bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal analysis of the contribution of 3D patella and trochlear bone shape on patellofemoral joint osteoarthritic features
Authors: Liao Tzu‐Chieh , Jergas Hannah , Tibrewala Radhika , Bahroos Emma , Link Thomas M. , Majumdar Sharmila , Souza Richard B. , Pedoia Valentina
Published: August 2020

To explore bone shape features that are associated with patellofemoral joint (PFJ) osteoarthritic features. Thirty subjects with PFJ degeneration (six males, 53.2 ± 9.8 years) and 23 controls (12 males, 48.1 ± 10.6 years) were included. Magnetic resonance (MR) assessment was performed to provide bone segmentation, morpholgocial grading, and cartilage relaxation times. In addition, subject self‐reported symptoms were reported. Logistic regressions were used to identify the shape features that were associated with the presence and worsening of PFJ morphological lesions over 3 years, and worsening of self‐reported symptoms. Statistical parametric mapping was used to evaluate the associations between shape features and cartilage relaxation times at 3 years. Results indicated that subjects with PFJ degeneration exhibited a trochlea with longer lateral condyle and shallower trochlear groove (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.10, 0.86; P = .025). Subjects with worsening of PFJ degeneration exhibited a patella with equally distributed facets (adjusted OR = 3.14; 95% CI: 1.05, 9.37; P = .040) and lateral bump (adjusted OR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.83; P = .030). No shape features were associated with worsening of self‐reported symptoms. Elevated T1ρ and T2 times at 3 years were associated with a patella with a lateral hook, equally distributed facets, round and thick as well as a trochlea larger in size (R = 0.38~0.46, P = .015~.025). The study demonstrated the ability of 3D statistical shape modeling to quantify patella and trochlear bone shape features that are associated with the presence and progression of PFJ osteoarthritic features.
Reversal of Intestinal Failure–Associated Liver Disease in an Infant Treated With Mixed Lipid Emulsion and Multidisciplinary Intestinal Rehabilitation Program
Authors: Molinos Nicole , Akimov Olga , Santos Cristhiane Schneider , Markley Michele , Adigun Ayoola , Duro Debora
Published: August 2020

Intestinal failure–associated liver disease (IFALD) can lead to increased morbidity and mortality in patients with intestinal failure (IF). We report the case of a premature infant born at 25 weeks’ gestation at a neighboring facility that developed surgical necrotizing enterocolitis and secondary IF with 6 cm of small bowel remaining measured from the ligament of treitz with jejunocolonic anastomosis. The patient's course was complicated by IFALD and transferred to our intestinal rehabilitation program at 3 months of age. He was treated with SMOF lipid in reduced lipid dosages to prevent and treat IFALD, including cycling of parenteral nutrition, monitoring of the glucose infusion rate, and adjusting the micronutrient, trace elements, and aggressive enteral feeding. Omegaven had not yet been approved during the time of this case presentation. During the course of his treatment, he experienced normalization of his liver profile tests and progressed toward enteral autonomy.
Resveratrol and insulin association reduced alveolar bone loss and produced an antioxidant effect in diabetic rats
Authors: Cirano Fabiano Ribeiro , Molez Andréia Manetta , Ribeiro Fernanda Vieira , Tenenbaum Howard C. , Casati Marcio Z. , Corrêa Mônica Grazieli , Pimentel Suzana Peres
Published: August 2020

Background

The present investigation studied the effects of systemic administration of resveratrol (RSV) on the development of experimental periodontitis (EP) and on the release of markers of inflammation, bone metabolism, and oxidative stress in diabetic rats.

Methods

Seventy‐five male rats were divided into five groups: DM+PLAC: Diabetes Mellitus + placebo solution; DM+INS: DM + insulin therapy; DM+RSV: DM + RSV; DM+RSV+INS: DM + RSV and insulin; NDM: non‐diabetic. Streptozotocin was used to induce DM and EP was induced by the placement of a ligature at the fist mandibular and the second maxillary molars. Euthanasia occurred 30 days after the initiation of the study and mandible specimens were subjected for morphometric analysis of bone level. Gingival tissues from mandibular molars were collected for quantification of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers by multiplex assay system and ELISA assay, respectively. Maxillary gingival tissues were processed for real‐time polymerase chain reaction (real‐time PCR) assessment of markers of bone metabolism and oxidative stress.

Results

Morphometric analysis revealed greater bone loss in DM+PLAC and DM+INS in comparison to the other treatments (P < 0.05). RSV used in conjunction with INS reduced the levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐17, interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD) (P < 0.05). RSV alone reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphatase oxidase (NADPH oxidase) levels, in comparison to DM+INS and DM+RSV+INS (P < 0.05). All treatments upregulated mRNA levels for osteoprotegerin (OPG) in comparison to PLAC (P < 0.05). Sirtuin 1 (SIRT) mRNA levels were lower in PLAC when compared to DM+RSV, DM+RSV+INS and NDM (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

RSV reduced the progression of EP and the levels of NADPH oxidase. Co‐treatment with RSV and insulin reduced the levels of pro‐inflammatory factors (either proteins or mRNA) and increased the levels of SOD. The data also demonstrated that treatment with RSV and INS alone or in combination had beneficial effects on bone loss.
A novel system exploits bone debris for implant osseointegration
Authors: Coyac Benjamin R. , Salvi Giuseppe , Leahy Brian , Li Zhijun , Salmon Benjamin , Hoffmann Waldemar , Helms Jill A.
Published: August 2020

Background

Bone debris generated during site preparation is generally evacuated with irrigation; here, we evaluated whether retention of this autologous material improved the rate of peri‐implant bone formation.

Methods

In 25 rats, a miniature implant system composed of an osseo‐shaping tool and a tri‐oval‐shaped implant was compared against a conventional drill and round implant system. A split‐mouth design was used, and fresh extraction sockets served as implant sites. Histology/histomorphometry, immunohistochemistry, and microcomputed tomography (μCT) imaging were performed immediately after implant placement, and on post‐surgery days 3, 7, 14, and 28.

Results

Compared with a conventional drill design, the osseo‐shaping tool produced a textured osteotomy surface and viable bone debris that was retained in the peri‐implant environment. Proliferating osteoprogenitor cells, identified by PCNA and Runx2 expression, contributed to faster peri‐implant bone formation. Although all implants osseointegrated, sites prepared with the osseo‐shaping tool showed evidence of new peri‐implant bone sooner than controls.

Conclusion

Bone debris produced by an osseo‐shaping tool directly contributed to faster peri‐implant bone formation and implant osseointegration.
Till kinematics in the Stargard drumlin field, NW Poland constrained by microstructural proxies
Authors: Hermanowski Piotr , Piotrowski Jan A. , Duda Piotr
Published: August 2020

Deciphering the relationships between streamlined subglacial landforms and deposits therein helps to constrain the dynamics of past ice sheets. Here we present microstructural analyses of till from the largest drumlin field in the North European Lowland generated by a major palaeo‐ice stream of the Scandinavian Ice Sheet. Data derived from thin sections and X‐ray microtomography (μCT) reveal multiple microstructures including microshears, circular structures, grain stacks and crushed grains. Long axes of micro‐clasts measured in thin sections are directionally clustered and have low, down‐ice‐oriented dip angles. Some samples reveal subordinate clustering oriented at high angles to the main direction. The μCT data show low clustering strengths of clasts and no systematic fabric pattern in the entire set of samples. There is no correspondence between the clast orientations and the directions of drumlin long axes, suggesting that the till is antecedent in relation to the drumlin‐shaping process. The observations indicate spatially and temporally variable, shallow‐seated brittle and ductile deformation controlled by porewater pressure fluctuations and generated time‐transgressively parallel to till accretion. Consistently with previous studies, the data suggest that the Stargard drumlins are erosional remnants of a pre‐existing terrain shaped by material removal from the inter‐drumlin areas.
Raman spectroscopy of ethane (C2H6) to 120 GPa at 300 K
Authors: Read Liam Q. , Spender James E. , Proctor John E.
Published: August 2020

We have conducted a Raman study of solid ethane (C2H6) at pressures up to 120 GPa at 300 K. We observe changes within the ν3 and ν11 Raman‐active vibrational modes providing evidence for several previously unobserved phase transitions at room temperature. These are located from 16 to 20 GPa, ~35 GPa, and ~60 GPa. We also could no longer measure the ν3 and ν11 modes from 75 GPa onward. We did not, however, observe any signs of the ethane molecule undergoing decomposition, up to the highest pressures measured. We also recorded spectra of the (2ν8, 2ν11), ν1, and ν10 modes but observed more limited changes in the behaviour of these modes.
Study of C‐S‐H dehydration due to temperature increase during fires
Authors: Martín‐Garrido Moisés , Martínez‐Ramírez Sagrario , Pérez Gloria , Guerrero Ana M.
Published: August 2020

Concrete is one of the most fire‐resistant materials, whose resistance depends on the chemical and structural characteristics of the hydrated calcium silicate (C‐S‐H) formed in the hydration and hardening process. However, the structure and composition of this C‐S‐H varies with the time of hydration. The effect of the composition of the calcium silicate on the anhydrous material formed has been studied after subjecting it to an accelerated study of the effect of fire, irradiating it with a CO2 laser. Changes in the composition of C‐S‐H can lead to changes in the mechanical properties of the cement. C‐S‐H samples with different chemical composition (Ca/Si ratios 1 and 2) as well as different synthesis processes (double decomposition and hydrothermal) were studied. The crystalline phases obtained after heating were identified through micro‐Raman spectroscopy, which confirmed the formation of anhydrous calcium silicates with the same Ca/Si ratio as the initial one. In C‐S‐H gels with a Ca/Si ratio of over 1.5, stable Ca (OH)2 was formed. Scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray analysis analysis determined that in the process of heating with the laser, water is lost fast, generating porous structures. Such porosity is higher in materials with a lower Ca/Si ratio.
Development of In‐Office Laryngeal Nerve Conduction Studies: Computed Tomography and Cadaveric Study
Authors: Bhatt Neel K. , Wu Franklin M. , Darki Leila , O'Dell Karla , Paniello Randal C. , Johns Michael M.
Published: August 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

In‐office recurrent laryngeal nerve conduction studies (NCSs) are a technique that can potentially provide information about laryngeal innervation. NCS is essential in the management of other neuropathies including carpal tunnel syndrome and spinal cord injury. We hypothesize that laryngeal NCS may have similar utility in managing patients with vocal fold paralysis, atrophy, and neurodegenerative disease. NCSs are technically challenging because they require transcervical stimulation of the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN). This study combines radiographic data with cadaveric dissection to describe the anatomic parameters for optimal RLN stimulation.

Study Design

Radiographic and Cadaveric Study.

Methods

Fifty computed tomography scans were reviewed to determine the dimensions for ideal needle electrode placement. These values were compared to measurements from 12 fresh human cadaveric neck dissections. Ultrasound imaging was utilized in select cases. The neck was dissected to assess the accuracy of electrode placement.

Results

Radiographically, the mean transcervical depth to the RLN was 33.2 mm ± 8.3 mm in males versus 29.4 mm ± 9.4 mm in females. The working space between the lateral trachea and carotid artery was 15.3 mm ± 3.6 mm on the right and 14.1 mm ± 2.9 mm on the left. After placement of stimulating electrodes into the cadaveric neck, the electrode tips were consistently within 8 mm of the RLN. Ultrasound guidance improved placement accuracy of the stimulating electrode.

Conclusions

Laryngeal NCSs can provide detailed and objective information about laryngeal innervation that could dramatically improve the management of various neuropathies. In‐office NCSs require technical precision, and this study describes anatomic factors that may affect the feasibility of performing this technique.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:1566–1569, 2021
Increasing soil organic carbon sequestration while closing the yield gap in Chinese wheat production
Authors: Guo Yifan , Chen Mingyou , Pan Junxiao , Shang Yiwei , Wu Xingjie , Cui Zhenling
Published: August 2020

Managing soil organic carbon (SOC) to maximize crop yield is a vital strategy to feed the world's growing population. However, the low SOC contents in agricultural soils limits the maximization of wheat yield. Here, we used modeling and a long‐term field experiment to determine whether improved crop management (IM) and an integrated procedure that combined IM with manure application (IMsoil) would close the yield gap while increasing SOC sequestration during wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production in China. The yield of conventional farmers' practice (CM), operating with high fertilizer inputs, suboptimal management, and straw removal, was 5.3 Megagrams per hectare (Mg/ha), reaching 48% of yield potential (Yp, 11.0 Mg/ha) while reducing SOC sequestration during the year 2012–2019. The IM procedure with optimized density, planting dates, and nutrient management increased yield to 8.0 Mg/ha (i.e., 73% of Yp), and increased SOC sequestration. The IMsoil treatment further elevated wheat yield to 9.3 Mg/ha (i.e., 85% of Yp) by increasing spike number and pre‐anthesis dry matter accumulation. The SOC sequestration in the IMsoil increased by 15.4 Mg C/ha at a rate of 2.20  Mg C ha‐1 yr through large C inputs and high SOC transfer efficiencies compared with the beginning of this experiment. These results highlight the importance of combining optimized crop managements with soil amendment to close the yield gap with less fertilizer inputs while contributing to sustainable agriculture objectives.
BLACK FATIGUE: RACISM, ORGANIZATIONS, AND THE ROLE OF FUTURE LEADERSHIP
Authors: Winters Mary‐Frances
Published: August 2020

This article examines the effects of racism on individuals, organizations (especially corporations), and society. A central point is the concept of “Black Fatigue”: “Black people have been marching, protesting, resisting, writing, orating, praying, legislating, and commentating for centuries for equity and justice, and—young and old—we are fatigued. It is physically, mentally, and emotionally draining to continue to experience inequities and even atrocities day after day when justice, equity, and fairness are purportedly legislated rights of all citizens of the United States of America.” The article also notes the “fatigue that comes from the pain and anguish of living with racism every single day of your life. It is about being fatigued by those who are surprised and express outrage (with no action) that such inequities still exist. It is about the constant fatigue of not knowing whether you or a loved one will come home alive. It is about enduring the ravages of intergenerational racism.” Companies must get involved in social justice to change systems. This includes supporting efforts for reform of the criminal justice system, reforming police departments, partnering with lower income public schools, and lobbying for need‐based K‐12 school funding.
Uncertainty, hiring and firing costs, and the determinants of profit‐sharing rules
Authors: Jou Jyh‐Bang , Lee Tan (Charlene)
Published: August 2020

We consider a firm run by a manager who acts on behalf of shareholders. The firm produces a commodity whose demand evolves stochastically over time. The firm's employees possess firm‐specific skills and knowledge and thus can bargain over profits with shareholders immediately before the firm hires or fires workers. The firm will distribute more portions of profits to employees when it incurs higher costs to hire or fire workers. In addition, as uncertainty in demand increases, the firm will distribute smaller (larger) portions of profits to employees if the firm does not have the option to fire (hire) workers.
A novel genetic variant associated with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo within the LOXL1
Authors: Deng Mingzhu , Liu Chen , Jiang Weiqing , Wang Fei , Zhou Juan , Wang Dong , Wang Yonggang
Published: August 2020

Background

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a common, self‐limited, and favorable prognostic peripheral vestibular disorder. BPPV is transmitted in an autosomal dominant fashion, but most cases occur sporadically. Little research has been reported regarding the mutation spectrum of sporadic BPPV in a large cohort. This study attempted to identify the causative candidate variants associated with BPPV in VDR, LOXL1, and LOXL1‐AS1.

Methods

An amplicon‐targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS) method for VDR, LOXL1, and LOXL1‐AS1, was completed in 726 BPPV patients and 502 normal controls. A total of 30 variants (20 variants from VDR, nine variants from LOXL1, seven variants from LOXL1‐AS1) were identified in these two groups.

Results

Three of 30 variants were nonsynonymous mutations, but no significant difference was found between the BPPV group and the control group via association analysis. A single nucleotide variant (SNV), rs1078967, was identified that is located in intron 1 of LOXL1. The allelic frequency distribution differed significantly between the BPPV group and the control group (p = 0.002). Genotypic frequency was also significantly different (p = 0.006), as determined by gene‐based analyses.

Conclusion

This report is the first to analyze the variant spectrum of BPPV in a large Chinese population.
Propagation of the nonlinear damped Korteweg‐de Vries equation in an unmagnetized collisional dusty plasma via analytical mathematical methods
Authors: Seadawy Aly R. , Iqbal Mujahid
Published: August 2020

In this article, we consider the problem formulation of dust plasmas with positively charge, cold dust fluid with negatively charge, thermal electrons, ionized electrons, and immovable background neutral particles. We obtain the dust‐ion‐acoustic solitary waves (DIASWs) under nonmagnetized collision dusty plasma. By using the reductive perturbation technique, the nonlinear damped Korteweg‐de Vries (D‐KdV) equation is formulated. We found the solutions for nonlinear D‐KdV equation. The constructed solutions represent as bright solitons, dark solitons, kink wave and antikinks wave solitons, and periodic traveling waves. The physical interpretation of constructed solutions is represented by two‐ and three‐dimensional graphically models to understand the physical aspects of various behavior for DIASWs. These investigation prove that proposed techniques are more helpful, fruitful, powerful, and efficient to study analytically the other nonlinear nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) that arise in engineering, plasma physics, mathematical physics, and many other branches of applied sciences.
A theoretical design of ultra‐wideband multisection Wilkinson power divider using Euler polynomials
Authors: Kasar Ömer , Kahriman Mesud
Published: August 2020

When the broadband impedance matching techniques are applied to the Wilkinson power divider, it operates in a larger frequency range and covers many communication bands. In this study, an ultra‐wideband (UWB) multisection Wilkinson power divider (WPD) circuit has been designed. Euler method has applied to the circuit that had equal power dividing feature on its two output ways. In the three‐section of the WPD, the Euler function has been modeled as a reflection coefficient on the output branches. The Euler polynomials have been used to calculate the characteristic impedance of each section. The isolation resistors have been calculated by odd‐even mode analysis according to the line impedances. In the Euler WPD, center frequency was 2.45 GHz and the limits for the return loss and isolation was selected as 15 dB and 20 dB, respectively. The bandwidth was measured as 0.75 to 3.80 GHz. The percent bandwidth of the WPD was calculated as 124.5%. Along the operation band interval, the minimum insertion loss measured lower than 0.75 dB. The design has been compared with a quarter wave (QW) WPD. It has been shown that the Euler method can achieve higher bandwidth, lower return loss and better Isolation than the conventional WPD.
High confinement electrically pumped metal‐insulator‐metal waveguide structures
Authors: Foroozandeh Farhad , Hill Martin T.
Published: August 2020

Metal‐insulator‐metal (MIM) waveguide structures which propagate a plasmon gap like mode and also provide pathways for electrical pumping are proposed and investigated via simulations. Semiconductor pathways connect electrical contacts which are spatially separated from the waveguide mode to the gain medium, allowing electrically pumped amplification in the waveguide. Previously realized electrically pumped MIM waveguides have limitations for small device sizes, and other proposed waveguides rely on difficult to control wet etching to form the waveguide core. However, the structures proposed here allow the waveguide core to be precisely defined by lithography and dry etching. Furthermore, the active semiconductor surfaces are exposed in the early stages of the fabrication process, allowing good passivation. It is shown that the proposed structures have optical confinement and losses comparable to previous architectures.
Treatment patterns and costs among patients with OAB treated with combination oral therapy, sacral nerve stimulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation, or onabotulinumtoxinA in the United States
Authors: Kraus Stephen R. , Shiozawa Aki , Szabo Shelagh M. , Qian Christina , Rogula Basia , Hairston John
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Treatment patterns and costs were characterized among patients with overactive bladder (OAB) receiving later‐line target therapies (combination mirabegron/antimuscarinic, sacral nerve stimulation [SNS], percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation [PTNS], or onabotulinumtoxinA).

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study using 2013 to 2017 MarketScan databases, two partially overlapping cohorts of adults with OAB (“IPT cohort”: patients with incident OAB pharmacotherapy use; “ITT cohort,” incident target therapy) with continuous enrollment were identified; first use was index. Demographic characteristics, treatment patterns and costs over the 24‐month follow‐up period were summarized. Crude mean (standard deviation [SD]) OAB‐specific (assessed by OAB diagnostic code or pharmaceutical dispensation record) costs were estimated according to target therapy.

Results

The IPT cohort comprised 54 066 individuals (mean [SD] age 58.5 [15.0] years; 76% female), the ITT cohort, 1662 individuals (mean [SD] age 62.8 [14.9] years; 83% female). Seventeen percent of the IPT cohort were treated with subsequent line(s) of therapy after index therapy; among those, 73% received antimuscarinics, 23% mirabegron, and 1.4% a target therapy. For the ITT cohort, 32% were initially treated with SNS, 27% with onabotulinumtoxinA, 26% with combination mirabegron/antimuscarinic, and 15% with PTNS. Subsequently, one‐third of this cohort received additional therapies. Mean (SD) costs were lowest among patients receiving index therapy PTNS ($6959 [$7533]) and highest for SNS ($29 702 [$26 802]).

Conclusions

Costs for SNS over 24 months are substantially higher than other treatments. A treatment patterns analysis indicates that oral therapies predominate; first‐line combination therapy is common in the ITT cohort and uptake of oral therapy after procedural options is substantial.
A peridynamic Reissner‐Mindlin shell theory
Authors: Zhang Qi , Li Shaofan , Zhang A‐Man , Peng Yuxiang , Yan Jiale
Published: August 2020

In this work, we have developed a state‐based peridynamics theory for nonlinear Reissener‐Mindlin shells to model and predict large deformation of shell structures with thick wall. The nonlocal peridynamic theory of solids offers an integral formulation that is an alternative to traditional local continuum mechanics models based on partial differential equations. This formulation is applicable for solving the material failure problems involved in discontinuous displacement fields. The governing equations of the state‐based peridynamic shell theory are derived based on the nonlocal balance laws by adopting the kinematic assumption of the Reissner and Mindlin plate and shell theories. In the numerical calculations, the stress points are employed to ensure the numerical stability. Several numerical examples are conducted to validate the nonlocal structure mechanics model and to verify the accuracy as well as the convergence of the proposed shell theory.
Recruitment of women veterans into suicide prevention research: Improving response rates with enhanced recruitment materials and multiple survey modalities
Authors: Gaeddert Laurel A. , Schneider Alexandra L. , Miller Christin N. , Monteith Lindsey L. , Brenner Lisa A. , Katon Jodie , Hoffmire Claire A.
Published: August 2020

Women veterans (WV) are the fastest growing veteran subpopulation and recognized to be at increased risk for suicide compared with civilians. Improving engagement (e.g., response rates) of WV in survey research is critical to ensuring valid and generalizable findings, which can inform suicide prevention programs tailored for this population. Many factors are known to influence response rates, yet little is known about ways to optimize survey response rates among WV. Three recruitment cohorts (Waves 1 [W1], 2a [W2a], and 2b [W2b]) of WV were invited to participate in an online survey for a national, mixed‐methods study examining suicide risk among WV using reproductive health care services paid for or provided by the Veterans Health Administration. To examine the effects of enhanced recruitment efforts, standard recruitment materials were mailed to all three cohorts, with the additions of: a study flyer aiming to build trust between participants and researchers (W2a, W2b) and a paper survey (W2b). Characteristics of responders and non‐responders were compared by wave and across survey modalities. Response rates were significantly higher for groups receiving enhanced (W2a = 17.1%; W2b = 24.6%) versus standard (W1 = 12.2%) recruitment materials. WV residing in rural areas were significantly more likely to respond by paper (37.1%) than online (19.8%). Non‐respondents were disproportionately racial and ethnic minorities. Disclosure of sensitive information (e.g., military sexual trauma) did not differ by survey modality. Findings suggest that enhanced recruitment materials improve survey response rates among WV, an important consideration for future research with this population.
A critical review of stock market development in India
Authors: Salameh Samer , Ahmad Asad
Published: August 2020

The development of stock markets in the financial sector has been important. The expansion of stock markets has compelled various researchers to analyze its relationship with the economic process and development of countries. The studies have revealed that the performance of stock markets in a nation has a positive correlation to its economic growth. Bearing this relationship in mind, studies are being undertaken to recognize the elements responsible for stock market development in several nations. The researchers all around the world are trying to better understand determinants so that government establishments can create and target policies that may help the development of stock markets which further helps in economic development of the state. Throughout the past three decades, the global stock markets surged, and emerging markets played a vital role in this boom. Recent researches have begun to concentrate on the linkages between the stock markets and economic development. There has been an extensive analysis of the connection between the stock market and economic growth, but there is a dearth of theoretical empirical proof on what determines stock exchange development. Keeping in view the importance of stock markets in the development of economic development, the researchers in the present study have tried to bring out the factors that play a positive role in the development of stock market.
Why did make in India scheme fail to attract FDI inflows in Indian manufacturing sector?
Authors: Choudhury Rahul Nath
Published: August 2020

To boost the manufacturing sector, India announced a highly ambitious scheme Make in India in 2014. The scheme aims to transform India into a global design and manufacturing hub by fostering innovation, facilitate investment and build best in class manufacturing infrastructure. The scheme envisioned to increase the share of the manufacturing sector to the GDP to 25% and create 100 million new jobs by 2025. Another prime objective of the plan was to attract foreign direct investment in the Indian manufacturing sector. The government identified 25 industries in the manufacturing sector. Several steps were undertaken to publicise the campaign both domestically and internationally. The government allocated around Rs. 1821.5 Cr since the launch of the scheme. But, after the six years of its launch, the scheme has made little impact on the economy. The scheme could neither increase the share of the manufacturing sector in GDP nor could attract any significant volume of FDI in the manufacturing sector. In this backdrop, this study attempts to assess the performance of the scheme. The paper also attempts to investigate the factors that hindered its success.
Nonleaching antimicrobial poly(vinyl alcohol)/polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride hydrogels reinforced by hydrogen bond
Authors: Gong Wuling , Wei Dafu , Zhang Shaotian , Jiang Yachao , Ye Jingyun , Zheng Anna , Guan Yong
Published: August 2020

Antimicrobial poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogels attracted much attentions in the last decade. In this work, a novel antimicrobial PVA hydrogel was prepared through compounding PVA with polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride (PHMG) and freezing‐thawing method. These composite hydrogels behaved above 99.9% of antimicrobial rates against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus even at 0.003 wt% of PHMG, and the nonleaching characteristic of PHMG as well as long‐acting antimicrobial activities. The PVA/0.100 wt% PHMG hydrogel had 120% higher tensile strength than pure PVA hydrogel, and its water vapor transmission rate was 4530 ± 245 g/m2/d, which was at an optimal range for injured skin (279‐5138 g/m2/d). This work provides a simple approach to develop nonleaching antimicrobial PVA hydrogels with extremely few PHMG for wound dressing and other potential applications in biomedical field.
Low frequency electromagnetic shielding efficiency of composites based on ethylene propylene diene monomer and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kruželák Ján , Kvasničáková Andrea , Plavec Roderik , Ušák Elemír , Ušáková Mariana , Dosoudil Rastislav , Hudec Ivan
Published: August 2020

Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber was filled with multi‐walled carbon nanotubes to prepare composite materials with the effect of electromagnetic radiation (EMR) shielding. Sulfur‐based curing system as well as peroxide curing system were used for vulcanization of rubber compounds. The main goal of the work was the investigation of curing system composition and filler content on curing process, physical‐mechanical properties, cross‐link density, and shielding efficiency of the prepared composites. The results showed that curing characteristics and cross‐link density of composites were dependent on both, amount of carbon nanotubes and curing system composition. The incorporation of filler resulted in the enhancement of physical‐mechanical properties of composites. Higher values of tensile strength were found to have composites cured with organic peroxide in combination with co‐agent. The achieved results also demonstrated that carbon nanotubes filled rubber composites are suitable candidates for applications, in which shielding of EMR at low frequencies is based on reflection.
Soil structuring using interpolyelectrolyte complexes of water‐soluble polysaccharides
Authors: Klivenko Alexey , Orazzhanova Lyazzat , Mussabayeva Binur , Yelemessova Gulnur , Kassymova Zhanar
Published: August 2020

Soil degradation is an important problem on a global scale. Suitable materials for its solution are interpolyelectrolyte complexes (IPEC) of biodegradable polymers. IPEC based on the oppositely charged pairs of biodegradable polymers—chitosan and sodium alginate (Ch‐SA), chitosan and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Ch‐SC), and chitosan‐gellan gum (Ch‐GG) were prepared and studied using different physicochemical techniques (FTIR‐spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, conductometric and turbidimetric titration, and rheoviscometric measurements). Thin films of IPECs were prepared by pouring polymer solutions on a flat surface and subsequent evaporation of water. These films were tested using mechanical analysis. Young modulus of IPEC films increases in the following order: Ch‐SC < Ch‐GG < Ch‐SA. Urban soil samples were sequentially treated with Ch solution and negatively charged polymer solution (SC, SA, GG). This technique of soil treatment leads to formation of IPEC within the soil surface layer. The soil structures and also soil treated with pure water and individual polymer solutions were also tested using mechanical analysis. It was found that the most durable structures are formed by IPEC based on Ch and SC. All the applied systems can be arranged in the following sequence in ascending order of the Young's modulus: GG < Ch < SA < Water < SC < Ch‐GG < Ch‐SA < Сh‐SC. The IPEC based on biodegradable and biocompatible polymers of polysaccharide nature can be successfully used for soil structuring. These polymers significantly increase the mechanical strength of the soil without harmful effects to the environment. Among the studied systems, the Ch‐SC system has the greatest structuring ability. These soil structuring agents can be applied for improving of the quality of urban and agricultural soils.
Care experiences that foster trust between parents and physicians of children with cancer
Authors: Mack Jennifer W. , Kang Tammy I.
Published: August 2020

Background

Trust is a core aspect of the patient‐physician relationship, especially in cancer care. We sought to examine parents’ experiences with trust over the first year after a child's cancer diagnosis.

Procedure

We conducted a prospective, questionnaire‐based longitudinal cohort study of parents and physicians of children with cancer at two academic pediatric hospitals. We evaluated trust among 166 parents of children with cancer over the first year after diagnosis. Surveys were administered after diagnosis, at 4 months, and at 12 months after diagnosis.

Results

Seventy‐one percent of parents trusted the child's oncologist “completely” at baseline, as did 79% at 4 months and 77% at 12 months. At baseline, high‐quality physician communication (OR 4.11 [1.78‐9.51], P = .001) and information (OR 2.82 [1.29‐6.16], P = .01) were associated with trust, after adjustment for parent gender, race/ethnicity, and education. Parents were less likely to trust the physician completely at 12 months if the child had experienced cancer relapse or progression (OR 0.28 [0.10‐0.81], P = .02). In a mixed linear model adjusted for parent gender, race/ethnicity, education, and clustering by physician, trust was associated with high‐quality communication (OR 3.40 [1.61‐7.20], P = .001) and receipt of high‐quality information (OR 2.48 [1.18‐5.21], P = .02), and inversely associated with relapse or progression (OR 0.39 [0.17‐0.92], P = 0.03); trust increased over time (P < .0001).

Conclusions

Most parents form trusting relationships with their children's oncologists. Physicians can foster trust through patient‐centered communication and provision of high‐quality information about a child's cancer. Poor outcomes such as relapse are a threat to trust.
Radiation therapy and molecular‐targeted agents in preclinical testing for immunotherapy, brain tumors, and sarcomas: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Vatner Ralph , James Charles D. , Sathiaseelan Vythialingam , Bondra Kathryn M. , Kalapurakal John A. , Houghton Peter J.
Published: August 2020

Despite radiation therapy (RT) being an integral part of the treatment of most pediatric cancers and the recent discovery of novel molecular‐targeted agents (MTAs) in this era of precision medicine with the potential to improve the therapeutic ratio of modern chemoradiotherapy regimens, there are only a few preclinical trials being conducted to discover novel radiosensitizers and radioprotectors. This has resulted in a paucity of translational clinical trials combining RT and novel MTAs. This report describes the opportunities and challenges of investigating RT together with MTAs in preclinical testing for immunotherapy, brain tumors, and sarcomas in pediatric oncology. We discuss the need for improving the collaboration between radiation oncologists, biologists, and physicists to improve the reliability, reproducibility, and translational potential of RT‐based preclinical research. Current translational clinical trials using RT and MTAs for immunotherapy, brain tumors, and sarcomas are described. The technologic advances in experimental RT, availability of novel experimental tumor models, advances in immunology and tumor biology, and the discovery of novel MTAs together hold considerable promise for good quality preclinical and clinical multimodality research to improve the current rates of survival and toxicity in children afflicted with cancer.
A model for in situ plan of care for a critically unstable pediatric patient following I‐131 MIBG infusion
Authors: Flori Heidi Rosanna , Mwenesi Rama , Scott Annette , Conrad Christina Marie , Quinn Justin Andrew , Ostwani Waseem , Fischer Karl William , Yanik Gregory Anthony
Published: August 2020

Recent clinical trials have moved iodine‐131 (I‐131) metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) therapy into frontline management of high‐risk neuroblastoma. With this expansion, it is reasonable to anticipate the need for intensive care level resuscitations. Radiation exposure remains the greatest risk to health care professionals managing these patients. We combined shock simulation scenario data with actual radiation dosimetry data to create a care model allowing for aggressive, prolonged in situ resuscitation of a critically ill pediatric patient after I‐131 MIBG administration. This model will maintain a critical care provider's radiation level below 10% of the annual occupational dose limit (5 mSv, 500 mrem) per patient managed.
The role of twinning in sustainable care for children with cancer: A TIPPing point? SIOP PODC Working Group on Twinning, Collaboration, and Support
Authors: Kanwar Vikramjit S. , Schwartz Kevin R. , Salifu Nihad , Abdelfattah Ahmed M. , Anim Bernard , Cayrol Julie , Sniderman Elizabeth , Eden Tim
Published: August 2020

With the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer, there is renewed interest in sustainable interventions to improve childhood cancer care in low‐/middle‐income countries (LMICs). Practitioners in LMICs have traditionally practiced “twinning,” i.e., targeted international pediatric oncology partnerships (TIPPs) between one or more institutions in a high‐income country (HIC) and an LMIC, to improve care for children with cancer in the latter. The International Society of Paediatric Oncology Committee for Paediatric Oncology in Developing Countries Working Group on Twinning, Collaboration, and Support reviewed guidelines from https://cancerpointe.com and the current literature, gathered input from practitioners in LMICs, and in this article discuss the role of TIPPs in the WHO initiative.
Preoperative 3D reconstruction images for paediatric tumours: Advantages and drawbacks
Authors: Irtan Sabine , Hervieux Erik , Boutroux Hélène , Becmeur François , Ducou‐le‐Pointe Hubert , Leverger Guy , Audry Georges
Published: August 2020

Rationale

Three‐dimensional reconstruction (3DR) of preoperative images may improve the presurgical assessment of tumours prior to removal. We aimed to analyse the advantages and discrepancies of preoperative 3DR in paediatric tumours.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study from 2016 to 2019, including patients with thoraco‐abdominal tumours having predictable surgical risks on preoperative images (encasement of vessels posing vascular risks, ie, neuroblastic and soft tissue tumours or parenchyma preservation of the invaded organ, ie, liver and kidney). A comparison of 2D/3DR and surgical findings was performed.

Results

Twenty‐four patients, with a median age at surgery of 68.2 months (13 days‐203 months), were operated on for neuroblastoma (n = 7), renal tumour (n = 7), hepatic tumour (n = 4) and others (n = 6; bone sarcoma of the iliac branch, abdominal lymph nodes of a recurrent testicular germ cell tumour, pseudoinflammatory tumour of the omentum, thoracic lipoblastoma, desmoplastic tumour, solid and pseudopapillar tumour of the pancreas). Reconstruction was of poor quality in two patients with renal tumours because computed tomography (CT) had no excretory phase. Discrepancies between 3DR and surgical findings occurred in two patients, one because of poor assessment of caliceal infiltration by renal nodules and the other because of inadequate reconstruction of renal vein thrombosis. For all the other tumours, 3DR improved the visualisation and precise location of vessels during surgery.

Conclusion

High‐quality preoperative images are mandatory to provide the best 3DR. In the majority of cases, 3DR is of significant help during surgery to better identify vascular structures within tumours and preserve parenchyma.
Development of masterbatch for composites using bamboo charcoal powders in poly(lactic) acid
Authors: Srisuk Rapeeporn , Techawinyutham Laongdaw , Mavinkere Rangappa Sanjay , Siengchin Suchart , Dangtungee Rapeephun
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study is to develop polymer composite masterbatches by using poly(lactic) acid as a carrier resin and bamboo charcoal particle as a natural pigment. Moreover, antioxidant and dispersing agent were added to the masterbatches where the antioxidant improves thermal and ultraviolent stability of pigment masterbatches while dispersing agent enhances the distribution and dispersion of bamboo charcoal particles in the polymer matrix. The natural pigment masterbatches were diluted in the poly(lactic) acid matrix. The morphology, thermal property, and rheological properties of bamboo charcoal particles/poly(lactic) acid composites comparing before and after weathering tests are studied. It was concluded that natural pigment charcoal masterbatches can make good bamboo charcoal particles/poly(lactic) acid composites for high‐temperature food packaging applications.
Insights into the polymerization kinetics of thermoresponsive polytrimethylene carbonate bearing a methoxyethoxy side group
Authors: Brissenden Amanda J. , Amsden Brian G.
Published: August 2020

The ring‐opening polymerization kinetics of 5‐[2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)‐ethoxymethyl]‐5‐methyl‐1,3‐dioxa‐2‐one (TMOE‐2) and 5‐[2‐{2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethyoxy}‐ethoxymethyl]‐5‐methyl‐1,3‐dioxa‐2‐one (TMOE‐3) was investigated using different catalysts with the aim to improve control over molecular weight. The possibility of monomer impurities driving the variability in molecular weight that has been seen in different reports, was assessed and evidence of catalysis via an imidazole impurity was found. The catalysts 1,5,7‐triazobicyclo(4.4.0)dec‐5‐ene (TBD), hydrogen chloride in diethyl ether (HCl·Et2O), stannous 2‐ethylhexanoate (SnOct2), and catalyst free thermal polymerizations were conducted to understand the mechanisms influencing the molecular weight. TBD and HCl·Et2O consistently achieved high conversion of the monomer; however, molecular weights greater than 7,000 Da could not be achieved due to competing side reactions. SnOct2 catalyzed and catalyst free thermal polymerizations were highly influenced by monomer purity and achieved lower conversion than TBD and HCl·Et2O. Understanding these mechanisms will guide future synthesis of poly(TMOE‐2) and poly(TMOE‐3) for biomedical applications.
Automatic oxygen flow titration in spontaneously breathing children: An open‐label randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Roué Jean‐Michel , Delpeut Juliette , d‘Hennezel Alix , Tierrie Tess , Barzic Audrey , L'Her Erwan , Cros Pierrick
Published: August 2020

Introduction

When children require supplemental oxygen due to acute hypoxemic respiratory distress (AHRD), manual control of the oxygen flow is often difficult and time‐consuming, and carries the risk of unrecognized hypoxia and hyperoxia. To date, no automatic oxygen titration system has been developed and evaluated in spontaneously breathing children.

Methods

Children between 1 month and 15 years of age receiving supplemental oxygen due to AHRD were recruited within 24 hours following the onset of the O2 administration in a French University Department of Paediatrics. Patients were randomized to receive either automated oxygen administration using the FreeO2 device, or conventional manual oxygen administration over a maximum period of 6 hours. Stratification was performed to classify the patients into two age groups: 1 month to 2 years of age and 2 to 15 years of age. The primary outcome was % time spent within the SpO2 target range (92%‐98%).

Results

60 patients (30 infants, 30 children) were randomized and 55 could be analyzed for the primary outcome (28 automated, 27 manual). The automated O2 delivery using the FreeO2 device significantly increased the time spent within the predefined SpO2 range (94.6% ± 6% vs 76.3% ± 22%, difference [95% confidence interval {CI}] 18.4 [10.1; 26.7]) with less time spent with hypoxemia (1% ± 1.1% vs 15.1% ± 21.8%, difference [95% CI] −14.4 [−22.2; −6.7]). This difference was greater among (2‐15 years of age) children, compared to (1 month‐2 years of age) infants.

Conclusions

The present randomized controlled pilot study indicates that the tested automated closed‐loop O2 titration technology was safe and yielded improved oxygen parameters among spontaneously breathing children. Based on our pilot data, a full randomized controlled trial will be required to verify the potential clinical benefits.
An additive Chen‐Weibull distribution and its applications in reliability modeling
Authors: Thanh Thach Tien , Briš Radim
Published: August 2020

In this article, we introduce a new lifetime distribution with increasing and bathtub‐shaped failure rates. Some statistical properties of the proposed distribution are studied. We use the method of maximum likelihood for estimating the model parameters and reliability characteristics and discuss the interval estimates using asymptotic confidence intervals and bootstrap confidence intervals on one hand, and we provide Bayes estimators and highest posterior density intervals for the parameters via Hamiltonian Monte Carlo simulation method on the other hand. We demonstrate the superiority of the proposed distribution by fitting two reliability data sets well‐known from references.