bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective study on associations between superoxide dismutase gene polymorphisms and antituberculosis drug‐induced liver injury in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Wu Tao , Bai Hao , Zhao Zhenzhen , Wang Minjin , Hu Xuejiao , Jiao Lin , Wu Qian , Liu Tangyuheng , Zhang Chunying , Chen Hao , Zhang Jingwei , Song Jiajia , Wu Lijuan , Zhou Wenjing , Tong Chongxiang , Ying Binwu
Published: August 2019

Background

Antituberculosis drug‐induced liver injury (ATDILI) is increasing globally and, hence, it is crucial to predict its risk in the clinical management of antituberculosis therapy. As a major antioxidant, superoxide dismutase (SOD) is mainly responsible for providing defence against oxidative stress, which is involved in ATDILI. The present study aimed to investigate the associations between polymorphisms in SOD genes, including Cu/ZnSOD (SOD1), mitochondrial manganese SOD (MnSOD or SOD2) and extracellular SOD (SOD3), as well as the susceptibility to ATDILI in a Chinese Han population.

Methods

In total, 1060 Chinese Han subjects highly suspected to have tuberculosis (TB) were prospectively enrolled from West China Hospital of Sichuan University. Overall, 746 subjects comprising 118 ATDILI and 628 ATD‐tolerant TB patients were eligible and were genotyped for seven single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in three SOD genes (SOD1: rs4816407 and rs1041740; SOD2: rs4880; SOD3: rs699473, rs2536512, rs2855262 and rs8192290).

Results

Logistic regression analysis showed that none of the seven genetic variants in the three SOD genes were significantly associated with susceptibility to ATDILI in the Chinese Han population after Bonferroni correction, except for a potential association for the SOD2 rs4880 A>G (G allele, p = 0.190, odds ratio = 1.53, 95% confidence interval = 1.05–2.23; GG genotype, p = 0.155).

Conclusions

The promising application of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in the SOD1, SOD2 and SOD3 genes as genetic markers for ATDILI is challenged, and further studies are needed with larger sample sizes and different ethnicities, especially for SOD2 rs4880.
Synthesis, Density Functional Theory Band Structure Calculations, Optical, and Photoelectrical Characterizations of the Novel (9‐Bromo‐3‐cyano‐5‐oxo‐1,5‐dihydro‐2H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridin‐2‐ylidene)propanedinitrile
Authors: Halim Shimaa Abdel , Ibrahim Magdy A.
Published: August 2019

Ring transformation of 6‐bromochromone‐3‐carbonitrile (1) with malononitrile dimer in basic medium furnished the unexpected (9‐bromo‐3‐cyano‐5‐oxo‐1,5‐dihydro‐2H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridin‐2‐ylidene)propanedinitrile (2, BCOCPP). Density functional theory, theoretical investigation of the electronic structure, geometries linear polarizability ⟨Δα⟩ (Quadrupole moment), first‐order hyperpolarizability ⟨β⟩ (Octapole moment), natural bonding orbital, molecular electrostatic potential contours, thermo‐chemical parameters, harmonic vibration frequencies, the FT‐IR spectrum of the compound (2, BCOCPP) in the solid phase was recorded, and time‐dependent density functional theory calculations at the B3LYP/6‐311G (d,p) level of theory, UV‐Vis spectra, in both ethanol and dioxane solvents have been employed for compound (2, BCOCPP). The geometrical and energetic parameters have been extensively investigated to reveal the reason behind the selective formation of compound (2, BCOCPP), instead of expected product 3. The Coulomb‐attenuating method‐B3LYP and Corrected Linear Response Polarizable Continuum Model studied for theoretically obtaining the electronic absorption spectra in gas phase, ethanol, and dioxane, respectively, and indicate a good agreement with the observed spectra. The heterojunction based on BCOCPP showed phototransient properties under various illumination intensities that give the recommendation of the studied heterojunction in the field of optoelectronic device application.
Copper‐Catalyzed N‐Arylation of Polysubstituted Pyridines Synthesized by the Novel Reaction of N‐Sulfonyl Ketenimine and Malononitrile‐Trichloroacetonitrile Adduct
Authors: Nematpour Manijeh , Fasihi Dastjerdi Hossein , Mahboubi Rabbani Sayyed Mohammad Ismaeil , Tabatabai Sayyed Abbas
Published: August 2019

In this study, we synthesized some new derivatives of N‐(4‐amino‐5‐cyano‐6‐(trichloromethyl)pyridin‐2‐yl)alkyl sulfonamides in the presence of a copper catalyst. A one‐pot reaction system was used, and four components participated in the process. These four components were sulfonyl azides, terminal alkynes, malononitrile, and trichloroacetonitrile. The reaction rate was increased by the use of copper (I) iodide as the catalyst and tetrahydrofuran was used as the solvent. We achieved the final compounds in moderate to good yields. Moreover, we converted “NH2” side group to N‐aryl by the use of various aryl halide analogs in acetonitrile as the solvent, under mild reaction and at the room temperature.
Lessons Learned: Parallels Between a Dissertation and Leading an Organization through Change
Authors: Davidson Meaghan K.
Published: August 2019

Many of us pursue a terminal degree because we want to advance in our organization or field. This was one of the reasons why I applied to the University of Delaware's (UD) EdD in Educational Leadership. Just before I began my dissertation, I started in a new position at UD. I was tasked with creating a new department within our division. Right away, I exercised many of the lessons taught within our EdD coursework in two different yet similar settings: the dissertation process and creating a new department within my organization. Fortunately, there are parallels between the two that make me more skilled and efficient. Though, there are some distinguishable differences between a dissertation and leading a change process. Here, I will share the lessons I have learned. I will share my insights in the areas of confidence I have because of my EdD program and how I utilize my coursework and my dissertation process to be more successful within my organization. I will also share the points of tension; things I learned in the classroom were not always in line with my work as a practitioner.
Statistical analysis of the impacts of intra‐seasonal oscillations on the South China Sea summer monsoon withdrawal
Authors: Hu Peng , Chen Wen , Chen Shangfeng , Huang Ruping
Published: August 2019

Based on multiple data sets and methods, this study investigates the impacts of intra‐seasonal oscillations (ISOs) on the South China Sea summer monsoon (SCSSM) withdrawal. A daily SCSSM withdrawal date is established, which can capture reasonably the consistent transition of low‐level zonal wind from westerly to easterly over the South China Sea (SCS). The bandpass‐filtered outgoing longwave radiation and low‐level winds are then composited with respect to the monsoon withdrawal date. It is found that a 30–60‐day oscillation originating from the equatorial Indian Ocean and a quasi‐biweekly oscillation (QBWO) propagating from the equatorial western Pacific collectively contribute to the SCSSM withdrawal. Under the background of slow annual cycle (weak zonal wind during late September), the local convectively inactive phases of these ISOs induce anomalous easterly winds, which could trigger monsoon withdrawal over the SCS. The boreal summer ISO indices also confirm that both the 30–60‐day oscillation and the QBWO could modulate SCSSM withdrawal, which is more likely to occur when the suppressed convection caused by these ISOs is either encroaching on or occupying the SCS.
Chemical basis of molluscan shell colors revealed with in situ micro‐Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Ishikawa Makiko , Kagi Hiroyuki , Sasaki Takenori , Endo Kazuyoshi
Published: August 2019

Molluscan shells exhibit a wide variety of color tones and patterns that are thought to increase fitness in different natural habitats. However, the chemical aspects of shell pigments have not been well understood. We studied the chemical basis of molluscan shell colors via resonance Raman microspectroscopy using a 514.5‐nm laser on six gastropod, 15 bivalve, and one cephalopod species. Polyene specific signals for C═C (ν1) or C─C (ν2) stretching bands were detected principally from the pigmented regions, and those peak positions correlated with the pigment colors. Because Raman shifts of those bands depend on the conjugation length of polyene backbones, which in turn, affect the highest occupied molecular orbital/lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy gap, our observations suggest that the conjugation length of polyene is a determinant factor of shell color. Further, our observations and data from previous studies seemed to reveal a quantitative relationship between polyene backbone length and shell color. From an analysis of 89 polyene‐based pigments in 45 molluscan species, we found that yellow, orange/red, and purple/brown/black pigments originate from polyenes with conjugation lengths of 7–9, 9–10, and 10–12, respectively. The shell color shifts from yellow, orange, and red to purple as the polyene chain length increases as reported for free carotenoids. The biological mechanisms underlying the spatial regulations of polyene conjugation systems in molluscan shells will be the most important and intriguing issue to be addressed in the future.
Regulation of hyperglycemia in diabetic mice by autolysates from β‐mannanase‐treated brewer's yeast
Authors: Zhou Zhongkai , Zhang Boxi , Yang Xingyue , Shang Wenting , Ma Qiuchen , Strappe Padraig
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a serious chronic disease, characterized by hyperglycemia. This study administered either β‐mannanase‐treated yeast cell autolysis supernatant (YCS) or yeast cell‐wall residues after autolysis (YCR) to investigate their influence on the alleviation of diabetes in a diabetic mouse model.

RESULTS

Application of either YCS or YCR led to body weight gain, blood glucose reduction, and an improvement in lipid composition in the diabetic mice. Administration of YCS was more effective in inhibiting oxidative stress than YCR. The expression of PPARα and CPT1α was enhanced, improving lipid biosynthesis, and Trx1 and HIF‐1‐α genes were downregulated due to the activation of thioredoxin following the interventions, indicating that the processes of lipid metabolism and oxidative stress were heavily involved in the reduction of diabetic characteristics following the interventions. The current study revealed that consumption of YCR also led to a reduction in hyperglycemia, this being associated with its richness in mineral elements, such as chromium and selenium.

CONCLUSION

This study may highlight the potential of both YCS and YCR as functional ingredients in dietary formula for improving diabetic syndromes. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Is there an impact of the dairy matrix on the survival of Lactobacillus casei Lc‐1 during shelf life and simulated gastrointestinal conditions?
Authors: Mantovani Fernanda D , de Carla Bassetto Maira , de Souza Cínthia H B , Aragon Davi C , de Santana Elsa HW , Pimentel Tatiana C , Aragon‐Alegro Lina C
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

The selection of the food matrix to be used as a vehicle for a probiotic culture is important because its chemical composition and physicochemical characteristics can affect probiotic survival during the shelf‐life of the product and under simulated gastrointestinal conditions (SGIC). The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of the dairy matrix (chocolate fermented milk beverage, chocolate flan or passion fruit flan) on the survival of Lactobacillus casei Lc‐1 during refrigerated storage (4 °C for 21 days) and SGIC.

RESULTS

Chocolate fermented milk beverage and chocolate and passion fruit flans could be considered as matrices for the incorporation of L. casei, providing suitable counts (6.38–7.84 log cfu g−1) during storage. The type of matrix had an impact on the inicial probiotic counts in the products and on the probiotic resistance to the SGIC. The chocolate fermented milk beverage presented higher initial probiotic counts (7.72 versus 6.65–7.28 log cfu g−1). The higher pH (5.3–6.8), solid matrix and increased fat content (65.0–72.9 g 100 g−1) contributed to the higher resistance to the SGIC of the chocolate and passion fruit flans, allowing recovery of viability during the enteric phase (increases of 1–1.5 log cycles).

CONCLUSION

The type of dairy matrix has an impact on the inicial probiotic counts in the products and on the probiotic resistance to the SGIC. Chocolate and passion fruit flans proved to be more suitable options than chocolate fermented milk beverage for the incorporation of Lactobacillus casei Lc‐1. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of quality parameters for fresh, used and recycled palm olein
Authors: Khor Yih Phing , Sim Biow Ing , Abas Faridah , Lai Oi Ming , Wang Yong , Nehdi Imededdine Arbi , Sbihi Hassen Mohamed , Gewik Mohamed Mossad , Tan Chin Ping
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Recycled oil has emerged as a significant food safety issue and poses a major threat to public health. To date, very limited studies have been conducted aiming to detect the adulteration of used and recycled palm olein in refined, bleached and deodorized palm olein (RBDPO). In the present study, oil samples that underwent controlled heating and deep‐frying studies were refined using the common oil refining procedure to simulate the production of recycled oil. Polymerized triacylglycerol (PTG), oxidized monomeric triacylglycerols (oxTAGs), such as epoxy, keto and hydroxy acids, and caprylic acid have been proposed as potential indicators for tracking the adulteration of recycled oil.

RESULTS

For PTG, triacylglycerol oligomers and dimers showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) after the refining process. Although there was a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the total oxTAGs concentration after refining, they were still present in the recycled palm olein, even though the used palm olein had undergone a complete oil refining process. The concentration of caprylic acid increased significantly (P < 0.05) in palm olein after undergoing various heat and deep‐frying treatments and even showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in recycled oil.

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in the present study justify the suitability of the proposed quality parameters for use as quality indices with respect to controlling the adulteration of used and recycled palm olein in RBDPO for the protection of the health and safety of consumers. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Vortices evolution in round pockets of modern machine tools
Authors: Shen Feng , Yan Chengjin , Zhao Shengwei , Xiao Jiafeng
Published: August 2019

Vortices evolutions in oil pockets of machine tools were investigated by using a particle image velocimetry (PIV) system and numerical simulations. The influences of Reynolds number (Re), aspect ratio of pocket depth‐to‐nozzle radius (e), and clearance height (h) on the vortices characteristics were studied. Up to three interacting vortices appear, namely, the primary vortex, the secondary vortex, and the tertiary vortex. The vortices evolve in a complex manner. The primary vortex appears at 15 < Re < 1610 and dominates the whole pocket flow at relatively high Re. The secondary vortex appears at Re > 210. The vortices size increases with e increasing. Moreover, the vortices detachment and reattachment positions were also been investigated. The vortices structures have significant influences on the distributions of pressures and wall shear stresses on the upper disc. The results further the understanding of vortices evolutions in oil pockets and will guide engineering applications related to the round pocket flow.
Decreased metabolism and increased tolerance to extreme environments in Staphylococcus warneri during long‐term spaceflight
Authors: Bai Po , Zhang Bin , Zhao Xian , Li Diangeng , Yu Yi , Zhang Xuelin , Huang Bing , Liu Changting
Published: August 2019

Many studies have shown that the space environment can affect bacteria by causing a range of mutations. However, to date, few studies have explored the effects of long‐term spaceflight (>1 month) on bacteria. In this study, a Staphylococcus warneri strain that was isolated from the Shenzhou‐10 spacecraft and had experienced a spaceflight (15 days) was carried into space again. After a 64‐day flight, combined phenotypic, genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic analyses were performed to compare the influence of the two spaceflights on this bacterium. Compared with short‐term spaceflight, long‐term spaceflight increased the biofilm formation ability of S. warneri and the cell wall resistance to external environmental stress but reduced the sensitivity to chemical stimulation. Further analysis showed that these changes might be associated with the significantly upregulated gene expression of the phosphotransferase system, which regulates the metabolism of sugars, including glucose, mannose, fructose, and cellobiose. The mutation of S. warneri caused by the 15‐day spaceflight was limited at the phenotype and gene level after cultivation on the ground. After 79 days of spaceflight, significant changes in S. warneri were observed. The phosphotransferase system of S. warneri was upregulated by long‐term space stimulation, which resulted in a series of changes in the cell wall, biofilm, and chemical sensitivity, thus enhancing the resistance and adaptability of the bacterium to the external environment.
Using a numerical method by omitting discretization of data to study numerical solutions for boundary value problems of fractional order differential equations
Authors: Shah Kamal
Published: August 2019

This manuscript is concerned to the numerical solutions by using shifted Jacobi polynomials (SJPs). By means of these polynomials, we construct some operational matrices (OMs) of fractional order integration and differentiation omitting collocations or discretization of data. With the help of these OMs, we establish a numerical method for the solutions of boundary value problems (BVPs) of fractional order differential equations (FODEs). The main characteristic behind this approach is that it reduces such problems to those of solving a system of algebraic equations, which greatly simplifying the problems. These algebraic equations can be easily solved by using the computational software like Matlab and Mathematica. We provide some examples to demonstrate the procedure of our proposed method. Throughout the paper, we will use the Caputo fractional order derivative.
Clinical‐neurophysiological correlations in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy patients treated with subcutaneous immunoglobulin
Authors: Cirillo Giovanni , Todisco Vincenzo , Ricciardi Dario , Tedeschi Gioacchino
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Despite the well‐described clinical efficacy of long‐term subcutaneous immunoglobulin (LT‐SCIg) in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) patients, the neurophysiological effects of SCIg have been followed only for a short time and were not correlated with clinical parameters.

Methods

Fourteen CIDP patients were evaluated at baseline and after LT‐SCIg administration for 24 to 48 months. Nerve conduction studies were performed and clinical features were assessed for: (a) overall strength, by Medical Research Council sum score; (b) sensory function, by Inflammatory Neuropathy Cause And Treatment score; (c) disability, by Rasch‐built overall disability scale; (d) quality of life (QoL), by the EuroQol Visual Analog Scale.

Results

LT‐SCIg treatment improved clinical and neurophysiological features, preserving strength and improving sensory deficits, disability, and QoL. Clinical scores correlated with the amplitude of distal motor action (dCMAP) and sensory nerve action (SNAP) potentials.

Discussion

LT‐SCIg treatment demonstrates efficacy in maintaining and continuing clinical improvement at 24 to 48 months after start of treatment. dCMAP and SNAP amplitudes represent useful prognostic factors for functional outcome.
Ultrasound‐guided dry needling decreases pain in patients with piriformis syndrome
Authors: Tabatabaiee Abbas , Takamjani Ismail Ebrahimi , Sarrafzadeh Javad , Salehi Reza , Ahmadi Maryam
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Piriformis muscle syndrome (PMS) is a disorder that can lead to symptoms of buttock pain and limited hip‐joint mobility, and may have an impact on quality of life.

Methods

Thirty‐two patients with PMS were randomized to the treatment group, which included three sessions of ultrasound‐guided dry needling (DN) of the piriformis muscle (n = 16), or a waitlist control group (n = 16). The primary outcome was pain intensity measured on the visual analog scale recorded at baseline and then at 72 hours and 1 week after treatment.

Results

At 1‐week follow‐up, pain intensity was significantly less in the DN group than in the waitlist control group (−2.16 [−1.01 to −3.32], P = .007) by an amount consistent with clinically meaningful improvement.

Discussion

The findings suggest that DN resulted in clinically meaningful short‐term improvement in pain intensity of patients with PMS.
A bond‐based peridynamic model considering effects of particle rotation and shear influence coefficient
Authors: Zheng Guojun , Shen Guozhe , Xia Yang , Hu Ping
Published: August 2019

The classical bond‐based peridynamic (BPD) model is limited with a fixed Poisson's ratio. To overcome this limitation, an improved BPD model is proposed to analyze the deformation and crack propagation of microelastic brittle materials with emphasis on varying Poisson's ratios. In the proposed model, the bond is subjected to axial and transverse pairwise forces, and the particle rotation angle is added to eliminate the additional bending moment caused by transverse forces, which is a key factor to satisfy the balance of angular momentum exactly. As a result, the bond not only has axial displacement but also has transverse displacement and particle rotation. This extension in the displacement mode overcomes the limitation of the fixed Poisson's ratio in the classical BPD model. The simulation results demonstrate the precision of the improved BPD model and prove its ability to predict deformations and crack propagations.
The mediating role of dynamic managerial capabilities: The interplay between dominant logic and small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises performance in China
Authors: Khan Kashif Ullah , Atlas Fouzia , Xuehe Zhang , Khan Farhan , Khan Shabnam
Published: August 2019

Transition economies, such as China, are characterized by volatile and rapidly changing markets. Firms, in order to be successful and get a competitive advantage over their competitors, need to build intangible resources. In the light of the resource‐based view and dominant logic (DL), this study is an endeavor in this regard and proposes that DL and managerial capabilities are intangible resources, which can drive the performance of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). We hypothesized that dynamic managerial capabilities (DMCs), measured by human capital along with social capital and managerial cognition, play a mediating role in the relationship between DL, consisting of proactiveness and routine, and firm performance. The data in this study were obtained through a survey from 204 SMEs in China and were analyzed by structural equation modeling to generate results. We found that while successfully utilizing intangible/operant resources that are characterized as firm dynamic capabilities, SMEs can achieve superior performance and competitive advantage. Our results support the proposed hypotheses that show the importance and significance of DL and DMCs in order to attain higher level of performance. The concept of DL and its impact on SME's performance has been less researched in general, particularly in China. Limited research is available regarding intangible resources and their impact on SME performance in China.
Experimental and numerical study on the tensile properties of T‐joints with low Z‐pin volume density
Authors: Li Mengjia , Chen Puhui , Li Xiping , Gong Ningning
Published: August 2019

Experiments and simulations were carried out to study the tensile performance of unreinforced and Z‐pinned composite T‐joints with low Z‐pin density (Z‐pin spacing larger than 5 mm). It was found that the initial load drop of the Z‐pinned specimen was obviously smoother than that of the unpinned specimen, and the improvement to the ultimate strength of the T‐joint was over 45% by Z‐pinning. Besides, the tensile performance of the Z‐pinned T‐joint was significantly related to the distance of the Z‐pin to the symmetry plane of the T‐joint and Z‐pin diameter, while was independent of the column spacing. Regarding the numerical study, the proposed macro T‐joint model was found to be capable of successfully predicting the tensile performance of Z‐pinned and unreinforced T‐joints in terms of both load‐displacement response and damage mode.
Synthesis and characterization of degradable hyperbranched poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline)
Authors: Ali Muhammad Waqas , Cheng Siyuan , Si Jianhao , Siddiq Muhammad , Ye Xiaodong
Published: August 2019

Hyperbranched poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) was synthesized by a combination of cationic ring‐opening polymerization and the oxidation of thiol to disulfide groups. A three‐arm star poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxazoline) (PEtOx) was first synthesized using 1,3,5‐tris(bromomethyl) benzene as an initiator. The star PEtOx was end‐capped with potassium ethyl xanthate. Similarly, a linear PEtOx was synthesized and end‐capped with potassium ethyl xanthate using benzyl bromide as an initiator. Hyperbranched PEtOx was then obtained by in situ cleaving and subsequent oxidation of the star PEtOx and linear PEtOx mixture with n‐butylamine as both a cleaving agent and a base in tetrahydrofuran. The linear PEtOx was used to prevent the formation of gel. The hyperbranched PEtOx can be cleaved with dithiothreitol to trithiol and monothiol polymer. The hyperbranched PEtOx shows no remaining thiols using Ellman's assay. The resulting hyperbranched PEtOx was hydrolyzed to a novel hyperbranched polyethyleneimine with degradable disulfide linkages. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2030–2037
Structural Strategies for Germanium‐Based Anode Materials to Enhance Lithium Storage
Authors: Hao Jian , Wang Yanxia , Guo Qingjie , Zhao Jiupeng , Li Yao
Published: August 2019

Recently, germanium (Ge) has been arousing increasing interest as an anode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and other energy storage devices due to its high theoretical capacity (1600 mAh g−1) and low operating voltage. There are still some critical problems to be solved before Ge can meet the high requirements for practical applications. In this Review, a series of attempts on rational design and synthesis of Ge‐based anode materials during the past few years are summarized. Structural and composition strategies that could resolve the issue of vast volume changes in Ge during cycling and enhance their electrochemical properties are focused on. The main strategies include designing nanostructures and forming Ge‐based composites and Ge‐based alloys. Lastly, the challenges for practical implementation of Ge anodes within the context of current LIB systems are discussed.
Prenatal exposure to opioid maintenance treatment and neonatal outcomes: Nationwide registry studies from the Czech Republic and Norway
Authors: Handal Marte , Nechanská Blanka , Skurtveit Svetlana , Lund Ingunn Olea , Gabrhelík Roman , Engeland Anders , Mravčík Viktor
Published: August 2019

There is lack of knowledge about the safety of treatment with methadone and buprenorphine as part of opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) during pregnancy. The purpose of this study was to examine neonatal outcomes concerning the use of OMT during pregnancy. We used nationwide registry linkages from the Czech Republic (2000‐2014) and Norway (2004‐2013). We compared prenatally OMT–exposed newborns with (a) newborns of women hospitalized with opioid use disorder during pregnancy in the Czech sample and (b) newborns with neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) in Norway. We performed multivariate linear and binary logistic regression exploring the associations between OMT and neonatal outcomes (growth parameters, gestational age, fetal death, small for gestational age, Apgar score, and NAS). Regression coefficients (b) and odds ratios (ORs) were estimated. The cohorts consisted of 333 Czech, and 235 Norwegian OMT–exposed newborns, and 106 and 294 newborns in the comparison groups, respectively. In both countries, the neonatal growth parameters were similar in the OMT and the comparison groups. In Norway, OMT exposure prolonged gestational age (adjusted b = 0.96 weeks, 95% confidence interval [CI] =0.39‐1.53) while the odds of preterm birth and Apgar score at 5 minutes were lower than in the comparison group (adjusted OR = 0.35, 0.16‐0.75 and aOR = 0.21, 0.06‐0.78, respectively). Newborns of women in OMT had similar growth parameters as newborns of women with opioid use disorders who were not in OMT during pregnancy. Overall, our findings do not suggest that OMT results in worse neonatal outcomes.
Settlement intention of migrants in the Yangtze River Delta, China: The importance of city‐scale contextual effects
Authors: Dang Yunxiao , Chen Yu , Dong Guanpeng
Published: August 2019

Millions of Chinese migrants have moved from the countryside to cities to seek job opportunities and a better life. Under the policy shift from “land‐based urbanisation” to “people‐oriented urbanisation,” it is important to understand what determines migrants' settlement intentions. Although previous studies have primarily focused on sociodemographic impacts on settlement intention, the role of city‐level contexts is understudied. Drawing upon data, the 2015 Migrant Dynamic Monitoring Survey in the Yangtze River Delta, this paper addresses this gap by examining the impact of contextual features in host cities, including population size, employment structure, wage levels, and house prices on migrants' settlement intentions. We find that house prices are negatively associated with migrants' decision to settle, and wage levels have a positive effect on migrants with tertiary education. Cities with over 10 million residents or high administrative status are particularly attractive to migrants wishing to settle in urban environments.
Spatial and seasonal variability of clouds over the southwest Indian Ocean based on the DARDAR mask product
Authors: Vérèmes Hélène , Listowski Constantino , Delanoë Julien , Barthe Christelle , Tulet Pierre , Bonnardot François , Roy Denis
Published: August 2019

We present a characterization of the variability of clouds over the southwest Indian Ocean between 2007 and 2010. Cloud occurrence is derived from the DARDAR (raDAR/liDAR) mask, a synergistic product based on Cloud–Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) and CloudSat measurements. It provides a target classification for hydrometeors. We demonstrate that this product is suitable for studying the vertical, spatial and seasonal cloud distribution in the southwest Indian Ocean. The variability of cloud occurrence increases approaching the tropics: the average maximum amplitude of monthly occurrence is ∼7% between 30°S and 60°S and ∼14% between 10°S and 30°S. The 10–30°S latitudinal band exhibits the largest contrasts: summer (winter) total cloud occurrence is mainly driven by high‐ (low‐) level clouds. The vertical distribution of clouds differs on either side of 55°E and this is related to a land–ocean contrast and to large‐scale influence. In winter, east of 55°E, the maximum of cloud occurrence corresponds to warm and mixed‐phased precipitating clouds associated with the Mascarene High. In summer, west of 55°E, the vertical distribution of cloud occurrence is driven by deep convection associated with the InterTropical Convergence Zone and the Near Equatorial Trough. The vertical distribution of cloud occurrence shows an interannual variability that is related to El Niño events. The influence of other oscillation modes should be further investigated.
Paper spray screening and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry confirmation for medication adherence testing: A two‐step process
Authors: Costa Catia , Frampas Cecile , Longman Katherine A. , Palitsin Vladimir , Ismail Mahado , Sears Patrick , Nilforooshan Ramin , Bailey Melanie J.
Published: August 2019

Rationale

Paper spray offers a rapid screening test without the need for sample preparation. The incomplete extraction of paper spray allows for further testing using more robust, selective and sensitive techniques such as liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Here we develop a two‐step process of paper spray followed by LC/MS to (1) rapidly screen a large number of samples and (2) confirm any disputed results. This demonstrates the applicability for testing medication adherence from a fingerprint.

Methods

Following paper spray analysis, drugs of abuse samples were analysed using LC/MS. All analyses were completed using a Q Exactive™ Plus Orbitrap™ mass spectrometer. This two‐step procedure was applied to fingerprints collected from patients on a maintained dose of the antipsychotic drug quetiapine.

Results

The extraction efficiency of paper spray for two drugs of abuse and metabolites was found to be between 15 and 35% (analyte dependent). For short acquisition times, the extraction efficiency was found to vary between replicates by less than 30%, enabling subsequent analysis by LC/MS. This two‐step process was then applied to fingerprints collected from two patients taking the antipsychotic drug quetiapine, which demonstrates how a negative screening result from paper spray can be resolved using LC/MS.

Conclusions

We have shown for the first time the sequential analysis of the same sample using paper spray and LC/MS, as well as the detection of an antipsychotic drug from a fingerprint. We propose that this workflow may also be applied to any type of sample compatible with paper spray, and will be especially convenient where only one sample is available for analysis.
Evaluation of semi‐analytical model for rigid projectile penetration into concrete/metal targets
Authors: Dashtian Gerami Nasser , Khazraiyan Najmeh
Published: August 2019

The main objective of this research is to evaluate a proposed semi‐analytical model for penetration process of rigid projectile in concrete and concrete/metal targets using experimental and numerical methods. In theoretical analysis of this study, the dynamics cavity expansion theory and the wave reflection time in the form of tensile in concrete slab are used. The effect of the friction coefficient is also investigated during the penetration process. The equations are then generalized for two‐layered targets made out of concrete and steel. A series of penetration tests and numerical simulations in LS‐DYNA software are conducted to evaluate the proposed model. The main obtained parameters are residual velocity, penetration depth, and ballistic limit velocity. The analytical results are compared with experimental and numerical data. These results are in agreement with each other.
Introduction of a mineral powder as a type of natural cementitious material in concrete: An experimental program
Authors: Fazilati Mehdey , Golafshani Emadaldin M.
Published: August 2019

The principal air pollution within the concrete enterprise is cement in charge of roughly 5–7% of manufactured CO2 emissions. For reducing CO2 emissions and improving concrete properties, new types of natural cementitious materials have been served in concrete throughout the last two decades. In this study, a mineral powder (MP) as a type of supplementary cementitious material has been introduced and the chemical and physical properties of this MP and mechanical properties of the produced concrete were investigated. In this regard, the total number of 24 concrete mixes with 0 to 40% replacement of Portland cement (PC) with MP was designed. Concrete samples were tested for compressive, flexural, splitting tensile strengths, and elastic modulus at the age of 7, 28, 42, and 90 days. The experimental results indicate that the maximum compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strengths are obtained by replacing about 5% PC with MP. Finally, the amount of CO2 emission reduction for concrete specimens containing MP was evaluated.
Relativizing Identity
Authors: Molto Daniel ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: August 2019

In this paper, I defend Peter Geach’s theory of Relative Identity against the charge that it cannot make sense of basic semantic notions.
Boundary conditions for General Relativity in three-dimensional spacetimes, integrable systems and the KdV/mKdV hierarchies
Authors: Ojeda Emilio , Pérez Alfredo
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We present a new set of boundary conditions for General Relativity on AdS3, where the dynamics of the boundary degrees of freedom are described by two independent left and right members of the Gardner hierarchy of integrable equations, also known as the “mixed KdV-mKdV” hierarchy. This integrable system has the very special property that simultaneously combines both, the Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) and modified Korteweg-de Vries (mKdV) hierarchies in a single integrable structure. This relationship between gravitation in three-dimensional spacetimes and two-dimensional integrable systems is based on an extension of the recently introduced “soft hairy boundary conditions” on AdS3, where the chemical potentials are now allowed to depend locally on the dynamical fields and their spatial derivatives. The complete integrable structure of the Gardner system, i.e., the phase space, the Poisson brackets and the infinite number of commuting conserved charges, are directly obtained from the asymptotic analysis and the conserved surface integrals in the gravitational theory. These boundary conditions have the particular property that they can also be interpreted as being defined in the near horizon region of spacetimes with event horizons. Black hole solutions are then naturally accommodated within our boundary conditions, and are described by static configurations associated to the corresponding member of the Gardner hierarchy. The thermodynamic properties of the black holes in the ensembles defined by our boundary conditions are also discussed. Finally, we show that our results can be naturally extended to the case of a vanishing cosmological constant, and the integrable system turns out to be precisely the same as in the case of AdS3.
An algebraic classification of exceptional EFTs
Authors: Roest Diederik , Stefanyszyn David , Werkman Pelle
Published: August 2019

Abstract

We classify four-dimensional effective field theories (EFTs) with enhanced soft limits, which arise due to non-linearly realised symmetries on the Goldstone modes of such theories. We present an algorithm for deriving all possible algebras that can be non-linearly realised on a set of Goldstone modes with canonical propagators, linearly realised Poincaré symmetries and interactions at weak coupling. An important ingredient in our analysis is inverse Higgs trees which systematically incorporate the requirements for the existence of inverse Higgs constraints. These are the algebraic cousin of the on-shell soft data one provides for soft bootstrapping EFTs. We perform full classifications for single scalar and multiple spin-1/2 fermion EFTs and present a thorough analysis for multiple scalars. In each case there are only a small number of algebras consistent with field-dependent transformation rules, leading to the class of exceptional EFTs including the scalar sector of Dirac-Born-Infeld, Special Galileon and Volkov-Akulov theories. We also discuss the coupling of a U(1) gauge vector to the exceptional scalar theories, showing that there is a Special Galileon version of the full Dirac-Born-Infeld theory. This paper is part I in a series of two papers, with the second providing an algebraic classification of supersymmetric theories with non-linearly realised symmetries.
A review of microsampling techniques and their social impact
Authors: Lei Benson U. W. , Prow Tarl W.
Published: August 2019

Conventional skin and blood sampling techniques for disease diagnosis, though effective, are often highly invasive and some even suffer from variations in analysis. With the improvements in molecular detection, the amount of starting sample quantity needed has significantly reduced in some diagnostic procedures, and this has led to an increased interest in microsampling techniques for disease biomarker detection. The miniaturization of sampling platforms driven by microsampling has the potential to shift disease diagnosis and monitoring closer to the point of care. The faster turnaround time for actionable results has improved patient care. The variations in sample quantification and analysis remain a challenge in the microsampling field. The future of microsampling looks promising. Emerging techniques are being clinically tested and monitored by regulatory bodies. This process is leading to safer and more reliable diagnostic platforms. This review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of current skin and blood microsampling techniques.
Lucidity in dementia: A perspective from the NIA
Authors: Eldadah Basil A. , Fazio Elena M. , McLinden Kristina A.
Published: August 2019

In this issue of Alzheimer's & Dementia, Mashour et al. propose the intriguing hypothesis that some manifestations of late‐stage dementia are reversible, albeit transiently. Calling this phenomenon paradoxical lucidity, their paper follows a 2018 workshop sponsored by the National Institute on Aging that assessed the state of knowledge on lucidity in dementia and identified areas ripe for further study. The National Institute on Aging has since released two funding opportunity announcements (RFA‐AG‐20‐016 and RFA‐AG‐20‐017) to establish the building blocks of such a research program. The potential challenges of conducting such studies are matched by the potential opportunities to open a novel window onto our understanding of dementia. Initial findings from this research may eventually lead to studies that uncover novel mechanisms underlying cognitive decline, identify potential preventive or therapeutic approaches for individuals with dementia, offer more effective strategies for caregivers, and perhaps even expand our understanding of the nature of personhood and consciousness.
Shaping and Re-shaping the Duty of Loyalty in Japanese Law
Authors: TAOKA Eriko
Published: August 2019

The duty of loyalty has been notoriously vague since its introduction into Japanese law. The vagueness of the duty becomes particularly problematic because although the duty overlaps with the duty of care, a breach of each of the duties is subject to different remedial rules. By focusing primarily on duties owed by a trustee and agent, this article attempts to re-define the duty of loyalty and clarify the conceptual relationship between the duties of loyalty and care in Japanese law. The article first explains the current complexity in the scope and nature of the duty of loyalty, and the relationship between the duties of loyalty and care in corporate, trust, and agency laws in Japan. Second, borrowing ideas from Lionel Smith's account of the fundamental nature of the fiduciary duty, this article attempts to re-shape the concept of the duty of loyalty while properly differentiating it from the duty of care in Japanese law.
Aligning taxes and spending: theory and experimental evidence
Authors: HEMEL DANIEL , PORTER ETHAN
Published: August 2019

Under what circumstances will members of the public hold positive attitudes toward new or higher taxes? While some scholars have posited that the practice of “earmarking” – designating tax revenues for a particular purpose – can increase support for taxes, the existing literature has not identified the conditions under which earmarking will prove effective in this regard. Here, we draw upon previous research on consumer behavior to hypothesize that support for earmarked taxes will be stronger when such taxes satisfy the criterion of “source–use alignment” (i.e., when the connection between the revenue source and the use for which those revenues are earmarked accords with familiar consumer fairness norms). Evidence in support of this hypothesis comes from two experiments on a sample of US residents matched to Census data, in which subjects were randomly assigned to read descriptions of hypothetical earmarked taxes with varying levels of alignment. Individuals consistently expressed stronger support for earmarked taxes that achieved source–use alignment as compared to earmarked taxes that did not satisfy the source–use alignment criterion. Our theory and results not only help to explain why some earmarked taxes are more popular than others, but also suggest a means for increasing public support for taxes.
Smart Contracts: Reducing Risks in Economic Exchange with No-Party Trust?
Authors: EENMAA-DIMITRIEVA Helen , SCHMIDT-KESSEN Maria José
Published: August 2019

Our study on smart contracts, self-executing agreements based on blockchain technology, can be placed in the field of inquiry within law and economics of contracts which explores new modes of contract enforcement as sources of market creation. We lay the foundations by characterising contract enforcement and trust mechanisms underlying contracts. Considering that trust reduces risks in economic exchange, we explain how the particular trust mechanism underlying smart contracts’ enforcement (no-party trust) provides opportunities for creating new markets and changing existing ones. We explore, among other things, whether using smart contracts could be a path to increasing the autonomy of consumers and offering a solution for democratising trade.
Single-shot electrons and protons time-resolved detection from high-intensity laser–solid matter interactions at SPARC_LAB
Authors: Bisesto F. , Galletti M. , Anania M. P. , Ferrario M. , Pompili R. , Botton M. , Zigler A. , Consoli F. , Salvadori M. , Andreoli P. , Verona C.
Published: August 2019

Laser–plasma interactions have been studied in detail over the past twenty years, as they show great potential for the next generation of particle accelerators. The interaction between an ultra-intense laser and a solid-state target produces a huge amount of particles: electrons and photons (X-rays and
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-rays) at early stages of the process, with protons and ions following them. At SPARC_LAB Test Facility we have set up two diagnostic lines to perform simultaneous temporally resolved measurements on both electrons and protons.
Neutral stability curves of compressible Görtler flow generated by low-frequency free-stream vortical disturbances
Authors: Viaro Samuele , Ricco Pierre
Published: August 2019

Pre-transitional compressible boundary layers perturbed by low-frequency free-stream vortical disturbances and flowing over plates with streamwise-concave curvature are studied via matched asymptotic expansions and numerically. The Mach number, the Görtler number and the frequency of the free-stream disturbance are varied to obtain the neutral stability curves, i.e. curves in the space of the parameters that distinguish spatially growing from spatially decaying perturbations. The receptivity approach is used to calculate the evolution of Klebanoff modes, highly oblique Tollmien–Schlichting waves influenced by the concave curvature of the wall, and Görtler vortices. The Klebanoff modes always evolve from the leading edge, the Görtler vortices dominate when the influence of the curvature becomes significant and the Tollmien–Schlichting waves may precede the Görtler vortices for moderate Görtler numbers. For relatively high frequencies the triple-deck formalism allows us to confirm the numerical result of the negligible influence of the curvature on the Tollmien–Schlichting waves when the Görtler number is an order-one quantity. Experimental data for compressible Görtler flows are mapped onto our neutral-curve graphs and earlier theoretical results are compared with our predictions.