bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exceptional Disparity in Australian Agamid Lizards is a Possible Result of Arrival into Vacant Niche
Authors: Gray Jaimi A. , Hutchinson Mark N. , Jones Marc E.H.
Published: February 2019

Australia provides abundant examples of continental‐scale evolutionary radiations. The collision of two continental shelves around 30 Ma facilitated an influx of squamates and the subsequent squamate radiations resulted in high taxonomic diversity. The morphological disparity seen in these major squamate groups, however, remains underexplored. Here, we examine the major cranial proportions of over 1,000 specimens using 2D linear measurements to explicitly quantify the morphological disparity of Australian agamid lizards (Amphibolurinae) and compare it to that of agamid, acrodont, and iguanian clades from other parts of the world. Our results indicate the Australian Amphibolurinae have exceptionally high cranial disparity, and we suggest that this is linked to the relaxed selective environment that greeted the founders of Amphibolurinae when they first arrived in Australia. Anat Rec, 302:1536–1543, 2019. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Do citation chimeras exist? The case of under‐cited influential articles suffering delayed recognition
Authors: Hu Xiaojun , Rousseau Ronald
Published: February 2019

In this study we investigate if articles suffering delayed recognition can at the same time be under‐cited influential articles. Theoretically these two types of articles are independent, in the sense that suffering delayed recognition depends on the number and time distribution of received citations, while being an under‐cited influential article depends only partially on the number of received (first generation) citations, and much more on second and third citation generations. Among 49 articles suffering delayed recognition we found 13 that are also under‐cited influential. Based on a thorough investigation of these special cases we found that so‐called authoritative citers play an important role in uniting the two different document types into a special citation chimera. Our investigation contributes to the classification of publications.
Practical stability analysis of sliding‐mode control with explicit computation of sampling time
Authors: Osinenko Pavel , Devadze Grigory , Streif Stefan
Published: February 2019

Sliding‐mode control is a wide‐spread approach to a number of practical problems. The classical stability analyses of sliding‐mode control had to face the difficulty of defining a trajectory of a system whose dynamics are discontinuous in the state variable. Different generalizations of the system trajectory were suggested, such as Filippov solutions. Another generalization is based on the sample‐and‐hold framework, where the system dynamics are in continuous time and the control is changed only at certain discrete times. The current work addresses the sample‐and‐hold stability analysis of sliding‐mode control with special attention to an explicit computation of the required controller sampling time. A computational example is provided.
Log‐symmetric regression models: information criteria and application to movie business and industry data with economic implications
Authors: Ventura Marcelo , Saulo Helton , Leiva Victor , Monsueto Sandro
Published: February 2019

This work deals with log‐symmetric regression models, which are particularly useful when the response variable is continuous, strictly positive, and following an asymmetric distribution, with the possibility of modeling atypical observations by means of robust estimation. In these regression models, the distribution of the random errors is a member of the log‐symmetric family, which is composed by the log‐contaminated‐normal, log‐hyperbolic, log‐normal, log‐power‐exponential, log‐slash and log‐Student‐tdistributions, among others. One way to select the best family member in log‐symmetric regression models is using information criteria. In this paper, we formulate log‐symmetric regression models and conduct a Monte Carlo simulation study to investigate the accuracy of popular information criteria, as Akaike, Bayesian, and Hannan‐Quinn, and their respective corrected versions to choose adequate log‐symmetric regressions models. As a business application, a movie data set assembled by authors is analyzed to compare and obtain the best possible log‐symmetric regression model for box offices. The results provide relevant information for model selection criteria in log‐symmetric regressions and for the movie industry. Economic implications of our study are discussed after the numerical illustrations.
Imperfect repair in degradation processes: A Kijima‐type approach
Authors: Kahle Waltraud
Published: February 2019

We consider a Wiener process with linear drift for degradation modeling. Regularly, maintenance actions are carried out which produce a reduction of the degradation level. In this paper, we consider the influence of such maintenance actions to the further development of the degradation process and the resulting lifetime distribution. A connection between virtual age in Kijima‐type models and degradation level in the underlying degradation process is developed. Furthermore, estimators for the process parameters as well as for the degree of repair are developed.
Chemical composition of post‐AGB star candidates
Authors: Molina R. E. , Pereira C. B. , Arellano Ferro A.
Published: February 2019

We present a high‐resolution detailed abundance analysis for a sample of six post‐Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) candidate stars, five of them had not been studied spectroscopically in the optical region. All the analyzed objects are IRAS sources identified as possible post‐AGB on the two‐color Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) diagram. We find three objects with clear signs of evolved stars; IRAS 05338 − 3051 shows abundances similar to the RV Tauri V453 Oph; the lower‐luminosity stars IRAS 18025 − 3906 are O‐rich without s‐process enrichment and IRAS 18386 − 1253 shows a moderate selective depletion of refractory elements generally seen in post‐AGB stars (PAGBs), which show midinfrared excess; they may evolve post‐Red Giant Branch (RGB) objects, in which case these would be the first Galactic counterparts of post‐RGB objects observed in the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds (Kamath et al. , ). On the other hand, IRAS 02528 + 4350 seems to be a moderately metal‐poor young object and IRAS 20259 + 4206 also seems to be a young object showing carbon deficiency; however, an analysis with better spectra might be in order to clarify its evolutionary state. Finally, our abundance calculations for the binary PAGB IRAS 17279 − 1119 are found in good agreement with those of De Smedt et al. ().
Magnetic helicity and fluxes in an inhomogeneous α2 dynamo
Authors: Brandenburg A.
Published: February 2019

Much work on turbulent three‐dimensional dynamos has been done using triply periodic domains, in which there are no magnetic helicity fluxes. Here, we present simulations where the turbulent intensity is still nearly homogeneous, but now there is a perfect conductor boundary condition on one end and a vertical field or pseudovacuum conditions on the other. This leads to migratory dynamo waves. Good agreement with a corresponding analytically solvable α2 dynamo is found. Magnetic helicity fluxes are studied in both types of models. It is found that at moderate magnetic Reynolds numbers, most of the magnetic helicity losses occur on large scales. Whether this changes at even larger magnetic Reynolds numbers, as required for alleviating the catastrophic dynamo quenching problem, remains still
unclear.
LC–MS/MS method for simultaneous determination of ramelteon and its metabolite M‐II in human plasma: Application to a clinical pharmacokinetic study in healthy Chinese volunteers
Authors: Zhu Yantong , Yu Haitao , Li Tengfei , Li Duo , Ding Li , Shu Chang
Published: February 2019

A sensitive liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of ramelteon and its active metabolite M‐II in human plasma. After extraction from 200 μL of plasma by protein precipitation, the analytes and internal standard (IS) diazepam were separated on a Hedera ODS‐2 (5 μm, 150 × 2.1 mm) column with a mobile phase consisted of methanol–0.1% formic acid in 10 mm ammonium acetate solution (85:15, v/v) delivered at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min. Mass spectrometric detection was operated in positive multiple reaction monitoring mode. The calibration curves were linear over the concentration range of 0.0500–30.0 ng/mL for ramelteon and 1.00–250 ng/mL for M‐II, respectively. This method was successfully applied to a clinical pharmacokinetic study in healthy Chinese volunteers after a single oral administration of ramelteon. The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), the time to the Cmax and the elimination half‐life for ramelteon were 4.50 ± 4.64ng/mL, 0.8 ± 0.4h and 1.0 ± 0.9 h, respectively, and for M‐II were 136 ± 36 ng/mL, 1.1 ± 0.5 h, 2.1 ± 0.4 h, respectively.
Evaluation of a cognitive‐behavioral intervention for high‐ and medium‐risk probationers
Authors: Kosson David S. , Walsh Zach , Anderson John R. , Brook Michael , Swogger Marc T. , Verborg Robert
Published: February 2019

Reducing recidivism is a central goal of treatment programs for offenders. Preliminary evidence suggests that cognitive‐behavioral group interventions based on the National Institute of Corrections curriculum (Bush, Glick, & Taymans, 1997) may be effective in reducing recidivism rates among adult probationers. We evaluated the effectiveness of a program based on this curriculum among 167 high‐ and medium‐risk probationers assigned to this program and a comparison group of 120 high‐ and medium‐risk probationers matched on age and number of prior criminal charges. Improvements over prior studies included use of survival analytic methods and propensity score matching, a longer follow‐up interval, and examination of treatment effectiveness within ethnic groups. Relative to the comparison group, treatment group probationers were more likely to complete probation satisfactorily and survive longer before rearrest. Moreover, supplementary analyses suggested that ethnicity was associated with differences in intervention effectiveness. Treatment was predictive of lower recidivism rates among European Americans and African Americans but was less effective among Latino American probationers.
Upregulated LncRNA‐CCAT1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by functioning as miR‐30c‐2‐3p sponge
Authors: Zhang Jie , Cai Min , Jiang Dawei , Xu Liu
Published: February 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer‐related death over the world. It is well studied that long noncoding RNA colon cancer–associated transcript‐1 (CCAT1) played important roles in variety of cancers promoting cell proliferation and metastasis by acting as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of microRNAs. However, whether CCAT1 could regulate HCC by serving as a ceRNA of microRNA remains to be revealed. In this study, we demonstrated that CCAT1 was highly expressed in HCC tissues and remarkably associated with metastasis. With a bioinformatics prediction and functional assay validation, we found a binding site of miR‐30c‐2‐3p on CCAT1, which was important for CCAT1 to promote cell proliferation. Interestingly, we further revealed a novel recognition site for miR‐30c‐2‐3p on the 3′UTR of CCNE1 by mutative method, luciferase assay, and cell viability confirmation. In general, CCAT1 regulate the expression of CCNE1 by acting as a ceRNA to sponge miR‐30c‐2‐3p in regulating the cell proliferation of HCC. These results suggest that CCAT1 may be a new therapy target for HCC in the future.

Significance of the study

Our findings may broaden the understanding of the role of CCAT1 in tumorigenesis and may provide a new therapy target for HCC.
U2AF65 enhances milk synthesis and growth of bovine mammary epithelial cells by positively regulating the mTOR‐SREBP‐1c signalling pathway
Authors: Yu Yanbo , Zhen Zhen , Qi Hao , Yuan Xiaohan , Gao Xuejun , Zhang Minghui
Published: February 2019

U2 snRNP auxiliary factor 65 kDa (U2AF65) is a splicing factor that promotes prespliceosome assembly. The function of U2AF65 in alternative splicing has been identified; however, the essential physiological role of U2AF65 remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the regulatory role of U2AF65 in milk synthesis and growth of bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs). Our results showed that U2AF65 localizes in the nucleus. Treatment with amino acids (Met and Leu) and hormones (prolactin and β‐estradiol) upregulated the expression of U2AF65 in these cells. U2AF65 overexpression increased the synthesis of β‐casein, triglycerides, and lactose; increased cell viability; and promoted proliferation of BMECs. Furthermore, our results showed that U2AF65 positively regulated mTOR phosphorylation and expression of mature mRNA of mTOR and SREBP‐1c. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that U2AF65 regulates the mRNA expression of signalling molecules (mTOR and SREBP‐1c) involved in milk synthesis and growth of BMECs, possibly via controlling the splicing and maturation of these mRNAs. U2 snRNP auxiliary factor 65 kDa (U2AF65) is a splicing factor that promotes prespliceosome assembly. The essential physiological role of U2AF65 remains poorly understood. In the present study, we confirmed that U2AF65 functions as a positive regulator of milk synthesis in and proliferation of bovine mammary epithelial cells via the mTOR‐SREBP‐1c signalling pathway. Therefore, our study uncovers the regulatory role of U2AF65 in milk synthesis and cell proliferation.
Tetrazine‐Triggered Release of Carboxylic‐Acid‐Containing Molecules for Activation of an Anti‐inflammatory Drug
Authors: Davies Sarah , Qiao Luxi , Oliveira Bruno L. , Navo Claudio D. , Jiménez‐Osés Gonzalo , Bernardes Gonçalo J. L.
Published: February 2019

In addition to its use for the study of biomolecules in living systems, bioorthogonal chemistry has emerged as a promising strategy to enable protein or drug activation in a spatially and temporally controlled manner. This study demonstrates the application of a bioorthogonal inverse electron‐demand Diels–Alder (iEDDA) reaction to cleave trans‐cyclooctene (TCO) and vinyl protecting groups from carboxylic acid‐containing molecules. The tetrazine‐mediated decaging reaction proceeded under biocompatible conditions with fast reaction kinetics (<2 min). The anti‐inflammatory activity of ketoprofen was successfully reinstated after decaging of the nontoxic TCOprodrug in live macrophages. Overall, this work expands the scope of functional groups and the application of decaging reactions to a new class of drugs.
Cutaneous lymphangioma circumscriptum: The relevance of clinical, dermoscopic, radiological, and histological assessments
Authors: Gomides Mabel D. A. , Costa Laís D. , Berbert Alceu L. C. V. , Janones Renata S.
Published: February 2019

Key Clinical Message

Cutaneous lymphangioma circumscriptum (CLC) is a rare congenital malformation of the superficial cutaneous lymphatic ducts. Case report: A 7‐year‐old boy presented plaque with grouped vesicles resembling a “frog spawn” on the upper left thigh, since 4 months old. The clinical, dermatoscopic and histopathological correlation is of great importance.
Recurrent prolapse of toric implantable collamer lens after blunt ocular trauma under mesopic conditions
Authors: Takagi Yuki , Nakamura Tomoaki , Ichikawa Kazuo , Kojima Takashi
Published: February 2019

Key Clinical Message

Implantable collamer lenses (ICL) carry a risk of prolapse caused by direct ocular trauma, especially in mesopic conditions and when oversized ICLs are implanted. We recommend early surgical repositioning, as well as patient education that encourages goggle use during active sports.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Cross‐Couplings and Electrophilic Aminations using Organozinc Pivalates
Authors: Lutter Ferdinand H. , Graßl Simon , Grokenberger Lucie , Hofmayer Maximilian S. , Chen Yi‐Hung , Knochel Paul
Published: February 2019

Transition metal catalyzed cross‐couplings are essential methods in organic synthesis. Due to their comparable low toxicity and price, cobalt‐salts offer a useful alternative to other common metal‐catalysts (e. g. palladium‐complexes). In this review, we report that cobalt‐catalysts are especially well suited for cross‐coupling reactions with organozinc pivalates, a class of organozinc reagents with enhanced stability towards air and moisture. Furthermore, we discuss applications of cobalt‐catalysis in Negishi cross‐coupling reactions (sp2‐sp2, sp‐sp2, sp‐sp3) as well as electrophilic aminations using organozinc reagents.
Bimetallic Co2+ and Mn2+ Hexacyanoferrate for Hydrogen Peroxide Electrooxidation and Its Application in a Highly Sensitive Cholesterol Biosensor
Authors: Antuch Manuel , Matos‐Peralta Yasser , Llanes Dayma , Echevarría Frank , Rodríguez‐Hernández Joelis , Marin Milenen Hernández , Díaz‐García Alicia M. , Reguera Leslie
Published: February 2019

In this work, we report the synthesis and characterization of a bimetallic Prussian blue analogue containing Co and Mn as outer‐sphere metals (CoMnHCF). The material was a solid solution and its characterization revealed a chemical composition of Co2.05Mn0.95[Fe(CN)6]2 ⋅ 12H2O. The electrochemistry of this novel material showed the existence of two redox waves displaying quasi‐reversible kinetics, as expressed by the larger peak‐to‐peak separation upon increasing the potential sweep rate. Interestingly, the CoMnHCF solid exhibited high electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of hydrogen peroxide, thus representing an appealing scaffold for the construction of biosensors. As a proof of concept, cholesterol oxidase was immobilized at the electrode surface by using a sol‐gel method, and the cyclic voltammograms were recorded at increasing concentrations of cholesterol. The biosensor showed a detection limit of 30 μM and two linear ranges with excellent sensitivity of 385 mA cm−2 M−1 between 50 and 150 μM, and an adequate sensitivity of 80 mA cm−2 M−1 between 150 and 1 mM. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first biosensor application of a pre‐synthesized bimetallic hexacyanometallate, thus exploiting its potential as an H2O2 electrooxidation catalyst.
Unconventional Approaches to Hydrogen Sorption Reactions: Non‐Thermal and Non‐Straightforward Thermally Driven Methods
Authors: Ares Jose‐Ramón , Nevshupa Roman , Muñoz‐Cortés Esmeralda , Sánchez Carlos , Leardini Fabrice , Ferrer Isabel‐J. , Minh Huy Tran Vo , Aguey‐Zinsou Francois , Fernández Jose‐Francisco
Published: February 2019

In the last decades, a broad family of hydrides have attracted attention as prospective hydrogen storage materials of very high gravimetric and volumetric capacity, fast H2‐sorption kinetics, environmental friendliness and economical affordability. However, constraints due to their high activation energies of the different H2‐sorption steps and the Gibbs energy of their reaction with H2 has led to the need of high thermal energy to drive H2 uptake and release. High heat leads to significant degradation effects (recrystallization, phase segregation, nanoparticles agglomeration…) of the hydrides. In this context, this short review aims to summarize alternative non‐thermal methods and non‐straightforward thermally driven methods to overcome the previous constraints. The phenomenology lying behind these methods, i. e. tribological activation, sonication, and electromagnetic radiation, and the effect of these processes on hydrogen sorption properties of hydrides are described. These non‐usual approaches could boost the capability of the next generation of solid‐hydride materials for hydrogen conversion in energy sector, in mobile devices and as hydrogen reservoirs.
Room‐Temperature Synthesis of Germanium Oxide Nanofilaments and Their Potential Use as Luminescent Self‐Cleaning Surfaces
Authors: Saddiqi Naeem‐ul‐Hasan , Patra Debabrata , Seeger Stefan
Published: February 2019

The front cover artwork is provided by the group of Prof. Stefan Seeger (University of Zurich). The image shows water droplet assisted formation of a 1D nanofilament structure composed of germanium oxide governed by droplet assisted growth and shaping droplet assisted growth and shaping method. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.201800964.
A Lifetime in Photophysics
Authors: Harriman Anthony
Published: February 2019

Anthony Harriman
is a Professor of Physical Chemistry at the School of Chemistry at Newcastle University (UK). He is a current member of the ChemPhotoChem Editorial Board.
A case of aortic valve leaflet tear and perforations after neocuspidization
Authors: Makino Masato , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Ishibashi‐Ueda Hatsue , Nakamura Yoshitsugu
Published: February 2019

Although aortic valve (AV) replacement is a curative procedure for severe aortic stenosis, prosthetic heart valves have many disadvantages and cause serious complications. A new promising surgical procedure—aortic valve neocuspidization (AVNeo)—has recently been developed; it is an original method of AV reconstruction with autologous pericardium. It has been reported to yield excellent medium‐term results with respect to durability and complications. Herein, we encountered a first case of AV leaflet tear and perforations 27 months after AVNeo using autologous pericardium. AV leaflet tear or perforation is well recognized as a long‐term serious complication of pericardial xenografts. Interestingly, however, AVNeo caused early structural valve deterioration in the current case. In the present case, an eccentric aortic regurgitation jet observed on colour flow imaging led us to reach the correct diagnosis. Finally, the patient showed complete recovery with redo AV replacement. This case highlights the importance of understanding the potential pitfalls of this new surgical technique and that of colour Doppler echocardiography in reaching a definite diagnosis.
Klotho, fibroblast growth factor‐23, and the renin–angiotensin system — an analysis from the PEACE trial
Authors: Bergmark Brian A. , Udell Jacob A. , Morrow David A. , Jarolim Petr , Kuder Julia F. , Solomon Scott D. , Pfeffer Marc A. , Braunwald Eugene , Sabatine Marc S.
Published: February 2019

Aims

Klotho, an essential co‐receptor for fibroblast growth factor (FGF)‐23, has potentially beneficial inhibitory effects on the renin–angiotensin system. Limited data exist on the prognostic value of Klotho and FGF‐23 levels in combination or their ability to predict benefit from angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition.

Methods and results

A total of 3555 patients with stable ischaemic heart disease and left ventricular ejection fraction > 40% enrolled in the PEACE trial of trandolapril vs. placebo had Klotho levels drawn at randomization. Patients were characterized by quartiles of Klotho and FGF‐23 concentrations. Six‐year Kaplan–Meier rates and adjusted risk were calculated in the placebo arm for the composite of cardiovascular (CV) death or hospitalization for heart failure and its components. Low [quartile (Q) 1–3] Klotho concentration was associated with an increased rate of CV death or hospitalization for heart failure as compared with Q4 (8.2% vs. 4.2%; P = 0.03). After multivariable adjustment for clinical variables and renal and CV biomarkers (estimated glomerular filtration rate, cystatin‐C, urine albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio, FGF‐23, high‐sensitivity troponin T, N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein), low Klotho concentration remained strongly associated with increased risk of CV death or hospitalization for heart failure [adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 2.62; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.35–5.08; P < 0.01]. The combination of low Klotho and high (Q4) FGF‐23 concentration identified patients at particularly elevated risk (adjusted HR 3.99; 95% CI 1.67–9.56; P < 0.01). This high‐risk combination additionally predicted benefit from trandolapril (HR 0.39; 95% CI 0.23–0.68; Pinteraction < 0.01).

Conclusions

Low Klotho concentration is associated with an increased risk of CV death or heart failure hospitalization in patients with stable ischaemic heart disease. The combination of low Klotho and high FGF‐23 further identifies patients at distinctly elevated risk who derive clinical benefit from the ACE‐inhibitor trandolapril.
Multi‐objective optimization of solar‐aided coal‐fired power generation system under off‐design work conditions
Authors: Wang Jianxing , Duan Liqiang , Yang Yongping , Pang Liping , Yang Laishun
Published: February 2019

Solar‐aided coal‐fired power generation (SAPG) has been attracting more and more attentions in recent years. However, the multi‐objective optimization of SAPG system considering off‐design work conditions has not been fully studied. In this paper, a general system integration optimization method (GIOM) has been developed for integration schemes optimization, and Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm‐II (NSGA‐II) algorithm is used for multi‐objective optimization of SAPG system. As a case study, a SAPG system that refers to a real 600 MWe supercritical coal‐fired power plant is optimized based on a typical day. By simultaneous optimization of both initial investment (P) and solar net electric generation (Esolar), the solar subsystem design schemes are optimized as Pareto optimal set. At last, to maximum Esolar/P, the final design scheme is selected from the Pareto optimal set, whose Esolar and P are 237.6 MWh and 113.5 M$, respectively. The results show that, the final design scheme is a heliostat field with instantaneous optical efficiency of 63.24% at the design point, the receiver power rating is 133 MWt, the tower height is 136.6 m, and distances of successive rows of the three zones are 13.6, 17.7, and 24.5 m, respectively. A larger or smaller size of solar subsystem is considered to be uneconomical.
A proposal for updating the staging of endometrial cancer
Authors: Maheshwari Amita , Gupta Sudeep , Prat Jaime
Published: February 2019

Since the last update of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging for corpus uteri cancer in 2009, a number of new insights into pathology, molecular genetics, and prognostic factors that justify a revision have been made. We recommend incorporation of histotype and grade along with depth of myometrial invasion to define stage I endometrial cancer, a change from 3‐tier grading to binary grading, and inclusion of lymph node status (negative vs not removed) in the definition of stage I disease. Elimination of cervical involvement to define stage II and inclusion of positive peritoneal cytology to upstage otherwise stage I cancers to stage IIA is also recommended. Extrauterine pelvic involvement should be classified as stage IIB disease, and stage III should be reclassified based exclusively on retroperitoneal pelvic and/or para‐aortic lymph node involvement. If feasible, molecular staging by immunohistochemistry (mismatch repair proteins and p53) as well as POLE exonuclease sequencing may be carried out in order to assign one of the four categories from The Cancer Genome Atlas.
The Role of ERP Capabilities in Achieving Competitive Advantage: An Empirical Study on Dakahlia Governorate Companies, Egypt
Authors: Elgohary Esam
Published: February 2019

Nowadays enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems are crucial for each company to automate and manage its business seamlessly and possess a competitive advantage. This paper was conducted with the purpose of determining which ERP capabilities categorized in IT capabilities, including integration, information access, IT skills and agility, and organizational capabilities including qualified human resources, top management support can affect decision‐making efficiency and competitive advantage types (low cost advantage and/or differentiation advantage), it also examines the impact of decision‐making efficiency on competitive advantage types. The problem of this paper is summarized in the uncertainty of the relationship between ERP capabilities and competitive advantage, as well as the absence of studies in this field. So, a survey was applied on 162 companies in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt in order to investigates the impact of ERP capabilities on low‐cost advantage, differentiation advantage, and decision making efficiency, in order to determine whether each category of ERP capabilities can affect any competitive advantage type and decision‐making efficiency in itself or they must be combined with each other to occur impact, and finally examine the decision making efficiency impact on competitive advantage types.
A case off TTP temporally associated with cocaine use: Implications for treatment of suspected DITMA
Authors: Regner Sean R. , Lerfald Nathan
Published: February 2019

Thrombotic microangiopathies are rare diseases associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The treatment of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and drug‐induced thrombotic microangiopathy (DITMA) remains a diagnostic dilemma as they present similarly but respond differently to standard treatment with plasma exchange. TTP is a deficiency of a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 motif 13 resulting in von Willebrand factor aggregates. DITMA is due to vascular and platelet toxicity. Our case contradicts a notion in current literature that suggests supportive therapy when there is high suspicion for DITMA. We present what appears to be the second published case of cocaine temporally associated with TTP. Our case responded to therapy. We propose this case should influence weighing the risks and benefits of treatment of suspected DITMA and reinforces current official guidelines that suggest treating cases of suspected DITMA as TTP until the diagnosis is confirmed.
Curcumin ameliorated myocardial infarction by inhibition of cardiotoxicity in the rat model
Authors: Rahnavard Mehdi , Hassanpour Mehdi , Ahmadi Mahdi , Heidarzadeh Morteza , Amini Hassan , Javanmard Masoumeh Zirak , Nouri Mohammad , Rahbarghazi Reza , Safaie Nasser
Published: February 2019

Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death globally. Many attempts have been done to ameliorate the pathological changes after the occurrence of myocardial infarction. Curcumin is touted as a polyphenol phytocompound with appropriate cardioprotective properties. In this study, the therapeutic effect of curcumin was investigated on acute myocardial infarction in the model of rats. Rats were classified into four groups; control, isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO) (100 mg/kbw), curcumin (50 mg/kbw), and curcumin plus ISO treatment groups. After 9‐day administration of curcumin, levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) were determined. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were measured to investigate the oxidative status in infarct rats received curcumin. By using H & E staining, tissue inflammation was performed. Masson’s trichrome staining was conducted to show cardiac remodeling and collagen deposition. The number of apoptotic cells was determined by using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. Data showed the serum decrease of LDH, CK, and cTnI in infarct rats after curcumin intake compared to the rats given (ISO) (
P < 0.05). Curcumin was found to reduce oxidative status by reducing SOD and MDA contents (
P < 0.05). Gross and microscopic examinations revealed that the decrease of infarct area, inflammation response and collagen deposition in rats given ISO plus curcumin (
P < 0.05). We noted the superior effect of curcumin to reduce the number of apoptotic cardiomyocytes after 9 days. Data point the cardioprotective effect of curcumin to diminish the complication of infarction by the reduction of cell necrosis and apoptosis in a rat model of experimental infarction.
An efficient second‐order poisson–boltzmann method
Authors: Wei Haixin , Luo Ray , Qi Ruxi
Published: February 2019

Immersed interface method (IIM) is a promising high‐accuracy numerical scheme for the Poisson–Boltzmann model that has been widely used to study electrostatic interactions in biomolecules. However, the IIM suffers from instability and slow convergence for typical applications. In this study, we introduced both analytical interface and surface regulation into IIM to address these issues. The analytical interface setup leads to better accuracy and its convergence closely follows a quadratic manner as predicted by theory. The surface regulation further speeds up the convergence for nontrivial biomolecules. In addition, uncertainties of the numerical energies for tested systems are also reduced by about half. More interestingly, the analytical setup significantly improves the linear solver efficiency and stability by generating more precise and better‐conditioned linear systems. Finally, we implemented the bottleneck linear system solver on GPUs to further improve the efficiency of the method, so it can be widely used for practical biomolecular applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐493‐5p inhibits proliferation and metastasis of osteosarcoma cells by targeting Kruppel‐like factor 5
Authors: Zhang Zaiqing , Luo Gongzeng , Yu Chuandong , Yu Guisheng , Jiang Rui , Shi Xuefeng
Published: February 2019

Osteosarcoma, including spinal osteosarcoma, has properties of high degree of malignancy, high rate of recurrence, and high incidence of metastasis. microRNAs can exert oncogenic or tumor suppressive roles in cancer cells. This study explored the effects of microRNA‐493‐5p (miR‐493‐5p) on osteosarcoma cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis, as well as the underlying possible mechanism. First, the expression of miR‐493‐5p in osteosarcoma tissues and cells was detected using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Then, the effects of miR‐493‐5p overexpression (or suppression) on osteosarcoma cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis, as well as Kruppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5) expression, were assessed using the Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay, two‐chamber transwell assay, Annexin V‐FITC/PI apoptosis detection kit, qRT‐PCR, and western blotting, respectively. Finally, the roles of KLF5 in miR‐493‐5p suppression‐induced U20S cell viability, migration, and invasion enhancement, as well as the PI3K/AKT pathway activation, were evaluated. We found that miR‐493‐5p had lower expression in tumor tissues of spinal osteosarcoma and osteosarcoma cells. Overexpression of miR‐493‐5p inhibited osteosarcoma U20S cell viability, migration, and invasion, but induced cell apoptosis. On the contrary, suppression of miR‐493‐5p‐promoted U20S cell viability, migration, and invasion. KLF5 was a direct target gene of miR‐493‐5p, which participated in the effects of miR‐493‐5p on U20S cell viability, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Furthermore, suppression of the miR‐493‐5p activated PI3K/AKT pathway in U20S cells by upregulating KLF5. In conclusion, we revealed that miR‐493‐5p exerted tumor suppressive roles in spinal osteosarcoma and osteosarcoma cells. Overexpression of miR‐493‐5p inhibited proliferation and metastasis of osteosarcoma cells by downregulating KLF5 and inactivating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
The Effectiveness of a Vancomycin Dosing Guideline in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for Achieving Goal Therapeutic Trough Concentrations
Authors: Reilly Ashley M. , Ding Michelle X. , Rower Joseph E. , Kiser Tyree H.
Published: February 2019

Concern for bacterial resistance and treatment failure with vancomycin trough concentrations < 10 μg/mL have led guidelines to increase goal concentrations. There is a paucity of data evaluating vancomycin dosage necessary to achieve goals in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We aimed to evaluate the implementation of a new vancomycin dosing guideline in improving trough target attainment. This retrospective study evaluated neonates in the NICU treated with vancomycin between January 2009 and December 2015. Therapeutic trough concentration attainment (10–20 μg/mL) was compared between neonates receiving vancomycin per old versus new dosing guidelines. Vancomycin trough concentrations, modeled pharmacodynamic target attainment, and nephrotoxicity were compared between groups. A total of 212 vancomycin trough concentrations (n = 91 old and n = 121 new guideline) were evaluated in 182 unique neonates. The mean ± standard deviation trough concentration achieved was 18.0 ± 7.3 μg/mL vs 8.9 ± 4.8 μg/mL in the new and old guidelines, respectively (P < .01). The new guideline resulted in a higher percentage of neonates achieving trough concentrations of 10 to 20 μg/mL (62% vs 29%; P < .01) and decreased the percentage of neonates with subtherapeutic trough concentrations (9% vs 69%; P < .01). Pharmacokinetic modeling identified postmenstrual age, days of life, and urine output as predictors of vancomycin clearance and resultant trough and area under the curve values (P < .01 for all). Trough concentrations >10 μg/mL ensured area under the curve /minimum inhibitory concentration >400 in >90% of neonates when bacteria minimum inhibitory concentration was ≤ 1 μg/mL. Nephrotoxicity was similar between groups (8.3% vs 7.7%; P = .99). In conclusion, a vancomycin nomogram designed to achieve trough concentration of 10 to 20 μg/mL improves pharmacodynamic target attainment in neonates in the NICU.
Size Ramsey numbers of stars versus cliques
Authors: Miralaei M. , Omidi G.R. , Shahsiah M.
Published: February 2019

The size Ramsey number of two graphs and is the smallest integer such that there exists a graph on edges with the property that every red‐blue colouring of the edges of yields a red copy of or a blue copy of . In 1981, Erdős observed thaturn:x-wiley:03649024:media:jgt22453:jgt22453-math-0010 and he conjectured that this upper bound on is sharp. In 1983, Faudree and Sheehan extended this conjecture as follows:urn:x-wiley:03649024:media:jgt22453:jgt22453-math-0012 They proved the case . In 2001, Pikhurko showed that this conjecture is not true for and , by disproving the mentioned conjecture of Erdős. Here, we prove Faudree and Sheehan's conjecture for a given and .
Preoperative prediction of lymphovascular invasion in invasive breast cancer with dynamic contrast‐enhanced‐MRI‐based radiomics
Authors: Liu Zhuangsheng , Feng Bao , Li Changlin , Chen Yehang , Chen Qinxian , Li Xiaoping , Guan Jianhua , Chen Xiangmeng , Cui Enming , Li Ronggang , Li Zhi , Long Wansheng
Published: February 2019

Background

Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) status facilitates the selection of optimal therapeutic strategy for breast cancer patients, but in clinical practice LVI status is determined in pathological specimens after resection.

Purpose

To explore the use of dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based radiomics for preoperative prediction of LVI in invasive breast cancer.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Ninety training cohort patients (22 LVI‐positive and 68 LVI‐negative) and 59 validation cohort patients (22 LVI‐positive and 37 LVI‐negative) were enrolled.

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 T and 3.0 T, T1‐weighted DCE‐MRI.

Assessment

Axillary lymph node (ALN) status for each patient was evaluated based on MR images (defined as MRI ALN status), and DCE semiquantitative parameters of lesions were calculated. Radiomic features were extracted from the first postcontrast DCE‐MRI. A radiomics signature was constructed in the training cohort with 10‐fold cross‐validation. The independent risk factors for LVI were identified and prediction models for LVI were developed. Their prediction performances and clinical usefulness were evaluated in the validation cohort.

Statistical Tests

Mann–Whitney U‐test, chi‐square test, kappa statistics, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, DeLong test, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Two radiomic features were selected to construct the radiomics signature. MRI ALN status (odds ratio, 10.452; P < 0.001) and the radiomics signature (odds ratio, 2.895; P = 0.031) were identified as independent risk factors for LVI. The value of the area under the curve (AUC) for a model combining both (0.763) was higher than that for MRI ALN status alone (0.665; P = 0.029) and similar to that for the radiomics signature (0.752; P = 0.857). DCA showed that the combined model added more net benefit than either feature alone.

Data Conclusion

The DCE‐MRI‐based radiomics signature in combination with MRI ALN status was effective in predicting the LVI status of patients with invasive breast cancer before surgery.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:847–857.
Pulmonary vein isolation plus left atrial posterior wall isolation and additional nonpulmonary vein trigger ablation using high‐dose isoproterenol for long‐standing persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Takamiya Tomomasa , Nitta Junichi , Sato Akira , Inamura Yukihiro , Kato Nobutaka , Inaba Osamu , Negi Ken , Yamato Tsunehiro , Matsumura Yutaka , Takahashi Yoshihide , Goya Masahiko , Hirao Kenzo
Published: February 2019

Background

Little evidence exists regarding the endpoint and optimum approach to catheter ablation for long‐standing persistent atrial fibrillation (LSPAF). We examined the efficacy of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) plus left atrium posterior wall isolation (PWI) and additional non‐PV trigger ablation using high‐dose isoproterenol for LSPAF.

Methods

One‐hundred and fifty‐five patients (median AF duration, 36 months) underwent catheter ablation for LSPAF; After PVI plus PWI, they underwent provocation of non‐PV triggers by high‐dose isoproterenol and were divided into 3 groups based on the results: group A, PVI plus PWI alone, without induced non‐PV triggers (single procedure: 105 patients, multiple procedures: 90 patients); group B, mappable non‐PV triggers demonstrated and ablated (single procedure: 41 patients, multiple procedures: 45 patients); group C, if non‐PV triggers were unmappable or could not be induced in repeated procedures, adjunctive complex fractionated atrial electrogram ablation was performed (single procedure: 9 patients, multiple procedures: 20 patients).

Results

The Kaplan‐Meier estimate of the 1‐year freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmias without antiarrhythmic drugs was 65% in all patients, (73%, 56%, and 11% in groups A, B, and C, respectively) after a single procedure, which improved to 86% in all patients (93%, 86%, and 53% in groups A, B, and C, respectively) after multiple procedures.

Conclusion

Even for LSPAF, in approximately 60% of patients, non‐PV triggers were not elicited, and PVI plus PWI alone achieved good outcomes. Although the inducibility of non‐PV triggers was associated with recurrence of atrial tachyarrhythmias, additional non‐PV trigger ablation may improve the outcome after multiple procedures.
Synchronous hepatectomy and splenectomy vs hepatectomy for selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and clinically significant portal hypertension: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kong Junjie , Shen Shu , Wang Wentao
Published: February 2019

This review aimed to evaluate the safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of synchronous hepatectomy and splenectomy for selected patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and clinically significant portal hypertension compared to hepatectomy alone. A systematic search in electronic databases was conducted. A total of 8 studies including 1445 patients were reviewed. While perioperative safety was satisfactory, synchronous hepatectomy and splenectomy were associated with a significant improvement of 5‐year overall survival (odds ratio = 1.81; 95% confidence interval: 1.35, 2.42; P < 0.0001).
SCUBA Medicine for Otolaryngologists: Part II. Diagnostic, Treatment, and Dive Fitness Recommendations
Authors: Mallen Jonathan R. , Roberts Daniel S.
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Challenge current practices and misconceptions in treating recreational SCUBA (Self‐contained underwater breathing apparatus) divers. Differentiate patients who are fit to dive and those with relative and absolute contraindications. Redefine the standard of care for fitness to dive parameters based on the most up‐to‐date evidence.

Methods

We conducted a review of the available medical and diving literature in English, German, Spanish, Italian, Turkish, and French to determine the degree of evidence or lack thereof behind recommendations for treating SCUBA divers. The databases of PubMed, Ovid Medline, and Cochrane library, as well as available textbooks, were queried for relevant data.

Results

Current recommendations regarding fitness to dive are overly prohibitive given the available evidence. Insufficient evidence currently exists to justify the level of certainty with which some recommendations have been made previously. This is particularly true with regard to postsurgical patients, including those who have undergone stapedectomy or skull base repairs. Updated treatment guidelines, particularly those regarding the timely differentiation of barotrauma and decompression sickness, as well as clearance for return to diving following surgery or trauma, are presented herein.

Conclusion

Current guidelines for otorhinolaryngologists governing the diagnosis and treatment of SCUBA divers are lacking and in some instances founded on insufficient evidence. We present an up‐to‐date, comprehensive guide for otorhinolaryngologists to utilize going forward. Laryngoscope, 130:59–64, 2020
Estimation of soil organic carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus losses induced by wind erosion in Northern China
Authors: Du Heqiang , Wang Tao , Xue Xian , Li Sen
Published: February 2019

The loss of nutrients induced by wind erosion causes serious land degradation. Northern China suffers from severe wind erosion that causes massive amounts of soil nutrients to be lost and results in land degradation. To thoroughly comprehend the mechanisms of land degradation in Northern China, the spatiotemporal distribution of nutrients losses induced by wind erosion must be considered. Therefore, in this study, a wind erosion model was employed to obtain the PM10 emissions in Northern China from 2001 to 2014, and the quantities of soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorus (TP) entrained by PM10 were obtained using the integrated soil database of China. The results showed that the losses of SOC, TN, and TP induced by wind erosion were 0.894, 0.184, and 0.123 Tg/a, respectively, and the spatial distributions of these three nutrients differed from one another. According to the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer land‐cover data, the nutrients lost from desert ecosystems contributed the largest fractions of the total nutrients lost in Northern China, and the fractions of SOC, TN, and TP losses from the desert ecosystems all exceeded 50%. Following the desert ecosystems, the grassland ecosystems also had higher fractions of nutrients losses. The farmland ecosystems, which were the most severely impacted by human activities, contributed to less than 10% of the total nutrients losses.
Electrospun Bacteria‐Gold Nanoparticle/Polymer Composite Mesofiber Nonwovens for Catalytic Application
Authors: Reich Steffen , Agarwal Seema , Greiner Andreas
Published: February 2019

Polymer composite nonwovens with living Micrococcus luteus (ML), a very common gram‐positive bacterium present on human skin, are prepared by electrospinning followed by coating via the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of poly(p‐xylylene) (PPX). The encapsulated living ML convert Au(III) ions to gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) when the composite nonwovens are dipped in an aqueous chloroauric acid solution. As a result of this process, AuNPs are formed on the ML. The ML‐immobilized AuNPs can be used for catalytic reactions with acetone as the solvent at a very low gold concentration. Despite the presence of acetone, ML survive the catalytic reaction. Interestingly, the catalytic reactions are possible only when the ML in the nonwovens are alive. In contrast, nonwovens with dead ML do not show any significant catalytic activity.