bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient RFCSA control strategy for PV connected quasi Z‐source cascaded multilevel inverter (QZS‐CMI) system
Authors: Ramya Rajendran , Sivakuaran Thangavel Swaminathan
Published: July 2019

This paper proposes an effective AI control technique‐based improved QZS‐CMI topology for interfacing PV system. Generally, the interface between the PV dc source and the load is accomplished by a QZSI. In the paper, the proposed control scheme is a consolidated execution of both the RF and CSA named as RFCSA. The principle goal of the proposed approach is to determine the efficiency of the PV system by the maximum power extraction. Here, the modeling design of QZS‐CMI is enhanced to deliver the maximum power from a PV power generating system. Initially, the objective function is defined based on their controller parameters and constraints such as voltages, current, power, and modulation index etc. These parameters are applied to the inputs of the proposed RFCSA technique. The proposed RFCSA technique is improved the voltage profile, power delivery, and minimizing the power oscillations while sharing the power to the load. The maximum power delivery to the load is ensured by an AI technique based on MPPT. The proposed AI‐based improved QZS‐CMI regulated the shoot‐through duty ratio and reduced the modulation burden. Moreover, the proposed RFCSA control technique reduced the injected power and regulates the dc link voltage, current, and frequency conditions. The proposed technique is implemented in MATLAB/Simulink platform, and their output performance is compared with the existing methods for different loading conditions.
Novel techniques for numerically efficient solution of multiscale problems in computational electromagnetics
Authors: Sharma Kapil , Mittra Raj
Published: July 2019

Multiscale problems in numerical electromagnetics are becoming increasingly common with the advent and widespread usage of compact mobile phones, body area networks, small and nano antennas, sensors, high‐speed interconnects, integrated circuits, and complex electronic packaging structures, to name just a few commercial applications. Numerical electromagnetic modeling and simulation of structures with multiscale features are highly challenging due to the fact that electrically small as well as large features are simultaneously present in the model that demands for discretization of the computational domain such that the number of degrees of freedom is very large, thus levying a heavy burden on the computational resources. The multiscale nature of a given problem also exacerbates the challenge of generating very fine meshes that do not introduce instabilities or ill‐conditioned behaviors.

In this paper, we present novel techniques for an efficient solution of multiscale problems in the time‐domain. The proposed techniques handle arbitrarily shaped objects with fine features by using the dipole moment–based method of moments (MoM) type formulation in the MoM domain and electrically large objects in the finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) domain. Scattered fields in the MoM domain are obtained in closed forms and directly in the time‐domain at the desired observation points on a planar interface, which are combined with the conventional FDTD update equations. The time‐domain scattered fields computed by using the MoM formulations presented herein are stable in their implementation.
CCN5 Reduces Ligamentum Flavum Hypertrophy by Modulating the TGF‐β Pathway
Authors: Ye Sunghyeok , Kwon Woo‐Keun , Bae Taegeun , Kim Sunghyun , Lee Jang‐Bo , Cho Tai‐Hyoung , Park Jung‐Yul , Kim Kyoungmi , Hur Junho K. , Hur Junseok W.
Published: July 2019

Ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (LFH) is the most important component of lumbar spinal canal stenosis. Although the pathophysiology of LFH has been extensively studied, no method has been proposed to prevent or treat it. Since the transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) pathway is known to be critical in LFH pathology, we investigated whether LFH could be prevented by blocking or modulating the TGF‐β mechanism. Human LF cells were used for the experiments. First, we created TGF‐β receptor 1 (TGFBR1) knock out (KO) cells with CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 biotechnology and treated them with TGF‐β1 to determine the effects of blocking the TGF‐β pathway. Subsequently, we studied the effect of CCN5, which has recently been proposed to modulate the TGF‐β pathway. To assess the predisposition toward fibrosis, α‐smooth muscle actin (αSMA), fibronectin, collagen‐1, collagen‐3, and CCN2 were evaluated with quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunocytochemistry. The TGFBR1 KO LF cells were successfully constructed with high KO efficiency. In wild‐type (WT) cells, treatment with TGF‐β1 resulted in the overexpression of the messenger RNA (mRNA) of fibrosis‐related factors. However, in KO cells, the responses to TGF‐β1 stimulation were significantly lower. In addition, CCN5 and TGF‐β1 co‐treatment caused a notable reduction in mRNA expression levels compared with TGF‐β1 stimulation only. The αSMA protein expression increased with TGF‐β1 but decreased with CCN5 treatment. TGF‐β1 induced LF cell transdifferentiation from fibroblasts to myofibroblasts. However, this cell transition dramatically decreased in the presence of CCN5. In conclusion, CCN5 could prevent LFH by modulating the TGF‐β pathway. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 37:2634–2644, 2019
Indications and Patterns of Use for Parenteral Nutrition in Pediatric Oncology
Authors: McGrath Kathleen H. , Evans Victoria , Yap Jason
Published: July 2019

Background

Children with cancer are at risk of treatment related gastrointestinal toxicity and malnutrition. Intestinal dysfunction may preclude or limit use of enteral nutrition, and parenteral nutrition (PN) may be required. Published indications for PN use in children with cancer are generally nonspecific. We sought to describe patterns of use, indications, and frequency of PN prescription in children with cancer and propose indicators to guide appropriate PN use.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of children with cancer receiving inpatient PN in a tertiary referral pediatric hospital over 12 months was performed using electronic medical record search and paper records. Data were summarized using descriptive statistics.

Results

PN was prescribed to 88 patients in 111 episodes. Total use (2377 days) represented 24% of annual inpatient days in all children with cancer. Primary clinical indications were mucositis (40%), feed intolerance (29%), postoperative (16%), or “other” (15%), (including nasogastric tube refusal (n = 6)). Patients with hematological cancer had longer median episodes (19 vs 12.5 days) and earlier commencement of PN after diagnosis (50 vs 80 days) than children with nonhematological cancer. Most PN episodes longer than 28 days were in children with hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT).

Conclusion

Inpatient PN use is common in childhood cancer. Indications include mucositis, feed intolerance, and surgical management. Patterns of use are influenced by cancer diagnosis and treatment, with greater use in children with hematological cancer and HSCT. Improved understanding and specific indications may guide appropriate PN prescription and minimize unnecessary risk, cost, and inconsistency in care.
The effect of biochar with biogas digestate or mineral fertilizer on fertility, aggregation and organic carbon content of a sandy soil: Results of a temperate field experiment
Authors: Greenberg Isabel , Kaiser Michael , Polifka Steven , Wiedner Katja , Glaser Bruno , Ludwig Bernard
Published: July 2019

Substitution of mineral fertilizers with organic soil amendments is postulated to improve productivity‐relevant soil properties such as aggregation and organic matter (OM) content. However, there is a lack of studies analyzing the effects of biochar and biogas digestate versus mineral fertilizer on soil aggregation and OM dynamics under temperate field conditions. To address this research gap, a field experiment was sampled four years after establishment on a sandy Cambisol in Germany where mineral fertilizer or liquid biogas digestate was applied with or without 3 or 40 Mg biochar ha−1 (produced at 650°C). Soil samples were analyzed for soil organic carbon (SOC) content, pH, cation exchange capacity, bulk density, water‐holding capacity, microbial biomass, aggregate size class distribution, and the SOC content associated with these size classes. 40 Mg biochar ha−1 significantly increased SOC content in all fractions, especially free particulate OM and the 2–0.25 mm fraction. The yield of small macroaggregates (2–0.25 mm) was increased by biochar, but cation exchange capacity, water‐holding capacity, and pH were not consistently improved. Thus, high‐temperature biochar applied to a sandy soil under temperate conditions is primarily recommended to increase SOC content, which could contribute to climate change mitigation if this C remains sequestered over the long‐term. Fertilizer type did not significantly affect SOC content or other measured properties of the sandy Cambisol, suggesting that replacement of mineral fertilizer with digestate has a neutral effect on soil fertility. Co‐application of biochar with digestate provided no advantages for soil properties compared to co‐application with mineral fertilizer. Thus, independent utilization of these organic amendments is equally suitable.
Was yellow lead chromate pigment used during Middle Stone Age at Sibudu rock shelter (South Africa)?
Authors: Wojcieszak Marine , Wadley Lyn , Prinsloo Linda
Published: July 2019

A recent study using the combination of optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed the presence of bright yellow residues of lead (II) chromate associated with grinding striations on a 58,000‐year‐old grindstone excavated at Sibudu rock shelter in South Africa. Lead (II) chromate (PbCrO4) exists in nature as the rare mineral crocoite, however was available as the synthetic pigment, chrome yellow, from the 19th century. At the time of the residue analysis on the grindstone, it was not possible to determine whether the yellow residues were due to modern contamination or a result of ancient use. Careful analyses of the excavation protocol followed at Sibudu rock shelter and all implements that might possibly have been in contact with the grindstone after excavation identified yellow spray paint as a possible origin of the contamination. Here, we performed experimental grinding of the mineral crocoite on a sandstone slab, sprayed yellow paint on rhyolite and compared optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopic analysis results to the archaeological sample. The optical appearance of the archaeological residues, the absence of associated minerals of crocoite, and the presence of organic matter mixed with lead chromate demonstrate that the residues on the archaeological grindstone stem from modern contamination. This paper draws attention to contamination issues originating from excavation practices.
Significance of lymph node involvement in local recurrence of colorectal cancer
Authors: Dumont Frédéric , Muñoz Miguel A. , De Franco Valéria , Wernert Romuald , Verriele Valérie , Heyman Marie‐Françoise , Kerdraon Olivier , Capitain Olivier , Guerin‐Meyer Véronique , Raimbourg Judith , Senellart Hélène , Hiret Sandrine , Raoul Jean‐Luc , Thibaudeau Emilie
Published: July 2019

Background

There are few data on lymphatic spread concomitant to local recurrence (LR) of colorectal cancer (CRC). The objectives of this study were to determine variables associated with lymphatic spread, to analyze the distribution of LN+, and understand the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

A total of 76 patients underwent resection of LR of CRC between January 2007 and December 2018 at Institut cancérologique de l’Ouest and were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Twenty‐five (32.9%) patients had lymph node (LN) involvement with LR. Lymphatics from the mesocolon‐rectum and aorto‐iliac compartments were involved in 21%, 20.3% and 18.1%, 20.3% for pelvic and retroperitoneal LRs, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the only predictive factor for LN invasion (LN+) was a primary positive LN status (odds ratio, 5.3; P = .007). Despite a trend toward a worse median overall survival in the LN+ group, the difference was not significant in comparison with the LN− group (46 vs. 57 months; P = 0.31) or with the LN− plus LN not assessed groups (46 months vs not reached; P = .07).

Conclusions

LN invasion with LR from CRC is a frequent occurrence without significant impact on survival. The only predictive factor is a primary positive nodal status.
Intraoperative Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound Imaging of Femoral Head Perfusion in Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Back Susan J. , Chauvin Nancy A. , Ntoulia Aikaterini , Ho‐Fung Victor M. , Calle Toro Juan S. , Sridharan Anush , Morgan Trudy A. , Kozak Brandi , Darge Kassa , Sankar Wudbhav N.
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is one of the most common developmental deformities of the lower extremity. Although many children are successfully treated with a brace or harness, some require intraoperative closed or open reduction and spica casting. Surgical reduction is largely successful to relocate the hip; however, iatrogenic avascular necrosis is a major source of morbidity. Recent research showed that postoperative gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can depict hip perfusion, which may predict a future incidence of avascular necrosis. As contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) assesses blood flow in real time, it may be an effective intraoperative alternative to evaluate femoral head perfusion. Here we describe our initial experience regarding the feasibility of intraoperative CEUS of the hip for the assessment of femoral head perfusion before and after DDH reduction.

Methods

This single‐institution retrospective Institutional Review Board–approved study with a waiver of informed consent evaluated intraoperative hip CEUS in children with DDH compared to postoperative contrast‐enhanced MRI. Pediatric radiologists, blinded to prior imaging findings and outcomes, reviewed both CEUS and MRI examinations separately and some time from the initial examination both independently and in consensus.

Results

Seventeen patients had 20 intraoperative CEUS examinations. Twelve of 17 (70.6%) had prereduction hip CEUS, postreduction hip CEUS, and postreduction gadolinium‐enhanced MRI. Seven of 12 (58.3%) were evaluable retrospectively. All CEUS studies showed blood flow in the femoral epiphysis before and after reduction, and all MRI studies showed femoral head enhancement after reduction. The CEUS and MRI for all 7 patients also showed physeal blood flow.

Conclusions

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound is a feasible intraoperative tool for assessing adequate blood flow after hip reduction surgery in DDH.
MicroRNA‐498 promotes proliferation, migration, and invasion of prostate cancer cells and decreases radiation sensitivity by targeting PTEN
Authors: Duan Xiu‐Mei , Liu Xiao‐Na , Li Yu‐Xin , Cao Yu‐Qing , Silayiding Aidaeraili , Zhang Rong‐Kui , Wang Ji‐Ping
Published: July 2019

Prostate cancer (PCa) remains the secondary highest cause of cancer‐related death in the United States in men. It has been reported that microRNAs can serve as key regulators in tumor development and progression in various cancers including PCa. In this study, we examined the effect of miR‐498 on proliferation, radiosensitivity, invasion, and migration of PCa cells. The proliferation of LNCaP and DU‐145 PCa cells with altered expression of miR‐498 was evaluated by MTT assay. The invasion and migration of LNCaP and DU‐145 PCa cells were assess by matrigel invasion assay and transwell migration assay. The protein expression level in PCa cells was examined by western blot. The function of miR‐498 on radiation‐induced apoptosis in LNCaP and DU‐145 PCa cells was detected by Caspase‐Glo3/7 assay. Forced expression of miR‐498 improved the proliferation, invasion and migration in PCa cells. Furthermore, miR‐498 decreased the sensitivity of PCa cells after ionizing radiation treatment. MiR‐498 reduced the radiation‐induced apoptosis in PCa cells by regulation of BAX and Bcl‐2 expression. Meanwhile, miR‐498 altered the expression of E‐cadherin, N‐cadherin, snail, and Vimentin in both LNCaP and DU‐145 PCa cells and regulated epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Further study showed that aberrant expression of miR‐498 changed the expression levels of phosphatase and tensin homolog and p‐AKT in LNCaP and DU‐145 PCa cells. In a summary, miR‐498 displayed important roles in tumor development and progression in PCa cells, and might act as a potential prognostic biomarker and predict radiotherapy response in PCa.
Pay and Promotion Policies, Good Communication, and Supervisory Training Are Key to Union Avoidance
Authors: DeMaria Alfred T.
Published: July 2019

Often in an election campaign, the union will use complaints about pay and promotion policies to convince employees they need a union. The fact is that many employers that want to avoid unions may devote insufficient resources to employee evaluation. Performance reviews may be done poorly, inconsistently, infrequently, or not at all. Many companies have never faced the responsibility for employee evaluation.
Two novel mutations in TTN of a patient with congenital myopathy: A case report
Authors: Jang Joon Young , Park Yulhyun , Jang Dae‐Hyun , Jang Ja‐Hyun , Ryu Ju Seok
Published: July 2019

Background

Early‐onset myopathies show a wide spectrum of phenotypes and are composed of various types of inherited neuromuscular diseases, making it difficult to diagnose. TTN mutation‐related myopathy is a known cause of early‐onset myopathy. Since a next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has enabled sequencing of the vast amount of DNA, TTN, which is the longest coding sequence of any human gene, mutations can now be revealed. We report a 10‐year‐old female with severe congenital muscular weakness and delayed motor development since birth.

Methods

Next‐generation sequencing as well as electromyography and muscle biopsy were performed.

Results

To date, she is incapable of walking alone. Her younger sister had similar but more severe symptoms with respiratory failure. In electromyography, short‐duration, small‐amplitude motor unit action potential, and early recruitment patterns were observed in the involved proximal muscles, suggesting myopathy. Muscle histopathology showed a specific atrophy of increased fiber size variability, frequent nuclear internalization, as well as degeneration and regeneration of fibers with type I fiber predominance, consistent with the findings of a previous report about congenital titinopathy. A NGS study revealed two different possible pathogenic variants in TTN: (a) canonical splicing mutation in the intron 105 (c. 29963‐1G>C) and (b) frameshift and truncating mutation in the exon 339 (c.92812dup/p.Arg30938LysfsTer15). All variants were confirmed by conventional Sanger sequencing.

Conclusion

We propose that unbiased genomic sequencing can be helpful in screening patients with early‐onset myopathy.
Refined discrete regular variation and its applications
Authors: Řehák Pavel
Published: July 2019

We introduce a new class of the so‐called regularly varying sequences with respect to τ and state its properties. This class, on one hand, generalizes regularly varying sequences. On the other hand, it refines them and makes it possible to do a more sophisticated analysis in applications. We show a close connection with regular variation on time scales; thanks to this relation, we can use the existing theory on time scales to develop discrete regular variation with respect to τ. We reveal also a connection with generalized regularly varying functions. As an application, we study asymptotic behavior of solutions to linear difference equations; we obtain generalization and extension of known results. The theory also yields, in some way, a new view on the tests for convergence and divergence of series; we establish the statement that generalizes Raabe test and Bertrand test.
The Preventative Effects of Procyanidin on Binge Ethanol‐Induced Lipid Accumulation and ROS Overproduction via the Promotion of Hepatic Autophagy
Authors: Cao Peng , Zhang Yu , Huang Zi , Sullivan Mitchell A. , He Zihao , Wang Jinglin , Chen Zehong , Hu Huiping , Wang Kaiping
Published: July 2019

Scope

Autophagy plays an important role in alleviating alcoholic liver disease (ALD). In this study, it is discovered that a dimer procyanidin (DPC) significantly prevented ALD by promoting hepatic autophagy.

Methods and results

Both cell and animal disease models stimulated by excessive ethanol are employed to evaluate the protective actions of DPC. Specifically, in vitro, DPC significantly decreased intracellular lipid deposition, diminished reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and elevated the level of mitochondrial membrane potential. These beneficial effects can be remarkably blocked by 3‐methyladenine, a potent autophagy inhibitor, suggesting the autophagy‐dependent protective role of DPC. In vivo, DPC pretreatment can also significantly reduce lipid accumulation, ROS overproduction, and elevated GSH content in the liver. Similarly, these protective effects of DPC can be partially reversed by chloroquine, a lysosomal inhibitor used to block the late‐stage autophagy flux. Moreover, the determinations of LC3 and p62 protein expressions, autophagic flux assessments, and transmission electron microscopy observation further demonstrate the pro‐autophagic effect of DPC.

Conclusions

DPC may activate hepatic autophagy to eliminate lipid droplets and damaged mitochondria, thereby reducing hepatic lipid disposition and ROS overproduction. This study demonstrates that DPC is a protective reagent on ALD, providing a novel strategy of fighting ALD.
Raising Fish in a Purpose-Built Conservation Aquaculture Facility Using Conservation Aquaculture Management
Authors: Tave Douglas , Toya Louie A , Hutson Alison M
Published: July 2019

The naturalized conservation aquaculture unit (refugium) at Los Lunas Silvery Minnow Refugium is the first purpose-built, large-scale conservation aquaculture mesocosm. The refugium is 0.2 ha in area, with 0.11 ha of interconnected water habitats, including a stream with sand bars, five ponds, shelves, marshes, attached bars, and overbank areas that can be inundated to create floodplains. The key components of conservation aquaculture management in the refugium are as follows: (1) no artificial feed is used, so that the fish develop the foraging strategies that will be needed in the wild and do not develop maladaptive behaviors associated with feeding; (2) the production of natural food organisms is based on indirect fertilization; (3) fish are subjected to managed predation, so that when stocked they are not behaviorally naïve; and (4) low stocking rates are used to mimic population densities in the wild. Results from 6 years of management and the lessons learned about facility design and conservation aquaculture management are discussed.
Factors That Worsen Disease Severity in Acute Pancreatitis: Implications for More Innovative Nutrition Therapy
Authors: McClave Stephen A.
Published: July 2019

The pathophysiologic process of severe acute pancreatitis involves a vicious cycle of inflammation and increasing oxidative stress. Secretory defects trap activated pancreatic enzymes within the gland leading to autodigestion while circulatory abnormalities add the insult of ischemia/reperfusion injury. What may have the greatest impact in amplifying the systemic inflammatory response, though, is intestinal failure with breakdown of gut barrier defenses, subversion of submucosal immune responses, and emergence of a virulent pathobiome. Understanding the intricacies of these changes has broad‐reaching implications for nutrition therapy, which should no longer be limited to the provision of early enteral feeding alone. Emerging strategies should attempt to maintain commensalism, bind potential pathogens, refaunate the microbiome, actively turn off inflammation, reset cross‐talk signaling with epithelial receptors, and deliver nutrients further down the gastrointestinal tract to the level of greatest microbial burden. Innovative nutrition therapy for the patient with severe acute pancreatitis should be designed to address and include all of these strategies in order to shift the course of clinical outcome toward a pattern of recovery and homeostasis.
Effect of foot care interventions for older adults using day care services
Authors: Fujii Kashiko
Published: July 2019

Aim

This study explored the prevalence of foot problems among older adults and the effectiveness of foot care interventions for improving toe‐gap force and foot flexibility. Foot problems are very common among people aged 65 years and older. However, the effects of foot care interventions on components underlying these issues (i.e., toe‐gap force and foot flexibility) are unclear.

Design

This was a quasi‐experimental study.

Methods

Eighteen older adults were divided into three groups: medical foot care intervention, combined intervention and control group. The combined intervention group received medical foot care, foot hygiene and five‐toed socks. Toe‐gap force and foot flexibility were measured.

Results

The most common foot problems were hallux valgus, toe deformities, nail discoloration and thickness and dryness. Significant differences in right foot toe‐gap force were observed between the combined intervention and control groups. There were no significant differences in foot flexibility between groups.
Curiosity's pleasure? Exploring motives for cultural consumption
Authors: Manolika Maria , Baltzis Alexandros
Published: July 2019

Although there is a robust research framework describing several motivational factors explaining cultural consumption behavior, most of these research endeavors do not rely on specific theories. Therefore, based on three psychological approaches and previous research, this study aims to identify the main motives of people consuming various cultural goods (i.e., books, recorded music, historical monuments, and festivals). To further extend current studies, this research suggests a hierarchical structure of consumer needs and investigates the motivational differences between cultural consumption behavior and demographic variables (gender and age). A structural equation modeling was employed to confirm the structure of the consumers' drives indicating that six motives (entertainment, escapism, cultural exploration, learning/curiosity, family togetherness, and socialization) can sufficiently describe individuals' needs. The above dimensions can be sorted into three higher‐order types of motivation, which are the emotional, cognitive, and social ones. The results also revealed that there are significant differences in motivation depending on cultural participation as well as demographic variables. The current findings are important not only for academics, but also for art practitioners, who need to develop effective marketing strategies, increase consumer satisfaction, and meet their economic objectives.
Pigmentation of White, Brown, and Green Chicken Eggshells Analyzed by Reflectance, Transmittance, and Fluorescence Spectroscopy
Authors: Ostertag Edwin , Scholz Miriam , Klein Julia , Rebner Karsten , Oelkrug Dieter
Published: July 2019

We report on the reflectance, transmittance and fluorescence spectra (λ=200–1200 nm) of four types of chicken eggshells (white, brown, light green, dark green) measured in situ without pretreatment and after ablation of 20–100 μm of the outer shell regions. The color pigment protoporphyrin IX (PPIX) is embedded in the protein phase of all four shell types as highly fluorescent monomers, in the white and light green shells additionally as non‐fluorescent dimers, and in the brown and dark green shells mainly as non‐fluorescent poly‐aggregates. The green shell colors are formed from an approximately equimolar mixture of PPIX and biliverdin. The axial distribution of protein and colorpigments were evaluated from the combined reflectances of both the outer and inner shell surfaces, as well as from the transmittances. For the data generation we used the radiative transfer model in the random walk and Kubelka‐Munk approaches.
Advantages of Group 4 Metallocene Bis(trimethylsilyl)acetylene Complexes as Metallocene Sources Towards Other Synthetically used Systems
Authors: Rosenthal Uwe
Published: July 2019

Active species for synthetic and catalytic applications are formed from well defined complexes or mixtures of compounds. For group 4 metallocenes, three pathways for the formation of the reactive complex fragment [Cp′2M] are known: (i) reductive mixtures and well defined complexes which are able to form the metallocene fragments either by (ii) addition or (iii) substitution reactions. In this account for each of theses systems (i)–(iii) a prominent example will be discussed in detail, (i) the Negishi reagent Cp2ZrCl2/n‐BuLi, (ii) bis(η5 : η1‐pentafulvene) complexes and (iii) metallocene bis(trimethylsilyl)acetylene complexes, to show the advantages and the disadvantages for each of these methods for synthetic applications. This account summarizes some main advantages of group 4 metallocene bis(trimethylsilyl)acetylene complexes as metallocene generating agents over other synthetically used systems. For each of the special purposes, all described systems have advantages as well as disadvantages. The aim of this overview is to help synthetic chemists in selecting the most effective system on the basis of [Cp′2M] (M=Ti, Zr) for synthetic or catalytic puposes.
Bevacizumab Use and the Risk of Arterial and Venous Thromboembolism in Patients with High‐Grade Gliomas: A Nested Case‐Control Study
Authors: Lee Inyoung , Adimadhyam Sruthi , Nutescu Edith A. , Zhou Jifang , Asfaw Alemseged A. , Sweiss Karen I. , Patel Pritesh R. , Calip Gregory S.
Published: July 2019

Study Objective

Bevacizumab is used in the treatment of recurrent glioblastoma, but evidence is limited on the incidence of thromboembolic complications regarding the use of this drug in real‐world settings. We evaluated the risk of arterial thromboembolism (ATE) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with the use of bevacizumab among adults diagnosed with high‐grade gliomas in a commercially insured U.S. population.

Design

Nested case‐control study.

Data Source

Truven Health MarketScan Commercial and Medicare Supplemental health claims databases (2009–2015).

Patients

A total of 2157 patients with high‐grade gliomas who underwent incident (first‐time) craniotomy, radiation, and concurrent temozolomide treatment between 2009 and 2015 were identified. Overall, 25 cases of ATE and 99 cases of VTE were each identified in this cohort, and each case was matched to up to 10 controls (170 for ATE and 819 for VTE) based on sex, age, quarter year of index time, and follow‐up duration by using incidence density sampling without replacement from the overall cohort. Controls were at risk for the outcome of interest (ATE or VTE) at the time of case occurrence and survived at least as long as their referent case.

Measurements and Main Results

Exposure to bevacizumab was determined during inpatient or outpatient encounters between the index date (date of the incident craniotomy) and the ATE or VTE event or corresponding matched control date. Multivariable conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the risk of ATE and VTE separately. A higher proportion of patients with ATE received bevacizumab compared with controls (28% vs 17%; adjusted OR 1.51, 95% CI 0.54–4.24), but this excess in odds was not statistically significant. Similarly, bevacizumab was not significantly associated with VTE (13% vs 9%; adjusted OR 1.40, 95% CI 0.71–2.75).

Conclusion

We found no significant association between the use of bevacizumab and the occurrence of thromboembolic events in patients with high‐grade gliomas, although our study was limited by the small number of ATE events. Because the potential for complications from arterial thrombosis cannot be completely ruled out, further research is needed to confirm the thromboembolic safety of bevacizumab in a larger sample of patients with high‐grade gliomas.
Self‐stigma and domains of well‐being in high school youth: Associations with self‐efficacy, self‐esteem, and self‐criticism
Authors: Rose Alison L. , Atkey Sarah K. , Flett Gordon L. , Goldberg Joel O.
Published: July 2019

Self‐stigma is a phenomenon in which negative public stereotypes about mental illness are internalized and can undermine help‐seeking. Unfortunately, little is known about how self‐stigmatization relates to positive well‐being indicators among youth. A sample of 134 high school students completed established measures of self‐stigma, well‐being, self‐esteem, self‐efficacy, and self‐criticism. Analyses confirmed that self‐stigma was associated with overall well‐being and five well‐being subscales (autonomy, environmental mastery, personal growth, positive relations, and self‐acceptance); the strongest associations were with autonomy and positive relations with others. The majority of these associations still held when simultaneously controlling for self‐esteem, self‐efficacy, and self‐criticism. Taken together, findings point to the need for greater awareness of self‐stigma along with an explicit focus on the promotion of protective well‐being in prevention work and interventions designed to alleviate the tendency for young people to internalize stigma. Additionally, findings have theoretical implications for the “why try” model of self‐stigma.
Associations between peer victimization and school climate: The impact of form and the moderating role of gender
Authors: Williford Anne , Fite Paula J. , Isen Debbie , Poquiz Jonathan
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the present study is to examine whether physical and relational victimization negatively impacts indicators of school climate–students’ perceptions of school safety, their attachment to school, and their help‐seeking behavior–and whether gender moderates these associations. Using a sample of 361 third through fifth‐grade students recruited from six public elementary schools, results reveal that relational and physical victimization were both uniquely associated with lower levels of school safety and school attachment, with stronger associations between school attachment and relational victimization. However, only physical victimization was negatively associated with help‐seeking, suggesting that physical victimization is more influential on help seeking as compared with relational victimization. Gender moderated the relationships between victimization and school attachment and help‐seeking with differences by form noted. No gender differences were evident in associations between the forms of peer victimization and school safety. Implications for prevention and intervention in schools are discussed.
Enhancing visuospatial skills in second graders: An exploratory follow‐up study
Authors: Fastame Maria Chiara , Pilia Annalisa
Published: July 2019

This study was intended to assess the effect of a psychoeducational computer‐assisted and paper‐and‐pencil training designed to empower visuospatial skills in students attending the second grade of the primary school. At pretest, posttest and at the subsequent 3‐months follow‐up, 44 Italian second graders were presented with a battery of tests assessing nonverbal problem solving, imagery, speed of processing, visuomotor coordination, and verbal working memory. After pretest, 22 pupils were trained by the psychoeducational intervention for 15 weekly sessions (Fastame & Antonini (2011). RECUPERO IN… abilità visuo‐spaziali [Recovery in… visuo‐spatial abilities]. Trento, Italy: Edizioni Erickson). Posttest scores and a follow‐up assessment conducted after 3 months by the end of the training documented the positive effect of the psychoeducational intervention in enhancing visuospatial functions of the experimental group. These outcomes were also replicated when a questionnaire assessing visuospatial efficacy was proposed to the teachers of the participants.
Preparation of few‐layer two‐dimensional polymers by self‐assembly of bola‐amphiphilic small molecules
Authors: Zhang Na , Wang Taisheng , Bu Xiaohai , Wu Qiong , Zhang Zewu
Published: July 2019

Two bola‐amphiphilic small molecules, based on the diphenylanthracene skeleton structure, namely, BASM‐1 and its functionalized small molecule BASM‐2, were designed and synthesized. The self‐assembly behavior and mechanism of these two molecules in aqueous solution were studied. The supramolecular two‐dimensional (2D) layer and the covalent 2D polymers were, respectively, prepared by these two molecules. What is more, the transverse size of the covalent 2D polymer laminates increased with the extension of the polymerization time. Atomic force microscopy results showed that both free‐standing single‐layer 2D polymers and few layer laminates with two to three molecular layers were obtained. So our work provides a simple and efficient method for directly preparing independent both supramolecular 2D polymers and covalent 2D polymers in liquid phase which is of great significance. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1748–1755
Determination of a Measure of Sensitivity to Shock Detonate an Explosive as a Function of its Shock Parameters
Authors: Nandlall Dennis
Published: July 2019

The sensitivity of an explosive to detonate due to a shock stimulus is examined using the shock Hugoniots of the condensed material and the detonation products. Explicit equations were developed for the initiation and detonation pressures as a function of the
shock parameters, the density, the detonation velocity and the Chapman‐Jouguet pressure which in itself is a function of the heat of detonation. We came upon defining a pressure difference,
, between the initiation and detonation pressures which appears to provide a measure of the sensitivity of the explosive to detonate due to a shock loading. For a number of explosives for which reliable shock parameters were available, our results compared very well with widely used and tested small and large scale gap test results. We demonstrated that no one parameter such as the heat of detonation, the Chapman‐Jouguet pressure or even the detonation velocity could be used as a measure of sensitivity to shock detonation but it is the net effect captured by all the parameters that provides the sensitivity of the explosive.
Study on Overdriven Detonation of Double‐Layer Shaped Charge
Authors: Liu Yakun , Yin Jianping , Wang Zhijun
Published: July 2019

Overdriven detonation(ODD) means that the detonation process of explosives no longer follows the C−J detonation process and its detonation parameters are larger than the C−J values. ODD is an unstable detonation process. With the increasing of propagation distance, detonation parameters tend to C−J value gradually. The double‐layer shaped charge (DLSC) with high detonation velocity explosive (HE) in the outer layer and low detonation velocity explosive (LE) in the inner layer can keep the axis of shaped charge in the ODD state all the time. The paper derived formulas for calculating the parameters of overdriven detonation when the HE detonates the LE. Based on the conservation of momentum, mass and energy, the functional relationship between the intensity of Mach wave and the incident angle of the detonation wave in the shaped charge is deduced. Study on the propagation law of detonation waves in DLSC with the wave shaper by numerical simulation. The results show that the peak value of Mach wave pressure in DLSC is not increased compared with that in ordinary shaped charge (OSC), but the attenuation speed of Mach wave pressure can be delayed and ultimately in the ODD state. The final parameters of the ODD state are determined by the detonation velocity and the polytropic exponent of the explosive. The results of numerical simulation are consistent with theoretical calculation, which confirms the accuracy of the formulas.
Glucocorticoid receptor upregulation increases radioresistance and triggers androgen independence of prostate cancer
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Chen Feng , Ren Yu , Weng Guobin , Keng Peter C. , Chen Yuhchyau , Lee Soo Ok
Published: July 2019

Background

Despite the overall success of radiotherapy, a significant number of patients develop radioresistance, which leads to local regional recurrence and distant metastasis. We studied whether repeated radiation treatment promotes androgen‐independent survival of prostate cancer (PCa) cells and their metastatic potential. We also studied whether glucocorticoid receptor (GR) increase in radioresistant cells is associated with acquisition of these aggressive characteristics.

Methods

Radioresistant LNCaP (LNCaPR18) and C4‐2 (C4‐2R26) PCa sublines were developed by repeated radiation treatments of parental cells. Levels and activations of androgen receptor (AR) and GR in radioresistant PCa cells and respective parental cells were investigated in quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction/Western blot analyses and immunofluorescence staining. Androgen‐independent survival of radioresistant cells was tested in in vitro cell growth assays and the castration‐resistant survival of these cell‐derived tumors were investigated in mouse xenografts.

Results

Higher GR levels, but lower AR levels were detected in radioresistant cells than in parental cells. Radiation‐induced GR upregulation was associated with increased intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate. As a consequence of GR activation, LNCaPR18 cells survived well in an androgen‐depleted culture condition while parental cells could not. Results of in vivo mouse studies showed survival of LNCaPR18 cell‐derived tumors in castrated mice while parental cell‐derived tumors regressed. The growth of LNCaPR18 cell‐derived tumors in castrated mice was impaired when treated with the anti‐GR agent mifepristone. In experiments with C4‐2/C4‐2R26 cell sets, GR activation in C4‐2R26 cells increased their metastatic potential.

Conclusion

GR activation in radioresistant cells mediates androgen independence and facilitates PCa progression.
Modifications to the representation of subgrid mixing in kilometre‐scale versions of the Unified Model
Authors: Hanley Kirsty , Whitall Michael , Stirling Alison , Clark Peter
Published: July 2019

A mixed subgrid scheme for scalars and momentum fluxes in cloud‐resolving models that includes an extra subgrid vertical flux, referred to as “the Leonard term”, accounting for the tilting of horizontal flux into the vertical by horizontal gradients in vertical velocity, was proposed by Moeng. Here we describe the implementation of the Leonard term in the current subgrid mixing scheme used in kilometre‐scale versions of the Met Office's Unified Model. We present results that show that including this extra term in the Met Office's 1.5‐km grid length UK model reduces the domain‐average precipitation by reducing the number of grid points with rainfall rates greater than 4 mm/hr, which are overrepresented by the model. Increasing the magnitude of the Leonard term further decreases the occurrence of the heaviest rainfall rates.
Application of open port sampling interface mass spectrometry (OPSI‐MS) to deuterium exchange as an aid for structural elucidation
Authors: Ray Andrew D. , Clemens Graeme , Holman Stephen W.
Published: July 2019

Rationale

Deuterium exchange has been demonstrated to provide additional information to accurate mass measurement and collision‐induced dissociation on unknown chemical structures. An enhanced method for rapid deuterium exchange could make this technique more routine for structural elucidation. Open port sampling interface mass spectrometry (OPSI‐MS) with an aprotic solvent offers a rapid method for performing deuterium incorporation.

Methods

Samples of standard drug molecules have been analysed by OPSI‐MS directly from solids using a make‐up flow of acetonitrile + 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid. The resultant spectra were compared with those obtained by OPSI‐MS analysis of the samples dissolved in deuterium oxide (D2O). Solutions of these molecules in acetonitrile/D2O were analysed using an Atmospheric Solids Analysis Probe (ASAP) at different temperatures to compare the suitability of this technique.

Results

The number of exchangeable hydrogens was obtained through deuterium exchange using the OPSI source, although there was some incomplete exchange or back‐exchange observed. Molecules with one to five exchangeable hydrogens were successfully analysed. ASAP analysis produced more complicated spectra with higher levels of incomplete or back‐exchanged ions; this was more pronounced at higher temperatures.

Conclusions

The use of OPSI provides a method for the rapid determination of the number of exchangeable hydrogens within a molecule. This yields useful information as an aid to the structural elucidation of unknowns. ASAP produces incomplete exchange and cannot be used for incorporation studies.
The contribution of citizen science volunteers to river monitoring and management: International and national perspectives and the example of the MoRPh survey
Authors: Gurnell Angela M. , England Judy , Shuker Lucy , Wharton Geraldene
Published: July 2019

The contribution of citizen scientists to worldwide environmental monitoring has increased rapidly, particularly over the last two decades, as initiatives have become increasingly wide ranging in scope and style.

River monitoring and assessment faces many challenges, especially over the longer‐term. Difficult decisions are being made over what can be measured and where. Citizen scientists are helping address these challenges by providing information on properties of river ecosystems, in particular biotic and water quality indicators, at lower cost and higher spatial and temporal coverage than would otherwise be possible and by contributing to data interpretation especially through their local knowledge. A notable deficit, however, has been the monitoring of physical characteristics and outcomes of physical interventions.

Furthermore, the development of frameworks, such as the catchment partnership approach in the United Kingdom, within which volunteers, non‐governmental organisations, charities, and statutory bodies collaborate to improve understanding of river environments and decision making, is facilitating the engagement needed to support a new generation of integrated citizen science surveys.

Within the United Kingdom, citizen scientists use the Modular River Survey to record river habitat data at a range of spatial scales to monitor physical changes and complement biological monitoring, notably the Riverfly Monitoring Initiative and associated “Riverfly Plus” surveys. They also collect geomorphological data and provide data for restoration appraisal. We present and analyse Modular River Survey data to illustrate how such new generation, multiscale, multipurpose monitoring methods can extract maximum value from the ever‐increasing citizen river science approach.