bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction of seed dispersal and environmental filtering affects woody encroachment patterns in coastal grassland
Authors: Woods Natasha N. , Dows Benjamin L. , Goldstein Evan B. , Moore Laura J. , Young Donald R. , Zinnert Julie C.
Published: July 2019

Encroachment of woody plants into grasslands has occurred worldwide and includes coastal ecosystems. This conversion process is mediated by seed dispersal patterns, environmental filtering, and biotic interactions. As spatiotemporally heterogeneous, harsh environments, barrier islands present a unique set of challenges for dispersal and establishment. Environmental conditions act as filters on dispersed seeds, thereby influencing encroachment and distribution patterns. Seldom have patterns of propagule dispersal been considered in the context of woody encroachment. We quantified dispersal and post‐dispersal processes of an encroaching woody population of Morella cerifera relative to directional rate of encroachment and observed distribution patterns on an Atlantic coastal barrier island with strong environmental filtering. We analyzed historic foredune elevation as a proxy for reduced interior environmental stress. The dispersal kernel was leptokurtic, a common characteristic of expanding populations, but rate of encroachment has slowed since 2005. Expansion pattern was related to foredune elevation, which limits encroachment below a threshold elevation. This difference between dispersal kernel behavior and encroachment rate is due to limited availability of suitable habitat for Morella and temporal variability in chlorides during the time of germination. Our results demonstrate that processes mediating seeds and seedling success must be accounted for to better understand establishment patterns of encroaching woody plants.
Carbon Gasification from a Molten Carbonate Eutectic
Authors: Glenn Michael J. , Allen Jessica A. , Donne Scott W.
Published: July 2019

This investigation explores the impact of using a ternary alkali metal carbonate eutectic, i.e., Li2CO3, Na2CO3, and K2CO3 (43.5: 31.5: 25 mol%, respectively), as a catalyst for carbon gasification under CO2 and non‐CO2 atmospheres. Gasification under CO2, i.e., the reverse Boudouard reaction, is a well‐understood process with considerable commercial interest. However, in the context of direct carbon fuel cell (DCFC) operations, it is a parasitic reaction because it consumes fuel without producing power. In this study, the effect on carbon gasification of a common DCFC electrolyte is examined. Thermogravimetric analysis shows gasification occurring in the absence of a CO2 atmosphere, which has significant implications for DCFCs using alkali metal carbonates as the secondary electrolyte. A combined reaction mechanism is proposed which entails gasification from carbonate and carbonate decomposition.
Supervised learning and graph signal processing strategies for beam tracking in highly directional mobile communications
Authors: Ortega Yosbel R. , Guerreiro Igor M. , Hui Dennis , Cavalcante Charles C. , Cavalcanti F. Rodrigo P.
Published: July 2019

The use of efficient beam tracking mechanisms becomes necessary in highly directional communication of the fifth‐generation systems. In this context, this paper analyzes the tracking problem and proposes a framework that exploits the samples in the user equipment (UE) dataset (historical UE dataset) to efficiently estimate and predict the channel state at the base station. The framework is composed of two steps. First, a supervised learning algorithm, namely, K‐nearest neighbors (K‐NN), is evaluated as a mean of (i) finding the most similar historical samples to some beam measurements reported by the UE and (ii) predicting the corresponding channel state. As a second step, a sampling and reconstruction strategy based on graph signal processing (GSP) called K‐nearest neighbors with reconstruction (K‐NN‐R) is introduced in order to reduce the beam search space during the beam measurement stage, which allows a more efficient usage of the feedback channel. Simulation results illustrate the performance of the proposal in terms of normalized mean square error in comparison with three traditional/baseline prediction techniques. The K‐NN technique provides a better performance than the baseline approaches for any length of the observed temporal window and with full beam sweep. Meanwhile, the K‐NN‐R framework outperforms the baseline approaches with only half of the beam pairs and throughout a significantly low length of observed temporal window.
Effects of three products from Antarctic krill on the nitrogen balance, growth, and antioxidation status of rats
Authors: Ma Xiaoming , Liu Chuyi , Wang Changwei , Ma Xiaoying , Che Shuai , Feng Xiaomei , Li Bafang , Dai Yuankun
Published: July 2019

A few studies conducted over the past few decades have demonstrated the health benefits of a diet rich in marine products, but limited studies have investigated the effects of different krill products on the nitrogen balance and their potential health benefits. In our study, after a 14‐day acclimation period, 50 female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups, each of which was fed a different diet, for 28 days. We then evaluated the effect of krill protein complex (KPC), krill powder, and defatted krill powder on the nitrogen balance, growth, and antioxidant activity through analyses of MDA, CAT, GSH‐Px, and T‐SOD. An in vivo analysis suggested that the nitrogen retention rate, protein digestibility, and bioutilization of krill products were equal to those of casein. Moreover, the KPC diet resulted in the highest nitrogen intake and retention among the groups, and the biological value and net protein utilization obtained with KPC were higher than those obtained with defatted krill powder, which was consistent with the weight gains observed for these two groups. The hematological test also showed that KPC contributed to the production of functional proteins in the body. The antioxidant activity analysis indicated that higher GSH‐Px and T‐SOD activities were obtained with krill products and KPC, respectively, compared with casein. The results from this study suggested that krill proteins could promote growth and improve the antioxidant status of an organism. Although further studies on the safety of krill products for human consumption are needed, this work provides insights into the use of krill proteins as a potential substitute for other proteins and restructured foods.
Mechanism of steam‐declined sulfation and steam‐enhanced carbonation by DFT calculations
Authors: Yang Peng , Sun Zhao , Duan Lunbo , Tang Hongjian
Published: July 2019

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) removals are of great significance for fossil fuel combustion, where they can be simultaneously captured by calcium‐based absorbents. Nevertheless, the CO2 uptake capacity declines with SO2 partial pressures. This paper aims at explaining the mechanisms of steam‐declined sulfation and steam‐enhanced carbonation by density functional theory calculations. CaO(001) surface is chosen as the absorbent, and the transition state is calculated to obtain the desorption barrier energy of the adsorbates. By analyzing the desorption of the adsorbate on pristine CaO(001) surface and the CaO(001) surface that has adsorbed other adsorbate, it can be concluded that SO2 adsorption inhibits CO2 adsorption since the barrier energy of CO2 desorption on SO2‐CaO(001) surface (24.15 kJ mol–1) is less than CO2 desorption on CaO(001) surface (129.52 kJ mol–1). By comparing the coadsorption energy of the two adsorbates with the sum of the adsorption energy of each adsorbate, it is practical that the H2O adsorption inhibits SO2 adsorption because the calculated coadsorption energy (−221.27 kJ mol–1) is larger than the sum of H2O adsorption energy (–100.00 kJ mol–1) and SO2 adsorption energy (−194.37 kJ mol–1). However, the calculated coadsorption energy of H2O and CO2 adsorption (−254.89 kJ mol–1) is less than the sum of CO2 adsorption energy (−144.23 kJ mol–1) and H2O adsorption energy (−100.00 kJ mol–1), indicating the promotion of CO2 adsorption. Steam in the adsorption process plays the roles of sulfation suppression and carbonation enhancement. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Is Associated With Liver‐Related Outcomes and All‐Cause Mortality in Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Choi Hannah S.J. , Brouwer Willem P. , Zanjir Wayel M.R. , de Man Robert A. , Feld Jordan J. , Hansen Bettina E. , Janssen Harry L.A. , Patel Keyur
Published: July 2019

Background and Aims

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are increasingly observed together in clinical practice, and development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents another leading cause of liver‐related morbidity and mortality. Our aims were to determine whether biopsy‐proven NASH impacts clinical outcomes in CHB patients and assess prognostic risk factors.

Approach and Results

CHB patients attending two tertiary centers in North America and Europe over 13 years with available clinical and biopsy data were included. Patients were categorized as no‐NASH or probable/definite NASH based on standardized histological assessment. Clinical events (death, decompensation, transplant, and hepatoma) were evaluated, and Kaplan‐Meier survival estimates and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to analyze the incidence of events. There were 1,089 CHB patients, classified as no‐NASH (n = 904, 83%) or NASH (n = 185, 17%), with 52 (6%) versus 27 (15%) experiencing outcome events during follow‐up, respectively. In the multivariable analysis adjusting for age, sex, hepatitis B e antigen serostatus, and diabetes, the presence of NASH and concomitant advanced fibrosis (AF) was significantly associated with clinical outcomes (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 4.8 [2.6‐9.0], P < 0.01) when compared to absence of NASH and AF (reference). NASH and AF were associated with a greater risk of outcomes compared to AF (P = 0.01) or NASH alone (P < 0.01). Of the three histological determinants of NASH, ballooning and inflammation, but not steatosis, were independently associated with clinical outcomes (P < 0.05) in place of NASH. NASH was significantly associated with increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and death (P < 0.01) but not decompensation (P = 0.33).

Conclusions

In our large combined tertiary center cohort, patients with concomitant NASH and CHB had more AF and shorter time to development of liver‐related outcomes or death compared to patients with CHB alone. Among patients with AF, superimposed NASH predicted poorer clinical outcomes.
Leadership in limbo: Characteristics of successful incident commanders in health sector of a disaster‐prone country
Authors: Nasiri Ali , Aryankhesal Aidin , Khankeh Hamidreza
Published: July 2019

Objective

Iran, as one of the most disaster‐prone countries in the world, is exposed to a wide range of hazards. Hence, the health sector should be prepared to deal with the consequences of emergencies. This study aimed to explore Iranian disaster management status and to identify the necessary characteristics of successful incident commanders in this field.

Methods

A qualitative content analysis was designed using in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with 30 commanders and experts, selected by purposeful sampling, who had first‐hand experiences in managing health disasters. Field notes, formal institutional reports, and photos were employed as well. Verbatim transcribed interviews and other data sources were analyzed using constant comparison method. Ethical issues were considered carefully throughout the study process.

Results

Two main themes were developed: The first theme, "limbo situation," as expression of the problem describes inadequacies and complexities of disaster management in Iranian health sector, including seven categories. The second theme was "effective disaster leadership" consisting of "commanders' traits" and "commanders' competencies" as subthemes.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated the chaotic feature of disaster management in Iran and probably some other developing countries, with crucial and unclear role of field commanders. Working under stress, time pressure, uncertainty, and management of paradoxes needs timely and on‐field decision making. This study revealed that Iranian health sector incident commanders should be transformational leaders with the ability of influencing subordinate staff and have Janusian thinking skills for overcoming the existing limbo situation.
Likelihood evaluation of models with occasionally binding constraints
Authors: Cuba‐Borda Pablo , Guerrieri Luca , Iacoviello Matteo , Zhong Molin
Published: July 2019

Applied researchers interested in estimating key parameters of dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models face an array of choices regarding numerical solution and estimation methods. We focus on the likelihood evaluation of models with occasionally binding constraints. We document how solution approximation errors and likelihood misspecification, related to the treatment of measurement errors, can interact and compound each other.
Impact of length of replication competent genome of hepatitis B virus over the differential antigenic secretion
Authors: Amir Fatima , Siddiqui Zaheenul Islam , Farooqui Sabihur Rahman , Anwer Ayesha , Khan Saniya , Azmi Md Iqbal , Mehmankhah Mahboubeh , Dohare Ravins , Khan Luqman Ahmad , Kazim Syed Naqui
Published: July 2019

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome consists of circular partially double stranded DNA of 3.2 kb size which gets converted into covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) during its life cycle. It then acts as a template for formation of pregenomicRNA (pgRNA) of 3.5 kb. Absence of appropriate animal models prompted a need to establish a better in vitro culture system to uncover the propagation and survival mechanisms of the virus. There is scarcity of data to represent the significance of varying length of replication competent viral genome on the secretion of viral secretory proteins/antigens and in turn on the overall effects on the accomplishment of the viral life cycle. The present study was undertaken to ascertain a suitable replication competent construct in which the viral life cycle of HBV with varying clinical relevance can be studied efficiently. Two constructs (pHBV 1.3 and pHBV 1X) of different sizes were used to transfect hepatoma cells and consequently the secretory antigens were monitored. In vector free approach (pHBV 1X), 3.2 kb viral DNA is directly transfected in the culture system whereas in vector mediated approach more than full length of viral genome is cloned in a vector (pHBV 1.3X) and transfected to obtain a 3.5 kb pgRNA intermediate. HBV secretes two important antigens; HBsAg and HBeAg. HBsAg is a hallmark of infection and is the first to be secreted in the blood stream whereas HBeAg is a secretory protein and remains associated with the viral replication. The construct pHBV 1.3X referring to as more than full length, by virtue of being capable of undergoing transcription without the synthesis of cccDNA intermediate (unlike the clinical situation where an intermediate step of cccDNA synthesis is an essential component to initiate the viral life cycle) appears to be better system for studying viral life cycle in in vitro culture system. The reasons could be assigned to the fact that as low as 100 ng of viral DNA was shown to quantify the replicative phenotypes with this construct. The better efficiency of this construct at prima facie, appears to be mediated through the significantly higher levels of pgRNA transcript during the viral life cycle.
Key modules and hub genes identified by coexpression network analysis for revealing novel biomarkers for larynx squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hang , Zhao Xudong , Wang Mengmeng , Ji Wenyue
Published: July 2019

Larynx squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the second most aggressive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Numerous genes have been identified to be aberrantly expressed during the development of LSCC. However, currently, researchers focus more on the individual molecule and downstream genes, leaving the coexpression among genes and key upstream disease driver genes unexploited. In this study, we applied weighted gene coexpression analysis (WGCNA) to decipher potential hub genes driving the development of LSCC. After downloading of LSCC microarray profile from gene expression omnibus, different expression analysis was performed, which was used to conduct functional enrichment analysis. Then, we applied WGCNA to highlight the hub genes which were relevant to the carcinogenesis and progression. A total of 2858 differentially expressed genes were identified in LSCC samples compared with adjacent non‐neoplastic tissues. WGCNA revealed three LSCC set‐specific modules having significant Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment effect, including pink, cyan, and black module. Nine hub genes were identified to be crucial in LSCC onset and progression, which may assist clinical decisions and serve as potential targets for LSCC treatment.
Characterization of Severe Adverse Drug Reactions at a Free‐Standing Children's Hospital
Authors: Yu Diana , Sheets Justin , Suppes Sarah , Goldman Jennifer
Published: July 2019

We performed a retrospective chart review on severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs) detected by a pharmacovigilance program at a free‐standing pediatric hospital from January 2011 through September 2014. The pharmacist‐led program identifies ADRs using electronic medical record triggers. A systematic approach was used to classify ADR type and severity and assure accurate documentation. Data collection included demographics, implicated medication, type of ADR, Naranjo probability scale, ADR‐associated International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision E codes, 30‐day mortality, and health care visit cost. One hundred sixty‐six severe pediatric ADRs were included, occurring in 163 unique patients. Severe ADRs were commonly associated with antimicrobials (48%), antineoplastics (10%), and antiepileptics (10%). The majority of ADRs were classified by the Naranjo probability scale as probable (59%). One hundred fifty‐four patients were admitted to the hospital, with a median length of stay of 3 days; 22 of these patients required admission to the pediatric intensive care unit for a median of 3 days. The median estimated health care cost associated with severe ADRs was $4055.52. No deaths occurred. Nearly 40% of severe ADRs would have gone unidentified using ADR‐associated International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision E codes alone. The impact of pediatric ADRs on the health care system is underestimated. Strategies such as active pharmacovigilance programs enhance the identification, characterization, and documentation of these otherwise unrecognized ADRs.
CuBr2‐Promoted Multicomponent Aerobic Reaction for the Synthesis of 1,2,3‐Triaroylindolizines
Authors: Sun Jinwei , Han Junwen , Zhang Yuxuan , Liu Yun
Published: July 2019

An efficient synthesis of 1,2,3‐triaroylindolizines has been developed via CuBr2‐promoted reaction of three molecules of aromatic methyl ketones and one molecule of pyridine derivative. A wide range of methyl aryl ketones and methyl heteroaryl ketones took part in the reaction and generate 1,2,3‐triaroylindolizines in good yields. This protocol also features such advantages as mild reaction conditions and high atom economy and step economy.
Bezel free design of organic light emitting diode display via a‐InGaZnO gate driver circuit integration within active array
Authors: Kim Kyung Min , Han Inhyo , Noh Seok , Jang Young In , Oh Kilhwan , Kim Bumsik , Kang In‐Byeong
Published: July 2019

In this article, we described an innovative design technology of active matrix organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display, to provide a bezel free design. We designed gate driver circuit of amorphous indium‐gallium‐zinc oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs) not on the bezel area but within the active array. Although we applied challengeable design, no degradation of electrical/optical properties of panel was observed. Because we effectively prevented capacitive coupling and interference between the emission circuit and integrated gate driver circuit in active array, finally, we successfully demonstrated a bezel free designed AMOLED display of 18.3″ HD (1366 × 768) driven by a‐InGaZnO TFTs.
Surface modified solution‐derived nickel oxide film via ion‐beam irradiation as a liquid crystal alignment layer
Authors: Lee Ju Hwan , Won Jonghoon , Jeong Hae‐Chang , Kim Dong Hyun , Lee Dong Wook , Song In Ho , Oh Byeong‐Yun , Han Jeong‐Min , Kim Dai‐Hyun , Seo Dae‐Shik
Published: July 2019

In this article, we demonstrate the liquid crystal (LC) alignment characteristics of solution‐derived nickel oxide (NiO) film modified with ion‐beam (IB) irradiation. Cross‐polarized optical microscopy and pretilt angle measurements verified that uniform LC alignment was achieved using the NiO film as an alignment layer regardless of IB incidence angle. Contact angle measurements revealed that all of the NiO films had a deionized water contact angle below 90°, which indicates that they had hydrophilic surfaces that had an effect on the homogeneous LC alignment. Atomic force microscopy was conducted to determine the physical surface modification due to the IB irradiation, which showed that it reduced the size of the surface grains with agglomerations depending on the surface tilt from the IB incidence angle. Furthermore, microgroove structures strongly related to uniform LC alignment were observed after IB irradiation. Chemical surface modification was investigated via an X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis which revealed that IB irradiation modified the chemical bonds in the NiO film, and this affected the LC alignment state. Thus, these results indicate that using NiO film exposed to IB irradiation as an alignment layer is a suitable method for LC applications.
The contrasting roles of aquatic fungi and oomycetes in the degradation and transformation of polymeric organic matter
Authors: Masigol Hossein , Khodaparast Seyed Akbar , Woodhouse Jason Nicholas , Rojas‐Jimenez Keilor , Fonvielle Jeremy , Rezakhani Forough , Mostowfizadeh‐Ghalamfarsa Reza , Neubauer Darshan , Goldhammer Tobias , Grossart Hans‐Peter
Published: July 2019

Studies on the ecological role of fungi and, to a lesser extent, oomycetes, are receiving increasing attention, mainly due to their participation in the cycling of organic matter in aquatic ecosystems. To unravel their importance in humification processes, we isolated several strains of fungi and oomycetes from Anzali lagoon, Iran. We then performed taxonomic characterization by morphological and molecular methods, analyzed the ability to degrade several polymeric substrates, performed metabolic fingerprinting with Ecoplates, and determined the degradation of humic substances (HS) using liquid chromatography‐organic carbon detection. Our analyses highlighted the capacity of aquatic fungi to better degrade a plethora of organic molecules, including complex polymers. Specifically, we were able to demonstrate not only the utilization of these complex polymers, but also the role of fungi in the production of HS. In contrast, oomycetes, despite some morphological and physiological similarities with aquatic fungi, exhibited a propensity toward opportunism, quickly benefitting from the availability of small organic molecules, while exhibiting sensitivity toward more complex polymers. Despite their contrasting roles, our study highlights the importance of both oomycetes and fungi in aquatic organic matter transformation and cycling with potential implications for the global carbon cycle.
Preventive Effects of Thermosensitive Biopolymer‐Conjugated C‐Peptide against High Glucose‐Induced Endothelial Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Jung Se‐Hui , Lee Jee‐Yeon , Lee Seong‐Hyeon , Kwon Mi‐Hye , Han Eun‐Taek , Park Won Sun , Hong Seok‐Ho , Kim Young‐Myeong , Ha Kwon‐Soo
Published: July 2019

C‐peptide has emerged as a potential drug for treating diabetic complications. However, clinical application of C‐peptide is limited by its short half‐life during circulation and costly synthesis methods. To overcome these limitations, a biocompatible and thermosensitive biopolymer‐C‐peptide conjugate composed of human C‐peptide genetically conjugated at the C‐terminus of nine repeats of lysine‐containing elastin‐like polypeptide (K9‐C‐peptide) is generated. K9‐C‐peptide exhibits reversible thermal phase behavior with a transition temperature dependent on polypeptide concentration. Degradation of K9‐C‐peptide hydrogel depends on the concentration of four cleavage enzymes as well as the reaction time and frequency of treatments with elastase‐2. The preventive effect of K9‐C‐peptide against high glucose‐induced human aortic endothelial cell dysfunction is further investigated. K9‐C‐peptide inhibits high glucose‐induced intracellular reactive oxygen species generation, transglutaminase 2 activation, and apoptosis, similar to the inhibitory effects of human C‐peptide. Thus, K9‐C‐peptide is a potential drug depot for the sustained delivery of C‐peptide to treat diabetic complications.
Technical Note: Characterization of the new microSilicon diode detector
Authors: Schönfeld Ann‐Britt , Poppinga Daniela , Kranzer Rafael , De Wilde Rudy Leon , Willborn Kay , Poppe Björn , Looe Hui Khee
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Dosimetric properties of the new microSilicon diode detector (60023) have been studied with focus on application in small‐field dosimetry. The influences of the dimensions of the sensitive volume and the density of the epoxy layer surrounding the silicon chip of microSilicon have been quantified and compared to its predecessor (Diode E 60017) and the microDiamond (60019, all PTW‐Freiburg, Germany).

Methods

Dose linearity has been studied in the range from 0.01 to 8.55 Gy and dose‐per‐pulse dependence from 0.13 to 0.86 mGy/pulse. The effective point of measurement (EPOM) was determined by comparing measured percentage depth dose curves with a reference curve (Roos chamber). Output ratios were measured for nominal field sizes from 0.5 × 0.5  cm2 to 4 × 4 cm2. The corresponding small‐field output correction factors, k, were derived with a plastic scintillation detector as reference. The lateral dose–response function, K(x), was determined using a slit beam geometry.

Results

MicroSilicon shows linear dose response (R2 = 1.000) in both low and high dose range up to 8.55 Gy with deviations of only up to 1% within the dose‐per‐pulse values investigated. The EPOM was found to lie (0.7 ± 0.2) mm below the front detector’s surface. The derived k for microSilicon (0.960 at seff = 0.55 cm) is similar to that of microDiamond (0.956), while Diode E requires larger corrections (0.929). This improved behavior of microSilicon in small‐fields is reflected in the slightly wider K(x) compared to Diode E. Furthermore, the amplitude of the negative values in K(x) at the borders of the sensitive volume has been reduced.

Conclusions

Compared to its predecessor, microSilicon shows improved dosimetric behavior with higher sensitivity and smaller dose‐per‐pulse dependence. Profile measurements demonstrated that microSilicon causes less perturbation in off‐axis measurements. It is especially suitable for the applications in small‐field output factors and profile measurements.
Moral competence and conduct disorder among Filipino children in conflict with the law
Authors: Mariano Melissa Paulita V.
Published: July 2019

Aims

The numbers of children in conflict with the law continue to rise in Asia, yet few studies have been conducted regarding factors associated with it. It has been theorized that children with conduct disorder represent majority of children in conflict with the law, and that poor moral competence mediates the association between conduct disorder and antisocial behavior. This study aimed to present a profile of Filipino children in conflict with the law, determine the prevalence of conduct disorder in the sample, and investigate variables associated with conduct disorder.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study conducted at a conflict with the law Custodial Care Center in the Philippines. The procedure entailed a diagnostic interview and questionnaire administration conducted by psychiatrists. Questionnaires administered included the Moral Competence Test and Parental Warmth and Acceptance Scale. Statistical analyses of data included descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests, and independent t tests. SPSS v.23.0 was used for data encoding and analysis.

Results

Twenty‐three participants were included in the study, with 10 participants with conduct disorder and 13 controls. Majority were male adolescents between the ages of 16 and 18 years. Conduct disorder was associated with commission of multiple violations, particularly theft and homicide, the presence of a substance use disorder, and a history of abuse. Participants with conduct disorder had lower moral competence levels compared to participants without conduct disorder.

Conclusion

Conduct disorder was associated with high‐risk antisocial behavior and lower levels of moral competence.
Haploidentical stem cell transplantation with posttransplant cyclophosphamide for refractory systemic juvenile xanthogranuloma
Authors: Ito Jumpei , Shima Haruko , Inoue Kyohei , Yamazaki Fumito , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: July 2019

Juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) is a generally benign, self‐limited histiocytic disorder, which belongs to non‐Langerhans cell histiocytoses (non‐LCH). However, systemic JXG can be fatal in rare cases. We present the case of an 11‐year‐old female with systemic JXG, who experienced repeated vertebral compression fractures and did not fully respond to systemic chemotherapy. Based on its reported efficacy in LCH, the patient underwent human leukocyte antigen‐haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) with posttransplant cyclophosphamide. The patient did not suffer major complications and has not experienced relapse for 13 months since HSCT. HSCT may be a potential treatment option for patients with refractory non‐LCH.
Conomarphins cause paralysis in mollusk: Critical and tunable structural elements for bioactivity
Authors: Mendoza Charmaine B. , Masacupan Dan Jethro M. , Batoctoy Dessa Camille R. , Yu Eizadora T. , Lluisma Arturo O. , Salvador‐Reyes Lilibeth A.
Published: July 2019

Two conomarphins were purified as the major component of the venom of Conus eburneus. Conomarphins Eb1 and Eb2 showed biological activity in the mollusk Pomacea padulosa, causing sluggishness and retraction of siphon, foot, and cephalic tentacles. To further probe the effects of conserved amino acids and posttranslational modifications in conomarphins, we prepared four synthetic analogues: conomarphin Eb1 Hyp10Pro, Hyp10Ala, d‐Phe13Ala, and l‐Phe13 variants. Structure‐activity relationship analysis indicated that d‐Phe13 is critical to the biological activity of conomarphins. In contrast, amino acid changes at position 10 and removal of posttranslational modification in Hyp10Pro can be tolerated. The high expression level and observed mollusk activity of conomarphins may suggest their potential role as defensive arsenal of Conoidean snails against other predatory gastropods.
Elastic and Bandgap Modulations of Hexagonal BC2N From First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Li Shuaiqi , Shi Liwei , Zhu Haiyan , Xia Wangsuo
Published: July 2019

The structural, elastic, and electronic properties of a potential superhard material h‐BC2N as a function of external forces, including hydrostatic pressure and biaxial strains, are investigated using first‐principles calculations. For both types of external forces employed, the well qualified elastic criteria and positive phonon frequencies confirm its mechanical and dynamical stability. Considerable elastic constants and elastic modulus, especially Youngs modulus (965 GPa) and shear modulus (444 GPa), are obtained at equilibrium condition. All the elastic constants and elastic modulus increase (decrease) with increasing pressure and compressive (tensile) along with a better (worse) ductile behavior. The theoretical Vickers hardness of h‐BC2N is 70.34 GPa, which is calculated from a microscopic determined model and increases notably with pressure and compressive strain. Debye temperature and elastic anisotropy of h‐BC2N are also included in this work, a sizeable Debye temperature of 2047K is obtained at ambient temperature. Besides, h‐BC2N is an indirect bandgap semiconductor with Eg = 3.84 eV which can be slightly modulated by external forces.
High‐Fidelity Universal Quantum Controlled Gates on Electron‐Spin Qubits in Quantum Dots Inside Single‐Sided Optical Microcavities
Authors: Cao Cong , Han Yu‐Hong , Zhang Li , Fan Ling , Duan Yu‐Wen , Zhang Ru
Published: July 2019

Semiconductor quantum‐dot (QD) spins hold great promise in quantum information science and technology. The implementation of high‐fidelity quantum gates on QD‐spin qubits is of great importance. Here, two schemes are presented to implement two universal quantum controlled gates, that is, the two‐qubit controlled‐not gate and the three‐qubit Toffoli gate, on stationary electron‐spin qubits in QDs inside single‐sided optical microcavities, based on the cavity‐assisted photon scattering under the balance condition. Compared with the previous schemes based on the ideal giant circular birefringence, the present schemes use the balance condition of the single‐sided QD‐cavity system, which can be achieved in both the weak‐ and strong‐coupling regimes of cavity quantum electrodynamics. Under the balance condition, the noise caused by the unbalanced reflectance between the coupled and uncoupled QD‐cavity systems can be efficiently depressed, so that the fidelity of each quantum gate operation can be increased to unity in principle. The schemes exhibit the possibility of realizing high‐fidelity and scalable quantum computing with single QD spins and single photons using the feasible and robust light–matter quantum interface. These high‐fidelity quantum controlled gates can lead to more efficient construction of quantum circuits for quantum computing, and provide a convenient avenue for quantum networking.
A case of central neurogenic hyperventilation without tachypnoea
Authors: Murata Saori , Takahashi Saeko , Kunieda Hisako , Oki Koichi , Nakamura Morio
Published: July 2019

Central neurogenic hyperventilation (CNH) is a rare condition, with 37 cases reported in the literature to date. The underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is the most common cause of CNH, with 17 cases reported so far. Among these, CNH was usually accompanied by tachypnoea. Only two cases, including the present case, showed CNH with normal respiratory rate. Here, we present a case of PCNSL‐induced CNH in a 60‐year‐old man. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated hyperintensity of the left cerebral cortex, basal ganglia, corona radiata, midbrain, and ventral pons on fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery. The patient complained of dyspnoea and showed hyperventilation without tachypnoea on admission or during hospitalization. Examining CNH cases without tachypnoea and comparing those cases to cases of CNH with tachypnoea might provide new insights into the mechanisms of CNH. Moreover, it should be remembered that CNH can occur without tachypnoea.
A palaeoenvironmental study of particle size‐specific connectivity—New insights and implications from the West Sussex Rother Catchment, United Kingdom
Authors: Foster Ian D.L. , Biddulph Matilda , Boardman John , Copeland‐Phillips Ruth , Evans Jennine , Pulley Simon J. , Zhang Yusheng , Collins Adrian L.
Published: July 2019

Connectivity has become an important conceptual and practical framework for understanding and managing sediment transfers across hillslopes, between hillslopes and rivers, and between rivers and other compartments along the river corridor (e.g., reservoirs, channel substrate, and floodplain). Conventionally, connectivity focuses on the quantity of sediment transferred but here, we also consider the size of the finer sediment (typically particles <500 μm diameter). We examine the role of small rapidly silting reservoirs in the river Rother on storing sediment and disrupting downstream sediment transfers. Spatial and temporal changes in the particle size characteristics of sediment deposited in one of the ponds is explored in detail. Downstream of this pond, we collected sediment from the river on nine occasions over 17 months using two sampling methods at two locations; first, immediately downstream of the pond and a second ~700 m further downstream but upstream of the confluence with the Rother. Results showed a significant depletion in sand‐sized particles immediately downstream of the pond but the sand had been recovered from an in‐channel source before the river reached the downstream sampling point.
Why does entrepreneurial orientation affect company performance?
Authors: Putniņš Tālis J. , Sauka Arnis
Published: July 2019

Research summary

To better understand why entrepreneurial orientation (EO) is positively associated with company performance, we propose and test a reconceptualization of how the components of EO (risk‐taking, innovativeness, proactiveness) combine in driving performance. Drawing on financial economics theory, our conceptualization highlights that all three components positively contribute to performance, but in different ways. Risk‐taking has a direct positive relationship with performance, which can be understood through the risk–return tradeoff that is central in financial economics theory. The relationship between risk‐taking and performance is conditional on the level of innovativeness and thus innovativeness contributes to performance through its effect on the type of risk‐taking. Proactiveness contributes to performance through its positive effect on the level of risk‐taking.

Managerial summary

This study analyzes three key drivers of company performance: risk‐taking, innovativeness, and proactiveness. We show that constructive risk‐taking is the central driver of company performance, mirroring the principle of risk and return in financial investment settings. Risk‐ taking that is associated with innovation has a particularly strong positive relationship with performance, consistent with innovation being a driver of growth and profitability. More proactive firms tend to take on more risk and thus also perform better than less proactive firms.
Toward watermarking compressed data in columnar database architectures
Authors: Yaqub Waheeb , Kamel Ibrahim , Aung Zeyar
Published: July 2019

A digital watermark is a secret pattern of bits inserted in the data objects to verify the integrity of the contents or to identify ownership. It is an effective technique for protecting various databases against data copyright infringement, piracy, and data tampering in both relational and not‐only‐Structured Query Language (NoSQL) databases including columnar database. Unfortunately, most of the existing digital watermarking schemes do not take into consideration the side effects that watermarking might have on the database's important characteristics such as data compression and overall performance. Thus, we are in need of database watermarking schemes that are tailored to the target database systems' specific architecture so that it does not interfere with the database's characteristics and performance. Columnar database is a type of NoSQL database where its data are stored in a column‐wise manner. This facilitates better query processing (by leaving the unrelated attributes on the disk) as well as higher compression ratio. In this research, we propose a distortion‐free fragile watermarking scheme for the columnar database architecture without interfering its underlying data compression scheme and its overall performance. The proposed scheme is flexible and can be adapted to various distributions of data. We tested our proposed scheme on both synthetic and real‐world data, and proved its effectiveness.
Parameter space of baryogenesis in the νMSM
Authors: Eijima S. , Shaposhnikov M. , Timiryasov I.
Published: July 2019

Abstract

The Standard Model accompanied with two right-handed neutrinos with masses below the weak scale can explain the observed baryon asymmetry of the Universe. Moreover, this model is at least partially testable in the forthcoming experiments such as NA62, SHiP, and MATHUSLA. The remarkable progress in understanding of various rates entering the kinetic equations describing the asymmetry generation along with considerable improvements of the numerical procedures allow us to perform a comprehensive analysis of the parameter space of the model. We find that the region of parameters leading to successful baryogenesis is notably larger than it was previously obtained for light HNLs. Our results are presented in a way that they can be readily used for studies of sensitivity of various experiments searching for the right-handed neutrinos responsible for the baryon asymmetry of the Universe. We also present a detailed comparison with the studies by other groups.
Double-logarithms in $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 8 supergravity: impact parameter description & mapping to 1-rooted ribbon graphs
Authors: Vera Agustín Sabio
Published: July 2019

Abstract

The set of double-logarithmic (DL) contributions (α t ln2
s)
n
to the 4-graviton amplitude in

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 8 supergravity (SUGRA), with α being the gravitational coupling and (s, t) the Mandelstam invariants, is studied in impact parameter (ρ) representation. This sector of the amplitude shows interesting properties which shed light on the nature of quantum corrections in gravity. Besides having a convergent behaviour as s increases, which is not present in

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

< 4 SUGRA theories, there exists a critical line ρ

c
(s) above which the Born amplitude prevails. The short distance region ρ < ρ

c
(s) is dominated by the DL terms. As a consequence, when studied in terms of an eikonal approach in the forward limit, the scattering angle linked to the bending of the semiclassical trajectory of the graviton shows a transition from attractive gravity at large distances to a region at small ρ characterized by a repulsive DL contribution to the gravitational potential due to the gravitino content of the theory. In the complex angular momentum plane, this DL high energy asymptotics is driven by the rightmost pole singularity of a parabolic cylinder function. The resummation of DL quantum corrections in

$$ \mathcal{N} $$

N

= 8 SUGRA can be understood in terms of the counting of 1-rooted maps on orientable surfaces.
Predictors of Death in Necrotizing Skin and Soft Tissue Infection
Authors: Eguia Emanuel , Vivirito Vincent , Cobb Adrienne N. , Janjua Haroon , Cheung Matthew , Kuo Paul C.
Published: July 2019

Background

Necrotizing skin and soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a surgical emergency that is associated with high morbidity and mortality. This study aims to identify predictors of in‐hospital death following a NSTI.

Material and methods

We queried the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) State Inpatient Database (SID) for California between 2006 and 2011. We used conventional and advanced statistical methods to identify predictors of in‐hospital mortality, which included: logistic regression, stepwise logistic regression, decision trees, and K‐nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithms.

Results

A total of 10,158 patients had a NSTI. The full and stepwise logistic regression models had a ROC AUC in the validation dataset of 0.83 (95% CI [0.80, 0.86]) and 0.81 (95% CI [0.78, 0.83]), respectively. The KNN and decision tree model had a ROC AUC of 0.84 (95% CI [0.81, 0.85]) and 0.69 (95% CI [0.65, 0.72]), respectively. The top predictors of in‐hospital mortality in the KNN and stepwise logistic model included: (1) the presence of in‐hospital coagulopathy, (2) having an infectious or parasitic diagnoses, (3) electrolyte disturbances, (4) advanced age, and (5) the total number of beds in a hospital.

Conclusion

Patients with a NSTI have high rates of in‐hospital mortality. This study highlights the important factors in managing patients with a NSTI which include: correcting coagulopathy and electrolyte imbalances, treating underlying infectious processes, providing adequate resources to the elderly population, and managing patients in high‐volume centers.
A New Metric for the Space of Macroscopic Parameters of Grain Interfaces
Authors: Morawiec A.
Published: July 2019

Analysis of datasets of macroscopic grain boundary parameters is based on grouping boundaries with similar parameters. Therefore, a measure of similarity or a distance between interfaces is needed. The paper introduces a new interface distance function. The function has properties allowing for accounting for equivalences among points in the macroscopic parameter space. Moreover, it has a simple interpretation: it minimizes the sum of angles of crystallite rotations needed to transform one interface into the other.
Rapid Isolation and Multiplexed Detection of Exosome Tumor Markers Via Queued Beads Combined with Quantum Dots in a Microarray
Authors: Bai Yanan , Lu Yunxing , Wang Kun , Cheng Zule , Qu Youlan , Qiu Shihui , Zhou Lin , Wu Zhenhua , Liu Huiying , Zhao Jianlong , Mao Hongju
Published: July 2019

Tumor-derived exosomes are actively involved in cancer progression and metastasis and have emerged as a promising marker for cancer diagnosis in liquid biopsy. Because of their nanoscale size, complex biogenesis, and methodological limitations related to exosome isolation and detection, advancements in their analysis remain slow. Microfluidic technology offers a better analytic approach compared with conventional methods. Here, we developed a bead-based microarray for exosome isolation and multiplexed tumor marker detection. Using this method, exosomes are isolated by binding to antibodies on the bead surface, and tumor markers on the exosomes are detected through quantum dot (QD) probes. The beads are then uniformly trapped and queued among micropillars in the chip. This design benefits fluorescence observation by dispersing the signals into every single bead, thereby avoiding optical interference and enabling more accurate test results. We analyzed exosomes in the cell culture supernatant of lung cancer and endothelial cell lines, and different lung cancer markers labeled with three QD probes were used to conduct multiplexed detection of exosome surface protein markers. Lung cancer-derived samples showed much higher (~ sixfold–tenfold) fluorescence intensity than endothelial cell samples, and different types of lung cancer samples showed distinctive marker expression levels. Additionally, using the chip to detect clinical plasma samples from cancer patients showed good diagnostic power and revealed a well consistency with conventional tests for serological markers. These results provide insight into a promising method for exosome tumor marker detection and early-stage cancer diagnosis.
Behavioural and social sciences to enhance the efficacy of health promotion interventions: redesigning the role of professionals and people
Authors: PENNUCCI FRANCESCA , DE ROSIS SABINA , MURANTE ANNA MARIA , NUTI SABINA
Published: July 2019

Evidence on the effectiveness of health promotion interventions is mixed, especially in terms of the magnitude of their impact and long-term adherence. This paper proposes a comprehensive approach informed by behavioural economics of developing behavioural change programmes, which is designed to educate, activate, engage and empower people by taking into consideration individual and social mechanisms. Three applied pilots and their results are presented in order to illustrate the approach using cognitive and social mechanisms to lead to better health outcomes, individually and community-wide. More research is needed to explore levers and barriers for the systemic adoption of this framework in implementing health promotion interventions.