bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X-Linked Hypophosphatemia: Uniquely Mild Disease Associated With PHEX 3′-UTR Mutation c.*231A>G (A Retrospective Case–Control Study)
Authors: Smith Pamela S , Gottesman Gary S , Zhang Fan , Cook Fiona , Ramirez Beatriz , Wenkert Deborah , Wollberg Valerie , Huskey Margaret , Mumm Steven , Whyte Michael P
Published: January 2020

X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), the most prevalent heritable renal phosphate (Pi) wasting disorder, is caused by deactivating mutations of PHEX. Consequently, circulating phosphatonin FGF23 becomes elevated and hypophosphatemia in affected children leads to rickets with skeletal deformity and reduced linear growth while affected adults suffer from osteomalacia and forms of ectopic mineralization. In 2015, we reported uniquely mild XLH in six children and four of their mothers carrying the non-coding PHEX 3′-UTR mutation c.*231A>G. Herein, we characterize this mild XLH variant by comparing its features in 30 individuals to 30 age- and sex-matched patients with XLH but without the 3′-UTR mutation. The “UTR” and “XLH” groups, both comprising 17 children (2 to 17 years, 3 girls) and 13 adults (23 to 63 years, 10 women), had mean ages of 23 years. Only 43% of the UTR group versus 90% of the XLH group had received medical treatment for their disorder, including 0% versus 85% of the females, respectively (ps < .0001). The UTR group was taller: mean ± SD height Z-score (HZ) −1.0 ± 1.0 versus −2.0 ± 1.4 (p = .0034), with significantly greater height for females (−0.9 ± 0.7 versus −2.3 ± 1.4; p = .0050) but not males (−1.2 ± 1.1 versus −1.9 ± 1.5; p = .1541), respectively. Mean ± SD “arm span Z-score” (AZ) did not differ between the UTR −0.8 ± 1.3 versus XLH −1.3 ± 1.8 groups (p = .2269). Consequently, the UTR group was more proportionate with a mean ∆Z (AZ – HZ) of 0.1 ± 0.6 versus 0.7 ± 1.0 (p = .0158), respectively. Compared to the XLH group, the UTR group had significantly higher fasting serum Pi and renal tubular threshold maximum for phosphorus per glomerular filtration rate (TmP/GFR) (ps ≤ .0060), serum FGF23 concentrations within the reference range (p = .0068), and similar serum alkaline phosphatase levels (p = .6513). UTR lumbar spine bone mineral density Z-score was higher (p = .0343). Thus, the 3′-UTR variant of XLH is distinctly mild, especially in girls and women, posing challenges for its recognition and management. © 2020 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
MiR‐145 inhibits the migration and invasion of papillary thyroid carcinoma cells through NF‐κB pathway regulation
Authors: Chen Gengyu , Gao Ying , Wang Gangpu , Dai Guofeng , Tong Li
Published: January 2020

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most prevalent cancer in the endocrine system, and the number of patients diagnosed with PTC has been increasing rapidly in recent years. Previous studies have reported that miR‐145 plays an important role in many kinds of cancers, but its function in PTC remains unclear. In this study, we found that compared to paracancerous tissues, the level of miR‐145 expression was significantly downregulated in PTC tissues. When miR‐145 is overexpressed, migration and invasion of PTC cells were suppressed in vitro. In addition, we found that miR‐145 downregulated the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway in PTC cells. Taken together, our data suggest that miR‐145 functions as a tumor suppressor in PTC with the suppressive effect related to downregulation of the NF‐κB pathway.
Calibration of the dianionic phosphate group: Validation on the recognition site of the homodimeric enzyme phosphoglucose isomerase
Authors: Devillers Marion , Piquemal Jean‐Philip , Salmon Laurent , Gresh Nohad
Published: January 2020

We calibrate and validate the parameters necessary to represent the dianionic phosphate group (DPG) in molecular mechanics. DPG is an essential fragment of signaling biological molecules and protein‐binding ligands. It is a constitutive fragment of biosensors, which bind to the dimer interface of phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI), an intracellular enzyme involved in sugar metabolism, as well as an extracellular protein known as autocrine motility factor (AMF) closely related to metastasis formation. Our long‐term objective is to design DPG‐based biosensors with enhanced affinities for AMF/PGI cancer biomarker in blood. Molecular dynamics with polarizable potentials could be used toward this aim. This requires to first evaluate the accuracy of such potentials upon representing the interactions of DPG with its PGI ligands and tightly bound water molecules. Such evaluations are done by comparisons with high‐level ab initio quantum chemistry (QC) calculations. We focus on the Sum of Interactions Between Fragments Ab initio computed (SIBFA) polarizable molecular mechanics procedure. We present first the results of the DPG calibration. This is followed by comparisons between ΔE(SIBFA) and ΔE(QC) regarding bi‐molecular complexes of DPG with the main‐chain and side‐chain PGI residues, which bind to it in the recognition site. We then consider DPG complexes with an increasing number of PGI residues. The largest QC complexes encompass the entirety of the recognition site, with six structural water molecules totaling up to 211 atoms. A persistent and satisfactory agreement could be shown between ΔE(SIBFA) and ΔE(QC). These validations constitute an essential first step toward large‐scale molecular dynamics simulations of DPG‐based biosensors bound at the PGI dimer interface. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Long non‐coding RNAE330013P06 promotes progression of breast cancer with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chen Runqi , Shi Pengcheng , Zhang Yan , Wu Haiming , Li Xiaoping , Yang Wengfu , Luo Fei , JinmingXue  , Yao Liang , Yang Jun , Wang Wangfu , Zhang Bo , Li Peng , Miao Yongmin , Wang Qianjun , Tian Fuguo
Published: January 2020

Background

In previous research, we found diabetes rather than obesity was an independent risk factor of breast cancer. However, why diabetes could lead to increased risk of breast cancer patients remains elusive. Long non‐coding RNAE330013P06 has been shown to be upregulated in diabetes, and long non‐coding RNAs generally promote progression of cancer.

Methods

About 200 specimens of breast patients were obtained in previous clinical trial; 34 samples diagnosed as type 2 diabetes in breast cancer patient were enrolled in this research. Blood samples from 36 patients diagnosed as breast cancer without diabetes; 35 diabetic patients and 35 healthy peoples were obtained as control. All blood samples were measured by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). Invasion and migration were tested by Transwell assay. Cell proliferation assay was tested by CCK‐8. Protein analysis was determined by Western blot.

Results

Compared with breast cancer patients without diabetes, diabetic patients without breast cancer and healthy peoples, LncRNAE330013P06 was upregulated in breast cancer patient with diabetes. Furthermore, of 34 breast patients, high LncRNAE330013P06 expression was significantly associated with family history, tumor‐node‐metastasis stage and lymph node metastasis. E33 promoted cancer cell growth in vitro via downregulation of P53.

Conclusion

Upregulation of LncRNAE330013P06 driven by type 2 diabetes is one of the factors which promoted progression of breast cancer.
Evaluation of neutrophil extracellular traps as the circulating marker for patients with acute coronary syndrome and acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Lim Hyeon‐Ho , Jeong In‐Hwa , An Gyu‐Dae , Woo Kwang‐Sook , Kim Kyeong‐Hee , Kim Jeong‐Man , Yun Seong‐Hoon , Park Joo‐In , Cha Jae‐Kwan , Kim Moo‐Hyun , Han Jin‐Yeong
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are known to be induced by various factors. In this study, we tried to identify circulating levels of NETs in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and to confirm its suitability as a new circulating marker in their detection.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 95 patients with a diagnosis of ACS (N = 37) or AIS (N = 58) in Dong‐A University Hospital, Busan, Korea. The control group was selected from healthy adults (N = 25) who visited the hospital for health screening. Circulating levels of NETs were evaluated by measuring plasma concentrations of double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) and DNA‐histone complex.

Results

The concentrations of dsDNA were statistically higher in patients with ACS or AIS than those in the control group (both P < .001). In the univariable and multivariable analyses, statistically significant risk factors were troponin I (TnI) level and dsDNA concentration in the ACS group (P = .046 and P = .015, respectively) and only dsDNA concentration in the AIS group (P = .002). In the receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, the area under the curve values for TnI level and dsDNA concentration in the ACS group were 0.878 and 0.968, respectively, and the value for dsDNA concentration in the AIS group was 0.859.

Conclusions

In this study, it was confirmed that the circulating level of NETs was increased in patients with ACS and AIS at initial presentation. Findings in this study show that NETs could be used as a new circulating marker for the initial diagnosis of ACS or AIS.
Ezh2‐dependent H3K27me3 modification dynamically regulates vitamin D3‐dependent epigenetic control of CYP24A1 gene expression in osteoblastic cells
Authors: Moena Daniel , Nardocci Gino , Acevedo Elvis , Lian Jane , Stein Gary , Stein Janet , Montecino Martin
Published: January 2020

Epigenetic control is critical for the regulation of gene transcription in mammalian cells. Among the most important epigenetic mechanisms are those associated with posttranslational modifications of chromosomal histone proteins, which modulate chromatin structure and increased accessibility of promoter regulatory elements for competency to support transcription. A critical histone mark is trimethylation of histone H3 at lysine residue 27 (H3K27me3), which is mediated by Ezh2, the catalytic subunit of the polycomb group complex PRC2 to repress transcription. Treatment of cells with the active vitamin D metabolite 1,25(OH)2D3, results in transcriptional activation of the CYP24A1 gene, which encodes a 24‐hydroxylase enzyme, that is, essential for physiological control of vitamin D3 levels. We report that the Ezh2‐mediated deposition of H3K27me3 at the CYP24A1 gene promoter is a requisite regulatory component during transcriptional silencing of this gene in osteoblastic cells in the absence of 1,25(OH)2D3. 1,25(OH)2D3 dependent transcriptional activation of the CYP24A1 gene is accompanied by a rapid release of Ezh2 from the promoter, together with the binding of the H3K27me3‐specific demethylase Utx/Kdm6a and thereby subsequent erasing of the H3K27me3 mark. Importantly, we find that these changes in H3K27me3 enrichment at the CYP24A1 gene promoter are highly dynamic, as this modification is rapidly reacquired following the withdrawal of 1,25(OH)2D3.
Elevated levels of BDNF and cathepsin‐das possible peripheral markers of neurodegeneration in plasma of patients with glutaric acidemia type I
Authors: Guerreiro Gilian , Diaz Jaques Carlos Eduardo , Wajner Moacir , Vargas Carmen Regla
Published: January 2020

Glutaric acidemia type I (GA1) is caused by severe deficiency of glutaryl‐CoA dehydrogenase activity, resulting in an accumulation of glutaric acid and glutarylcarnitine (C5DC) in the organism. Patients affected by GA1 are asymptomatic in the neonate period but usually manifest chronically progressive neurodegeneration apart from severe encephalopathic crises associated with acute striatum necrosis. Neurological manifestations like dyskinesia, dystonia, hypotonia, muscle stiffness, and spasticity are present. Treatment is based on protein/lysine restriction andl‐carnitine supplementation. In this work, we evaluated markers of neurodegeneration and inflammation, namely BDNF (brain‐derived neurotrophic factor), NCAM (neuronal adhesion molecule), PDGF‐AA (platelet‐derived growth factor), and cathepsin‐din plasma of six treated GA1 patients. We first found marked increases of plasma C5DC concentrations in GA1 patients, as well as increased levels of the markers BDNF and cathepsin‐das compared to those of age‐matched healthy children. Furthermore, C5DC concentrations were highly correlated with the levels of cathepsin‐d. These results may demonstrate that brain tissue degeneration is present in GA1 patients and that there is a relationship between increased metabolites concentrations with this process. To the best of our knowledge, this is so far the first study showing altered peripheral parameters of neurodegeneration and inflammation in GA1 patients.
Synchrotron radiation‐based analysis of fatigue in dental restorative materials
Authors: Yoo Hyunjong , Kim Hongsik , Min Se Dong , Lee Onseok
Published: January 2020

Few studies performed a microstructural analysis of dental restorations to evaluate fatigue impact under various tensions, because of a lack of analytical equipment. In this study, the fatigue of restorative materials was evaluated using the force tester's fatigue method at 0.30, 0.3, 0.40, and 0.45 N. The fatigue effect analysis of tooth restorations was performed with each sample by randomly dividing the sequence into grades 0–4 and the evaluators were blinded to the test results. The evaluation methods involved visual and stereoscopic approaches, and used synchrotron radiation (SR). The evaluation facilitated the observation of microscopic cracks in the material using SR. The initiation of cracks was attributed to air bubbles, invisible to the naked eye or under the microscope. The fatigue effect analysis using SR enabled closer observations compared with other types of evaluation. We expect that this strategy will provide a basis for the study of physical and mechanical properties of dental materials.
Synthesis and antitumor activities of novel bis‐quinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones
Authors: Rahmannejadi Nasrin , Yavari Issa , Khabnadideh Soghra
Published: January 2020

With the aim of obtaining new antitumor agents, a series of bis‐quinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones (3a‐3 f) were designed and synthesized. These products contain 4‐oxo‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydro‐quinazoline and 3H‐quinazolin‐4‐one moieties linked together via a propyl chain. Cytotoxic activities of 3a‐3 f were evaluated against lung adenocarcinoma (A549), breast carcinoma (MCF‐7) and ovarian cancer (SKOV3) cell lines using MTT method. Cisplatin was used as a positive control. Among the tested compounds 3a, 3b, and 3e showed the best cytotoxic activities against all cancerous cell lines with IC50 values even less than cisplatin. Compounds 3d and 3f also showed desirable cytotoxic activities especially against A549 and MCF‐7.
Review of disclosure and apology literature: Gaps and needs
Authors: Wojcieszak Doug
Published: January 2020

A review of the literature related to the disclosure movement was conducted to find gaps and needs while identifying areas where needs are being met. There are several articles that address claims and other economic factors. Moreover, there are many papers that define barriers to disclosure with suggested workarounds. There is also a wealth of training content that teaches how to say “sorry.” However, gaps and needs were identified. The “gap list” was developed with a focus on concepts that are novel or not mentioned in the literature as well as issues in the disclosure movement that would benefit from greater attention: (1) lack of research and disclosure training content for health care professionals beyond acute care; (2) messaging and disclosure programs, including the meaning of “apology”; (3) insufficient integration between disclosure programs and second victim support programs; (4) confidentiality clauses; (5) the National Practitioner Data Bank and state licensure boards being viewed as an impediment to disclosure; (6) understanding awareness of the disclosure movement by consumers, personal injury bar, and payors; (7) measuring what medical and nursing schools are teaching about disclosure; and (8) encouraging states to pass apology laws that support the development of disclosure programs.
Themacrophage-expressed gene(mpeg)1identifies a subpopulation of B cells in the adult zebrafish
Authors: Ferrero Giuliano , Gomez Etienne , lyer Sowmya , Rovira Mireia , Miserocchi Magali , Langenau David M. , Bertrand Julien Y. , Wittamer Valérie
Published: January 2020

The mononuclear phagocytic system consists of many cells, in particular macrophages, scattered throughout the body. However, there is increasing evidence for the heterogeneity of tissue-resident macrophages, leading to a pressing need for new tools to discriminate mononuclear phagocytic system subsets from other hematopoietic lineages. Macrophage-expressed gene (Mpeg)1.1 is an evolutionary conserved gene encoding perforin-2, a pore-forming protein associated with host defense against pathogens. Zebrafish mpeg1.1:GFP and mpeg1.1:mCherry reporters were originally established to specifically label macrophages. Since then more than 100 peer-reviewed publications have made use of mpeg1.1-driven transgenics for in vivo studies, providing new insights into key aspects of macrophage ontogeny, activation, and function. Whereas the macrophage-specific expression pattern of the mpeg1.1 promoter has been firmly established in the zebrafish embryo, it is currently not known whether this specificity is maintained through adulthood. Here we report direct evidence that beside macrophages, a subpopulation of B-lymphocytes is marked by mpeg1.1 reporters in most adult zebrafish organs. These mpeg1.1+ lymphoid cells endogenously express mpeg1.1 and can be separated from mpeg1.1+ macrophages by virtue of their light-scatter characteristics using FACS. Remarkably, our analyses also revealed that B-lymphocytes, rather than mononuclear phagocytes, constitute the main mpeg1.1-positive population in irf8null myeloid-defective mutants, which were previously reported to recover tissue-resident macrophages in adulthood. One notable exception is skin macrophages, whose development and maintenance appear to be independent from irf8, similar to mammals. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that irf8 functions in myelopoiesis are evolutionary conserved and highlight the need for alternative macrophage-specific markers to study the mononuclear phagocytic system in adult zebrafish.
Localized phonons in Raman spectra of nanoparticles and disordered media
Authors: Korepanov Vitaly I.
Published: January 2020

Several approaches may be used to link the Raman spectra to the characteristic size scale of nanomaterials. To treat the vibrations of the nanocrystal as localized phonons is a basic idea of the phonon confinement model (PCM). This review describes different approximations proposed since the pioneering work of Richter et al. in 1981. Early implementations of PCM received criticism for the arbitrariness of the introduced parameters and physically unsound assumptions. Later, the physical consistent version was proposed in which the model was coupled with quantum‐chemical calculations. Representative cases of applying the PCM are discussed: model benchmark system (nanodiamond), localized acoustic phonons in nanoparticles (ZnO), nanowires (Ge), and phonon‐like modes in the hydrogen‐bonding network of liquid water.
Demystifying misted mirrors to investigate emerging people issues in SMEs: Implications for strategic change
Authors: Mendy John
Published: January 2020

The concept of “contingent misting” is a missing aspect in Strategy's “organisations design products” and HRM's architectural pairings. This study highlights the structural, cultural, and technical challenges that SME owners and employees are dealing with during new product and service‐improvement launches. The results identify a thematic categorization of individual and organizational‐level characteristics to help ascertain the complex challenges and impacts of innovating. It is propounded that our understanding and knowledge of mirroring architectures faced by SMEs are deepened as we appreciate the contingent nature of people's competence and adaptation.
Investigating the drivers of product innovation in emerging markets: The African perspective
Authors: Atiase Victor Y. , Dzansi Dennis Y.
Published: January 2020

African firms have made significant progress in product innovation over the past decade through human capital development efforts and firm competitiveness. Undoubtedly, both human capital development and firm competitiveness have become the main source of strength for product innovation initiatives among African firms. However, these firms need to continuously focus on talent hunting and development as well as promoting strategic collaborations to reap the full benefit of product innovation activities.
Investigating innovation capability and organizational performance in service firms
Authors: Al‐kalouti Jamil , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Niraj , Garza‐Reyes Jose A. , Upadhyay Arvind , Zwiegelaar Jeremy B.
Published: January 2020

In the service firm, innovation capability influences both financial and nonfinancial performance. It is crucial for businesses to address key challenges anticipated by the changes in socioeconomic and environmental issues. Innovation capability is largely seen as a vital source for generating sustainable competitive advantage. This article investigates the determinants of innovation capability and their relationship with organizational performance in the Jordanian banking sector.
Crafting the forever now: Corporate heritage brand innovation at John Lewis Partnership
Authors: Sammour Ammar , Chen Weifeng , Balmer John M. T. , Botchie David , Faraday Judy
Published: January 2020

Being innovative and adaptive to changing business environment fosters and sustains the success of corporations with heritage. Our article addresses the insights of the innovation strategy of John Lewis Partnership (JLP) as a corporate heritage brand and reveals that strategic innovation the key strand of JLP's brand heritage, which has contributed to the continuous success of JLP for over a century. Developed from the S‐curve innovation theory, we have developed a corporate heritage brand innovation process framework with four stages: invention, sustainability, expansion, and extension. Our research confirms that S‐curve innovation theory can be applied to scrutinize organizational innovation of corporations with heritage brand.
Functional Electrical Stimulation for Presbyphonia: A Prospective Randomized Trial
Authors: Gugatschka Markus , Feiner Marlies , Mayr Winfried , Groselj‐Strele Andrea , Eberhard Katharina , Gerstenberger Claus
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The aim of this prospective study was to examine the effects of transcutaneous functional electrical stimulation (FES) in a group of elderly women with presbyphonia.

Study Design

Prospective randomized study.

Methods

Fourteen participants were enrolled prospectively and attributed randomly to two different treatment groups, where one group (n = 7) received 8 weeks of training (5 days a week), whereas the other group (n = 7) received 4 weeks of ineffective stimulation, followed by 4 weeks of effective training. Stimulation protocols were established during baseline examination and confirmed with endoscopy to ensure a glottal reaction. Numerous acoustical, vocal, patient‐centered, and respiratory parameters were obtained at several time points.

Results

Neither 4 weeks nor 8 weeks of functional electrical transcutaneous stimulation led to changes of vocal, acoustical, or respiratory parameters, apart from patient‐centered items (Voice Handicap Index 12, Voice‐Related Quality of Life), which improved over time. However, there were no differences between the two arms for both items.

Conclusions

Transcutaneous FES over 4 weeks and 8 weeks did not lead to significantly improved objective voice and acoustical parameters, which could be caused by the fact that the muscles of interest cannot be targeted specifically enough. However, we found a significant improvement of subjective voice perception and voice‐related quality of life in both groups. We explain this finding with an observer‐expectancy effect secondary to the very time‐consuming and elaborate study procedures.

Level of Evidence

1b Laryngoscope, 130:E662–E666, 2020
Vertical changes in bacterial community composition down to a depth of 20 m on the degraded Loess Plateau in China
Authors: Liu Guiyao , Chen Lili , Deng Qiang , Shi Xinrong , Lock Thomas Ryan , Kallenbach Robert L. , Yuan Zhiyou
Published: January 2020

Soil microbes are involved in the fundamental processes that underpin an ecosystem's function. However, little is known about the microbial communities that inhabit deep soil horizons, especially in degraded forest ecosystems. Here, we used high‐throughput sequencing to investigate the vertical distribution of soil bacterial communities to a depth of 20 m in Pinus tabulaeformis and Robinia pseudoacacia forests on the Loess Plateau, China. We found that bacterial richness declined from the topsoil to a depth of 2 m in P. tabulaeformis forests and declined from the topsoil to a depth of 1 m in R. pseudoacacia forests, and thereafter increased. The relative abundance of α‐Proteobacteria was higher in subsoils than in topsoils of P. tabulaeformis forests. It was highest at the depth of 20 or 14 m in both forest types, suggesting that α‐Proteobacteria can survive dry, alkaline, low‐nutrient environments. We also found a higher relative abundance of Acidobacteria in topsoils than in subsoils, indicating that Acidobacteria can grow well in nutrient‐rich environments. Our results suggest that soil bacterial communities respond to nutrient changes associated with soil depth and plant species. These findings revealed that soil microorganisms persisted in deep and carbon‐starved soils, especially for α‐Proteobacteria, which may be adapted to resource‐poor environments in deep soils.
The Crank‐Nicolson/interpolating stabilized element‐free Galerkin method to investigate the fractional Galilei invariant advection‐diffusion equation
Authors: Abbaszadeh Mostafa , Dehghan Mehdi
Published: January 2020

Recently, finding a stable and convergent numerical procedure to simulate the fractional partial differential equations (PDEs) is one of the interesting topics. Meanwhile, the fractional advection‐diffusion equation is a challenge model numerically and analytically. This paper develops a new meshless numerical procedure to simulate the fractional Galilei invariant advection‐diffusion equation. The fractional derivative is the Riemann‐Liouville fractional derivative sense. At the first stage, a difference scheme with the second‐order accuracy has been employed to get a semi‐discrete plan. After this procedure, the unconditional stability has been investigated, analytically. At the second stage, a meshless weak form based upon the interpolating stabilized element‐free Galerkin (ISEFG) method has been used to achieve a full‐discrete scheme. As for the full‐discrete scheme, the order of convergence is
. Two examples are studied, and simulation results are reported to verify the theoretical results.
A new two‐point scheme for multiple roots of nonlinear equations
Authors: Behl Ramandeep , Zafar Fiza , Junjua Moin‐ud‐Din , Saleh Alshomrani Ali
Published: January 2020

In most of the earlier research for multiple zeros, in order to obtain a new iteration function from the existing scheme, the usual practice is to make no change at the first substep. In this paper, we explore the idea that what are the advantages if the flexibility of choice is also given at the first substep. Therefore, we present a new two‐point sixth‐order scheme for multiple roots (m>1). The main advantages of our scheme over the existing schemes are flexibility at both substeps, simple body structure, smaller residual error, smaller error difference between two consecutive iterations, and smaller asymptotic error constant. The development of the scheme is based on midpoint formula and weight functions of two variables. We compare our methods with the existing methods of the same order with real‐life applications as well as standard test problems. From the numerical results, we find that our methods can be considered as better alternates for the existing methods of the same order. Finally, dynamical study of the proposed schemes is presented that confirms the theoretical results.
Mechanics of infinitesimal gyroscopes on Mylar balloons and their action‐angle analysis
Authors: Kovalchuk Vasyl , Mladenov Ivailo M.
Published: January 2020

Here, we apply the general scheme for description of mechanics of infinitesimal bodies in Riemannian spaces to the example of geodetic and non‐geodetic (for two different model potentials) motions of infinitesimal rotators on the Mylar balloon. The structure of partial degeneracy is investigated with the help of the corresponding Hamilton‐Jacobi equation and action‐angle analysis. In all situations, it was found that for any of the sixth disjoint regions in the phase space among the three action variables only two are essential for the description of our models at the level of the old quantum theory (according to the Bohr‐Sommerfeld postulates).

Moreover, in both non‐geodetic models, the action variables were intertwined with the quantum number N corresponding to the quantized value of the radius r of the inflated Mylar balloon.
On the existence of a stable limit cycle to a piecewise linear system in R2
Authors: Ahmad A. , Haider K. , Kolev D.
Published: January 2020

The present paper is devoted to the existence of limit cycles of planar piecewise linear (PWL) systems with two zones separated by a straight line and singularity of type “focus‐focus” and “focus‐center.” Our investigation is a supplement to the classification of Freire et al concerning the existence and number of the limit cycles depending on certain parameters. To prove existence of a stable limit cycle in the case “focus‐center,” we use a pure geometric approach. In the case “focus‐focus,” we prove existence of a special configuration of five parameters leading to the existence of a unique stable limit cycle, whose period can be found by solving a transcendent equation. An estimate of this period is obtained. We apply this theory on a two‐dimensional system describing the qualitative behavior of a two‐dimensional excitable membrane model.
Study of bending effects of a wideband paper‐based printed microstrip‐fed antenna
Authors: Phan Hong Phuong , Vuong Tan‐Phu , Benech Philippe , Xavier Pascal , Borel Pascal
Published: January 2020

In this article, the authors conduct a study of bending effects of a paper‐based printed antenna in order to predict the behavior of an antenna placed inside a package with restricted dimensions. The study begins with a model of an electrical dipole consisting of two misaligned parts to evaluate qualitatively the effect of the angle between two parts and the proportion of their lengths on the radiation properties of the dipole. In order to validate the theoretical prediction, a wide‐band “mushroom‐shaped with two arms” monopole antenna structure printed on 0.104 mm thick paper is proposed. This antenna covers a very wide frequency range from 1.8 GHz to over 10 GHz, including two WLAN bands. Its radiation patterns are nearly omni‐directional at 2.45 and 5.5 GHz. The study of substrate bending effects shows that the matching properties of the antenna are maintained, but the antenna radiation patterns are rotated by an angle with respect to the case without bending. The results of our study can be used to predict the performance of an antenna when it is deformed in a telecommunication set‐top box with restricted dimensions.
Aluminum Alkyls as Highly Active Catalytic Chain Transfer Agents
Authors: Ewart Sean , Konstantinov Ivan , Karjala Teresa , Baugh Dan , Munjal Sarat
Published: January 2020

During the production of free radical initiated low‐density polyethylene (LDPE), it was discovered that the addition of low levels of alkyl aluminum compounds caused the molecular weight of the LDPE to drop precipitously. Further investigation demonstrated that aluminum‐alkyl compounds are among the most effective chain transfer agents ever utilized. It was also shown that polymer chains, which transfer to Al alkyl species, contain almost exclusively vinyl terminated end groups. A catalytic chain transfer mechanism is proposed in which chain transfer occurs from a growing polymer chain to an aluminum center followed by beta hydride elimination to produce a vinyl terminated polymer chain and a new aluminum hydride bond. This new aluminum hydride bond can then undergo further chain transfer reactions. This is the first time such a catalytic chain transfer mechanism has been reported. As little as 10–20 mol ppm aluminum alkyl species decreased the degree of polymerization by a factor of 2 resulting in chain transfer constant (Cs) values as high as 1000–2000. Density functional theory (DFT) study elucidated the catalytic cycle of triethylaluminum (TEA). It is discovered that, depending on the reaction conditions, TEA can serve as a conventional as well as catalytic chain transfer agent.
Neurodevelopmental, behavioral, and emotional symptoms common in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Darmahkasih Andrew J. , Rybalsky Irina , Tian Cuixia , Shellenbarger Karen C. , Horn Paul S. , Lambert Joshua T. , Wong Brenda L.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

We studied neurodevelopmental and behavioral/emotional symptoms in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Methods

Retrospective case series of neurodevelopmental and behavioral/emotional symptoms obtained through review of systems of 700 DMD patients in relation to dystrophin gene mutations.

Results

The most common symptoms encountered were emotional/behavioral dysregulation (38.7%), inattention/hyperactive features (31.4%), obsessive and compulsive features (25.0%), and language/speech delays (24.4%). Most patients (72.7%) had at least one symptom. Patients with mutations near the 3′ end of the dystrophin gene were at higher risk for developing inattention/hyperactive features, language/speech delays, and global intellectual delays. Those with mutations between exon 31 and 79 had higher risk of clustering of symptoms when compared with those upstream of exon 30.

Discussion

Neurodevelopmental, emotional, and behavioral symptoms are common comorbidities in DMD. There is higher prevalence of inattention/hyperactive features, language/speech delays, and global intellectual delays in genotypes affecting the 3′ end of the dystrophin gene.
Multidimensional correlation MRI
Authors: Benjamini Dan , Basser Peter J.
Published: January 2020

Multidimensional correlation spectroscopy is emerging as a novel MRI modality that is well suited for microstructure and microdynamic imaging studies, especially of biological specimens. Conventional MRI methods only provide voxel‐averaged and mostly macroscopically averaged information; these methods cannot disentangle intra‐voxel heterogeneity on the basis of both water mobility and local chemical interactions. By correlating multiple MR contrast mechanisms and processing the data in an integrated manner, correlation spectroscopy is able to resolve the distribution of water populations according to their chemical and physical interactions with the environment. The use of a non‐parametric, phenomenological representation of the multidimensional MR signal makes no assumptions about tissue structure, thereby allowing the study of microscopic structure and composition of complex heterogeneous biological systems. However, until recently, vast data requirements have confined these types of measurement to non‐localized NMR applications and prevented them from being widely and successfully used in conjunction with imaging. Recent groundbreaking advancements have allowed this powerful NMR methodology to be migrated to MRI, initiating its emergence as a promising imaging approach. This review is not intended to cover the entire field of multidimensional MR; instead, it focuses on pioneering imaging applications and the challenges involved. In addition, the background and motivation that have led to multidimensional correlation MR development are discussed, along with the basic underlying mathematical concepts. The goal of the present work is to provide the reader with a fundamental understanding of the techniques developed and their potential benefits, and to provide guidance to help refine future applications of this technology.
Detection and characterization of fracture zones in bedrock in marine environment: possibilities and limitations
Authors: Tassis Georgios A. , Tsourlos Panos I. , Rønning Jan Steinar
Published: January 2020

Geoelectrical measurements have so far been tested in marine environments worldwide in order to detect subsea fracture zones. However, many of these datasets are processed without considering the extremely high electrical conductivity of seawater and its implications. This study summarizes our efforts to establish the basic rules as to whether marine electrical resistivity tomography can detect weak zones inside a resistive bedrock, a problem which the engineers in Norway usually encounter in tunnel construction sites. This study examines the theoretical response of electrical resistivity tomography in a classic Nordic environment where a highly resistive bedrock is located below the highly conductive seawater, and the capability of electrical resistivity tomography to detect fractured zones, as relevant in a geotechnical study. We performed a large number of synthetic modelling tests examining several factors that marine geoelectrical surveys are particularly sensitive to, such as the depth of the seabed, the seawater conductivity and the bedrock variation, and the survey layout and the inversion scheme. Our results indicate that electrical resistivity tomography surveys for fracture zone detection in geoelectrically demanding marine environments can be promising in case of a limited water depth, and with the use of either dipole–dipole or multiple gradient array and availability of a detailed knowledge of the conductivity distribution in water. However, results of electrical resistivity tomography surveys in such circumstances can be ambiguous since they potentially suffer from reduced resolution and due to the loss of electrical current in water and other artificial effects. Based on the results of modelling, we were able to improve interpretations of electrical resistivity tomography data from a field survey, where marine acquisition was carried at a strait in Kvitsøy, southern Norway.
Energy stability and convergence of the scalar auxiliary variable Fourier‐spectral method for the viscous Cahn–Hilliard equation
Authors: Zheng Nan , Li Xiaoli
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we develop two linear and unconditionally energy stable Fourier‐spectral schemes for solving viscous Cahn–Hilliard equation based on the recently scalar auxiliary variable approach. The temporal discretizations are built upon the first‐order Euler method and second‐order Crank–Nicolson method, respectively. We carry out the energy stability and error analysis rigorously. Various classical numerical experiments are performed to validate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed schemes.
Satellite Data Complement Traditional Leak Detection and Repair Programs
Authors: Green Jessica , Gagliardo Paul
Published: January 2020

Through its approach to reducing real water losses, a small Texas utility demonstrates how it uses technology, innovation, and smart planning to benefit itself and its customers.
Arizona Utility Expands On‐Site Hypochlorite Generation
Authors: Andrews Robert
Published: January 2020

An award‐winning 2018 plant expansion increases water treatment capacity in growing Maricopa County, Ariz.
Fiscal consolidation and economic growth in India: Do policymakers need to shift focus from quantity to quality of fiscal adjustments?
Authors: Khoja Ishfaq Ahmad , Khan Naseer Ahmad
Published: January 2020

This paper evaluates the impacts of fiscal consolidation programmes and their composition on the growth rate of national income for Indian economy. More specifically the study tries to address two questions that is, composition of consolidation and its resultant impact on growth rate of income and the relative desirability of alternative sources of deficit financing that is, internal versus external borrowing. The study employed time series data from 1990–1991 to 2017–2018 and used the technique of ordinary least square and generalized method of moments. The study finds that, in long run, fiscal consolidation need not be necessarily recessionary in nature. Moreover, the composition of consolidation was found to have a significant impact. The study could not extend empirical support in favour of back‐loaded (spending financed) consolidation design as has been established for advanced economies. Moreover the study could not establish the negative impacts of revenue funded (both tax and non‐tax) fiscal consolidation on the growth rate of economy. The study documented that it is desirable to target expenditures such as subsidies, transfers and interest payments to infuse more discipline. A judicious mixture of both spending cuts and revenue increase may be a better strategy to consolidate in order to have better returns. The study highlighted that the external source of deficit financing is always costlier against the internal borrowings. The study noted that it is imperative on part of policymakers to shift their focus from quantity to the quality of deficits and the resultant consolidation programmes.
Supramolecular self‐assembly modification of ammonium polyphosphate and its flame retardant application in polypropylene
Authors: Qi Congrui , Yuan Bihe , Dong Haoran , Li Kaiyuan , Shang Sheng , Sun Yaru , Chen Gongqing , Zhan Yuanyuan
Published: January 2020

In order to improve its water resistance and compatibility with polymer matrix, ammonium polyphosphate (APP) is modified with melamine‐trimesic acid (MEL‐TA) aggregates by supramolecular self‐assembly technology. Chemical structure and morphology of APP@MEL‐TA are investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Intumescent flame retardant system of APP@MEL‐TA and charring‐foaming agent is introduced into polypropylene (PP) matrix. The flammability and combustion behavior of PP composites are investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI), UL‐94 vertical burning, and cone calorimetry tests. In terms of LOI values and cone combustion results, APP@MEL‐TA performs better than pristine APP. Char residue of PP composites is investigated by SEM and Raman spectra. Flame retardant mechanisms are proposed based on thermal decomposition, combustion results, and analysis on char residue.
How modality processing differences affect cross‐modal nonspatial repetition inhibition
Authors: Wang Aijun , Wu Xiaogang , Tang Xiaoyu , Zhang Ming
Published: January 2020

Although previous studies have demonstrated that identity‐based repetition inhibition could occur across modalities, whether the modality processing difference or attentional set caused differences between the unimodal and cross‐modal conditions was unknown. To investigate this question in both visual–auditory and auditory–visual patterns, the present study adopted a cross‐modal “prime‐neutral cue‐target” priming paradigm, in which a neutral event was presented between the prime and the target. The relationships of the identities and modalities between the prime and the target were manipulated such that their modalities and identities could either be the same or different. Our results showed that (a) identity‐based repetition inhibition occurred under both unimodal and cross‐modal conditions, (b) response times to auditory targets were slower than those to visual targets, and (c) identity‐based repetition inhibition was larger while discriminating repeated auditory targets than visual targets regardless of whether the prime was visual or auditory. These results suggested that nonspatial repetition inhibition can occur across modalities and that it was not in general larger or smaller than unimodal repetition inhibition, as this difference was due to modality processing differences.
Bayesian hierarchical methods in the detection of potentially teratogenic first‐trimester medications
Authors: Cavadino Alana , Prieto‐Merino David , Morris Joan K.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Bayesian hierarchical models (BHMs) have been used to identify adverse drug reactions, allowing information sharing amongst adverse reactions and drugs expected to have similar properties. This study evaluated the use of BHMs in the routine signal detection analyses of potential first‐trimester teratogens, where these models have not previously been applied.

Methods

Data on 15 058 malformed foetuses exposed to first trimester medications (1995‐2011) from 13 European congenital anomaly (CA) registries were analysed. The proportion of each CA in women taking a specific medication was compared with the proportion of that CA in all other women in the dataset (55 CAs × 523 medications). BHMs were grouped by either medications or CAs or by both simultaneously, and the results compared with analysing each medication‐CA combination separately and adjusting for multiplicity using a double false discovery rate (FDR) procedure. The proportions of “high‐risk” medications (medications which have been shown to carry a moderate to high risk of foetal malformations) identified as potential signals were compared, as well as the total number of potential signals requiring follow up (the effective workload).

Results

BHMs identified more high‐risk medications than the double FDR method, but the effective workload was larger. A BHM grouping both medications and CAs, for example, identified 23% of high‐risk medications compared with 14% by the double FDR; however, there was an increase from 16 to 71 potential signals requiring follow up.

Conclusion

For comparable effective workloads, BHMs did not outperform the double FDR, which is comparatively straightforward to implement and is therefore recommended for continued use in teratogenic signal detection analyses.
Teachers’ preferences and perceptions of the psychological report: A systematic review
Authors: Umaña Ileana , Khosraviyani Anahita , Castro‐Villarreal Felicia
Published: January 2020

This review summarizes primary studies on teachers’ preferences and perceptions of the psychological report. A systematic search identified 19 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. These studies were evaluated in terms of (a) psychological report section focus, (b) methodology, (c) research results, (d) discussion, and (e) recommendations. Across the 19 studies, 1,309 general and special education teachers indicated and rated their preferences and perceptions of the psychological report. In terms of the entire psychological report and especially the report recommendations, teachers preferred longer, descriptive, and more detailed reports. Teachers preferred reports that provided enough detail to aid in individualized education planning and recommendation and intervention implementation. Teachers also preferred reports written in integrated theme‐based formats as opposed to test‐by‐test formats. Teachers rated the level of detail and degree of psychological jargon used in reports as currently unsatisfactory. This review summarizes teacher preferences and identifies report features that aid in report comprehension and also provides a research basis from which to inform training and practice in psychological report writing.