bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PhISCS-BnB: A Fast Branch and Bound Algorithm for the Perfect Tumor Phylogeny Reconstruction Problem
Authors: Sadeqi Azer Erfan , Rashidi Mehrabadi Farid , Li Xuan Cindy , Malikić Salem , Schäffer Alejandro A. , Gertz E. Michael , Day Chi-Ping , Pérez-Guijarro Eva , Marie Kerrie , Lee Maxwell P. , Merlino Glenn , Ergun Funda , Sahinalp S. Cenk
Published: February 2020

Motivation

Recent advances in single cell sequencing (SCS) offer an unprecedented insight into tumor emergence and evolution. Principled approaches to tumor phylogeny reconstruction via SCS data are typically based on general computational methods for solving an integer linear program (ILP), or a constraint satisfaction program (CSP), which, although guaranteeing convergence to the most likely solution, are very slow. Others based on Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) or alternative heuristics not only offer no such guarantee, but also are not faster in practice. As a result, novel methods that can scale up to handle the size and noise characteristics of emerging SCS data are highly desirable to fully utilize this technology.

Results

We introduce PhISCS-BnB, a Branch and Bound algorithm to compute the most likely perfect phylogeny (PP) on an input genotype matrix extracted from a SCS data set. PhISCS-BnB not only offers an optimality guarantee, but is also 10 to 100 times faster than the best available methods on simulated tumor SCS data. We also applied PhISCS-BnB on a large melanoma data set derived from the sub-lineages of a cell line involving 24 clones with 3574 mutations, which returned the optimal tumor phylogeny in less than 2 hours. The resulting phylogeny also agrees with bulk exome sequencing data obtained fromin vivotumors growing out from the same cell line.

Availability

https://github.com/algo-cancer/PhISCS-BnB
The term structure of equity factor diversification
Authors: Fouquau Julien , Kharoubi Cecile
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Risk factor investing has grown in popularity in recent years and has become a cornerstone of investment portfolios. The goal of factor investing is to generate more returns in the long run. This paper aims to studies the term structure of equity factor. The authors consider the point of view of an American investor and use risk, diversification and performance measures.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors combine two methodologies as follows: wavelets and copulas. The authors use daily, weekly and monthly equity factor returns to calibrate wavelets and copulas. Copula functions are useful instruments to describe “joint” fluctuations in different markets, especially to capture nonlinearities, providing a reasonable alternative to the assumption of joint normality. To check robustness, the authors propose three different wavelet mother functions to decompose the data and three different time horizons and the authors add a complementary exercise based on performance and diversification measurement without wavelet transform.

Findings

The authors identify temporal horizons for which diversification benefits would be optimized with the decrease in the level of dependence or even the inversion of the dependence structure. Thus, investors seeking diversification with factor investing have to care about the considered horizon: size and book to market factors seem to provide better diversification in the short term. Momentum strategies seem to deliver better diversification in the long run. All the results are very consistent.

Originality/value

Very few papers have documented the diversification properties of the equity risk factors. While factors are built to capture systematic risk premia, their diversification properties are still poorly understood. It is necessary to take into account non-normality of risk factors and to study the diversification over different time horizons. The solution is to use wavelet methodology to decompose returns into temporal series of different maturities.
Does securitization escalate banks’ sensitivity to systemic risk?
Authors: Ivanov Katerina , Jiang Julia
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test empirically the impact of asset securitization and sale activities as well as the holdings of sub-prime related securitized products on the US bank holding companies’ (BHC) exposure to systemic risk.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a robust econometric method to estimate the conditional value-at-risk as a measure of BHCs' institutional sensitivity to market crushes. Using the data over the period of 2004-2016, the study also uses OLS with robust standard errors and panel estimation with random effects as two alternative estimation techniques to assess the impact of securitization activities on the sensitivity of BHCs to systemic risk.

Findings

Residential mortgage and other forms of securitization activities are positively related to an increase in the US BHCs' sensitivity to systemic distress. The significant cross effects of both securitized loans and holdings of securitized products play a crucial role in determining risks in financial sector.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the empirical literature on the effects of securitization on BHCs' risk exposures in several ways. First, the paper considers the complexity of the bank's risk profile; it focuses on BHCs' individual sensitivity to systemic distress and its dependence on the size of securitization and assets sold activities considering both supply and demand sides of securitization. Second, the time horizon under investigation sheds a light on the relationship between securitization and banks' risk exposures including the pre-crisis, crisis and post-crisis periods.
Presentation of a school of government model through a comparative study of selected schools
Authors: Abdolhosseinzadeh Mohammad , Abdolhamid Mahdi
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to promote governance quality by presenting a school of government model.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, seven schools were selected from among 25 outstanding existing schools of government by purposive sampling. Subsequently, these schools were carefully examined and categorized into primary and support processes through a comparative study and the categorical content analysis approach.

Findings

The resulting four primary processes of education, research and agenda-setting, discourse-making and networking, and training and cadre-building, and the five sub-systems of schools of government were extracted. The outputs of the school of government model were classified into the three categories of training cadres experienced in public policy and administration, discourse-making and influencing the environment and theorizing. Finally, the extracted categories were approved by the relevant experts through the fuzzy Delphi method.

Originality/value

This paper can contribute to the training of policymakers and policy researchers, as well as to the establishment, and more effective management, of schools of government.
TP53 mutations are associated with very complex karyotype and suggest poor prognosis in newly diagnosed myelodysplastic syndrome patients with monosomal karyotype
Authors: Ren Yanling , Wang Jinghan , Zhang Hua , Mei Chen , Ye Li , Luo Yingwan , Zhou Xinping , Zhu Shuanghong , Jiang Lingxu , Wang Lu , Jin Jie , Tong Hongyan
Published: February 2020

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical and molecular characteristics of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with monosomal karyotype (MK).

Methods

Eighty MDS patients with MK diagnosed between January 2010 and December 2018 were included in the retrospective study. Seventy‐three had complex karyotype (CK) and 46 had very CK (vCK, ≥ 5 abnormalities). Clinical information was collected, and a panel of 37 genes, on which mutations have been previously reported to be associated with MDS patients, was analyzed by next‐generation sequencing. Genetic and biological features and their association with survival were evaluated.

Results

Monosomy 5, 7, and 17 were the most frequent and mainly occurred in patients with vCK. While median overall survival (OS) for all patients was 12.8 months with 95% CI 9.1‐16.5, patients with vCK had shorter OS (8.4 months with 95% CI 3.9‐12.8) than those with non‐vCK (16.1 months with 95% CI 11.5‐20.8) (P = .02). At least one gene mutation was detected in 76 patients (95%), TP53 mutations were detected in 57 patients, and their median OS was significantly shorter than those without TP53 mutations (9.5 months with 95% CI 7.5‐11.5 vs 26.1 months with 95% CI 8.0‐44.2, P < .01). In 34 patients who received treatment with decitabine, 25 with TP53 mutations had higher overall response rate than those with wild‐type TP53 (60% vs 22.2%, P = .03). However, OS was still significantly shorter in those with TP53 mutations (10.1 vs 26.1 months, P = .03). Multivariate analysis confirmed that TP53 mutations was an independent poor prognostic factor on OS.

Conclusions

CK and vCK overlap in most of the MDS patients with MK. TP53 mutations occur more frequently in MDS patients with vCK, and both TP53 mutations and vCK are adverse prognostic factors.
The Impact of Specialized Environmental Courts on Corporate Risk‐Taking: Evidence from a Natural Experiment in China
Authors: Zhai Huayun , Chan Kam C. , Liu Qingzhuo , Liu Kemei
Published: February 2020

We examine the impact of having specialized environmental courts (SPECs) on corporate risk‐taking in China. SPECs allow judges and prosecutors to develop environmental expertise and are accountable for environmental violations. Thus, SPECs effectively enforce environmental regulations. Our findings suggest that when a firm is located in an SPEC jurisdiction, it engages in less corporate risk‐taking than an otherwise equivalent firm located in a non‐SPEC jurisdiction. The results are more pronounced for firms that receive large government environmental subsidies and that are state‐owned. Additional analysis suggests that firms make more environmental investments when located in an SPEC jurisdiction.
Incidence and risk factors of hyperemesis gravidarum: A national register‐based study in Finland, 2005‐2017
Authors: Nurmi Miina , Rautava Päivi , Gissler Mika , Vahlberg Tero , Polo‐Kantola Päivi
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Hyperemesis gravidarum is the most common reason for hospitalization in early pregnancy in pregnancies resulting in delivery. Several associative factors indicate that the etiology is likely to be multifactorial. To assess this, we used a unique procedure to compare hyperemetic pregnancies with non‐hyperemetic pregnancies both in different women and in the same women's different pregnancies.

Material and methods

Data about all pregnancies resulting in delivery in Finland in 2005‐2017 were retrieved from healthcare registers. Women who had a diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum in any pregnancy in the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register were chosen as cases (n = 9315) and other women (n = 428 150) as the reference group. The incidence of hyperemesis gravidarum was calculated and associations between hyperemesis and maternal, environmental and pregnancy‐related factors were analyzed in a novel setting by comparing case women's pregnancies diagnosed with hyperemesis to (1) reference group women's pregnancies and (2) case women's non‐hyperemetic pregnancies.

Results

Of the 437 465 women who had at least one pregnancy resulting in delivery during the study period, 9315 women had at least one hyperemetic pregnancy. The total number of pregnancies resulting in delivery was 741 387 and 9549 of those were diagnosed with hyperemesis gravidarum; thus the incidence of hyperemesis gravidarum was 1.3%. In comparison (1), case women's hyperemetic pregnancies vs reference group's pregnancies, younger maternal age, higher gravidity, underweight and overweight were associated with increased risk of hyperemesis; in contrast, in comparison (2), case women's hyperemetic pregnancies vs their non‐hyperemetic pregnancies, higher age and obesity were associated with higher risk of hyperemesis, whereas the risk was lower as gravidity and parity increased. In both comparisons, smoking was associated with lower risk, whereas higher municipality population, assisted reproductive technology, multiple gestation and female sex of the fetus were associated with increased risk of hyperemesis.

Conclusions

Our novel study setting provided new insights about risk factors: hyperemetic pregnancies differ both from pregnancies of women who had never been diagnosed with hyperemesis and from hyperemetic women's non‐hyperemetic pregnancies. The incidence of hyperemesis gravidarum in Finland was comparable to that in other countries.
Pembrolizumab with R‐CHOP in previously untreated diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: potential for biomarker driven therapy
Authors: Smith Stephen D. , Till Brian G. , Shadman Mazyar S. , Lynch Ryan C. , Cowan Andrew J. , Wu Qian V. , Voutsinas Jenna , Rasmussen Heather A. , Blue Katherine , Ujjani Chaitra S. , Shustov Andrei , Cassaday Ryan D. , Fromm Jonathan R. , Gopal Ajay K.
Published: February 2020

Tumor programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is associated with inferior outcomes. The first‐line immunologically‐replete setting may be an opportune time for PD‐1 inhibition. We evaluated pembrolizumab in combination with R‐CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) in untreated patients with DLBCL. Eligible patients were age 18 or older, had adequate organ function, and had DLBCL requiring full‐course therapy. Patients received pembrolizumab 200 mg/cycle with R‐CHOP, primarily to assess toxicity. Response assessment utilized standard criteria, and PD‐L1 staining was performed at a validated central laboratory. Among 30 patients, toxicity was comparable to standard R‐CHOP but with two grade ≥3 immune related adverse events (rash, pneumonitis). The overall and complete response rate was 90% and 77%. With 25·5 months of median follow‐up, 2‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) is 83%. PD‐L1 expression was associated with non‐GCB subtype, and improved PFS and survival. Pembrolizumab can safely be added to R‐CHOP, and is associated with a high CR rate and 2‐year PFS. Improved PFS with PR‐CHOP in PD‐L1 expressing tumors contradicts historical data in R‐CHOP treated patients, supporting evaluation of PD‐L1 as a biomarker to identify DLBCL patients who may benefit from this first‐line strategy.
High concentration of the plasma microparticles for venous thromboembolism associated with lung cancer
Authors: Wang Meiru , Huang Xiaoxi , Zhu Min , Zhang Shu , Zhang Yuhui
Published: February 2020

Background

Limited biomarkers are used for predicting risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) associated with cancer. Circulating microparticles (MPs), especially tissue factor‐ positive microparticles (TF + MPs), play an important role in the development of cancer‐associated VTE. This study investigated the predictive value of plasma MPs and TF + MPs for VTE in lung cancer.

Methods

A case‐control study was performed using the Beijing Chao‐Yang Hospital Lung Cancer Registry. Cases had VTE occurring 3 months before or after a diagnosis of lung cancer. Controls were patients with lung cancer without VTE matched for age, histology and stage. The proportion of MPs and TF + MPs was evaluated by light‐scatter‐based flow cytometry.

Results

Between January 2012 and December 2015, 30 cases with VTE and 60 controls without VTE were included. The proportion of MPs and TF + MPs was significantly more elevated in patients with VTE than in those without VTE (P < 0.05 for both). By multivariate logistic regression analysis, MPs (OR 1.153; 95% CI 1.068‐1.245; P < 0.001) and adenocarcinoma (OR 3.223; 95% CI 1.062‐9.782; P = 0.039) were significantly associated with VTE. The sensitivity of the proportion of MPs in diagnosing VTE was 93.3%, and the specificity was 70.0%. The sensitivity of the proportion of TF + MPs in diagnosing VTE was 66.7%, and the specificity was 88.3%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the diagnostic of the proportion of MPs and TF + MPs values were 0.836 (95% CI 0.750‐0.922, P < 0.001) and 0.828 (95% CI 0.736‐0.920, P < 0.001) respectively.

Conclusion

The elevated proportion of MPs and TF + MPs might help predict VTE associated with lung cancer.
Peers matter: The moderating role of social influence on information security policy compliance
Authors: Yazdanmehr Adel , Wang Jingguo , Yang Zhiyong
Published: February 2020

Information security in an organization largely depends on employee compliance with information security policy (ISP). Previous studies have mainly explored the effects of command‐and‐control and self‐regulatory approaches on employee ISP compliance. However, how social influence at both individual and organizational levels impacts the effectiveness of these two approaches has not been adequately explored. This study proposes a social contingency model in which a rules‐oriented ethical climate (employee perception of a rules‐adherence environment) at the organizational level and susceptibility to interpersonal influence (employees observing common practices via peer interactions) at the individual level interact with both command‐and‐control and self‐regulatory approaches to affect ISP compliance. Using employee survey data, we found that these two social influence factors weaken the effects of both command‐and‐control and self‐regulatory approaches on ISP compliance. Theoretical and practical implications are also discussed.
Efficacy and safety of TNF blockers and of ustekinumab in palmoplantar pustulosis and in acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau
Authors: Husson B. , Barbe C. , Hegazy S. , Seneschal J. , Aubin F. , Mahé E. , Jullien D. , Sbidian E. , D'Incan M. , Conrad C. , Brenaut E. , Girard C. , Richard M.A. , Bachelez H. , Viguier M. ,   For the « Groupe de Recherche sur le Psoriasis » de la Société Française de Dermatologie
Published: February 2020

Background

Palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) and acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH) are rare variants of psoriasis. Knowledge of the efficacy of biologics is scarce.

Objectives

To evaluate the real‐life efficacy of tumour necrosis factor blockers and ustekinumab in PPP and in ACH.

Methods

A multicentre retrospective descriptive study was conducted in 19 dermatology departments, including all patients with PPP or ACH seen from 2014 to 2016 who received one of the studied biologics. The data were collected by a standardized document. Factors associated with complete clearance (CC) were analysed by multivariate analysis, estimating odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among 92 patients included, 50 received adalimumab, 44 ustekinumab, 36 etanercept and 31 infliximab. Improvement and CC were observed in 83.9% and 20.0% patients receiving infliximab, 75.0% and 38.6% ustekinumab, 57.1% and 20.0% etanercept and 60.4% and 29.2% adalimumab. We found no significant difference in CC rates or duration of treatment among the biological treatments (P = 0.18 and P = 0.10, respectively). On multivariate analysis, CC with etanercept was associated with the ACH form and not smoking [OR = 9.5 (95% CI 1.1–82.7), P = 0.04 and 0.1 (0.01–0.9), P = 0.04]; with ustekinumab, male sex and absence of obesity [6.0 (1.3–28.6), P = 0.02 and 4.7 (1.0–22.7), P = 0.05]; with adalimumab, the ACH form [11.9 (2.7–52.3), P = 0.001]; and with infliximab, obesity [5.6 (1.1–29.4), P = 0.04].

Conclusions

We found no difference in efficacy between TNF blockers and ustekinumab and among the three different TNF blockers in real life for PPP or ACH, which reveals the heterogeneity of clinical response to biologics in pustular psoriasis as compared with plaque psoriasis.
Incompletely excised lentigo maligna melanoma is associated with unpredictable residual disease: clinical features and the emerging role of reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Navarrete‐Dechent C. , Aleissa S. , Cordova M. , Liopyris K. , Lee E.H. , Rossi A.M. , Hollman T. , Pulitzer M. , Lezcano C. , Busam K.J. , Marghoob A.A. , Chen C.‐C.J. , Nehal K.S.
Published: February 2020

Background

Lentigo maligna/lentigo maligna melanoma (LM/LMM) poses a treatment and surgical challenge given unpredictable subclinical extension resulting in incomplete excision.

Objectives

To describe the demographic, clinical and pathologic characteristics of incompletely excised LM/LMM. To evaluate the potential role of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM).

Patients and methods

A retrospective review of a melanoma database at a tertiary cancer centre for patients referred with ‘incompletely excised LM/LMM’ or ‘incompletely excised melanoma’ between October 2006 and July 2017. We recorded clinical and pathological data and surgical margins needed to clear the residual LM/LMM. The second part consisted of a prospective cohort of patients in which RCM was performed when presenting with incompletely excised LM/LMM.

Results

We included a total of 67 patients (retrospective + prospective cohort); mean age was 64.9 (standard deviation: 11.3) years and 52.2% were males. For the retrospective cohort (n = 53), the mean scar size was 3.4 cm. The average initial margins excised prior to presentation were 4.8 mm (range 3–7 mm). The average additional margin needed to clear the residual, incompletely excised LM/LMM was 7.8 mm. For the prospective cohort (n = 14), there were no differences in age, gender or size when compared to the retrospective cohort. RCM had a diagnostic accuracy of 78.6%, a sensitivity of 90.9%, a specificity of 33.3% and a positive predictive value of 83.3% for the detection of incompletely excised LM/LMM.

Conclusions

Incompletely excised LM/LMM is a poorly characterized clinical–pathological scenario that may require considerable extra margins for microscopic clearance. RCM may emerge as a valuable tool for the evaluation of patients with incompletely excised LM/LMM.
Effectiveness of cultural competence educational interventions on health professionals and patient outcomes: A systematic review
Authors: Chae Duckhee , Kim Jinhee , Kim Suhee , Lee Jina , Park Seojin
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This systematic review aimed to identify, appraise, and synthesize the best available evidence for the effectiveness of cultural competence educational interventions on health professional and patient outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of randomized and non‐randomized controlled trials. We searched seven electronic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and four Korean databases in June 2018. Studies that provided cultural competence educational interventions for health professionals and measured the impact on health professional outcomes, patient outcomes, or both were included. A narrative synthesis of study findings was performed.

Results

Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies used a randomized (n = 5) and a non‐randomized controlled trial (n = 6) design and were conducted in the USA (n = 7), South Korea (n = 3), and Sweden (n = 1). Cultural competence education was provided mostly to those of single occupations, nurses (n = 5) or physicians (n = 4). The delivery mode was classroom (n = 7), online (n = 3), or blended learning (n = 1), using mainly lectures, discussions, and case studies as teaching and learning methods. Education duration ranged from less than 1 hr to 3 days. Nine studies reported significantly improved health professional outcomes compared to the control group. Patient outcomes were reported in three studies. Only one study reported significant effect on patient satisfaction (d = 0.94) and trust (d = 0.71). There was no significant effect on patient physiological outcomes.

Conclusions

Cultural competence educational interventions had a positive effect on health professional outcomes. There is a considerable lack of research assessing patient outcomes, and there is limited evidence on whether interventions can change patient outcomes.
Gene family expansion of pinewood nematode to detoxify its host defence chemicals
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yu Haiying , Lv Yunxue , Bushley Kathryn E. , Wickham Jacob D. , Gao Shenghan , Hu Songnian , Zhao Lilin , Sun Jianghua
Published: February 2020

Gene gain/loss in the context of gene family dynamics plays an important role in evolutionary processes as organisms, particularly invasive species, adapt to new environments or niches. One notable example of this is the duplication of digestive proteases in some parasitic insects and helminths to meet nutritional requirements during animal parasitism. However, whether gene family expansion participates in the adaptation of a plant parasite nematode to its host remains unknown. Here, we compared the newly sequenced genomes of the pinewood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, with the genomes of free‐living, animal‐parasitic and plant‐parasitic nematodes. The results showed gene expansions occurring in 51 gene families in B. xylophilus, especially in xenobiotic detoxification pathways, including flavin monooxygenase (FMO), cytochrome P450 (CYP450), short chain dehydrogenase (SDR), alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST). Although a majority of these expansions probably resulted from gene duplications, nine ADH genes were potentially acquired by horizontal gene transfer (HGT) from fungi. From the transcriptomes of B. xylophilus treated with pine saplings and terpenes, candidate xenobiotic detoxification genes were identified. We propose that host defence chemicals led to gene family expansions of xenobiotic detoxification pathways in B. xylophilus facilitating its survival in pine resin ducts. This study contributes to a better understanding of how a parasitic nematode adapts to its host.
The feasibility of locating the affected bone of BRONJ with indocyanine green
Authors: Xia Cheng-wan , Pan Jiong‐ru , Fan Lei , Xiao Qi , Pu Yumei , Wang Yu‐Xin
Published: February 2020

The morbidity of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is also increasing with the use of bisphosphonates (BPs). Removing affected bone accurately is the most effective treatment. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of Indocyanine green (ICG)‐based Near‐Infrared fluorescence (NIF) imaging to remove BRONJ affected bone. Firstly, the rat model of BRONJ was constructed. And 5 mg/kg ICG were injected via tail vein, after 12 hr, the affected and healthy bone were dissected for ICG‐based NIF imaging and quantification detection of fluorescence intensity. Finally, all the bone samples were sent for further pathological examination. All the affected bone tissues in rat BRONJ model were fluorescence developed with ICG. And the fluorescence developed regions were further confirmed as affected bone tissues with pathological examination. The fluorescence intensity in affected bone tissues, adjacent, and opposite bone tissues was 1.93*107 ± 2.08*106, 1.19*106 ± 2.33*105, and 1.24*106 ± 1.57*105, respectively (p < .05). Conclusions It was feasible that the extent of affected bone in rat model with BRONJ could be estimated intraoperative via ICG‐based NIF imaging. This novel approach would become an auxiliary method in the treatment of patients with BRONJ in the future.
Numerical Simulation of Steam Flow Inside the Superheater Section of An Industrial Boiler Using a Real Gas Model
Authors: Kanungo Deepak Kumar , Sahu Kirti Chandra
Published: February 2020

Flow mal-distribution inside manifolds hampers the overall efficiency of processes in industries. In supercritical boilers, improper flow of steam inside the superheater (SH) section is a common cause of thermal accidents. However, carrying out a numerical simulation of supercritical fluids flowing inside manifolds is challenging as the ideal gas law does not describe the behavior of these fluids properly. In the present work, numerical simulation of the flow of supercritical steam inside the superheater section of an industrial boiler has been performed using a real gas model. The proposed real gas model is first validated with experimental data associated with the steam properties. Subsequently, the effect of different inlet and outlet arrangements on the flow mal-distribution of steam in the superheater section of the boiler is investigated numerically using the real gas model. A modified inlet and outlet arrangement of the superheater header is proposed which reduces the maximum value of flow mal-distribution in the header by 19.7% and total pressure drop in the domain by 17%. The effect of the Reynolds number on flow mal-distribution in the header arrangement is found to be negligible. The absolute value of the heat absorption by the superheater tubes increases with an increase in the value of the Reynolds number.
An Automated Kinematic Measurement System for Sagittal Plane Murine Head Impacts
Authors: McInnes Kurt A. , Abebe Zelalem A. , Whyte Thomas , Bashir Asma , Barron Carlos , Wellington Cheryl L. , Cripton Peter A.
Published: February 2020

Mild traumatic brain injuries are typically caused by nonpenetrating head impacts that accelerate the skull and result in deformation of the brain within the skull. The shear and compressive strains caused by these deformations damage neural and vascular structures and impair their function. Accurate head acceleration measurements are necessary to define the nature of the insult to the brain. A novel murine head tracking system was developed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of kinematic measurements obtained with high-speed videography. A three-dimensional (3D)-printed marker carrier was designed for rigid fixation to the upper jaw and incisors with an elastic strap around the snout. The system was evaluated by impacting cadaveric mice with the closed head impact model of engineered rotational acceleration (CHIMERA) system using an energy of 0.7 J (5.29 m/s). We compared the performance of the head-marker system to the previously used skin-tracking method and documented significant improvements in measurement repeatability (aggregate coefficient of variation (CV) within raters from 15.8 to 1.5 and between raters from 15.5 to 1.5), agreement (aggregate percentage error from 24.9 to 8.7), and temporal response (aggregate temporal curve agreement from 0.668 to 0.941). Additionally, the new system allows for automated software tracking, which dramatically decreases the analysis time required (74% reduction). This novel head tracking system for mice offers an efficient, reliable, and real-time method to measure head kinematics during high-speed impacts using CHIMERA or other rodent or small mammal head impact models.
Avoiding the Alveolar Nerve Via a Real-Time Impedance Analysis: A Novel Method to Improve Implant Surgery Safety
Authors: Schiffers Georg , Arnold Julian , Bartella Alexander , Mähönen Petri , Lethaus Bernd
Published: February 2020

Safe lower jaw implantations require precautions to avoid damaging the alveolar nerve. The prevailing methods are preoperative. In this study, we propose a novel approach to measure the distance between a pilot-drill and the alveolar nerve by employing high-frequency impedance measurements. The objective is to provide in vivo real-time information as an early warning of the proximity of the alveolar nerve. The method is examined and tested on animal samples. The impedance measurements were performed using a high-frequency network analyzer. Overall 40 pilot drillings were distributed over five sheep mandibles, with four on each side. Drillings were performed in three steps: inside the cortical layer, inside the spongiosa, and well inside the nerve canal. The inductance measurements were performed with a connected pilot drill, followed by an immediate 3D cone-beam computed tomography (CT) to measure the distance between the tip of the drill and the nerve canal. The measurements show that impedance information is a reliable indicator for proximity of the drill to the nerve. We observe a general trend of decreasing inductance as the drill approaches the nerve and find that at very high frequencies one can detect the closeness to the nerve from characteristic ratios of impedance at nearby frequencies. We report also that using phase information increases the reliability of this method. The findings provide a solid proof of concept for the proposed method. While the results are promising at this stage, the applicability for in vivo conditions requires further studies.
Weld Metal Chemistry of Mineral Waste Added SiO2–CaO–CaF2–TiO2 Electrode Coatings for Offshore Welds
Authors: Khan Waris Nawaz , Chhibber Rahul
Published: February 2020

Offshore structures in recent time are witnessing the increased application of dissimilar metal welds for enhanced structural integrity. Offshore structures are complex systems. Fabrication, maintenance, and repair of these structures require conventional and advanced welding technologies along with suitably chosen welding consumables. The present work aims at the design and development of shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) electrode coating using extreme vertices design methodology. This work also attempts to study weld metal chemistry along with microstructure and microhardness. Red ochre, a mineral waste from iron ore is added in the coating composition. Multi response optimization has been carried out to obtain optimum flux composition and to study the effect of individual constituents and their interactions on the weld chemistry and microhardness.
Rekindling the flame
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: February 2020

After decades of decline, the U.S. government's fusion lab seeks a rebirth.
Total synthesis of the complex taxane diterpene canataxpropellane
Authors: Schneider Fabian , Samarin Konstantin , Zanella Simone , Gaich Tanja
Published: February 2020

Synthesis of Taxol's complicated cousin

Propellane molecules contain three rings that all share a common edge, thereby collectively resembling a propeller. Canataxpropellane, a yew-derived natural product related to the cancer drug Taxol, is unusual in that it has two different propellane motifs in its backbone. Schneider
et al.
report a chemical synthesis of this intricate compound in under 30 steps. Key features of the route include a Diels-Alder reaction rendered asymmetric by introduction of a chiral silyl auxiliary, followed by a photochemical cycloaddition to establish the cyclobutane core.

Science
, this issue p.
676
Continued nursing education in low-income and middle-income countries: a narrative synthesis
Authors: Azad Amee , Min Jung-Gi , Syed Sharjeel , Anderson Sara
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Continued nursing education and development can reduce mortality and morbidity of patients and can alleviate the shortage of healthcare workers by training of nurses for high-demand skill sets. We reviewed patterns of educational interventions and strategies in initiating behaviour change, improving patient outcomes or knowledge for nurses in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Methods

The study searched the MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, CINAHL, Google Scholar and Web of Science databases. The study included interventional studies on continued nursing education from 2007 to 2017. Of the 6216 publications retrieved, 98 articles were included and analysed by three independent reviewers.

Results

Of the 98 studies that met inclusion criteria, five were randomised controlled trials, two were qualitative in design and the remaining 91 were quasi-experimental, before-and-after studies. Of these studies, the median sample size of participants was 64, and the majority were conducted in Asia (53.1%). During the 10-year study period, 20.4% was conducted in 2015, the highest proportion, with a general increase in number of studies over time from 2007 to 2017. Main themes that arose from the review included train-the-trainer models, low-dose/high-frequency models, use of multiple media for training, and emphasis on nurse empowerment, strong international partnerships, and the integration of cultural context. Overall, the studies were limited in quality and lacked rigorous study design.

Conclusion

Continued nursing education in LMICs is essential and effective in improving nurses’ knowledge base, and thus patient outcomes and quality of care. Long-term, randomised studies are needed to understand how training strategies compare in impact on nurses and patients.
$${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$, a new breaking of the HLS model and its phenomenology
Authors: Benayoun M. , DelBuono L. , Jegerlehner F.
Published: February 2020

Previous studies have shown that the Hidden Local Symmetry (HLS) Model, supplied with appropriate symmetry breaking mechanisms, provides an Effective Lagrangian (BHLS) able to encompass a large number of processes within a unified framework. This allowed one to design a global fit procedure which provides a fair simultaneous description of the $$e^+ e^-$$e+e- annihilation into six final states ($$\pi ^+\pi ^-$$π+π-, $$\pi ^0\gamma $$π0γ, $$\eta \gamma $$ηγ, $$\pi ^+\pi ^-\pi ^0$$π+π-π0, $$K^+K^-$$K+K-, $$K_L K_S$$KLKS), the dipion spectrum in the $$\tau $$τ decay and some more light meson decay partial widths. In this paper, additional breaking schemes are defined which improve the BHLS working and extend its scope so as to absorb spacelike processes within a new framework ($${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2). The phenomenology previously explored with BHLS is fully revisited in the $${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2 context with special emphasis on the $$\phi $$ϕ mass region using all available data samples. It is shown that $${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2 addresses perfectly the close spacelike region covered by NA7 and Fermilab data; it is also shown that the recent lattice QCD (LQCD) information on the pion form factor are accurately predicted by the $${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2 fit functions derived from fits to only annihilation data. The contribution to the muon anomalous magnetic moment $$a_\mu ^{\mathrm{th}}$$aμth of these annihilation channels over the range of validity of $${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2 (up to $$\simeq $$≃ 1.05 GeV) is updated within the new $${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2 framework and shown to strongly reduce the former BHLS systematics. The uncertainty on $$a_\mu ^{\mathrm{th}}(\sqrt{s}< 1.05 \, \hbox {GeV}$$aμth(s<1.05GeV) is much improved compared to standard approaches relying on direct integration methods of measured spectra. Using the $${\hbox {BHLS}}_2$$BHLS2 results, the leading-order HVP contribution to the muon anomalous moment is $$a_\mu ^{\mathrm{HVP-LO}}= 686.65 \pm 3.01 +(+1.16,-0.75)_{\mathrm{syst}}$$aμHVP-LO=686.65±3.01+(+1.16,-0.75)syst in units of $$10^{-10}$$10-10. Using a conservative estimate for the light-by-light contribution, our evaluation for the muon anomalous magnetic moment is $$a_\mu ^{\mathrm{th}}=\left[ 11\,659\,175.96 \pm 4.17 +(+1.16,-0.75)_{\mathrm{syst}}\right] \times 10^{-10}$$aμth=11659175.96±4.17+(+1.16,-0.75)syst×10-10. The relationship between the dispersive and LQCD approaches to the $$\rho ^0$$ρ0–$$\gamma $$γ mixing is also discussed which may amount to a shift of $$\delta a_\mu [\pi \pi ]_{\rho \gamma }=+(3.10\pm 0.31) \times 10^{-10}$$δaμ[ππ]ργ=+(3.10±0.31)×10-10 at LO+NLO, presently treated as additional systematics. Taking also this shift into account, the difference $$a_\mu ^{\mathrm{th}}-a_\mu ^{\mathrm{BNL}}$$aμth-aμBNL exhibits a significance not smaller than $$3.8 \sigma $$3.8σ.
Gushel–Mukai varieties: Moduli
Authors: Debarre Olivier , Kuznetsov Alexander
Published: February 2020

We describe the moduli stack of Gushel–Mukai varieties as a global quotient stack and its coarse moduli space as the corresponding GIT quotient. The construction is based on a comprehensive study of the relation between this stack and the stack of so-called Lagrangian data defined in our previous works; roughly speaking, we show that the former is a generalized root stack of the latter. As an application, we define the period map for Gushel–Mukai varieties and construct some complete nonisotrivial families of smooth Gushel–Mukai varieties. In an appendix, we describe a generalization of the root stack construction used in our approach to the moduli stack.
Effect of tip clearance on performance of contra-rotating axial flow water-jet propulsion pump
Authors: Han Wei , Liu Yao , Gong Chengyong , Su Youliang , Guo Pengyi , Su Min , Shi Fengxia , Wei Zhongzheng
Published: February 2020

Insufficient understanding of tip clearance on hydraulic and thrust performance is a major problem encountered in the design and application of the contra-rotating axial flow water-jet pumps. In order to investigate the effect of tip clearance on hydrodynamic and thrust characteristics of the pump, tip clearance coefficient [Formula: see text] is defined and scraping rate [Formula: see text] is introduced in this paper. Head coefficient and hydraulic efficiency are obtained with the numerical prediction and experiment as [Formula: see text], which are in good agreement with each other. With the increase of [Formula: see text], the saddle area of head coefficient slows down and the high efficiency zone narrows. Along the relative chord length of shroud of the rear rotor, the [Formula: see text] presents an opening down quadratic curve as [Formula: see text], and if [Formula: see text], it presents a “M” shape nearly. Comparing the two operating conditions of contra-rotating rotors and single rotor, the [Formula: see text] and wake effect of the rear rotor are enhanced and inhibited by the front rotor respectively for the interference between the two rotors, the thrust coefficient of the propulsion pump reaches the maximum when [Formula: see text].
The Fire from Within: Multiorgan Failure with Bimodal Rhabdomyolysis from Exertional Heat Stroke
Authors: Ubaldo Onion Gerald V. , Quiwa Khia , Rollan Rohana Elise , Tripon Edhel , Sebastian Elizabeth
Published: February 2020

Heat stroke (HS) is a condition characterized by a rise in core body temperature and central nervous system dysfunction. It is divided into two types: classical and exertional. Exertional heat stroke (EHS) is accompanied by organ failure. Liver injury, presenting only with a rise in liver enzymes, is common but in rare conditions, acute liver failure (ALF) may ensue, leading to a potentially lethal condition. Most cases of EHS-induced ALF are managed conservatively. However, liver transplantation is considered for cases refractory to supportive treatment. Identifying patients eligible for liver transplantation in the context of an EHS-induced ALF becomes a medical dilemma since the conventional prognostic criterion may be difficult to apply, and there is paucity of literature about these specific sets of individuals. Recently, extracorporeal liver support has been gaining popularity for patients with liver failure as a bridge to liver transplant. In this case report, we present a young Filipino athlete with symptoms and clinical course consistent with EHS that developed multiorgan failure, initially considered a candidate for liver transplant and total plasma exchange, but clinically improved with supportive management alone. This patient was also found to have bimodal rhabdomyolysis during the course of his hospital stay as manifested by the bimodal rise in his creatine kinase enzymes.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Control Based on Equivalence Principle and Its Application to Chaos Control in a Seven-Dimensional Power System
Authors: Wang Jiangbin , Liu Ling , Liu Chongxin , Li Xiaoteng
Published: February 2020

The main purpose of the paper is to control chaotic oscillation in a complex seven-dimensional power system model. Firstly, in view that there are many assumptions in the design process of existing adaptive controllers, an adaptive sliding mode control scheme is proposed for the controlled system based on equivalence principle by combining fixed-time control and adaptive control with sliding mode control. The prominent advantage of the proposed adaptive sliding mode control scheme lies in that its design process breaks through many existing assumption conditions. Then, chaotic oscillation behavior of a seven-dimensional power system is analyzed by using bifurcation and phase diagrams, and the proposed strategy is adopted to control chaotic oscillation in the power system. Finally, the effectiveness and robustness of the designed adaptive sliding mode chaos controllers are verified by simulation.
The Development and Psychometric Validation of a Comprehensive Measure Assessing Fear of Incompetence among Adults Who Have a Family Member with Dementia
Authors: Thompson Ashley E. , Miron Anca M. , Rogers Jonathan M. , Rice Rudy
Published: February 2020

Because the interpersonal skills of individuals with dementia often decline, family members may question their own ability to interact meaningfully. These family members may experience fear of incompetence (i.e., fear of being unable to relate in a meaningful way or take care of a close family member with dementia). Thus, the goal of this research was to develop, refine, and psychometrically validate a scale (Fear of Incompetence—Dementia Scale; FOI-D) assessing fear of incompetence in the context of relationships with a close family member diagnosed with dementia. Three online studies were conducted to accomplish the primary objective. In Study One, the factor structure of the FOI-D was assessed by conducting an exploratory factor analysis using data from 710 adults who indicated having a close living family member who had been diagnosed with dementia. In Study Two, the factor structure was validated via a confirmatory factor analysis and the psychometric properties were established using data from 636 adults who had a family member with dementia. Finally, Study Three determined the temporal consistency of the scale by retesting 58 participants from Study Two. The results from Study One indicated that the FOI-D Scale accounted for 51.75% of the variance and was comprised of three subscales: the Interaction Concerns subscale, the Caregiving Concerns subscale, and the Knowledge Concerns subscale. In Study Two, the three-factor structure was supported, resulting in a 58-item scale. Investigation of the psychometric properties demonstrated the FOI-D to be reliable and valid. In Study Three, the FOI-D Scale demonstrated excellent temporal consistency. This research provides future investigators, educators, and practitioners with an adaptable comprehensive tool assessing fear of incompetence in a variety of settings.
Effects on Local Temperature and Energy of Oasis City Expansion in Arid Area of Northwest China
Authors: Zhang Miao , Luo Geping , Cai Peng , Hamdi Rafiq
Published: February 2020

The land surface model SURFEX 7.3 was used to study climate effect of urban expansion located in oasis in arid area of Northwest China by surface and 2 m urban heat island (UHI) intensity and available energy ratio (B). We performed a true regional development scenario and three assumed scenario simulations in 1978, 1993, 2004, and 2014, respectively. The results show that 2 m UHI always displays positive twin peaks during whole day, while surface UHI only displays a positive single peak with several hours during daytime at four seasons in the four years. Moreover, 2 m UHI intensity during night is higher than that during daytime, indicating that UHI intensity is contributed more by “trap effect” from urban complex geometry or anthropogenic heat and that surface UHI according to land surface temperature cannot reflect UHI comprehensively. The oasis-urban development resulted in local warming and increasing of B, and compared with the original undeveloped environment, local climate in the study area was in a relatively balanced state in 1978 and 1993 due to the “heating effect” of urban area and the “cooling effect” of oasis, but the offsetting effect from oasis would become weaker after1993.