bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equipoise of recent estimated Down syndrome live births in Japan
Authors: Sasaki Aiko , Sago Haruhiko
Published: July 2019

To support people with Down syndrome (DS), it is essential to know and predict the number of live births of children with this condition. In this study, we estimated DS live birth rates on the basis of maternal age distribution and numbers of births in the general population, the maternal‐age specific chance for a live birth of a child with DS, and the prenatal diagnosis/termination rate. The total number of live births in Japan decreased to less than 1 million in 2016 and the percentage of women aged 35 years old or over giving birth has increased by sixfold. Prenatal genetic testing in Japan has gradually become more widespread, and 20% of all cases of DS were diagnosed prenatally in 2016. Meanwhile, the annual projected number of DS live births has remained steady at around 2,200 (22 per 10,000 births). In 2016, it was estimated that 70% of all DS babies were born to women of advanced maternal age (AMA). Given that Japan is facing a decreasing birth rate and an aging population, adoption of the practice of prenatal genetic testing for AMA has balanced the number of DS births over the last 7 years from 2010.
Bipyridine‐Assisted Assembly of Au Nanoparticles on Cu Nanowires To Enhance the Electrochemical Reduction of CO2
Authors: Fu Jiaju , Zhu Wenlei , Chen Ying , Yin Zhouyang , Li Yuyang , Liu Juan , Zhang Hongyi , Zhu Jun‐Jie , Sun Shouheng
Published: July 2019

We report a new strategy to prepare a composite catalyst for highly efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). The composite catalyst is made by anchoring Au nanoparticles on Cu nanowires via 4,4′‐bipyridine (bipy). The Au‐bipy‐Cu composite catalyzes the CO2RR in 0.1 m KHCO3 with a total Faradaic efficiency (FE) reaching 90.6 % at −0.9 V to provide C‐products, among which CH3CHO (25 % FE) dominates the liquid product (HCOO−, CH3CHO, and CH3COO−) distribution (75 %). The enhanced CO2RR catalysis demonstrated by Au‐bipy‐Cu originates from its synergistic Au (CO2 to CO) and Cu (CO to C‐products) catalysis which is further promoted by bipy. The Au‐bipy‐Cu composite represents a new catalyst system for effective CO2RR conversion to C‐products.
Effects of decoppering pretreatment on accelerated weathering behaviors of waste printed circuit boards powders reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Tian Shenghui , Luo Yuanfang , Ma Yuanbin , He Hui , Jia Demin , Zhang Ling , Chen Yong
Published: July 2019

Waste printed circuit boards powders (WPCBP), the critical by‐products in the dispose process of waste electrical and electronic equipment, were selected as reinforcing fillers in polypropylene (PP) composites, which brought forward a new way to reuse WPCBP for a sustainable world. However, the multivalent metals in WPCBP could accelerate the degradation of PP molecule chains. In this study, nitric acid was selected as copper removal to pretreat WPCBP, and most of the metals were removed after decoppering pretreatment, which was evidenced by X‐ray fluorescence (XRF). The ensuing compound was characterized by oxidation induction time, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and mechanical analysis. As expected, the accelerate weathering behaviors of PP composite with nitric acid treated WPCBP were substantially improved, for instance, the notched impact strength and tensile strength of untreated PP/WPCBP composite after 21 days thermal aging were just 0.85KJ/m2 and 9.3 MPa, while the PP composite with 6 wt % nitric acid‐treated WPCBP was 3.47KJ/m2 and 32.1 MPa. We envisage this facile strategy, that is, using proper concentration of nitric acid to pretreat WPCBP could improve the accelerate weathering properties of PP/WPCBP composites, which would broaden the potential applications of WPCBP in polymer compounds. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48224.
Modified cellulose nanocrystals enhancement to mechanical properties and water resistance of vegetable oil‐based waterborne polyurethane
Authors: Zhang Pingbo , Lu Yadong , Fan Mingming , Jiang Pingping , Dong Yuming
Published: July 2019

Environmentally friendly and lightweight silylated cellulose nanocrystal (SCNCs)/waterborne polyurethane (WPU) composite films that exhibit excellent mechanical properties and water resistance were prepared. The cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) of the filamentous structure were surface‐modified by γ‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) and then introduced into a castor oil‐based aqueous polyurethane (WPU) matrix by in situ polymerization. The morphology and silylation degree of CNCs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Fourier infrared transform spectroscopy at different APTES concentrations. The results showed that the surface of the nanocellulose crystal has the best silylation morphology and thermal stability with incorporation of 6 wt % APTES. The thermal stability, mechanical properties, surface morphology, and water resistance of the nanocomposites were investigated by TGA, tensile test, SEM and optical contact angle, water absorption test, and mechanical property test after immersed in water. It was found that the effective introduction of modified CNCs resulted in a significant increase in tensile strength at high levels, and the thermal stability and hydrophobicity of the material were improved simultaneously, reaching the percolation threshold at a 0.50 wt % SCNCs as determined theoretically. This study provided an approach to the design and development of surface‐modified CNCs/vegetable oil‐based polymer composites by using an appropriate concentration of silane coupling agent to modify CNCs and improve the compatibility between nanocellulose and vegetable oil‐based polymer matrices. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48228.
Adsorption behavior and shear degradation of ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight hydrolyzed polyacrylamide in a capillary flow
Authors: Sun Daxing , Wang Wuyi , Dong Kangxing , Jiang Minzheng , Zhou Dekai , Li Longqiu
Published: July 2019

Ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamides (HPAMs) are commonly used in polymer flooding to enhance oil recovery. However, the viscosity of the HPAM solution is susceptible to shear action. Viscosity change affects sweep range and displacement efficiency of the displacement fluid. Here, a macromolecular adsorption model in microcapillary is proposed to reveal the shear variation mechanism at low flow rates. The rheological behaviors of HPAMs with three different molecular weights are investigated using a stainless steel capillary. The shear rate distributions near contraction and within capillary are compared by numerical calculation using the laminar flow model. Experimental and numerical results show that the polymer solution was mechanically degraded at low flow rates, which is in agreement with the results predicted by the adsorption theory model. A new calculation method for the thickness of polymer adsorption layer at lower flow rates is proposed based on the adsorption model proposed in this study. It is found that the viscosity and adsorption of HPAM were changed with flow rate, and their changes are closely related to the displacement efficiency in the micropores of reservoirs. This study provides new perspectives for the selection of polymer injection flow rates and the water shutoff in reservoirs. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48270.
Estimating Flight Style of Early Eocene Stem Palaeognath BirdCalciavis grandei(Lithornithidae)
Authors: Torres Christopher R. , Norell Mark A. , Clarke Julia A.
Published: July 2019

Lithornithids are volant stem palaeognaths from the Paleocene‐Eocene. Except for these taxa and the extant neotropical tinamous, all other known extinct and extant palaeognaths are flightless. Investigation of properties of the lithornithid wing and its implications for inference of flight style informs understood locomotor diversity within Palaeognathae and may have implications for estimation of ancestral traits in the clade. Qualitative comparisons with their closest extant volant relatives, the burst‐flying tinamous, previously revealed skeletal differences suggesting lithornithids were capable of sustained flight, but quantitative work on wing morphology have been lacking. Until comparatively recently, specimens of lithornithids preserving wing feather remains have been limited. Here, we reconstruct the wing of an exceptionally preserved specimen of the Early Eocene lithornithidCalciavis grandeiand estimate body mass, wing surface area, and wing span. We then estimate flight parameters and compare our estimates with representatives from across Aves in a statistical framework. We predict that flight inC. grandeiwas likely marked by continuous flapping, and that lithornithids were capable of sustained flight and migratory behavior. Our results are consistent with previous hypotheses that the ancestor of extant Palaeognathae may also have been capable of sustained flight. Anat Rec, 303:1035–1042, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Smoking and pregnancy: Epigenetics and developmental origins of the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Rogers John M.
Published: July 2019

Maternal smoking causes lower birth weight, birth defects, and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. Epidemiological evidence over the past four decades has grown stronger and the adverse outcomes attributed to maternal smoking and secondhand smoke exposure have expanded. This review presents findings of latent and persistent metabolic effects in offspring of smoking mothers like those observed in studies of maternal undernutrition during pregnancy. The phenotype of offspring of smoking mothers is like that associated with maternal undernutrition. Born smaller than offspring of nonsmokers, these children have increased risk of being overweight or obese later. Plausible mechanisms include in utero hypoxia, nicotine‐induced reductions in uteroplacental blood flow, placental toxicity, or toxic growth restriction from the many toxicants in tobacco smoke. Studies have reported increased risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and hypertension although the evidence here is weaker than for overweight/obesity. Altered DNA methylation has been consistently documented in smoking mothers' offspring, and these epigenetic alterations are extensive and postnatally durable. A causal link between altered DNA methylation and the phenotypic changes observed in offspring remains to be firmly established, yet the association is strong, and mediation analyses suggest a causal link. Studies examining expression patterns of affected genes during childhood development and associated health outcomes should be instructive in this regard. The adverse effects of exposure to tobacco smoke during pregnancy now clearly include permanent metabolic derangements in offspring that can adversely affect life‐long health.
The importance of early phonics improvements for predicting later reading comprehension
Authors: Double Kit S. , McGrane Joshua A. , Stiff Jamie C. , Hopfenbeck Therese N.
Published: July 2019

The role of phonics instruction in early reading development has been the subject of significant conjecture. Recently, England implemented a phonics screening check to assess the phonetic decoding of 6‐year‐old students, to ensure that all students master this foundational literacy skill and attain adequate phonemic awareness in the early years of primary schooling. Students who fail this check are obliged to retake the assessment the following year. In this article, we compare the performance of students who initially pass this check (pass) and students who fail the original assessment but pass the retaken assessment (fail–pass), with students who fail both the original and retaken assessments (fail–fail). Using data from the Key Stage 1 assessment of reading and the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS), we examined the reading comprehension performance of these students approximately 1 and 4 years after their first phonics screening. The results suggested that fail–pass students performed substantially better than fail–fail students, even after performance on the initial phonics check was controlled for. While fail–pass students do not appear to entirely catch up with pass students in reading comprehension, their relatively better performance underscores the importance of intervening for those students who are identified as having problems with phonetic decoding to increase their likelihood of success at reading comprehension in later schooling.
Simple methods for the estimation and sensitivity analysis of principal strata effects using marginal structural models: Application to a bone fracture prevention trial
Authors: Uemura Yukari , Taguri Masataka , Kawahara Takuya , Chiba Yasutaka
Published: July 2019

In randomized clinical trials, it is often of interest to estimate the effect of treatment on quality of life (QOL), in addition to those on the event itself. When an event occurs in some patients prior to QOL score assessment, investigators may compare QOL scores between patient subgroups defined by the event after randomization. However, owing to postrandomization selection bias, this analysis can mislead investigators about treatment efficacy and result in paradoxical findings. The recent Japanese Osteoporosis Intervention Trial (JOINT‐02), which compared the benefits of a combination therapy for fracture prevention with those of a monotherapy, exemplifies the case in point; the average QOL score was higher in the combination therapy arm for the unfractured subgroup but was lower for the fractured subgroup. To address this issue, principal strata effects (PSEs), which are treatment effects estimated within subgroups of individuals stratified by potential intermediate variable, have been discussed in the literature. In this paper, we describe a simple procedure for estimating the PSEs using marginal structural models. This procedure utilizes SAS code for the estimation. In addition, we present a simple sensitivity analysis method for examining the resulting estimates. The analyses of JOINT‐02 data using these methods revealed that QOL scores were higher in the combination therapy arm than in the monotherapy arm for both subgroups.
Prediction model and web-based risk calculator for postoperative ileus after loop ileostomy closure
Authors: Garfinkle R , Filion K B , Bhatnagar S , Sigler G , Banks A , Letarte F , Liberman S , Brown C J , Boutros M
Published: July 2019

Background

Postoperative ileus (POI) is a significant complication after loop ileostomy closure given both its frequency and impact on the patient. The purpose of this study was to develop and externally validate a prediction model for POI after loop ileostomy closure.

Methods

The model was developed and validated according to the TRIPOD checklist for prediction model development and validation. The development cohort included consecutive patients who underwent loop ileostomy closure in two teaching hospitals in Montreal, Canada. Candidate variables considered for inclusion in the model were chosen a priori based on subject knowledge. The final prediction model, which modelled the 30-day cumulative incidence of POI using logistic regression, was selected using the highest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) criterion. Model calibration was assessed using the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test. The model was then validated externally in an independent cohort of similar patients from the University of British Columbia.

Results

The development cohort included 531 patients, in whom the incidence of POI was 16·8 per cent. The final model included five variables: age, ASA fitness grade, underlying pathology/treatment, interval between ileostomy creation and closure, and duration of surgery for ileostomy closure (AUC 0·68, 95 per cent c.i. 0·61 to 0·74). The model demonstrated good calibration (P = 0·142). The validation cohort consisted of 216 patients, and the incidence of POI was 15·7 per cent. On external validation, the model maintained good discrimination (AUC 0·72, 0·63 to 0·81) and calibration (P = 0·538).

Conclusion

A prediction model was developed for POI after loop ileostomy closure and included five variables. The model maintained good performance on external validation.
Organization and management theories in environmental management systems research: A systematic literature review
Authors: Todaro Niccolò Maria , Daddi Tiberio , Testa Francesco , Iraldo Fabio
Published: July 2019

Environmental management systems have attracted considerable attention from organizational and management scholars, owing to their widespread adoption in most industry sectors. Despite the extensive empirical literature, academic research on ISO 14001 and Environmental Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) remains characterized by a technical and pragmatic connotation and scarce theoretical contribution. As this research field approaches maturity, theoretical elaboration is crucial for assessing the current state of knowledge and identifying pathways for future research. The main objective of the paper is to scrutinize the academic literature on standard‐based environmental management, with a focus on identifying organizational and management theories that contributed to the development of the field in the last decades. By critically analyzing 55 papers, the study points out eight dominant theoretical frameworks, mostly pertaining to the field of strategic management. The paper provides an in‐depth analysis of the objectives and findings of each study in the light of its theory of reference in order to contribute insights on the current state of theoretical elaboration of standard‐based environmental management systems research.
‘I'm Here as a Social Worker’: A Qualitative Study of Immigration Status Issues and Safeguarding Children in Private Fostering Arrangements in the UK
Authors: Wells Karen
Published: July 2019

Private fostering of non‐citizen children in the UK has become a focus of child protection social work since the Laming report into the death of Victoria Climbié. This paper reports on a qualitative study that aimed to understand children's experiences of private fostering and social work practice. The study involved interviews with social workers and privately fostered children, reviews of advice line calls to Children and Families Across Borders and a review of safeguarding reports from London boroughs. It found that many children who present as ‘privately fostered’ have been in effect abandoned by their parents and are living with strangers. While the homes that they live in may be safe, insecure immigration status renders children vulnerable and, if not regularised, will lead to complicated and stalled transitions to adulthood. The key findings of this study are that children whose parents are not resident in the UK are treated as privately fostered, but the underlying premise of private fostering legislation, which is that the parent retains meaningful responsibility for the child, is often not in place.

‘Reports on a qualitative study that aimed to understand children's experiences of private fostering and social work practice’

Key Practitioner Messages

Privately fostered children may have insecure immigration status.

Social workers should consider regularising immigration status for privately fostered children as part of safeguarding.

If a child's parents are not resident in the UK, social workers should consider whether the local authority has a duty to make arrangements for him/her to have a safe home.
Engineering Metal–Organic Framework Catalysts for C−C and C−X Coupling Reactions: Advances in Reticular Approaches from 2014–2018
Authors: Kousik Shravan , Velmathi Sivan
Published: July 2019

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of crystalline porous materials that have been actively used for several industrial and synthetic applications. MOFs are spatially and geometrically extrapolated coordination polymers with intriguing properties such as tunable porosity and dimensionality. In terms of their catalytic efficiency, MOFs combine the easy recoverability of heterogeneous catalysts with the increased selectivity of biological catalysts. It is therefore not surprising that a lot of work on optimizing MOF catalysts for organic transformations has been carried out over the past decade. In this review, recent developments in MOF catalysis are summarized, with special attention being paid to C−C, C−N, and C−O coupling reactions. The influence of pore size, pore environment, and load on catalytic activity is described. Post‐synthetic stabilization techniques and host–guest interactions in caged MOF scaffolds are detailed. Mechanistic aspects pertaining to the use of MOFs in asymmetric heterogeneous catalysis are highlighted and categorized.
Ressourceneffiziente Nutzung von Wasser in Anlagen zur Serienlackierung von Automobilkarosserien
Authors: Fröhlich Georg , Halbartschlager Johann
Published: July 2019

In PKW‐Serienlackieranlagen durchläuft jede Karosserie mehrere nasschemische Prozesseinheiten wie Reinigen, Konversionsbeschichten und Elektrotauchlackieren. Derartige Oberflächenbehandlungsprozesse müssen in Bezug auf Qualität, Kosteneinsparung und Umweltverträglichkeit immer höheren Ansprüchen genügen. Neben dem effizienten Umgang mit Energie kommt der Schonung von Wasserressourcen eine Schlüsselrolle zu, wofür sowohl die Integration bestehender als auch die Entwicklung neuer Technologien zur Prozessbadpflege wesentliche Kernelemente darstellen. In diesem Beitrag wird der Einsatz verschiedener Technologien nach dem Stand von Wissenschaft und Technik diskutiert.
Charge Transport through Peptides in Single‐Molecule Electrical Measurements
Authors: Zheng Haining , Jiang Feng , He Runze , Yang Yang , Shi Jia , Hong Wenjing
Published: July 2019

Charge transport across the peptide chains is one of the vital processes in the biological systems, so understanding their charge transport properties is an indispensable prerequisite to explain the complex biochemical phenomenon. Here, we review the charge transport mechanism, the influence of the special groups and the experimental conditions on the charge transport through the peptide backbone by employing the single‐molecule electrical measurements. Besides, we further review the recent progresses in charge transport properties of supramolecular interaction among the adjacent peptide chains. Finally, we discuss some experimental and theoretical contradictions existing in the charge transport through peptides and provide new inspiration for the future development of the bioelectronics at the single‐molecule scale.
In silico study of vessel and stent‐graft parameters on the potential success of endovascular aneurysm repair
Authors: Hemmler André , Lutz Brigitta , Reeps Christian , Gee Michael W.
Published: July 2019

The variety of stent‐graft (SG) design variables (eg, SG type and degree of SG oversizing) and the complexity of decision making whether a patient is suitable for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) raise the need for the development of predictive tools to assist clinicians in the preinterventional planning phase. Recently, some in silico EVAR methods have been developed to predict the deployed SG configuration. However, only few studies investigated how to assess the in silico EVAR outcome with respect to EVAR complication likelihoods (eg, endoleaks and SG migration). Based on a large literature study, in this contribution, 20 mechanical and geometrical parameters (eg, SG drag force and SG fixation force) are defined to evaluate the quality of the in silico EVAR outcome. For a cohort of n = 146 realizations of parameterized vessel and SG geometries, the in silico EVAR results are studied with respect to these mechanical and geometrical parameters. All degrees of SG oversizing in the range between 5% and 40% are investigated continuously by a computationally efficient parameter continuation approach. The in silico investigations have shown that the mechanical and geometrical parameters are able to indicate candidates at high risk of postinterventional complications. Hence, this study provides the basis for the development of a simulation‐based metric to assess the potential success of EVAR based on engineering parameters.
Corporate social responsibility engagement and firm performance in Asia Pacific: The role of enterprise risk management
Authors: Naseem Tahira , Shahzad Faisal , Asim Ghazanfar Ali , Rehman Ijaz Ur , Nawaz Faisal
Published: July 2019

We examine a channel through which corporate social responsibly affects firm performance. More specifically, we modeled the mediating role of enterprise risk management between corporate social responsibility and firm performance. We use the weighted average of environmental, social, and governance scores (as a proxy of corporate social responsibility) extracted from DataStream of Thomson Reuters‐ASSET4. Drawing on the stakeholder theory and using a large sample of 1021 Asia Pacific firms throughout 2006–2016, we show that corporate social responsibly is positively associated with firm performance. Our results suggest that corporate social responsibly is linked to enterprise risk management. However, the effect of corporate social responsibly on firm performance is both direct and indirect. We provide evidence that enterprise risk management partially mediates the relationship between corporate social responsibility and firm performance. We account for the issue of endogeneity and use alternative measures of firm performance for a robustness check. The findings offer important implications of socially responsible business processes through leveraging on the significance of enterprise risk management.
Evaluation of Deep Learning Strategies for Nucleus Segmentation in Fluorescence Images
Authors: Caicedo Juan C. , Roth Jonathan , Goodman Allen , Becker Tim , Karhohs Kyle W. , Broisin Matthieu , Molnar Csaba , McQuin Claire , Singh Shantanu , Theis Fabian J. , Carpenter Anne E.
Published: July 2019

Identifying nuclei is often a critical first step in analyzing microscopy images of cells and classical image processing algorithms are most commonly used for this task. Recent developments in deep learning can yield superior accuracy, but typical evaluation metrics for nucleus segmentation do not satisfactorily capture error modes that are relevant in cellular images. We present an evaluation framework to measure accuracy, types of errors, and computational efficiency; and use it to compare deep learning strategies and classical approaches. We publicly release a set of 23,165 manually annotated nuclei and source code to reproduce experiments and run the proposed evaluation methodology. Our evaluation framework shows that deep learning improves accuracy and can reduce the number of biologically relevant errors by half. © 2019 The Authors. Cytometry Part A published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
Two‐Dimensional Light Scattering Anisotropy Cytometry for Label‐Free Classification of Ovarian Cancer Cells via Machine Learning
Authors: Su Xuantao , Yuan Tao , Wang Zhiwen , Song Kun , Li Rongrong , Yuan Cunzhong , Kong Beihua
Published: July 2019

We develop a single‐mode fiber‐based cytometer for the obtaining of two‐dimensional (2D) light scattering patterns from static single cells. Anisotropy of the 2D light scattering patterns of single cells from ovarian cancer and normal cell lines is investigated by histograms of oriented gradients (HOG) method. By analyzing the HOG descriptors with support vector machine, an accuracy rate of 92.84% is achieved for the automatic classification of these two kinds of label‐free cells. The 2D light scattering anisotropy cytometry combined with machine learning may provide a label‐free, automatic method for screening of ovarian cancer cells, and other types of cells. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
An energy sensitive system framework for cloud robotic network
Authors: Guo Yu , Mi Zhenqiang , Yang Yang , Yan Jiangbao , Obaidat Mohammad
Published: July 2019

Cloud robotic network (CRN) is an extension of the traditional robots, and its important significance is to use the Internet and cloud computing to overcome the limitations of single robot and enhance its computing power. As the core technology of CRN, how to achieve the full potential of computation off‐loading is a critical issue. Starting from the basic models of CRN, this paper studies the network architecture and the computation off‐loading method to solve this problem. Firstly, a relatively detailed system model is designed based on the characteristics of CRN to provide theoretical and quantitative basis for subsequent research. Then, based on the theory of connected dominating set, a distributed CDS construction algorithm PCDS is proposed, which provides a virtual backbone with more power for the network. Finally, an energy sensitive computation off‐loading method is proposed to improve the lifetime of the whole network while ensuring the execution time and energy loss of computational tasks. Simulation results show that the proposed framework can effectively improve the performance of CRN and prolong the lifetime to a certain extent.
High‐reliability grid architecture supporting discretionary and efficient communication between ONUs in metro‐access optical network
Authors: Shao Qi , Zhao Yujing , Chen Yuanyuan , Gan Chaoqin
Published: July 2019

Direct communication of optical network units (ONUs) is an important function in metro‐access optical network. In this paper, a grid architecture supporting discretionary and efficient communication between ONUs is proposed. The grid architecture is built by using two interconnecting fibers to connect every two ONUs; this can give protection to every ONU by four ONUs. Additionally, the network reliability can be improved greatly. Grid topology of ONUs leads to their discretionary direct communication. In this topology, direct communication signal can be transmitted from one ONU to another ONU directly, rather than being returned to remote node central office. Also, the efficiency of direct communication can be improved remarkably with the proposed architecture. Finally, the performance analyses and the simulation results verify the feasibility of the proposed architecture. When the n reaches to 10, the reliability of downstream and direct communication signals is all larger than 99.993%.
Preparation of Zn(FexGa1‐x)2O4 Solid Solutions as Photocatalyst for CO2 Reduction under Simulated Solar‐Light Irradiation
Authors: Li Qiaoqi , Zhang Lili , Tang Chao , Yin Jingzhou
Published: July 2019

A series of Zn(FexGa1‐x)2O4 solid solutions were synthesized by using a sol‐gel method, and their photocatalytic CO2 reduction performance was investigated under simulated solar‐light irradiation. The content ratio of Fe3+ and Ga3+ not only greatly determined the light‐harvesting capability of Zn(FexGa1‐x)2O4 in the ultraviolet and visible‐light regions, but also regulated the positions of the VB‐top and CB‐bottom potentials, ultimately greatly affecting the photocatalytic capabilities. ZnFe0.1Ga1.9O4, the optimum Fe3+ content isomorphism presented the maximum CH4 formation rate of 6.1 µmol/h at 30 °C among the Zn(FexGa1‐x)2O4 solid solutions.
Model System Supported Impedance Simulation of Composite Electrodes
Authors: Opitz A. K. , Gerstl M. , Bram M.
Published: July 2019

Current research on fuel electrodes of solid oxide cells (SOCs) is done either on model‐type pattern electrodes or by interpretation of impedance spectra measured on “real” porous paste electrodes. However, results obtained by both methods are not always straightforward to compare. To bridge this gap, in this study impedance spectra of 3D porous composite electrodes with a well‐defined geometry are simulated using elementary parameters from model‐type experiments. By independent variation of these elementary parameters, it is possible to analyze the influence of the individual elementary processes on the overall electrode performance without the issue of changing its microstructure, which usually occurs when changing materials in case of real porous electrodes. The obtained results identify the electrochemical reaction resistance as the parameter with the highest impact on the polarization resistance of porous electrodes. This study thus provides a basis for a knowledge‐based improvement of existing and novel composite fuel electrodes.

In addition, the developed transmission line model is used for critically examining the common method of deconvolution of impedance data measured on real porous composite electrodes, which often relies on the assumption of elementary processes being represented by a serial connection of simple R||C elements.
Effect of heat treatment temperature on CO2 capture of nitrogen‐enriched porous carbon fibers
Authors: Wang Xue‐Fei , Xiong Long , Li Li , Zhong Jun‐Jun
Published: July 2019

Porous carbon fibers (PCFs) were prepared from porous polyacrylonitrile fibers by cross‐linking, oxidation, and carbonization. X‐ray diffraction patterns revealed that graphite structures as well as disordered carbon coexisted in the PCFs. Nitrogen content was more than 15.3 wt% with the variation of oxidation temperature, and a maximum value was obtained at 275°C. Nitrogen was quickly released with carbonization temperature. Compared with the fiber prepared at elevated carbonization temperatures, those owning high nitrogen contents deserved better carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption performance in the simulated flue gas environment (10% CO2/90% N2). The CO2 adsorption had a better relationship with nitrogen content rather than specific surface area and pore volumes. Especially, nitrogen was very useful to enhance the CO2 adsorption of the fibers with low microporosity. The heat of CO2 adsorption was in the range of 39.8–54.6 kJ mol−1, which indicated good selectivity of CO2 adsorption. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Low‐carbon economy transformation performance evaluation and spatial trends in China: a provincial aspect
Authors: Zhao Qiaozhi , Yan Qingyou , Tian Jinyu , Wang Haoran
Published: July 2019

Regional heterogeneity during low‐carbon economy development among provinces in China should be considered with more concerns by central government. Spatial coordination can bring more opportunities for underdeveloped provinces. Under this background, provincial low‐carbon economy transformation performance is evaluated during 2000–2016 and spatial characters are analyzed to supply detailed development information. Based on parametric input–output evaluation model and linear programming method, provincial low‐carbon economy transformation performance is evaluated. Spatial analysis methods such as Moran index, Moran scatter diagram, and Markov chain are implemented to analyze their spatial characters and dynamic trends. Main results are as follows: First, linear programing supplies reliable parameter results to evaluate the transformation performance. Mean value rises during 2000−2011 and there is a slight downward trend during 2013−2016. Economy transformation performance is still at lower medium level for most provinces nowadays and there is a long way to go further. Second, according to Markov chain results, more than 90% provinces exist as state self‐locking and less than 10% may exist as state jumping. Third, spatial correlation exists among provinces and ‘lower−lower’ type dominates with respect to low‐carbon economy transformation performance. They are mainly underdeveloped provinces in northwestern China. Absorbing greener production technology is the best choice for them. Yangtze River Delta provinces such as Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang are of ‘higher–higher’ type. Regional cooperatives can exert lots of potentials and are beneficial to stimulate transformation performance. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma with insufficient radical dose to the primary site in the intensity‐modulated radiotherapy era
Authors: Lu Tianzhu , Xie Xingyun , Guo Qiaojuan , Zhan Shenghua , Lin Cheng , Lin Shaojun , Zhang Yu , Zong Jingfeng , Pan Jianji
Published: July 2019

Background

It was reported that reduced radiotherapy is feasible for children with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and papilloma virus‐positive oropharyngeal cancer. Therefore, we performed this study to explore the prognosis of reduced‐dose radiation in adult with NPC.

Methods

Between 2004 and 2013, we retrospectively analyzed 19 patients histologically diagnosed with NPC, who received <66 Gy radiation therapy. Ten patients receiving <54 Gy to the primary site were group A. Nine patients receiving ≥54 Gy were group B.

Results

Thirteen patients received induction chemotherapy (IC) for two or three cycles. In group A, the 5‐year overall survival (OS) was 50.0%. For group B, the 5‐year OS, locoregional relapse‐free survival, progression‐free survival, and distant metastasis‐free survival were 88.9%, 100.0%, 88.9%, and 88.9%. Group B had a better prognosis than group A on OS (88.9% vs 50.0%, P = .03).

Conclusion

Patients receiving ≥54 Gy but <66 Gy with IC achieved good local control and long‐term survival.
Co‐creating a program for teams to maintain and reflect on their flexibility
Authors: van Gool Frank W.R. , Bierbooms Joyce J.P.A. , Bongers Inge M.B. , Janssen Richard T.J.M.
Published: July 2019

To prevent rigidity within teams in health care and to support teams in detecting early warning signs of decreasing flexibility, a program has been co‐created in collaboration with mental healthcare teams. This program is intended to systematically monitor team behavior, and by doing so to facilitate team intervention. We aim to lay foundations for the further development of methods that can help teams to recognize and respond to processes going on under the surface.

This paper introduces the program to the reader; and describes its premises and the co‐creation process, leading to a program of nine steps. Then, it describes the application of the program within a team, what a team needs to use the program, and whether the nine steps are sufficient.

This pilot shows that the program is a helpful framework within which teams can talk about rigidity, define indicators of their flexibility, and think about appropriate actions and interventions for maintaining or restoring their flexibility. Team ownership and the customizability of the program are important attributes. The program appears to provide a useful framework that helps a team to observe and discuss processes. Team members become aware of the indicators of their team and make their goals explicit.
A randomised controlled trial of the Adult Resilience Program: A universal prevention program
Authors: Games Natalie , Thompson Claire L. , Barrett Paula
Published: July 2019

A randomised, waitlist controlled, trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of the Adult Resilience Program (ARP), a universal prevention social–emotional programme for adolescents and adults, on self‐reported depression, anxiety, stress, resilience, and self‐esteem. Seventy‐six students from a private university in Singapore were randomised to the ARP group or wait‐list control (WLC) group and assessments were conducted at pre‐intervention (T1), post‐intervention (T2), and 6‐month follow‐up (T3). A 2 × 3 mixed between‐within groups multivariate analysis of variance with the between‐group factor of Group (ARP, WLC) and the within‐group factor of time (T1, T2, and T3) and the dependent variables of depression, anxiety, stress, resilience and self‐esteem, with age and stage of degree as covariates showed a significant decrease over time in depression (ηp2 = .20), and anxiety (ηp2 = .06). There was a significant decrease in stress for the ARP only from T1 to T2 (ηp2 = .16). While there was a significant interaction of Time and Group for resilience (ηp2 = .07), there was no significant change in resilience for the ARP group alone. The results provide preliminary support that the ARP can impart essential skills that can have a positive impact on mental health in university students.
INFLUENCE OF A FIXED WATER DISPERSION DEVICE ON JET DISPERSION AND RANGE FROM AN IMPACT SPRINKLER
Authors: Li Hong , Issaka Zakaria , Jiang Yue , Tang Pan , Chen Chao
Published: July 2019

Fixed water dispersion breaks up and disperses the jet issuing from the nozzle of an impact sprinkler continuously upon impingement. The performance of an impact sprinkler is influenced by the spatial distribution of the dispersed droplets. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of a fixed water dispersion device on jet dispersion and range from an impact sprinkler. A series of experiments were conducted using high‐speed photography technology to capture images for analysis. A model of the jet was developed and applied in a MatLab computation program to determine the initial jet breakup lengths and the angles of dispersion. Comparison of the calculated values with other formulas indicated an average relative error of less than 10%. The spreading angle was wider with increased working pressure and insertion depth in the jet stream from the device. A semi‐empirical formula of spray range for the test sprinkler with a fixed water dispersion device was established through curve fitting. Because the new formula depends on the angle of dispersion, it may be useful as a simple and quick way to estimate the dispersion and uniformity of water distribution within the area irrigated. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Different paths and same destinations? An analysis of the convergence in Internet usage patterns between different age groups
Authors: Barrantes Roxana , Vargas Eduardo
Published: July 2019

The present article delves into the understanding of the digital gap that divides the younger age groups from those who are older, specifically the young (17‐30), adults (31‐45), mature adults (46‐60), and older adults (61‐75). The analysis carried out in three capital cities of Latin America (Buenos Aires, Lima, and Guatemala City) finds that there is a pattern of convergence in the trajectory of Internet appropriation of users belonging to different age groups. However, the gap between the younger groups and the older group does not close completely, even after several years of experience using the Internet. Likewise, it is observed that the adoption of more sophisticated activities on the Internet is conditioned by characteristics specific to each age group.
Feature vector clustering molecular pairs in computer simulations
Authors: Pei Han‐Wen , Laaksonen Aatto
Published: July 2019

A clustering framework is introduced to analyze the microscopic structural organization of molecular pairs in liquids and solutions. A molecular pair is represented by a representative vector (RV). To obtain RV, intermolecular atom distances in the pair are extracted from simulation trajectory as components of the key feature vector (KFV). A specific scheme is then suggested to transform KFV to RV by removing the influence of permutational molecular symmetry on the KFV as the predicted clusters should be independent of possible permutations of identical atoms in the pair. After RVs of pairs are obtained, a clustering analysis technique is finally used to classify all the RVs of molecular pairs into the clusters. The framework is applied to analyze trajectory from molecular dynamics simulations of an ionic liquid (trihexyltetradecylphosphonium bis(oxalato)borate ([P6,6,6,14][BOB])). The molecular pairs are successfully categorized into physically meaningful clusters, and their effectiveness is evaluated by computing the product moment correlation coefficient (PMCC). (Willett, Winterman, and Bawden, J. Chem. Inf. Comput. Sci. 1986, 26, 109–118; Downs, Willett, and Fisanick, J. Chem. Inf. Comput. Sci. 1994, 34, 1094–1102) It is observed that representative configurations of two clusters are related to two energy local minimum structures optimized by density functional theory (DFT) calculation, respectively. Several widely used clustering analysis techniques of both nonhierarchical (k‐means) and hierarchical clustering algorithms are also evaluated and compared with each other. The proposed KFV technique efficiently reveals local molecular pair structures in the simulated complex liquid. It is a method, which is highly useful for liquids and solutions in particular with strong intermolecular interactions. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fluorescence studies of the interaction between chloramphenicol and nitrogen‐doped graphene quantum dots and determination of chloramphenicol in chicken feed
Authors: Tsai Hweiyan , Hu Hsiao‐Ching , Hsieh Chih‐Chung , Lu Yi‐Hsuan , Chen Chien‐Hong , Fuh Chwan‐Bor
Published: July 2019

Chloramphenicol (CAP) is a veterinary antibiotic that has been banned due to its severe side effects in humans. Through the application of manure, veterinary antibiotics can enter the soil, where they can be taken up by crops and vegetables and pose a potential health hazard to humans. Thus, it is highly desirable to develop a rapid and sensitive tool for on‐site detection of CAP to ensure food safety and to control the abuse of antibiotics. To this end, nitrogen‐doped graphene quantum dots (N‐GQDs) were successfully prepared via microwave‐assisted synthesis using citric acid and urea as carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. Analytical results suggested that the interaction between N‐GQDs and CAP could occurs via π‐π stacking, which quenched N‐GQD fluorescence. CAP spiked into chicken feed could be rapidly extracted with ethanol and quantified based on N‐GQD fluorescence quenching without further separation. This method showed good recovery (97–102.6%), a low detection limit (1.8 ppm), and was not affected by interference from florfenicol, and thiamphenicol, legal substitute antibiotics. This method has excellent potential for determination of CAP in livestock feed and soil.
Deoxypyridinoline‐bioinspired supramolecular antibacterial salts with a C—H⋯O hydrogen‐bonded tetrameric host to construct the helical scaffold and sheet structures: The importance of rotational flexibility, anion shapes, and robust C—H⋯O hydrogen bonding
Authors: Hung Hui‐Yu , Hsu Ching‐I , Wu Che‐Kai , Wen Hsin‐Yi , Lee Kwang‐Ming
Published: July 2019

A new flexible hydrogen‐bonded supramolecular host based on two deoxypyridinoline‐bioinspired 6‐hexanoic acid‐substituted 3‐hydroxypyridinium cations that adopt the twist and planar conformations and construct the orthogonal single helical scaffold and sheet structures with the triangular NO3− and spherical Br− guest anions, respectively. The results demonstrated not only the importance of rotational flexibility, anion shapes, and robust C—H⋯O hydrogen bonding, but also the good antibacterial activity with the potential antibacterial application.
Novel oral transforming growth factor‐β signaling inhibitor potently inhibits postsurgical adhesion band formation
Authors: Soleimani Atena , Asgharzadeh Fereshteh , Rahmani Farzad , Avan Amir , Mehraban Saeedeh , Fakhraei Maryam , Arjmand Mohammad Hassan , Binabaj Maryam Moradi , Parizadeh Mohammad Reza , Ferns Gordon A. , Ryzhikov Mikhail , Afshari Amir Reza , Naghinezhad Jalal , Sayyed‐Hosseinian Sayyed Hadi , Khazaei Majid , Hassanian Seyed Mahdi
Published: July 2019

Here, we have investigated the therapeutic potency of EW‐7197, a transforming growth factor‐β type I receptor kinase inhibitor, against postsurgical adhesion band formation. Our results showed that this pharmacological inhibitor prevented the frequency and the stability of adhesion bands in mice model. We have also shown that downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines, reduce submucosal edema, attenuation of proinflammatory cell infiltration, inhibition of oxidative stress, decrease in excessive collagen deposition, and suppression of profibrotic genes at the site of surgery are some of the mechanisms by which EW‐7197 elicits its protective responses against adhesion band formation. These results clearly suggest that EW‐7197 has novel therapeutic properties against postsurgical adhesion band formation with clinically translational potential of inhibiting key pathological responses of inflammation and fibrosis in postsurgery patients.