, the soil pH, electrical conductivity and exchangeable cations range from 4.65 to 6.99,78.28 to 89.20 mS/cm and 0.40 cmol/kg to  2.60 cmol/kg respectively. The soils are described as light and falls under sandy loam soil. This study provides information on the suitability of the soils in the forest areas in south west Nigeria.
TRIM14 expression is regulated by IRF‐1 and IRF‐2
Authors: Cui Jingang , Xu Xiao , Li Yutong , Hu Xiaomei , Xie Yingpeng , Tan Juan , Qiao Wentao
Published: May 2019

Tripartite motif‐containing 14 (TRIM14) is a mitochondrial adaptor that promotes innate immune signaling and plays important roles in antiviral defense. Expression of TRIM14 is induced by interferon (IFN)‐I. However, the mechanism by which IFN‐I induces TRIM14 production is not yet determined. In this study, we have examined the function of TRIM14 promoter and found that a GC box and an IFN‐stimulated response element (ISRE) are necessary for the basal level transcription of TRIM14. We further observed that IFN‐I activates the TRIM14 promoter through the ISRE. In particular, interferon regulatory factor (IRF)‐1 and IRF‐2 bind to the TRIM14 promoter and activate transcription of TRIM14. Moreover, knockdown of IRF‐1 reduces the stimulation of TRIM14 transcription by IFN‐α, suggesting that IRF‐1 is involved in the activation of TRIM14 by IFN‐I. IRF‐2 has little effect on IFN‐α‐induced TRIM14 transcription but is essential for the basal transcription of TRIM14.
Systolic Dysfunction in Systemic Sclerosis: Prevalence and Prognostic Implications
Authors: Tennøe Anders H. , Murbræch Klaus , Andreassen Johanna C. , Fretheim Håvard , Midtvedt Øyvind , Garen Torhild , Dalen Håvard , Gude Einar , Andreassen Arne , Aakhus Svend , Molberg Øyvind , Hoffmann‐Vold Anna‐Maria
Published: May 2019

Objective

Primary cardiac involvement is presumed to account for a substantial part of disease‐related mortality in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Still, there are knowledge gaps on the evolution and total burden of systolic dysfunction in SSc. Here we evaluated prospective left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) systolic function in an unselected SSc cohort and assessed the burden of systolic dysfunction on mortality.

Methods

From the Oslo University Hospital cohort, 277 SSc patients were included from 2003‐2016 and compared with healthy controls. Serial echocardiographies were reevaluated in order to detect change in systolic function. Right heart catheterization was performed on patients suspected of pulmonary hypertension. Descriptive and regression analyses were conducted.

Results

At baseline, LV systolic dysfunction by ejection fraction less than 50%, or a global longitudinal strain greater than −17.0%, was found in 12% and 24%, respectively. RV systolic dysfunction measured by tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) less than 17 mm was evident in 10%. Follow‐up echocardiography was performed after a median of 3.3 years (interquartile range [IQR] 1.5‐5.6). At follow‐up, LV systolic function remained stable, whereas RV function evaluated by TAPSE deteriorated (mean 23.1 to 21.7 mm, P = 0.005) equaling a 15% prevalence of RV systolic dysfunction. RV systolic function predicted mortality in multivariable models (hazard ratio 0.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.19‐0.90, P value 0.027), whereas LV systolic function lost predictive significance when adjusted for TAPSE.

Conclusion

In this unselected and prospective study, systolic dysfunction of the LV and RV was a frequent complication of SSc. LV systolic function remained stable across the observation period, whereas RV function deteriorated and predicted mortality.
Deciphering the Electroluminescence Behavior of Silver(I)‐Complexes in Light‐Emitting Electrochemical Cells: Limitations and Solutions toward Highly Stable Devices
Authors: Fresta Elisa , Carbonell‐Vilar José M. , Yu Jiayin , Armentano Donatella , Cano Joan , Viciano‐Chumillas Marta , Costa Rubén D.
Published: May 2019

Ionic transition‐metal complexes based on silver(I) metal core (Ag‐iTMCs) represent an appealing alternative to other iTMCs in solid‐state lighting owing to (i) their low cost and well‐known synthesis, (ii) the tunable bandgap, and (iii) the highly efficient photoluminescence. However, their electroluminescence behavior is barely studied. Herein, the archetypal green‐emitting Ag‐iTMCs, namely [Ag(4,4′‐dimethoxy‐2,2′‐bipyridine)(Xantphos)]X (X = BF4, PF6, and ClO4), are thoughtfully investigated, revealing their electroluminescent features in light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs). Despite optimizing device fabrication and operation, luminance of 40 cd m−2, efficacy of 0.2 cd A−1, and a very poor stability of 30 s are achieved. This outcome encourages the comprehensive study of the degradation mechanism combining electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and cyclic voltammetry techniques. These results point out the irreversible formation of silver nanoclusters under operation strongly limiting the device performance. As such, LECs are further optimized by (i) changing the counterions (PF6− and ClO4−) and (ii) decoupling electron injection and exciton formation using a double‐layered architecture. The synergy of both approaches leads to a broad exciplex‐like whitish electroluminescence emission (x/y CIE of 0.40/0.44 and color rendering index of 85) with an outstanding improved stability of ≈4 orders of magnitude (>80 h) without losing brightness (35 cd m−2).
Efficient Blue Phosphorescent OLEDs with Improved Stability and Color Purity through Judicious Triplet Exciton Management
Authors: Klimes Kody , Zhu Zhi‐Qiang , Li Jian
Published: May 2019

Highly efficient and stable blue phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes are achieved by employing a step‐wise graded doping of platinum(II) 9‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐2‐(9‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐9H‐carbazol‐2‐yloxy)‐9H‐carbazole (PtNON) in a device setting. A device employing PtNON demonstrates a high peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 17.4% with an estimated LT70 lifetime of over 1330 h at a brightness of 1000 cd m−2. PtNON is then investigated as a “triplet sensitizer” in an alternating donor–acceptor doped emissive layer to further improve the device emission color purity by carefully managing an efficient Förster resonant energy transfer from PtNON to 2,5,8,11‐tetra‐tert‐butylperylene as a selected acceptor material. Thus, such OLED devices demonstrate an EQE of 16.9% with color coordinates of (0.16, 0.25) and an estimated luminance (LT70) lifetime of 628 h at a high brightness of 1000 cd m−2.
Magnetic Plasmon Networks Programmed by Molecular Self‐Assembly
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Huh Ji‐Hyeok , Lee Jaewon , Kim Kwangjin , Park Kyung Jin , Lee Seungwoo , Ke Yonggang
Published: May 2019

Nanoscale manipulation of magnetic fields has been a long‐term pursuit in plasmonics and metamaterials, as it can enable a range of appealing optical properties, such as high‐sensitivity circular dichroism, directional scattering, and low‐refractive‐index materials. Inspired by the natural magnetism of aromatic molecules, the cyclic ring cluster of plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) has been suggested as a promising architecture with induced unnatural magnetism, especially at visible frequencies. However, it remains challenging to assemble plasmonic NPs into complex networks exhibiting strong visible magnetism. Here, a DNA‐origami‐based strategy is introduced to realize molecular self‐assembly of NPs forming complex magnetic architectures, exhibiting emergent properties including anti‐ferromagnetism, purely magnetic‐based Fano resonances, and magnetic surface plasmon polaritons. The basic building block, a gold NP (AuNP) ring consisting of six AuNP seeds, is arranged on a DNA origami frame with nanometer precision. The subsequent hierarchical assembly of the AuNP rings leads to the formation of higher‐order networks of clusters and polymeric chains. Strong emergent plasmonic properties are induced by in situ growth of silver upon the AuNP seeds. This work may facilitate the development of a tunable and scalable DNA‐based strategy for the assembly of optical magnetic circuitry, as well as plasmonic metamaterials with high fidelity.
The metal complexes of new Schiff bases containing phosphonate groups and catalytic properties for alkane oxidation
Authors: Dolaz Mustafa , Kose Muhammet
Published: May 2019

In this study, two new salicylidene phosphonate ligands (HL1 and HL2) and their metal complexes (Cu2+, VO2+ and La3+) were synthesized and characterized by spectroscopic and analytical methods. The molecular structure of the ligand HL1 was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction study. In the structure of the ligand, there is an intramolecular phenol‐imine hydrogen bond. The synthesized compounds exhibit only one emission maximum upon excitation at 270–295  nm range. Complexation of the Schiff base ligands with metal ions did not cause a considerable quenching effect. Finally, the complexes prepared were used as catalysts in cyclohexane oxidation under microwave irradiation. The complexes showed high conversion rates (> 90%) for cyclohexane oxidation; however, poor selectivity was observed for all complexes. The La3+ complexes showed better selectivity for cyclohexane → cyclohexanol transformation with about 45% selectivity.
Historical background to maternal‐neonate separation and neonatal care
Authors: Bergman Nils J.
Published: May 2019

Maternal‐neonate separation after birth is standard practice in the modern obstetric care. This is however a relatively new phenomenon, and its origins are described. Around 1890, two obstetricians in France expanded on a newly invented egg hatchery as a method of caring for preterm newborns. Mothers provided basic care, until incubators became part of commercial exhibitions that excluded them. After some 40 years hospitals accepted incubators, and adopted the strict separation of mothers from babies observed at the exhibitions. The introduction of artificial infant formula made the separation practical, and this also became normal practice rather than breastfeeding. Incubators and formula were unquestioned standard practices before randomized controlled trials were introduced, and therefore never subjected to such trials. The introduction of Kangaroo Care began 40 years ago in Colombia, now as a novel intervention. Recent trials do in fact show that maternal‐neonate separation is detrimental to mothers and babies. Recent scientific discoveries such as the microbiome, epigenetics, and neuroimaging provide the scientific explanations that have not been available before, suggesting that skin‐to‐skin contact and breastfeeding are defining for the basic reproductive biology of human beings.
Comparison of PD‐L1 detection assays and corresponding significance in evaluation of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Huang Sixia , Nong Lin , Liang Li , Zheng Yalin , Wang Wei , Liu Jumei , Li Dong , Li Xin , Wang Ying , Zhang Bo , Li Ting
Published: May 2019

The expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) is a biomarker for immunotherapy, but approved detection method is absent in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Here, we performed three methods including immunohistochemistry (IHC) (clone SP263 and SP142), RNAscope, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to evaluate PD‐L1 status on a cohort of DLBCL including 94 of DLBCL‐NOS, 25 of primary mediastinal large B‐cell lymphoma (PMBCL) and 7 of double‐hit lymphoma (DHL). SP263 with 25% for immune cell (IC) or combined cell and SP142 with 10% for tumor cell (TC), 20% for both of IC and combined cell were proved to have corresponding survival prognostic. Combined+ showed comparable prognostic value with TC+ and IC+. SP263 and SP142 showed strong concordance (k = 0.788) with combined+ rates of 33.3% (42/126) and 34.9% (44/126), respectively. In DLBCL‐NOS, TC+ by SP263 preferred to non‐GCB and immunoblastic variant DLBCL‐NOS (P = 0.029 and P = 0.004). Combined+ (SP263 and SP142) were associated with more than one extranodal site involved (P = 0.006, P = 0.042), higher ECOG PS scores (P = 0.001, P < 0.001), high IPI risk (P = 0.012, P = 0.005), and poor treatment response (P = 0.095, P = 0.002). IC+ by SP263 and SP142 were both independent risk factors (P = 0.027, P = 0.037). 9p24.1 locus amplification and gain were identified in 4.3% and 7.6% DLBCL‐NOS and indicated shorter overall survival (P = 0.004). Positive rate of PD‐L1 by RNAscope was 36.5%, while no clinical significance shown. PD‐L1 positive rates were all higher in PMBCL and DHL than in DLBCL‐NOS by SP263, SP142, RNAscope, and FISH (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.005 and P < 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, combined PD‐L1 expression by IHC was potentially reliable and convenient as a predicting biomarker. SP263 staining was easier to evaluate and recognized more PD‐L1‐stained cells, but SP142 presented a better prognostic indicator. FISH and RNAscope could be used as supplementary assays. PMBCL itself was a sensitive cohort for immunotherapy.
Mass Transport in Porous Electrodes Studied by Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy: Example of Nanoporous Gold
Authors: Haensch Mareike , Balboa Luis , Graf Matthias , Silva Olaya Alex Ricardo , Weissmüller Jörg , Wittstock Gunther
Published: May 2019

Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) approach curves were measured above different samples of nanoporous gold (NPG) using ascorbic acid as an irreversible redox mediator. Under these circumstances, the microelectrode current is informative in terms of the diffusive mass transport inside the network of pores in the sample, because mediator regeneration at NPG is not possible for an irreversible mediator. The reaction–transport problem was solved by finite element simulation for a wide variety of working distances, film thicknesses, and microelectrode geometries. The Bruggeman equation was used to relate transport properties and porosity. The simulation leads to an analytical expression that allows the determination of porosity values corrected by the tortuosity of insulating and conducting materials. The validity of the approach was demonstrated by applying it to NPG samples for which structural parameters can be varied by the particular dealloying protocol. This procedure is potentially applicable for following coarsening processes in porous electrodes and other materials, because the SECM procedure avoids emersion from electrolyte solution for those determinations.
Efficient Electrochemical Hydrogenation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Bis(hydroxymethyl)furan on Ag‐Displaced Nanotextured Cu Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhang Fen , Michel Frederick C. , Co Anne C.
Published: May 2019

The hydrogenation of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), an important bio‐based platform chemical, to 2,5‐bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF), a promising building block for polymers, is conventionally conducted at high pressures of H2 in the presence of heterogeneous catalysts. Recently, electrochemical hydrogenation has emerged as a promising process for BHMF production; however, one challenge of this process is to improve the catalytic activity of the electrocatalyst. In this study, a series of AgCu electrocatalysts was prepared by galvanic displacement of Ag on nanotextured Cu particles. A comprehensive characterization of the catalysts was carried out and the effects of electrolysis potential, reaction time, and HMF concentration were investigated. The concentration of AgNO3 solution in which Cu was displaced was found to be a key factor to control the catalyst surface morphology, and the optimal catalyst was shown to have high catalytic activity and excellent stability for the electrochemical hydrogenation of HMF to BHMF.
Bioleaching of metal from waste stream using a native strain of Acidithiobacillus isolated from a coal mine drainage
Authors: Utimura Solange Kazue , Arevalo Santiago Justo , Rosario Carlos Gonzalo Alvarez , Aguilar Mauro Quiñones , Tenório Jorge Alberto Soares , Espinosa Denise Crocce Romano
Published: May 2019

In this study, the feasibility of using a biohydrometallurgical technique for selective metals recovery from electronic waste (e‐waste) by bacterial bioleaching was investigated. Acidithiobacillus was identified in coal mining acid mine drainage (AMD). The microorganism was studied using specific sequencing of a 16s rDNA fragment. The potential for the dissolution of copper from waste printed wire boards (PWBs) using the isolated Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans (A. ferroxidans) was evaluated. The bioleaching experiments were performed in an orbital shaker at 30 °C and 170 rpm, with 10 % (v/v) inoculum and a pulp density of 30 g/L. The copper concentration was determined by energy dispersive x‐ray fluorescence (XRF). The result shows that copper recovery from PWBs using our A. ferrooxidans strain was 95 % after 8 days, which showed the feasibility of this process.
CO2 capture efficiency in post‐combustion using MWNT‐PAA in a packed bed column
Authors: Ngoy Jacob M. , Falcon Rosemary
Published: May 2019

The adsorption capacity of polyaspartamide (PAA) and multi‐wall carbon nanotubes with polyaspartamide (MWNT‐PAA) was investigated through a packed bed column with the flowing of flue gas composed of 15 % CO2, 5 % O2 and the balance N2. The adsorption performed at 25 °C, 110 kPa and inlet gas flow rate of 60 mL/min resulted in high CO2 adsorption capacity of 5.70 and 10.20 mmol‐CO2/g for PAA and MWNT‐PAA, respectively. The adsorption kinetics was very high, so 7 min were enough for the effluent gas to reach the breakthrough after saturation. The consistency of adsorbents in recurring regeneration was successful through a continuous TSA system of 10 cycle adsorption‐desorption with temperatures of 25–100 °C. The evaluation of heat through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) resulted in exothermic adsorption with heat release of 45.14 kJ/mol and 124.38 kJ/mol for PAA and MWNT‐PAA, respectively. The heat release was found favourable to promote the desorption as the temperature could rise after adsorption. This is an advantage for energy efficiency, as it depicts the potential of energy recovery. Thus, both adsorbent PAA and MWNT‐PAA were demonstrated to be promising for CO2 adsorption capture in post‐combustion.
Machine learning models to predict bottom hole pressure in multi‐phase flow in vertical oil production wells
Authors: Ahmadi Mohammad Ali , Chen Zhangxin
Published: May 2019

The precise estimation of a pressure drop in vertical multiphase flowing oil wells plays a crucial role in designing robust production facilities and evaluating optimum production plans. A significant amount of research has been conducted on determining a pressure drop via calculating the bottom hole pressure (BHP); these different methods as well as numerical, analytical, semi‐analytical, and empirical correlations can be used for doing this task. Unfortunately, most of those correlations are unable to provide reasonable precision when calculating BHP and, consequently, improvements are still required. To predict BHP in vertical wells, several hybrids of meta‐heuristic optimization methods and a bio‐inspired connectionist approach, i.e., artificial neural network (ANN), are employed. The main goal of these optimization algorithms is to optimize the parameters of the ANN models, i.e., weights and biases, to improve their performance. Based on the obtained outputs and various robustness indexes, a hybrid genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization (HGAPSO) is highly precise and has a maximum of 10 % error compared to measured pressure data. The results of this work reveal the capability of those hybrid connectionist models for predicting the BHP of multi‐phase flow in vertical wells; these results demonstrate the promising use of connectionist methods in commercial production software in the near future.
Universal endometrial cancer tumor typing: How much has immunohistochemistry, microsatellite instability, and MLH1 methylation improved the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome across the population?
Authors: Kahn Ryan M. , Gordhandas Sushmita , Maddy Brandon Paul , Baltich Nelson Becky , Askin Gulce , Christos Paul J. , Caputo Thomas A. , Chapman‐Davis Eloise , Holcomb Kevin , Frey Melissa K.
Published: May 2019

Background

Universal tumor testing for defective DNA mismatch repair (MMR) is recommended for all women diagnosed with endometrial cancer to identify those with underlying Lynch syndrome. However, the effectiveness of these screening methods in identifying individuals with Lynch syndrome across the population has not been well studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes of MMR immunohistochemistry (IHC), mutL homolog 1 (MLH1) methylation, and microsatellite instability (MSI) analysis among patients with endometrial cancer.

Methods

A complete systematic search of online databases (PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library) for 1990‐2018 was performed. A DerSimonian‐Laird random effects model meta‐analysis was used to estimate the weighted prevalence of Lynch syndrome diagnoses.

Results

The comprehensive search produced 4400 publications. Twenty‐nine peer‐reviewed studies met the inclusion criteria. Patients with endometrial cancer (n = 6649) were identified, and 206 (3%) were confirmed to have Lynch syndrome through germline genetic testing after positive universal tumor molecular screening. Among 5917 patients who underwent tumor IHC, 28% had abnormal staining. Among 3140 patients who underwent MSI analysis, 31% had MSI. Among patients with endometrial cancer, the weighted prevalence of Lynch syndrome germline mutations was 15% (95% confidence interval [CI], 11%‐18%) with deficient IHC staining and 19% (95% CI, 13%‐26%) with a positive MSI analysis. Among 1159 patients who exhibited a loss of MLH1 staining, 143 (13.7%) were found to be MLH1 methylation–negative among those who underwent methylation testing, and 32 demonstrated a germline MLH1 mutation (2.8% of all absent MLH1 staining cases and 22.4% of all MLH1 methylation–negative cases). Forty‐three percent of patients with endometrial cancer who were diagnosed with Lynch syndrome via tumor typing would have been missed by family history–based screening alone.

Conclusions

Despite the widespread implementation of universal tumor testing in endometrial cancer, data regarding testing results remain limited. This study provides predictive values that will help practitioners to evaluate abnormal results in the context of Lynch syndrome and aid them in patient counseling.
Carbazole‐Terpyridine Donor‐Acceptor Dyads with Rigid π‐Conjugated Bridges
Authors: Matteucci Elia , Baschieri Andrea , Sambri Letizia , Monti Filippo , Pavoni Eleonora , Bandini Elisa , Armaroli Nicola
Published: May 2019

A series of molecules in which 9H‐carbazole (electron donor, D) and 2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine (electron acceptor, A) are connected through rigid π‐conjugated bridges (D‐π‐A systems) have been synthesized and their photophysical properties examined in detail, with the support of DFT calculations. The bridges are made of different sequences of ethynylene, phenylene, and anthracene groups. The synthetic strategies involve condensation of 2‐acetylpyridine with the aromatic aldehyde moiety on different functionalized π‐conjugated bridges and couplings with carbazole derivatives. The system incorporating anthracene in the bridge shows the typical absorption and emission fingerprints of this polycyclic hydrocarbon. The other systems have HOMOs and LUMOs centred, respectively, over the carbazole and the bridge and exhibit solvatochromic charge‐transfer (CT) luminescence with high photoluminescence yield up to 70 %, except when an ethynylene unit is directly attached to the carbazole ring, due to a trans‐bent non‐emissive π–σ* excited state.
What drives small and medium enterprises towards sustainability? Role of interactions between pressures, barriers, and benefits
Authors: Cantele Silvia , Zardini Alessandro
Published: May 2019

The literature on the subject of corporate social responsibility and environmental management in small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) has theorized about the different factors influencing the propensity of business owners/managers towards sustainability. However, the varying results and some gaps in these previous studies have highlighted the need to search for new models for the relationships among these drivers. This study theorizes and tests a model in which the decision flow of SME owners/managers is described as a multistep process in which the first push felt from internal and external pressures is mediated by two opposite forces: the positive influence exerted by the perceived benefits of sustainability and the negative influence exerted by the perceived barriers of implementing it. Data were collected from an Italian SME survey and analyzed through structural equation modelling. The results confirmed the hypotheses of a mediated path of influence, thus highlighting the different roles of factors that enable and block sustainability in SMEs, with prospective business and policy‐making implications in the light of the pursuit of the United Nation's recommended Sustainable Development Goals.
Network slicing for vehicular communication
Authors: Khan Hamza , Luoto Petri , Samarakoon Sumudu , Bennis Mehdi , Latva‐Aho Matti
Published: May 2019

Ultra‐reliable vehicle‐to‐everything (V2X) communication is essential for enabling the next generation of intelligent vehicles. V2X communication is a growing area of communication that connects vehicles to neighboring vehicles (V2V), infrastructure (V2I), and pedestrians (V2P). Network slicing is one of the promising technologies for connectivity of the next generation devices, creating several logical networks on a common and programmable physical infrastructure. Network slicing offers an efficient way to satisfy the diverse use case requirements by exploiting the benefits of shared physical infrastructure. In this regard, we propose a network slicing‐based communication solution for vehicular networks. In this work, we model a highway scenario with vehicles having heterogeneous traffic demands. The autonomous driving slice (safety messages) and the infotainment slice (video stream) are the two logical slices created on a common infrastructure. We formulated a network clustering and slicing algorithm to partition the vehicles into different clusters and allocate slice leaders (SLs) to each cluster. SLs serve its clustered vehicles with high‐quality V2V links and forwards safety information with low latency. On the other hand, road side unit provides infotainment service using high‐quality V2I links. An extensive Long Term Evolution Advanced system‐level simulator with enhancement of cellular V2X standard is used to evaluate the performance of the proposed method, in which it is shown that the proposed network slicing technique achieves low latency and high‐reliability communication.
Biovalorization of vegetable oil refinery wastewater into value‐added compounds by Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Darvishi Farshad , Salmani Nahideh , Hosseini Barumand
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Vegetable oil refinery wastewater (VORW) is an environmental pollutant in less developed countries which annually produce 75% of vegetable oils worldwide. Microbial oils from low‐cost substrates are of growing importance for the production of renewable biofuel feedstocks, and food and feed supplements. In the current study, VORW was used as a cheap substrate to produce added‐value compounds including lipase, microbial oil and lipid‐rich biomass using Yarrowia lipolytica. The chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction of the wastewater was studied after fermentation.

RESULTS

The maximum microbial oil concentration and lipase activity were 2.68 g L−1 and 8 U mL−1 after 48 h of inoculation. The microbial oil production increased from 2.86 g L−1 to 7.74 g L−1 after optimization by response surface methodology. Using optimized medium, 11 g L−1 microbial oil and 18.3 g L−1 biomass were obtained in the bioreactor culture. The amount of unsaturated fatty acids (FAs) reached ≤63% in the resulting microbial oil with a suitable FA profile for the production of lipid‐rich biomass. The biomass of Y. lipolytica has 60% lipid content and a significant amount of essential FAs which makes it as a proper feed supplement. The COD level of the wastewater decreased by 80% after 20 h.

CONCLUSION

VORW can be used as a promising substrate for the sustainable production of microbial oil and lipid‐rich biomass with useful FAs by Y. lipolytica. This process also can simultaneously reduce environmental pollution of wastewater in a safe and eco‐friendly way. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Adverse effects of respiratory disease medicaments and tooth brushing on teeth: A scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray fluorescence and infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Gomes Raimundo Nonato S. , Bhattacharjee Tanmoy T. , Carvalho Luis Felipe C. S. , Soares Luís Eduardo S.
Published: May 2019

The present study aims to evaluate the effect of brushing with fluoride dentifrice on teeth severely affected by erosion due to respiratory medicaments. Enamel (n = 50) and dentin (n = 50) bovine specimens were prepared and treated with artificial saliva (S‐control), acebrofilin hydrochloride (AC), ambroxol hydrochloride (AM), bromhexine hydrochloride (BR), and salbutamol sulfate (SS) and subjected to cycles of demineralization (immersing in 3 mL, 1 min, three times a day at intervals of 1 hr, for 5 days) followed by remineralization (saliva, 37°C, 1 hr). Simulated brushing with fluoridated toothpaste was performed using 810 strokes in a reciprocal‐action brushing simulator. Scanning electron microscopy, micro energy dispersive X‐ray fluorescence (μ‐EDXRF) spectroscopy and attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR FTIR) spectroscopy were then performed. μ‐EDXRF images showed extensive erosion after treatment with all medicaments. SEM images showed enamel erosion in order SS > BR > AC = AM > S after brushing and fluoridation. FTIR results were in agreement. In case of dentin, μ‐EDXRF measurements showed significant difference in mineral content (percent weight of calcium and phosphate) in SS + brushing + fluoridation treated enamel compared to control, while μ‐EDXRF images showed erosive effects in the order SS > AM>BR > AC = S post brushing + fluoridation. SEM images showed erosion in the order SS > AM = BR > AC > S post brushing + fluoridation. Again, FTIR multivariate results were in agreement. Overall, our study shows that proper oral care is critical when taking certain medication. The study also demonstrates the possible use of FTIR for rapid clinical monitoring of tooth erosion in clinics.
Bis(enaminones) as Versatile Precursors for Novel Bis([1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines) and Bis(2‐thioxo‐2,3‐dihydropyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4(1H)‐ones)
Authors: Fares Ibrahim M. Z. , Mekky Ahmed E. M. , Abdelhamid Ismail A. , Elwahy Ahmed H. M.
Published: May 2019

Novel bis([1,2,4]triazolo[1,5‐a]pyrimidines) and bis(2‐thioxo‐2,3‐dihydropyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidin‐4(1H)‐ones) were prepared utilizing bis(enaminones) as precursors. The structures of the prepared compounds were elucidated by several spectral tools as well as elemental analyses.
The role of intellectual capital in new product development: Can it become a liability?
Authors: Subramanian Annapoornima M. , van de Vrande Vareska
Published: May 2019

Given the increasingly high cost of new product development (NPD), it is important for firms to terminate unsuccessful NPD projects as soon as possible. This article investigates the role of intellectual capital in the discontinuation of NPD projects. The three dimensions of intellectual capital (human, structural, and social capital) are posited to decrease the likelihood of discontinuation of NPD projects, while contextual factors such as the firm's discontinuation experience and the size of the drug development portfolio are expected to affect this relationship. The research model is tested using a unique data set of 1,168 drug discovery and development projects. The results suggest that NPD projects rich in all three dimensions of intellectual capital are less likely to be discontinued. The size of the firm's drug development portfolio, however, is found to mitigate these effects, while discontinuation experience enhances the relationship between intellectual capital and discontinuation duration. As only a fraction of new product development initiatives result in success, timely discontinuation of unsuccessful projects is critical for sustained performance of organizations. Our findings make an important contribution to this stream of work. By highlighting the role of intellectual capital in the discontinuation process, we offer an interesting twist to the literature that invariably assumes intellectual capital to be important for innovation.
Production of selenium‐biofortified microgreens from selenium‐enriched seeds of basil
Authors: Puccinelli Martina , Malorgio Fernando , Rosellini Irene , Pezzarossa Beatrice
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Microgreens (i.e. tender immature greens) are a popular alternative to sprouts (i.e. germinating seeds) because of their higher content of vitamins, carotenoids and phenols, as well as their lower content of nitrates. Their nutritional value can be improved by biofortification, which increases micronutrient levels during plant growth. Because selenium (Se) plays a significant role in antioxidant defense, biofortification with Se is a good way of improving the nutritional quality of sprouts and microgreens. The present study investigated the production of Se‐fortified microgreens from Se‐enriched seeds of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.). These microgreens could be used as new beneficial dietary supplements.

RESULTS

Basil plants were grown in a nutrient solution, containing 0 (control), 4 or 8 mg Se L−1 as sodium selenate, to full maturity. Seeds accumulated a high amount of Se and were then used to produce microgreens. The germination index was higher in the seeds from Se‐treated plants and the microgreens were enriched in Se. The antioxidant capacity of Se‐fortified microgreens was higher compared to the control.

CONCLUSION

The production of microgreens from Se‐enriched seeds could comprise a good system for obtaining microgreens with a high nutritional value. Basil plants treated with Se could be used to produce both Se‐fortified leaves and microgreens. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparing Friedman versus Mack–Skillings data analyses on duplicated rank data: a case of visual color intensity
Authors: Carabante Kennet M , Chokumnoyporn Napapan , Sriwattana Sujinda , Alonso Jose , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

In duplicated ranking tests, panelists either rank duplicates separately (2SS) or jointly in a single session (1SS). This study compared data analyses of duplicated yellow color intensity rank data using Friedman versus Mack–Skillings (M–S) tests. Panelists (n = 75) ranked an orange juice set twice – a similar‐samples set (100%, 95% versus 90%); samples other than the 100% juice were prepared by dilution with water. Rank sum data were obtained from (a) intermediate ranks from jointly re‐ranked scores of 2SS for each panelist, and (b) joint rank data of all panelists from the two replications in 1SS. Both (a) and (b) were analyzed using the M–S test. The median rank data (c) for each panelist from two replications were analyzed using the Friedman test.

RESULTS

Comparing M–S with the Friedman tests, the former generally produced higher test statistics and lower P‐values than the latter. However, when considering the pattern of post hoc pairwise significant differences, both tests yielded similar conclusions.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that, in a duplicated ranking test with three samples that were very similar in color, separating the two replications into two complete individual ranking tests or serving sessions (2SS) may prevent sensitivity loss due to fatigue that is otherwise experienced when evaluating all samples together in a single session (1SS). We expected to find the M–S test to be more sensitive than the Friedman test; however, this hypothesis was not supported by the post hoc (Tukey's honest significant difference (HSD)) multiple comparison test results under the specific test conditions in this study. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Statin use protective for chronic rhinosinusitis in a nationally representative sample of the United States
Authors: Wilson James H. , Payne Spencer C. , Fermin Cyrelle‐Elize R. , Churnin Ian , Qazi Jamiluddin , Mattos Jose L.
Published: May 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Statins have long been used in the management of cardiovascular disease for their lipid‐lowering properties. However, recent research suggests that statins may also have anti‐inflammatory effects via modulation of lipid‐containing enzymes and mediators, and therefore may have therapeutic value in the treatment of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

The 2006 to 2015 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) data were queried to analyze the relationship between statin use and rates of CRS. CRS was indicated by the presence of an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code for CRS in one of the five diagnosis variables. Statin use was indicated by the presence of a statin medication in any of the 30 medication variables using the Multum Lexicon Drug Database, with newly prescribed medications excluded. Relevant demographic, socioeconomic, and comorbid factors were included in a multivariate logistic regression model, which accounted for the complex, stratified, multistage survey design of the NAMCS.

Results

There were 390,538 unweighted visit records used in the weighted analysis dataset, corresponding to 9,612,613,668 weighted visits. Statin use was associated with a decreased rate of CRS in both a univariate analysis (odds ratio [OR] = 0.53, P < .001) and the multivariate logistic regression accounting for comorbid, socioeconomic, and demographic factors (OR = 0.79, P = .030).

Conclusions

Statin use is associated with decreased rates of CRS based on a nationally representative sample of outpatient visits in the United States. This supports research that suggests statin medications may have protective properties against CRS, and further research is warranted into their potential therapeutic value for this indication.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:848–851, 2020
A dual‐tuned multichannel bilateral RF coil for 1H/23Na breast MRI at 7 T
Authors: Ianniello Carlotta , Madelin Guillaume , Moy Linda , Brown Ryan
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Sodium MRI has shown promise for monitoring neoadjuvant chemotherapy response in breast cancer. The purpose of this work was to build a dual‐tuned bilateral proton/sodium breast coil for 7T MRI that provides sufficient SNR to enable sodium breast imaging in less than 10 minutes.

Methods

The proton/sodium coil consists of 2 shielded unilateral units: 1 for each breast. Each unit consists of 3 nested layers: (1) a 3‐loop solenoid for sodium excitation, (2) a 3‐loop solenoid for proton excitation and signal reception, and (3) a 4‐channel receive array for sodium signal reception. Benchmark measurements were performed in phantoms with and without the sodium receive array insert. In vivo images were acquired on a healthy volunteer.

Results

The sodium receive array boosted 1.5 to 3 times the SNR compared with the solenoid. Proton SNR loss due to residual interaction with the sodium array was less than 10%. The coil enabled sodium imaging in vivo with 2.8‐mm isotropic nominal resolution (~5‐mm real resolution) in 9:36 minutes.

Conclusion

The coil design that we propose addresses challenges associated with sodium's low SNR from a hardware perspective and offers the opportunity to investigate noninvasively breast tumor metabolism as a function of sodium concentration in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy.