bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of microbial additive on microbial populations, ensiling characteristics, and spoilage loss of delayed sealing silage of Napier grass
Authors: Cai Yimin , Du Zhumei , Yamasaki Seishi , Nguluve Damiao , Tinga Benedito , Macome Felicidade , Oya Tetsuji
Published: August 2019

Objective: To measure whether a microbial additive could effectively improve the fermentation quality of delayed-sealing (DS) silage, we studied the effects of inoculants of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and cellulase enzyme on microbial populations, ensiling characteristics, and spoilage loss of DS silage of Napier grass in Africa.Methods: Quick-sealing (QS) and DS silages were prepared with and without LAB (Lactobacillus plantarum) inoculant, cellulase enzymes, and their combination. The QS material was directly chopped and packed into a bunker silo. The DS material was packed into the silo with a delay of 24 h from harvest.Results: In the QS silage, LAB was dominant in the microbial population and produced large amounts of lactic acid. When the silage was treated with LAB and cellulase, the fermentation quality was improved. In the DS silage, aerobic bacteria and yeasts were the dominant microbes and all the silages were of poor quality. The yeast and mold counts in the DS silage were high, and they increased rapidly during aerobic exposure. As a result, the DS silages spoiled faster than the QS silages upon aerobic exposure.Conclusion: DS results in poor silage fermentation and aerobic deterioration. The microbial additive improved QS silage fermentation but was not effective for DS silage.
From Inside the DLSEF
Authors: Stokes Dr. Katharine M.
Published: August 2019

From Inside the DLSEF
Third Library History Seminar
Authors: Kaser David
Published: August 2019

Third Library History Seminar
Reseña de: Gómez Bravo, Gutmaro: Geografía humana de la represión franquista. Del Golpe a la Guerra de ocupación (1936-1941)
Authors: Jiménez Herrera Fernando
Published: August 2019

Reseña del libro publicado en 2017 Geografía Humana de la represión franquista. Del golpe a la guerra de ocupación de Gutmaro Gómez Bravo
Reseña de: Sánchez, Raquel y San Narciso, David (coords.), La cuestión de Palacio. Corte y cortesanos en la España contemporánea
Authors: Pajarín Domínguez Jorge
Published: August 2019

Sánchez, Raquel y San Narciso, David (coords.), La cuestión de Palacio. Corte y cortesanos en la España contemporánea. Granada, Comares, 2018 ISBN: 978-84-9045-740-5.
Ni liberales ni comunistas. La «democracia orgánica» y la integración del Franquismo y el Estado Novo en la Europa posterior a 1945 = Neither Liberals nor Communist. The «Organic Democracy» and the Integration of Francoism and the Estado Novo in Post-1945 Europe
Authors: Domper Lasús Carlos
Published: August 2019

El artículo analiza el intento del Estado Novo y el Franquismo por definirse como «democracias orgánicas» a partir de 1945 y lo sitúa en el marco de la lucha por conceptualizar el término «democracia» que tuvo lugar en la Europa de posguerra. Combinando la historia política y la historia comparada y utilizando los discursos realizados por los principales representantes de ambas dictaduras entre 1945 y 1957, el artículo proporciona el primer análisis de las principales características de tal discurso y sus conexiones con el desarrollado durante esos mismos años por los principales actores de la política europea. De este modo, el artículo aporta una nueva perspectiva para evaluar los procesos de integración de ambas dictaduras en la Comunidad Internacional posterior a 1945. Además, matiza el relato del proceso de conceptualización de la democracia en la Europa de posguerra. Finalmente, reta el marco interpretativo según el cual ambas dictaduras quedaron aisladas y completamente desconectadas de la historia europea tras la derrota del Eje.AbstractThis article analyzes the post-1945 attempt of the Portuguese New State and Francoism to define themselves as «organic democracies» and places it within the framework of the struggle to conceptualize democracy that took place in postwar Europe. By combining political and comparative history and resorting to discourses delivered by the main political authorities of both dictatorships between 1945 and 1957, the article provides the first account of the major characteristics of such a discourse and its connections with the discourses on democracy that the main European political actors developed during the postwar. In doing so, it provides a new perspective to assess both dictatorships integration process into the post-1945 International Community. Moreover, it nuances the account of the process of conceptualization of democracy in postwar Europe. Finally, it challenges the interpretative framework according to which both regimes became isolated and completely disconnected from European history after the Axis defeat.
Filter feeding in Late Jurassic pterosaurs supported by coprolite contents
Authors: Qvarnström Martin , Elgh Erik , Owocki Krzysztof , Ahlberg Per E. , Niedźwiedzki Grzegorz
Published: August 2019

Diets of pterosaurs have mainly been inferred from indirect evidence such as comparative anatomy, associations of co-occurring fossils, and functional morphology. Gut contents are rare, and until now there is only a single coprolite (fossil dropping), with unidentified inclusions, known. Here we describe three coprolites collected from a palaeosurface with numerous pterosaur tracks found in early Kimmeridgian (Hypselocyclum Zone) intertidal deposits of the Wierzbica Quarry, Poland. The specimens’ morphology and association to the tracks suggest a pterosaur producer. Synchrotron scans reveal numerous small inclusions, with foraminifera making up the majority of the identifiable ones. Other small remains include shells/carapaces (of bivalves, ostracods, and other crustaceans/arthropods) and bristles (some possibly of polychaete worms). The high density of the small shelly inclusions suggest that they were not accidently ingested, but constituted an important food source for the pterosaur(s), perhaps together with unpreserved soft-bodied animals. The combined evidence from the tracks and coprolites suggest a filter-feeding ctenochasmatid as the most likely tracemaker. If true, this significantly expands the bromalite record for this pterosaur group, which was previously only known from gastroliths. Moreover, this study also provides the first direct evidence of filter feeding in Jurassic pterosaurs and shows that they had a similar diet to the recent Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis).
Effectiveness of small road tunnels and fences in reducing amphibian roadkill and barrier effects at retrofitted roads in Sweden
Authors: Helldin Jan Olof , Petrovan Silviu O.
Published: August 2019

Schemes to reduce road impacts on amphibians have been implemented for decades in Europe, yet, several aspects on the effectiveness of such schemes remain poorly understood. Particularly in northern Europe, including Sweden, there is a lack of available information on road mitigation for amphibians, which is hampering implementation progress and cost-effectiveness analyses of mitigation options. Here, we present data derived from systematic counts of amphibians during spring migration at three previous hot-spots for amphibian roadkill in Sweden, where amphibian tunnels with guiding fences have been installed. We used the data in combination with a risk model to estimate the number of roadkills and successful crossings before vs. after mitigation and mitigated vs. adjacent non-mitigated road sections. In mitigated road sections, the estimated number of amphibians killed or at risk of being killed by car traffic decreased by 85–100% and the estimated number successfully crossing the road increased by 25–340%. Data, however, suggested fence-end effects that may moderate the reduction in roadkill. We discuss possible explanations for the observed differences between sites and construction types, and implications for amphibian conservation. We show how effectiveness estimates can be used for prioritizing amphibian passages along the existing road network. Finally, we emphasize the importance of careful monitoring of amphibian roadkill and successful crossings before and after amphibian passages are constructed.
Promotion of Efficacy in the Regulation of Noise Pollution in Kenya through Devolution and Public Participation
Authors: Mercy Emojong Amai , Michura Eliud Garry , Ndege Aloyce
Published: August 2019

This research article examines the promotion of efficacy in the regulation of noise pollution in Kenya through devolution and public participation. The prevention of noise pollution has been recognised as a component of a clean and healthy environment. In many countries, Kenya included, comparatively little attention is paid to noise pollution, despite its importance in the urban and industrial scene.  For example, although the provisions of sections 115 and 175 of the Public Health Act and the Penal Code respectively, prohibit and criminalise public nuisance, their enforcement is outside the competence of the individual. Rarely does one hear of a court action by public health or other officers yet pollution continue to occur.  It appears that there has been total apathy by the officers concerned with the enforcement and the community affected by the nuisance. Lack of efficacy in the implementation and enforcement of the Regulations is a major reason for the existence of noise pollution in Kenya. Among the challenges faced is the lack of resources in terms of logistics to create awareness with regards to the problems associated with noise pollution. The Kenyan public are yet to appreciate and understand that noise is an unnecessary evil in the society. As the level of noise pollution rises every day at an alarming rate a serious problem is looming to the members of the public and the country in terms of the health issues, communication troubles, general nuisance, and its corresponding effects on wildlife. There is a limited research field study and gaps in this area regarding noise pollution control and how to enhance its efficacy in Kenya. New strategies, beyond the simple command and control instruments currently in place at the national level, shall help in changing behaviours in ways that shall be beneficial to the society as a whole. This paper tends to look at how the various tiers of national and county governments have embraced these principles in the promotion of efficacy in the environmental governance in Kenya, especially in noise pollution control.
In vitro Antifungal Activity of Plant Extracts, Hydrolates and Essential Oils of Some Medicinal Plants and Control of Cucumber Anthracnose
Authors: P. Mattos Amanda , P. Povh Fabricio , B. Rissato Bruna , V. Schwan Vítor , Schwan-Estrada Kátia R. F.
Published: August 2019

Aims: This study is aimed to evaluate the in vitro antifungal activity effect of the crude aqueous extract (CAE), hydrolate (HY) and essential oil (EO) of Corymbia citriodora, Cymbopogon citratus, Cymbopogon flexuosus and Curcuma longa against the phytopathogenic fungi Alternaria steviae, Botryosphaeria dothidea, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Sclerotium rolfsii, and assess, in situ, the effectiveness of CAE of medicinal plants in reducing the severity of the cucumber anthracnose.

Methodology: The EOs and HYs were obtained by hydrodistillation. The CAEs were prepared by the turbolysis method. Mycelial growth of the fungi was measured daily, by the diametrically opposite method. In the in vivo test, the CAEs were sprayed on the cotyledon leaves of healthy cucumber plants with three days after were inoculated with C. lagenarium. The severity of assessment of the disease was based on a scale of notes.

Results: The medicinal plants studied showed antifungal activity against all or almost all pathogens. In general, treatment with CAE and HY of C. longa revealed the highest inhibition against the fungi tested. With the exception of the EO of C. longa, the other EOs showed total inhibition against all the fungi and in all the concentrations tested. Compared to control, in in vivo assays CAE of C. citratus presents a potential for control of cucumber anthracnose reducing the severity of the disease.

Conclusion: The medicinal plants studied produce compounds associated with antimicrobial activity.
The longitudinal relationships of interpersonal openness trait, hostility, and hostile attribution bias
Authors: Wang Ya‐Jie , Xia Ling‐Xiang
Published: August 2019

While the relationship between personality, hostility, and hostile attribution bias (HAB) has been explored in previous studies, their longitudinal relationship is unclear, and no related study has utilized the indigenous Chinese personality. This research explored the longitudinal relationships of interpersonal openness (IO; an indigenous Chinese personality construct), hostility, and HAB. The 942 valid participants (38.5% male, mean age = 20.83, standard deviation =
 1.04) were from six different provinces in China. Measurements were completed on two separate occasions (Times 1 and 2), with a 6‐month interval. Results showed that IO has longitudinal effects on hostility, after controlling for the Big Five, and HAB could be longitudinally predicted by IO and hostility as well. Moreover, hostility served as a mediator in the relationship between IO and HAB. These results suggest that IO can affect the development of hostility and HAB, and some indigenous Chinese personality factors may complement Western personality theories.
Alterations in the human gut microbiome in anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor encephalitis
Authors: Gong Xue , Liu Xu , Li Chen , Chen Chu , Lin Jingfang , Li Aiqing , An Dongmei , Zhou Dong , Hong Zhen
Published: August 2019

Objective

To explore the diversity and composition of the fecal microbiota in patients with anti‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis.

Methods

We enrolled 10 patients in the acute stage with naïve treatment, seven patients with relapse, 13 patients without relapse in the remission phase, and 12 paired healthy controls. The fecal microbiota in different groups was compared by 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) gene pyrosequencing.

Results

Prominent dysbiosis in the gut microbiome of patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis was found. Our primary findings showed that the overall species richness (alpha diversity indexes) of the microbiota was higher in patients than in controls (P < 0.05). Distance‐based community analysis revealed that the microbiota differed substantially within all subgroups of patients and controls (P < 0.05). The relative abundance of species heatmap showed a tendency toward depletion for some commensal genera, such as Prevotella_6, Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, and other short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA)‐producing bacteria. Additionally, our results showed that all subgroups had a distinct bacterial species, with an increase in the genus Fusobacterium in the acute phase group and the genera Streptococcus and Parabacteroides in patients with relapse. However, the genus Bacteroides was very abundant in patients without relapse. Although the findings regarding the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratios across the four comparison groups were not statistically significant, the F/B ratio gradually increased in patients from the acute phase group (0.87), to the disease remission group with relapse (1.06), to the group without relapse (1.28), to the healthy group (1.63).

Interpretation

Patients with anti‐NMDAR encephalitis exhibit a substantial alteration in fecal microbiota composition.
Transformable Nanoparticle‐Enabled Synergistic Elicitation and Promotion of Immunogenic Cell Death for Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Xu Chenfeng , Yu Yulin , Sun Yu , Kong Li , Yang Conglian , Hu Mei , Yang Ting , Zhang Jiao , Hu Qian , Zhang Zhiping
Published: August 2019

Although cisplatin‐based neoadjuvant chemotherapy is an efficient therapy approach for triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC), it has dismal prognosis and modestly improved survival benefit. Here, a synergistic immunotherapy of TNBC premised on the elicitation and promotion of immunogenic cell death (ICD) response, through a transformable nanoparticle‐enabled approach for contemporaneous delivery of cisplatin, adjudin, and WKYMVm is reported. The nanoparticles can sequentially respond to matrix metalloproteinases‐2, pH, and glutathione to achieve structural transformation with the advantages of optimal size change, efficient drug delivery, and well‐controlled release. Cisplatin and adjudin can synergistically amplify reactive oxygen species (ROS) cascade and eventually increase the formation of hydrogen peroxide and downstream highly toxic ROS like •OH, which can elicit ICD response by mechanisms of endoplasmic reticulum stress, apoptotic cell death, and autophagy. WKYMVm can further promote anti‐TNBC immunity by activation of formyl peptide receptor 1 to build stable interactions between dendritic cells and dying cancer cells. Thus, the nanoparticles achieve significant primary tumor regression and pulmonary metastasis inhibition as well as a remarkable survival benefit, with boosting of the innate and adaptive anti‐TNBC immunity.
Graphdiyne‐Based Materials: Preparation and Application for Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Wang Ning , He Jianjiang , Wang Kun , Zhao Yingjie , Jiu Tonggang , Huang Changshui , Li Yuliang
Published: August 2019

Graphdiyne (GDY) has drawn much attention for its 2D chemical structure, extraordinary intrinsic properties, and wide application potential in a variety of research fields. In particular, some structural features and basic physical properties including expanded in‐plane pores, regular nanostructuring, and good transporting properties make GDY a promising candidate for an electrode material in energy‐storage devices, including batteries and supercapacitors. The chemical structure, synthetic strategy, basic chemical–physical properties of GDY, and related theoretical analysis on its energy‐storage mechanism are summarized here. Moreover, through a view of the mutual promotion between the structure modification of GDY and the corresponding electrochemical performance improvement, research progress on the application of GDY for electrochemical energy storage is systematically explored and discussed. Furthermore, the development trends of GDY in energy‐storage devices are also comprehensively assessed. GDY‐based materials represent a bright future in the field of electrochemical energy storage.
Host–Guest Hybrid Redox Materials Self‐Assembled from Polyoxometalates and Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Jordan Jack W. , Lowe Grace A. , McSweeney Robert L. , Stoppiello Craig T. , Lodge Rhys W. , Skowron Stephen T. , Biskupek Johannes , Rance Graham A. , Kaiser Ute , Walsh Darren A. , Newton Graham N. , Khlobystov Andrei N.
Published: August 2019

The development of next‐generation molecular‐electronic, electrocatalytic, and energy‐storage systems depends on the availability of robust materials in which molecular charge‐storage sites and conductive hosts are in intimate contact. It is shown here that electron transfer from single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) to polyoxometalate (POM) clusters results in the spontaneous formation of host–guest POM@SWNT redox‐active hybrid materials. The SWNTs can conduct charge to and from the encapsulated guest molecules, allowing electrical access to >90% of the encapsulated redox species. Furthermore, the SWNT hosts provide a physical barrier, protecting the POMs from chemical degradation during charging/discharging and facilitating efficient electron transfer throughout the composite, even in electrolytes that usually destroy POMs.
Defect Mitigation in Area‐Selective Atomic Layer Deposition of Ruthenium on Titanium Nitride/Dielectric Nanopatterns
Authors: Soethoudt Job , Hody Hubert , Spampinato Valentina , Franquet Alexis , Briggs Basoene , Chan Boon Teik , Delabie Annelies
Published: August 2019

Area‐selective deposition (ASD) receives increasing attention as a bottom‐up approach for nanoelectronic device fabrication. Uptake of ASD is however limited by defects, which manifest as undesired particle growth on the nongrowth surface. A defect mitigation solution is demonstrated for Ru ASD on TiN/SiO2 nanopatterns by making use of the size‐dependent Ru nanoparticle reactivity. During the initial stages of 1‐(ethylbenzyl)‐1,4‐(ethylcyclohexadienyl)ruthenium and oxygen (EBECHRu/O2) atomic layer deposition (ALD) on dielectrics, Ru particles are too small to catalytically dissociate oxygen, and their growth is suppressed. This phenomenon creates an ASD process window in which particles can be completely etched while retaining the integrity of the ASD pattern on a TiN growth surface. Decreasing the ALD temperature strongly suppresses defect growth, which can be used to expand the process window for ASD. The ASD process window is confirmed by self‐focusing secondary ion mass spectrometry (SF‐SIMS) with its low limit of detection while analyzing 104 structures simultaneously. No defects are detected for Ru ASD on 36 nm TiN/SiO2 patterns by SF‐SIMS. The Ru ASD process is applied for bottom‐up block patterning and functional hardmask patterns are obtained on 300 mm wafers. The approach followed in this work can produce defect‐free ASD processes for a wide variety of applications.
A Meta‐Analysis of Program Characteristics for Youth with Disruptive Behavior Problems: The Moderating Role of Program Format and Youth Gender
Authors: Granski Megan , Javdani Shabnam , Anderson Valerie R. , Caires Roxane
Published: August 2019

There is high variability in efficacy for interventions for youth with disruptive behavior problems (DBP). Despite evidence of the unique correlates and critical consequences of girls’ DBP, there is a dearth of research examining treatment efficacy for girls. This meta‐analysis of 167 unique effect sizes from 29 studies (28,483 youth, 50% female; median age: 14) suggests that existing treatments have a medium positive effect on DBP (g = .33). For both boys and girls, the most effective interventions included (a) multimodal or group format, (b) cognitive skills or family systems interventions, and (c) length‐intensive programs for (d) younger children. Boys demonstrated significantly greater treatment gains from group format interventions compared to girls, which is particularly important given that the group program format was the most prevalent format for boys and girls, with 14 studies involving 10,433 youth encompassing this category. This is the first meta‐analysis to examine the effect of program characteristics in a sample of programs selected to be specifically inclusive of girls. Given that girls are underrepresented in intervention research on DBP, findings are discussed in terms of gender‐responsive considerations and elucidating how key aspects of program structure can support more effective intervention outcomes for youth.
Recent Advances in Natural Products Synthesis Using Bifunctional Organocatalysts Bearing a Hydrogen‐Bonding Donor Moiety
Authors: Odagi Minami , Nagasawa Kazuo
Published: August 2019

Organocatalysis is widely used for the asymmetric synthesis of natural products and pharmaceuticals, and bifunctional organocatalysts are particularly effective for controlling stereochemistry. Here, we present an overview of natural products syntheses involving bifunctional catalysts bearing a hydrogen‐bonding donor moiety reported during the last five years.
Design, synthesis, molecular docking, and anticancer activity of benzoxazole derivatives as VEGFR‐2 inhibitors
Authors: El‐Helby Abdel‐Ghany A. , Sakr Helmy , Eissa Ibrahim H. , Abulkhair Hamada , Al‐Karmalawy Ahmed A. , El‐Adl Khaled
Published: August 2019

Novel series of benzoxazoles 4a‐f‐16 were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for anticancer activity against HepG2, HCT‐116, and MCF‐7 cells. HCT‐116 was the most sensitive cell line to the influence of the new derivatives. In particular, compound 5e was found to be the most potent against HepG2, HCT‐116, and MCF‐7 with IC50 = 4.13 ± 0.2, 6.93 ± 0.3, and 8.67 ± 0.5 µM, respectively. Compounds 5c, 5f, 6b, 5d, and 6c showed the highest anticancer activities against HepG2 cells with IC50 of 5.93 ± 0.2, 6.58 ± 0.4, 8.10 ± 0.7, 8.75 ± 0.7, and 9.95 ± 0.9 µM, respectively; HCT‐116 cells with IC50 of 7.14 ± 0.4, 9.10 ± 0.8, 7.91 ± 0.6, 9.52 ± 0.5, and 12.48 ± 1.1 µM, respectively; and MCF‐7 cells with IC50 of 8.93 ± 0.6, 10.11 ± 0.9, 12.31 ± 1.0, 9.95 ± 0.8, and 15.70 ± 1.4 µM, respectively, compared with sorafenib as a reference drug with IC50 of 9.18 ± 0.6, 5.47 ± 0.3, and 7.26 ± 0.3 µM, respectively. The most active compounds 5c‐f and 6b,c were further evaluated for their vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) inhibition. Compounds 5e and 5c potently inhibited VEGFR‐2 at lower IC50 values of 0.07 ± 0.01 and 0.08 ± 0.01 µM, respectively, compared with sorafenib (IC50 = 0.1 ± 0.02 µM). Compound 5f potently inhibited VEGFR‐2 at low IC50 value (0.10 ± 0.02 µM) equipotent to sorafenib. Our design was based on the essential pharmacophoric features of the VEGFR‐2 inhibitor sorafenib. Molecular docking was performed for all compounds to assess their binding pattern and affinity toward the VEGFR‐2 active site.
Performance‐based near‐optimal vibration control for nonlinear offshore platforms with delayed input
Authors: Zhong Xiao‐Fang , Han Shi‐Yuan , Zhou Jin , Chen Yue‐Hui , Tang Gong‐You
Published: August 2019

This paper investigates the vibration control problem for offshore platform, where the nonlinear characteristics, delayed input and external wave force are considered in time domain. By introducing a delay‐free reconstructional vector and applying the maximum principle, the original vibration problem for offshore platform is formulated as a nonlinear two‐point‐boundary‐value (TPBV) problem with delayed items. The major contribution of this paper is that a performance‐based near‐optimal vibration control strategy is proposed by solving this nonlinear TPBV problem, which includes a feedback item with offshore platform system state, a feedforward item with wave force state, and a compensator for nonlinear and delayed items with infinite supersensitive component. In particular, the designed compensator is calculated from two group series of linear differential equations by introducing a parameter for expending the Maclaurin series of nonlinear and delay items. Meanwhile, an iterative algorithm is designed to make the proposed vibration control scheme computable based on the control performance in each iterative procedure. Finally, experimental results show that the displacement, velocity and performance index of an employed offshore platform achieved small values under the proposed control strategy and designed algorithm.
Robustness of Statistical Methods II. Methods for the one‐Sample Problem
Authors: Herrendörfer G. , Rasch D. , Feige K. D.
Published: August 2019

This paper presents a new exact method of the investigation of the robustness in the one‐sample‐case of the u‐, t‐ and χ2‐statistics for discrete alternatives to the underlying normal distribution. First results for sample sizes up to n = 230 are given.
On the Use of Incomplete Frames in Sample Surveys
Authors: Singh R.
Published: August 2019

The existence of a frame is the pre‐requisite for designing any sampling inquiry or census. The quality of frame not only provides a basis for chosing the appropriate sampling design but also affects the ultimate results obtained. However, the existence of an accurate frame is very rare and generally all the frames are subject to various shortcomings. The incompleteness of the frame is one of the most common defects of almost all frames, mainly due to the dynamic nature of the populations. Seal (1962), Hartley (1962), Hansen, Hurwitz and Jabine (1964) etc. have suggested various procedures to deal with the problem of incomplete frames. In the present investigation, procedure suggested by Hansen, Hurwitz and Jabine (1964) has been used for estimating the population total for the characteristic under study in the two situations namely (i) when the units missing from the frame are random and (ii) when the missing units differ from units available in the frame.
A Stochastic Model for Estimating Adolescent Sterility
Authors: Nair N. U.
Published: August 2019

In this article, a simple stochastic model for the time to first conception of a cohort of married women is developed, by identifying three states, ‘adolescent sterile’, ‘ovulating’ and ‘conceived‘, into which they can be placed. It is demonstrated that the model provides a close fit to observed data. The estimates of the parameters in the model, can be used to calculate the number of women in each state at different points of time and also to obtain estimates of the probabilities of conception for the two categories of women, adolescent sterile and biologically mature.
Robust Estimators on Laboratory Measurements of Fat and Protein in Milk
Authors: Spj⊘tvoll E. , Aastveit A. H.
Published: August 2019

A total of 57 estimators of location were compared on data from routine laboratory measurements of fat and protein content in milk. Measurements in milk delivered from farmers to 6 different Norwegian dairies were used as a basis for a Monte Carlo study. The results indicated that the better robust estimators give an important increase in precision relative to the sample mean.
The Design of Inheritance Studies
Authors: Simpson J. M. , McGilchrist C. A.
Published: August 2019

In a study of the inheritance of a quantitative trait in the general population, data are collected from the three‐generational nuclear families of many index cases. The question arises as to the optimal choice of family members to maximise the power of testing a hypothesis of polygenic and environmental effects against an alternative of environmental effects only.

The method chosen is to minimise the asymptotic variance of the ratio of polygenic to environmental variance, for fixed total variance and the environmental correlations between family members. Using Taylor expansions in the region where the ratio is close to zero, an approximate expression for the variance of the ratio is obtained. This expression can then be evaluated for all possible structures of a three‐generational nuclear family of a given size.
OnC‐Property in Block Designs
Authors: Ceranka B. , Kozłowska M.
Published: August 2019

Block designs having a property described in Caliński (1971) and Saha (1976), referred to herein asC‐property, are considered. A necessary and sufficient condition for a block design to haveC‐property is derived, and some methods of construction of such block designs are presented.
The Sizes of Spheres from Profiles in a Thin Slice II. Transparent Spheres
Authors: Coleman R.
Published: August 2019

Formulae are derived for obtaining the size distribution of transparent spherical particles which are embedded in an opaque material. The data are the sizes of the circular profiles made by particles in a random thin slice of a specimen when it is viewed orthogonally. The formulae incorporate resolution constraints which cause various profile size ranges to be unobservable. Approximate solutions are obtained under specific resolution constraints when the slice is very thin.

The corresponding case of opaque spheres in a transparent material was the subject of Part I (Coleman, 1982).
Inverse‐probability‐of‐treatment weighted estimation of causal parameters in the presence of error‐contaminated and time‐dependent confounders
Authors: Shu Di , Yi Grace Y.
Published: August 2019

Inverse‐probability‐of‐treatment weighted (IPTW) estimation has been widely used to consistently estimate the causal parameters in marginal structural models, with time‐dependent confounding effects adjusted for. Just like other causal inference methods, the validity of IPTW estimation typically requires the crucial condition that all variables are precisely measured. However, this condition, is often violated in practice due to various reasons. It has been well documented that ignoring measurement error often leads to biased inference results. In this paper, we consider the IPTW estimation of the causal parameters in marginal structural models in the presence of error‐contaminated and time‐dependent confounders. We explore several methods to correct for the effects of measurement error on the estimation of causal parameters. Numerical studies are reported to assess the finite sample performance of the proposed methods.
Marginal variable screening for survival endpoints
Authors: Edelmann Dominic , Hummel Manuela , Hielscher Thomas , Saadati Maral , Benner Axel
Published: August 2019

When performing survival analysis in very high dimensions, it is often required to reduce the number of covariates using preliminary screening. During the last years, a large number of variable screening methods for the survival context have been developed. However, guidance is missing for choosing an appropriate method in practice. The aim of this work is to provide an overview of marginal variable screening methods for survival and develop recommendations for their use. For this purpose, a literature review is given, offering a comprehensive and structured introduction to the topic. In addition, a novel screening procedure based on distance correlation and martingale residuals is proposed, which is particularly useful in detecting nonmonotone associations. For evaluating the performance of the discussed approaches, a simulation study is conducted, comparing the true positive rates of competing variable screening methods in different settings. A real data example on mantle cell lymphoma is provided.
Objective and subjective stress, personality, and allostatic load
Authors: Christensen Dinne S. , Dich Nadya , Flensborg‐Madsen Trine , Garde Ellen , Hansen Åse M. , Mortensen Erik L.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Despite the understanding of allostatic load (AL) as a consequence of ongoing adaptation to stress, studies of the stress–AL association generally focus on a narrow conceptualization of stress and have thus far overlooked potential confounding by personality. The present study examined the cross‐sectional association of objective and subjective stress with AL, controlling for Big Five personality traits.

Methods

Participants comprised 5,512 members of the Copenhagen Aging and Midlife Biobank aged 49–63 years (69% men). AL was measured as a summary index of 14 biomarkers of the inflammatory, cardiovascular, and metabolic system. Objective stress was assessed as self‐reported major life events in adult life. Subjective stress was assessed as perceived stress within the past four weeks.

Results

Both stress measures were positively associated with AL, with a slightly stronger association for objective stress. Adjusting for personality traits did not significantly change these associations.

Conclusions

The results suggest measures of objective and subjective stress to have independent predictive validity in the context of personality. Further, it is discussed how different operationalizations of stress and AL may account for some of the differences in observed stress–AL associations.
Risk factors predisposing to cardia gastric adenocarcinoma: Insights and new perspectives
Authors: Abdi Esmat , Latifi‐Navid Saeid , Zahri Saber , Yazdanbod Abbas , Pourfarzi Farhad
Published: August 2019

Recent decades have seen an alarming increase in the incidence of cardia gastric adenocarcinoma (CGA) while noncardia gastric adenocarcinoma (NCGA) has decreased. In 2012, 260 000 CGA cases (age‐standardised rate (ASR); 3.3/100 000) and 691 000 NCGA cases (ASR; 8.8/100 000) were reported worldwide. Compared with women, men had greater rates for both the subsites, especially for CGA. Recently, four molecular subtypes of GC have been proposed by the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Asian Cancer Research Group (ACRG); however, these classifications do not take into account predisposing germline variants and their possible interaction with somatic alterations in carcinogenesis. The etiology of adenocarcinoma of the cardia and the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) is not known. It is thought that CGA is distinct from adenocarcinomas located in the esophagus or distal stomach, both epidemiologically and biologically. Moreover, CGA is often identified in the advanced stage having a poor prognosis. Therefore, understanding the risk and the role of predisposing factors in etiology of CGA can inform clinical practice and counseling for risk reduction. In this paper, we showed that GC family history, lifestyle, demographics, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Helicobacter pylori infection, and multiple genetic and epigenetic risk factors as well as several predisposing conditions may underlie susceptibility to CGA. However, several genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) should be conducted to identify novel high‐penetrance genes and pathways as well as causal germline variants predisposing to CGA. They must include different ethnic groups, especially from high‐incidence countries for CGA, because some risk loci are ancestry‐specific. In parallel, statistical methods can be developed to identify cancer predisposition genes (CPGs) from tumor sequencing data. It is also necessary to find novel long noncoding RNAs related to the risk of CGA. Taken altogether, new cancer risk prediction models, including all genetic and nongenetic factors influencing risk, should be developed to facilitate risk assessment, disease prevention, and early diagnosis and intervention of CGA in the future.
Identification of microRNA‐181 as a promising biomarker for predicting the poor survival in colorectal cancer
Authors: Peng Qiliang , Yao Wenyan , Yu Chenxiao , Zou Li , Shen Yuntian , Zhu Yaqun , Cheng Ming , Feng Zhengyang , Xu Bo
Published: August 2019

Background

A series of studies have investigated the vital role of microRNA‐181 (miR‐181) in the initiation and development of colorectal cancer (CRC), and demonstrated that it might be associated with the prognosis of CRC. However, inconsistent findings have hindered its clinical application.

Methods

A comprehensive meta‐analysis and an integrative bioinformatics analysis were carried out for concluding current available evidence, clarifying the preliminary prognostic value and unfolding the underlying biological function of miR‐181 in CRC patients.

Results

The findings revealed that elevated expression levels of miR‐181 were associated with significantly poorer overall survival rates (HR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.26‐2.43, P < .05). Meanwhile, the target genes of miR‐181 were identified and enriched into several important gene ontology (GO) categories and signaling pathways including miRNAs in cancer, pathways in cancer, proteoglycans in cancer, colorectal cancer, FoxO signaling pathway, PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, VEGF signaling pathway, HIF‐1 signaling pathway, mTOR signaling pathway, and cAMP signaling pathway, which were confirmed highly involved in the initiation and progression of CRC. In addition, the protein‐protein interaction (PPI) networks were set up by miR‐181 targets to screen hub nodes and significant modules, which were also considerably associated with the molecular pathogenesis of CRC.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that miR‐181 could be a promising biomarker with predictive value for prognosis for CRC patients. However, future studies comprising large cohorts from multicenter are warranted to further investigate the biomarker value of miR‐181.
Survival benefit of palliative gastrectomy followed by chemotherapy in stage IV gastric signet ring cell carcinoma patients: A large population‐based study
Authors: Shi Tao , Song Xueru , Liu Qin , Yang Yang , Yu Lixia , Liu Baorui , Wei Jia
Published: August 2019

Background

Stage IV gastric signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) is a type of malignant gastric cancer (GC) with poorer survival compared to metastatic non‐SRCC gastric cancer (NOS). However, chemotherapy alone was unable to maintain long‐term survival. This study aimed to evaluate survival benefit of palliative gastrectomy plus chemotherapy (PG+C) for metastatic gastric SRCC.

Methods

We obtained data on gastric cancer patients between 2010 and 2015 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Statistical methods included χ2 tests, Kaplan‐Meier curves, COX models, propensity score matching (PSM) and subgroup analysis.

Results

Among 27 240 gastric cancer patients included, 4638 (17.03%) were SRCC patients. The proportion of patients with younger age, female gender, poorly differentiated grade and M1 stage was higher in SRCC than in NOS (P < .001). Multivariate analysis revealed that multiple metastatic sites (HR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.14‐1.69, P = .001) was associated with increased mortality risk in metastatic SRCC. Median survival time was improved in metastatic SRCC receiving PG+C compared to PG/C alone (13 vs 7 months, P < .001). Notably, in subgroup analysis, 13 of 17 groups of metastatic SRCC patients with PG+C had prolonged overall survival compared to chemotherapy alone, especially for those with only one metastatic site (HR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.51‐0.73, P < .001).

Conclusions

Our results suggested that there exists at least a selective group of stage IV gastric SRCC patients, who could benefit from palliative gastrectomy followed by chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. Further prospective trials are needed to support our conclusion.
Voltammetric H/D Isotope Effects on Redox‐Active Small Molecules Conjugated with DNA Self‐Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Galagedera Sarasi K. K. , Flechsig Gerd‐Uwe
Published: August 2019

This paper describes the largest H/D kinetic isotope effect (KIE) at room temperature (25 °C) reported to date (kH/kD=2400). In voltammetric measurements with DNA monolayers on gold electrodes, a maximum shift of −400 mV was recorded for the reduction peak potential of 50 μM hexammine cobalt(III) (CoHex) in 10 mM Tris buffer upon replacing water with deuterium oxide in the electrolyte. In subsequent comparative investigations, a much smaller shift (ca. −80 mV) was recorded with daunomycin, whereas no potential shift was recorded with hexammine ruthenium(III) (RuHex). The interactions of RuHex, CoHex, and daunomycin with a mixed self‐assembled monolayer of single‐stranded DNA and 6‐mercapto‐1‐hexanol (ssDNA/MCH SAM) immobilized on gold electrodes were studied by using cyclic and differential‐pulse voltammetry (CV and DPV, respectively). The hydrogen‐bond network within the ssDNA layer seems to amplify the voltammetric H/D isotope effect with CoHex. Voltammetric studies of H/D isotope effects can provide a platform to investigate amplified isotope effects probably not only on DNA layers, but also on proteins and small organic molecules and may be useful for studies of cell proliferation as well as drug testing.
Niobium Enhances Electrocatalytic Pd Activity in Alkaline Direct Glycerol Fuel Cells
Authors: Souza Felipe M. , Böhnstedt Paula , Pinheiro Victor S. , Paz Edson C. , Parreira Luanna S. , Batista Bruno L. , Santos Mauro C.
Published: August 2019

PdxNby/C binary electrocatalysts supported on Printex 6 L carbon black were prepared by using an adapted chemical reduction method with sodium borohydride. The electrocatalysts were characterized by using SEM, TEM, XRD, EDS, ICP‐MS, water contact angle and Raman spectroscopy. The best performance for the alkaline direct glycerol fuel cell (ADGFC) was obtained by using Pd1Nb1/C, which yielded a maximum power density of 27 mW cm−2 at 70 °C. Residues of products formed from the glycerol oxidation were analyzed by using FT‐Raman and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The Pd1Nb1/C electrocatalyst exhibited a more negative onset potential for the CO oxidation reaction and a higher conversion rate of glycerol to carbonate. We suggest that the higher hydrophilicity, higher degree of disorder, and bifunctional effects enhanced the electrocatalytic activity of Pd, as Nb facilitated the oxidation of adsorbed CO in Pd and increased the transfer rate of electron from Pd to carbon black support Therefore, Nb is a promising co‐catalyst for Pd‐based electrocatalysts for ADGFCs.
Opportunities for improving use of evidence‐based therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease
Authors: Gao Yumin , Peterson Eric , Pagidipati Neha
Published: August 2019

Evidence‐based therapy that target hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking cessation, and weight loss have demonstrated significant benefits in reducing cardiovascular risks and related events. Although the benefit of intensively lowering blood glucose is unclear, newer antidiabetic drugs (glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors) have shown cardiovascular benefits in addition to their antihyperglycemic effect. Yet, studies suggest that recent use of evidence‐based therapy and management of cardiovascular risk among individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains largely suboptimal. The following narrative review first identifies barriers to translating research evidence to clinical practice at the levels of provider, health system, patient, and cost. Then it synthesizes previous implementation strategies that addressed multifaceted barriers and attempted to improve care for patients with T2D and CVD. In conclusion, team‐based care coordination, reminding systems in combination to pharmacist consultation and patient education, provider education compatible with clinical workflow, and coupled incentives between providers and patients appeared to be effective in reducing cardiovascular risks for patients with T2D and CVD, though the scalability and long‐term clinical effect of these strategies as well as the possibility of interventions involving payers and health systems remain uncertain.
On the Possibilities and Considerations of Interfacing Ultra‐High Vacuum Equipment with an Electrochemical Setup
Authors: Maagaard Thomas , Tiwari Aarti , Chorkendorff Ib , Horch Sebastian
Published: August 2019

Efficient electrocatalysts are required in order for electrocatalysis to play a large role in a future largely based on renewable energy sources. To rationally design these catalysts we need to understand the fundamental origin of their activities. In order to elucidate the relationship between catalyst structure and electrochemical behaviour, we investigate well‐defined single‐crystal catalysts in a UHV chamber interfaced with an electrochemical setup. Using the capabilities of UHV based methods, we can prepare more complex surface structures than it is possible with traditional EC methods and investigate their electrochemical behaviour. We exemplify this by showing results from both clean and intentionally structured Pt(111), Cu(111) and Pt/Cu(111).
Prolonging the Cycle Life of a Lithium–Air Battery by Alleviating Electrolyte Degradation with a Ceramic–Carbon Composite Cathode
Authors: Luo Zhifu , Li Yanyan , Liu Zixuan , Pan Linhai , Guan Wanbing , Liu Peng , Wang Deyu
Published: August 2019

Carbon materials with a high specific surface area are usually preferred to construct the air cathode of lithium–air batteries due to their abundant sites for oxygen reduction and discharge product growth. However, the high surface area also amplifies electrolyte degradation during charging, which would become the threshold of cyclability after addressing the issue of electrode passivation and pore clogging, but is usually overlooked in relevant research. Herein, it is proven that the critical influence of cathode surface area on electrolyte consumption by adopting carbon–ceramic composites to reduce the surface area of the air cathode. After screening several potential ceramic materials, an optimal composite of Ketjenblack (KB) and La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (LSM) delivered a discharge capacity that was even higher than that of pure KB. This composite effectively mitigated the parasitic reaction current by 45 % if polarized at 4.4 V versus Li+/Li. Correspondingly, this composite prolonged the cycle life of the cell by 156 %. The results demonstrate that electrolyte consumption during charging is one of the critical boundary conditions to restrain the cyclic stability of lithium–air batteries.