bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Human‐Milk Metabolome in Cases of Intrauterine Growth–Restricted and Macrosomic Infants
Authors: Briana Despina D. , Fotakis Charalambos , Kontogeorgou Anna , Gavrili Stavroula , Georgatzi Sophia , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis , Malamitsi‐Puchner Ariadne
Published: February 2020

Background

Abnormal fetal growth is associated with short‐term and long‐term metabolic dysregulation and susceptibility to obesity‐related disorders. Maternal milk, the ideal source of infantile nutrition, protects from metabolic diseases in adulthood. By applying nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolomics, this study investigated the metabolic profile of early human milk/colostrum (EHM/C) at the extremes of fetal‐growth conditions, which could affect its nutritional value.

Methods

From 98 mothers delivering 60 appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age (AGA), 19 large‐for‐gestational‐age (LGA), and 19 intrauterine growth–restricted (IUGR) full‐term neonates, milk samples collected on the third to fourth day post partum were examined by NMR spectroscopy. Multivariate data analysis elicited information from NMR spectra and probed to metabolic signatures of EHM/C.

Results

LGA and IUGR EHM/C samples depicted increased content in lactose, citric acid, choline, phosphocholine, and N‐acetylglutamine. AGA samples exhibited increased isoleucine and valine. Metabolic pathways involved were valine, leucine/isoleucine biosynthesis and degradation, glycerophospholipid metabolism, aminoacyl–transfer RNA biosynthesis, and citrate cycle. Orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis models were validated.

Conclusion

This holistic metabolomics study framed an increased content of certain essential nutrients in EHM/C samples following the birth of LGA and IUGR infants prone to short‐ and long‐term metabolic disorders, thus stressing additional benefits of early breastfeeding. Assessing the metabolic profile of EHΜ/C enables evaluation of its nutrition value, adjusted to fetal growth, and introduction of appropriate dietary interventions.
Assessment and Optimization of the Pediatric Parenteral Nutrition Preparation Process in a Hospital Pharmacy
Authors: Mourkogianni Eleni , Karatza Aggeliki , Vinni Eleni , Papadimitriou Evangelia , Avgoustakis Konstantinos , Panagi Zoi
Published: February 2020

Background

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is associated with risks that could threaten the clinical condition of premature neonates hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit. In this work, risk‐analysis methodology was implemented to contain the risks associated with the PN production process and improve PN safety.

Methods

The Failure Modes, Effects, and Criticality Analysis was performed by a multidisciplinary team. All potential failure modes of the PN preparation process were recorded, and associated risks were scored based on their severity, occurrence, and detectability, with a risk priority number (RPN). All identified failure scenarios and the respective work stages were ranked in descending order of criticality. Corrective actions were proposed to address critical points, and the safety of the process was reassessed by the same method in a prospective manner.

Results

The highest RPN scores were obtained with the PN composition calculation performed manually (RPN: 530) or electronically (RPN: 478), completion of the PN medical order form (RPN: 354), manual compounding of PN admixtures (RPN: 258), and the structure/organization/maintenance of the PN preparation unit (RPN: 133). The quality and safety of PN admixtures could be compromised by many critical factors, such as the increased particle‐microbial load in the unit and the inadequate training/experience of the involved health professionals and their incompliance with the given instructions. The implementation of the proposed corrective measures is expected to reduce the risks of the overall PN production process by 67.5%.

Conclusions

Improvement of the PN production process through risk‐analysis methodologies enhances safety for premature neonates.
NUTRIC Score: Isolated and Combined Use With the NRS‐2002 to Predict Hospital Mortality in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Machado dos Reis Audrey , Marchetti Julia , Forte dos Santos Amanda , Franzosi Oellen Stuani , Steemburgo Thais
Published: February 2020

Background

Identification of nutritional risk in critically ill patients is a challenge because each nutritional screening tool has its specific characteristics. The objective was to evaluate the performance of the modified Nutrition Risk in Critically ill (mNUTRIC) score, used alone or in combination with the Nutritional Risk Screening 2002 (NRS‐2002) score, to predict hospital mortality in critically ill patients.

Methods

A prospective study was performed with patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) from October 2017 to April 2018. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to test for complementarity between the mNUTRIC and NRS‐2002. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to identify the performance of the instruments to predict mortality. This study was conducted in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statement.

Results

384 patients were evaluated (51.8% female mean age 59.6 ± 16.7 years). High nutritional risk was detected in 54.4% by the NRS‐2002 and 48.4% by mNUTRIC. The overall mortality rate was 36.5% (n = 140). Patients in whom nutritional risk was identified both by mNUTRIC and by NRS‐2002 (score ≥5) had a twofold greater risk of in‐hospital mortality (RR = 2.29; 95%CI: 1.42–3.68; p = 0.001). The area under the ROC curve to predict mortality was 0.693 for mNUTRIC; 0.645 for NRS‐2002; and 0.666 for mNUTRIC and NRS‐2002 combined.

Conclusions

The mNUTRIC and NRS‐2002 scores had similar performance in predicting hospital mortality. The mNUTRIC has better discriminant ability to quantify the risk of mortality in critically ill patients.
Enhanced trans‐to‐cis photoisomerization quantum yield of azobenzene spatially confined in silver nanoparticle aggregates
Authors: Sun Lili , Wang Changshun , Pan Yujia , Chen Tianyu , Lv Ziyao
Published: February 2020

Photoisomerization of azobenzene spatially confined in silver nanoparticle (AgNP) aggregates and in ethanol solution was monitored by Raman spectroscopy inside optically clear colorimetric dishes. After ultraviolet irradiation, overall Raman intensity assigned to trans‐azobenzene of these two samples decreased, and notably, a cis peak appeared at 599 cm−1, assigned to C─N═N─C torsional mode. The Raman intensity at 1,007 cm−1, assigned to trans‐azobenzene, was recorded versus irradiation time for analyzing the trans‐to‐cis photoisomerization quantum yield (PQY). By combining our theoretical derivation and standard curve of Raman spectra, the trans‐to‐cis PQY of azobenzene in AgNP aggregates was roughly calculated to be 79.0% higher than that in ethanol solution. The enhancement mechanism was discussed in terms of the competition between enhanced local optical field from surface plasmon resonance and the accelerated nonradiative decay of excited azobenzene molecules together.
Development and validation of a nomogram for predicting cancer‐specific survival of surgical resected stage I‐II adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung
Authors: Li Hao , Wang Zhenfan , Yang Fan , Wang Jun
Published: February 2020

Objectives

Primary lung adenosquamous carcinoma (ASC) is a rare cancer subtype and has a poor prognosis. The prognostic factors for resected early‐stage ASC remain unclear. We aimed to develop a nomogram to predict lung cancer‐specific survival (LCSS) of patients undergoing surgical resection for stage I‐II ASC.

Methods

Data of patients undergoing resection for stage I‐II ASC and diagnosed between 2004‐2015 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. All the included patients were randomized at a 7:3 ratio into a training and a validation cohort. We selected and integrated significant prognostic factors based on competing for risk regression to build a nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was evaluated using Harrell's concordance index (C‐index) and calibration plots.

Results

A total of 988 patients (530 men and 458 women) undergoing surgical resection for stage I‐II ASC were identified and randomized into a training (692, 70%) cohort and a validation cohort (296, 30%). The baseline characteristics were similar in the training and validation cohorts. Age, T stage, N stage, and the number of examined lymph nodes were independent prognostic factors for LCSS and were used in the nomogram. The calibration plots showed that the 3‐ and 5‐year LCSS probabilities were consistent between the nomogram prediction and the actual observation. The C‐index of the nomogram was 0.671 (95%CI: 0.618‐0.724) and 0.635 (95%CI: 0.557‐0.713) in the training cohort and validation cohort, respectively. We developed a risk classification system based on the nomogram to stratify patients into high‐ and low‐risk of cancer‐specific death groups. Patients with a similar risk shared similar prognostic prediction regardless of the stage category and patients with the same risk shared similar prognoses despite the different stage category.

Conclusions

We developed a competing risk nomogram to reliably predict cancer‐specific survival of patients undergoing surgical resection for stage I‐II ASC. The nomogram might be a useful tool to identify patients undergoing surgical resection for ASC who could be suitable candidates for adjuvant chemotherapy.
Hydrologic connectivity determines dissolved organic matter biogeochemistry in northern high‐latitude lakes
Authors: Johnston Sarah Ellen , Striegl Robert G. , Bogard Matthew J. , Dornblaser Mark M. , Butman David E. , Kellerman Anne M. , Wickland Kimberly P. , Podgorski David C. , Spencer Robert G. M.
Published: February 2020

Northern high‐latitude lakes are undergoing climate‐induced changes including shifts in their hydrologic connectivity with terrestrial ecosystems. How this will impact dissolved organic matter (DOM) biogeochemistry remains uncertain. We examined the drivers of DOM composition for lakes in the Yukon Flats Basin in Alaska, an arid region of low relief that is characteristic of over one‐quarter of circumpolar lake area. Utilizing the vascular plant biomarker lignin, chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM), and ultrahigh‐resolution mass spectrometry, we interpreted DOM compositional changes using lake‐water stable isotope (δ18O‐H2O) composition as a proxy for lake hydrologic connectivity with the landscape. We observed a relative decrease in CDOM in more hydrologically isolated lakes (enriched δ18O‐H2O) without a corresponding decrease in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration. Although DOC and CDOM were weakly correlated, a significant positive relationship between lignin and CDOM (r2 = 0.67) demonstrates that optical parameters are useful for estimating lignin concentration and thus vascular plant contribution to lake DOM. Indicators of allochthonous DOM, including lignin carbon normalized yields, CDOM aromaticity proxies, and relative abundances of polyphenolic and condensed aromatic compound classes, were negatively correlated with δ18O‐H2O (r2 > 0.45), suggesting there is little allochthonous DOM supplied to many of these hydrologically isolated lakes. We conclude that decreased lake hydrologic connectivity, driven by ongoing climate change (i.e., decreased precipitation, warming temperatures), will reduce allochthonous DOM contributions and shift lakes toward lower CDOM systems with ecosystem‐scale ramifications for heat transfer, photochemical reactions, productivity, and ultimately their biogeochemical function.
Dysprosium Mid‐Infrared Lasers: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Majewski Matthew R. , Woodward Robert I. , Jackson Stuart D.
Published: February 2020

With growing interest in the mid‐infrared spectral region, dysprosium has recently been revisited for efficient high‐performance infrared source development. Despite historically receiving less attention than other rare earth ions, in recent years lasers utilizing the dysprosium ion as the laser material have set record mid‐infrared performance, including tunability from 2.8 to 3:4 µm (in addition to 4:3 µm lasing), continuous wave powers exceeding 10 W, greater than 73% slope efficiencies, and even ultrafast pulsed operation. Herein, the unique energy level structure and spectroscopy of the dysprosium ion are examined and the major developments that have led to this resurgence of interest and subsequent record mid‐infrared laser performance are surveyed. Also mid‐infrared applications of emerging dysprosium lasers are highlighted, in addition to surveying the many opportunities that lie  ahead.
Directly Modulated Single‐Mode Tunable Quantum Dot Lasers at 1.3 µm
Authors: Wan Yating , Zhang Sen , Norman Justin C. , Kennedy MJ , He William , Tong Yeyu , Shang Chen , He Jian‐Jun , Tsang Hon Ki , Gossard Arthur C. , Bowers John E.
Published: February 2020

Wavelength tunable lasers are increasingly needed as key components for wavelength resource management technologies in future dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) systems. While material systems with multiple quantum wells as an active region are widely used in long‐wavelength tunable lasers, the unique advantages of InAs/GaAs quantum dots (QDs) for low‐power operation, excellent thermal stability, and wide spectral bandwidth may open a new avenue in this field. Combining the advantages of QDs with a special designed half‐wave coupled cavity structure, directly modulated, single‐mode, tunable InAs/GaAs QD lasers are demonstrated at 1.3 µm wavelength range. The half‐wave coupler provides an active–active coupled‐cavity tunable structure without involving gratings or multiple epitaxial growths, producing synchronous power transfer in the two output waveguides and high single‐mode selectivity. 27‐channel wavelength switching is achieved with side‐mode‐suppression‐ratio of around 35 dB. Under continuous‐wave electrical injection, over 9 mW output power can be measured with 716 kHz Lorentzian linewidth, 4 GHz 3‐dB bandwidth, and 8 Gbit s−1 non‐return‐to‐zero signal modulation by directly probing the chip.
On exact controllability of semilinear systems
Authors: Bashirov Agamirza E.
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we suggest a proof method for the exact controllability of semilinear systems. Previously, it was applied in the context of the approximate controllability. In comparison to the traditional proof methods, the suggested method is easy because it does not require heavy estimations. Also, it is effective because it does not need some unnatural conditions, which are required for application of fixed‐point theorems. Using these advantages of the suggested method, we prove that a semilinear system in a Hilbert space, which satisfies general conditions for the existence of its solution, steers any initial state to any final state from the domain of the system operator if its linear part is exactly controllable at every noninitial time moment, the nonlinear term is bounded, and the norm of the inverse of the Gramian increases as time goes to zero not faster than the reciprocal function. The obtained result is demonstrated on examples.
Use of Physiologically Based Kinetic Modeling to Predict Rat Gut Microbial Metabolism of the Isoflavone Daidzein to S‐Equol and Its Consequences for ERα Activation
Authors: Wang Qianrui , Spenkelink Bert , Boonpawa Rungnapa , Rietjens Ivonne M. C. M. , Beekmann Karsten
Published: February 2020

Scope

To predict gut microbial metabolism of xenobiotics and the resulting plasma concentrations of metabolites formed, an in vitro–in silico‐based testing strategy is developed using the isoflavone daidzein and its gut microbial metabolite S‐equol as model compounds.

Methods and results

Anaerobic rat fecal incubations are optimized and performed to derive the apparent maximum velocities (Vmax) and Michaelis–Menten constants (Km) for gut microbial conversion of daidzein to dihydrodaidzein, S‐equol, and O‐desmethylangolensin, which are input as parameters for a physiologically based kinetic (PBK) model. The inclusion of gut microbiota in the PBK model allows prediction of S‐equol concentrations and slightly reduced predicted maximal daidzein concentrations from 2.19 to 2.16 µm. The resulting predicted concentrations of daidzein and S‐equol are comparable to in vivo concentrations reported.

Conclusion

The optimized in vitro approach to quantify kinetics for gut microbial conversions, and the newly developed PBK model for rats that includes gut microbial metabolism, provide a unique tool to predict the in vivo consequences of daidzein microbial metabolism for systemic exposure of the host to daidzein and its metabolite S‐equol. The predictions reveal a dominant role for daidzein in ERα‐mediated estrogenicity despite the higher estrogenic potency of its microbial metabolite S‐equol.
Technical Note: A fast inverse direct aperture optimization algorithm for volumetric‐modulated arc therapy
Authors: MacFarlane Michael , Hoover Douglas A. , Wong Eugene , Battista Jerry J. , Chen Jeff Z.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

In a recent article, our group proposed a fast direct aperture optimization (DAO) algorithm for fixed‐gantry intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) called fast inverse direct aperture optimization (FIDAO). When tested on fixed‐gantry IMRT plans, we observed up to a 200‐fold increase in the optimization speed. Compared to IMRT, rotational volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is a much larger optimization problem and has many more delivery constraints. The purpose of this work is to extend and evaluate FIDAO for inverse planning of VMAT plans.

Methods

A prototype FIDAO algorithm for VMAT treatment planning was developed in MATLAB using the open‐source treatment planning toolkit matRad (v2.2 dev_VMAT build). VMAT treatment plans using one 3600 arc were generated on the AAPM TG‐119 phantom, as well as sample clinical liver and prostate cases. The plans were created by first performing fluence map optimization on 28° equispaced beams, followed by aperture sequencing and arc sequencing with a gantry angular sampling rate of 4°. After arc sequencing, a copy of the plan underwent DAO using the prototype FIDAO algorithm, while another copy of the plan underwent DAO using matRad's DAO method, which served as the conventional algorithm.

Results

Both algorithms achieved similar plan quality, although the FIDAO plans had considerably fewer hot spots in the unspecified normal tissue. The optimization time (number of iterations) for FIDAO and the conventional DAO algorithm, respectively, were: 65 s (245) vs 602 s (275) in the TG‐119 phantom case; 25 s (85) vs 803 s (159) in the liver case; and 99 s (174) vs 754 s (149) in the prostate case.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated promising speed enhancements in using FIDAO for the direct aperture optimization of VMAT plans.
Adenosine accumulation causes metabolic disorders in testes and associates with lower testosterone level in obese mice
Authors: Yang Xiao , Zhao Yang , Sun Qi , Yang Yunxia , Gao Yan , Ge Wenhao , Liu Junhao , Xu Xi , Zhang Jianfa
Published: February 2020

Overweight and obese men face numerous health problems, including type 2 diabetes, subfertility, and even infertility. However, few studies have focused on the effects of nutritional status and obesity‐related regulatory signals on fertility deficiency. Our previous observations have shown that the elevation of plasma 5'‐adenosine monophosphate (5'‐AMP) and the accumulation of adenosine in liver and muscle of obese diabetic db/db mice are related to insulin resistance. Here, we found that adenosine accumulation in testis is a common marker of both genetic obesity and high‐fat‐diet induced obese mice. An messenger RNA sequencing analysis indicated that 78 upregulated genes and 155 downregulated genes in the testis of 5'‐AMP‐treated mice overlapped with the same genes in the testis of ob/ob mice, and these genes belonged to the clusters of steroid metabolic process and regulation of hormone levels, respectively. Serum testosterone was reduced in ob/ob and 5'‐AMP‐treated mice. Metabolomic analysis based on 1H nuclear magnetic resonance showed that the testicular metabolic profiles of ob/ob mice were similar to those of 5'‐AMP treated mice. Exogenous 5'‐AMP inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin signal transduction and reduced the proliferating cell nuclear antigen expressions in testes. Our results suggest that the accumulation of adenosine causes metabolic disorders in testes and associates lower testosterone level in obese mice.
Experiences of physical activity and exercise in individuals with systemic sclerosis: A qualitative study
Authors: Pettersson Henrik , Nordin Annica , Svenungsson Elisabet , Alexanderson Helene , Boström Carina
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Exercise is emerging as an important part of the treatment in systemic sclerosis‐patients with no‐mild lung involvement. However, it has not been studied how patients experience physical activity and exercises. We thus explored and described experiences of physical activity/exercises in systemic sclerosis‐individuals.

Method

Sixteen systemic sclerosis‐patients were purposefully recruited to represent variation in gender, age, and lung disease. Semi‐structured individual interviews were performed, transcribed and analyzed with qualitative content analysis.

Results

Three themes (categories) emerged: 1) Essential for life and health (An effective treatment, Reduces fear of deterioration, and Feeling healthy and satisfied with oneself); 2) Disease‐related hinders and other barriers (Disease consequences, Risk of worsening, and Non‐disease related barriers); and 3) Self‐care and/or support (Self‐confidence in physical activity/exercise, and, Education and support from healthcare and other).

Conclusions

Physical activity/exercises were experienced as essential for life and health and as an effective treatment. It reduced fear of deterioration and made the participants feel healthy and satisfied with oneself. However, participants also experienced disease‐related barriers like shortness of breath and pain, and they expressed a risk of worsening. Participants felt confidence in their physical activity/exercises and expressed that education and support from healthcare could be facilitating. Our findings add new knowledge about how systemic sclerosis‐patients perceive physical activity/exercise and can contribute to the development of patient education and PA/exercise programs.
Influence of body position on dynamics of the pelvic floor measured with transperineal ultrasound imaging in men
Authors: Cowley David , Stafford Ryan E. , Hodges Paul W.
Published: February 2020

Aims

This paper aims to evaluate the feasibility of transperineal ultrasound imaging (TPUS) for visualizing the motion of pelvic landmarks associated with striated pelvic floor muscle contraction in men in standing; to compare the locations of pelvic landmarks between sitting and standing; and to compare the effects of different body positions on measures of pelvic floor muscle contraction.

Methods

Thirty‐five men awaiting prostatectomy volunteered to participate. Participants performed three repetitions of submaximal pelvic floor contraction in sitting and again in standing. Movement of pelvic landmarks with contraction was recorded using an ultrasound imaging transducer placed on the perineum.

Results

The feasibility of TPUS in men in standing was demonstrated through the visualization of three out of four pelvic landmarks in more than 95% of images in the standing position. Analysis of pelvic landmarks and their respective relationships with muscle shortening demonstrated that the anorectal junction and urethrovesical junction were lower and the estimated length of puborectalis was shorter in standing than sitting. The mid‐urethra (striated urethral sphincter) and anorectal junction (puborectalis) landmark displaced further cranially in standing than sitting.

Conclusions

TPUS can be used to visualize three pelvic landmarks in men with cancerous prostates. Puborectalis is shorter at rest in standing than sitting, and elevation of the mid‐urethra and the anorectal junction is more in standing than sitting. Together these findings indicate that feedback for pelvic floor muscle training is possible in both positions, but the position needs to be standardized for a comparative assessment.
Application of different bark fractions in polypropylene composites: UV and thermal stability
Authors: Peng Yao , Nair Sandeep S. , Chen Heyu , Farnood Ramin , Yan Ning , Cao Jinzhen
Published: February 2020

For the comprehensive and value‐added utilization of bark, different fractions such as bark extractives (BE), bark fibers (BF), micron‐sized unbleached cellulose particles (UBCP), and bleached cellulose particles (BCP) were produced from western red cedar (Thuja plicata) bark. These fractions were melt compounded with polypropylene (PP) to make composites. The presence of lignin in UBCP significantly increased composite thermal stability. The addition of UBCP and BE alleviated the photodegradation of composites, increasing the UV stability. However, the addition of BCP accelerated the UV weathering process. The antioxidation and heat‐insulating properties of lignin in UBCP were confirmed in this study.
Measuring group and individual relationship between patterns in sedentary behaviour and glucose in type 2 diabetes adults
Authors: McMillan Kathryn A , Paing Aye C , Kirk Alison F , Hewitt Allan , MacRury Sandra , Collier Andrew , Chastin Sebastien FM
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between patterns in sedentary behaviour and glucose in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Thirty‐seven adults with type 2 diabetes managed with diet and/or anti‐diabetes medication (not insulin) were recruited. Participants wore an activPAL accelerometer and FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitor for continuous measurement of activity and glucose for 24 hours/day for three to 14 days while documenting sleep, food and medication. The relationship between daily patterns of sedentary behaviour and sedentary breaks with glucose was investigated using correlation analysis. Regression analysis was used to investigate these relationships at an individual level.

Participants (mean age 62.8±10.5 years, BMI 29.6±6.8kg/m2) spent 64% of their day sedentary, 44.7% of sedentary bouts were 30–60 minutes in duration and mean bout duration was 47.2 minutes. No association between mean glucose and sedentary proportion (total sedentary time) was identified. Mean glucose and glucose standard deviation were positively correlated with sedentary bout duration (both p<0.05). Individual regression analysis showed increased sedentary time is associated with increased mean glucose in 25 (68%) of the participants, with a negative association being shown in 12 (32%) of the participants.

In analysis of the whole group, sedentary bout duration but not sedentary proportion was associated with mean glucose and glucose variability. Individual regression analysis identified a different relationship pattern for the majority of participants. This is the first study to identify an individualised response to activity behaviour and highlights the importance of conducting individual analysis when using continuous measurement methods.
Equilibria in Personality States: A Conceptual Primer for Dynamics in Personality States
Authors: Danvers Alexander F. , Wundrack Richard , Mehl Matthias
Published: February 2020

We provide a basic, step–by–step introduction to the core concepts and mathematical fundamentals of dynamic systems modelling through applying the Change as Outcome model, a simple dynamical systems model, to personality state data. This model characterizes changes in personality states with respect to equilibrium points, estimating attractors and their strength in time series data. Using data from the Personality and Interpersonal Roles study, we find that mean state is highly correlated with attractor position but weakly correlated with attractor strength, suggesting strength provides added information not captured by summaries of the distribution. We then discuss how taking a dynamic systems approach to personality states also entails a theoretical shift. Instead of emphasizing partitioning trait and state variance, dynamic systems analyses of personality states emphasize characterizing patterns generated by mutual, ongoing interactions. Change as Outcome modelling also allows for estimating nuanced effects of personality development after significant life changes, separating effects on characteristic states after the significant change and how strongly she or he is drawn towards those states (an aspect of resiliency). Estimating this model demonstrates core dynamics principles and provides quantitative grounding for measures of ‘repulsive’ personality states and ‘ambivert’ personality structures. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Physical background of the endurance limit in poly(ether ether ketone)
Authors: Pastukhov Leonid V. , Kanters Marc J. W. , Engels Tom A. P. , Govaert Leon E.
Published: February 2020

In this study, it is demonstrated that the apparent endurance (fatigue) limit for plasticity‐controlled failure in poly(ether ether ketone) is related to an evolution of the yield stress. The increase of the yield stress has two separate causes: (a) stress‐ and temperature‐accelerated physical aging of the amorphous phase and (b) strain hardening as a result of texture development. Yield stress evolution is monitored using thermomechanical treatments during which the material is exposed to temperature and load. The combined contributions of both temperature and applied stress to yield stress evolution (below T
g) can be effectively modeled using an effective time approach employing an Arrhenius temperature‐activation as well as Eyring stress activation. Combination of the yield stress evolution with a previously developed model for plasticity‐controlled failure allows prediction of time‐to‐failure under both static and cyclic load, quantitatively capturing the observed apparent endurance limit.
The impact of [1,2,5]chalcogenazolo[3,4‐f]‐benzo[1,2,3]triazole structure on the optoelectronic properties of conjugated polymers
Authors: Alkan Ecem Aydan , Goker Seza , Sarigul Hatice , Yıldırım Erol , Udum Yasemin Arslan , Toppare Levent
Published: February 2020

Two novel conjugated near‐infrared (NIR) absorbing donor–acceptor type copolymers comprising benzodithiophene as the donor and [1,2,5]chalcogenazolo[3,4‐f]‐benzo[1,2,3]triazole derivatives as the acceptors, spaced with thiophene as the π‐bridge, were designed and synthesized via Stille polycondensation reaction. The effect of acceptor strength on optoelectronic properties was targeted and investigated. Branched alkyl chains (the extended 2‐octyl‐1‐dodecyl alkyl chain; C8C12) were introduced to 5H‐[1,2,3]triazolo[4′,5′:4,5]benzo[1,2‐c][1,2,5]thiadiazole and 5H‐[1,2,3]triazolo[4′,5′:4,5]benzo[1,2‐c][1,2,5]selenadiazole for enhanced solubility of polymers which ease the processability hence device constructions. The strongly electron‐withdrawing units lead to a substantial change in the absorption properties via promotion of the intramolecular charge transfer band alongside the π–π* transition. The resultant soluble polymers were characterized via cyclic voltammetry to determine highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy levels as −5.00 and −3.92 eV for PSBT and −4.86 and −4.04 eV for PSeBT, respectively. Electronic band gaps of the copolymers were calculated as 1.08 eV for PSBT and 0.82 eV for PSeBT, respectively. NIR absorbing copolymers were used to construct electrochromic devices.
Understanding and information needs of cancer patients regarding treatment‐focused genomic testing: A systematic review
Authors: Wolyniec Kamil , Sharp Jessica , Lazarakis Smaro , Mileshkin Linda , Schofield Penelope
Published: February 2020

Objective

To systematically review literature exploring experiences of cancer patients regarding their understanding of treatment‐focused genomic testing as well as their information needs and related themes.

Methods

Six databases were searched for the original studies published in English language that explored patients' understanding of the information related to the genomic testing and its implications for treatment of cancer. The Mixed‐Method Assessement Tool was used to examine the methodological quality of selected articles.

Results

There were 14 studies (5 qualitative and 9 quantitative) that met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The majority of studies revealed that a considerable proportion of cancer patients lacked good undertstanding of treatment‐focused genomic testing and wanted to be better informed. Some of the factors associated with poor knowledge about genomic testing were low education, older age, low income, and unemployment.

The majority of people with cancer preferred face‐to‐face communication with their oncologists to discuss and ask questions about genomic testing and treatment. Most also wanted to receive simple, easy to understand written information about treatment‐focused genomic testing.

Conclusions

Genomic testing and its implications for treatment emerge as an important aspect of health care across different types of cancer. The evidence indicates that cancer patients want to understand and be well informed about treatment‐focused genomic testing in order to be part of decision‐making process. Further studies addressing ways to improve cancer patients' understanding and knowledge of genomic testing are needed.
Infrared Absorption Study of a Dihydrogen Complex in Anatase TiO2
Authors: Lavrov Eduard V. , Chaplygin Igor , Herklotz Frank
Published: February 2020

An infrared absorption study of natural anatase TiO2 is performed. A complex with absorption lines at 3355.9 and 3357.3 cm−1 is shown to consist of at least two equivalent hydrogen atoms, whereby these features are due to the stretch local vibrational modes of two OH bonds located in the basal plane of the anatase crystal, forming an angle of approximately 90°. The complex is shown to be electrically active with a level in the upper part of the bandgap. The microscopic model of the defect is discussed.
Natural products for the prevention and treatment of cholestasis: A review
Authors: Ma Xiao , Jiang Yinxiao , Zhang Wenwen , Wang Jiabo , Wang Ruilin , Wang Lifu , Wei Shizhang , Wen Jianxia , Li Haotian , Zhao Yanling
Published: February 2020

Cholestasis is a common manifestation of decreased bile flow in various liver diseases. It results in fibrosis and even cirrhosis without proper treatment. It is believed that a wide range of factors, including transporter dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammatory damage, and immune disruption, can cause cholestasis. In recent years, natural products have drawn much attention for specific multiple‐target activities in diseases. Many attempts have been made to investigate the anticholestatic effects of natural products with advanced technology. This review summarizes recent studies on the biological activities and mechanisms of recognized compounds for cholestasis treatment. Natural products, including various flavonoids, phenols, acids, quinones, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, and so on, function as comprehensive regulators via ameliorating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, restoring bile acid balance with hepatic transporters, and adjusting immune disruption. Moreover, in this progress, nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2, reactive oxygen species production, heme oxygenase‐1, NF‐κB, cholesterol 7 alpha‐hydroxylase, and farnesoid X receptors are thought as main targets for the activity of natural products. Therefore, this review presents the detailed mechanisms that include multiple targets and diverse signalling pathways. Natural products are the valuable when seeking novel therapeutic agents to treat cholestatic liver diseases.
The dependence of mountain wave reflection on the abruptness of atmospheric profile variations
Authors: Teixeira M. A. C. , Argaín J. L.
Published: February 2020

It is known from geometric optics that a change in refractive index is potentially reflective if it occurs over scales much smaller than the wavelength of the incident waves. The limitations of this assumption for hydrostatic orographic gravity waves are tested here using linear theory and a method recently developed by the authors to evaluate the reflection coefficient, based on the wave drag. Two atmospheric profiles optimally suited to this method are adopted, the first with piecewise constant static stability (representative of a tropopause), and the second with constant wind speed near the surface, and a linearly decreasing wind aloft below a critical level (relevant to downslope windstorms). Both profiles consist of two atmospheric layers separated by a transition layer with controllable thickness, where the parameters vary continuously. The variation of the reflection coefficient between its maximum (for a zero‐thickness transition layer) and zero, as the ratio of the thickness of the transition layer to the vertical wavelength increases, is studied systematically. The reflection coefficient attains half of its maximum for a value of this ratio of about 0.3, but its exact variation depends on the jump in static stability between the two layers in the first profile, and the Richardson number at the critical level in the second. For a stronger contrast between the two layers, the reflection coefficient is larger, but also decays to zero faster for thinner transition layers. According to these results, most atmospheric profile features perceived as discontinuities are likely to have close‐to‐maximum reflection coefficients, and the variation of atmospheric parameters over a sizeable fraction of the troposphere can still lead to significant wave reflection. These results seem to hold quantitatively to a good degree of approximation in moderately nonlinear flow for the first atmospheric profile, but only qualitatively for the second one.
Making Visible Awareness in Practice: Literacy Educators in Diverse Classrooms
Authors: Smith Patriann , Karkar Tala , Varner Jessica , Nigam Anita , Finch Beverly
Published: February 2020

Teacher‐educators who are aware of differences that present themselves in diverse student populations must increasingly work to help teachers to connect with students in ways that allow them to improve literacy outcomes. Despite its potential for helping to address the needs of diverse students, awareness of culture and language often tends to be touted primarily as an expectation for teachers who work in K‐12 schools and classrooms. It is less visible as a requirement for teacher‐educators, despite the ever‐increasing need for them to have the skills and expertise to guide teachers who work with culturally and linguistically diverse students (CLDs) in underperforming schools. This study was therefore developed to show the ways in which teacher‐educators demonstrated awareness of language and culture while supporting the instructional literacy practices of in‐service teachers and the literacy learning of CLDs. More specifically, the purpose of this study was to identify the elements of critical multilingual and critical multicultural awareness displayed by three literacy educators, who were supporting students’ writing practices in diverse K‐12 literacy classrooms within a research‐practice partnership, over a period of one academic year. Findings show that the educators reflected awareness in their support for CLDs’ literacies as they experienced transitions, confronted deficit views, capitalised on verbal, visual and written scaffolds with students and teachers, and fostered authenticity. The study presents implications for literacy educators who wish to reflect awareness when responding to CLDs' literacies in schools.
Robotic weed control using automated weed and crop classification
Authors: Wu Xiaolong , Aravecchia Stéphanie , Lottes Philipp , Stachniss Cyrill , Pradalier Cédric
Published: February 2020

Autonomous robotic weeding systems in precision farming have demonstrated their full potential to alleviate the current dependency on agrochemicals such as herbicides and pesticides, thus reducing environmental pollution and improving sustainability. However, most previous works require fast and constant‐time weed detection systems to achieve real‐time treatment, which forecloses the implementation of more capable but time‐consuming algorithms, for example, learning‐based methods. In this paper, a nonoverlapping multicamera system is applied to provide flexibility for the weed control system in dealing with the indeterminate classification delays. The design, implementation, and testing of our proposed modular weed control unit with mechanical and chemical weeding tools are presented. A framework that performs naive Bayes filtering, 3D direct intra‐ and inter‐camera visual tracking, and predictive control, while integrating state‐of‐the‐art crop/weed detection algorithms, is developed to guide the tools to achieve high‐precision weed removal. The experimental results show that our proposed fully operational weed control system is capable of performing selective mechanical as well as chemical in‐row weeding with indeterminate detection delays in different terrain conditions and crop growth stages.
Judiciously 3‐partitioning 3‐uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Spink Hunter , Tiba Marius
Published: February 2020

Bollobás, Reed, and Thomason proved every 3‐uniform hypergraph ℋ with m edges has a vertex‐partition V()=V1⊔V2⊔V3 such that each part meets at least edges, later improved to 0.6m by Halsegrave and improved asymptotically to 0.65m+o(m) by Ma and Yu. We improve this asymptotic bound to , which is best possible up to the error term, resolving a special case of a conjecture of Bollobás and Scott.
Aren't we all pursuing societal goals in our businesses? Defining “societal purpose” as pursued by social enterprises
Authors: Lambooy Tineke , Anthoni Pjotr , Argyrou Aikaterini
Published: February 2020

Social enterprises demonstrate how sustainability can be embedded into business. This often implies selecting a legal form and a business model dedicated to serving social and environmental (societal) objectives. Tailor‐made legal frameworks for social enterprises in European Union (EU) Member States require that the social enterprise include a “societal purpose” in its constitutional documents. These legal frameworks refer to “societal purpose” in a general way; the wording is similar but not identical. The EU Regulation on Social Impact Funds and the EU Procurement Directive contain provisions that relate to social enterprises and they also refer to “societal purpose,” although neither of them defines the term. Some EU countries have not (yet) adopted tailor‐made legislation. Their legislators have indicated that they struggle with demarcating the notion of “societal purpose". This article aims to support them as well as EU legislators by testing the concept of “societal purpose” in two ways. A doctrinal research was conducted in order to find a legal basis for explaining what “societal purpose” entails in the United Kingdom (UK) and the Netherlands. In the UK, the legal framework concerning the “Community Interest Company” was examined. In the Netherlands, which jurisdiction has not introduced a tailor‐made legal framework for social enterprises, the existing tax legal framework for organisations with a “public benefit purpose” was analysed in the evaluation. Second, an empirical study was conducted into the societal purpose of 400 randomly selected UK and Dutch social enterprises. The results were categorised, compared with each other, and evaluated on the basis of existing legal frameworks.
Metal–Organic Frameworks for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Yang Jie , Yang Ying‐Wei
Published: February 2020

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are an interesting and useful class of coordination polymers, constructed from metal ion/cluster nodes and functional organic ligands through coordination bonds, and have attracted extensive research interest during the past decades. Due to the unique features of diverse compositions, facile synthesis, easy surface functionalization, high surface areas, adjustable porosity, and tunable biocompatibility, MOFs have been widely used in hydrogen/methane storage, catalysis, biological imaging and sensing, drug delivery, desalination, gas separation, magnetic and electronic devices, nonlinear optics, water vapor capture, etc. Notably, with the rapid development of synthetic methods and surface functionalization strategies, smart MOF‐based nanocomposites with advanced bio‐related properties have been designed and fabricated to meet the growing demands of MOF materials for biomedical applications. This work outlines the synthesis and functionalization and the recent advances of MOFs in biomedical fields, including cargo (drugs, nucleic acids, proteins, and dyes) delivery for cancer therapy, bioimaging, antimicrobial, biosensing, and biocatalysis. The prospects and challenges in the field of MOF‐based biomedical materials are also discussed.
An Experimental and Numerical Study of the Free Surface in an Uphill Teeming Ingot Casting Process
Authors: Yin Jun , Guo Shuo , Ersson Mikael , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: February 2020

The generation of nonmetallic inclusions due to mold flux entrapment is detrimental for the final steel quality in the uphill teeming process. Herein, physical and mathematical modeling using a full‐scale mold is conducted to investigate the change of the hump height and the surface height at the free surface during filling. Moreover, the Weber number is also studied to analyze the tendency of mold flux entrapment at the free surface. The results show that the Reynolds stress model can predict the hump height more accurately compared with the k − ε‐based turbulence models. In addition, the result shows that a lower filling rate can result in a lower hump height as well as less fluctuations of the hump and surface heights. Furthermore, the Weber number for the low flow rate case is lower than 12.3, which indicates a small or no risk for mold flux entrapment. The present findings suggest that a reduction in velocity in the mold entrance region are an effective means of reducing the risk of mold flux entrapment.
Ermüdung von Verbunddübelleisten – experimentelle Untersuchungen
Authors: Christou Georgios , Ungermann Jan , Wolters Kevin , Hegger Josef , Claßen Martin
Published: February 2020

Verbunddübelleisten gewinnen im Bereich des Verbundbaus und insbesondere im Brückenbau aufgrund zahlreicher Vorteile im Vergleich zu anderen Verbundmitteln immer mehr an Bedeutung. Die schweißnahtfreie Ausführung von Verbunddübelleisten weist insbesondere unter zyklischen Beanspruchungen ein deutlich gutmütigeres Tragverhalten als bspw. konventionelle Kopfbolzen auf. Das zyklische Tragverhalten wird dabei maßgeblich durch die kontinuierliche Veränderung der Eigenschaften in der Verbundfuge charakterisiert. Die Degradation der Verbindung zwischen Stahl und Beton über die Lebensdauer und der daraus resultierende Schlupf der zuvor nahezu starren Verbindung führen zu Umlagerungen von Schnittgrößen zwischen den Verbundpartnern, die das Tragverhalten der Konstruktion verändern. Zudem kann ein Ermüdungsversagen der Verbundfuge, entweder in Form von Ermüdungsrissen im Stahlzahn oder in Form von Betonversagen, bei dem die zunehmende Schädigung des Betons vor der Stahlleiste sowohl in einer signifikanten Schlupfentwicklung als auch in einem zyklischen Ausstanzversagen resultieren kann, auftreten. In diesem Beitrag werden Ergebnisse zyklischer Abscherversuche vorgestellt, in denen unterschiedliche Einflussgrößen auf das Ermüdungsverhalten von Verbunddübelleisten untersucht wurden. Durch die hieraus gewonnenen Erkenntnisse konnten Zusammenhänge zwischen dem Tragverhalten der Verbundmittel unter zyklischer Beanspruchung und verschiedenen last‐ und materialabhängigen Einflussgrößen abgeleitet werden.