bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerebral oxygen extraction fraction: Comparison of dual‐gas challenge calibrated BOLD with CBF and challenge‐free gradient echo QSM+qBOLD
Authors: Cho Junghun , Ma Yuhan , Spincemaille Pascal , Pike Gilbert Bruce , Wang Yi
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To compare cortical gray matter oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) estimated from 2 MRI methods: (1) the quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) plus quantitative blood oxygen level dependent imaging (qBOLD) (QSM+qBOLD or QQ), and (2) the dual‐gas calibrated‐BOLD (DGCB) in healthy subjects; and to investigate the validity of iso‐cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption assumption during hypercapnia using QQ.

Methods

In 10 healthy subjects, 3 tesla MRI including a multi‐echo gradient echo sequence at baseline and hypercapnia for QQ, as well as an EPI dual‐echo pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling for DGCB, were performed under a hypercapnic and a hyperoxic condition. OEFs from QQ and DGCB were compared using region of interest analysis and paired t test. For QQ, cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption = cerebral blood flow*OEF*arterial oxygen content was generated for both baseline and hypercapnia, which were compared.

Results

Average OEF in cortical gray matter across 10 subjects from QQ versus DGCB was 35.5 ± 6.7% versus 38.0 ± 9.1% (P = .49) at baseline and 20.7 ± 4.4% versus 28.4 ± 7.6% (P = .02) in hypercapnia: OEF in cortical gray matter was significantly reduced as measured in QQ (P < .01) and in DGCB (P < .01). Cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption (in μmol O2/min/100 g) was 168.2 ± 54.1 at baseline from DGCB and was 153.1 ± 33.8 at baseline and 126.4 ± 34.2 (P < .01) in hypercapnia from QQ.

Conclusion

The differences in OEF obtained from QQ and DGCB are small and nonsignificant at baseline but are statistically significant during hypercapnia. In addition, QQ shows a cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen consumption decrease (17.4%) during hypercapnia.
MR electrical properties imaging using a generalized image‐based method
Authors: Soullié Paul , Missoffe Alexia , Ambarki Khalid , Felblinger Jacques , Odille Freddy
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To develop a fast and easy‐to‐use electrical properties tomography (EPT) method based on a single MR scan, avoiding both the need of a B1‐map and transceive phase assumption, and that is robust against noise.

Theory

Derived from Maxwell’s equations, conductivity, and permittivity are reconstructed from a new partial differential equation involving the product of the RF fields and its derivatives. This also allows us to clarify and revisit the relevance of common assumptions of MREPT.

Methods

Our new governing equation is solved using a 3D finite‐difference scheme and compared to previous frameworks. The benefits of our method over selected existing MREPT methods are demonstrated for different simulation models, as well as for both an inhomogeneous agar phantom gel and in vivo brain data at 3T.

Results

Simulation and experimental results are illustrated to highlight the merits of the proposed method over existing methods. We show the validity of our algorithm in versatile configurations, with many transition regions notably. Complex admittivity maps are also provided as a complementary MR contrast.

Conclusion

Because it avoids time‐consuming RF field mapping and generalizes the use of standard MR image for electrical properties reconstruction, this contribution is promising as a new step forward for clinical applications.
Attributes associated with person‐centered care competence among undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Park Eunhye , Choi JiSun
Published: August 2020

Person‐centered care is widely recognized as a promising practice to improve patient care quality. However, little is known about the competencies of nursing students who are essential to providing high‐quality person‐centered care. In this study, relevant attributes, including professional nursing competence, empathy, and self‐awareness, were examined in relation to person‐centered care competence among South Korean nursing students while controlling for individual characteristics, including age, gender, religion, and academic performance. Data were collected from 213 senior students enrolled in four nursing schools in South Korea from November 15 to 30, 2017. The mean age of the nursing students in the sample was 23 years. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analyses while accounting for the students nested in their schools. Professional nursing competence and empathy were strongly associated with person‐centered care competence among nursing students. Of the five aspects of professional nursing competence, human understanding and communication skills were the most likely to be associated with person‐centered care competence. Moreover, there were few variations across nursing schools in the levels of professional nursing competence. Our findings corroborate the importance of developing better communication skills and empathy to improve and maintain person‐centered care competence among nursing students who belong to a new generation.
Optimizing the performance of the feedback controller for state‐based switching bilinear systems
Authors: Lin Shu , Li Dewei , Schutter Bart
Published: August 2020

This article is concerned with the design and performance optimization of feedback controllers for state‐based switching bilinear systems (SBLSs), where subsystems take the form of bilinear systems in different state space polyhedra. First, by further dividing the subregions into smaller regions and designing region‐dependent feedback controllers in the resulting regions, the SBLSs can be transformed into corresponding switching linear systems (SLSs). Then, for these SLSs, by imposing contractility conditions on the Lyapunov functions, an upper bound on the infinite horizon quadratic cost can be obtained. Optimizing this upper bound yields the controller design. The optimization problem is formulated as a linear matrix inequalities optimization problem, which can be solved efficiently. Finally, the stability of the close‐loop system under the proposed controller is established step by step through a decreasing overall Lyapunov function.
Management ability, political influence, and financial pressure on deferred claims of Iranian banks
Authors: Piri Habib , Salehi Mahdi , Mousavi Shiri Mahmoud
Published: August 2020

The present study aims to assess the relationship between management ability, political influence, and financial pressure, as well as deferred claims, of the listed banks on the Tehran Stock Exchange. Data of the banks on the Tehran Stock Exchange have been assessed from 2009 to 2017, to assess the effect of management ability, political influence, and financial pressure on bank deferred claims. For evaluating the deferred claims, three indices of doubtful accounts, bank delays, and loan‐to‐deposit ratios were used. The findings of the study show that there is no relationship between managerial ability and bank delay indices. Furthermore, the results also reveal there is a relationship between political influences and state‐owned ownership, as well as doubtful accounts, and also the relationship between state‐owned ownership and the loan‐to‐deposit ratio is positive and significant.
An assessment of United Kingdom's trade with developing countries under the generalised system of preferences
Authors: Akinmade Babatunde , Khorana Sangeeta , Adedoyin Festus Fatai
Published: August 2020

The European Union (EU) generalised system of preferences (GSP Scheme) grants preferential treatment to 88 eligible countries. There are, however, concerns that the restrictive features (such as rules of origin, low preference margin and low coverage) of the existing scheme indicate gravitation towards commercial trade agenda to which efficiency imperatives appear subordinated. Whether these concerns are genuine is an empirical question whose answer largely determines whether, after Brexit, the United Kingdom continues with the existing specifics of the EU scheme or develops a more inclusive United Kingdom‐specific GSP framework. This study quantitatively examines the efficiency of the EU GSP as it relates to United Kingdom beneficiaries from 2014 to 2017. We draw on the descriptive efficiency estimation (the utilisation rate, potential coverage rate and the utility rate) using import data across 88 beneficiary countries and agricultural products of the Harmonised System Code Chapter 1 to 24. Asides the Rules of Origin that, generally, harm the uptake of GSP, low preference margin is found to cause low utilisation rates in a non‐linear manner. Essentially, a more robust option (such that allows “global Cumulation” or broader product coverage) could, substantially, lower the existing barriers to trade and upsurge the efficiency of the GSP scheme.
Food and nutrition security: Role of state support policies in Odisha
Authors: Sahoo Malayaranjan
Published: August 2020

This study focuses on Food and nutrition security in Odisha and specifically survey the contribution of PDS and ICDS on food and nutrition security in the NAGADA village of Jajpur district of Odisha. The whole study is based upon descriptive and qualitative in nature. This analysis is based on the source of both primary and secondary data. The main tool for data collections are the interview schedule from the Nagada village (Odisha, India). The interview schedules contained mostly close ended questions, though some open ended and structure questions also administered. It is found that most of the people in that village depend on PDS. ICDS scheme is not functioning in the study village. For impact of socio‐economic parameter on health status, we got education of the households, female education, MPCE and casual labors show significant relation, whereas household size display negative and case and land own do not show any relation with health status.
Osteosarcoma
Authors: Eaton Bree R. , Schwarz Rudolf , Vatner Ralph , Yeh Brian , Claude Line , Indelicato Daniel J. , Laack Nadia
Published: August 2020

Osteosarcoma is a rare tumor that requires complex multidisciplinary management. This paper reviews the general management and standard radiotherapy guidelines for osteosarcoma in both North America and Europe in a joined effort between the Children's Oncology Group and International Society of Pediatric Oncology. Standard treatment involves multiagent induction chemotherapy followed by surgical resection for local tumor control and consolidation local control to metastatic sites. Radiotherapy is reserved for cases with a marginal or incomplete resection or for definitive treatment in the case of unresectable disease. We present supporting data for the role of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.
Levofloxacin prophylaxis in hospitalized children with leukemia: A cost‐utility analysis
Authors: Maser Brandon , Pelland‐Marcotte Marie‐Claude , Alexander Sarah , Sung Lillian , Gupta Sumit
Published: August 2020

Background

Infections are common and are a major cause of morbidity and mortality during treatment of childhood leukemia. We evaluated the cost effectiveness of levofloxacin antibiotic prophylaxis, compared to no prophylaxis, in children receiving chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Procedures

A cost‐utility analysis was conducted from the perspective of the single‐payer health care system using a lifetime horizon. A comprehensive literature review identified available evidence for effectiveness, safety, costs of antibiotic prophylaxis in children with leukemia, and health utilities associated with the relevant health states. The effects of levofloxacin prophylaxis on health outcomes, quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALY), and direct health costs were derived from a combined decision tree and state‐transition model. One‐way deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to test the sensitivity of results to parameter uncertainty.

Results

The literature review revealed one randomized controlled trial on levofloxacin prophylaxis in childhood AML and relapsed ALL, by Alexander et al, that showed a significant reduction in rates of fever and neutropenia (71.2% vs 82.1%) and bacteremia (21.9% vs 43.4%) with levofloxacin compared to no prophylaxis. In our cost‐utility analysis, levofloxacin prophylaxis was dominant over no prophylaxis, resulting in cost savings of $542.44 and increased survival of 0.13 QALY. In probabilistic sensitivity analysis, levofloxacin prophylaxis was dominant in 98.8% of iterations.

Conclusions

The present analysis suggests that levofloxacin prophylaxis, compared to no prophylaxis, is cost saving in children receiving intensive chemotherapy for AML or relapsed ALL.
Deformation and energy absorption characters of Al‐CFRP hybrid tubes under quasi‐static radial compression
Authors: Zha Yibin , Ma Qihua , Gan Xuehui , Cai Ming , Zhou Tianjun
Published: August 2020

To take into account the lightweight and collision safety of the energy absorber, metal‐composite hybrid thin‐walled tubes have been widely studied, which combine the low‐cost metal and high‐strength composites. Therefore, the deformation mechanism and the characteristics of the carbon fiber reinforced plastic wound thin‐walled aluminum tube (Al‐CFRP) were investigated under radial compression condition. Firstly, aluminum tubes, CFRP tubes, and four winding angles of Al‐CFRP hybrid tubes (27°, 45°, 74°, 90°) are experimentally analyzed. The contrastive results show that the stability and energy absorption of the Al‐CFRP hybrid tube are improved and the winding angle is one of the important factors that affects the radial compression performance of the hybrid tube. And then based on the hybrid model, some theoretical relations are derived to forecast the initial collapse force and energy absorption quickly. The theoretical analysis shows that the radial force on the hybrid tube during the compression is also dependent on the thickness ratio of Al‐CFRP layers complicatedly except the winding angle. Therefore, the effects of the winding angle (0‐90°) and thickness ratio of Al‐CFRP layers (0.25‐3.5) on the radial compression performance are investigated. The theoretical predication results show that the hybrid with the winding angle of 90° and thickness ratio of Al‐CFRP layers of 0.25 performs over six times of the initial collapse force than the Al tube. Finally, the simulated model based on ANSYS and LS‐DYNA is established to explain the reason for the better radial compression performance (A5C10S90) and the deformation mechanism of the hybrid tube, through the stress analysis of inner Al tube, inner CFRP layer, and outer CFRP layer, respectively. It is found that the Al‐CFRP hybrid tube (especially 90°) under radial compression shows better bearing capacity which represents the higher initial collapse force, total energy absorption and specific energy absorption, due to the supporting of the inner Al tube and the protection of the outer CFRP tube.
Effect of multi‐walled carbon nano‐tube on mechanical behavior of glass laminate aluminum reinforced epoxy composites
Authors: Logesh K. , Hariharasakthisudhan P. , Rajan B. Surya , Moshi A. Arul Marcel , Khalkar V.
Published: August 2020

This research work is focused on development of epoxy based fiber metal laminate (FML) that comprised of multi‐walled carbon nano‐tube (MWCNT), glass fiber, and aluminum metal sheet. The hand layup technique was employed to fabricate the sandwich FML with different weight percentages (3, 4, and 5 wt%.) of MWCNT. The mechanical properties of the developed FMLs were determined through tensile, flexural, lap shear, and hardness tests following ASTM and IS standards. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to characterize the failure mechanism of composites. The FML with MWCNT offered superior tensile and shear properties up to the addition of 4 wt%. The MWCNTs were found to be agglomerated in the epoxy when added more than 4 wt%. The FML's showed larger deformation before complete failure in shear mode with respect to the addition of MWCNTs. However, there was no considerable improvement recorded in the flexural and impact behavior of the FML composition. The addition of MWCNT fillers in the epoxy turned it more brittle and exhibited comparatively less deformation before failure in flexural mode.
Congenital isolated clubfoot: Correlation between prenatal assessment and postnatal degree of severity
Authors: Lanna Mariano , Casati Daniela , Torre Clelia , Monforte Sergio , Andreacchio Antonio , Faiola Stefano , Cetin Irene , Rustico MariaAngela
Published: August 2020

Objective

Since prenatal diagnosis of isolated clubfoot has a false positive rate (FP) of 10%‐40%, fetal parameters that might correlate with post‐natal confirmation and grade of severity were investigated.

Method

Retrospective analysis (2013‐2019) of cases analysed with three‐dimensional multiplanar view. The following data were recorded: the angle between the long axis of foot and lower leg; width, length and width‐to‐length ratio (W/L) of the foot; tibia length and calf width (T/C) ratio. Severity after birth was assessed using the Pirani classification.

Results

Diagnosis was confirmed in 45/53 neonates (84.9%, FP 15%). Values were higher for both angle and W/L in true vs false positive cases (median angle 100.4° versus 69.55°, p <.000; median W/L 0.53 vs 0.45, p = .001), no difference for T/C (3.77 vs 3.48, p = .8). The area under the curve for angle was 0.98 (CI 0.94‐1.00), with a diagnostic cut‐off of 84.7° (PPV of 100%, NPV of 66.7%). Median Pirani score, available for 33 neonates (73.3%) was 3 (IQR 3‐4): only angle correlated with Pirani score (Spearman coefficient 0.36, p = .04)

Conclusion

Measuring the angle between the foot and lower leg can reduce the FP rate of prenatal congenital clubfoot diagnosis and better predict the need for postnatal treatment.
Fortnightly surveillance of monochorionic diamniotic twins for twin to twin transfusion syndrome: Compliance and effectiveness
Authors: Brock Clifton O. , Sibai Baha M. , Soto Eleazar E. , Moise Kenneth J. , Johnson Anthony , Blackwell Sean C. , Hernandez Andrade Edgar A. , Papanna Ramesha
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To determine the compliance and effectiveness of fortnightly ultrasound surveillance for detection of twin‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin gestations.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of ultrasound surveillance of MCDA twins for TTTS. Our surveillance protocol requires fortnightly ultrasounds starting at 16 weeks of gestational age (GA) continuing until delivery. Compliance was assessed by determining the GA of surveillance initiation and time between ultrasounds. GA and Quintero Stage at diagnosis were evaluated to determine whether TTTS was detected prior to advanced disease (Quintero Stage III +) or fetal demise.

Results

Of 442 women, 264 (59.7%) initiated surveillance after 16 weeks; follow‐up ultrasounds were late in 17.4% of cases. TTTS was diagnosed in 43 (9.7%) women at a median GA of 19.7 [17.4, 23.9] weeks. Of 25/43 (58.1%) cases diagnosed during protocol compliance, 12 had advanced disease and two had fetal demise. A similar proportion of diagnoses (n = 18), made while non‐compliant, exhibited advanced disease (11/18, 61.1%, P = .40). Thirteen diagnoses occurred during periods of increased ultrasound frequency due to abnormalities (ie, fluid/estimated fetal weight discrepancies or Doppler abnormalities).

Conclusions

In this population, fortnightly ultrasound compliance was suboptimal. Advanced disease and fetal demise occurred during protocol compliance.
Battle for Britain: Analyzing Events as Drivers of Political Tribalism in Twitter Discussions of Brexit
Authors: North Samantha , Piwek Lukasz , Joinson Adam
Published: August 2020

In the aftermath of the 2016 referendum on European Union (EU) membership, Britain was divided into identity groups (or tribes) of Leavers and Remainers. In this study, we investigate how Brexit tribalism—in the form of outgroup derogation—has unfolded over time on Twitter. We analyze data from 32 months of discussions (n = 9,027,822), using identity‐based keywords as proxies for tribalism. First, we characterize the nature of the discussion by comparing language use patterns between tweets containing Brexiteer/Remainer and Brextremist/Remoaner keywords. We find that Brextremist/Remoaner are more commonly used in a derogatory way. We also find that all four group identity keywords are used more frequently over time, suggesting an increase in tribal interactions. Finally, we find evidence of a relationship between real‐life Brexit events and spikes in tribal responses online. These findings provide compelling insights into the extent of tribal political behavior on social media. They are significant for furthering our understanding of tribalism as a central feature of information warfare campaigns that aim to divide societies.
Chain‐growth polycondensation via the substituent effect: Investigation of the monomer structure on synthesis of poly(N‐octyl‐benzamide)
Authors: Prehn Frederick C. , Etz Brian D. , Reese Caleb J. , Vyas Shubham , Boyes Stephen G.
Published: August 2020

A systematic study of the behavior of different leaving groups on a variety of ester‐based monomers was performed for the chain‐growth polycondensation synthesis of poly(N‐octyl benzamide). Linear and branched alkane esters were compared with their phenyl analogs using both computational and experimental methods. Kinetic experiments along with qualitative solubility observations were used, with the aid of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and gel‐permeation chromatography, to determine progress of the reaction, molecular weights, and molecular weight distributions. It was found that the reactivity of the monomer's ester group depends more on the stability of the leaving alkoxide than the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon, which contradicts previous literature. The order of reactivity increases for the alkyl esters with decreasing steric hindrance and decreasing pKa of the substituent. For the phenyl ester derivatives, the more electron withdrawing character of a para substituent increases the reactivity of the ester group, due to the higher resonance stabilization of the leaving phenoxide anion, not due to an increase in the electrophilicity of the carbonyl carbon.
Optimizing the management of castration‐resistant prostate cancer patients: A practical guide for clinicians
Authors: Shore Neal D. , Drake Charles G. , Lin Daniel W. , Ryan Charles J. , Stratton Kelly L. , Dunshee Curtis , Karsh Lawrence I. , Kaul Sanjeev , Kernen Ken , Pieczonka Christopher , Sieber Paul , Stewart Christopher , Williams Michael , Concepcion Raoul S.
Published: August 2020

Background

Advanced prostate cancer (PC) patients, especially those with metastatic prostate cancer (mPC), often require complex management pathways. Despite the publication of clinical practice guidelines by leading urological and oncological organizations that provide a substantial and comprehensive framework, there are numerous clinical scenarios that are not always addressed, especially as new treatments become available, new imaging modalities are developed, and advances in genetic testing continue.

Methods

A 14‐member expert review panel comprised of urologists and medical oncologists were chosen to provide guidance on addressing specific topics and issues regarding metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) patients. Panel members were chosen based upon their experience and expertise in the management of PC patients. Four academic members (two urologists and two medical oncologists) of the panel served as group leaders; the remaining eight panel members were from Large Urology Group Practice Association (LUGPA) practices with proven experience in leading their advanced PC clinics. The panel members were assigned to four separate working groups, each assigned a specific mCRPC topic to review and discuss with the entire panel.

Results

This article describes the practical recommendations of an expert panel on the management of mCRPC patients. The target reading audience for this publication is all providers (urologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, or advanced practice providers) who evaluate and manage advanced PC patients, regardless of their practice setting.

Conclusion

The panel has provided recommendations for managing mCRPC with regard to specific issues: (a) biomarker monitoring and the role of genetic and molecular testing; (b) rationale, current strategies, and optimal sequencing of the various approved therapies, including hormonal therapy, cytotoxic chemotherapy, radiopharmaceuticals and immunotherapy; (c) adverse event management and monitoring; and (d) imaging advanced PC patients. These recommendations seek to complement national guidelines, not replace them, and a discussion of where the panel agreed or disagreed with national guidelines is included.
Spin Pumping and Magnetic Anisotropy in La2/3Sr1/3MnO3/Pt Systems
Authors: Benguettat-EL Mokhtari Ibtissem , Roussigné Yves , Petrisor Traian , Zighem Fatih , Kail Fatiha , Chahed Larbi , Pierron Victor , Méchin Laurence , Gabor Mihai , Belmeguenai Mohamed
Published: August 2020

La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 (LSMO) thin films of various thicknesses (6, 8, 10, 20, and 30 nm), capped by 7 nm‐thick Pt layer, are grown by pulsed laser deposition on SrTiO3 (001) substrates. X‐ray diffraction revealed that LSMO films are (001) oriented. Vibrating sample magnetometer is used to determine the magnetization at saturation and the magnetic dead layer thickness. This latter is around 3.4 nm, significantly thicker compared with the one induced at interfaces of Pt with ferromagnetic transition metals. Microstrip line ferromagnetic resonance (MS‐FMR) is used to extract the gyromagnetic ratio, which is found to increase with LSMO thickness. MS‐FMR revealed that the in‐plane magnetic anisotropy is dominated by a uniaxial contribution for the Pt capped film, whereas the noncapped 10 nm‐thick LSMO layer shows a fourfold anisotropy. Furthermore, the thickness dependence of the effective magnetization reveals the existence of a second‐order perpendicular anisotropy term, which is thickness‐dependent, and of a weak uniaxial interface anisotropy. The Gilbert damping coefficient is found to vary linearly with the inverse of the effective LSMO thickness due to spin pumping leading to relatively low spin mixing conductance of LSMO/Pt interface.
Poncirin downregulates ATP‐binding cassette transporters to enhance cisplatin sensitivity in cisplatin‐resistant osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Zhao Liujing , Zhang Weiwei , Zhang Fang
Published: August 2020

Poncirin, a flavanone glycoside with bitter taste extracted from dried immature fruit of Poncirus trifoliate, exhibits multiple biological activities including anti‐tumor activity. Our study aimed to determine the effect and potential mechanism of poncirin on cisplatin resistance in osteosarcoma (OS) cells. CCK‐8, flow cytometry analysis, and caspase‐3/7 activity assays were used to evaluate cisplatin sensitivity. The expression changes of multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1), multidrug resistance‐associated protein (MRP1), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), and phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway‐related proteins were detected by RT‐qPCR or western blot analyses. Results showed that poncirin exposure enhanced cisplatin sensitivity, promoted apoptosis, and increased caspase‐3/7 activity in cisplatin‐resistant OS cells. Poncirin decreased the expression levels of MDR1, MRP1, and BCRP, and inhibited the PI3K/Akt signaling in OS cells. Rescue experiments suggested that activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling by 740Y‐P abolished poncirin‐induced expression reduction of MDR1, MRP1, and BCRP, and attenuated the facilitative effects of poncirin on cisplatin sensitivity and apoptosis in cisplatin‐resistant OS cells. In summary, poncirin suppressed cisplatin resistance in cisplatin‐resistant OS cells by downregulating the expression of MDR1, MRP1, and BCRP through inhibiting the PI3K/Akt pathway.
An enhanced approach for the progressive mean control charts: A discussion and comparative analysis
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Abid Muhammad , Abbas Zameer , Nazir Hafiz Zafar
Published: August 2020

Recently, a new double progressive mean (DPM) control chart has been proposed in the literature of statistical process control. In the said proposal, an important term is missing in the variance expression of the DPM statistic that affects the detection ability of the proposed chart. In this study, we have derived and provided the correct version of the said variance along with its corresponding control limits. The run length profiles of the DPM chart are investigated, and the results are updated for the new version of the limits. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis between DPM and progressive mean charts based on the different choices of the design parameter is also included in this study. It is revealed that the revised version offers even more efficient outcomes than the previous ones. In addition, a real dataset application is also presented for practical considerations of the refined version.
Adaptive output‐feedback control for damped wave equations with unknown damping coefficient and corrupted boundary measurement
Authors: Xu Zaihua , Liu Yungang , Li Fengzhong , Li Jian
Published: August 2020

Adaptive output‐feedback control is investigated for a class of uncertain damped wave equations. The remarkable features of the system in question are as follows: (i) Unknown damping is allowed at the boundary; (ii) The boundary measurement is corrupted by an unknown harmonic disturbance. These features make the control problem essentially different from those in the related literature. To solve the problem, a novel adaptive output‐feedback control scheme is established for the system. Specifically, an ingenious observer is first introduced to reconstruct the unmeasured system state in the space domain. Based on this, a certain compensation mechanism is designed for the unknown damping coefficient and output disturbance by adaptive technique based on projection operator. Then, an output‐feedback controller is successfully designed by the backstepping method for ODEs, which guarantees that all states of the resulting closed‐loop system are bounded, and the original system state ultimately converges to an arbitrarily prescribed small neighborhood of the origin. Finally, a simulation example is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Active learning for efficiently training emulators of computationally expensive mathematical models
Authors: Ellis Alexandra G. , Iskandar Rowan , Schmid Christopher H. , Wong John B. , Trikalinos Thomas A.
Published: August 2020

An emulator is a fast‐to‐evaluate statistical approximation of a detailed mathematical model (simulator). When used in lieu of simulators, emulators can expedite tasks that require many repeated evaluations, such as sensitivity analyses, policy optimization, model calibration, and value‐of‐information analyses. Emulators are developed using the output of simulators at specific input values (design points). Developing an emulator that closely approximates the simulator can require many design points, which becomes computationally expensive. We describe a self‐terminating active learning algorithm to efficiently develop emulators tailored to a specific emulation task, and compare it with algorithms that optimize geometric criteria (random latin hypercube sampling and maximum projection designs) and other active learning algorithms (treed Gaussian Processes that optimize typical active learning criteria). We compared the algorithms' root mean square error (RMSE) and maximum absolute deviation from the simulator (MAX) for seven benchmark functions and in a prostate cancer screening model. In the empirical analyses, in simulators with greatly varying smoothness over the input domain, active learning algorithms resulted in emulators with smaller RMSE and MAX for the same number of design points. In all other cases, all algorithms performed comparably. The proposed algorithm attained satisfactory performance in all analyses, had smaller variability than the treed Gaussian Processes, and, on average, had similar or better performance as the treed Gaussian Processes in six out of seven benchmark functions and in the prostate cancer model.
Lateral force distribution in the inelastic state for seismic design of high‐strength steel framed‐tube structures with shear links
Authors: Zhang Hao , Lian Ming , Su Mingzhou , Cheng Qianqian
Published: August 2020

High‐strength steel framed‐tube structures with shear links (HSSFT‐SLs) exhibit better performance under seismic loading than conventional steel framed‐tube structures. In this study, the optimum lateral force distribution considering the higher mode effects in an inelastic state for the seismic design of HSSFT‐SLs was investigated to overcome the shortcomings of existing lateral force distribution patterns. A series of example structures with expected yield mechanisms were designed, and their finite element (FE) models were developed by using OpenSees program. The modeling approach was verified using experimental data. The influence of several important parameters on the lateral force distribution in the inelastic state was investigated. An optimum lateral force distribution in inelastic state was obtained by using the relative distribution of the maximum story shears of the FE models obtained from nonlinear time history analyses. The accuracy and effectiveness of the proposed lateral force distribution were assessed through comparison with code‐specified lateral load patterns. The suggested lateral force distribution exhibits more rational and higher precision than other patterns in the inelastic state and may provide a useful reference for further research regarding the design of HSSFT‐SL systems.
Background Harmonic Probabilistic Model for Harmonic Responsibility Assessment Based on Nonparametric Methods
Authors: Ding Tong , Chen Hongkun , Chen Lei
Published: August 2020

As the increasing integration of inverter‐interfaced renewable energy generators intensifies the volatility and uncertainty of background harmonics in the utility system, it is crucial to construct a precise background harmonic model and determine the harmonic responsibility to promote harmonic management. This paper proposes a probabilistic model of background harmonics for harmonic responsibility assessment based on nonparametric methods. First, the amplitude data of background harmonic voltage are segmented in chronological order considering the stochastic features. Then, the nonparametric Bootstrap resampling is introduced to handle the case of insufficient samples, and the Kernel density estimation with optimal bandwidth is used to depict the probability distribution characteristics in each time interval. For the sake of identifying the piecewise probability density function with optimal fitting effect, the goodness‐of‐fit test is subsequently applied. Finally, based on the proposed background harmonic probabilistic model, the harmonic responsibility assessment is conducted without the involvement of phase angle information. The detailed performance verification of the proposed model is carried out in light of the field‐measured data. The results validate that the proposed model outperforms the conventional parametric models in handling insufficient data and fitting accuracy and is helpful to achieve the effective quantification of the overall harmonic responsibility within a period of time. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Pathology of the outbreak of subgenotype 2.5 classical swine fever virus in northern Vietnam
Authors: Izzati Uda Zahli , Hoa Nguyen Thi , Lan Nguyen Thi , Diep Nguyen Van , Fuke Naoyuki , Hirai Takuya , Yamaguchi Ryoji
Published: August 2020

Classical swine fever (CSF) is an endemic disease in southeastern Asia and is one of the most important swine diseases in Vietnam. This study was conducted to characterize the pathology of natural cases of CSF in northern Vietnam in 2018 and their genetic prevalence. A total of 10 representative pigs were collected from four provinces (Hung Yen, Ha Noi, Quang Ninh and Thai Binh) during five outbreaks and examined pathologically. The gross and histopathological findings showed the disease was expressed as the acute or the subacute to chronic form of CSF, depending on the age of the animals. The most consistently observed lesions associated with infection by the classical swine fever virus (CSFV) included lymphoid depletions in tonsils, lymph node and spleen; histiocytic hyperplasia in spleen; cerebral haemorrhage; perivascular cuffing in the brain; renal erythrodiapedesis; urothelial vacuolation and degeneration and interstitial pneumonia. The immunohistochemical findings showed a ubiquitous CSFV antigen mainly in the monocytes/macrophages and in the epithelial and endothelial cells in various organs. CSFV neurotropism was also found in the small neurons of the cerebrum and the ganglia of the myenteric plexus. Analysis of the full‐length envelope protein (E2) genome sequence showed that all strains were genetically clustered into subgenotype 2.5, sharing a nucleotide identity of 94.0%–100.00%. Based on the results of this study, the strain was categorized as a moderately virulent CSFV.
Thionylimido Complexes
Authors: McGeachie Liam J. R. , Carpenter‐Warren Cameron L. , Cordes David B. , Bühl Michael , Gray Steven J. , Hua Guoxiong , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Woollins J. Derek
Published: August 2020

An improved route to d‐block and main group NSO complexes is presented including the synthesis of the first antimony(V) complexes, (Ar3Sb(NSO)2), and copper examples [CuBipy(PPh3)NSO]. The structures of eight complexes are reported. The observed variation in M–N–S bond angles is due to the combination of orbital overlap (ligand‐to‐metal bonding) and the degree of ionicity of the bonding.
From exact results to gauge dynamics on ℝ3 × S1
Authors: Ardehali Arash Arabi , Cassia Luca , Lü Yongchao
Published: August 2020

Abstract

We revisit the vacuum structure of the

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 1 Intriligator-Seiberg-Shenker model on ℝ3
× S
1. Guided by the Cardy-like asymptotics of its Romelsberger index, and building on earlier semi-classical results by Poppitz and Ünsal, we argue that previously overlooked non-perturbative effects generate a Higgs-type potential on the classical Coulomb branch of the low-energy effective 3d

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 2 theory. In particular, on part of the Coulomb branch we encounter the first instance of a dynamically-generated quintic monopole superpotential.
Quality of care in surgical/interventional vascular medicine: what can routinely collected data from the insurance companies achieve?
Authors: Peters F. , Kreutzburg T. , Kuchenbecker J. , Marschall U. , Remmel M. , Dankhoff M. , Trute H.‑H. , Repgen T. , Debus E. S. , Behrendt C.-A.
Published: August 2020

The complexity and diversity of surgical/interventional vascular medicine necessitate innovative and pragmatic solutions for the valid measurement of the quality of care in the long term. The secondary utilization of routinely collected data from social insurance institutions has increasingly become the focus of interdisciplinary medicine over the years. Owing to their longitudinal linkage and pan-sector generation, routinely collected data make it possible to answer important questions and can complement quality development projects with primary registry data. Various guidelines exist for their usage, linkage, and reporting. Studies have shown good validity, especially for endpoints with major clinical relevance. The numerous advantages of routinely collected data face several challenges that require thorough plausibility and validity procedures and distinctive methodological expertise. This review presents a discussion of these advantages and challenges and provides recommendations for starting to use this increasingly important source of data.
Evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging artifacts caused by fixed orthodontic CAD/CAM retainers—an in vitro study
Authors: Roser Christoph , Hilgenfeld Tim , Sen Sinan , Badrow Tobias , Zingler Sebastian , Heiland Sabine , Bendszus Martin , Lux Christopher J. , Juerchott Alexander
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) image quality can be severely impaired by artifacts caused by fixed orthodontic retainers. In clinical practice, there is a trend towards using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) retainers. This study aimed to quantify MRI artifacts produced by these novel CAD/CAM retainers.

Material and methods

Three CAD/CAM retainers and a stainless-steel retainer (“Twistflex”; clinical reference standard) were scanned in vitro at 3-T MRI using a high-resolution 3D sequence. The artifact diameters and three-dimensional artifact volumes (AV) were determined for all mandibular (AVmand) and maxillary (AVmax) retainers. Moreover, the corresponding ratio of artifact volume to retainer volume (AV/RVmand, AV/RVmax) was calculated.

Results

Twistflex caused large artifact volumes (AVmand: 13530 mm3; AVmax: 15642 mm3; AV/RVmand: 2602; AV/RVmax: 2235). By contrast, artifact volumes for CAD/CAM retainers were substantially smaller: whereas artifact volumes for cobalt–chromium retainers were moderate (381 mm3; 394 mm3; 39; 31), grade-5 titanium (110 mm3; 126 mm3; 12; 12) and nickel–titanium (54 mm3; 78 mm3; 12; 14) both produced very small artifact volumes.

Conclusion

All CAD/CAM retainers caused substantially smaller volumes of MRI artifacts compared to Twistflex. Grade-5 titanium and nickel–titanium CAD/CAM retainers showed the smallest artifact volumes.

Clinical relevance

CAD/CAM retainers made from titanium or nickel–titanium may not relevantly impair image quality in head/neck and dental MRI. Artifacts caused by cobalt–chromium CAD/CAM retainers may mask nearby dental/periodontal structures. In contrast, the large artifacts caused by Twistflex are likely to severely impair diagnosis of oral and adjacent pathologies.
Prospective clinical evaluation of 765 partial glass-ceramic posterior restorations luted using photo-polymerized resin composite in conjunction with immediate dentin sealing
Authors: Van den Breemer Carline R. G , Buijs Gerrit J. , Cune Marco S. , Özcan Mutlu , Kerdijk Wouter , Van der Made Stephan , Gresnigt Marco M. M.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

To evaluate the clinical performance of partial glass-ceramic (IPS e.max Press) posterior restorations.

Materials and methods

A total of 765 restorations in 158 patients were placed between 2008 and 2018 and evaluated in a prospective study during regular dental care visits between 2015 and 2018. The restorations were luted with a conventional photo-polymerized resin composite (HFO) in conjunction with an Immediate Dentin Sealing procedure (IDS). Intra-oral photographs and radiographs were made and evaluated using USPHS criteria.

Results

The mean observation time was 53.3 months (range 3–113 months). Three absolute failures occurred (tooth fractures,n = 2; apical re-infection,n = 1) all leading to the loss of the restored tooth. Repairable and salvageable failures occurred in 9 teeth (endodontic complications,n = 7; secondary caries,n = 1; debonding,n = 1). The survival and success rates according to Kaplan-Meier after 5 years cumulated to 99.6% and 98.6%, respectively. Location (premolar/molar and mandibula/maxilla), pre-restorative endodontic status (vital/devitalised) and extension of the indirect ceramic restoration (number of sides and cusps involved) did not significantly affect the cumulative success rate (log rank test,p > 0.05). The condition of the vast majority of the restorations remained unaffected for 5 years.

Conclusions

Partial glass-ceramic posterior restorations (pressed lithium disilicate (IPS e.max press, Ivoclar Vivadent) luted by means of a conventional photo-polymerized resin composite in conjunction with the use of an IDS procedure have an excellent medium-term prognosis.

Clinical relevance

Partial glass-ceramic posterior restorations can be considered as a highly reliable treatment option. Location and extension of the restoration and pre-restorative endodontic status do not affect success rate.
Shallow groundwater flow and inverted fresh/saline-water interface in a hypersaline endorheic basin (Great Basin, USA)
Authors: Mayo Alan L. , Tingey David G. , Rey Kevin A. , Winkel Tony D. , McBride John H. , Nelson Stephen T. , Carling Gregory T. , Bruthans Jiri , Petersen Erik C.
Published: August 2020

Pilot Valley is an 828-km2arid-region endorheic basin in western USA. Bounding mountain ranges rise as much as 1,900 m above the nearly flat 379-km2playa floor. Up to 3.8 m of Pleistocene Lake Bonneville mud and thin oolitic sand layers form the surface layer of the basin floor. Groundwater conditions were evaluated using data from shallow monitoring wells and borings, springs, infiltrometer measurements, slug and dilution tests, geophysical transects, and precision elevation surveys. Alluvial fan groundwater discharges at fan/playa interface springs and underflows to the shallow basin sediments along the western side of the basin; the groundwater only underflows along the eastern side. Precision surveying established a Lake Bonneville shore-line break in slope as the cause of the spring discharges. Tectonic tilting causes groundwater to flow from east to west and to the topographic low. Monthly measured and pressure transducer data established seasonal pressure responses and upward groundwater gradients. All basin groundwater is lost to evapotranspiration at the topographic low, where a thin salt pan has developed. Groundwater evolves from fresh to hypersaline near the alluvial fan/playa interface where there is an inverted salinity gradient and a groundwater pressure ridge. The pressure ridge and inverted salinity interface are due to: (1) osmotic pressure established between the oolitic sand of high hydraulic conductivity and the overlying low-hydraulic-conductivity lake mud at the fan/playa interface, and (2) the collision between fresh groundwater flow driven by a steep hydraulic head and hypersaline groundwater flow driven by a nearly flat hydraulic head.
Preclinical Performance Evaluation of a Robotic Endoscope for Non-Contact Laser Surgery
Authors: Kundrat D. , Graesslin R. , Schoob A. , Friedrich D. T. , Scheithauer M. O. , Hoffmann T. K. , Ortmaier T. , Kahrs L. A. , Schuler P. J.
Published: August 2020

Despite great efforts, transoral robotic laser surgery has not been established clinically. Patient benefits are yet to be proven to accept shortcomings of robotic systems. In particular, laryngeal reachability and transition from microscope to accurate endoscopic laser ablation have not been achieved. We have addressed those challenges with a highly integrated robotic endoscope for non-contact endolaryngeal laser surgery. The current performance status has been assessed in multi-level user studies. In addition, the system was deployed to anex vivoporcine larynx. The robotic design comprises an extensible continuum manipulator with multifunctional tip. The latter features laser optics, stereo vision, and illumination. Vision-based performance assessment is derived from depth estimation and scene tracking. Novices and experts (n = 20) conducted teleoperated delineation tasks to mimic laser ablation of delicate anatomy. Delineation with motion-compensated and raw endoscopic visualisation was carried out on planar and non-planar nominal patterns. Root mean square tracing errors of less than 0.75 mm were feasible with task completion times below 45 s. Relevant anatomy in the porcine larynx was exposed successfully. Accuracy and usability of the integrated platform bear potential for dexterous laser manipulation in clinical settings. Cadaver andin vivoanimal studies may translateex vivofindings.