bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic mapping study for blockchain based on complex network
Authors: Li Peng , Li Kang , Wang Yilei , Zheng Ying , Wang Dongfeng , Yang Guoyu , Yu Xiaomei
Published: March 2020

Blockchain has started to appear as a potentially reliable and underlying technology for various fields. There have been lots of surveys focusing on blockchain with respect to specific topics, such as security, architecture, applications, and so on. However, a systematic mapping study, including all related fields about blockchain, has been largely ignored. In this article, we revisit the problem of complex networks in the form of scientific collaboration networks. More specifically, we utilize the method of systematic mapping and implement them into blockchain technology. We collect 233 articles by searching Baidu scholar with the keyword “blockchain,” then construct two complex networks according to the relationship of keywords and authors, respectively. The keywords' complex network is a small‐world network while the authors' complex network is not. Furthermore, the tool of Netdraw provides a visualized graph for the complex network. Meanwhile, we find some subgroups in the network, which may highlight the future direction of blockchain.
One Step Synthesis of N‐Containing Graphene Oxide from 3‐Aminophenol
Authors: Mandal Peetam , Debbarma Jhuma , Saha Mitali
Published: March 2020

Low temperature heating creates scintillating opportunity in controlling the reaction condition and designing the suitable nitrogen containing graphene oxide (NGO) for material researchers and industrial applications. Herein, one step synthesis of NGO from low temperature heating (≈ 120–125 °C) is reported from a nongraphitic nitrogenous precursor in contrast to the conventional methods using graphitic precursors, oxidizers, and N‐containing dopants. The formation of nanosheets of NGO with high nitrogen content (≈19%) is achieved from 3‐aminophenol in presence of trace amount of air bypassing doping and oxidizing agents. The presence of –NH2 and –OH in the precursor plays a vital role in the condensation and aromatization. The chemistry of formation of NGO is studied and the mechanism confirms the presence of pyridinic‐N, graphitic‐N, and pyrrolic‐N in the nanosheets. Further urea is used to reduce NGO into reduced nitrogen graphene oxide, retaining the sheet structure.
PCR‐based detection of the epibiotic fungus Atkinsonella hypoxylon associated with its host grass Danthonia spicata
Authors: Warnke Scott E.
Published: March 2020

Danthonia spicata (L.) Beauv., commonly known as poverty oatgrass, is a perennial bunch‐type grass native to North America. Danthonia spicata is often managed as a turfgrass in areas of the United States where cool‐season grasses are adapted, and it has potential for development as a low‐input turfgrass option. Naturally occurring D. spicata plants occasionally exhibit “choke” of the flowering stems due to a proliferation of fungal hyphae by the ascomycete Atkinsonella hypoxylon (Peck) Diehl. (family Clavicipitaceae). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers were designed to amplify a 116‐bp A. hypoxylon‐specific fragment within the 5.8S ribosomal RNA Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS 1) region. The primer set was then used to amplify the fragment from 24 A. hypoxylon isolates and 24 D. spicata terminal seed head DNA extractions collected from a greenhouse‐maintained population that has never exhibited choke. The A. hypoxylon ITS 1 fragment was amplified from all fungal samples and all terminal seed head samples tested. The plant and fungal amplified fragments produced the same melt peak in high‐resolution melt analysis, and sequence analysis of all terminal seed head samples showed highly significant blast hits with the ITS 1 sequence of A. hypoxylon GenBank Accession U57405.1 and the 24 A. hypoxylon isolates. These results provide evidence that all sampled D. spicata plants are associated with the fungus A. hypoxylon and provide a useful tool for the study A. hypoxylon and its association with D. spicata.
Investigating a simplified method for noninvasive genetic sampling in East African mammals using silica dried scat swabs
Authors: Tighe Andrew J. , Overby Sarah , Thurman Kiera , Gandola Robert , Fulanda Bernerd , Byrne John , Carlsson Jens
Published: March 2020

Swabbing scat has proved to be an effective noninvasive method to collect DNA from mammals in the field. Previously, this method has relied on preservative liquids or freezing to preserve the DNA collected on swabs. In this study, we determine the effectiveness of using silica to simply dry the swab in field as an alternative way to prevent DNA degredation. Four species were included in the study; reticulated giraffe, impala, fringe‐eared oryx, and lion. Swabs were taken at multiple time points for giraffe and impala scat samples, with the lion and oryx sampled opportunistically. Mitochondrial DNA was successfully amplified and sequenced from scat swabs from all species; however, effectiveness varied between species, with 81.8% amplification success rate from swabs taken from impala scat compared to 25% amplification success rate in giraffe. This variation in success rate was overcome by taking multiple swabs, thus increasing the probability of a successful amplification. The true merit of this method is in its simplicity and cheapness; no preservative liquids were required to be brought into the field, at no stage in the 2 weeks of field sampling were samples frozen, and no commercial kits were used for DNA extraction.
Reaction of Methyllithium with Group 6 Phosphine Dinitrogen Complexes
Authors: Bouammali Amal , Bijani Christian , Vendier Laure , Etienne Michel , Simonneau Antoine
Published: March 2020

The reaction of MeLi with several group 6 phosphine end‐on dinitrogen complexes of the general formula [ML4(N2)2] (M = Mo or W) is reported. Unlike the isoelectronic complex [CpMn(CO)2(N2)] on which RLi reagents have been reported to add to the N2 ligand, we show herein that MeLi attacks the metal centre to afford rare anionic trans methyl dinitrogen complexes.
Voltammetric Detection of Catechol and Dopamine Based on a Supramolecular Composite Prepared from Multifarene[3,3] and Reduced Graphene Oxide
Authors: Luo Huan , Zhao Yong‐Yi , Jin Xian‐Yi , Yang Jian‐Mei , Cong Hang , Ge Qing‐Mei , Sun Lin , Liu Mao , Tao Zhu
Published: March 2020

A selective and sensitive modified‐electrode for catechol and dopamine was presented with supramolecular recognition accomplished by making use of the macrocyclic host multifarene[3,3] that was used as a composite with reduced graphene oxide. The morphologies and electrochemical nature of the composite were characterized by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse anodic voltammetry. The modified electrode, best operated at a potential around 0.16 V vs. Ag/AgCl, displayed a differential pulse voltammetric response in the linear concentration range of 10–100 nM within a detection limit of 0.51 nM (at S/N=3). It was further applied to detect dopamine (at a working potential of 0.18 V vs. Ag/AgCl) in the linear concentration range of 10–100 nM with a detection limit of 0.62 nM. The modified electrode also exhibited satisfactory results to the determination of dopamine injections. The constructed modified electrode for dopamine detection was investigated in the presence of the interfering substances including glucose, urea and ascorbic acid, indicating a good selectivity.
Influence factors of unpropped fracture conductivity of shale
Authors: Lu Cong , Lu Yu , Gou Xinghao , Zhong Ye , Chen Chi , Guo Jianchun
Published: March 2020

Hydraulic fracture is widely performed to enhance oil and gas production in the development of unconventional reservoirs. This paper proposes a numerical model for the calculation of the unpropped fracture conductivity of shale. This numerical model consists of three basic models, namely, the numerical reconstruction model of fracture morphology, fracture deformation model under closed stress, and fluid flow model. The numerical model can be used to analyze the influencing factors of the unpropped fracture conductivity of shale quantitatively. The results demonstrate that the fracture misalignment of shale is a prerequisite for unpropped fractures with conductivity at high closed stress. Furthermore, the unpropped fracture conductivity of shale decreases exponentially with the increase in closed stress. Moreover, closed stress is the factor having the most significant influence on the unpropped fracture conductivity of shale, followed by roughness and fracture morphology. The negative effect of closed stress can be reduced by increasing the fracture morphology during the fracturing operation.
Experimental investigation of dry ice cyclone separator for ultra‐low temperature energy storage using carbon dioxide
Authors: Yamasaki Haruhiko , Kizilkan Önder , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Kamimura Takeshi , Hattori Kazuhiro , Nekså Petter
Published: March 2020

CO2 cascade heat pump system has been developed to realize an ultra‐low temperature below the triple point of 0.518 MPa and − 56.6°C or less by flowing dry ice solid‐gas state of CO2 in a refrigeration system. Solid CO2 in the refrigeration system may cause to block the flow in the evaporation process and make the system operation failed. To overcome the blocking phenomena and farther challenging lower refrigeration temperature, the CO2 cyclone separator was newly proposed instead of the conventional evaporator for ultra‐low temperature energy storage. The basic characteristics of CO2 dry ice cycle separator were investigated by constructing test rigs and visual experiments. The visualization tests were carried out by three type separators: nonswirling type separator, cylindrical, and conical type cyclone separators. The results of visualization test showed that the size of the dry ice particles gets bigger by coalescing together with the strong swirling flow in the cyclone separator. In comparison with three type separators, particularly by using the conical type cyclone separator, the amount of accumulation of dry ice at the bottom of the separator was increased as a result of the growth in dry ice particle size.
Lanthanum and Cerium Toxicity to the Freshwater Green Alga Chlorella fusca: Applicability of the Biotic Ligand Model
Authors: Aharchaou Imad , Beaubien Cédrick , Campbell Peter G.C. , Fortin Claude
Published: March 2020

The environmental risk assessment of rare earth elements (REEs) requires data on their potential toxicity. In the present study, the toxicity of lanthanum (La) and cerium (Ce) was studied in relation to metal speciation in solution. For both La and Ce, the use of organic ligands demonstrated that the calculated free ion concentration was a good indicator of toxicity. Whether in the absence or presence of organic ligands, when based on free ion concentrations, the obtained half-maximal effective concentrations were similar. When all generated data were pooled, Ce and La showed identical toxicity thresholds after 120 h of exposure with free ion concentration–based median effective concentration values (95% confidence intervals) of 0.48 (0.38–0.60) µM and 0.47 (0.36–0.61) µM for La3+ and Ce3+, respectively. The inhibition of algal growth was also correlated with the intracellular lanthanide concentrations, regardless of the ligand used. Finally, increasing the ambient calcium concentration protected the test algae by reducing the amount of lanthanide internalized into the cells. These results suggest that, at constant pH (5.5), REE accumulation and toxicity are linked to the free ion concentration and ambient calcium concentration, as predicted by the biotic ligand model. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:996–1005. © 2020 SETAC

Abstract

Lanthanum and cerium uptake and toxicity can be predicted by the concentration of its free ion concentration regardless of the ligand used. La = lanthanum; Ln = lanthanide; NTA = nitrilotriacetic acid.
Community detection across multiple social networks based on overlapping users
Authors: Zhu Ziqing , Zhou Tao , Jia Chenghao , Liu Weijia , Liu Bo , Cao Jiuxin
Published: March 2020

With the rapid development of Internet technology, online social networks have got fast development and become increasingly popular. Meanwhile, the research works across multiple social networks attract growing attention, among which community detection is quite important for online security problems, such as the user behavior analysis and abnormal community discovery. In this paper, a community detection method is proposed across multiple social networks based on overlapping users. First, the concept of overlapping users is defined, then an algorithm CMN_NMF is designed to discover the stub communities from overlapping users based on the social relevance. After that, we expand each stub community in different social networks by adding the users with strong similarity, and in the end different communities are derived out across networks. At last, experiments are carried out to verify the reasonability of community. Our method shows better performance in real datasets compared with others.
Constructing and evaluating a cortical surface atlas and analyzing cortical sex differences in young Chinese adults
Authors: Yang Guoyuan , Bozek Jelena , Han Meizhen , Gao Jia‐Hong
Published: March 2020

Cortical surface templates are an important standardized coordinate frame for cortical structure and function analysis in magnetic resonance (MR) imaging studies. The widely used adult cortical surface templates (e.g., fsaverage, Conte69, and the HCP‐MMP atlas) are based on the Caucasian population. Neuroanatomical differences related to environmental and genetic factors between Chinese and Caucasian populations make these templates unideal for analysis of the cortex in the Chinese population. We used a multimodal surface matching algorithm in an iterative procedure to create Chinese (sCN200) and Caucasian (sUS200) cortical surface atlases based on 200 demographically matched high‐quality T1‐ and T2‐weighted (T1w and T2w, respectively) MR images from the Chinese Human Connectome Project (CHCP) and the Human Connectome Project (HCP), respectively. Templates for anatomical cortical surfaces (white matter, pial, midthickness) and cortical feature maps of sulcal depth, curvature, thickness, T1w/T2w myelin, and cortical labels were generated. Using independent subsets from the CHCP and the HCP, we quantified the accuracy of cortical registration when using population‐matched and mismatched atlases. The performance of the cortical registration and accuracy of curvature alignment when using population‐matched atlases was significantly improved, thereby demonstrating the importance of using the sCN200 cortical surface atlas for Chinese adult population studies. Finally, we analyzed female and male cortical differences within the Chinese and Caucasian populations. We identified significant between‐sex differences in cortical curvature, sulcal depth, thickness, and T1w/T2w myelin maps in the frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital, and insular lobes as well as the cingulate cortices.
A study of the risks of CIN3+ detection after multiple rounds of HPV testing: Results of the 15‐year cervical cancer screening experience at Kaiser Permanente Northern California
Authors: Hammer Anne , Demarco Maria , Campos Nicole , Befano Brian , Gravitt Patti E. , Cheung Li , Lorey Thomas S. , Poitras Nancy , Kinney Walter , Wentzensen Nicolas , Castle Philip E. , Schiffman Mark
Published: March 2020

Many countries are transitioning to HPV testing for cervical cancer screening, despite a lack of long‐term experience. To anticipate multi‐round screening performance, we analyzed 15‐year HPV testing results at Kaiser Permanente Northern California (KPNC). We evaluated HPV test result patterns among women aged 30–64 undergoing triennial HPV/cytology cotesting at KPNC during 2003–2018. We calculated incidence rates and proportion of CIN3+ diagnoses associated with the most frequent HPV testing patterns overall and stratified by age. From 2003 to 2018, a total of 1,361,581 women had a valid HPV test result, and 7,087 were diagnosed with CIN3+. Incidence rates of CIN3+ after HPV positivity were lowest when HPV detection was new and highest in women with prevalent infections (770 vs. 13,910/100,000 person‐years). Repeat test negativity reduced subsequent incidence rates of CIN3+ to extremely low levels (18/100,000 person‐years following four consecutive negative results). For mixed patterns of positivity/negativity, the recency and frequency of positive tests were associated with increased rates of CIN3+ diagnosis. Most CIN3+ cases (76%) were diagnosed in women who were positive at baseline (the first known positive HPV result); 16% were attributed to apparent newly detected infections and 3% to possible reappearing infections. These results corroborate previous findings that current HPV positivity, particularly when prevalent rather than new, is associated with the highest rates of CIN3+. In a screening program implementing HPV testing, most CIN3+ is detected at the first HPV positive test.
Nickel and Palladium Complexes with Reactive σ‐Metal‐Oxygen Covalent Bonds
Authors: Martínez‐Prieto Luis M. , Cámpora Juan
Published: March 2020

This article reviews the chemistry of nickel and palladium complexes with terminally bound hydroxide and alkoxide ligands. The research carried out in our group is discussed in the context of the general literature. It is shown that suitable methods of synthesis, combined with the choice of adequate ligands allow the isolation of a range of stable complexes. This has enabled a detailed investigation of the chemical reactivity of the M−O bonds, once believed to be intrinsically weak. The elucidation of trends in thermodynamic stability and kinetic lability is the key for a better understanding of the reactivity of this class of compounds, that combines basic and nucleophilic properties with typical organometallic patterns, like β‐hydrogen elimination. Based on reversible acid‐base exchange and CO2 insertion reactions, we discuss how the polarity of the M‐OR bonds influence their relative stability, their hydrolytic sensitivity and their tendency to react with electrophiles.
Value Engineering: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Emami Kamran , Emami Tara
Published: March 2020

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are targets for global development adopted in September 2015, set to be achieved by 2030.

SDG 1 is clear: By 2030, eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere. The proportion of the world's population in extreme poverty declined from almost everyone two centuries ago to below 10% in 2015.

Projections by Crespo Cuaresma et al. published in Nature in 2108 show that the number of people in extreme poverty will fall to about 450 million people by 2030. To fully eradicate extreme poverty for all people everywhere may be equivalent to saving approximately US$250 billion annually which is less than 0.3% of the world gross domestic product (GDP). Based on worldwide experience, value methodology can facilitate average saving of about 20–30% of total project costs in developing countries and consequently value engineering (VE) can facilitate the saving required for ICID Vision 2030. The ‘transition generation’ is the most important hope that humanity has for coping with mega challenges of the twenty‐first century. The ‘transition generation’ must be inspired and empowered. In this context, it is envisioned that value methodology will be proved to be an effective and efficient tool. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF DUYRIDGE DAM AS A WATER‐HARVESTING SCHEME IN IRAQ
Authors: Al‐Rubaye Shayma , Awad Wadaq , Ahmed Safa , Mahmoud Aisha
Published: March 2020

Iraq, home of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, has survived an extreme deficiency of surface water assets over the years. The gap is due to the decline of the Iraqi water share every year, as well as a high demand for water use from different sectors, particularly agriculture.

Dam development has long given significant economic benefits to Iraq in circulating low‐priced electricity and supporting low‐income farmers by supplying them with a free irrigation system (Zakaria et al, 2012). This encouraged domestic consumption and investment.

Despite the fact that numerous advantages are expected from dam construction, it should be painstakingly assessed, utilizing cost–benefit analysis before endorsement.

This study aims to evaluate the capability of the Duyridge Dam in Maysan Governorate to harvest rainwater in Iraq and meet the local populations' needs as well as the geological, topographic, hydrological and economic requisites of water.

The result indicates that the net present costs and net present benefits at a 10% discount rate are equal to US$18.8 million and US$20.2 million respectively, while the net present value is equal to US$179 000 and the benefit–cost ratio is equal to 1.08.

Likewise, the results show that the internal rate of return is 11% and the payback of the project period is 5 years. The sensitivity analysis of the dam was estimated as well. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inside Cover: Localization of PD‐L1 on single cancer cells by iSERS microscopy with Au/Au core/satellite nanoparticles (J. Biophotonics 3/2020)
Authors: Stepula Elzbieta , König Matthias , Wang Xin‐Ping , Levermann Janina , Schimming Tobias , Kasimir‐Bauer Sabine , Schilling Bastian , Schlücker Sebastian
Published: March 2020

iSERS (SERS=surface‐enhanced Raman scattering) microscopy is an emerging Raman‐based staining technique for the selective localization of target proteins on cells and tissues using antibody‐ SERS nanotag conjugates. In this contribution we demonstrate the feasibility of iSERS for imaging of programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1), an important predictive biomarker, on single SkBr‐3 breast cancer cells.

Further details can be found in the article by Elzbieta Stepula, Matthias König, Xin‐Ping Wang, et al. (e201960034).

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A multifunctional fusion peptide for tethering to hydroxyapatite and selective capture of bone morphogenetic protein from extracellular milieu
Authors: Bahri Mina , Hasannia Sadegh , Dabirmanesh Bahareh , Moshaverinia Alireza , Zadeh Homayoun H.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The present study sought to design a multi‐functional fusion peptide with hydroxyapatite (HA) binding domain (HABD) and heparin binding domain (HBD).

Methods

The 74 amino acid fusion peptide contained N‐terminus of the fibrinogen β chain (β 15–66), double G4S‐linker and 12 residues with HA affinity. This construct was designed, synthesized and cloned into pET21a(+) vector and expressed in E. coli.

Results

HABD facilitated purification of the fusion peptide by HA affinity chromatography. Kinetic peptide binding and release on HA scaffold showed sustained release of peptide for up to 16 days. Competitive ELISA and intrinsic fluorescence assays were applied to determine HBD affinity to bone morphogenetic protein‐2 (BMP‐2). The disassociation rate constant (Kd) for HBD and rhBMP‐2 was approximately 9.2–12 nM.

Conclusion

The fusion peptide developed in the present study, allowed for streamlined purification on HA affinity chromatography, as well as sustained release from HA scaffold, attributed to its HABD. HBD mediated binding to BMP‐2, which may be potentially useful for bone repair. Additional studies, including in vivo investigation will be required to assess the efficacy of the fusion peptide in bone tissue engineering.
Performance comparison of EasyFix G26 and HYDRASYS 2 SCAN for the detection of serum monoclonal proteins
Authors: Amin Nordin Fatimah Diana , Mohd Khalid Mohd Khairul Nizam , Abdul Aziz Siti Mastura , Mohamad Bakri Nor Aina , Ahmad Ridzuan Siti Nurwani , Abdul Jalil Julaina , Habib Anasufiza , Yakob Yusnita
Published: March 2020

Background

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) is a widely used laboratory technique to diagnose patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and other disorders related to serum protein. In patients with MM, abnormal monoclonal protein can be detected by SPE and further characterized using immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE). There are several semi‐automated agarose gel‐based systems available commercially for SPE and IFE. In this study, we sought to evaluate the analytical performance of fully automated EasyFix G26 (EFG26) and semi‐automated HYDRASYS 2 SCAN (H2SCAN) for both SPE and IFE.

Methods

Both instruments were operated according to manufacturer's instructions. Samples used include a commercially available normal control serum (NCS) and patients' specimens. The following were evaluated: precision and comparison studies for SPE, and reproducibility and comparison studies for IFE. Statistical analyses were performed using Microsoft Excel.

Results

For SPE repeatability study, our results showed that EFG26 has higher coefficient of variation (%CV) compared with H2SCAN for both samples except for monoclonal component with %CV of 0.97% and 1.18%, respectively. Similar results were obtained for SPE reproducibility study except for alpha‐1 (4.16%) and beta (3.13%) fractions for NCS, and beta fractions (5.36%) for monoclonal sample. Subsequently, reproducibility for IFE was 100% for both instruments. Values for correlation coefficients between both instruments ranged from 0.91 to 0.98 for the five classic bands.

Conclusion

Both instruments demonstrated good analytical performance characterized by high precision, reproducibility and correlation.
Association of heme oxygenase‐1 single nucleotide polymorphisms with susceptibility to tuberculosis in Chinese Han population
Authors: Wu Jingcan , Wu Shouquan , Liu Qianqian , Wang Yu , Ji Guiyi , Sandford Andrew J. , He Jian‐Qing
Published: March 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease, caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis infection, which is associated with oxidative stress and the induction of host antioxidants to counteract this response. The heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) single nucleotide polymorphisms have been reported to be associated with many critical diseases. Our purpose was to investigate the association of HO‐1 single nucleotide polymorphisms with the susceptibility to tuberculosis in Chinese Han population.

Methods

A case‐control study was performed on Chinese Han population, and a group of 638 TB patients was compared to 610 healthy controls. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) including rs2071746, rs5995098, and rs8140669 were genotyped using the MassARRAY platform. The genotype frequency was compared between TB patients and healthy controls. The association between the three genetic models of the three SNPs and TB risk was further investigated.

Results

The results showed that, in the case of additive model, there was significant difference of the genotype frequencies of SNP rs8140669 between the TB patients and control groups (P = .038). In the case of dominant model, the genotype frequencies of SNP rs8140669 may have difference between the two cohorts (P = .051), while the allele frequency and genotype distribution for other two SNPs showed no significant difference between the two groups (P > .05).

Conclusion

HO‐1 polymorphism was associated with TB susceptibility in Chinese Han population.
Editorial for "Altered Functional Connectivity of Hypothalamus in Lifelong Premature Ejaculation Patients”
Authors: Cevolani Daniela
Published: March 2020

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:785–786.
Transmission dynamics of the COVID‐19 outbreak and effectiveness of government interventions: A data‐driven analysis
Authors: Fang Yaqing , Nie Yiting , Penny Marshare
Published: March 2020

Using the parameterized susceptible‐exposed‐infectious‐recovered model, we simulated the spread dynamics of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak and impact of different control measures, conducted the sensitivity analysis to identify the key factor, plotted the trend curve of effective reproductive number (R), and performed data fitting after the simulation. By simulation and data fitting, the model showed the peak existing confirmed cases of 59 769 arriving on 15 February 2020, with the coefficient of determination close to 1 and the fitting bias 3.02%, suggesting high precision of the data‐fitting results. More rigorous government control policies were associated with a slower increase in the infected population. Isolation and protective procedures would be less effective as more cases accrue, so the optimization of the treatment plan and the development of specific drugs would be of more importance. There was an upward trend of R in the beginning, followed by a downward trend, a temporary rebound, and another continuous decline. The feature of high infectiousness for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS‐CoV‐2) led to an upward trend, and government measures contributed to the temporary rebound and declines. The declines of R could be exploited as strong evidence for the effectiveness of the interventions. Evidence from the four‐phase stringent measures showed that it was significant to ensure early detection, early isolation, early treatment, adequate medical supplies, patients’ being admitted to designated hospitals, and comprehensive therapeutic strategy. Collaborative efforts are required to combat the novel coronavirus, focusing on both persistent strict domestic interventions and vigilance against exogenous imported cases.
Soluble Dietary Fiber Reduces Feeding Intolerance in Severe Acute Pancreatitis: A Randomized Study
Authors: Chen Ting , Ma Yuanyuan , Xu Lei , Sun Cheng , Xu Hongxia , Zhu Jingci
Published: March 2020

Background

Feeding intolerance of enteral nutrition (EN) frequently occurs in patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) because of intestinal motility disorders. Soluble dietary fiber (SDF) modulates the intestinal motility. The present study examined whether SDF can improve intestinal motility and permeability, and thereby reduce feeding intolerance, in patients with SAP.

Methods

This study was a single‐blind, randomized, controlled, single‐center trial. Forty‐nine patients with SAP were included. The control and SDF groups received the same EN solution via a nasojejunal tube. The SDF group additionally received 20‐g/d polydextrose. The primary outcome was the time to reach the energy goal. Follow‐up was continued for 28 days after admission or until discharge from the hospital.

Results

Among 49 randomized patients, 46 patients (n = 22, control group; n = 24, SDF group) were included in the intent‐to‐treat analysis. The time to reach the energy goal was 7.00 (6.00, 8.25) days and 5.00 (4.25, 6.00) days in the control and SDF groups, respectively (P < 0.001). The rates of feeding intolerance were significantly reduced in the SDF group (59.09% vs 25.00%,P < .05). SDF was associated with decreases in the incidence of abdominal distension (72.73% vs 29.17%,P < .01), diarrhea (40.91% vs 8.33%,P < .05), and constipation (72.73% vs 12.50%,P < .001). The time to first flatus and first defecation were significantly shorter in the SDF group (P < .001). The intestinal mucosal barrier function and levels of gastrointestinal hormone were improved by SDF, as evidenced by significantly reduced blood levels of diamine oxidase, D‐lactic acid, endotoxin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide (P < .05).

Conclusions

SDF shortens the time to reach the energy goal during EN and improves intestinal permeability and motility disorders, thus reducing the incidence of feeding intolerance in SAP patients.
Noninvasive Near‐Field Spectroscopy of Single Subwavelength Complementary Resonators
Authors: Hale Lucy L. , Keller Janine , Siday Thomas , Hermans Rodolfo I. , Haase Johannes , Reno John L. , Brener Igal , Scalari Giacomo , Faist Jérôme , Mitrofanov Oleg
Published: March 2020

Subwavelength metallic resonators provide a route to achieving strong light–matter coupling by means of tight confinement of resonant electromagnetic fields. Investigation of such resonators however often presents experimental difficulties, particularly at terahertz (THz) frequencies. A single subwavelength resonator interacts weakly with THz beams, making it difficult to probe it using far‐field methods, whereas arrays of resonators exhibit inter‐resonator coupling, which affect the resonator spectral signature and field confinement. Here, traditional far‐field THz spectroscopy is systematically compared with aperture‐type THz near‐field microscopy for investigating complementary THz resonators. While the far‐field method proves impractical for measuring single resonators, the near‐field technique gives high signal‐to‐noise spectral information, only achievable in the far‐field with resonator arrays. At the same time, the near‐field technique allows to analyze single resonators without significant interaction with the near‐field probe. Furthermore, the near‐field technique allows highly confined fields and surface waves to be mapped in space and time. This information gives invaluable insight into spectral response in resonator arrays. This near‐field microscopy and spectroscopy method enables investigations of strong light–matter coupling at THz frequencies in the single‐resonator regime.
A Randomized, Controlled Trial on the Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Therapy and Non‐Contact Selective‐Field Radiofrequency on Abdominal Adiposity in Adolescents With Obesity
Authors: Elnaggar Ragab K.
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

Structured physical activities and dietary control have traditionally been used with the aim of controlling obesity. However, effective auxiliary modalities still needed to reduce local obesity, specifically abdominal obesity. This study examined the adjunct effect of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), and non‐contact selective‐field radiofrequency (NcRF) on abdominal adiposity in adolescents with obesity.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Fifty‐four adolescents with obesity (33 females and 21 males) took part in this study and were distributed randomly into three treatment‐based groups. Control group (n = 18, age; 14.61 ± 1.14 years), PBMT group (n = 18, age; 14.22 ± 0.88 years), and NcRF group (n = 18, age; 15.11 ± 0.96 years). A dietary control plan of 1,000–1,200 kcal/day, and a 60‐minute aerobic exercise program conducted day‐by‐day over 4 weeks were provided for all participants. Additionally, the PBMT group received 12 20‐minute PBMT on the abdominal area (energy/session ~4.08 J/cm2) thrice/week, and the NcRF group underwent four 30‐minute treatments with NcRF on the abdominal area once/week. Waist/hip ratio (W‐to‐H ratio), intra‐abdominal fat thickness (IAFT), and the subcutaneous‐abdominal fat thickness (SAFT) were observed at the baseline and after 4 weeks.

Results

The W‐to‐H ratio and SAFT reduced significantly in the PBMT group compared with either the control group (P = 0.001 and 0.001, respectively) or the NcRF group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.046, respectively) post‐intervention. However, the IAFT and IAFT/SAFT ratio did not differ significantly among the study groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our analysis shows that PBMT is more efficient than NcRF for the reduction of W‐to‐H ratio and SAFT in adolescents with obesity. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
LEADING WITH PURPOSE: THE LEADER OF LEADERS ON CHANGING THE  RACE NARRATIVE
Authors: Spriggs Skip
Published: March 2020

The article discusses the author’s experience as chief executive officer (CEO) of The Executive Leadership Council (The ELC), with 1,000 members, powerful black corporate executives and top‐tier entrepreneurs, all either current or former CEOs or executives within one or two reports of their CEOs at Fortune 1,000 companies. It notes that The ELC has a responsibility to leverage its collective power and influence in business to the story of being black in America. The purpose of the organization is described as to increase the number of blacks on the top 500 corporations’ boards and CEO offices, while keeping the pipeline behind them full of the next generation of leaders; and to open channels of opportunity for the development of black executives and black entrepreneurs to make positive impacts on business and our communities overall. Also discussed are unique, black‐focused leadership development programs, stretching from the classroom to the boardroom, that draw almost 2,000 aspiring business leaders every year, such as awarding more than $500,000 annually in student scholarships; and consulting directly with corporate CEOs, their executive committees, business schools, politicians, and policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels about how to achieve meaningful inclusion.
Maine, Virginia allow students to be excused for MH reasons
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2020

In an effort to address the stigma around mental illness and the rising suicide rates among young people, more and more states are passing legislation and enacting new laws to allow excused absences for students due to mental health or behavioral health reasons. Last year, Oregon and Utah decided to allow for regular sick days if students have mental health issues. And now two more states have joined the fray: Maine and Virginia.
The accelerating profession of clinical mental health counseling
Authors: Otis Gray , Miller Joel E.
Published: March 2020

The American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) supports licensed clinical mental health counselors (LCMHCs) and is dedicated to advancing the clinical mental health counseling profession through professional development, educational publications, continuing education and training, career guidance, standards of practice, research, advocacy and other resources, such as networking opportunities.
Numerical solution of nonlinear fractal‐fractional optimal control problems by Legendre polynomials
Authors: Heydari Mohammad Hossein , Atangana Abdon , Avazzadeh Zakieh
Published: March 2020

This article is devoted to developing an accurate operational matrix (OM) method for the solution of a new category of nonlinear optimal control problems (OCPs) explained by fractal‐fractional dynamical systems. The fractal‐fractional differentiation is considered in the sense of Atangana‐Riemann‐Liouville. The method is based on the shifted Legendre polynomials (LPs). Through the way, a new OM of fractal‐fractional differentiation is extracted for the shifted LPs. The optimality conditions are converted to an algebraic system of equations by using the shifted LP expansions of the state and control variables and applying the method of constrained extrema. More precisely, these variables are approximated by the shifted LPs with undetermined coefficients. Then, these expansions are replaced in the performance index, and the Gauss‐Legendre integration method is used to approximate the performance index for extracting a nonlinear algebraic equation. In the sequel, the mentioned OM and the collocation method are used to generate some algebraic equations from the dynamical system. Finally, the method of the constrained extrema is used by coupling the algebraic constraints generated from the dynamical system and the initial condition with the algebraic equation elicited from the performance index by a set of unknown Lagrange multipliers. The accuracy of the method is studied by solving some numerical examples.
Towards unconstrained compartment modeling in white matter using diffusion‐relaxation MRI with tensor‐valued diffusion encoding
Authors: Lampinen Björn , Szczepankiewicz Filip , Mårtensson Johan , van Westen Danielle , Hansson Oskar , Westin Carl‐Fredrik , Nilsson Markus
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To optimize diffusion‐relaxation MRI with tensor‐valued diffusion encoding for precise estimation of compartment‐specific fractions, diffusivities, and T2 values within a two‐compartment model of white matter, and to explore the approach in vivo.

Methods

Sampling protocols featuring different b‐values (b), b‐tensor shapes (bΔ), and echo times (TE) were optimized using Cramér‐Rao lower bounds (CRLB). Whole‐brain data were acquired in children, adults, and elderly with white matter lesions. Compartment fractions, diffusivities, and T2 values were estimated in a model featuring two microstructural compartments represented by a “stick” and a “zeppelin.”

Results

Precise parameter estimates were enabled by sampling protocols featuring seven or more “shells” with unique b/bΔ/TE‐combinations. Acquisition times were approximately 15 minutes. In white matter of adults, the “stick” compartment had a fraction of approximately 0.5 and, compared with the “zeppelin” compartment, featured lower isotropic diffusivities (0.6 vs. 1.3 μm2/ms) but higher T2 values (85 vs. 65 ms). Children featured lower “stick” fractions (0.4). White matter lesions exhibited high “zeppelin” isotropic diffusivities (1.7 μm2/ms) and T2 values (150 ms).

Conclusions

Diffusion‐relaxation MRI with tensor‐valued diffusion encoding expands the set of microstructure parameters that can be precisely estimated and therefore increases their specificity to biological quantities.
Nutrition Status and Health‐Related Quality of Life Among Outpatients With Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Mulasi Urvashi , Vock David M. , Jager‐Wittenaar Harriët , Teigen Levi , Kuchnia Adam J. , Jha Gautam , Fujioka Naomi , Rudrapatna Venkatesh , Patel Manish R. , Earthman Carrie P.
Published: March 2020

This pilot study evaluated nutrition status and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes among outpatients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Data were collected from 19 patients (18 males, 1 female) during 3 time points: once before chemoradiotherapy (CRT) initiation and 1 and 3 months after CRT. Nutrition status was evaluated using the Scored Patient‐Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG‐SGA). Malnutrition was defined as PG‐SGA stage B (moderate/suspected malnutrition) or stage C (severely malnourished). HRQOL was assessed through the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ‐C30) and its HNC‐specific module (QLQ‐H&N35). We found that well‐nourished patients reported having fewer issues with pain, fatigue, appetite loss, chewing, sticky saliva, coughing, and social eating than those categorized as malnourished (P < .05). The association between the global quality‐of‐life score and PG‐SGA score was statistically significant but weak in strength (r = −0.37, P = .012). Although PG‐SGA identified 70% as either moderately or severely malnourished before treatment initiation, the mean body mass index was in the overweight category (29 ± 5 kg/m2). Compared with pretreatment, patients reported more severe problems with chewing, swallowing, sticky saliva, dry mouth, speech, social eating, and taste and smell sensations at 1‐month follow‐up, although issues with dry mouth persisted 3 months post treatment (P = .003). In conclusion, malnourished patients reported having worse HRQOL symptoms compared with well‐nourished patients. Routine nutrition and psychosocial assessment through PG‐SGA and EORTC tools might help identify patients in need of nutrition and psychosocial care.
Boost your students’ satisfaction, ROI by bringing career services into the classroom
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2020

CHICAGO — It's no secret that many adult learners return to higher education to secure better or more high‐paying careers. But how well is your institution providing them with the skills they'll need to succeed in the marketplace? And are you introducing them to professionals who might help them reach new career milestones? Moving career services into the classroom, and integrating them as part of the university experience, is one way to ensure your adult learners find the career counseling and professional opportunities they're looking for.
Choose guiding over disciplining staff members
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: March 2020

Only the worst employees need to be disciplined. Everyone else needs your guidance. My father taught me that principle, not in so many words but in the way he lived. I know because I observed him at his job many, many times.
Prioritize collegiality, respect, innovation in your interactions with faculty, staff
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: March 2020

From nurse‐practitioner and nurse‐midwife to Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Northern Michigan University, Kerri Schuiling's career has been interesting and challenging.
Relatively low sex hormone‐binding globulin concentration is a risk factor for hyperuricemia in middle‐aged Japanese men
Authors: Fujihara Yuya , Hamanoue Nobuya , Akehi Yuko , Motonaga Ryoko , Tanaka Tomoko , Iwaya Chikayo , Yano Hiromi , Tanabe Makito , Nomiyama Takashi , Yanase Toshihiko
Published: March 2020

Objective

Low testosterone and hyperuricemia are associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, little is known about the nature of the relationships between serum testosterone and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) concentrations, and hyperuricemia.

Methods

We evaluated the relationships between serum testosterone (calculated bioavailable testosterone [cbT], calculated free testosterone [cFT], SHBG, and total testosterone [TT]) and metabolic indices, including serum uric acid, in 363 Japanese males (mean age 51.1 ± 8.7 years) at routine health examinations.

Results

Participants with hyperuricemia (≥7.0 mg/dL) demonstrated lower adiponectin, cbT, cFT, SHBG, and TT, but a higher MetS prevalence and higher values of various MetS‐related parameters than those without hyperuricemia (<7.0 mg/dL). Binary regression analysis revealed that less than 52 nmol/L SHBG, less than 5.0 μg/mL serum adiponectin, greater than or equal to 7.0 g/dL total protein, and greater than or equal to 1.0 mg/dL creatinine were statistically significant risk factors for hyperuricemia. Receiver operating characteristic analysis confirmed that less than 46.5 nmol/L (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.645) SHBG and less than 3.68 μg/mL (AUC = 0.691) adiponectin concentrations were significant risk factors for hyperuricemia.

Conclusions

We provide evidence that low SHBG provides an important marker for hyperuricemia in middle‐aged Japanese men. This finding provides clinical evidence that low SHBG is closely associated with MetS, which is often accompanied with hyperuricemia.