bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rolling tuning microstructure and tensile properties of nano/microcrystalline 304 stainless steel
Authors: Shi Yu , La Peiqing , Han Yijun , Wei Fuan , Sheng Jie , Li Zhengning 
Published: September 2019

The effect of rolling parameters on microstructure and tensile properties of nanocrystalline/microcrystalline 304 stainless steel (SS) casted by the aluminothermic reaction was investigated in this work. It was found that majority of the nanocrystalline austenite of the 304 SS rolled at 700[Formula: see text]C and 900[Formula: see text]C grew up and transformed to sub-microcrystalline. While the nanocrystalline/microcrystalline structure still retained rolled at 900[Formula: see text]C with 40% deformation followed 600[Formula: see text]C with 70% thickness reduction, and microcrystalline austenite grains distributed evenly. The strength and ductility of the various rolled 304 SS were improved compared with the as-casted 304 SS steel. The steel rolled at 900[Formula: see text]C with 80% deformation exhibited a uniform elongation as large as 31.3%, which is almost the same ductility level of counterpart coarse-grained steel. The rolled steel at 700[Formula: see text]C with 80% deformation achieved the maximum tensile strength but the smallest elongation. The sample, two-step rolled at 900[Formula: see text]C with 40% thickness reduction and then 600[Formula: see text]C with 70% thickness reduction, yielded the satisfactory combination of strength and ductility. The yield strength and elongation were appropriate 767 MPa and 22.8%, respectively, which resulted from the optimized nanocrystalline/microcrystalline structure and distribution.
Intrinsic linking and knotting in tournaments
Authors: Fleming Thomas , Foisy Joel 
Published: September 2019

A directed graph [Formula: see text] is intrinsically linked if every embedding of that graph contains a nonsplit link [Formula: see text], where each component of [Formula: see text] is a consistently oriented cycle in [Formula: see text]. A tournament is a directed graph where each pair of vertices is connected by exactly one directed edge. We consider intrinsic linking and knotting in tournaments, and study the minimum number of vertices required for a tournament to have various intrinsic linking or knotting properties. We produce the following bounds: intrinsically linked ([Formula: see text]), intrinsically knotted ([Formula: see text]), intrinsically 3-linked ([Formula: see text]), intrinsically 4-linked ([Formula: see text]), intrinsically 5-linked ([Formula: see text]), intrinsically [Formula: see text]-linked ([Formula: see text]), intrinsically linked with knotted components ([Formula: see text]), and the disjoint linking property ([Formula: see text]). We also introduce the consistency gap, which measures the difference in the order of a graph required for intrinsic [Formula: see text]-linking in tournaments versus undirected graphs. We conjecture the consistency gap to be nondecreasing in [Formula: see text], and provide an upper bound at each [Formula: see text].
Macrophage Exclusion after Radiation Therapy (MERT): A First in Human Phase I/II Trial using a CXCR4 Inhibitor in Glioblastoma
Authors: Thomas Reena P. , Nagpal Seema , Iv Michael , Soltys Scott G. , Bertrand Sophie , Pelpola Judith S. , Ball Robyn , Yang Jaden , Sundaram Vandana , Chernikova Sophia B. , Lavezo Jonathan , Born Donald , Vogel Hannes , Brown J. Martin , Recht Lawrence D. 
Published: September 2019

Abstract

Purpose:
Preclinical studies have demonstrated that postirradiation tumor revascularization is dependent on a stromal cell–derived factor-1 (SDF-1)/C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4)-driven process in which myeloid cells are recruited from bone marrow. Blocking this axis results in survival improvement in preclinical models of solid tumors, including glioblastoma (GBM). We conducted a phase I/II study to determine the safety and efficacy of Macrophage Exclusion after Radiation Therapy (MERT) using the reversible CXCR4 inhibitor plerixafor in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma.

Patients and Methods:
We enrolled nine patients in the phase I study and an additional 20 patients in phase II using a modified toxicity probability interval (mTPI) design. Plerixafor was continuously infused intravenously via a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) line for 4 consecutive weeks beginning at day 35 of conventional treatment with concurrent chemoradiation. Blood serum samples were obtained for pharmacokinetic analysis. Additional studies included relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) analysis using MRI and histopathology analysis of recurrent tumors.

Results:
Plerixafor was well tolerated with no drug-attributable grade 3 toxicities observed. At the maximum dose of 400 μg/kg/day, biomarker analysis found suprathreshold plerixafor serum levels and an increase in plasma SDF-1 levels. Median overall survival was 21.3 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 15.9–NA] with a progression-free survival of 14.5 months (95% CI, 11.9–NA). MRI and histopathology support the mechanism of action to inhibit postirradiation tumor revascularization.

Conclusions:
Infusion of the CXCR4 inhibitor plerixafor was well tolerated as an adjunct to standard chemoirradiation in patients with newly diagnosed GBM and improves local control of tumor recurrences.
Pioglitazone, Nuclear Receptors, and Aerodigestive Prevention
Authors: Ondrey Frank G. 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
There has been intense interest in nuclear receptor targeting for cancer prevention. With the exception of estrogen antagonism in breast carcinoma there has not been widespread adoption or success of this strategy in clinical cancer prevention. Keith and colleagues have performed a careful study, which utilized the PPARγ nuclear receptor agonist, pioglitazone, a common type II diabetes agent, in subjects at risk for lung carcinoma. Although the results are not promising with this strategy, the study provides evidence for feasibility accrual and biomarker strategies that could be utilized to gain additional insight in future trials.
Intra-genomic variability and pseudogenes in ribosomal ITS regions of Paraplagusia blochii (Pleuronectiformes: Cynoglossidae)
Authors: Gong Li , Kong Xiaoyu , Luo Hairong , Chen Shixi , Shi Wei , Yang Min 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
Eukaryotic nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA) typically evolves in a concerted manner, in which hundreds of rDNA sequences within species show little or no variations, whereas the sequences of different species diverge. There are few studies of the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) in teleostean fishes and only one report on flatfishes. Here, we reported the discovery of two types of highly divergent ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequences (Type A and B) in the genome of the Bloch’s tonguesole, Paraplagusia blochii. These sequences mainly differ in sequence length, secondary structure, and minimum free energy. According to the potential features of pseudogenes, Type B sequences are speculated to be putative pseudogenic ITS regions. Cluster analyses also supported two major clades that corresponded to the sequence type. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the ITS regions of tonguefish, and may therefore provide useful information for future studies of the rDNA of flatfishes as well as the patterns of rDNA evolution in teleostean fishes.
Variations in Parametric Sensitivity for Wind Ramp Events in the Columbia River Basin
Authors: Smith Nicholas H. , Ancell Brian C. 
Published: September 2019

Abstract
This work investigates the sensitivity of wind speed forecasts during wind ramp events to parameters within a numerical weather prediction model boundary layer physics scheme. In a novel way, it explores how these sensitivities vary across 1) ensemble members with different initial conditions, 2) different times during the events, 3) different types of ramp-causing events, and 4) different horizontal grid spacing. Previous research finds that a small number of parameters in the surface layer and boundary layer schemes are responsible for the majority of the forecast uncertainty. In this study, the values of parameters within the Mellor–Yamada–Nakahishi–Niino (MYNN) boundary layer scheme and the MM5 surface layer scheme of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model are perturbed in a systematic way to evaluate parametric sensitivity for two types of specific ramp-causing phenomena: marine pushes and stable mix-out events. This work is part of the Department of Energy’s Second Wind Forecast Improvement Project (WFIP2). A major finding of this study is that there are large differences in parametric sensitivity between members of the same initial condition ensemble for all cases. These variations in sensitivity are the result of differences in the atmospheric state within the initial condition ensemble, and the parametric sensitivity changes over the course of each forecast. Finally, parametric sensitivity changes between event type and with model resolution. These conclusions are particularly relevant for future sensitivity studies and efforts at model tuning.
The Integrity of State Courts under the Australian Constitution
Authors: Emerton Patrick 
Published: September 2019

AbstractThe well-known Kable decision, and the line of authorities to which it has given rise, derives a doctrine of the integrity of state courts from Ch III of the Australian Constitution. The basis for this doctrine, however, as well as its meaning and extent, remains contentious. This article articulates a coherent basis for the Kable doctrine, which both reveals it to rest on a genuine implication arising from the text of Ch III and contributes to an understanding of the content of the doctrine. The method that the article adopts to achieve a rigorous grounding of the Kable doctrine is predominantly theoretical, combining three philosophical approaches: a speech-act analysis of the relevant constitutional provisions, the semantic externalist theory of reference developed by Putnam and Kripke and a sociological understanding of institutions (including legal institutions) along the lines developed by Selznick. As the Kable doctrine is one of the fundamental components of contemporary Australian public law, showing that it is not merely a product of judicial invention in pursuit of desirable policy, but rather is genuinely grounded in the text of the Constitution, is important for establishing not only the legitimacy of the doctrine itself but the legitimacy of that larger body of law.
A single-institution experience of neurogenic tumors of the mediastinum
Authors: Mlika Mouna , Marghli Adel , Souilem Ines , Houcine Yoldez , Abdennadher Mehdi , Braham Emna , Ayadi Aida , Mezni Faouzi 
Published: September 2019

Background Neurogenic tumors of the mediastinum are rare tumors located mainly in the posterior mediastinum. The aim of this study was to report a single-institution experience of these tumors. Methods This study was conducted between 2005 and 2017. Bivariate analysis was performed to assess correlations between the cellularity, mitotic index, presence of a capsule, and potential for malignancy of peripheral nerve sheath tumors. Results There were 86 patients enrolled in the study. The mean age was 42.51 years. Nineteen patients were asymptomatic and their tumors were discovered incidentally. Microscopic diagnosis confirmed a schwannoma in 45 cases, neurofibroma in 12, malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in 9, ganglioneuroma in 14, ganglioneuroblastoma in 4, and neuroblastoma in 2. Bivariate analysis showed a significant correlation between the absence of a capsule, the degree of atypia, a high mitotic index, and high cellularity with the potential for malignancy ( p < 0.05). Surgical resection was the main treatment modality in 84 cases. The mean survival was estimated to be 51.309 months. The log-rank test showed a significant difference in survival according to histologic subtype and between benign and malignant tumors ( p < 0.0001). Conclusion Even if radiologic means are helpful in suggesting the diagnosis, a positive diagnosis of neurogenic tumors is based on microscopic features. High mitotic activity and cellularity, and severe cytonuclear atypia are the features most suggestive of malignancy.
Open Broström-Gould Repair vs Arthroscopic Anatomical Repair of the Anterior Talofibular Ligament for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability
Authors: Zeng Gang , Hu Xumin , Liu Wenzhou , Qiu Xuemei , Yang Tao , Li Chunhai , Song Weidong 
Published: September 2019

Background: The comparative studies on open vs arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) repair are limited. This study aimed to compare the early therapeutic efficacy and cost between the traditional open Broström-Gould repair and all-arthroscopic anatomical repair of the ATFL for chronic lateral ankle instability. Methods: A total of 27 of patients with chronic lateral ankle instability undergoing repair of the ATFL between January 2013 and June 2015 were retrospectively included with a traditional open surgery (n = 10) group and arthroscopy (n = 17) group. The surgery duration, surgical cost, postoperative complications, and the preoperative/postoperative American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society Score (AOFAS) and Karlsson-Peterson score were compared between groups. Results: Compared to the arthroscopy group, the open surgery group had significantly shorter surgery duration and lower surgical cost. However, there was no significant difference in hospitalization duration between groups. At 3 years after operation, the AOFAS and Karlsson scores were significantly improved in both groups. Nevertheless, there was no significant difference in the AOFAS and Karlsson scores between groups at both preoperative and postoperative assessment. No significant difference was found in the incidence of postoperative complications between the 2 groups. Conclusion: These results suggest that open Broström-Gould repair and all-arthroscopic anatomical repair of the ATFL have comparable therapeutic efficacy for chronic lateral ankle instability. The arthroscopic surgery had a smaller incision, while the open Broström-Gould had a shorter surgery duration and lower cost. Level of Evidence: Level III, comparative study.
The Potential Role of Undercarboxylated Osteocalcin Upregulation in Microvascular Insufficiency in a Rat Model of Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sadek Nermeen B. , Gamal Sarah M. , Aboulhoda Basma E. , Rashed Laila A. , Shawky Heba M. , Gamal El-Din Maha M. 
Published: September 2019

Background: Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is accompanied by microvascular complications that lead to myocardial dysfunction and heart failure. Most conventional therapies cannot ameliorate the microvascular insufficiency in DCM. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that undercarboxylated osteocalcin (ucOC) may be a new adjuvant therapy against the progression of DCM and its underlying microvascular pathology. Materials and Methods: Diabetes was induced in Wistar rats with a high-fat diet combined with streptozotocin injections, and ucOC was upregulated after warfarin administration in the treated group. After 8 weeks, cardiac functions were assessed using a Langendorff apparatus. Cardiac tissue samples were also extracted to assess the ucOC receptor and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) for histopathological studies. Results: Both the systolic and the diastolic dysfunction observed in the DCM group were significantly improved after the increase in ucOC blood levels. Significant improvement in VEGF and CD31 expression after warfarin injection was associated with increased capillary density, neovascularization, and decreased myocardial fibrosis together with the reestablishment of myocardial structural and ultrastructural patterns. Conclusion: Undercarboxylated osteocalcin may have a promising effect in improving microvascular insufficiency and myocardial dysfunction in DCM.
What is the relationship between mortality alerts and other indicators of quality of care? A national cross-sectional study
Authors: Cecil Elizabeth , Bottle Alex , Esmail Aneez , Vincent Charles , Aylin Paul 
Published: September 2019

Objectives To assess whether mortality alerts, triggered by sustained higher than expected hospital mortality, are associated with other potential indicators of hospital quality relating to factors of hospital structure, clinical process and patient outcomes. Methods Cross-sectional study of National Health Service hospital trusts in England (2011–2013) using publicly available hospital measures reflecting organizational structure (mean acute bed occupancy, nurse/bed ratio, training satisfaction and proportion of trusts with low National Health Service Litigation Authority risk assessment or in financial deficit); process (mean proportion of eligible patients who receive percutaneous coronary intervention within 90 minutes) and outcomes (mean patient satisfaction scores, summary measures of hospital mortality and proportion of patients harmed). Mortality alerts were based on hospital administrative data. Results Mortality alerts were associated with structural indicators and outcome indicators of quality. There was insufficient data to detect an association between mortality alerts and the process indicator. Conclusions Mortality alerts appear to reflect aspects of quality within an English hospital setting, suggesting that there may be value in a mortality alerting system in highlighting poor hospital quality.
Readmissions After Lobectomy in an Era of Increasing Minimally Invasive Surgery: A Statewide Analysis
Authors: Hendriksen Brandon S. , Reed Michael F. , Taylor Matthew D. , Hollenbeak Christopher S. 
Published: September 2019

Objective Utilization of minimally invasive surgical modalities for lobectomy is increasing. Lobectomy can be associated with notable rates of readmission. As use of these modalities increases, evaluation of the impact on readmission is warranted. Methods Data from the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council were used to identify lobectomy operations performed in Pennsylvania from 2011 through 2014. Operations were stratified by approach: open, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or robotic. Differences in patient characteristics were assessed with analysis of variance and chi-squared tests. Logistic regression modeled risk of 30-day readmission and linear regression modeled length of stay (LOS) after controlling for confounders. Results We evaluated 4,939 lobectomy operations (2,501 open, 1,944 VATS, 494 robotic) with 583 readmissions (11.8%). Robotic cases increased 333% over 4 years. VATS and open cases increased 38% and 22%, respectively. Surgical approach was not associated with hospital readmission (VATS odds ratio (OR) = 0.95; P = 0.632; and robotic OR = 1.02; P = 0.916). Longer LOS was associated with a greater likelihood of readmission (OR = 1.58; P = 0.002). LOS was 1 day less for VATS ( P < 0.001) and 1.5 days less for robotic lobectomy ( P < 0.001) when compared to an open approach. The most common reasons for readmission were respiratory complications and nonrespiratory infection. Conclusions Surgical approach does not directly affect readmission. However, minimally invasive lobectomy appears to be associated with shorter LOS and results in more patients discharged home. Decreased LOS and discharge home are associated with fewer readmissions.
Current pharmacologic treatments for smoking cessation and new agents undergoing clinical trials
Authors: Nagano Tatsuya , Katsurada Masahiro , Yasuda Yuichiro , Kobayashi Kazuyuki , Nishimura Yoshihiro 
Published: September 2019

Smoking causes various diseases and is a major public health threat worldwide. Therefore, promoting smoking cessation is the most important intervention contributing to maintaining the health of smokers and nonsmokers and saving enormous financial expense. We reviewed existing and emerging smoking-cessation pharmacotherapies from the Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews, PubMed, Ovid, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases. A literature review revealed that bupropion may be appropriate for patients interested in reducing smoking who dislike, or who have failed, nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT). Additionally, varenicline and NRT are efficacious first-line smoking cessation treatments and should be given to all individuals unless contraindicated. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplementary material section.
Functional ageing in fibrotic interstitial lung disease: the impact of frailty on adverse health outcomes
Authors: Guler Sabina A. , Kwan Joanne M. , Leung Janice M. , Khalil Nasreen , Wilcox Pearce G. , Ryerson Christopher J. 
Published: September 2019

BackgroundAccelerated biological and functional ageing is common in fibrotic interstitial lung disease (ILD); however, their impact on adverse health outcomes has not been evaluated in this population.MethodsPatients were prospectively recruited from a specialised ILD clinic. Functional ageing was determined by frailty index and biological age by measurement of absolute telomere length (aTL) from patients' peripheral blood leukocytes. Adverse health outcomes included health-related quality of life (St George's Respiratory Questionnaire), number and length of respiratory and non-respiratory hospitalisations, medication tolerability and time to death or lung transplantation. Multivariable models were used to determine the risks and rates of adverse health outcomes associated with the frailty index and aTL.Results540 patients with fibrotic ILD, including 100 with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), provided 749 frailty index assessments, with 189 patients providing blood samples. The frailty index was strongly associated with quality of life, rate of hospitalisation, time to hospital discharge and mortality, including adjustment for age, sex, disease severity and IPF diagnosis. Mortality prognostication was improved by the addition of the frailty index to commonly used clinical parameters and previously validated composite indices. Conversely, aTL was not associated with most adverse health outcomes. The effect of chronological age on outcomes was mediated primarily by the frailty index, and to a lesser extent by aTL.ConclusionsFunctional ageing is associated with adverse health outcomes in patients with fibrotic ILD, indicating the need for consideration of the individual functional age into clinical decision-making.