bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of PRP and LyPRP on osteogenic differentiation of MSCs
Authors: Xie Yuxing , Chen Manyu , Chen Yafang , Xu Yang , Sun Yong , Liang Jie , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong
Published: September 2019

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) is rich in a variety of growth factors and plays an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). It has been reported that the preparation of freeze‐dried platelets (lyophilized platelets [LyPRP]) from platelets could be an effective strategy to preserve the bioactivity of platelets for a long time. In this study, the osteogenic induction effects of PRP and LyPRP on MSCs were evaluated. The rabbit arterial blood was drawing to preparation of PRP by secondary centrifugation. Whole blood was prepared by lyophilization buffer to prepare LyPRP, which were activated by chloride and their surface morphology was observed. It was observed using a scanning electron microscope that platelets were evenly distributed on the surface of PRP and LyPRP. Growth factors were slowly released from PRP and LyPRP during the first 7 days and detected by the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. Cell proliferation assays and fluoresceindiacetate/propidium iodide (FDA/PI) staining demonstrated that PRP and LyPRP could promote cell proliferation. PRP and LyPRP were also shown to promote osteogenic differentiation of MSCs in vitro by osteogenesis characteristic staining and qPCR quantitative detection of osteogenic related gene expression. Both PRP and LyPRP could promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of MSCs effectively. Moreover, PRP exhibited a better osteogenic induction effect on MSC than LyPRP.
Urban–Rural Differences in Hip Fracture Mortality: A Nationwide NOREPOS Study
Authors: Solbakken Siri M , Magnus Jeanette H , Meyer Haakon E , Dahl Cecilie , Stigum Hein , Søgaard Anne J , Holvik Kristin , Tell Grethe S , Emaus Nina , Forsmo Siri , Gjesdal Clara G , Schei Berit , Vestergaard Peter , Omsland Tone K
Published: September 2019

Higher hip fracture incidence in urban than in rural areas has been demonstrated, but urban–rural differences in posthip fracture mortality have been less investigated, and the results are disparate. Hence, the aims of the present register‐based cohort study were to examine possible urban–rural differences in short‐ and long‐term mortality in Norwegian hip fracture patients and their potential associations with sociodemographic variables, and to investigate possible urban–rural differences in excess mortality in hip fracture patients compared with the general population. Data were provided from the NOREPOS hip fracture database, the 2001 Population and Housing Census, and the National Registry. The urbanization degree in each municipality was determined by the proportion of inhabitants living in densely populated areas (rural: <1/3, semirural: 1/3 to 2/3, and urban: >2/3). Age‐adjusted mortality rates and standardized mortality ratios were calculated for hip fracture patients living in rural, semirural, and urban municipalities. A flexible parametric model was used to estimate age‐adjusted average and time‐varying HRs by category of urbanization with the rural category as reference. Among 96,693 hip fracture patients, urban residents had higher mortality than their rural‐dwelling counterparts. The HR of mortality in urban compared with rural areas peaked during the first 1 to 2 years postfracture with a maximum HR of 1.20 (95% CI, 1.10 to 1.30) in men and 1.15 (95% CI, 1.08 to 1.21) in women. The differences were significant during approximately 5 years after fracture. Adjusting for sociodemographic variables did not substantially change the results. However, absolute 30‐day mortality was not significantly different between urban and rural residents, suggesting that health‐care quality immediately postfracture does not vary by urbanization. The novel findings of a higher long‐term mortality in urban hip fracture patients might reflect disparities in health status or lifestyle, differences in posthip fracture health care or rehabilitation, or a combination of several factors. © 2019 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Perceived Everyday Discrimination and Depressive Symptoms: Does Cognitive Style Mediate?
Authors: Hayes Lauren , Pössel Patrick , Roane Sarah J.
Published: September 2019

In the hopelessness theory of depression, a causal chain from stressors (e.g., perceived everyday discrimination [PED]) to 5 negative cognitive styles (NCSs) and depressive symptoms is delineated. In a sample of 243 diverse community college students, PED was positively associated with 4 NCSs. Furthermore, 2 specific NCSs were associated with depressive symptoms and mediated the effect between PED and depressive symptoms. Implications for research and practice with individuals who experience PED are discussed.
The protective effects of curcumin on cytotoxic and teratogenic activity of retinoic acid in mouse embryonic liver
Authors: Barandeh Behrouz , Amini Mahabadi Javad , Azadbakht Mehri , Gheibi Hayat Seyed Mohammad , Amini Ali
Published: September 2019

Background

Retinoic acid (RA) is a synthetic vitamin derivative. It exerts toxic and teratogenic effects on the development of embryonic organs in dose‐ and time‐dependent manners in mice. Curcumin is a compound obtained from rhizomes of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and has protective effects on teratogenic agents. The current study examined the effects of curcumin on embryos treated with RA.

Methods

A total of 24 female NMRI mice (8‐week‐old pregnant mice) were investigated in the current study. All of them were treated for 10 days during days 15 to 50 of pregnancy. In the first group, the animals were fed with normal diets (control); in the second group, with 60 mg/kg all‐
trans RA; in the third group, with 10 mg/kg curcumin; and in the fourth group, with RA and curcumin in their diets. The animals were killed by cervical dislocation at the 18th day of pregnancy and embryos were separated from the uteruses. The embryo weight and crown rump (CR) length were measured, and the SPSS software was used to analyze data.

Results

There was a significant increase in the lengths of CR and weights of embryos after using curcumin, but RA had no effect on the length of CR and weight of embryos at a dose of 60 mg/kg. Morphometric assay of liver tissue was performed, and data analysis indicated that there were significant differences between groups in terms of morphometric parameters of liver tissue. Therefore, RA increased the cell number and sinusoid diameter and decreased the cell areas in the embryonic liver tissue. However, curcumin decreased these side effects of RA on the embryonic liver tissue.

Conclusion

The results indicated that curcumin could decrease the toxic and teratogenic effects of RA in mouse embryos.
Aspirin inhibits osteoclast formation and wear‐debris‐induced bone destruction by suppressing mitogen‐activated protein kinases
Authors: Shi Jiawei , Wang Zhen , Guo Xiaobin , Shen Jining , Sun Houyi , Bai Jiaxiang , Yu Binqing , Wang Liangliang , Zhou Wei , Liu Yu , Zhang Wen , Yang Huilin , Xu Yaozeng , Zhou Jun , Geng Dechun
Published: September 2019

Excessive osteoclast recruitment and activation is the chief cause of periprosthetic osteolysis and subsequent aseptic loosening, so blocking osteolysis may be useful for protecting against osteoclastic bone resorption. We studied the effect of aspirin on titanium (Ti)‐particle‐induced osteolysis in vivo and in vitro using male C57BL/6J mice randomized to sham (sham surgery), Ti (Ti particles), low‐dose aspirin (Ti/5 mg·kg−1·d−1 aspirin), and high‐dose aspirin (Ti/30 mg·kg−1·d−1 aspirin). After 2 weeks, a three‐dimensional reconstruction evaluation using micro‐computed tomography and histomorphology assessment were performed on murine calvariae. Murine hematopoietic macrophages and RAW264.7 lineage cells were studied to investigate osteoclast formation and function. Aspirin attenuated Ti‐particle‐induced bone erosion and reduced osteoclasts. In vitro, aspirin suppressed osteoclast formation, osteoclastic‐related gene expression, and osteoclastic bone erosion in a dose‐dependent manner. Mechanically, aspirin reduced osteoclast formation by suppressing receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa‐B ligand‐induced activation of extracellular signal‐related kinase, p‐38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase, and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase. Thus, aspirin may be a promising option for preventing and curing osteoclastic bone destruction, including peri‐implant osteolysis.
Students’ perceptions of general medicine following community‐based medical education in rural Japan
Authors: Ohta Ryuichi , Ryu Yoshinori , Katsube Takuji , Moriwaki Yoshihiro , Otani Jun
Published: September 2019

Background

Japan's population is rapidly aging, and at the same time, the number of medical students interested in general or family medicine is declining. Community‐based medical education (CBME) programs may be used to promote interest and competencies in general medicine among medical students.

Method

This mixed‐method study investigated the perceptions of fifth‐ and sixth year undergraduate medical students who completed a two week CBME course in Unnan, a small city in rural Japan. The participants completed two survey questionnaires: (a) The achievement questionnaire administered pre‐ and posttraining, and (b) the curriculum content questionnaire administered posttraining. To understand the students’ perceptions about general medicine further, semistructured interviews were conducted with each participant post‐CBME training.

Results

The participants’ ratings on the achievement survey improved significantly from pre‐ to posttraining. The average ratings for the curriculum content survey indicated that the educational objectives were met in all but one area. A qualitative analysis of the interview data revealed that the participants had little exposure to general medicine at their university hospital, and there was a lack of understanding in other medical professionals regarding the roles of general medicine physicians.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that there are educational gaps between medical universities and community hospitals regarding general medicine. Increased exposure, early exposure, and a clarification of the competencies were noted as areas to improve the students’ understanding of general medicine. Undergraduates should be exposed to general medicine more frequently and from early training stages through effective collaborations between universities and hospitals.
Erratum: The average degree of an edge‐chromatic critical graph II
Authors: Woodall Douglas R.
Published: September 2019

In the article “The average degree of an edge‐chromatic critical graph II” by Douglas R. Woodall (J. Graph Theory 56 (2007), 194‐218), it was claimed that the average degree of an edge‐chromatic critical graph with maximum degree is at least if , at least if , and at least if . Unfortunately there were mistakes in the proof of the last two of these results, which are now proved only if and , respectively.
HIV viral suppression among pregnant and breastfeeding women in routine care in the Kinshasa province: a baseline evaluation of participants in CQI‐PMTCT study
Authors: Yotebieng Marcel , Mpody Christian , Ravelomanana Noro LR , Tabala Martine , Malongo Fathy , Kawende Bienvenu , Ntangu Paul , Behets Frieda , Okitolonda Emile ,   for the CQI‐PMTCT study team
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Published data on viral suppression among pregnant and breastfeeding women in routine care settings are scarce. Here, we report provincial estimates of undetectable and suppressed viral load among pregnant or breastfeeding women in HIV care in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and associated risk factors.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted as part of a baseline assessment for the CQI‐PMTCT study: an ongoing cluster randomized trial to evaluate the effect of continuous quality interventions (CQI) on long‐term ART outcomes among pregnant and breastfeeding women (NCT03048669). From November 2016 to June 2018, in each of the 35 Kinshasa provincial health zones (HZ), study teams visited the three busiest maternal and child health clinics, enrolled all HIV‐positive pregnant or breastfeeding women (≤1 year post‐delivery) receiving ART, and performed viral load testing. Log binomial models with generalized estimating equations to account for clustering at the HZ level, were used to estimate prevalence ratios comparing participants with undetected (<40 copies/mL) or suppressed (<1000 copies/mL) viral load across levels of individual and site characteristics.

Results

Of the 1752 eligible women, 1623 had viral load results available, including 38% who had been on ART for <6 months and 74% were on tenofovir‐lamivudine‐efavirenz. Viral load was undetectable in 53% of women and suppressed in 62%. Among women who were on ART for ≥12 months, only 60% and 67% respectively, had undetectable or suppressed viral load. Viral load was undetectable in 53%, 48% and 58% of women testing during pregnancy, at delivery, and in postpartum respectively. In multivariable log binomial models, duration of ART >12 months, older age, being married, disclosure of HIV status, receiving care in an urban health zone or one supported by PEPFAR were all positively associated with viral suppression.

Conclusions

The observed high level of detectable viral load suggests that high ART coverage alone without substantial efforts to improve the quality of care for pregnant and breastfeeding women, will not be enough to achieve the goal of virtual elimination of vertical HIV transmission in high‐burden and limited resources settings like DRC.
Triangulating Creativity: Examining Discrepancies Across Self‐Rated, Quasi‐Expert‐Rated and Verbalized Creativity in Arts‐based Learning
Authors: Katz‐Buonincontro Jen , Hass Richard , Perignat Elaine
Published: September 2019

This convergent mixed methods study examined the triangulation of self‐rated, quasi‐expert‐rated and verbalized creativity in students enrolled in a year‐long photography program. The quantitative data included self‐report scales in creativity, and ratings of creativity in students’ photography. The qualitative data included student interviews reflecting on their photographs and verbalizing their beliefs about creativity. The data were first analyzed separately and then merged for analysis to determine possible relationships between these three data sources. Merging quantitative and qualitative data highlighted two key discrepancies between students’ actual creative performance and their perceptions as creative individuals. Possible explanations of these disceprancies are discussed in light of research on creative self‐efficacy and creative mindsets.
Repeated Metabolic Balance Studies in Patients With Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Sun Haifeng , Eliasson Johanna , Fuglsang Kristian A. , Hvistendahl Mark , Naimi Rahim M. , Jeppesen Palle B.
Published: September 2019

Background

Weaning from parenteral support is considered indirect evidence of intestinal adaptation in patients with short bowel syndrome (SBS), but direct evidence is lacking. The objective of this study was to examine if intestinal adaptation could be demonstrated as increase in intestinal absorption of energy and wet weight over time measured by repeated metabolic balance studies (MBSs) and to examine whether adaptation was determined by the anatomy of the remnant bowel.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed data from 48 repeated MBSs performed in 13 adult patients with SBS. Results were presented graphically and interpreted. The interpatient and intrapatient heterogeneity was compared based on anatomy of the remnant bowel.

Results

The number of repeated MBSs ranged from 2 to 7, and time between last intestinal resection and MBS from 5 months to 18.1 years. In 6 patients, the first MBS was performed within 2 years after last resection, but only 1 patient had repeated MBSs within this period. Nine patients had an end jejunoileostomy, and 4 patients had a jejuno‐colonic or ileo‐colonic anastomosis. None of the patients had jejunoileal anastomosis with a preserved ileocecal valve. Interpatient and intrapatient heterogeneity of wet weight and energy absorption was larger in patients without colon in continuity. The wet weight and energy absorption data showed no tendency toward intestinal adaptation in any anatomical group.

Conclusion

We observed no signs of late‐phase intestinal adaptation in this selected group of patients with SBS. Future prospective MBSs are needed to understand the time course and magnitude of intestinal adaptation.
Evolution of sea‐surface conditions on the northwestern Greenland margin during the Holocene
Authors: Caron Myriam , Rochon André , Montero‐Serrano Jean‐Carlos , St‐Onge Guillaume
Published: September 2019

Reconstructions of sea‐surface conditions during the Holocene were achieved on two sediment cores from the northwest Greenland margin (AMD14‐204) and Kane Basin (AMD14‐Kane2B) based on dinoflagellate cyst assemblages. On the northwest Greenland margin, sea‐surface conditions were cold with an extended sea ice cover prior to 7750 cal a bp associated with the end of the deglaciation. A major change occurred around ca. 7750 cal a bp with enhanced influence of warmer water from the West Greenland Current, and optimal sea‐surface conditions were observed around 6000 cal a bp. After 3350 cal a bp, results reflect the establishment of the modern assemblages. In the Kane Basin, sea‐surface conditions were not favourable for dinocyst productivity prior to 7880 cal a bp, as the basin was still largely covered by ice. The presence of warmer water is recorded between 7880 and 7200 cal a bp and the highest primary productivity between 5200 and 2100 cal a bp, but sea‐surface conditions remained cold with an extended sea ice cover throughout the Holocene. Overall, the results from this study revealed the strong influence of meltwater discharges and oceanic current variability on the sea‐surface conditions. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical bonding mechanism in SERS effect of pyridine by CuO nanoparticles
Authors: Martinez Nuñez C.E. , Delgado‐Beleño Y. , Rocha‐Rocha O. , Calderón‐Ayala G. , Florez‐López N.S. , Cortez Valadez M.
Published: September 2019

This article reports the theoretical and experimental study of nonresonant mechanisms (CHEM) of surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) of pyridine (Py). An improvement in the Raman dispersion intensity of Py is determined after the chemical absorption on CuO nanoparticles synthesized in NaCl. The density functional theory predicts the formation of new electronic states as result of the chemical bond (CB) established between the Py molecule and the (CuO)n clusters. This study is focused on the study of the most intense vibrational modes of Py before and after chemical adsorption. The CHEM by CB mechanisms is found as responsible for the SERS effect in Py.
Raman diagnostics of free charge carriers in boron‐doped silicon nanowires
Authors: Rodichkina S.P. , Nychyporuk T. , Pavlikov A.V. , Lysenko V. , Timoshenko V.Yu.
Published: September 2019

Raman spectroscopy is used to probe free charge carriers in layers of silicon nanowires (SiNWs) formed by metal‐assisted chemical etching of crystalline silicon (c‐Si) wafers followed by additional doping with boron. One‐phonon Raman spectra of the boron‐doped SiNWs are strongly modified due to the Fano effect that allowed us to determine the free carrier concentration in the nanowires in the range from 1019 to 1020 cm−3, depending on the doping conditions. The micro‐Raman mapping was used to determine the depth profile of charge carrier density along nanowires, which decreases toward the SiNWs/c‐Si interface. The obtained results are discussed in view of possible applications of the Raman spectroscopy for express‐diagnostics of doped Si nanostructures for photonics and thermoelectric applications.
Role of voice rest following laser resection of vocal fold lesions: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dhaliwal Sandeep S. , Doyle Philip C. , Failla Sebastiano , Hawkins Sarah , Fung Kevin
Published: September 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Voice rest is often prescribed following phonosurgery by most surgeons despite limited empiric evidence to support its practice. This study assessed the effect of postphonosurgery voice rest on vocal outcomes.

Study Design

Prospective, randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Patients with unilateral vocal fold lesions undergoing CO2 laser excision were recruited in a prospective manner and randomized into one of two groups: 1) an experimental arm consisting of 7 days of absolute voice rest, or 2) a control arm consisting of no voice rest. The primary outcome measure was the Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10) questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included aerodynamic measurements (maximum phonation time), acoustic measures (fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, and harmonic‐to‐noise ratio), and auditory‐perceptual measures. Primary and secondary outcomes were assessed preoperatively and reassessed postoperatively at the 1‐ and 3‐month follow‐up. Patient compliance to voice rest instructions were controlled for using subjective and objective parameters.

Results

Thirty patients were enrolled with 15 randomized to each arm of the study. Statistical analysis for the entire cohort showed a significant improvement in the mean preoperative VHI‐10 compared to postoperative assessments at 1‐month (19.0 vs. 7.3, P < .05) and 3‐month (19.0 vs. 6.2, P < .05) follow‐up. However, between‐group comparisons showed no significant difference in postoperative VHI‐10 at either time point. Similarly, secondary outcome measures yielded no significant difference in between‐group comparisons.

Conclusions

Our study shows no significant benefit to voice rest on postoperative voice outcomes as determined by patient self‐perception, acoustic variables, and auditory‐perceptual analysis.

Level of Evidence

1b

Clinical Trial Number

NCT02788435 (clinicaltrials.gov) Laryngoscope, 130:1750–1755, 2020
Collagen analysis with mass spectrometry
Authors: van Huizen Nick A. , Ijzermans Jan N.M. , Burgers Peter C. , Luider Theo M.
Published: September 2019

Mass spectrometry‐based techniques can be applied to investigate collagen with respect to identification, quantification, supramolecular organization, and various post‐translational modifications. The continuous interest in collagen research has led to a shift from techniques to analyze the physical characteristics of collagen to methods to study collagen abundance and modifications. In this review, we illustrate the potential of mass spectrometry for in‐depth analyses of collagen.
New survey finds most Americans think ADHD overdiagnosed
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2019

A majority of adults agree that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is overdiagnosed, according to a survey released by The Harris Poll, which revealed various attitudes and perceptions about treating ADHD and managing the condition.
Global dynamics of a 3×6 exponential system of difference equations
Authors: Khan A. Q.
Published: September 2019

We study the global dynamics of following 3×6 exponential system of difference equations:

where parameters αi,βi,γi (i=1,2,3) and initial conditions xi,yi,zi (i=0,−1) are nonnegative real numbers. The proposed work is considerably extended and improve some existing results in the literature. Finally, theoretical results are verified by numerical simulations.
Meromorphic exact solutions of the generalized (3+1)‐dimensional Kadomtsev‐Petviashvili equations
Authors: Li Hui , Li Ye‐Zhou
Published: September 2019

In this work, the generalized (3+1)‐dimensional Kadomtsev‐Petviashvili equation and its new form have been systematically investigated by using the complex method. The method is based on complex analysis and complex differential equations. And we get plentiful meromorphic exact solutions of these equations, which include rational solutions, exponential function solutions, and elliptic function solutions. The dynamic behaviors of these solutions are also shown by some graphs.
A single‐layer Ka‐band broadband reflectarray antenna using log‐periodic elements
Authors: Zhao Jianing , Li Hao , Zhou Yihong , Wang Haiyang , Li Tianming , Hu Biao , Zou Huan
Published: September 2019

This letter presents a novel log‐periodic reflectarray element based on a single‐layer substrate. To achieve a full 360° phase coverage with a gentle slope, the corresponding parameters are optimized. For the sake of minimizing the effects of the feed blockage, the proposed element is used to construct a Ka‐band offset‐fed reflectarray antenna whose aperture size is 81 mm × 81 mm. Moreover, a corresponding prototype is also fabricated to test the actual radiation performance. The measured maximum gain is 26.65 dB at the center frequency of 33 GHz with the aperture efficiency of 46.34%. Moreover, the measured peak sidelobe for E‐plane is lower than −17.87 dB and 10.69% of 1‐dB gain bandwidth is also achieved, which demonstrates that the proposed antenna features the characteristic of broadband. The simulated and measured results show that the proposed antenna features good radiation performance, which has the potential for 5G communication systems.
Statistical properties of cerebral CT perfusion imaging systems. Part II. Deconvolution‐based systems
Authors: Li Ke , Chen Guang‐Hong
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to develop a theoretical framework to pinpoint the quantitative relationship between input parameters of deconvolution‐based cerebral computed tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging systems and statistical properties of the output perfusion maps.

Methods

Deconvolution‐based CTP systems assume that the arterial input function, tissue enhancement curve, and flow‐scaled residue function k(t) are related to each other through a convolution model, and thus by reversing the convolution operation, k(t) and the associated perfusion parameters can be estimated. The theoretical analysis started by deriving analytical formulas for the expected value and autocovariance of the residue function estimated using the singular value decomposition‐based deconvolution method. Next, it analyzed statistical properties of the “max” and “arg max” operators, based on which the signal and noise properties of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and time‐to‐max () are quantitatively related to the statistical model of the estimated residue function [] and system parameters. To validate the theory, CTP images of a digital head phantom were simulated, from which signal and noise of each perfusion parameter were measured and compared with values calculated using the theoretical model. In addition, an in vivo canine experiment was performed to validate the noise model of cerebral blood volume (CBV).

Results

For the numerical study, the relative root mean squared error between the measured and theoretically calculated value is ≤0.21% for the autocovariance matrix of , and is ≤0.13% for the expected form of . A Bland–Altman analysis demonstrated no significant difference between measured and theoretical values for the mean or noise of each perfusion parameter. For the animal study, the theoretical CBV noise fell within the 25th and 75th percentiles of the experimental values. To provide an example of the theory’s utility, an expansion of the CBV noise formula was performed to unveil the dominant role of the baseline image noise in deconvolution‐based CBV. Correspondingly, data of the three canine subjects used in the Part I paper were retrospectively processed to confirm that preferentially partitioning dose to the baseline frames benefits both nondeconvolution‐ and deconvolution‐based CBV maps.

Conclusions

Quantitative relationships between the statistical properties of deconvolution‐based CTP maps, source image acquisition and reconstruction parameters, contrast injection protocol, and deconvolution parameters are established.
Automated static and moveout corrections of high‐resolution seismic data from the Baltic Sea
Authors: Reiche Sönke , Berkels Benjamin , Weiß Benedikt
Published: September 2019

High‐frequency multichannel seismic systems provide detailed images of the shallow marine subsurface. In order to exploit the redundancy inherent in such data optimally, traveltime corrections need to account for normal moveout and static effects due to vertical source and receiver variations. Misalignment of reflections in common‐midpoint gathers will significantly lower the frequency content in the final stack, making this correction particularly important for very high‐frequency seismic data. Traditionally, normal moveout correction involves labour‐intensive picking of stacking velocities, while static corrections can be, by some techniques, performed automatically. In this paper, we present a high‐frequency seismic case study from the Baltic Sea, using seismic image matching as a novel, fully automated technique to perform joint moveout and static corrections. Our multichannel test profiles were acquired offshore Rügen island for wind farm development. Owing to the regular passage of up to 1.5 m high ocean waves during data acquisition, these boomer profiles suffer from strong static effects. We perform joint normal moveout and static corrections by defining the nearest common offset section as a fixed reference frame and minimizing its difference in traveltime with respect to all available common offset sections. Time shifts are computed independent of a pre‐defined traveltime curve, using the normalized cross‐correlation as a measure of data similarity while penalizing irregular displacements by a regularization term. Time shifts are converted to stacking velocities based on the traditional hyperbolic traveltime equation. Our results are compared with those derived by conventional manual velocity analysis and subsequent trim static corrections. We find that image matching produces stacks of similar quality and stacking velocity models of similar to slightly better quality compared with the conventionally derived ones, revealing the potential of this technique to automatize and significantly speed up this first part of the seismic processing chain.
Reluctant policy innovation through profit concession and informality tolerance: A strategic relational view of policy entrepreneurship in China's urban redevelopment
Authors: Hu Fox Z.Y. , Lin George C.S. , Yeh Anthony G.O. , He Shenjing , Liu Xingjian
Published: September 2019

This paper engages with the theoretical perspective of policy entrepreneurship to examine the pattern and process of policy change in the context of China's urban redevelopment. Drawing upon a strategic‐relational reinterpretation of policy entrepreneurship, this paper identifies a distinctive form of reluctant policy innovation in the “three old renewals” scheme initiated in Guangzhou where profit concession and informality tolerance were practiced to create a small window of opportunity for the project of urban redevelopment to break ground. The motivation of policy entrepreneurship in the successful urban renewal projects in Guangzhou was heavily contingent upon the geographically important location of the project site and the historically incidence of hosting the 2010 Asian Games, which forced municipal government to become entrepreneurial and innovative in decision making and income redistribution in order to get things done as quickly as possible. The distinct fashion of policy innovation identified in the case of Guangzhou points to the polymorphous and dynamic nature of policy entrepreneurship and advocates a relational treatment of the strategies and motives of policy entrepreneurs embedded in concrete geographical and historical context.
Generalization of adaptive cross approximation for time‐domain boundary element methods
Authors: Haider Anita Maria , Schanz Martin
Published: September 2019

A numerical approach to the solution of the wave equation is performed by means of the boundary element method. In the interest of increasing the efficiency of this method a low‐rank approximation such as the adaptive cross approximation is carried out. We discuss a generalization of the adaptive cross approximation to approximate a three‐dimensional array of data. In particular, we perform an approximation of an array of boundary element matrices in the Laplace domain. The proposed scheme is illustrated by preliminary numerical experiments.
Sex selection and non‐invasive prenatal testing: A review of current practices, evidence, and ethical issues
Authors: Bowman‐Smart Hilary , Savulescu Julian , Gyngell Christopher , Mand Cara , Delatycki Martin B.
Published: September 2019

Non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) can determine the sex of the fetus very accurately and very early in gestation. There are concerns that the ease, timing, and accuracy of NIPT sex determination will facilitate sex‐selective termination of pregnancy (TOP). Here, we review current practices, the evidence for a link between NIPT and sex‐selective TOP, and associated ethical issues. Sex‐selective TOP, usually motivated by son preference, has had serious demographic consequences in countries such as India and China. Currently, ultrasound is the primary method by which parents determine the sex of the fetus. The diffusion of ultrasound technology has had a direct impact on the rates of sex‐selective TOP. Although NIPT is currently more costly, it is feasible that increased uptake of this technology could have a similar effect. Partly because NIPT is a relatively recent development in prenatal screening, there is little data on the impact of NIPT on sex selection practices. Evidence that NIPT is playing a role in sex‐selective TOP remains largely anecdotal. Further research is required to assess and quantify TOP resulting from NIPT sex determination. The use of these technologies for sex selection raises a number of ethical issues, in addition to practical demographic consequences.
Evaluation of Patients with Heart Failure to Determine Eligibility for Treatment with Sacubitril/Valsartan: Insights from a Veterans Administration Healthcare System
Authors: Han Jamie , Chung Francisco , Nguyen Quyen L. , Mody Freny Vaghaiwalla , Jackevicius Cynthia A.
Published: September 2019

Study Objective

Despite evidence that supports the use of sacubitril/valsartan – the first angiotensin II receptor blocker–neprilysin inhibitor – for mortality reduction in patients with heart failure (HF), it remains underprescribed. The objective of this study was to evaluate eligibility for initiation of sacubitril/valsartan treatment in patients with HF within the largest Veterans Administration healthcare system in the United States.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS).

Patients

A total of 2985 patients with a HF diagnosis who were alive as of November 1, 2017.

Measurements and Main Results

Eligibility for sacubitril/valsartan initiation was based on inclusion and exclusion criteria from the Prospective Comparison of Angiotensin Receptor–Neprilysin Inhibitor with Angiotensin‐Converting–Enzyme Inhibitor to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure (PARADIGM‐HF) trial and the VA Criteria for Use. The proportion of eligible patients was estimated, and characteristics of eligible patients were compared with those in the PARADIGM‐HF trial. Of the 2985 patients with HF who were alive as of November 1, 2017, 965 (32.3%) had HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Of these patients with HFrEF, 263 (27.3%) fulfilled eligibility criteria and were considered candidates for sacubitril/valsartan initiation. Of the 702 patients who did not fulfil eligibility criteria, the most common reasons were New York Heart Association functional class I (35.3%) and B‐type natriuretic peptide level of 100 pg/ml or lower (22.2%). Compared with patients in the PARADIGM‐HF trial, VAGLAHS patients were older (70.4 vs 63.8 yrs) and more likely to be male (98.5% vs 79.0%), and a higher proportion had New York Heart Association functional class III symptoms (35.4% vs 23.1%). Of the 965 patients with HFrEF, 34 (3.5%) had an active sacubitril/valsartan prescription as of November 1, 2017, of whom 27 (79.4%) did not meet criteria.

Conclusion

Whereas 27% of patients with HFrEF were eligible to initiate sacubitril/valsartan, only 3.5% of these patients were prescribed the medication. Although sacubitril/valsartan reduced morbidity and mortality in clinical trials, it remains underused within this VA healthcare system. This analysis provides important insights into the VA and other healthcare systems regarding the opportunity for optimizing guideline‐directed HF therapy.
Construction of a Dual Drug Carrier on the Basis of Hollow Structured Upconversion Nanoparticles for pH‐Responsive Drug Delivery and UCL/MRI Dual Mode Imaging
Authors: Liu Yana , Feng Yiming , Xu Chen , He Hailu , Zhang Yongqi , Xu Zushun , Li Ling , Wang Jing
Published: September 2019

A series of Gd3+ doping hollow upconversion nanoparticles NaYF4:Yb,Gd,Tm (h‐UNCP) are prepared successfully. The hollow NaYF4:Yb,Gd,Tm possess excellent upconversion luminescence (UCL) and large longitudinal relativity (r1 = 128.3 mm−1 s−1), which can be potentially used for UCL/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) dual mode imaging. On the basis of the optimal h‐UCNP, doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) and methotrexate (MTX) are used as drug models to prepare a dual drug carrier. After the encapsulation of DOX on the h‐UCNP, chitosan (CS) is further wrapped and then used to load MTX to obtain a dual drug carrier h‐UCNPs/DOX/CS/MTX. The pH responsive release of DOX and MTX is discussed. The MTX release climbs from 33% to 100% by regulating the pH from 5.8 to 7.4. The DOX release is different at different pH conditions. The synergistic effect of DOX and MTX on the cancer cells is confirmed by cell viability. The h‐UCNPs/DOX/CS/MTX are tracked by cells UCL imaging and vivo MRI imaging. The excellent performance of UCL imaging and positive MRI images demonstrates that h‐UCNPs/DOX/CS/MTX can be used for UCL/MRI dual mode imaging. All the results show the potential application of h‐UCNPs/DOX/CS/MTX in pH responsive release and UCL/MRI dual imaging.
Integration of the Rosetta suite with the python software stack via reproducible packaging and core programming interfaces for distributed simulation
Authors: Ford Alexander S. , Weitzner Brian D. , Bahl Christopher D.
Published: September 2019

The Rosetta software suite for macromolecular modeling is a powerful computational toolbox for protein design, structure prediction, and protein structure analysis. The development of novel Rosetta‐based scientific tools requires two orthogonal skill sets: deep domain‐specific expertise in protein biochemistry and technical expertise in development, deployment, and analysis of molecular simulations. Furthermore, the computational demands of molecular simulation necessitate large scale cluster‐based or distributed solutions for nearly all scientifically relevant tasks. To reduce the technical barriers to entry for new development, we integrated Rosetta with modern, widely adopted computational infrastructure. This allows simplified deployment in large‐scale cluster and cloud computing environments, and effective reuse of common libraries for simulation execution and data analysis. To achieve this, we integrated Rosetta with the Conda package manager; this simplifies installation into existing computational environments and packaging as docker images for cloud deployment. Then, we developed programming interfaces to integrate Rosetta with the PyData stack for analysis and distributed computing, including the popular tools Jupyter, Pandas, and Dask. We demonstrate the utility of these components by generating a library of a thousand de novo disulfide‐rich miniproteins in a hybrid simulation that included cluster‐based design and interactive notebook‐based analyses. Our new tools enable users, who would otherwise not have access to the necessary computational infrastructure, to perform state‐of‐the‐art molecular simulation and design with Rosetta.
Phase 1b trial of docetaxel, prednisone, and pazopanib in men with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: George Daniel J. , Halabi Susan , Healy Patrick , Barak Ian , Winters Carolyn , Anand Monika , Wilder Rhonda , Klein Melissa , Martinez Elia , Nixon Andrew B. , Harrison Michael R. , Szmulewitz Russell , Armstrong Andrew J.
Published: September 2019

Background

Docetaxel prednisone is a standard of care for men with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), and plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels are a poor prognostic factor in this population; therefore, we evaluated the combination of docetaxel prednisone with pazopanib, an oral VEGF receptor inhibitor, for safety and preliminary efficacy.

Methods

This is a two‐site phase 1b Department of Defense Prostate Cancer Clinical Trials Consortium trial of docetaxel, prednisone, and pazopanib once daily and ongoing androgen deprivation therapy and prophylactic pegfilgrastim in men with mCRPC. The primary endpoint was safety and the determination of a maximum tolerated dose (MTD) through a dose‐escalation and expansion design; secondary endpoints included progression‐free and overall survival (OS), prostate specific antigen (PSA) declines, radiographic responses, and pharmacokinetic and plasma angiokine biomarker analyses.

Results

Twenty‐five men were treated over six dose levels. Pegfilgrastim was added to the regimen after myelosuppression limited dose escalation. With pegfilgrastim, our target MTD of docetaxel 75 mg/m2 q3 weeks; prednisone 10 mg daily; and pazopanib 800 mg daily was reached. Eleven additional patients were accrued at this dose level for a total of 36 patients. Dose‐limiting toxicities included neutropenia, syncope, and hypertension. Three deaths attributed to study treatment occurred. The objective response rate was 31%; median PFS was 14.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.1 and 22.2); and OS was 18.6 months (95% CI: 11.8 and 22.2).

Conclusions

The combination of docetaxel, prednisone, and pazopanib (with pegfilgrastim) was tolerable at full doses and demonstrated promising efficacy in a relatively poor risk patients with mCRPC. Further development of predictive biomarkers may enrich for patients who receive clinical benefit from this regimen.
Li+‐Containing, Continuous Silica Nanofibers for High Li+ Conductivity in Composite Polymer Electrolyte
Authors: Yu Jianming , Wang Chao , Li Shiheng , Liu Nian , Zhu Jia , Lu Zhenda
Published: September 2019

Solid‐state electrolytes have recently attracted significant attention toward safe and high‐energy lithium chemistries. In particular, polyethylene oxide (PEO)‐based composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs) have shown outstanding mechanical flexibility and manufacturing feasibility. However, their limited ionic conductivity, poor electrochemical stability, and insufficient mechanical strength are yet to be addressed. In this work, a novel CPE supported by Li+‐containing SiO2 nanofibers is developed. The nanofibers are obtained via sol–gel electrospinning, during which lithium sulfate is in situ introduced into the nanofibers. The uniform doping of Li2SO4 in SiO2 nanofibers increases the Li+ conductivity of SiO2, generates mesopores on the surface of SiO2 nanofibers, and improves the wettability between SiO2 and PEO. As a result, the obtained SiO2/Li2SO4/PEO CPE yields high Li+ conductivity (1.3 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 60 °C, ≈4.9 times the Li2SO4‐free CPE) and electrochemical stability. Furthermore, the all‐solid‐state LiFePO4‐Li full cell demonstrates stable cycling with high capacities (over 80 mAh g−1, 50 cycles at C/2 at 60 °C). The Li+‐containing mesoporous SiO2 nanofibers show great potential as the filler for CPEs. Similar methods can be used to incorporate Li salts into other filler materials for CPEs.
The Impact of Extra‐Disciplinary Socialization on Graduate Student Educational Developers
Authors: Riviere Jessica L. , Stewart Marissa C.
Published: September 2019

What particular concerns apply to educational developers whose professional identities are still solidifying?
Intersections of Identity and Power in Educational Development
Authors: Plank Kathryn M.
Published: September 2019

Educational developers must reflect upon our institutional roles and identities, however marginal they may seem, in order to do our work responsibly, sustainably, and effectively.
Robust gain scheduling baseline controller for floating offshore wind turbines
Authors: Lemmer (né Sandner) Frank , Yu Wei , Schlipf David , Cheng Po Wen
Published: September 2019

The possibility of a pitch instability for floating wind turbines, due to the blade‐pitch controller, has been discussed extensively in recent years. Contrary to many advanced multi‐input‐multi‐output controllers that have been proposed, this paper aims at a standard proportional‐integral type, only feeding back the rotor speed error. The advantage of this controller is its standard layout, equal to onshore turbines, and the clearly defined model‐based control design procedure, which can be fully automated. It is more robust than most advanced controllers because it does not require additional signals of the floating platform, which make controllers often sensitive to unmodeled dynamics. For the design of this controller, a tailored linearized coupled dynamic model of reduced order is used with a detailed representation of the hydrodynamic viscous drag. The stability margin is the main design criterion at each wind speed. This results in a gain scheduling function, which looks fundamentally different than the one of onshore turbines. The model‐based controller design process has been automated, dependent only on a given stability margin. In spite of the simple structure, the results show that the controller performance satisfies common design requirements of wind turbines, which is confirmed by a model of higher fidelity than the controller design model. The controller performance is compared against an advanced controller and the fixed‐bottom version of the same turbine, indicating clearly the different challenges of floating wind control and possible remedies.