bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socially responsible investment returns and news: Evidence from Asia
Authors: Yen Meng‐Feng , Shiu Yung‐Ming , Wang Chi‐Feng
Published: August 2019

We set out in this study to examine (a) whether “socially responsible investment” (SRI) portfolios can outperform less‐SRI portfolios in the emerging Asian stock markets and (b) whether investors within these emerging markets achieve awareness of SRI through publicly available news. On the basis of 2009–2013 data, we find that SRI portfolios tend to perform better in Japan. However, firms in the emerging Asian markets do not earn rewards for superior corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices. We also find that investors in the emerging Asian markets are indeed aware of SRI through public CSR news releases; in particular, investors in these markets reward high environmental‐, social‐, and governance‐rated firms for their good CSR practices advertised through such news releases, relative to those with no news releases.
Modified method for transformer magnetizing characteristic computation and point‐on‐wave control switching for inrush current mitigation
Authors: Yahiou Abdelghani , Bayadi Abdelhafid , Babes Badreddine
Published: August 2019

This paper proposes a new model for the low‐frequency transient analysis of a transformer, with a modified equation for calculation of the flux‐current characteristic representing the saturation inductance of the transformer. The model is based on the V‐I (voltage‐current) no‐load curves and uses the no‐load reactive power losses. To validate the model, it was used to simulate the no‐load magnetizing current in steady‐state condition, as well as the transient inrush current at network frequency. Evaluation was done both by comparing the simulation results obtained with the proposed model and those available in the relevant literature, and by practical measurements. The experimental results presented in this paper were obtained via a laboratory setup and a data acquisition system based on the dSPACE board 1104. Moreover, a control switching to mitigate the transient inrush current in a transformer was developed and applied experimentally in the laboratory and also in the simulations. This control strategy was performed by taking into account the residual flux at the opening instant of the related circuit breaker. A comparative study was carried out showing the validity of the proposed model and the mitigation technique.
A fast tag identification anti‐collision algorithm for RFID systems
Authors: Wijayasekara Sanika Krishnamali , Nakpeerayuth Suvit , Annur Robithoh , Hsieh Hung‐Yun , Sanguankotchakorn Teerapat , Sandrasegaran Kumbesan , Srichavengsup Warakorn , Phromsa‐ard Tharathorn , Wuttisittikulkij Lunchakorn
Published: August 2019

In this work, we propose a highly efficient binary tree‐based anti‐collision algorithm for radio frequency identification (RFID) tag identification. The proposed binary splitting modified dynamic tree (BS‐MDT) algorithm employs a binary splitting tree to achieve accurate tag estimation and a modified dynamic tree algorithm for rapid tag identification. We mathematically evaluate the performance of the BS‐MDT algorithm in terms of the system efficiency and the time system efficiency based on the ISO/IEC 18000‐6 Type B standard. The derived mathematical model is validated using computer simulations. Numerical results show that the proposed BS‐MDT algorithm can provide the system efficiency of 46% and time system efficiency of 74%, outperforming all other well‐performed algorithms.
Untersuchung und Sanierung eines feuchten Kellermauerwerks (Gutachten)
Authors: Pittino Philipp , Hafellner Hans
Published: August 2019

In the following expertise report, the existing condition of the cellar of a semi‐detached house, which was built in a coupled construction, is analysed and considerations for a hygric refurbishment are discussed. First and foremost, it was necessary to find the cause of the damp present in the outside walls of the cellar of the building. In order to describe the current characteristics of the building, an inventory analysis was made of obvious building defects. This is summarised and described in the following report, which was the basis for all further proceeding. Building physics measurements and evaluations were carried out, building materials were examined for their physical properties and corresponding evaluations and analyses were carried out. Finally, all measurement results and findings were collected to provide a conclusive explanation for the existing defects to the building fabric of the building. This in turn was the foundation for all further measures to be taken in order to determine the necessary remediation concepts and changes to the interior design or the use of the rooms. The aim was to make the cellar space fully usable again and to be able to hand over a list of proposals for the necessary technical remediation measures to the client.
Konzeptionelle Grundlagen und Tools zur Bewertung der Multi‐Hazard‐Verletzbarkeit von Bestandsbauten
Authors: Schwarz Jochen , Maiwald Holger , Kaufmann Christian , Langhammer Tobias , Beinersdorf Silke
Published: August 2019

The European Macroseismic Scale 1998 – (EMS 98) is an instrument for the natural hazard of earthquakes, which allows the explanation of observed differences in the behaviour of the prevailing construction types by introducing and implementing vulnerability classes. The EMS 98 enables also the identification of purely empirically justified ranges of scatter.

The basic methodology is also applicable to other natural hazards such as flood, tsunami and wind. This permits the development of a unified methodology for the consideration of building vulnerability in the sense of a multi‐hazard approach.

For the first time, a vulnerability‐oriented instrument is available to evaluate a building stock for different natural hazards according to criteria that have been standardised in terms of engineering.

The multi‐hazard vulnerability with its possible scatters is examined and visualized on real building inventories.

With the concept of ”LEGOisation“ the existing buildings, a novel approach is presented to allow the sub‐structuring of buildings into storeys (including roof, basement and floors) to further development of the classification towards specific damage characteristics and local vulnerability.

A still to be developed ”Conceptual Simulation Tool“ is described as an outlook. This uses the tools and methods developed to simulate damage and losses as a result of various natural hazards and their sequences.
Immortalization of a cell line with neural stem cell characteristics derived from mouse embryo brain
Authors: Almengló Cristina , González‐Mosquera Tamara , Caamaño Pilar , Seoane Marcos , Fraga Máximo , Devesa Jesús , Costoya José A. , Arce Víctor M.
Published: August 2019

Background

Neural stem cells (NSC) have been extensively used as a tool to investigate the mechanisms responsible for neural repair, and they have been also considered as the source for a series of promising replacement therapies in various neurodegenerative diseases. However, their use is limited by their relative rarity and anatomical localization, and also because, the methods for isolation and characterization are usually time consuming and have some technical limitations.

Results

In this study, we describe a resource and method for obtaining immortalized cells with NSC characteristics obtained from mouse brain embryo.

Conclusions

Because these cells can be maintained indefinitely in culture, they may constitute a permanent source of NSC that can be used for research studies on neural development and regeneration.
The influence of ecological and life history factors on ectothermic temperature–size responses: Analysis of three Lycaenidae butterflies (Lepidoptera)
Authors: Wilson Rebecca J. , Brooks Stephen J. , Fenberg Phillip B.
Published: August 2019

Body size has been shown to decrease with increasing temperature in many species, prompting the suggestion that it is a universal ecological response. However, species with complex life cycles, such as holometabolous insects, may have correspondingly complicated temperature–size responses. Recent research suggests that life history and ecological traits may be important for determining the direction and strength of temperature–size responses. Yet, these factors are rarely included in analyses. Here, we aim to determine whether the size of the bivoltine butterfly, Polyommatus bellargus, and the univoltine butterflies, Plebejus argus and Polyommatus coridon, change in response to temperature and whether these responses differ between the sexes, and for P. bellargus, between generations. Forewing length was measured using digital specimens from the Natural History Museum, London (NHM), from one locality in the UK per species. The data were initially compared to annual and seasonal temperature values, without consideration of life history factors. Sex and generation of the individuals and mean monthly temperatures, which cover the growing period for each species, were then included in analyses. When compared to annual or seasonal temperatures only, size was not related to temperature for P. bellargus and P. argus, but there was a negative relationship between size and temperature for P. coridon. When sex, generation, and monthly temperatures were included, male adult size decreased as temperature increased in the early larval stages, and increased as temperature increased during the late larval stages. Results were similar but less consistent for females, while second generation P. bellargus showed no temperature–size response. In P. coridon, size decreased as temperature increased during the pupal stage. These results highlight the importance of including life history factors, sex, and monthly temperature data when studying temperature–size responses for species with complex life cycles.
Cardiac implantable electronic devices with a defibrillator component and all‐cause mortality in left ventricular assist device carriers: results from the PCHF‐VAD registry
Authors: Cikes Maja , Jakus Nina , Claggett Brian , Brugts Jasper J. , Timmermans Philippe , Pouleur Anne‐Catherine , Rubis Pawel , Van Craenenbroeck Emeline M. , Gaizauskas Edvinas , Grundmann Sebastian , Paolillo Stefania , Barge‐Caballero Eduardo , D'Amario Domenico , Gkouziouta Aggeliki , Planinc Ivo , Veenis Jesse F. , Jacquet Luc‐Marie , Houard Laura , Holcman Katarzyna , Gigase Arno , Rega Filip , Rucinskas Kestutis , Adamopoulos Stamatios , Agostoni Piergiuseppe , Biocina Bojan , Gasparovic Hrvoje , Lund Lars H. , Flammer Andreas J. , Metra Marco , Milicic Davor , Ruschitzka Frank ,   on behalf of the PCHF‐VAD registry
Published: August 2019

Aims

To compare characteristics of left ventricular assist device (LVAD) recipients receiving a cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) with a defibrillator component (implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator and cardiac resynchronization therapy with defibrillation, CIED‐D) vs. those without one, and to assess whether carrying such a device contiguously with an LVAD is associated with outcomes.

Methods and results

Overall, 448 patients were analysed (mean age 52 ± 13 years, 82% male) in the multicentre European PCHF‐VAD registry. To account for all active CIED‐Ds during ongoing LVAD treatment, outcome analyses were performed by a time‐varying analysis with active CIED‐D status post‐LVAD as the time‐varying covariate. At the time of LVAD implantation, 235 patients (52%) had an active CIED‐D. Median time on LVAD support was 1.1 years (interquartile range 0.5–2.0 years). A reduction of 36% in the risk of all‐cause mortality was observed in patients with an active CIED‐D [hazard ratio (HR) 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.46–0.91; P = 0.012), increasing to 41% after

adjustment for baseline covariates (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.40–0.87; P = 0.008) and 39% after propensity score adjustment (HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39–0.94; P = 0.027). Other than CIED‐D, age, LVAD implant as redo surgery, number of ventricular arrhythmia episodes and use of vasopressors pre‐LVAD were remaining significant risk factors of all‐cause mortality. Incident ventricular arrhythmias post‐LVAD portended a 2.4‐fold and 2.6‐fold increased risk of all‐cause and cardiovascular death, respectively; carrying an active CIED‐D remained associated with a 47% and 43% reduction in these events, respectively.

Conclusions

In an analysis accounting for all active CIED‐Ds, including those implanted during LVAD support, carrying such a device was associated with significantly better survival during LVAD support.
PEDOT/Superoxide Dismutase Electrode Surface Modification for Superoxide Bioelectrochemical Sensing
Authors: Moya Patricia M. Olmos , Granados Silvia Gutiérrez , Bedioui Fethi , Griveau Sophie
Published: August 2019

An amperometric biosensor for the sensitive detection of superoxide was designed utilizing a drop‐coating approach for immobilizing the superoxide dismutase enzyme on Pt electrode modified with a thin layer of poly (3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). The
layer electrodeposited on Pt was characterized by cyclic voltammetry and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Then, drop‐coating procedure was chosen for the immobilization of superoxide dismutase (SOD), which was incorporated at the electrode surface using a solution containing SOD, glutaraldehyde and bovine serum albumin (optimized composition: SOD 0.1 % – BSA 2 % – GA 2.5 %.) This simple procedure allows forming a reproducible enzymatic biocomposite layer that allows optimal sensitivity and limit of detection for superoxide sensing. The synergistic effect integrates an effective conductivity and permselectivity attributed to the PEDOT layer, as well as the specificity and selectivity of SOD for the detection of superoxide. A high sensitivity (0.82±0.01 μA/μM) and a low detection limit of 11 nM were obtained, as well as good selectivity against main interfering biological compounds such as uric acid and ascorbic acid. Our results suggest that the biosensor could be used for the detection and quantification of
in vitro and in vivo.
An ecological application of sustainability and sustainizability over sets
Authors: Jorat Masih , Zhu Li , Manousiouthakis Vasilios I.
Published: August 2019

The sustainability over sets and sustainizability over sets concepts have been recently introduced as sustainable system analysis and synthesis tools, respectively, with broad flexibility in incorporating human input. In this work, these two concepts are applied to an ecological food web system, describing the flow of biomass among different organisms of an ecosystem with 10 compartments aggregated in five trophic levels. The obtained results first show that this ecosystem is not sustainable over any set, imposing upper and lower numerical bounds on the population of each species, and accounting for sinusoidal variations in plant growth. It is subsequently established that the system can be sustainized over such sets through appropriate external actions.

Statement of industrial relevance

By presenting a mathematical viewpoint for ecological sustainability of food web structures, the presented article can be informative to researchers working on environmental sustainability, and in particular on assessing and ensuring the sustainability of processes involving microbial populations and remediation/treatment of solid or aqueous waste processes.
Enhancing biomass hydrolysis for biofuel production through hydrodynamic modeling and reactor design
Authors: Gaona Adriana , Lawryshyn Yuri , Saville Bradley
Published: August 2019

A computational fluid dynamics model was developed to represent high‐solids enzymatic hydrolysis. This model accounted for the transient and multiphase (solids‐slurry) nature of the high‐solids enzymatic hydrolysis process. The model investigated the effect of slurry viscosity, rotational speed, and two impeller configurations on the distribution of insoluble solids. Initial CFD results identified segregation of the velocity contours for the non‐Newtonian slurry, which could potentially affect the reactor performance. The multiphase, transient CFD simulations showed that the first impeller configuration delayed the distribution of solids, and compartmentalized mixing in the reactor. The second impeller configuration, meanwhile, improved solids mixing and hydrolysis, while using lower rotational speeds (and thus, energy). The second impeller configuration also expanded the size of the pseudo‐cavern between impellers, which is critical for better dispersion of the solids. The CFD trends of the second impeller configuration were experimentally verified by conducting fed‐batch, high‐solids enzymatic hydrolysis trials with pretreated lignocellulose. The experimental results showed that the second impeller configuration provided better mixing of the non‐Newtonian slurry and enhanced solids‐enzyme interactions, leading to improved glucan‐to‐glucose conversion. This work illustrates that a transient multiphase CFD model can provide valuable insights into the design and optimization of high‐solids enzymatic hydrolysis reactors. The CFD model has identified pathways to improve the distribution of solids while reducing the energy needed for mixing. The CFD model can also guide experimental and design work to scale up these reactors from the laboratory to pilot and commercial scale.
Effects of ionic liquid concentration on coal low‐temperature oxidation
Authors: Cui Chuanbo , Jiang Shuguang , Wang Kai , Zheng Siwen , Li Ming , Zhang Weiqing , Tang Hailin
Published: August 2019

In order to find out the optimal concentration of ionic liquid to lower the cost of inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion, effects of aliphatic hydrocarbons, hydrogen bonds, and some structural parameters of coal samples treated with low‐concentration ionic liquids were analyzed through Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and temperature‐programmed experiments. Meanwhile, the changes of index gases in the heating process were observed by the temperature‐programmed method. The results show that the contents of aliphatic hydrocarbons in the treated coal samples decrease remarkably, so does the length of aliphatic chain CH2/CH3; besides, the amount of CO produced also decreases to some extent. When the mass concentration ratio is 1:10, HB‐tc, BB‐tc, AC‐tc, and BN‐tc can reduce the spatial structure and enhance the structural stability of aromatic clusters in coal. The CO concentrations of 1:2 HB‐tc and 1:10 AC‐tc are obviously lower than that of raw coal, indicating their better inhibitory effects. The inhibitory effect of HB‐tc decreases with the decrease in concentration. With the rise of temperature, the effect of concentration on the inhibition of CO production gradually weakens at 180°C and 200°C. AC‐tc achieves the optimum inhibitory effect near 1:10 mass concentration ratio.
Disentangling human impact from natural controls of sediment dynamics in an Alpine catchment
Authors: Stutenbecker Laura , Costa Anna , Bakker Maarten , Anghileri Daniela , Molnar Peter , Lane Stuart N. , Schlunegger Fritz
Published: August 2019

Human activities have increasingly strong impacts on the sediment dynamics of watersheds, directly, for example through water abstraction and sediment extraction, but also indirectly through climate change. This study aims at disentangling these impacts on natural sediment fluxes for the Borgne River, located in the Alps of southwest Switzerland, using two approaches: First, an assessment of contemporary sediment sources and their relative contribution to the sediment delivered to the catchment outlet is undertaken by geochemical fingerprinting and a mixing model. Second, a spatially distributed conceptual model of suspended sediment production and transfer is used to quantify the contribution of different portions of the catchment to the total sediment yield. The model describes the influence of hydroclimatic variables (rainfall, snowmelt, and ice melt), water diversions and reservoir trapping on the sediment yield accounting for the erodibility of the different land covers present in the catchment. The analysis of different scenarios based on this conceptual model aids the interpretation of the fingerprinting results and the identification of the most important factors controlling sediment fluxes. Although the conceptual model overestimates the contribution of the downstream source area and underestimates the contribution of the upstream source area, the results allow us to qualitatively assess the impacts of different drivers influencing the sediment yield at the catchment scale. The results suggest: (1) high sediment yield from the uppermost part of the catchment due to sediment delivery by glacial ice melt; (2) delayed sediment transfer from areas impacted by water abstraction; and (3) reduced sediment contribution from areas upstream of a major hydropower reservoir that intercepts and traps sediment. Although process (1) and processes (2) and (3) serve to counter one another, our study emphasizes that the relative impacts of Anthropocene climate change and human impacts on sediment delivery may be disentangled through multi‐proxy approaches. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A nomenclatural synopsis of Chassalia (Rubiaceae) in Asia
Authors: Turner I.M.
Published: August 2019

The genus Chassalia in Asia is reviewed. In total 23 species are accepted, including one new combination and a validation of a combination proposed earlier. Some 17 names in Chassalia relevant to the Asia‐Pacific region are excluded from the genus, and recognised in genera such as Psychotria, Eumachia and Geophila. Names in Cephaelis for the region are also reviewed. One new combination and two new names are proposed in Psychotria. Synonyms and types are given for all names treated, including 29 lectotypifications.
Heats of combustion representative of the carbohydrate mass contained in fruits, vegetables, or cereals
Authors: Martínez‐Navarro Ana‐Guadalupe , Orozco‐Guareño Eulogio , Sánchez‐Peña María‐Judith , López‐Naranjo Edgar‐José , Muñiz‐Mendoza Priscilla , González‐Ortiz Luis‐Javier
Published: August 2019

The obtainment of suitable values for metabolizable energy requires the previous knowledge of accurate and precise values of the heat of combustion of the different macronutrients. Thus, in this work, the heats of combustion of six carbohydrates (glucose, fructose, sucrose, maltose, starch, and cellulose) were experimentally measured, and such values were statistically compared with equivalent bibliographic values collected in a parallel work (Heats of combustion of the main carbohydrates in vegetable foods: a bibliographic approach, 2019), proposing, for each carbohydrate, an “overall interval” and an actualized representative value, which were estimated considering jointly the bibliographic and experimental information. Besides, a numerical methodology that used such parameters and the relative content of the different carbohydrates in selected foods was proposed, to estimate the global heat of combustion producible by the carbohydrate mass contained in such foods. The results estimated for 68 foods were globalized to propose the following generalized heats of combustion: (a) for fruits: 3.88 kcal/g, (b) for vegetables: 3.98 kcal/g and, and (c) for cereals: 4.13 kcal/g. These results demonstrated that the use of the Atwater's value (4.2 kcal/g of carbohydrate of vegetable source) involves a clear overestimation of the heat of combustion of the carbohydrate mass contained in vegetable source foods.
A probabilistic assessment of geomechanical reservoir integrity during CO2sequestration in flood basalt formations
Authors: Jayne Richard S. , Wu Hao , Pollyea Ryan M.
Published: August 2019

Recent field experiments in Iceland and Washington State (USA) show that basalt formations may be favorable targets for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) because CO2mineralization reactions proceed rapidly. These results imply that there is tremendous opportunity for implementing CCS in large igneous provinces. However, the magnitude of this opportunity comprises commensurate levels of uncertainty because basalt reservoirs are characterized by highly heterogeneous, fracture‐controlled hydraulic properties. This geologic uncertainty is propagated as parametric uncertainty in quantitative risk models, thus limiting the efficacy of models to predict CCS performance attributes, such as reservoir integrity and storage potential. To overcome these limitations, this study presents a stochastic approach for quantifying the geomechanical performance attributes of CCS operations in a highly heterogeneous basalt reservoir. We utilize geostatistical reservoir characterization to develop an ensemble of equally probable permeability distributions in a flood basalt reservoir with characteristics of the Wallula Basalt Pilot Project. We then simulate industrial‐scale CO2injections within the ensemble and calculate the mean and variance of fluid pressure over a 1‐year injection period. These calculations are combined with the state of stress in southeast Washington State to constrain the spatial extent at which shear failure, fracture initiation, and borehole breakdown may occur. Results from this study show that (i) permeability uncertainty alone causes injection pressure to vary over 25 MPa, (ii) shear failure is likely to occur at 7 times greater distances from the injection than the CO2migrates, and (iii) joint initiation pressures are localized within the volume comprising the CO2plume. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conceptualizing Scholarship on Adolescent Out‐of‐School Writing Toward More Equitable Teaching and Learning: A Literature Review
Authors: Vaughan Andrea
Published: August 2019

Although school is only one of many places where youths write, the writing privileged in school is often upheld as standard, whereas adolescents’ out‐of‐school writing often uses forms, styles, and topics not taught or allowed in school. Little is known about how K–12 educators can use research on out‐of‐school writing to inform in‐school writing curricula. The author examined research on adolescent out‐of‐school writing to synthesize the literacy field's knowledge of this phenomenon. The empirical literature from the last decade documents out‐of‐school writing that provides opportunities to focus on writing as a craft, includes digital texts and participatory cultures, emphasizes meaningful purposes and audiences, and highlights the work done by marginalized writers. The discussion considers implications for the conception of literacy writ large and offers principles drawn from existing scholarship as implications for K–12 writing educators.
WavePacket: A Matlab package for numerical quantum dynamics. III. Quantum‐classical simulations and surface hopping trajectories
Authors: Schmidt Burkhard , Klein Rupert , Cancissu Araujo Leonardo
Published: August 2019

WavePacket is an open‐source program package for numerical simulations in quantum dynamics. Building on the previous Part I (Schmidt and Lorenz, Comput. Phys. Commun. 2017, 213, 223] and Part II (Schmidt and Hartmann, Comput. Phys. Commun. 2018, 228, 229] which dealt with quantum dynamics of closed and open systems, respectively, the present Part III adds fully classical and mixed quantum‐classical propagation techniques to WavePacket. There classical phase‐space densities are sampled by trajectories which follow (diabatic or adiabatic) potential energy surfaces. In the vicinity of (genuine or avoided) intersections of those surfaces, trajectories may switch between them. To model these transitions, two classes of stochastic algorithms have been implemented: (1) Tully's fewest switches surface hopping and (2) Landau–Zener‐based single switch surface hopping. The latter one offers the advantage of being based on adiabatic energy gaps only, thus not requiring nonadiabatic coupling information any more. The present work describes the MATLAB version of WavePacket 6.1.0, which is essentially an object‐oriented rewrite of previous versions, allowing to perform fully classical, quantum‐classical and quantum‐mechanical simulations on an equal footing, that is, for the same physical system described by the same WavePacket input. The software package is hosted and further developed at the Sourceforge platform, where also extensive Wiki‐documentation as well as numerous worked‐out demonstration examples with animated graphics are available. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel Substituted Imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]Thiadiazole Derivatives: Synthesis, Characterization, Molecular Docking Study, and Investigation of Their In Vitro Antifungal Activities
Authors: Er Mustafa , Tahtaci Hakan , Karakurt Tuncay , Onaran Abdurrahman
Published: August 2019

In this study, a new series of substituted imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives were synthesized. To this end, first 2‐amino‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives (compounds 2a and 2b), the starting materials, were synthesized with high yields (82% and 79%, respectively). Then imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives (4–16), the target compounds, were synthesized from reactions of 2‐amino‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives (2a and 2b) with 2‐bromoacetophenone derivatives (3a–3i) (in yields of 52% to 71%). All of the synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Fourier transform infrared, elemental analysis, mass spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction analysis (compounds 4–12, 14, and 15) techniques. In vitro antifungal activity tests were performed for all of the synthesized compounds. Inhibition zones, percentage of inhibition, minimum fungicidal activity, minimum inhibitory concentration, and lethal dose values of the target compounds were determined against some plant pathogens. According to the results of the biological activity tests, all of the synthesized compounds showed moderate to high levels of antifungal activity. Theoretical calculations were performed to support the experimental results. The geometric parameters of selected compounds (5, 6, and 8) were optimized using the density functional theory B3LYP/6‐31G(d) method in the Gaussian 09W package program, and the frontier molecular orbitals (highest occupied molecular orbital–lowest unoccupied molecular orbital) were calculated theoretically. Finally, molecular docking studies were performed for antifungal activity studies of the selected compounds and to determine whether or not these compounds could be inhibitor agents for the 2RKV protein structure.
From octreotide to shorter analogues: Synthesis, radiolabeling, stability
Authors: Yakusheva Anzhelika , Titchenko Nikolay , Egorova Bayirta , Matazova Ekaterina , Podkhalyuzina Natalya , Osipov Vasily , Khachatryan Derenik , Avdeev Dmitry , Posypanova Galina , Kalmykov Stepan
Published: August 2019

This study aims at analyzing complexation properties of two new short somatostatin analogues, their synthesis, radiolabeling with 44Sc, 207Bi, and 152Eu and stability in vitro. Short tetrapeptide Phe‐d‐Trp‐Lys‐Thr and pentapeptide Thz‐Phe‐d‐Trp‐Lys‐Thr were first conjugated with the DOTA macrocyclic chelator. These conjugates were radiolabeled with 44Sc, 207Bi, and 152Eu and characterized by thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) and HPLC. The radiochemical purity was measured using digital autoradiography and gamma spectrometry. Optimum conditions of DOTA‐conjugate labeling were found: 0.1mM, pH 8.0 to 8.4 at 90°C for DOTA‐tetrapeptide complexes with 207Bi and 152Eu; 0.05mM, pH 4.0 to 5.0 at 90°C for 44Sc‐DOTA‐tetrapeptide; 0.2mM, pH 4.0 to 5.0 at 90°C for 44Sc‐DOTA‐pentapeptide. Complexes of DOTA‐pentapeptide with 207Bi and 152Eu of radiochemical purity more than 95% were probably unstable at temperature higher than 37°C and were obtained at 37°C, pH 8.0 to 8.4 within 4 days. Mass spectra of the Eu‐DOTA‐pentapeptide revealed the presence of small fragments of the pentapeptide conjugate in the complex solution. in vitro stability studies were performed in saline in the presence of serum proteins and biologically relevant metal cations. All complexes demonstrated no cation release in vitro within 1 to 4 hours.
Highlights of C (sp2)–H hydrogen isotope exchange reactions
Authors: Hesk David
Published: August 2019

The highlights of C (sp2)–H hydrogen isotope exchange (HIE) methods developed over the past 10 years are summarized in this review. Major developments include improved Ir(I) catalysts with greater functional group and solvent compatibility and the development of novel base metal catalysts for HIE. In addition, a number of novel Ru‐based catalysts have been developed with promising activity. In the area of Pt‐ and Pd‐catalysed exchange, in addition to new advances on heterogeneous Pt‐ and Pd‐catalysed HIE by Sajiki and Shevchenko, a number of groups have reported on homogenous catalysts of Pt and Pd that show an interesting activity and selectivity.
From Learner to Leader: A Reflective Analysis of the Teacher–Student Relationship
Authors: Kenning Michela A.
Published: August 2019

As students, we looked up to our professors, mentors, and teachers. We were taught to show them respect and, in some cases, reverence for what they know and the roles they play. Because of this strong societal dynamic, there is often an invisible line of intimidation and decreased communication within this teacher–student role. Younger faculty members or those eager to connect with the millennial generation may offset this with social media or more personal interaction. How does the leadership style of a professor either help or hinder the learning process? As a faculty member within a graduate health profession, pursuing a concurrent PhD in Education and Leadership has challenged my beliefs and conceptions about what it means to be an effective leader. My role as a professor and mentor contrasts with my continual and humbling growth as a doctoral student and has highlighted the importance of communication between students and professors—especially within graduate education. The current experiential and reflective paper discusses the teacher–student relationship and features the input of professors and students from a graduate health professional program to offer guidance for how to build relationships that enhance student learning.
Impact of sea ice decline in the Arctic Ocean on the number of extreme low‐temperature days over China
Authors: Ge Feifan , Yan Tao , Zhou Lu , Jiang Yuelin , Li Wei , Fan Yufen , Wang Yishu , Mao Kebiao , Wu Wenge
Published: August 2019

The variation in the number of extreme low‐temperature days (NELD) during winter over China is examined. The NELD mainly has a significant decreasing trend across China. The leading NELD empirical orthogonal function (EOF) mode also shows consistent change characteristics over China, and a Mann–Kendall (MK) test of its time coefficients indicates that the NELD abruptly changed in approximately 1980. The impact of sea ice concentrations in the Arctic Ocean on the NELD is investigated. Sea ice concentration declines in the Barents Sea and the sea east of Greenland have significant negative effects on the NELD. Sea surface temperatures in these regions are negatively correlated with the NELD. The study analyses the influence mechanism by researching the composite atmosphere variable anomalies between years with below‐normal NELD and those with above‐normal NELD.
Graphene/silver nanoparticles‐based surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy detection platforms: Application in the study of DNA molecules at low pH
Authors: Muntean Cristina M. , Dina Nicoleta E. , Coroş Maria , Toşa Nicoleta , Turza Alexandru I. , Dan Monica
Published: August 2019

The aim of this work is to develop a surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)‐active platform based on a mixture of graphene/Ag nanocomposite and a silver colloid for biomedical applications and to test it in the case of DNA molecules at low pH. Graphene/silver nanocomposites were synthesized by the reduction process and were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray powder diffraction patterns, and thermogravimetric analysis. The following graphene/Ag composites were prepared: (a) “thermally reduced graphene oxide” (TRGO), containing about 2–3% silver nanoparticles (AgNPs); (b) TRGO 1 (graphene with crowded AgNPs 20%); and (c) TRGO 2 (graphene with ordered AgNPs 20%). Different mixtures of these systems with a silver colloid were tested not only by ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry but also by SERS in the presence of the test substance crystal violet. Moreover, the time stability of the mixtures of graphene/AgNPs composite (TRGO 1) with the silver colloid was tested for crystal violet. Based on these results, the platform with the best SERS enhancement properties was selected for DNA analyses at low pH values. Chemical stability under acidic conditions has been found for nucleic acid systems, in the presence of graphene/crowded AgNPs 20% and silver colloid. This chemical stability has been discussed considering a hydracid catalyzed electrophilic hydration reaction mechanism characteristic to the trans‐1,3‐butadiene‐type building moieties from graphene.
Semiautomatic Fetal Intelligent Navigation Echocardiography Has the Potential to Aid Cardiac Evaluations Even in Less Experienced Hands
Authors: Gembicki Michael , Hartge David R. , Dracopoulos Christoph , Weichert Jan
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To investigate the interobserver and intraobserver variability and corresponding learning curve in a semiautomatic approach for a standardized assessment of the fetal heart (fetal intelligent navigation echocardiography [FINE]).

Methods

A total of 30 stored spatiotemporal image correlation volume data sets of second‐trimester fetuses were evaluated by 3 physicians with different levels of expertise in fetal echocardiography by using the FINE approach. Data were analyzed regarding the examination time and proper reconstruction of the diagnostic cardiac planes. The completions and numbers of correct depictions of all diagnostic planes were evaluated by a blinded expert (time t0). To determine interobserver and intraobserver variability, the volumes were reassessed after a 4‐week training interval (time t1).

Results

All operators were able to perform the investigation on all 30 volumes. At t0, the interobserver variability between the beginner and both the advanced (P = .0013) and expert (P < .0001) examiners was high. Focusing on intraobserver variability at t1, the beginner showed a marked improvement (P = .0087), whereas in advanced and expert hands, no further improvement regarding proper achievement of all diagnostic planes could be noticed (P > .999; P = .8383). The beginner also showed improvement in the mean investigation time (t0, 82.8 seconds; t1, 73.4 seconds; P = .0895); nevertheless, the advanced and expert examiners were faster in completing the examination (t1, advanced, 20.9 seconds; expert, 28.3 seconds; each P < .0001).

Conclusions

Based on our results, the FINE technique is a reliable and easily learned method. The use of this semiautomatic work flow–based approach supports evaluation of the fetal heart in a standardized and time‐saving manner. A semiautomatic evaluation of the fetal heart might be useful in facilitating the detection of fetal cardiac anomalies.
Computed tomography performance in predicting extranodal extension in HPV‐positive oropharynx cancer
Authors: Faraji Farhoud , Aygun Nafi , Coquia Stephanie F. , Gourin Christine G. , Tan Marietta , Rooper Lisa M. , Eisele David W. , Fakhry Carole
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the performance characteristics of seven predetermined imaging features on pretreatment computed tomography (CT) in identifying extranodal extension (ENE) in cervical lymph node metastases from human papillomavirus‐positive oropharyngeal carcinoma (HPV‐OPC).

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Methods

Seventy‐three patients with HPV‐OPC who underwent primary surgery and cervical lymph node dissection were included. Preoperative contrast‐enhanced CT (cCT) imaging was evaluated by two radiologists blinded to pathological results. Each cCT was scored for seven imaging features of interest: 1) indistinct capsular contours, 2) irregular nodal margins, 3) perinodal fat stranding, 4) perinodal fat planes, 5) nodal necrosis, 6) intranodal cysts, and 7) nodal matting. Logistic regression was employed to determine radiologist‐specific odds ratios (OR) of predicting ENE for each imaging feature and radiologist‐specific receiver operating characteristics (sensitivity [Sn], specificity [Sp], area under the curve [AUC], positive predictive value [PPV], negative predictive value [NPV]) for each imaging feature.

Results

Thirty‐two (44%) patients had ENE‐positive lymph nodes. The presence of irregular margins (ORA = 12.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]A = 2.3–65.9; ORB = 7.0, 95% CIB = 1.4–36.3) and absence of perinodal fat plane (ORA = 6.8, 95% CIA = 2.0–23.3; ORB = 14.2, 95% CIB = 1.7–120.5) were significantly associated with ENE for each radiologist. Irregular nodal margin status was most specific for ENE (SnA = 45%, SpA = 94%, AUCA = 69%, PPVA = 82%, NPVA = 73%; SnB = 28%, SpB = 95%, AUCB = 61%, PPVB = 80%, NPVB = 64%). Absence of perinodal fat plane was most sensitive for ENE (SnA = 87%, SpA = 50%, AUCA = 69%, PPVA = 59%, NPVA = 62%; SnB = 96%, SpB = 34%, AUCB = 65%, PPVB = 53%, NPVB = 63%).

Conclusions

Of the seven imaging features hypothesized to be associated with ENE‐status, the presence of irregular nodal margins and absence of perinodal fat plane were the most specific and sensitive features, respectively.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:1479–1486, 2020
Elective Neck Dissection Versus Observation in Early‐Stage (cT1/T2N0) Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Jin‐Yong , Chen Chieh‐Feng , Bai Chyi‐Huey
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Whether to perform elective neck dissection (END) or apply the observation (OBS) policy in patients with early‐stage oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) without clinical evidence of cervical lymph node metastasis (cT1/T2N0) remains uncertain. The two most recent meta‐analyses include many studies published before the widespread availability of CT scanning in the 1990s. With the rapid advancement in imaging studies since 1990, the early clinical detection of cervical node metastasis has become more reliable without the need for END or pathological staging. Thus, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies comparing survival outcomes between END and OBS in patients with cT1/T2N0 OSCC.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and Scopus for retrospective and prospective studies published between January 1, 1990, and January 1, 2018, comparing clinical outcomes between END and OBS in patients with cT1/T2N0 OSCC. Information on population characteristics, study design, overall survival (OS), disease‐specific survival (DSS), and disease‐free survival (DFS) was extracted and estimated. Effect measures for outcomes were hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Thirteen retrospective and two prospective randomized studies (3,158 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Compared to OBS, END failed to significantly improve OS (HR, 1.02; 95% CI, 0.95–1.09; P = .77; fixed‐effects model), DSS (HR, 1.07; CI, 1.02–1.13; P = .31; fixed‐effects model), and DFS (HR, 0.86; CI, 0.72–1.01; P = .12; random‐effects model).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that in patients with cT1T2N0 OSCC, the OBS policy can yield markedly similar OS, DSS, and DFS to those resulting from END.

Level of Evidence

2
Partitioning of Rumen‐Protected n‐3 and n‐6 Fatty Acids is Organ‐Specific in Growing Angus Heifers
Authors: Wolf Christina , Gredig Nicole , Ulbrich Susanne E. , Kreuzer Michael , Berard Joel , Giller Katrin
Published: August 2019

Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), especially n‐3 and n‐6 fatty acids (FA), play an important role in the regulation of FA metabolism in all mammals. However, FA metabolism differs between different organs, suggesting a distinct partitioning of highly relevant FA. For the present study in cattle, a novel technology was applied to overcome rumen biohydrogenation of dietary unsaturated FA. Angus heifers were fed a straw‐based diet supplemented for 8 weeks with 450 g/day of rumen‐protected oil, either from fish (FO) or sunflower (SO). The FA composition in blood and five important organs, namely heart, kidney, liver, lung, and spleen, was examined. In blood, proportions of polyunsaturated FA were increased by supplementing FO compared to SO. The largest increase of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) proportion was found with FO instead of SO in the kidney, the lowest in the lung. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was increased more in the liver than in kidney, lung, and spleen. The heart incorporated seven times more EPA than DHA, which is more than all other organs and described here for the first time in ruminants. In addition, the heart had the highest proportions of α‐linolenic acid (18:3n‐3) and linoleic acid (18:2n‐6) of all organs. The proportions of polyunsaturated FA in the lung and spleen were exceptionally low compared to heart, liver, and kidney. In conclusion, it was shown that the response to FO in the distribution of dietary n‐3 FA was organ‐specific while proportions of n‐6 FA were quite inert with respect to the type of oil supplemented.
Internal waves pump waters in and out of a deep coastal embayment of a large lake
Authors: Flood Bryan , Wells Mathew , Dunlop Erin , Young Joelle
Published: August 2019

Large internal waves are a ubiquitous feature of many thermally stratified lakes, and result in oscillating baroclinic flows that pump water into and out of deep coastal embayments. In the long, narrow, and deep Kempenfelt Bay of Lake Simcoe, we show that stratification and circulation were coupled, so that movements of the thermocline can effectively flush the embayment much faster than hydraulic residence time from river input alone. Internal currents were driven by long‐period internal waves and resulted in large horizontal excursion lengths of several kilometers, which could drive exchange of embayment waters with the main basin. If the embayments are long, wide, and deep, Coriolis forces also deflect the internal wave to follow the coastline on the right‐hand side in the direction of travel as a Kelvin‐type wave, resulting in a net cyclonic circulation in the embayment. This residual counterclockwise flow further facilitated flushing of Kempenfelt Bay. For the summer of 2015, we estimate that forced and free internal wave dynamics alone resulted in a seasonally averaged flushing timescale as short as 17 ± 6 d for the surface mixed layer, and of 13.5 ± 5 d for the hypolimnetic waters of Kempenfelt Bay. Kempenfelt Bay is representative of many long, deep, and narrow embayments found in the Laurentian Great Lakes and arctic fjords. The exchange processes investigated here are relevant for determining the dynamics of water quality parameters used as indicators to evaluate lake health and fish habitat.