bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacto do tratamento periodontal não-cirúrgico nos níveis plasmáticos da proteína c-Reativa em pacientes com periodontite crônica: revisão da literatura
Authors: Franceschine José Alberto Da Sila , Brito Fernanda , Figueredo Carlos Marcelo
Published: September 2017

Introdução: Desde que foi demostrado que a periodontite é capaz de induzir o aumento dos níveis da proteína C-reativa (CRP),

estudos têm buscado demonstrar o impacto do tratamento periodontal nos níveis da CRP, mas com resultados inconsistentes.

Objetivo: desse artigo foi avaliar o impacto do tratamento periodontal nos níveis da CRP em indivíduos com periodontite crônica (PC). Metodologia: buscas foram realizadas em bases de dados nacionais e internacionais até fevereiro 2014. Os parâmetros avaliados foram: parâmetros periodontais (profundidade de sondagem, nível de inserção, índice de placa e sangramento à sondagem, quantidade de sítios avaliados por dente); tempo de reavaliação após o tratamento periodontal, fatores de exclusão e prescrição de antibióticos. Resultados: Foram selecionados 7 estudos caso-controles sobre o impacto do tratamento periodontal nos níveis da CRP. Os estudos são bastante heterogêneos em relação aos parâmetros avaliados, mas observa-se uma melhor padronização metodológica nos estudos mais recentes. Com exceção de dois estudos que não mostraram influência do tratamento periodontal nos níveis da CRP, os outros cinco estudos selecionados demostraram um efeito positivo do tratamento periodontal nos níveis séricos de CRP. Conclusão: Os resultados dos estudos selecionados sugerem uma influência do tratamento periodontal não-cirúrgico nos níveis plasmáticos da proteína C-reativa em pacientes com PC. Apesar de entusiasmantes, até o momento, esses resultados não podem ser extrapolados. Estudos longitudinais bem controlados, com amostras representativas e com parâmetros de avaliação semelhantes são necessários para que conclusões sejam determinadas.
Reabsorção radicular cervical externa: relato de caso clínico
Authors: Silva Rafaela Lopes , Gesteira Maria de Fátima Malvar
Published: September 2017

Introdução: O termo reabsorção dentária designa a perda de tecido mineralizado em qualquer ponto da superfície radicular nos dentes, podendo ser externa, quando se inicia na superfície radicular externa do dente ou interna, quando se inicia nas paredes da cavidade pulpar. A reabsorção externa cervical é uma modalidade de reabsorção externa que se localiza no terço cervical da raiz, assintomática e que acomete principalmente dentes unirradiculares. Seu diagnóstico é feito através de exames imaginológicos. Resultam de consequências ou complicações de situações clínicas como trauma dentário, clareamento dental interno, reimplantes e movimentação ortodôntica. Objetivo: descrever um caso clínico de reabsorção cervical externa de um incisivo lateral inferior esquerdo. Relato de caso: Tal reabsorção foi observada na superfície mesial abaixo da junção amelo-cementária, tendo como fator etiológico provável o traumatismo dental, uma vez que os demais incisivos inferiores também haviam sido submetidos ao tratamento endodôntico. O tracionamento ortodôntico, seguido da curetagem da região reabsorvida e a restauração com Agregado de Trióxido Mineral (MTA) foram os procedimentos clínicos indicados, com o propósito de interromper o processo reabsortivo e manter a unidade dental no alvéolo. Devido à dificuldade de acesso à área reabsorvida, o tratamento apresenta uma abordagem multidisciplinar, visando à preservação e manutenção do elemento dental. Conclusão: O tracionamento ortodôntico seguido da restauração da superfície radicular reabsorvida e posterior intrusão parecem ser uma alternativa de tratamento viável de tratamento para casos de reabsorção radicular cervical externa.
Desconforto no trato vocal em professores do ensino fundamental
Authors: Rocha de Souza Lourdes Bernadete , Araujo Pernambuco Leandro , Rodrigues de Lima Carla , Marques dos Santos Marquiony
Published: September 2017

Introdução: A percepção de desconforto durante a produção da voz é um fator que pode interferir no desempenho da atividade laboral de professores, portanto, deve ser investigada. Objetivo: verificar percepção de desconforto do trato vocal em professores do ensino fundamental, e associar os resultados à idade, sexo, carga horária de trabalho e tempo de profissão. Metodologia: estudo observacional, tipo seccional. Amostra composta por 43 professores do ensino fundamental, de ambos os sexos, faixa etária entre 22 e 61 anos, média de idade de 42,5 anos. Os sujeitos responderam o protocolo de Desconforto do Trato Vocal, instrumento de autoavaliação que busca identificar a percepção sensorial de desconforto do trato vocal de acordo com a frequência e gravidade de oito sintomas, em uma escala de 0 (nunca) a 6 (sempre). A análise dos dados foi realizada de forma descritiva e analítica. A análise foi realizada por meio dos testes de Wilcoxon e Mann Whitney, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: todos os participantes desse estudo relataram sintoma de desconforto no trato vocal. Os sintomas mais frequentes foram secura e garganta irritada. Não houve associação entre frequência e intensidade dos sintomas de desconforto do trato vocal, sexo, carga horária semanal de trabalho e tempo de profissão. Houve relação entre os sintomas aperto na garganta e garganta irritada com a idade. Conclusão: houve elevada frequência de percepção de desconforto do trato vocal nessa amostra. Houve associação entre os sintomas aperto na garganta e garganta irritada nos professores com idade mais elevada. Os sintomas relacionados ao trato vocal devem ser levados em consideração no sentido de compreender as necessidades dos professores em suas atividades laborais.

 
Saúde bucal: a importância dos enxaguatórios com antissépticos
Authors: Araujo Danilo Barral de , Gonçalves Elvira Maria Borges , Martins Gabriela Botelho , Lima Max José Pimenta , Araújo Maria Thereza Barral
Published: September 2017

Introdução: Indicado com frequência no controle químico da placa bacteriana, os enxaguatórios bucais se constituem no meio mais simples para veiculação de substâncias antissépticas, sendo recomendada sua prescrição com vistas à prevenção e ao tratamento de afecções específicas, destacadamente, a cárie e a doença periodontal. Objetivo: Este estudo visa descrever os componentes antissépticos que integram os enxaguatórios bucais, delinear seus mecanismos de ação e os efeitos colaterais. Metodologia: Tendo como referência a literatura científica, foi realizada uma revisão sistemática sobre o tema através de consulta às bases dados da Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde, LILACS e SciELO. Resultados: Na formulação dos enxaguatórios bucais destacam-se os princípios ativos com atividade antisséptica, clorexidina, cloreto de cetilpiridínio, triclosan gantrez e os óleos essenciais timol, mentol, eucaliptol e o salicilato de metila diluídos em água e ou álcool. A esses fármacos são acrescidas várias substâncias entre as quais, benzoato de sódio, adoçantes (xilitol ou sacarina, por exemplo), propilenoglicol, EDTA, poloxâmero, hidróxido de sódio, lauril sulfato de sódio, polietilenoglicol e aromatizantes. Conclusão: É relevante para a preservação da saúde bucal, a indicação sob supervisão de enxaguatórios com antissépticos, sendo essencial que os acadêmicos de odontologia e os cirurgiões-dentistas tenham domínio da composição química, da ação farmacológica, dos efeitos colaterais e de possível ameaça de risco à saúde que os princípios ativos e as substâncias complementares são capazes de produzir.

 
Perfil socioeconômico de adolescentes grávidas atendidas no centro de referência da saúde da mulher na cidade de São Francisco do Conde – BA
Authors: Alves Leila Gadea , Alves Lívia Gadea , Pereira Unara Xavier , Rocha Selene Prado , Junior Howard Ribeiro , Barros-Nepomuceno Francisco Washington Araújo
Published: September 2017

Introdução: a adolescência é o período da vida caracterizado pela transição da infância a fase adulta de um indivíduo. Marcado por alterações em diversos níveis (físico, mental e social), a adolescência, geralmente, inicia aos 12 anos e estende-se até os 18. Muitos estudos têm demonstrado o aumento da prevalência da gravidez na adolescência no Brasil e demonstraram ser este um tema importante a ser avaliado como problema de saúde pública. Objetivo: descrever o perfil sócio-econômico das adolescentes grávidas sanfranciscanas atendidas e acompanhadas pelo Centro de Referência à Saúde da Mulher (CRESAM) no período de 2010 a 2013. Metodologia: estudo descritivo baseado na análise de prontuários de adolescentes grávidas atendidas e que realizaram o pré-natal no CRESAM. Foi aplicado um instrumento de registro de dados e as informações coletadas (idade, escolaridade, estado civil e condição econômica) foram organizadas, analisadas e tabuladas com o auxílio do Microsoft Office Excel 2010. Resultados: os principais resultados demonstraram que as adolescentes grávidas acompanhadas pelo CRESAM de São Francisco do Conde, Bahia, no período de 2010 a 2013, são casadas, realizaram o acompanhamento pré-natal, apresentam baixa formação educacional e recursos financeiros limitados para prover sua sobrevivência. Conclusão: acredita-se que cabe aos profissionais de saúde e/ou de áreas afins, com o apoio da Secretária de Saúde e Secretária de desenvolvimento e ação social do município de São Francisco do Conde, desenvolver ações que orientem sobre o planejamento familiar, a importância do acompanhamento pré-natal e sobre o tema de gravidez na adolescência para os jovens sanfranciscanos. 
Flow cytometry: a literature review
Authors: Errante Paolo Ruggero , Ebbing Pâmela Carolina Cruz , Rodrigues Francisco Sandro Menezes , Ferraz Renato Ribeiro Nogueira , Da Silva Neusa Pereira
Published: September 2017

Introduction: flow cytometry is a technique that employs an optical-electronic detection apparatus to analyze the physical and chemical properties of microscopic particles suspend in a liquid medium. Objective: to review the literature in search of the main studies that used flow cytometry as the main methodology. Method: Articles were selected according to their impact factor in the Journal of Citation Reports. Literature review: a light beam is direct to a continuous flow of suspended particles marked with fluorescent substances. The light is scattered differently from the beam by the particles and is captured by sensors in line and perpendicular to the light beam. These microscopic particles are conjugated with fluorescent substances that, once excited, emit light of lower frequency than the light source. The emitted light is captured by sensors and the particles are analyzed according to fluctuations in brightness of each detector and/or fluorescence emission. The result of this process is the formation of images in real time for each cell fluorescence, scattering and transmission of light. A major problem of flow cytometry is to determine whether a subset of cells labeled with fluorochrome-conjugated monoclonal antibodies is positive or negative. Gains compensation should be determined and applied correctly, and controls should be conducted concisely with the adoption of a biological control, isotype control or Fluorescence Minus One (FMO). None of these controls are considered ideal, and must be chosen according the number of different labeling done, rarity of molecule expression on surface or intracellularly in certain cell subsets, overlap of wavelengths or unspecific binding of the fluorochrome-conjugated antibodies. Conclusion: due to its great potential, flow cytometry has been expanded to diverse fields of biological sciences, and is routinely used in clinical diagnostic, biotechnology, and basic and applied research.
Hipertensão arterial na infância e adolescência – prevalência no Brasil e fatores associados: uma revisão
Authors: PPinto Sônia Lopes , Silva Rita de Cássia Ribeiro
Published: September 2017

Introdução: a hipertensão arterial sistêmica é uma síndrome clínica multifatorial caracterizada pela elevação dos níveis tensionais, podendo estar associada a diversas alterações fisiopatológicas. Objetivo: o objetivo do presente estudo é determinar a prevalência de hipertensão arterial, além de contribuir com o conhecimento sobre os fatores associados desta na infância e adolescência. Metodologia: as informações foram identificadas por meio de levantamento bibliográfico nas bases de dados LILACS e MEDLINE, livros técnicos e publicações de organizações internacionais e nacionais de 2003 a 2013. Resultados: destaca-se, nesta revisão, o aumento da ocorrência de hipertensão na infância e na adolescência nos últimas décadas. A prevalência observada em todo o Brasil variou de 2 a 44%. Entre os fatores de exposição que explicam a ocorrência da hipertensão arterial, sobressai-se um leque de fatores demográficos, ambientais e genéticos. Os fatores ambientais são representados pelo estilo de vida, especialmente alimentação inadequada, inatividade física, além do uso abusivo do álcool e da prática do tabagismo. Estudos mostram que esses hábitos comportamentais correlacionam com excesso de peso, um dos principais preditores da hipertensão arterial. Conclusão: observou-se prevalência de hipertensão variando de 2,5% e 44,7% nos últimos dez anos e entre os fatores associados, o excesso de peso, é o fator mais importante relacionado com o desenvolvimento de pressão sanguínea elevada. Com relação aos outros fatores, são necessários mais estudos, especialmente em relação aos hábitos alimentares. Assim, ações voltadas para a promoção de estilo de vida saudável poderiam ser mais eficazes para a prevenção e o controle da hipertensão, especialmente nesta fase da vida.
Avaliação morfológica por imagem microtomográfica e histológica do reparo ósseo após o uso de biomaterial
Authors: Santos Anderson Cunha dos Cunha dos , Ribeiro Iorrana Índira dos Anjos , Rosa Fabiana Paim Paim
Published: September 2017

Introdução: aa avaliação do reparo de defeitos ósseos críticos com o uso de biomaterial, a microtomografia computadorizada (µCT) é um método de análise promissor e a histologia um método clássico. Quando a capacidade de reparo ósseo espontânea torna-se limitada, faz-se necessário o uso de biomaterial, a exemplo da hidroxiapatita (HA) que é utilizada por sua biocompatibilidade, similaridade com o tecido ósseo e por haver vários tipos disponíveis comercialmente. Objetivo: avaliar morfologicamente por µCT e por histologia o reparo ósseo após o uso de biomaterial. Metodologia: utilizou-se 15 ratos Wistar para compor os três grupos experimentais: HA implantado hidroxiapatita bovina (BioOss®), DV sem implantação de biomaterial e CI calvária íntegra, avaliados no ponto biológico de 15 dias. Resultados: a avaliação pela μCT permitiu observar a estrutura óssea e o preenchimento do defeito confeccionado. No grupo HA observou-se que o biomaterial e o osso são morfologicamente diferentes em densidade e microarquitetura. No grupo DV, o defeito apresenta contornos bem definidos e sem presença de tecido ósseo na área de preenchimento. No grupo CI visualizou-se a estrutura da calvária íntegra e suas suturas intracranianas. Em ambas as técnicas, as análises quantitativas da μCT e morfometria, observou-se que a calvária íntegra é a que possui maior percentual de tecido ósseo. Conclusão: ambas as técnicas mostraram-se complementares e foram eficazes para avaliar o reparo ósseo.
Efeito de dentifrícios clareadores na rugosidade superficial de resina composta nanoparticulada
Authors: Matta Mônica Cardoso da , Araújo Roberto Paulo Correia , Canedo Paula Mathias de Morais
Published: September 2017

Introdução: atualmente, existem no mercado diversos dentifrícios com composições e funções distintas para atender à crescente demanda estética por métodos clareadores. Determinadas empresas desenvolveram produtos de uso simplificado e acessíveis aos pacientes, como os dentifrícios clareadores. Alguns estudos relacionam o uso desses dentifrícios ao desgaste acentuado do esmalte dental e das restaurações com resinas compostas. Contudo, novos materiais são regularmente lançados no mercado, e a interação entre eles, assim como os seus efeitos, devem ser investigados. Objetivo: avaliar, in vitro, o efeito da escovação com dentifrícios clareadores sobre a rugosidade superficial de uma resina composta nanoparticulada. Material e Métodos: foram confeccionados 40 corpos-de-prova em resina composta (Filtek Z350XT, 3M ESPE), medindo 0,8mm de diâmetro e 0,2mm de espessura. Em seguida, os corpos-de-prova foram fixados na máquina de escovação e submetidos ao efeito individual de quatro dentifrícios clareadores, simulando um período de seis meses de aplicação. A rugosidade superficial (Ra) foi avaliada em dois momentos, antes e após a escovação, sendo que cada corpo de prova funcionou como o seu próprio controle.  Resultados: as médias dos valores obtidos foram tabuladas e submetidas ao teste estatístico ANOVA One Way, não apresentando diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos. Conclusão: nas condições em que foram realizados os ensaios, os dentifrícios clareadores avaliados in vitro revelaram graus de abrasividade semelhantes sobre a resina composta nanopartícula testada.
Reflexões sobre a prática clínica supervisionada em cursos de especialização em terapia cognitiva-comportamental no Brasil
Authors: Velasquez Michella Lopes , Thomé Célia Regina , Oliveira Irismar Reis de
Published: September 2017

Introdução: a qualidade do tratamento oferecido em psicoterapia tornou-se um grande desafio para cursos de graduação e pós-graduação em Psicologia. Dados promissores sugerem que a supervisão clínica tem um efeito positivo no desenvolvimento e manutenção de competências terapêuticas, reforçando a relevância de pesquisas sobre os elementos associados a uma maior eficácia na supervisão clínica, bem como a investigação de alternativas para disseminação da prática clínica supervisionada de boa qualidade. Objetivo: este estudo visa contribuir para uma maior compreensão do processo através do qual as competências terapêuticas são construídas na supervisão clínica em terapia cognitiva-comportamental (TCC) em cursos de formação no Brasil. Metodologia: todas as instituições regularmente credenciadas junto ao MEC que oferecem cursos de pós-graduação em TCC, que concordaram em participar do estudo, responderam a um questionário eletrônico, sem identificação do respondente, contendo questões gerais e específicas sobre a prática clínica supervisionada em TCC e sobre o desenvolvimento profissional do supervisor clínico. Resultado: todos os cursos oferecem sessões de supervisão em grupo, geralmente mensais, com pelo menos 75 horas da carga horária do curso dedicadas a supervisão clínica em 61,54% das instituições. A maioria dos participantes não relatou o uso de uma estrutura de supervisão. O desempenho dos alunos em supervisão é regularmente avaliado na maioria dos cursos (84,62%), embora a avaliação dos supervisores seja menos frequente e estruturada (53,85%), assim como a prática de meta-supervisão (23,08%). Conclusão: em tempos de prática baseada em evidências, dados mais robustos sobre a eficácia do treinamento de supervisores e seu impacto na construção e manutenção de habilidades terapêuticas podem apoiar futuras práticas para aumentar a qualidade do atendimento oferecido aos pacientes em todo o mundo.

 
Lower Mantle Substructure Embedded in the Farallon Plate: The Hess Conjugate
Authors: Ko Justin Yen‐Ting , Helmberger Don V. , Wang Huilin , Zhan Zhongwen
Published: September 2017

The morphologies of subducted remnants in the lower mantle are essential to our understanding of the history of plate tectonism. Here we image a high‐velocity slab‐like (HVSL) anomaly beneath the southeastern U.S. using waveforms from five deep earthquakes beneath South America recorded by the USArray. In addition to travel time anomalies, the multipathing of S and ScS phases at different distances are used to constrain the HVSL model. We jointly invert S and ScS traveltimes, amplitudes, and waveform complexities to produce a best fitting block model characterized by a rectangular shape with a 2.5% S wave velocity increase and tapered edges. While the Farallon slab is expected to dip primarily eastward, the HVSL structure apparently dips 40° to 50° to the SE and appears to be related to the eclogitized Hess conjugate.
CaSiO3 Perovskite May Cause Electrical Conductivity Jump in the Topmost Lower Mantle
Authors: Fei Hongzhan , Huang Rong , Yang Xiaozhi
Published: September 2017

The electrical conductivity of CaSiO3 perovskite was measured in situ between 17–24 GPa and 1300–2000 K using a multianvil apparatus and Solartron 1260 Impedance/Gain‐Phase Analyzer in the frequency range of 107–1 Hz. The activation energies are 95–100 and 100–120 kJ/mol, and the activation volumes are 0.06 ± 0.08 and −0.46 ± 0.03 cm3/mol, at 1300–1800 and 1800–2000 K, respectively. Conduction under lower mantle conditions may be dominated by the ionic diffusion of oxygen. The electrical conductivity of CaSiO3 perovskite is higher than that of bridgmanite, majoritic garnet, and ferropericlase, the main constituents of the topmost lower mantle. Therefore, CaSiO3‐perovsktie may significantly contribute to the electrical structure of the topmost lower mantle in spite of its relatively small volume proportion.
Sabermetrics
Authors: Albert J.
Published: September 2017

Sabermetrics is the scientific study of the game of baseball. This article provides an introduction to the game of baseball and the statistical information that is used to measure the performance of players and teams. One remarkable aspect of baseball is the wide variety of data collected, which has facilitated the development of new measurements of performance. The statistical literature in baseball is reviewed.
Instrumental Variables in Health Services Research
Authors: Newhouse Joseph P.
Published: September 2017

The technique of instrumental variables (IV) was developed by econometricians in the 1930s and 1940s to address situations in which an explanatory variable or variables are correlated with the error term in an ordinary least squares regression. In such a case, ordinary least squares (OLS) methods produce inconsistent estimates of the regression coefficients. Because economists can rarely conduct controlled experiments, this situation arises frequently in analyses of economic data. As a result, IV methods have been widely used – some might say overused – in applied econometrics and are described in virtually every econometrics text. In the 1990s, IV methods began to be used in health services research to analyze observational data, where they have achieved a modicum of popularity. In this article, I first give an intuitive explanation of the method and then sketch it more formally. I next describe an actual example and conclude by emphasizing the limitations of the IV estimator.
Human Genome Project
Authors: Sebastiani Paola , Palmer Lyle J.
Published: September 2017

The Human Genome Project generated the first draft of the human DNA sequence and the first comprehensive catalog of DNA polymorphisms that contain the key to decipher the genetic basis of common and complex diseases. Advances in technology and statistical methods have produced a wealth of genetic information that may translate genetics discoveries into precision medicine tools. The challenge of analyzing massive genetic data stimulated the development of innovative statistical methods, including genome‐wide principal component analysis to adjust genetic association for confounding by ethnicity, and imputation methods that have greatly facilitated analysis across different studies. The unique challenges of these analyses also fostered a new culture of collaboration, data sharing, scientific rigor, and interdisciplinary research that greatly benefited the field of biostatistics.
Causal‐Comparative Study
Authors: Busk Patricia L.
Published: September 2017

A nonexperimental design that is employed to explore cause‐and‐effect relationships is called
ex post facto
or causal‐comparative. The title
ex post facto
is applied to studies in which data are gathered retrospectively, whereas causal‐comparative is used when data are gathered from groups and the independent variable is not manipulated as in an experiment.
Analysis of Covariance: Nonparametric
Authors: Martin Keshia‐Lee
Published: September 2017

There are numerous benefits in adjusting an analysis for one or several covariates, but often, these benefits come at the price of having to make additional assumptions, such as distributional assumptions or assumptions regarding the relationship between a covariate and a response variable. For example, the validity of the popular analysis of covariance model is predicated on a variety of assumptions. Clearly, the need to make assumptions, or to restrict the results so that they apply only when these assumptions are true, is a weakness, and it would be preferable to reap the benefits of covariate adjustment without having to rely on unreasonable assumptions. There is a body of nonparametric covariate adjustment techniques that aim to allow for this. Specific techniques depend on the nature of the covariate (e.g., binary or continuous).
Confidence Intervals in Clinical Trials
Authors: Reiczigel Jenő
Published: September 2017

A confidence interval (CI) or interval estimate for an unknown parameterθis a “from–to” range calculated from the sample so that it containsθwith a high – usually 90%, 95%, or 99% – probability. CIs can be given for unknown population parameters such as the mean, variance, median, and proportion; model parameters such as a regression coefficient, odds ratio, and correlation coefficient; or functions of the abovementioned parameters such as the variance/mean ratio and the difference of two proportions or two means. In clinical studies, CIs are typically given for the mean or median treatment effect, proportion of cure, difference in these outcome measures comparing two treatments, and so on. Practically for anything for which an estimate from the sample is meaningful at all, a CI is also meaningful. For curves such as a regression line, ROC curve, or survival function, interval estimation results in a so‐called confidence band.
Binary Data and Quantal Response
Authors: Piegorsch Walter W.
Published: September 2017

Many forms of data occur as discrete values. One of the simplest forms of discrete data is a dichotomous indicator of whether or not an event has occurred, that is, a “success” or a “failure.” Such an outcome can be coded simply as either 1 or 0 – corresponding to success or failure – and we refer to this as a case of binary data. This article introduces methods for analyzing binary observations, with emphasis on basic models for describing such data.
National Security Risk Analysis
Authors: Wilson Alyson G. , Fronczyk Kassandra M.
Published: September 2017

Risk analysis provides a scientific basis for making decisions in the presence of uncertainty. It is an essential tool to identify, manage, communicate, and assess risks. Each of these steps is complex and requires careful thought. Risk assessment of rare events, particularly in the reliability arena, and/or decisions against an intelligent adversary are of significant importance in the national security context. For a quantitative assessment, there are a multitude of proposed frameworks in the literature. Given the need to leverage multiple sources of information and the general sparsity of data, these methods primarily follow the Bayesian paradigm. A brief introduction to the Bayesian approach is provided, along with notes and considerations for several quantitative risk assessment techniques.
Computationally Intensive Two‐Stage Designs for Clinical Trials
Authors: Shan Guogen , Wilding Gregory E. , Hutson Alan D.
Published: September 2017

Multiple‐stage designs are preferable in early‐phase clinical trials (e.g., Oncology trials) in order to allow a study to be stopped early to protect patients and reduce costs. Recently, adaptive designs have been developed and implemented in clinical trials to increase the effectiveness of a study by allowing it to be modified during the course of a trial based on the sequential information. This article focuses on designs for early‐phase clinical trials with a binary primary outcome. For such studies, exact approaches are often preferable in computing sample probabilities in order to guarantee the nominal level. For a multiple‐stage design, it becomes computationally intensive to compute error rates exactly when multiple groups are compared in a study. A naive search for an adaptive design without using integer‐based algorithms becomes infeasible owing to the numerous sizes of all possible designs. In this article, we review several recent developments in multiple‐stage designs and adaptive single‐arm two‐stage optimal designs.
Finite Difference Methods
Authors: Axelsson Owe
Published: September 2017

It is shown how difference methods lead to monotone operators with uniformly bounded inverses for which discretization error estimates for the solution and its derivatives can readily be derived. Higher order of accuracy can be achieved for sufficiently regular solutions by extrapolation or by the use of various higher order difference methods.

Properties of solutions of elliptic, parabolic, hyperbolic, and convection‐dominated convection–diffusion problems as well as positivity and continuous and discrete maximum principles of the solution are shown. Computational aspects of solving difference equations are discussed. Stable discretization of time‐dependent problems is shown for parabolic problems and hyperbolic problems of first and second order. Various discretization methods for convection‐dominated convection–diffusion problems, including method of characteristics, are presented.

Difference methods have their main advantages in that regular meshes can be used. To handle more general problems, adaptive mesh refinement and use of graded meshes are discussed. Use of local Green's functions and other examples of exact difference schemes are also presented.
Discrete Element Methods
Authors: Bićanić Nenad
Published: September 2017

This introductory chapter on the mathematical theory of finite element methods (FEMs) discusses its h‐version for elliptic boundary value problems in the displacement formulation. Topics addressed range froma prioritoa posteriorierror estimates and also include weak forms of elliptic PDEs, Galerkin schemes, finite element spaces, and adaptive local mesh refinement. Nonconformities and variational crimes as well as algorithmic aspects conclude the chapter.
Eradication of Multidrug‐Resistant Staphylococcal Infections by Light‐Activatable Micellar Nanocarriers in a Murine Model
Authors: Liu Yong , van der Mei Henny C. , Zhao Bingran , Zhai Yan , Cheng Tangjian , Li Yuanfeng , Zhang Zhenkun , Busscher Henk J. , Ren Yijin , Shi Linqi
Published: September 2017

Bacterial infections are mostly due to bacteria in their biofilm mode‐of‐growth, making them recalcitrant to antibiotic penetration. In addition, the number of bacterial strains intrinsically resistant to available antibiotics is alarmingly growing. This study reports that micellar nanocarriers with a poly(ethylene glycol) shell fully penetrate staphylococcal biofilms due to their biological invisibility. However, when the shell is complemented with poly(β‐amino ester), these mixed‐shell micelles become positively charged in the low pH environment of a biofilm, allowing not only their penetration but also their accumulation in biofilms without being washed out, as do single‐shell micelles lacking the pH‐adaptive feature. Accordingly, bacterial killing of multidrug resistant staphylococcal biofilms exposed to protoporphyrin IX‐loaded mixed‐shell micelles and after light‐activation is superior compared with single‐shell micelles. Subcutaneous infections in mice, induced with vancomycin‐resistant, bioluminescent staphylococci can be eradicated by daily injection of photoactivatable protoporphyrin IX‐loaded, mixed‐shell micelles in the bloodstream and light‐activation at the infected site. Micelles, which are not degraded by bacterial enzymes in the biofilm, are degraded in the liver and spleen and cleared from the body through the kidneys. Thus, adaptive micellar nanocarriers loaded with light‐activatable antimicrobials constitute a much‐needed alternative to current antibiotic therapies.
Recent Advances in Alternating Current‐Driven Organic Light‐Emitting Devices
Authors: Pan Yufeng , Xia Yingdong , Zhang Haijuan , Qiu Jian , Zheng Yiting , Chen Yonghua , Huang Wei
Published: September 2017

Organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs), typically operated with constant‐voltage or direct‐current (DC) power sources, are candidates for next‐generation solid‐state lighting and displays, as they are light, thin, inexpensive, and flexible. However, researchers have focused mainly on the device itself (e.g., development of novel materials, design of the device structure, and optical outcoupling engineering), and little attention has been paid to the driving mode. Recently, an alternative concept to DC‐driven OLEDs by directly driving devices using time‐dependent voltages or alternating current (AC) has been explored. Here, the effects of different device structures of AC‐driven OLEDs, for example, double‐insulation, single‐insulation, double‐injection, and tandem structure, on the device performance are systematically investigated. The formation of excitons and the dielectric layer, which are important to achieve high‐performance AC‐driven OLEDs, are carefully considered. The importance of gaining further understanding of the fundamental properties of AC‐driven OLEDs is then discussed, especially as they relate to device physics.
Progress and Perspective of Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction for Renewable Carbonaceous Fuels and Chemicals
Authors: Zhang Wenjun , Hu Yi , Ma Lianbo , Zhu Guoyin , Wang Yanrong , Xue Xiaolan , Chen Renpeng , Yang Songyuan , Jin Zhong
Published: September 2017

The worldwide unrestrained emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) has caused serious environmental pollution and climate change issues. For the sustainable development of human civilization, it is very desirable to convert CO2 to renewable fuels through clean and economical chemical processes. Recently, electrocatalytic CO2 conversion is regarded as a prospective pathway for the recycling of carbon resource and the generation of sustainable fuels. In this review, recent research advances in electrocatalytic CO2 reduction are summarized from both experimental and theoretical aspects. The referred electrocatalysts are divided into different classes, including metal–organic complexes, metals, metal alloys, inorganic metal compounds and carbon‐based metal‐free nanomaterials. Moreover, the selective formation processes of different reductive products, such as formic acid/formate (HCOOH/HCOO−), monoxide carbon (CO), formaldehyde (HCHO), methane (CH4), ethylene (C2H4), methanol (CH3OH), ethanol (CH3CH2OH), etc. are introduced in detail, respectively. Owing to the limited energy efficiency, unmanageable selectivity, low stability, and indeterminate mechanisms of electrocatalytic CO2 reduction, there are still many tough challenges need to be addressed. In view of this, the current research trends to overcome these obstacles in CO2 electroreduction field are summarized. We expect that this review will provide new insights into the further technique development and practical applications of CO2 electroreduction.
Detailed thermodynamics for analysis and design of Ranque‐Hilsch vortex tubes
Authors: O'Connell John P.
Published: September 2017

The Ranque‐Hilsch vortex tube is a device for continuously separating an inlet pressurized fluid stream into two outlet streams of warmer and cooler temperatures at lower pressures, with no moving parts and without any heat or work effects. It has been applied to cool or heat small systems where refrigeration is impractical. Studies of the fluid mechanics inside the tube have not fully established the flow structure that provides the separation. Thermodynamic energy and entropy balances giving relations among properties and the relative amounts of the three fluid streams have been examined to determine consistency among measured data along with sensitivity of the phenomena to tube configuration, measurement error, and properties. The strong response of the temperature separation to small variations in entropy generation is shown to limit the possibilities for generalized prediction of vortex tube behavior. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 64: 1067–1074, 2018
Grainyhead‐like 2 (GRHL2) regulates epithelial plasticity in pancreatic cancer progression
Authors: Nishino Hitoe , Takano Shigetsugu , Yoshitomi Hideyuki , Suzuki Kensuke , Kagawa Shingo , Shimazaki Reiri , Shimizu Hiroaki , Furukawa Katsunori , Miyazaki Masaru , Ohtsuka Masayuki
Published: September 2017

The epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and mesenchymal‐epithelial transition (MET) contribute to cancer metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We explored the role of grainyhead‐like 2 (GRHL2), a suppressor of EMT, in the progression of PDAC. Expressions of GRHL2 were assessed using surgically resected PDAC tissues by immunohistochemistry analysis, and in vitro using human and mouse PDAC cells. Effects on epithelial plasticity and stemness of GRHL2 were examined in vitro using liver metastatic PDAC cells (CFPAC‐1) with GRHL2 knockdown by specific siRNAs. GRHL2 has a significantly positive correlation with E‐cadherin and CD133 in 155 resected human primary PDAC tissues. GRHL2 is highly expressed in liver metastatic cells than in primary invasive cells of both human and mouse PDAC, accompanied by a positive correlation with E‐cadherin expression. GRHL2 knockdown CFPAC‐1 cells demonstrated morphological changes into mesenchymal appearances and reduced proliferation through EMT. Notably, knockdown studies followed by flow cytometry analysis for a subpopulation of CD133+ showed that GRHL2 facilitates CFPAC‐1 cells to maintain stem‐like characters including self‐renewal capacity and anoikis resistance. GRHL2 regulates epithelial plasticity along with stemness in PDAC, both of which are crucial for metastasis, implicating the possibility of GRHL2 as a therapeutic target for PDAC liver metastasis.
Covalent Functionalization of FeCo/Graphitic Shell Nanocrystals via 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition
Authors: Kim Da Jeong , Hong Yonghoon , Seo Yu Jeong , Yang Daehee , Lee Sung Woo , Gil Na‐Yeon , Moon Bongjin , Cha Hyuk‐Jin , Lee Gaehang , Seo Won Seok
Published: September 2017

Covalently functionalized water‐soluble FeCo/graphitic shell nanocrystals (f−FeCo/GC NCs) were synthesized via 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides generated in situ from sarcosine and glucose. The FeCo core has superparamagnetic properties at room temperature, and the graphitic shell exhibits near‐infrared optical absorbance. Acetylation of the hydroxyl groups on the f−FeCo/GC NCs gives doubly functionalized FeCo/GC (ff−FeCo/GC) NCs that are soluble only in organic solvents such as ethyl acetate. The f−FeCo/GC NCs were shown to be excellent T1 or T2 MRI contrast agents. Especially, due to the hydrophilic and compact surface functionalization, f−FeCo/GC NCs exhibit a doubled r1 relaxivity and half r2/r1 ratio compared to those of the non‐covalently PL‐PEG‐functionalized FeCo/GC NCs. This work shows not only the first synthesis of covalently functionalized highly water‐soluble metal NCs coated with a single‐layered graphitic shell, but also for the first time the MR enhancing properties of the covalently functionalized magnetic NCs.
Organometallic Ruthenium Nitrosyl Obtained by C–H Bond Activation – Photoinduced Delivery of Nitric Oxide and NO‐Mediated Antiproliferation Activity Studies
Authors: Kumar Rajan , Yadav Anjlika , Ratnam Anand , Kumar Sushil , Bala Manju , Sur Debpali , Narang Shikha , Singh Udai P. , Mandal Prabhat K. , Ghosh Kaushik
Published: September 2017

The azo dye methyl red, which has carboxylato and azo functional groups, was used as a ligand for the synthesis of the cyclometalated RuIIIcomplex [Ru(L1)(PPh3)2Cl] (1, L1H2= 2‐{[4‐(dimethylamino)phenyl]diazenyl}benzoic acid) through C–H bond activation. Complex1was treated with nitric oxide to afford the organometallic ruthenium nitrosyl complex [Ru(L2H)(PPh3)2(NO)Cl][ClO4] (1a, L2H = 2‐{[4‐(dimethylamino)‐3‐nitrophenyl]diazenyl}benzoic acid). The molecular structures of1·CH3OH and1a·CH3OH were determined by X‐ray crystallography. The diamagnetic complex1awithS= 0 ground state was studied by1H and31P NMR spectroscopy. In the nitrosyl complex, the coordinated NO is photolabile under UV and visible light, and the liberated NO was trapped by reduced myoglobin. The NO, photoreleased under visible light, was utilized in antiproliferation activity studies on human (A549, HEK293T, and HeLa) and mouse (NIH3T3) cancer cell lines.
Immobilization of Candida rugosa Lipase on Glutaraldehyde‐Activated Fe3O4@Chitosan as a Magnetically Separable Catalyst for Hydrolysis of Castor Oil
Authors: Zhao Ke , Chen Bang , Li Cong , Li Xing‐Fu , Li Ke‐Bin , Shen Ye‐Hua
Published: September 2017

In this study, the catalyzed hydrolysis of castor oil by Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) immobilized on glutaraldehyde‐activated magnetic Fe3O4@chitosan is investigated. Magnetic Fe3O4 is prepared by hydrothermal method and coated with chitosan (CS). Next, CRL is immobilized on Fe3O4@chitosan using glutaraldehyde as a cross‐linking reagent. The prepared Fe3O4@CS@CRL is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The response surface methodology (RSM) based on the Box–Behnken design is used to evaluate and optimize the hydrolysis reaction variables. The optimum reaction conditions for the hydrolysis of castor oil by the Fe3O4@CS@CRL heterogeneous catalyst are found to be a water/oil ratio of 1.60:1, pH of 7.05, reaction temperature of 34 °C, and lipase concentration of 3.27%; under these conditions, the hydrolysis conversion of castor oil reached 46.81%. Moreover, the immobilized lipase showed high stability with no appreciable loss in its activity after three consecutive cycles.

Practical Applications: RSM is found to be a useful technique for optimizing hydrolysis of castor oil. The high conversion of the hydrolysis of castor oil indicates that the Fe3O4@CS@CRL have potential to be used in preparing ricinoleic acid from castor oil. Ricinoleic acid have the potential to be used in printing ink as a pigment and dye disperser, plasticizers, surfactants, lubricants, and other valuable products.

Ricinoleic acid can be used in pigment and dye disperser in printing ink, sebacic acid, azelaic acid, heptaldehyde, plasticizers, surfactants, lubricants, and other valuable products. Hydrolysis of castor oil catalyzed by Candida rugosa lipase (CRL) immobilized on glutaraldehyde‐activated magnetic Fe3O4@chitosan is investigated. The response surface methodology (RSM) based on the Box–Behnken design is used to evaluate and optimize the hydrolysis reaction variables. Fe3O4@CS@CRL can be easily separated from the suspension using an external strong magnet. Fe3O4@CS@CRL have potential to be used in preparing ricinoleic acid from castor oil.
Enhancement of the Photovoltaic Properties of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells Using Y0.80Yb0.18Er0.02OF Nanorods
Authors: Wang Jiangli , You Xueqiu , Cao Shuohui , Lin Jianming , Wu Jihuai , Chen Zhong
Published: September 2017

The photoanode plays a critical role in influencing the performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In this work, Y0.80Yb0.18Er0.02OF nanorods (YYEOF NRs) are synthetized by a simple hydrothermal method and incorporated into the TiO2 film to form a bi‐layer photoanode consisting of nanoparticles (NPs) on the bottom and nanorods on top. Owing to the improved light collection efficiency and electron transport rate, the resultant YYEOF NRs are advantageous as photoanode dopants for DSSCs. Following assembly into an integrated DSSC, an enhanced photocurrent and power conversion efficiency (PCE) are observed. Benefiting from the p‐type doping effect of the YYEOF NRs, the photovoltage of the DSSCs is elevated. The cell performance can be maximized through optimization of the fraction of YYEOF NRs, and the results demonstrate that a promising PCE of 7.74 % is determined for the DSSC with 5 wt % YYEOF NRs, yielding 32.5 % enhancement in comparison to pristine TiO2 NPs‐based solar cells. This work provides a promising strategy to explore photoanode materials, which will lead to further efficiency improvements for solar cells.
In vitrocartilage construct generation from silk fibroin‐ chitosan porous scaffold and umbilical cord blood derived human mesenchymal stem cells in dynamic culture condition
Authors: Agrawal Parinita , Pramanik Krishna , Biswas Amit , Ku Patra Ranjan
Published: September 2017

Cartilage construct generation includes a scaffold with appropriate composition to mimic matrix of the damaged tissue on which the stem cells grow and differentiate. In this study, umbilical cord blood (UCB) derived human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) were seeded on freeze dried porous silk‐fibroin (SF)/chitosan (CS) scaffolds. Influence of static and dynamic (spinner flask bioreactor) culture conditions on the developing cartilage construct were studied byin‐vitrocharacterization for viability, proliferation, distribution, and chondrogenic differentiation of hMSCs over the scaffold. Constructs developed in spinner flask consisted of 62% live cells, and exhibited 543% more cell density at the core than constructs cultured in static system. Quantification of DNA and glycosaminoglycans accumulation after 21 days showed the progression of chondrogenic differentiation of hMSCs was higher in dynamic culture compared to static one. In constructs generated under dynamic condition, histology staining for proteoglycan matrix, and fluorescence staining for collagen‐II and aggrecan showed positive correlation between early and late stage chondrogenic markers, which was further confirmed by quantitative PCR analysis, showing low collagen‐I expression and highly expressed Sox9, collagen‐II and aggrecan. The present study demonstrated that construct generated by combining 3D SF/CS scaffold with UCB‐hMSCs under dynamic condition using spinner flask bioreactor can be used for cartilage tissue regeneration for future medical treatments. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 397–407, 2018.
Comparing the osteoconductive potential between tubular and cylindrical beta‐tricalcium phosphate scaffolds: An experimental study in rats
Authors: Sun Yu‐Xin , Zhang Jin‐Fang , Li Dong‐Ji , Wu Xiao‐Min , Xu Liang‐Liang , Pan Xiao‐Hua , Li Gang
Published: September 2017

Beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) has been widely used for bone regeneration for many years. However, there are few studies on the osteoconduction ability of different shaped β‐TCP scaffolds. In this study, we compared the osteoconductive potential between the tubular and cylindrical β‐TCP scaffolds in long bone defect animal model. The results showed that more regenerated bone and a better healing property were observed in tubular group than that in cylindrical group. By hematoxylin‐eosin staining, the central part of the callus was more compacted in tubular group. And moreover, the increased osteocalcin and osterix expression were found in tubular group, suggesting more vigorous regeneration of bone defect. These results demonstrated that tubular β‐TCP scaffold would be more benefit to promote bone regeneration, indicating that tubular β‐TCP scaffold has a good potential for long bone defect repair in clinical practice. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 1934–1940, 2018.