bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deuterium effects on the vibrational circular dichroism spectra of flavanone
Authors: Muñoz Marcelo A. , Joseph‐Nathan Pedro
Published: November 2020

The minimum chemical modification that can be incorporated into an organic molecule is the replacement of a hydrogen atom for a deuterium atom. This change is not altering the pharmacological properties of a molecule, although it provides the possibility of making specific spectroscopic evaluations. Thus, in the present study, we explore how a stereogenic center is influenced by such an isotopic labeling. The studies were conducted on both enantiomers of flavanone (1 and 2) which is the parent molecule of a large group of pharmacologically active natural occurring secondary metabolites. Flavanone comprised 12 carbon atoms forming two benzene rings, a carbonyl group, an ethereal oxygen atom, a methylene group, and only one C–H stereogenic center, so it seems to be an ideal candidate for such studies. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were used for the accurate prediction of vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) spectra of (R)‐(3) and (S)‐flavanone‐2‐d (4), of (R)‐(5) and (S)‐flavanone‐3,3‐d2 (6), and of (R)‐(7) and (S)‐flavanone‐2′,3′,4′,5′,6′‐d5 (8). To gain compounds that provide experimental VCD spectra for comparative purposes, the calculated spectra of both enantiomers of the corresponding flavanones, obtained after HPLC separation of the racemates by means of a chiral column, were contrasted, thereby revealing excellent agreements when using the CompareVOA software. In addition, the VCD spectra of both unlabeled enantiomeric flavanones (1 and 2) were also compared to the labeled molecules, revealing that the VCD spectra show significant variations induced by the deuterium incorporation.
Graphene‐Based Antimicrobial Biomedical Surfaces
Authors: Pandit Santosh , Gaska Karolina , Kádár Roland , Mijakovic Ivan
Published: November 2020

Biomedical application of graphene derivatives have been intensively studied in last decade. With the exceptional structural, thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, these materials have attracted immense attention of biomedical scientists to utilize graphene derivatives in biomedical devices to improve their performance or to achieve desired functions. Surfaces of graphene derivatives including graphite, graphene, graphene oxide and reduce graphene oxide have been demonstrated to pave an excellent platform for antimicrobial behavior, enhanced biocompatibility, tissue engineering, biosensors and drug delivery. This review focuses on the recent advancement in the research of biomedical devices with the coatings or highly structured polymer nanocomposite surfaces of graphene derivatives for antimicrobial activity and sterile surfaces comprising an entirely new class of antibacterial materials. Overall, we aim to highlight on the potential of these materials, current understanding and knowledge gap in the antimicrobial behavior and biocompatibility to be utilized of their coatings to prevent the cross infections.
A novel subspace method for precise carrier frequency offset estimation in multicarrier modulation scheme under multiuser environment
Authors: S Chitra , N Kumaratharan , S Ramesh
Published: November 2020

In recent years, the demand on data communication is rapidly increasing, and there is a need of spectrally efficient modulation scheme for massive data transmissions. Multicarrier modulation (MCM) is widely used in wireless systems to support high data rate multimedia services such as audio, video, image, and data. Multicarrier code division multiple access (MC‐CDMA) is one of the MCM techniques which combines the best features of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) and code division multiple access (CDMA). The carrier frequency offset (CFO) due to oscillator instabilities or Doppler shifts greatly deteriorates the performance of MC‐CDMA system. Hence, the subcarriers are no longer orthogonal and introduce intercarrier interference (ICI) at the receiver. The simultaneous CFO estimation and compensation in multiuser mobile environment are a challenging task which needs to be addressed for optimum performance. The blind CFO estimation such as maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) has limited estimation range which is less than half the subcarrier spacing. Multiple signal classification (MUSIC) is the spectral estimation‐based subspace method suited for simultaneous CFO estimation in the multiuser environment. MUSIC offers precise CFO estimation only for the well‐spaced CFOs and fails to discriminate the strictly spaced CFOs. Hence, a novel subspace method is proposed in this paper to improve the estimation accuracy for closely spaced CFOs with the reduced computational complexity. Simulation results show that the proposed enhanced root MUSIC estimation outperforms MLE and MUSIC in terms of estimation accuracy, bit error rate (BER), and ICI power.
Visceral adiposity index is closely associated with urinary albumin‐creatinine ratio in the Chinese population with prediabetes
Authors: Wang Jie , Jin Xinye , Chen Kang , Yan Wenhua , Wang Anping , Zhu Binruo , Wang Weiqing , Gao Zhengnan , Tang Xulei , Yan Li , Wan Qin , Luo Zuojie , Qin Guijun , Chen Lulu , Mu Yiming
Published: November 2020

Aims

Visceral obesity is a major health issue and is a risk factor for an atherogenic state. Visceral obesity has been reported to be a crucial link between albuminuria and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This study attempted to explore the association between visceral obesity and albuminuria in prediabetic individuals.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 24871 prediabetic participants over 40 years of age from seven centres across China (REACTION study). The visceral adiposity index (VAI) was determined based on the measurements of anthropometric indices and lipid parameters. Increased albuminuria was defined as a urinary albumin‐creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥30 mg/g, indicating kidney damage. Propensity score matching was used to reduce bias, and a multiple logistic regression model was performed to evaluate the association between visceral obesity and albuminuria in the population with prediabetes.

Results

Participants with increased UACR exhibited increased VAI, age, blood pressure, triglycerides, poor glycaemic control, CVD events, and decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that VAI quartiles were positively associated with an increased risk of albuminuria (Q2: odds rate [OR]: 1.10, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.96–1.25; Q3: OR: 1.16, 95% CI 1.01–1.32; Q4: OR: 1.26, 95% CI 1.10–1.44, p for trend = 0.001). Stratified analysis revealed that the association of VAI level with increased albuminuria risk also occurred in people who were young, women, overweight or obese, with poor control of blood pressure, and eGFR ≥90 ml/min per 1.73 m2.

Conclusions

Visceral obesity assessed by VAI is significantly associated with increased UACR in a Chinese population with prediabetes.
Disorders of gut–brain interaction common among outpatients with eating disorders including avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder
Authors: Murray Helen Burton , Kuo Braden , Eddy Kamryn T. , Breithaupt Lauren , Becker Kendra R. , Dreier Melissa J. , Thomas Jennifer J. , Staller Kyle
Published: November 2020

Objective

Little research exists on Rome IV disorders of gut–brain interaction (DGBI; formerly called functional gastrointestinal disorders) in outpatients with eating disorders (EDs). These data are particularly lacking for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), which shares core features with DGBI. We aimed to identify the frequency and nature of DGBI symptoms among outpatients with EDs.

Method

Consecutively referred pediatric and adult patients diagnosed with an ED (n = 168, 71% female, ages 8–76 years) in our tertiary care ED program between March 2017 and July 2019 completed a modified Rome IV Questionnaire for DGBI and psychopathology measure battery.

Results

The majority (n = 122, 72%) of participants reported at least one bothersome gastrointestinal symptom. Sixty‐six (39%) met criteria for a DBGI, most frequently functional dyspepsia—post‐prandial distress syndrome subtype (31%). DGBI were surprisingly less frequent among patients with ARFID (30%) versus EDs that are associated with shape or weight concerns (45%; X2[1] = 3.61, p = .058, Cramer's V = .147). Among those with ARFID, DGBI presence was associated with the fear of aversive consequences prototype and multiple comorbid prototype presence.

Discussion

We demonstrated notable overlap between DGBI and EDs, particularly post‐prandial distress symptoms. Further research is needed to examine if gastrointestinal symptoms predict or are a result of greater ED pathology, including ARFID prototypes.
Genetic dissection of a major haplotype associated with arthritis reveal FcγR2b and FcγR3 to act additively
Authors: Vaartjes Daniëlle , Klaczkowska Dorota , Cragg Mark S , Nandakumar Kutty Selva , Bäckdahl Liselotte , Holmdahl Rikard
Published: November 2020

A haplotype with tightly linked Fc gamma receptor (FcγR) genes is known as a major locus controlling immune responses and autoimmune diseases, including arthritis. Here, we split a congenic fragment derived from the NOD mouse (Cia9) to study its effect on immune response and arthritis in mice. We found that arthritis susceptibility was indeed controlled by the FcγR gene cluster and a recombination between the FcγR2b and FcγR3 loci gave us the opportunity to separately study their impact. We identified the NOD‐derived FcγR2b and FcγR3 alleles as disease‐promoting for arthritis development without impact on antibody secretion. We further found that macrophage‐mediated phagocytosis was directly correlated to FcγR3 expression in the congenic mice. In conclusion, we positioned FcγR2b and FcγR3 alleles as disease regulatory and showed that their genetic polymorphisms independently and additively control innate immune cell activation and arthritis.
Design of a Human Lower Limbs Exoskeleton for Biomechanical Energy Harvesting and Assist Walking
Authors: Zhou Xin , Liu Geng , Han Bing , Wu Liyan , Li Hui
Published: November 2020

Powered exoskeletons are used to assist walking, but carrying a huge power supply system will bring inconvenience to humans. Passive exoskeletons lack control and accurate energy management. The muscles of the leg work periodically during walking. When the legs are swinging down after they are lifted to the highest point, it is gravity that works on the human body, and it does not require extra energy. Therefore, this article describes a wearable human lower limb energy harvesting and transmission exoskeleton (EHTE) to achieve biomechanical energy during walking; to achieve the energy harvest, management, and migration. The EHTE is mounted on the thigh and the flat spiral springs are used to create the energy from leg swings. The springs periodically store and release energy, to reduce the energy consumed by human muscles, improving walking efficiency. A prototype device is designed to evaluate its performance. The test shows that the EHTE can provide nearly 7 N force for the contralateral ankle joint. The results demonstrate that the EHTE can provide physical support for patients with lower limb dyskinesia and improve their mobility independently.
Disodium‐Substituted Tetrahydroxybenzoquinone Salt as an Organic Electrode for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Lei , Liu Wenfeng , Ren Shi-Bin , Wen Ni , Han De-Man
Published: November 2020

Organic lithium‐ion batteries (OLIBs) are desirable alternatives for next‐generation energy storage systems in terms of their low‐cost, eco‐friendliness, and structural diversity. However, the intrinsic plagues such as electrical insulation, high dissolution in liquid electrolytes, and low energy densities significantly restrict their widespread applications. Herein, a para‐disodium‐2, 5‐dihydroxy‐1, 4‐tetrahydroxybenzoquinone (p‐DSDHBQ) microcone is prepared through a simple synthetic method using the raw glyoxal (30% C2H2O2, aq) solution. The as‐obtained p‐DSDHBQ microcone demonstrates a high reversible capacity of 253 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C and retains a capacity of 199.9 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles. Moreover, the organic sodium salt exhibits superior rate performance (111 mA h g−1 at 20 C) and long‐term cycling stability (135.5 mA h g−1 at 10 C after 1000 cycles). Morphological observation, electrochemical impedance analysis, and cyclic voltammogram (CV) curves at different rates also provide insight to the advantage of phenolate sodium (ONa) groups. More interestingly, the negligible structural change during discharging/charging can be in charge of an excellent cyclic stability. Therefore, this work might provide a great opportunity to explore organic materials for LIB applications.
Reliability analysis of damping estimation by random decrement technique for high‐rise buildings
Authors: Zhou Kang , Li Qiu‐Sheng
Published: November 2020

Damping ratio is one of the most important parameters in the dynamic analysis of high‐rise buildings for structural design. As a practical damping estimation method, the random decrement technique (RDT) has been widely applied to civil structures in the past decades. The inherent limitation of the RDT is that it can only provide a single optimal damping result, while the reliability of its estimated result is unavailable. By combining the RDT with the bootstrap method, this paper presents a reliability analysis scheme for damping estimation. Based on the bootstrap‐based scheme, the reliability of damping results estimated by the RDT using four commonly used triggering conditions is systemically investigated through numerical simulations. The results show that the reliability of damping estimates can be effectively evaluated by providing the confidence interval. Moreover, based on free vibration test results and field measurements of acceleration responses of a 600‐m high skyscraper during a typhoon, the bootstrap‐based scheme is further verified to be applicable and effective for evaluating the reliability of damping results of high‐rise buildings in field measurements. This paper aims to provide useful implications for evaluating the reliability of damping estimates and thereby improve the accuracy of damping evaluation of high‐rise buildings.
Structural relationships between Helminthoid Flysch and Briançonnais Units in the Marguareis Massif: A key for deciphering the finite strain pattern in the external southwestern Alps
Authors: Sanità Edoardo , Lardeaux Jean Marc , Marroni Michele , Gosso Guido , Pandolfi Luca
Published: November 2020

The structural setting and tectonic evolution of the Marguareis Massif (located at the boundary between the Maritime and Ligurian Alps) has long been matter of debate. After new meso‐ and micro‐structural studies and field investigations, the tectonic unit interplay outlines a finite structural architecture more complex than that proposed in previous interpretations. We depict a stack of Briançonnais Units stemming from the Europe continental margin, and the Helminthoid Flysch Unit, detached from its original basement whose original palaeogeographic domain is still a matter of debate. Our results highlight for the first time that each unit recorded different pre‐stacking folding events progressively developed at different structural levels. The events occurred during the stacking of the units produced shear zones with top‐to‐SW sense of movement. After the syn‐stacking tectonics achieved during the Late Eocene‐Early Oligocene collisional events, the whole stack recorded the same post‐stacking deformation history here represented by a fold system with sub‐horizontal axial planes and faults. Similar tectonic evolution was documented in other sectors of the Western Alps by previous authors.
Detecting capital flow surges in developing countries
Authors: Kaya Ahmet Ihsan , Erden Lutfi , Ozkan Ibrahim
Published: November 2020

This study investigates excessive movements in capital flows called surges or bonanzas. Contrary to the previous work that extensively uses ad‐hoc measures and discretionary thresholds; we adopt a distinctive methodology to detect capital flow surges based on right‐tailed unit root tests. Generalized supremum augmented Dickey‐Fuller (GSADF) proposed by Phillips et al. (2015) is successfully applied to identify asset price bubbles. Exploiting the technical and conceptual similarities in the formations of asset price bubbles and capital flow surges, we perform the GSADF procedure using quarterly net capital flows data from 43 developing countries. The advantages of this procedure are twofold: it can distinguish the behaviour of volatility and explosiveness and diagnose multiple surges in a series. We identified 727 individual surges, 130 different surge episodes, and 4 global capital flow waves over the periods of 1995–2017. Compared with the existing measures, the application of this surge‐detection technique provides a useful tool as a data‐driven method with no need for discretionary thresholds. We also investigate the factors triggering capital flow surges, employing the Fernandez‐Val and Weidner (2016) bias‐adjusted fixed effects probit model and find that domestic factors play a dominant role on the surge occurrences in developing countries.
Exchange rate fluctuations and interest rate policy
Authors: Liu Tie‐Ying , Lee Chien‐Chiang
Published: November 2020

This research studies the non‐linear relationship between interest rates and exchange rates for China and the United States using the rolling‐window method. We also investigate uncovered interest rate parity (UIP) and the capital market theory for the whole time period and subperiods so as to reconsider various economic connections between China and the United States. The results suggest that the effect of the latter's interest rate adjustment on China/U.S. exchange rate volatility is stronger than that of China's interest rate adjustment. Moreover, changes in the China/U.S. exchange rate have a slightly stronger effect on the U.S. interest rate than on China's interest rate. Our findings reveal that the interest rate parity theory does not hold for the entire sample period but may hold in subperiods. The results provide a reference for the steady implementation of RMB internationalization.
Synthesis of two‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides for electronics and optoelectronics
Authors: Wu Min , Xiao Yonghong , Zeng Yang , Zhou Yuanliang , Zeng Xiangbin , Zhang Lining , Liao Wugang
Published: November 2020

Tremendous efforts have been devoted to preparing the ultrathin two‐dimensional (2D) transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) and TMDCs‐based heterojunctions owing to their unique properties and great potential applications in next generation electronics and optoelectronics over the past decade. However, to fulfill the demands for practical applications, the batch production of 2D TMDCs with high quality and large area at the mild conditions is still a challenge. This feature article reviews the state‐of‐the‐art research progresses that focus on the preparation and the applications in electronics and optoelectronics of 2D TMDCs and their van der Waals heterojunctions. First, the preparation methods including chemical and physical vapor deposition growth are comprehensively outlined. Then, recent progress on the application of fabricated 2D TMDCs‐based materials is revealed with particular attention to electronic (eg, field effect transistors and logic circuits) and optoelectronic (eg, photodetectors, photovoltaics, and light emitting diodes) devices. Finally, the challenges and future prospects are considered based on the current advance of 2D TMDCs and related heterojunctions.

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Trend analysis of cold extremes in South Africa: 1960–2016
Authors: van der Walt Adriaan J. , Fitchett Jennifer M.
Published: November 2020

Extreme cold events (“cold waves”) have disastrous impacts on ecosystem and human health. Evidence shows that these events will still occur under current increasing mean temperatures. Little research has been done on extreme cold events, especially in developing countries such as South Africa. These events pose a significant threat due to the low adaptive capacity, urgent development needs and relatively inadequate infrastructure in South Africa. This study presents annual and seasonal, spatial and temporal trend analyses of extreme cold temperature events for the period 1960–2016. We apply the World Meteorological Organisation Commission for Climatology and Indices Expert Team on Sector‐Specific Climate Indices (ET‐SCI) to South Africa for the first time, with comparison to the World Meteorological Organisation Expert Team on Climate Change Detection (ETCCDI) indices previously used in South Africa. The extreme cold indices are calculated using the RClimDex and ClimPACT, respectively. Trends were calculated using the non‐parametric Mann‐Kendall test, Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient and Sen's slope estimates. A decreasing trend is found for annual cold spell duration and cold wave frequency, at rates of 0.10 days.day−1 and 0.02 events.day−1, respectively. Seasonally, coldest day temperatures increased in autumn, with increases of 0.02°C.day−1 for the period 1960–2016. Regionally, increasing trends in annual cold spell duration days were evident in stations located in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, North‐West Province, at a rate of 0.03 days.day−1. Increasing trends in cold waves were observed for stations in Northern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu‐Natal and the Eastern Cape Province, at a rate of 0.01 events.day−1. These results contribute to the awareness and recognition of the incidence and duration of cold extreme events in South Africa, seeing that studies suggest that anomalously cold events may persist in a warming world.
Musculoskeletal microbiology: The utility of the microbiome in orthopedics
Authors: Hernandez Christopher J.
Published: November 2020

The past 15 years have witnessed a renaissance in the study of the microbes that colonize the human body. The vast majority of the human microbiome resides within the gut. Alterations to the gut microbiome have been associated with the pathogenesis and progression of wide‐ranging diseases throughout the body—including atherosclerosis, depression, and obesity. Our understanding of the effects of the gut microbiome on the musculoskeletal system remains in its infancy, but preclinical work has demonstrated an effect of the gut microbiome on the success of orthopedic surgical procedures, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and muscle mass. In this perspective I review preclinical findings demonstrating that an impaired presurgical gut microbiome can increase the likelihood of developing periprosthetic joint infection and how alterations in the gut microbiome can reduce bone strength by impairing bone tissue material properties. In addition to discussing these examples, I review the hypothesis that many chronic non‐communicable diseases have become more prevalent in modern industrialized societies as a result of changes in the composition of the gut microbiome resulting from changes in environment/lifestyle (diet, sanitation, antibiotic use). The most burdensome musculoskeletal disorders are chronic and non‐communicable and may therefore be related to generational shifts in the composition of the gut microbiome, a possibility I illustrate by reviewing changes in the prevalence of osteoarthritis over the last century. Microbiome‐based therapeutics are potentially innocuous, inexpensive, and have the potential to be effective with only occasional use, making them attractive for addressing the needs of chronic and/or slowly progressing musculoskeletal disorders.
Factors influencing the prevalence of peri‐implantitis in implants inserted in augmented maxillary sinuses: A multicenter cross‐sectional study
Authors: Stacchi Claudio , Troiano Giuseppe , Rapani Antonio , Lombardi Teresa , Sentineri Rosario , Speroni Stefano , Berton Federico , Di Lenarda Roberto
Published: November 2020

Background

Peri‐implantitis is widely recognized as a major cause of late implant failure, both in pristine and regenerated bone. The present study aims to evaluate the prevalence of peri‐implantitis in implants inserted in augmented maxillary sinuses and to analyze possible risk factors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in four centers including patients who underwent lateral or transcrestal sinus augmentation and received dental implants. Clinical and anamnestic data were collected using a standardized form. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses have been performed for both implant‐level and patient‐level variables. Subsequently, a multilevel logistic mixed‐effect model was built to analyze variables correlated with the occurrence of peri‐implantitis.

Results

A total of 156 patients (61 males and 95 females; mean age: 60.9 ± 11.6 years) with 315 implants inserted into augmented maxillary sinuses with a follow‐up ranging from 1 to 18 years were evaluated. Seven implants in seven patients were previously lost for peri‐implantitis (2.2% and 4.5% at implant‐ and patient‐level, respectively); 250 implants showed no signs of peri‐implant diseases (79.4%), 34 implants presented mucositis (10.8%), and 24 implants exhibited peri‐implantitis (7.6%). Corresponding data evaluated at patient‐level were 125 (80.1%), 17 (10.9%), and 14 (9.0%), respectively. At the multilevel analysis, history of periodontitis, sinus elevation with lateral approach, and one‐stage sinus floor elevation significantly correlated with the occurrence of peri‐implantitis (P <0.001).

Conclusions

History of periodontitis confirmed its well‐known role as a risk factor for peri‐implant pathologies. In addition, both lateral window technique and one‐stage sinus floor elevation seemed to represent significant risk factors for peri‐implantitis.
A rapid liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐ion mobility spectrometry method for monitoring nine representative metabolites in the seedlings of cucumber and wheat
Authors: Lu Yaling , Wu Xiangping , Yuan Lei , Li Yingdi , Wang Penghui , Yu Jianna , Tian Pingfang , Liu Wenjie
Published: November 2020

A fast and convenient high‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐ion mobility spectrometry method was developed to determine nine representative metabolites in the seedlings of cucumber and wheat. The analytical conditions were obtained by optimizing the parameters of high‐performance liquid chromatography and ion mobility spectrometry. Briefly, acetonitrile–0.1% formic acid solution was selected as the mobile phase for gradient elution at a flow velocity of 0.4 mL/min. Under negative electrospray ionization mode, spray voltage of ion mobility spectrometry was 4.5 kV, and drift tube temperature was set at 90°C. The metabolites from seedling leaves were extracted using 80% acetonitrile as the solvent at 4°C for 12 h. Results showed that under soilless culture conditions, the contents of maltose, citric acid, and p‐hydroxybenzoic acid in the seedlings of cucumber and wheat were reduced by low concentration of itaconic acid, succinic acid, and citric acid. Importantly, this analytical approach demonstrated high sensitivity, good linear response, and high selectivity. The lowest limit of detection was 0.004 μg for p‐hydroxybenzoic acid. Overall, this high‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐ion mobility spectrometry method is sensitive and efficient for rapid separation and identification of plant metabolites.
The Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale: Dimensionality and Measurement Invariance in a Sample of Children and Adolescents Exposed to Wildfires
Authors: Pereira Joana , Vagos Paula , Fonseca Ana , Moreira Helena , Canavarro Maria Cristina , Rijo Daniel
Published: November 2020

Natural disasters are potentially traumatic events due to their disruptive nature and high impact on social and physical environments, particularly for children and adolescents. The present study aimed to examine the psychometric properties of the Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale (CRIES‐13) in a sample of Portuguese children and adolescents exposed to a specific type of natural disaster (i.e., wildfire). The sample was recruited at six school units of the Central region of Portugal following wildfires in the summer of 2017 and included children and adolescents without a clinical diagnosis of a psychopathological condition associated with exposure to the traumatic event (i.e., nonclinical sample, n = 486) and those with a clinical diagnosis of a trauma‐ and/or stress‐related disorder (i.e., posttraumatic stress disorder [PTSD], adjustment disorder, separation anxiety disorder, or grief; clinical sample, n = 54). Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that a two‐factor model (i.e., Intrusion/Arousal and Avoidance) provided a better fit than a three‐factor model (i.e., Intrusion, Arousal, and Avoidance) and was found to be invariant across gender and age groups. The CRIES‐13 showed good reliability for all subscales, with Cronbach's αs > .79. Higher CRIES‐13 scores were associated with poorer health and well‐being and more internalizing and externalizing problems. The clinical sample presented with significantly higher CRIES‐13 scores than the nonclinical sample, ηp2 = .13. These results contribute to the cross‐cultural validation of the CRIES‐13 and support its use as a reliable and valid measure for assessing posttraumatic symptoms in children and adolescents.
The Fitting subgroup, p‐length, derived length and character table
Authors: Ahanjideh Neda
Published: November 2020

For a character χ of a finite group G, the number is called the codegree of χ. Let N be a normal subgroup of G and set
Let p be a prime. In this paper, we first show that if for two distinct prime divisors p and q of , divides none of the codegrees of elements of , then and N is either p‐solvable or q‐solvable. Next, we classify the finite groups with exactly one irreducible character of the codegree divisible by p and, also finite groups whose codegrees of irreducible characters which are divisible by p are equal. Then, we prove that p‐length of a finite p‐solvable group is not greater than the number of the distinct codegrees of its irreducible characters which are divisible by p. Finally, we consider the case when the codegree of every element of is square‐free.
Consumers' response to promotional gifts: The role of gender, transactional value, and reciprocity
Authors: Kovacheva Aleksandra , Nikolova Hristina , Lamberton Cait
Published: November 2020

Gifts received with the purchase of a focal product are widely used as a tool aimed at incentivizing sales. Yet, marketers still face many questions related to the effectiveness of this promotional technique. In this paper, we examine whether customer's gender—a variable that is managerially relevant and often collected for targeting and positioning purposes—influences the success of gift promotions. Using novel data from a car rental company, we show that promotional gifts have a stronger positive impact on subsequent purchase behaviors for women (vs. men). Two follow‐up experiments demonstrate that this gender effect is driven by the fact that women obtain greater transactional value from the promotional purchase than men do, leading to enhanced reciprocity motivation among women. Taken together, these findings first argue for a more targeted use of promotions involving gifts and second, raise questions about whether we should carefully consider potential gender differences in predicting the effects of many common marketing tactics that are presently discussed as if universal.
Synergetic Effect of Dopamine and Alkoxysilanes in Sustainable Non‐Isocyanate Polyurethane Adhesives
Authors: Gomez‐Lopez Alvaro , Grignard Bruno , Calvo Iñigo , Detrembleur Christophe , Sardon Haritz
Published: November 2020

The preparation of non‐isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs) by polyaddition of (poly)cyclic carbonates to (poly)amines represents one of the most optimistic alternatives for replacing conventional polyurethanes prepared by the toxic isocyanate chemistry. However, the limited reactivity of conventional five membered cyclic carbonates even in the presence of catalysts restricts their industrial implementation. One way to mitigate this lack of reactivity is to combine with other chemistries to create hybrid‐NIPUs with superior performance. In this article the combination of the adhesive promoter, dopamine, and the fast‐curing promoter, an aminopropyl trimethoxysilane, is found to create a synergetic effect on the rheological and adhesive properties of NIPUs. After demonstrating the importance of adjusting soft/hard ratios to obtain lap‐shear strength adhesion values up to 21 MPa on stainless steel, these values are retained when adding dopamine and silane compounds. Importantly, the adhesive properties of NIPU are preserved at high temperature (T > 200 °C) for optimal compositions. Finally, adhesion tests on various substrates (polyamide, high density polyethylene, poly(methyl methacrylate), oak wood, and aluminum) show best performances on polar substrates confirming the strong interactions of hydroxyl groups of NIPU and dopamine.
Super Gas Barrier of a Polyelectrolyte/Clay Coacervate Thin Film
Authors: Chiang Hsu‐Cheng , Kolibaba Thomas J. , Eberle Bailey , Grunlan Jaime C.
Published: November 2020

Transparent polymeric thin films with high oxygen barrier are important for extending the shelf life of food and protecting flexible organic electronic devices. Polyelectrolyte/clay multilayer nanocoatings are shown to exhibit super gas barrier performance, but the layer‐by‐layer assembly process requires numerous deposition steps. In an effort to more quickly fabricate this type of barrier, a polyelectrolyte/clay coacervate composed of branched polyethyleneimine (PEI), poly(acrylic acid) (PAA), and kaolinite (KAO) clay is prepared and deposited in a single step, followed by humidity and thermal post‐treatments. When deposited onto a 179 µm poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) film, a 4 µm coacervate coating reduces the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) by more than three orders of magnitude, while maintaining high transparency. This single‐step deposition process uses only low‐cost, water‐based components and ambient conditions, which can be used to for sensitive food and electronics packaging.
Suppression of Hippo Pathway by Food Allergen Exacerbates Intestinal Epithelia Instability and Facilitates Hypersensitivity
Authors: Wang Chong , lin Wanglei , Wang Yanbo , Fu Linglin
Published: November 2020

Scope

Hippo signaling is a crucial pathway in innate immune responses, but the relationship between food allergy and Hippo pathway is unknown. The aim of this work is to investigate the regulation of food allergy by Hippo pathway and reveal the molecular mechanisms.

Methods and results

Two food allergens tropomyosin and ovalbumin are used to challenge a mouse model and CMT93 intestinal epithelia cell model. The allergic responses and the activation of Hippo pathway are tested in these models. In the mouse model, both allergens trigged significant allergic responses, and Hippo pathway is suppressed after allergen challenge. In CMT93, both allergens upregulate the expression of allergic cytokines thymic stromal lymphopoietin, interleukin (IL)‐25, and IL‐33. In TAZ KD CMT93, the Hippo pathway is blocked, and the expression of allergenic cytokines are also suppressed.

Conclusions

Both in vivo and in vitro data demonstrate that the two food allergens suppressed Hippo pathway by downregulating TAZ expression, resulting in intestinal epithelia instability, and finally leading to hypersensitivity reactions. These findings provide potential therapeutic targets and molecular markers for food allergy, and provide dietary guidelines for allergenic individuals.
Important pharmacokinetic parameters for individualization of 177Lu‐PSMA therapy: A global sensitivity analysis for a physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic model
Authors: Hardiansyah Deni , Kletting Peter , Begum Nusrat J. , Eiber Matthias , Beer Ambros J. , Pawiro Supriyanto A. , Glatting Gerhard
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The knowledge of the contribution of anatomical and physiological parameters to interindividual pharmacokinetic differences could potentially be used to improve individualized treatment planning for radionuclide therapy. The aim of this study was therefore to identify the physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model parameters that determine the interindividual variability of absorbed doses (ADs) to kidneys and tumor lesions in therapy with 177Lu‐labeled PSMA‐targeting radioligands.

Methods

A global sensitivity analysis (GSA) with the extended Fourier Amplitude Sensitivity Test (eFAST) algorithm was performed. The whole‐body PBPK model for PSMA‐targeting radioligand therapy from our previous studies was used in this study. The model parameters of interest (input of the GSA) were the organ receptor densities [R0], the organ blood flows f, and the organ release rates λ. These parameters were systematically sampled NE times according to their distribution in the patient population. The corresponding pharmacokinetics were simulated and the ADs (model output) to kidneys and tumor lesions were collected. The main effect and total effect were calculated using the eFAST algorithm based on the variability of the model output: The main effect of input parameter represents the reduction in variance of the output if the “true” value of parameter would be known. The total effect of an input parameter represents the proportion of variance remaining if the “true” values of all other input parameters except for are known. The numbers of samples NE were increased up to 8193 to check the stability (i.e., convergence) of the calculated main effects and total effects .

Results

From the simulations, the relative interindividual variability of ADs in the kidneys (coefficient of variation CV = 31%) was lower than that of ADs in the tumors (CV up to 59%). Based on the GSA, the most important parameters that determine the ADs to the kidneys were kidneys flow ( = 0.36,  = 0.43) and kidneys receptor density ( = 0.25,  = 0.30). Tumor receptor density was identified as the most important parameter determining the ADs to tumors ( and up to 0.72).

Conclusions

The results suggest that an accurate measurement of receptor density and flow before therapy could be a promising approach for developing an individualized treatment with 177Lu‐labeled PSMA‐targeting radioligands.
Modeling and accomplishing the BEREC network neutrality policy
Authors: Barreto David S. , Reale Rafael F. , Martins Joberto S. B.
Published: November 2020

Network neutrality (NN) is a principle of equal treatment of data in network infrastructures with fairness and universality being the primary outcomes of the NN management practice. For networks, the accomplishment of NN management practice is essential to deal with heterogeneous user requirements and the ever‐increasing data traffic. Current tools and methods address the NN problem by detecting network neutrality violations and detecting traffic differentiation. This paper proposes the NN‐PCM (Network Neutrality Policy Conformance Module) that deploys the BEREC network neutrality policy using a bandwidth allocation model (BAM). The NN‐PCM new approach allocates bandwidth to network users and accomplishes the BEREC NN policy concomitantly. Network neutrality is achieved by grouping users with similar traffic requirements in classes and leveraging the bandwidth allocation model's characteristics. The conceptual analysis and simulation results indicate that NN‐PCM allocates bandwidth to users and accomplishes BEREC network neutrality conformance by design with transparent, nondiscriminatory, exceptional, and proportional management practices.
A cross‐sectional study on the relationship between meditation training and emotional intelligence in women
Authors: Sung Min‐Kyu , Ha Na Hyun , Lee Ul Soon , Yang Hyun‐Jeong
Published: November 2020

Aim

We aimed to reveal the relationship of meditation with emotional intelligence (EI), sleep quality and melatonin level.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Our current research was performed on middle‐aged women. EI scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and night‐time saliva melatonin were measured for 65 participants including 33 meditators and 32 controls.

Results

The meditation group showed a significantly higher EI score than the control group. In the regression analysis between EI and age, only the meditation group showed a significant positive correlation. The Pearson correlation analysis among all participants revealed a significant negative correlation between PSQI and EI. There was no significant group difference in the melatonin and PSQI.
Stakeholder theory: Revisiting the origins
Authors: Goyal Lakshmi
Published: November 2020

The stakeholder theory was proposed as a holistic way of managing organizations that acknowledged stakeholders' roles and the firm's fiduciary duty towards them. Despite the theory being firmly rooted in organizational management, trends of published research showcase and stakeholder scholars' rue that the adoption of stakeholder theory in strategic management research has been limited. This study aims to extend our understanding of the constrained endorsement of stakeholder theory in strategic management research by revisiting the theory's origins. We review some of the significant theoretical studies contributing to the theory's growth and development and identify theoretical issues related to considerable debate amongst academicians. Lending legitimacy to our arguments, we also identify and discuss a few recent strategic management studies that still have been developing and building on the initial debates related to the stakeholder theory. The authors believe that addressing these persistent gaps in the theory might further the theory's adoption in strategic management research and practice.
A review of the experience with pediatric written requests issued for oncology drug products
Authors: Akalu Alemayehu Y. , Meng Xi , Reaman Gregory H. , Ma Lian , Yuan Weishi , Ye Jingjing
Published: November 2020

Background

Pediatric anticancer drug development has numerous challenges. The Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA) and the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act (BPCA) were passed to address pediatric drug development deficiencies in general. Until recently, the requirements for pediatric evaluation of most oncology products developed for adult cancers have been waived. Because children typically do not have the same type of cancers, which occur commonly in adults, or the indication or drug had been granted an orphan designation, PREA therefore has had no impact. Pediatric studies for labeling updates are largely done through BPCA by a written request (WR) issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Because the cancers that occur in pediatric and adult populations do not share the same etiology or natural history, there are limited opportunities to extrapolate adult efficacy and safety to the pediatric population. The characteristics of individual pediatric studies included in WRs have varied greatly over time.

Procedure

In this study, we searched WRs that were issued by the FDA since 2001. We found 40 such requests issued for oncology drugs and biologics, which had been accepted by sponsors.

Results

Clinical trials included in 23 of the WRs have been concluded, 19 have resulted in exclusivity, and three drugs that were studied have been approved for use in pediatric populations. Herein, we present the spectrum of WRs from a regulatory, study design, dosing, formulation, analysis plan, evidentiary standard of efficacy, and safety perspective.

Conclusions

This provides information on requests issued in the past nearly 20 years and studies that are completed. As WRs have provided the only regulatory mechanism to assure pediatric cancer drug development, this can potentially provide insight on how pediatric cancer drug development may change in the future.
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma with regional nodal involvement: Results of a combined analysis from two cooperative groups
Authors: Gallego Soledad , Chi Yueh‐Yun , De Salvo Gian Luca , Li Minjie , Merks Johannes H.M. , Rodeberg David A. , van Scheltinga Sheila Terwisscha , Mascarenhas Leo , Orbach Daniel , Jenney Meriel , Million Lynn , Minard‐Colin Veronique , Wolden Suzanne , Zanetti Ilaria , Parham David M. , Mandeville Henry , Venkatramani Rajkumar , Bisogno Gianni , Hawkins Douglas S. ,   European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group and Children's Oncology Group
Published: November 2020

Background

Treatment of children and adolescents with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) and regional nodal involvement (N1) have been approached differently by North American and European cooperative groups. In order to define a better therapeutic strategy, we analyzed two studies conducted between 2005 and 2016 by the European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG) and Children's Oncology Group (COG).

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with ARMS N1 enrolled in either EpSSG RMS2005 or in COG ARST0531. Chemotherapy in RMS2005 comprised ifosfamide + vincristine + dactinomycin + doxorubicin (IVADo), IVA and maintenance (vinorelbine, cyclophosphamide); in ARST0531, it consisted of either vincristine + dactinomycin + cyclophosphamide (VAC) or VAC alternating with vincristine + irinotecan (VI). Local treatment was similar in both protocols.

Results

The analysis of the clinical characteristics of 239 patients showed some differences between study groups: in RMS2005, advanced Intergroup Rhabdomyosarcoma Study Group (IRS) and large tumors predominated. There were no differences in outcomes between the two groups: 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS), 49% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 39‐59) and 44% (95% CI: 30‐58), and overall survival (OS), 51% (95% CI: 41‐61) and 53.6% (95% CI: 40‐68) in RMS2005 and ARST0531, respectively. In RMS2005, EFS of patients with FOXO1‐positive tumors was significantly inferior to those with FOXO1‐negative (49.3% vs 73%, P = .034). In contrast, in ARST0531, EFS of patients with FOXO1‐positive tumors was 45% compared with 43.8% for those with FOXO1‐negative.

Conclusions

The outcome of patients with ARMS N1 was similar in both protocols. However, patients with FOXO1 fusion‐negative tumors enrolled in RMS2005 showed a significantly better outcome, suggesting that different strategies of chemotherapy may have an impact in the outcome of this subgroup of patients.
Identification of suitable sites for large‐scale photovoltaic installations through a geographic information system and analytical hierarchy process combination: A case study in Marrakesh‐Safi region, Morocco
Authors: Ouchani Fatima‐zahra , Jbaihi Ouafae , Maaroufi Mohammed , Ghennioui Abdellatif
Published: November 2020

In this paper, an assessment of the large‐scale photovoltaic (PV) potential in the region of Marrakesh‐Safi, Morocco, has been carried out. Considering the significant solar resources that the country possesses, the purpose of this investigation was to highlight suitable sites for a PV power plant. To this end, multicriteria decision making (MCDM) analysis and geographic information system (GIS) tools were combined. Several criteria were taken into account, namely, the constraints related to the system installation and environmental conditions. To the best of our knowledge, no study has considered the wind speed as a criterion for PV site selection. Such a criterion has a cooling effect on the technology itself and also affects the stability of the PV panel mounting system. Results reveal that 74% of the study area was considered suitable to host PV power plants. An analytical hierarchy process (AHP) analysis was conducted to evaluate the adopted criteria and a ranking map was generated for the appropriate surface using GIS tools. Results demonstrate that 24.3% of the suitable area was qualified as highly suitable according to calculations. These findings help stakeholders to select the highest ranked sites, ensuring a high score from a technical and economic point of view.