bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis and clinical outcomes of extrapulmonary tuberculosis in antiretroviral therapy programmes in low‐ and middle‐income countries: a multicohort study
Authors: Zürcher Kathrin , Ballif Marie , Kiertiburanakul Sasisopin , Chenal Henri , Yotebieng Marcel , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Michael Denna , Sterling Timothy R , Ngonyani Kapella M , Mandalakas Anna M , Egger Matthias , Pettit April C , Fenner Lukas ,   the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) is difficult to confirm bacteriologically and requires specific diagnostic capacities. Diagnosis can be especially challenging in under‐resourced settings. We studied diagnostic modalities and clinical outcomes of EPTB compared to pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) among HIV‐positive adults in antiretroviral therapy (ART) programmes in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC).

Methods

We collected data from HIV‐positive TB patients (≥16 years) in 22 ART programmes participating in the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) consortium in sub‐Saharan Africa, Asia‐Pacific, and Caribbean, Central and South America regions between 2012 and 2014. We categorized TB as PTB or EPTB (EPTB included mixed PTB/EPTB). We used multivariable logistic regression to assess associations with clinical outcomes.

Results and Discussion

We analysed 2695 HIV‐positive TB patients. Median age was 36 years (interquartile range (IQR) 30 to 43), 1102 were female (41%), and the median CD4 count at TB treatment start was 114 cells/μL (IQR 40 to 248). Overall, 1930 had PTB (72%), and 765 EPTB (28%). Among EPTB patients, the most frequently involved sites were the lymph nodes (24%), pleura (15%), abdomen (11%) and meninges (6%). The majority of PTB (1123 of 1930, 58%) and EPTB (582 of 765, 76%) patients were diagnosed based on clinical criteria. Bacteriological confirmation (using positive smear microscopy, culture, Xpert MTB/RIF, or other nucleic acid amplification tests result) was obtained in 897 of 1557 PTB (52%) and 183 of 438 EPTB (42%) patients. EPTB was not associated with higher mortality compared to PTB (adjusted odd ratio (aOR) 1.0, 95% CI 0.8 to 1.3), but TB meningitis was (aOR 1.9, 95% CI 1.0 to 3.1). Bacteriological confirmation was associated with reduced mortality among PTB patients (aOR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6 to 0.8) and EPTB patients (aOR 0.3 95% CI 0.1 to 0.8) compared to TB patients with a negative test result.

Conclusions

Diagnosis of EPTB and PTB at ART programmes in LMIC was mainly based on clinical criteria. Greater availability and usage of TB diagnostic tests would improve the diagnosis and clinical outcomes of both EPTB and PTB.
Syk-dependent glycolytic reprogramming in dendritic cells regulates IL-1β production to β-glucan ligands in a TLR-independent manner
Authors: Thwe Phyu M , Fritz Daniel I , Snyder Julia P , Smith Portia R , Curtis Kylie D , O'Donnell Alexandra , Galasso Nicholas A , Sepaniac Leslie A , Adamik Benjamin J , Hoyt Laura R , Rodriguez Princess D , Hogan Tyler C , Schmidt Andrea F , Poynter Matthew E , Amiel Eyal
Published: September 2019

Dendritic cells (DCs) activated via TLR ligation experience metabolic reprogramming, in which the cells are heavily dependent on glucose and glycolysis for the synthesis of molecular building blocks essential for maturation, cytokine production, and the ability to stimulate T cells. Although the TLR-driven metabolic reprogramming events are well documented, fungal-mediated metabolic regulation via C-type lectin receptors such as Dectin-1 and Dectin-2 is not clearly understood. Here, we show that activation of DCs with fungal-associated β-glucan ligands induces acute glycolytic reprogramming that supports the production of IL-1β and its secretion subsequent to NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. This acute glycolytic induction in response to β-glucan ligands requires spleen tyrosine kinase signaling in a TLR-independent manner, suggesting now that different classes of innate immune receptors functionally induce conserved metabolic responses to support immune cell activation. These studies provide new insight into the complexities of metabolic regulation of DCs immune effector function regarding cellular activation associated with protection against fungal microbes.
Efficient large‐scale scattering analysis of objects in a stratified medium
Authors: Zhang Kedi , Goddard Lynford L. , Jin Jian‐Ming
Published: September 2019

An efficient method is presented to analyze electromagnetic scattering of large‐scale objects in a stratified medium. The method introduces an inhomogeneous absorbing boundary condition (ABC) to truncate an infinite stratified medium for the finite‐element analysis. It then adopts the dual‐primal finite‐element tearing and interconnecting (FETI‐DP) algorithm with distributed computing to enable and speed up large‐scale simulations on a computer cluster. Finally, the method utilizes the reciprocity theorem to simplify scattered field calculation and employs the multilevel fast multipole algorithm (MLFMA) to improve the computational efficiency. Three verification examples are presented to demonstrate the solution accuracy of the proposed method, followed by an electrically large example to demonstrate the capability of the method for large‐scale electromagnetic modeling of objects in a stratified medium.
Impact of human disturbance on the biogeochemical silicon cycle in a coastal sea revealed by silicon isotopes
Authors: Zhang Zhouling , Sun Xiaole , Dai Minhan , Cao Zhimian , Fontorbe Guillaume , Conley Daniel J.
Published: September 2019

Biogeochemical silicon (Si) cycling in coastal systems is highly influenced by anthropogenic perturbations in recent decades. Here, we present a systematic study on the distribution of stable Si isotopes of dissolved silicate (δ30SiDSi) in a highly eutrophic coastal system, the Baltic Sea. Besides the well‐known processes, diatom production and dissolution regulating δ30SiDSi values in the water column, we combined field data with a box model to examine the role of human disturbances on Si cycling in the Baltic Sea. Results reveal that (1) damming led to increased δ30SiDSi values in water but had little impacts on their vertical distribution; (2) decrease in saltwater inflow due to enhanced thermal stratification had negligible impacts on the δ30SiDSi distribution. An atypical vertical distribution of δ30SiDSi with higher values in deep water (1.57–1.95‰) relative to those in surface water (1.24–1.68‰) was observed in the central basin. Model results suggest the role of enhanced biogenic silica (BSi) deposition and subsequently regenerated dissolved silicate (DSi) flux from sediments. Specifically, eutrophication enhances diatom production, resulting in elevated exports of highly fractionated BSi to deep water and sediments. In situ sedimentary geochemical processes, such as authigenic clay formation, further fractionate Si isotopes and increase pore‐water δ30SiDSi values, which then leads to pore‐water DSi flux carrying higher δ30SiDSi compositions into deep water. Our findings provide new quantitative information on how the isotope‐based Si cycle responds to human perturbations in coastal seas and shed lights on shifts of Si export to open ocean.
Perspectives for Applications of Quantum Imaging
Authors: Gilaberte Basset Marta , Setzpfandt Frank , Steinlechner Fabian , Beckert Erik , Pertsch Thomas , Gräfe Markus
Published: September 2019

Quantum imaging is a multifaceted field of research that promises highly efficient imaging in extreme spectral ranges as well as ultralow‐light microscopy. Since the first proof‐of‐concept experiments over 30 years ago, the field has evolved from highly fascinating academic research to the verge of demonstrating practical technological enhancements in imaging and microscopy. Here, the aim is to give researchers from outside the quantum optical community, in particular those applying imaging technology, an overview of several promising quantum imaging approaches and evaluate both the quantum benefit and the prospects for practical usage in the near future. Several use case scenarios are discussed and a careful analysis of related technology requirements and necessary developments toward practical and commercial application is provided.
Unique Design Strategy for Laser‐Driven Color Converters Enabling Superhigh‐Luminance and High‐Directionality White Light
Authors: Zheng Peng , Li Shuxing , Wei Ran , Wang Le , Zhou Tian‐Liang , Xu Yi‐Rong , Takeda Takashi , Hirosaki Naoto , Xie Rong‐Jun
Published: September 2019

Robust ceramic color converters withstanding strong laser irradiations have recently drawn great attention for laser‐driven white lighting. However, the local emission within the incident laser spot usually expands to the whole surface area of the ceramics, which definitely makes it hard to achieve white light with high luminance and high directionality. Herein, a new strategy is proposed to solve the problem by elaborately introducing uniform spherical pores (diameter of ≈2 µm) into the phosphor ceramics with controlled contents from 8 to 24.6 vol%. The well‐distributed pores, acting as light scattering centers, enable reduction of the luminescent spot size greatly but without any losses in conversion efficiency. By using the high‐scattering ceramic color converters with 15% porosity, the light spot diameter is decreased by 46% and the central illuminance is increased by 156%. Moreover, laser‐driven white light with an enhanced beam directionality and uniformity is also achieved. A superhigh luminous flux of 7199 lm is realized by using this promising color converter in a rotary mode. The designed high‐scattering ceramics with controllable microstructures show great potential for use in extra‐high luminance laser‐driven lighting and projection.
When social intrusiveness depletes customer value: A balanced perspective on the agency of simultaneous sharers in a commercial sharing experience
Authors: Simon Françoise , Roederer Claire
Published: September 2019

A major pattern of non‐ownership consumption is “simultaneous sharing,” whereby customers simultaneously share the same resource in either a virtual or physical setting. However, little research examines the actual value that consumers derive from such a group‐based commercial experience. By integrating the literature on customer value and the psychology of autonomy, this study proposes a theoretical model of the simultaneous sharing experience that balances the benefits and social intrusiveness of sharer agency. Based on data that were collected from members of a collaborative platform dedicated to flat sharing and analyzed through structural equation modeling, social intrusiveness is found to be a pervasive phenomenon that strongly impairs customer satisfaction, whereas communal benefits, as reflected by enjoyment, companionship, informational guidance, and emotional support, enhance it. As a major antecedent of both communal benefits and intrusiveness, perceived homophily nourishes satisfaction, however, customer age may reduce the buffering influence of perceived homophily on intrusiveness, whereas an additional positive effect on communal benefits is associated with the sharer social integrative motive. We discuss the implications of this study for customer experience and commercial sharing consumption research.
The Relationship between Specific Structure and Gas Permeability of Bromobutyl Rubber: A Combination of Experiments and Molecular Simulations
Authors: Cai Fei , You Guohua , Zhao Xiuying , Hu Haihua , Wu Sizhu
Published: September 2019

The relationship between the specific structure and gas permeability of brominated poly(isobutylene‐co‐isoprene) rubber (BIIR) is investigated by a combination method of both experiments and molecular simulation. It is found that the various content of secondary allyl bromide isoprene (SABI) units exert an effect on transport behavior, including both diffusion and solution behavior of small molecule in BIIR, glass transition temperature, and vulcanization characteristics. The results show that a minimum value of permeability coefficient exists with the increase of SABI content. Moreover, more SABI in BIIR will lead to a rise in glass transition temperature and curing rate. It means that the gas permeability of BIIR can be further improved by adjusting composition of the copolymer BIIR. Meanwhile, this research may also provide useful information for understanding the penetration mechanism of oxygen in the BIIR matrix and supply a theoretical tool for designing high air tightness rubber materials.
The Relevance of Multi‐Injection and Temperature Profiles to Design Multi‐Phase Reactive Processing of Polyolefins
Authors: Hernández‐Ortiz Julio C. , Van Steenberge Paul H. M. , Duchateau Jan N. E. , Toloza Carolina , Schreurs Fons , Reyniers Marie‐Françoise , Marin Guy B. , D'hooge Dagmar R.
Published: September 2019

For industrial‐scale continuous free radical induced grafting of polyethylene, which involves the contact of a monomer‐ and polymer‐rich phase, it is demonstrated that the functionalization selectivity and grafting density can be significantly improved (e.g., 100%) by considering multiple injection of monomer and/or a temperature profile. With parameters taken from literature, it is highlighted through simulations that step‐wise addition of monomer allows to reduce the homopolymerization rate, and an increased temperature at the start of the reactive processing allows to increase the hydrogen abstraction rate, so that more potential grafting points can be generated. As this increased grafting density goes along with a lower reaction extent, a better process efficiency is obtained albeit at a lowering of the average chain length of the grafts and an increase of the crosslinking density. In any case, a broader span of polymer characteristics (e.g., ranges of grafting/crosslinking densities and functionalization yields) can be achieved by including variations in reactant addition and temperature profiles.
Clinical and neurophysiological variability in Andersen‐Tawil syndrome
Authors: Kokubun Norito , Aoki Reika , Nagashima Takahide , Komagamine Tomoko , Kuroda Yusuke , Horie Minoru , Hirata Koichi
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Andersen‐Tawil syndrome (ATS) is characterized by a triad of periodic paralysis, ventricular arrhythmias, and dysmorphism. However, patients often lack one or more of these features.

Methods

Clinical and neurophysiological features were reviewed of five members in two families with heterozygous mutations in KCNJ2 (R218Q and R67W).

Results

Only one patient had all features of the triad of ATS. One patient had low‐set ears, and the others had minor anomalies. Bidirectional ventricular tachycardias were seen in two patients. Two patients (R67W) never had episodes of paralysis. The long exercise test was abnormal in three patients with episodes of paralysis, but normal in two without paralytic episodes.

Discussion

ATS patients without skeletal muscle symptoms can have normal neurophysiological examinations. They can show variability in phenotype or the severity of arrhythmias. Such variability among patients who share the same gene mutations may result in underdiagnosis of ATS.
Fundraising, race, and discourse: The challenges and opportunities' of social construction
Authors: Jensen Courtney
Published: September 2019

Fundraisers have turned their attention to minority communities as potential resources despite the fact that minority communities are both underserved by and underrepresented in nonprofit organizations. This paper argues that the current approach to minority fundraising, which uses broad racial categories, is limiting. Minority fundraising practice and research face three distinct challenges (racial categorization, socially constructed markets, and privilege) that can be addressed through a focus on language, specifically discourse analysis.
Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of a Copper Cube: [Cu4(OH)4(C16H18N2)4]4+ (ClO4)4 C3H6O [C16H18N2=(E)‐1,6‐[Di(pyridin‐4‐yl)hex‐3‐ene]
Authors: Plater M. John , Darr Amara , Crawford Catriona , Murray Craig , Simpson Struan , Harrison William T. A. , Clemente‐Juan Juan M.
Published: September 2019

The synthesis of a Cu4(OH)4 cube which is coordinated by four molecules of the dipyridyl ligand 1,6‐[di(pyridin‐4‐yl)hex‐3‐ene] is reported. This compound has a trans double bond which restricts the conformational freedom of the ligand and favours coordination within a unique copper cube. The structure was solved by an X‐Ray single crystal structure determination and low temperature magnetic susceptibility measurements examined its magnetic properties. The cube classification corresponds to the type I classification of Mergehenn and Haase and the short/long distribution of Cu ⋅⋅⋅ Cu separations in the cube as defined by Ruiz. The magnetic susceptibility measurements show paramagnetic behaviour down to 50 K but below this the copper cube shows weak ferromagnetic exchange interactions. The low temperature magnetic susceptibility characteristics are examined in detail then modelled and compared to other similar Cu4O4 copper cubes.
Physico‐mechanical properties of tamarind pod shell‐based composite
Authors: Goudar Santosha , Jain Ravi Kant , Das Debashis
Published: September 2019

The main objective and novelty of this study is to investigate the effect of particle size and alkali treatment on physical, mechanical properties of tamarind pod shell (TPS)‐reinforced epoxy composites. The treated and untreated composites were fabricated with different particle sizes with TPS content of 10 wt%. The mechanical, physical, and morphological properties of specimens were investigated. It was revealed that the density and mechanical properties of the treated and untreated composites increased with the decrease in the particle size; whereas, the water absorption percentage and void content decreased for the same. The treated composite with the particle size of 75 μm exhibited the maximum tensile, flexural, and compressive strength. Further, the multiscale finite element (FE) model was developed using the Digimat‐FE software to simulate the tensile behavior of composites with different particle size. The simulation results revealed that the stress concentration level was more in the vicinity of the voids, and the higher stress concentration was observed in the matrix phase with the increase in particle size. Also, it was found that the predicted results from the multiscale FE model showed a good agreement with the experimental results. The results suggested that the TPS filled epoxy composites have potential utility in the fields of automotive interior panels, particulate board panels, household goods, packaging materials, building partitions, and many other applications.
Initiation of generic imatinib may improve medication adherence for patients with chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Cole Ashley L. , Jazowski Shelley A. , Dusetzina Stacie B.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To compare adherence to tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) between patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who initiated branded or generic imatinib.

Methods

We used MarketScan commercial claims data (January 2011‐June 2018) to identify patients with CML who newly initiated branded imatinib before 1 August 2015 or generic imatinib on or after 2 February 2016, and were continuously enrolled in health plans for 6 months before through 6 months following their initial fill. After inverse probability of treatment weighting, we compared adherence (proportion of days covered [PDC]) and persistence (no gaps ≥30 and ≥60 consecutive days in therapy) to TKI therapy.

Results

Patients initiating generic imatinib consistently had higher average PDC per month and over the 6‐month follow‐up period than initiators of branded imatinib. Average 6‐month PDC was 92% (95%CI:89%‐94%) for generic initiators and 85% (95%CI:83%‐86%) for brand initiators. Compared with branded imatinib initiators, a larger proportion of generic imatinib initiators were adherent and persistent to TKI therapy (PDC ≥ 90%:78% versus 64%; no≥60‐day gap:94% versus 86%).

Conclusions

Patients initiating generic imatinib achieved clinically significant improvements in adherence to TKI therapy relative to branded drug users, presumably due to lower out‐of‐pocket costs. Given the importance of optimal adherence in CML, considering barriers to adherence (eg, patient‐cost sharing and health benefit design) when selecting initial treatment may improve long‐term medication adherence. Pharmacoepidemiologic studies should consider how best to account for expected cost‐sharing and its impact on adherence and subsequent clinical outcomes.
Greater mindfulness associated with lower pain, fatigue, and psychological distress in women with metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Zimmaro Lauren A. , Carson James W. , Olsen Maren K. , Sanders Linda L. , Keefe Francis J. , Porter Laura S.
Published: September 2019

Objective

Women with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) report high levels of disease‐related symptoms including pain, fatigue, psychological distress, and sleep disturbance. Mindfulness may be particularly relevant to women with MBC given the high symptom burden and psychological toll of this disease; however, the topic is understudied among this patient population. Therefore, we aimed to test the associations between mindfulness and patient‐reported symptoms among a sample of women with MBC.

Methods

Sixty‐four women with MBC completed baseline questionnaires of mindfulness (Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire‐Short Form [FFMQ‐SF]) and symptoms of pain severity and interference, fatigue, psychological distress, and sleep disturbance as part of a randomized controlled trial of a Mindful Yoga intervention. Correlational analyses of data collected at baseline tested associations between the five mindfulness facets (observing, describing, acting with awareness, nonjudging, and nonreactivity) and patient‐reported measures of symptoms.

Results

Overall, higher mindfulness was associated with lower symptom levels including lower pain severity, pain interference, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance. However, degree of association varied by mindfulness facet. Nonreactivity, nonjudging, and describing showed the most frequent associations and largest effect sizes across symptoms, while observing showed the least frequent associations and lowest effect sizes.

Conclusions

Mindfulness—and in particular nonreactivity, nonjudging, and describing—may be a personal resource for women with MBC in coping with complex symptoms of this life‐threatening illness. Findings are discussed relative to their implications for interventions aimed at increasing mindfulness in this vulnerable population.
Knockdown of COPS3 inhibits the progress of prostate cancer through reducing phosphorylated p38 MAPK expression and impairs the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition process
Authors: Zhu Zhenjie , Hong Yang , Zhang Fengshi , An Lizhe , Yang Qingya , Huang Xiaobo , Xu Qingquan
Published: September 2019

Background

The amplification of gene COPS3 is closely related to the development of osteosarcoma and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, the effects of COPS3 on prostate cancer (PCa) are poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, the protein expression of COPS3 in PCa tissues, adjacent normal tissues, and bone metastasis tissues of PCa was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion assay were performed in 22rv1 and PC‐3 cells after knocking down COPS3 by small interfering RNAs. Furthermore, we performed western blot analysis to explore the potential mechanisms underlying it.

Results

This study found that the overall survival of the COPS3 high‐expression group was significantly shorter than the low‐expression group. This study discovered that the protein expression of COPS3 in PCa tissues was higher than that in the matched nontumor prostate tissues. In addition, tissues from bone metastasis of PCa had a high percentage of overexpressing COPS3. After knockdown of the COPS3 gene in 22rv1 and PC3 cells, two classic human PCa cell lines which had a high level of COPS3, the abilities of migration, invasion, and proliferation were inhibited. Finally, protein levels of phosphorylated P38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and N‐cadherin were significantly decreased after knocking down the expression of COPS3, and the protein levels of E‐cadherin were significantly increased.

Conclusions

In conclusion, COPS3 may be closely related to the progress of PCa. Knockdown of COPS3 inhibited the progress of PCa through reducing the levels of phosphorylated P38 MAPK and impaired the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition process.
Quantifying Drug‐Induced Bone Marrow Toxicity Using a Novel Haematopoiesis Systems Pharmacology Model
Authors: Fornari Chiara , Oplustil O'Connor Lenka , Pin Carmen , Smith Aaron , Yates James W.T. , Cheung S.Y. Amy , Jodrell Duncan I. , Mettetal Jerome T. , Collins Teresa A.
Published: September 2019

Haematological toxicity associated with cancer therapeutics is monitored by changes in blood cell count, and their primary effect is on proliferative progenitors in the bone marrow. Using observations in rat bone marrow and blood, we characterize a mathematical model that comprises cell proliferation and differentiation of the full haematopoietic phylogeny, with interacting feedback loops between lineages in homeostasis as well as following carboplatin exposure. We accurately predicted the temporal dynamics of several mature cell types related to carboplatin‐induced bone marrow toxicity and identified novel insights into haematopoiesis. Our model confirms a significant degree of plasticity within bone marrow cells, with the number and type of both early progenitors and circulating cells affecting cell balance, via feedback mechanisms, through fate decisions of the multipotent progenitors. We also demonstrated cross‐species translation of our predictions to patients, applying the same core model structure and considering differences in drug‐dependent and physiology‐dependent parameters.
Determination of Defect Densities in Thin (i) a‐Si:H Used as the Passivation Layer in a‐Si:H/c‐Si Heterojunction Solar Cells from Static Planar Conductance Measurements
Authors: Levtchenko Alexandra , Le Gall Sylvain , Brüggemann Rudolf , Kleider Jean-Paul
Published: September 2019

A set of (p) a‐Si:H/(i) a‐Si:H/(n) c‐Si heterostructures is investigated by coplanar conductance measurements. The thickness of the (i) a‐Si:H buffer layer is varied between 2 and 50 nm, well beyond the values used in heterojunction solar cells. The change in this thickness plays a role on band bending at the heterointerface and therefore impacts the level of inversion of carrier population at the c‐Si surface. Measurements are compared with 1D analytical calculations and 2D electrical modeling. It is demonstrated that the deep defect density, related to silicon dangling bonds, in the (i) a‐Si:H layer strongly increases from 1 × 1017 to 4 × 1018 cm−3 when the (i) a‐Si:H layer thickness is decreased from 50 to 2 nm. This result is interpreted in terms of defect formation and dependence of the defect density upon the position of the Fermi level with respect to the valence band edge. Quantitative analysis in the framework of the defect‐pool model demonstrates that the strong increase of defect density is also promoted by an increase in the width of the valence band tail in the thin (i) a‐Si:H layer, suggesting that a very thin layer also suffers from increased disorder.
Mass spectral studies of silyl derivatives of partially hydrolyzed products of nitrogen mustards: Important markers of nitrogen mustard exposure
Authors: Chandra Buddhadeb , Sinha Roy Kanchan , Shaik Mahabul , Waghmare Chandrakant , Palit Meehir
Published: September 2019

Rationale

Nitrogen mustards (NMs) are vesicant class of chemical warfare agents. From the viewpoint of the Chemical Weapons Convention partially hydrolyzed products of nitrogen mustards (pHpNMs) are considered as important markers of nitrogen mustard exposure. The detection of pHpNMs from biological or environmental samples is highly useful for obtaining forensic evidence of exposure to NMs.

Methods

Gas chromatography interfaced with tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) is a widely used tool for the identification and sensitive detection of metabolites of NMs in complex matrices. The pHpNMs were derivatized using silylating agents as they are highly polar and non‐amenable to GC. The mass spectral studies of these silyl derivatives of pHpNMs were performed using GC/MS/MS in both electron ionization (EI) and chemical ionization (CI) mode.

Results

Various approaches have been proposed to assess the fragmentation pathways of the trimethylsilyl (TMS) and tert‐butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) derivatives of pHpNMs. All the proposed fragmentation pathways were based on the product and/or precursor ion scanning of corresponding ions in both EI and CI mode. In the case of EI, most of the fragmentation pathways involved either α‐cleavage or inductive cleavage.

Conclusions

This is the first report on the MS study of the silyl derivatives of pHpNMs. The study of the two different derivatives of pHpNMs using both EI‐ and CI‐MS provides a reliable, unambiguous identification of pHpNMs in complex environmental and biomedical matrices (such as plasma and urine) during any verification activities.
Effects of preservation methodology on stable isotope compositions of sea stars
Authors: Le Bourg Baptiste , Lepoint Gilles , Michel Loïc N.
Published: September 2019

Rationale

Stable isotope analysis is used to investigate the trophic ecology of organisms and, in order to use samples from archived collections, it is important to know whether preservation methods alter the results. This study investigates the long‐term effects of four preservation methods on isotopic compositions and isotopic niche parameters of sea stars.

Methods

We assessed the effects of preservation method (freezing, drying, formaldehyde, ethanol) and duration (0, 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, 24 months) on the stable isotope ratios of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur of sea star tissues. Isotopic ratios were measured using continuous‐flow elemental analysis and isotope ratio mass spectrometry. We also monitored the evolution of commonly used ecological metrics (isotopic niche parameters) throughout the experiment.

Results

Clear changes in δ13C values were observed for samples stored in formaldehyde and ethanol. None of the preservation methods had significant or consistent effects on δ15N values. Formaldehyde preservation induced a decrease in δ34S values. All these changes could be mitigated using correction factors. Isotopic niche parameters slightly changed over time when computed with δ13C and δ15N values, but inconsistent variations occurred when computed with δ13C and δ34S values.

Conclusions

Overall, these results show that preservation may affect the stable isotope ratios of sea stars. Correction factors can be used to mitigate the effects of the preservation method on stable isotope ratios. Isotopic niche parameters are overall unchanged. Consequently, in most cases, museum samples are suitable for calculation of isotopic niche parameters.
Developing an intelligent tutoring system for robotic‐assisted surgery instruction
Authors: Julian Danielle , Smith Roger
Published: September 2019

Background

Robotic‐assisted laparoscopic surgery (RALS) is an operative innovation that has sparked global interest. Over the last decade, RALS cases have rapidly increased with over 750 000 robotic procedures completed in 2017. Until recently, Intuitive's da Vinci surgical system has been the only Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved robotic‐assisted surgical device for human procedures. Robotic procedures with the da Vinci require a specific, dedicated training due to the introduction of the technological components and psychomotor skills needed to successfully utilize this system. When a surgeon becomes interested in learning robotics, there are limited avenues for training. Surgeons typically receive instruction on the necessary psychomotor and Operation Room (OR) communication skills in isolation from the cognitive and perceptual skills and may only perform these skills in an integrated manner during a 1‐ or 2‐day course.

Methods

This paper discusses the development of a computer‐based intelligent tutoring system (ITS) to train the cognitive and procedural skills needed to complete basic robotic suturing to novice robotic surgeons. The system was developed using the generalized intelligent framework for tutoring framework of tools. This information was captured as video, instruction sets, and flowcharts, which were reviewed for accuracy by surgeons and then encoded into an ITS using the generalized intelligent framework for tutoring tools.

Conclusion

The purpose of this paper was threefold—(a) explain the process used to obtain the critical data behind a basic robotic task, (b) develop an entry‐level ITS to train the cognitive process and procedural steps behind multiple fundamental robotic surgery skills, and (c) provide future novice ITS developers lessons learned and future recommendations beyond the initial ITS prototype.
Stabilization of polytopes of plants by their vertices
Authors: Fonte Christophe , Meddeb Houda , Zasadzinski Michel
Published: September 2019

This paper aims to assess the stability of a polytope of linear systems by their vertices. These results are based on the Hermite‐Biehler and Edge theorems. A sufficient condition satisfying a constraint on the even (or odd) part of the closed‐loop characteristic polynomials associated with the stabilization of its vertices is proved. Finally, a constructive method to stabilize a polytope of plants with simultaneous and robust linear time‐invariant controllers is established.
Stability and stabilization of nonlinear discrete‐time stochastic systems
Authors: Jiang Xiushan , Tian Senping , Zhang Tianliang , Zhang Weihai
Published: September 2019

This paper mainly studies the locally/globally asymptotic stability and stabilization in probability for nonlinear discrete‐time stochastic systems. Firstly, for more general stochastic difference systems, two very useful results on locally and globally asymptotic stability in probability are obtained, which can be viewed as the discrete versions of continuous‐time Itô systems. Then, for a class of quasi‐linear discrete‐time stochastic control systems, both state‐ and output‐feedback asymptotic stabilization are studied, for which, sufficient conditions are presented in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Two simulation examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of our main results.
Discovery of retinoic acid receptor agonists as proliferators of cardiac progenitor cells through a phenotypic screening approach
Authors: Drowley Lauren , McPheat Jane , Nordqvist Anneli , Peel Samantha , Karlsson Ulla , Martinsson Sofia , Müllers Erik , Dellsén Anita , Knight Sinead , Barrett Ian , Sánchez José , Magnusson Björn , Greber Boris , Wang Qing-Dong , Plowright Alleyn T.
Published: September 2019

Identification of small molecules with the potential to selectively proliferate cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) will aid our understanding of the signaling pathways and mechanisms involved and could ultimately provide tools for regenerative therapies for the treatment of post-MI cardiac dysfunction. We have used an in vitro human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived CPC model to screen a 10,000-compound library containing molecules representing different target classes and compounds reported to modulate the phenotype of stem or primary cells. The primary readout of this phenotypic screen was proliferation as measured by nuclear count. We identified retinoic acid receptor (RAR) agonists as potent proliferators of CPCs. The CPCs retained their progenitor phenotype following proliferation and the identified RAR agonists did not proliferate human cardiac fibroblasts, the major cell type in the heart. In addition, the RAR agonists were able to proliferate an independent source of CPCs, HuES6. The RAR agonists had a time-of-differentiation-dependent effect on the HuES6-derived CPCs. At 4 days of differentiation, treatment with retinoic acid induced differentiation of the CPCs to atrial cells. However, after 5 days of differentiation treatment with RAR agonists led to an inhibition of terminal differentiation to cardiomyocytes and enhanced the proliferation of the cells. RAR agonists, at least transiently, enhance the proliferation of human CPCs, at the expense of terminal cardiac differentiation. How this mechanism translates in vivo to activate endogenous CPCs and whether enhancing proliferation of these rare progenitor cells is sufficient to enhance cardiac repair remains to be investigated.

Significance statement Progenitor cells are rare and difficult to isolate, and little is known about the molecular mechanisms required for their proliferation and differentiation. Identification of small molecules that selectively proliferate cardiac progenitor cells will aid in the understanding of the signaling mechanisms involved and could provide tools for regenerative therapies for the treatment of cardiac dysfunction. A phenotypic screen identified retinoic acid receptor agonists as potent proliferators of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiac progenitor cells. The agonists did not proliferate human cardiac fibroblasts, the major cell type in the heart but did proliferate human pluripotent stem cells, HuES6, in a time-of-differentiation-dependent manner.
Are the Sustainable Development Goals self‐consistent and mutually achievable?
Authors: Dawes Jonathan H.P.
Published: September 2019

On September 18, 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which sets out wide‐ranging ambitions for global development. In response to the 2030 Agenda, the International Council for Science (ICSU), in partnership with the International Social Science Council (ISSC), subsequently published a detailed commentary on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the linkages between them.

The ICSU–ISSC Report raises the possibility that the SDG framework as a whole might not be internally self‐consistent, and the report itself calls for a wider “systems perspective.”

In this paper, we use the ICSU commentary as the basis for a quantitative theoretical analysis of the SDGs from a systems perspective. We provide a mathematical definition of self‐consistency and show that the linkages we infer from the ICSU–ISSC report imply that the SDGs are not self‐consistent.

However, using a simple dynamical model to investigate the combined outcome of direct efforts at tackling each Goal and the indirect effects on progress due to network effects, we show that network effects could be used to secure better outcomes on every Goal than would be possible if linkages between Goals did not exist at all. These better outcomes would be possible through an unequal, targeted reallocation of direct efforts. Unequal distribution of direct effort can therefore make the SDGs mutually achievable.

These conclusions contribute to the ongoing debate on the development of global strategies for the achievement of the 2030 Agenda, their implementation, and the definition and monitoring of progress towards the Goals.
From Concentrated Dispersion to Solid β‐Cyclodextrin Polymer‐Capped Silver Nanoparticle Formulation: A Trojan Horse Against Escherichia coli
Authors: Martin‐Trasanco Rudy , Anziani‐Ostuni Giovanna , Esparza‐Ponce Hilda Esperanza , Ortiz Pedro , Montero‐Cabrera María E. , Oyarzún Diego P. , Zúñiga César , Pérez‐Donoso José Manuel , Pizarro Guadalupe del C. , Arratia‐Pérez Ramiro
Published: September 2019

Preparation of concentrated silver nanoparticles in water remains a challenge today. The intrinsic reactivity of silver, as well as the high surface energy of nanoparticles, make it difficult to handle them without altering their pristine properties. Herein, we report the preparation of concentrated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) dispersion (2 mM; 1.5⋅1015 NPs/mL) by reducing Ag+ in‐situ of a β‐cyclodextrin‐epichlorohydrin polymer (βCDP) as a capping agent. The prepared nanoparticles (AgNPs@βCDP) with a Surface Plasmon Resonance band at 396 nm, and a hydrodynamic diameter of 21.4 ±1.8 nm, retained both features after being precipitated and re‐dispersed in water. The AgNPs core had a spherical morphology, with a 12.7 ±1.5 nm diameter in size, as determined by TEM. The AgNPs@βCDP showed outstanding bactericidal properties against Escherichia coli (MIC= 0.37 nM), one of the lowest ever achieved for silver nanoparticles. We suggest that the polymer acts as a Trojan horse with AgNPs as payload.
A Novel and Efficient Colorimetric Assay for Quantitative Determination of Amlodipine in Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Samples
Authors: Yaqoob Sana , Rahim Sana , Bhayo Adnan Murad , Shah Muhammad Raza , Hameed Abdul , Malik Muhammad Imran
Published: September 2019

Development of facile, on‐spot, robust, and efficient optical nanosensors for drugs and pesticides is one of the active research area. In this study, a nanosensor based on fairly stable silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) conjugated with specially designed thiourea (TU)‐based molecule, N‐((4‘‐methoxy‐2‘‐nitrophenyl) carbamothioyl) dodecanamide (TU3), was prepared using one pot protocol and characterized by Ultraviolet (UV)‐Visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The TU3 conjugated AgNPs (TU3‐AgNPs) were found to be selective spectrophotometric sensor for an antimicrobial drug, amlodipine (Ad), among the pool of different drugs. TU3‐AgNPs based nanosensor allows for the rapid quantitative assay having a detection limit of 0.3 μM in an analytical range of 0.1‐100 μM. The proposed sensor is specific in presence of number of other interfering drugs and other matrix. Upto the best of our literature survey, this is first ever colorimetric sensor for quantification of amlodipine in complex matrix. The specificity of the sensor allows for quantitative detection of amlodipine in environmental, biological and pharmaceutical samples.
Two‐Step Preparation of Diverse 3‐Amidofurans from Chitin
Authors: Pham Thuy Trang , Lindsay Ashley C. , Kim Shi‐Wei , Persello Laly , Chen Xi , Yan Ning , Sperry Jonathan
Published: September 2019

The synthesis of 3‐amidofurans is laborious due to the difficulty installing a nitrogen substituent at the C3 position of the furan heterocycle. 3‐Acetamido‐5‐acetylfuran (3A5AF), readily available from chitin, is a versatile biorenewable platform that can be converted into a range of functionally rich 3‐amidofurans, streamlining access to this underexplored heteroaromatic chemical space.
The dynamic interplay of physical and psychosocial safety climates in frontline healthcare
Authors: McLinton Sarven S. , Afsharian Ali , Dollard Maureen F. , Tuckey Michelle R.
Published: September 2019

Little is known about how safety climates concerning physical safety and psychosocial safety interact in the prediction of working conditions and subsequent worker health. Frontline healthcare was selected as the setting for this study on the dynamic interplay between physical and psychosocial safety climates because of a recent call for attention to working conditions in this industry. Poor safety climates for healthcare workers spill over into adverse outcomes for worker health, and when workers are compromised, then so too is their provision of quality patient care. We developed an integrated model of the relationships between psychosocial and physical safety climates, working conditions, and health and safety outcomes. A multilevel model was tested (N = 463 workers nested within n = 60 teams), and lagged analysis was conducted across four time points, each 6 months apart. The combination of safety climates significantly predict objective outcomes from hospital safety system records on staff accidents, absence, and patient incidents (quality of care), suggesting a dynamic interplay in the prediction of impacts on the worker, organization, and end‐user. Integrated physical and psychosocial safety climate measures can be incorporated into hospital occupational health and safety reporting and response systems as effective lead indicators and key performance metrics for work health and safety.
When your problem becomes my problem: The impact of airline IT disruptions on on‐time performance of competing airlines
Authors: Tae C. Jennifer , Pang Min‐Seok , Greenwood Brad N.
Published: September 2019

Research Summary

We study the effect of firm disruptions on competitor performance in the presence of shared resources in the U.S. airline industry. While scholars have investigated both the effects of industry‐wide and firm‐specific disruptions, little work has examined the effect on competitors, who are increasingly reliant on interconnected resources in the digital age. Results from a series of recent information technology (IT) outages indicate that performance is materially affected by a competitor's disruption. While the disruption of a full‐service carrier significantly delays flights of all airlines leveraging its hubs, the exact opposite is observed during the disruption of a low cost carrier. Further, the effect is strongly moderated by the type of airlines reacting to the disruption. Implications for managers and theory are discussed within.

Managerial Summary

What happens to my operations when a competitor's operations are disrupted? While research has examined how a disrupted firm can recover, little attention has been paid to competitors, except their ability to exploit the disruption for economic gain. This is problematic, as firms increasingly leverage interconnected resources and infrastructure. We show that an airline's IT outages affect on‐time performance of competitors' flights to and from its hub airports. However, the effects depend on both who is disrupted, and who is reacting to that disruption. The disruptions of full‐service carriers (FSCs) delay competitors' flights, but that of a low‐cost carrier (LCC) leads to early arrivals and departures. Further, LCCs are significantly more nimble reacting to disruptions compared to FSCs.
Seismic response control of asymmetric buildings using tuned mass dampers
Authors: Taha Ahmad Edris , Elias Said , Matsagar Vasant , Jain Arvind Kumar
Published: September 2019

The aim of the present study is to investigate the efficiency of the torsional tuned mass dampers (T‐TMDs) in response control of asymmetric buildings under bidirectional earthquake ground excitations. The efficiency of the T‐TMDs is compared with bidirectional tuned mass dampers (BTMDs). The T‐TMDs are oriented to the rotation of the structures about vertical axis with a single torsional mass attached to spring–dashpot elements, whereas the BTMD connects a single mass to two orthogonal sets of spring–dashpot elements oriented to principal axes of the building. The buildings are idealized three‐dimensional models with two translational and one torsional degrees of freedom for each floor. Three different configurations (cruciform‐shaped, L‐shaped, and T‐shaped) of multistory buildings are considered. The 5‐, 15‐, and 20‐story buildings with and without the tuned mass damper schemes are subjected to bidirectional earthquake ground excitation. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the T‐TMDs and BTMD, the rotation, displacement, acceleration, and base shear force responses are computed. Parametric studies are conducted for all the configurations installed with the T‐TMDs and BTMD by varying their mass ratio, damping ratio, and ground motions. It is concluded that the T‐TMDs are more effective in mitigating the torsional response of asymmetric buildings as compared with the BTMD.