bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Supervised learning and graph signal processing strategies for beam tracking in highly directional mobile communications
Authors: Ortega Yosbel R. , Guerreiro Igor M. , Hui Dennis , Cavalcante Charles C. , Cavalcanti F. Rodrigo P. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThe use of efficient beam tracking mechanisms becomes necessary in highly directional communication of the fifth‐generation systems. In this context, this paper analyzes the tracking problem and proposes a framework that exploits the samples in the user equipment (UE) dataset (historical UE dataset) to efficiently estimate and predict the channel state at the base station. The framework is composed of two steps. First, a supervised learning algorithm, namely, K‐nearest neighbors (K‐NN), is evaluated as a mean of (i) finding the most similar historical samples to some beam measurements reported by the UE and (ii) predicting the corresponding channel state. As a second step, a sampling and reconstruction strategy based on graph signal processing (GSP) called K‐nearest neighbors with reconstruction (K‐NN‐R) is introduced in order to reduce the beam search space during the beam measurement stage, which allows a more efficient usage of the feedback channel. Simulation results illustrate the performance of the proposal in terms of normalized mean square error in comparison with three traditional/baseline prediction techniques. The K‐NN technique provides a better performance than the baseline approaches for any length of the observed temporal window and with full beam sweep. Meanwhile, the K‐NN‐R framework outperforms the baseline approaches with only half of the beam pairs and throughout a significantly low length of observed temporal window.
Effects of three products from Antarctic krill on the nitrogen balance, growth, and antioxidation status of rats
Authors: Ma Xiaoming , Liu Chuyi , Wang Changwei , Ma Xiaoying , Che Shuai , Feng Xiaomei , Li Bafang , Dai Yuankun 
Published: July 2019

AbstractA few studies conducted over the past few decades have demonstrated the health benefits of a diet rich in marine products, but limited studies have investigated the effects of different krill products on the nitrogen balance and their potential health benefits. In our study, after a 14‐day acclimation period, 50 female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly assigned to five groups, each of which was fed a different diet, for 28 days. We then evaluated the effect of krill protein complex (KPC), krill powder, and defatted krill powder on the nitrogen balance, growth, and antioxidant activity through analyses of MDA, CAT, GSH‐Px, and T‐SOD. An in vivo analysis suggested that the nitrogen retention rate, protein digestibility, and bioutilization of krill products were equal to those of casein. Moreover, the KPC diet resulted in the highest nitrogen intake and retention among the groups, and the biological value and net protein utilization obtained with KPC were higher than those obtained with defatted krill powder, which was consistent with the weight gains observed for these two groups. The hematological test also showed that KPC contributed to the production of functional proteins in the body. The antioxidant activity analysis indicated that higher GSH‐Px and T‐SOD activities were obtained with krill products and KPC, respectively, compared with casein. The results from this study suggested that krill proteins could promote growth and improve the antioxidant status of an organism. Although further studies on the safety of krill products for human consumption are needed, this work provides insights into the use of krill proteins as a potential substitute for other proteins and restructured foods.
Mechanism of steam‐declined sulfation and steam‐enhanced carbonation by DFT calculations
Authors: Yang Peng , Sun Zhao , Duan Lunbo , Tang Hongjian 
Published: July 2019

AbstractSulfur dioxide (SO2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) removals are of great significance for fossil fuel combustion, where they can be simultaneously captured by calcium‐based absorbents. Nevertheless, the CO2 uptake capacity declines with SO2 partial pressures. This paper aims at explaining the mechanisms of steam‐declined sulfation and steam‐enhanced carbonation by density functional theory calculations. CaO(001) surface is chosen as the absorbent, and the transition state is calculated to obtain the desorption barrier energy of the adsorbates. By analyzing the desorption of the adsorbate on pristine CaO(001) surface and the CaO(001) surface that has adsorbed other adsorbate, it can be concluded that SO2 adsorption inhibits CO2 adsorption since the barrier energy of CO2 desorption on SO2‐CaO(001) surface (24.15 kJ mol–1) is less than CO2 desorption on CaO(001) surface (129.52 kJ mol–1). By comparing the coadsorption energy of the two adsorbates with the sum of the adsorption energy of each adsorbate, it is practical that the H2O adsorption inhibits SO2 adsorption because the calculated coadsorption energy (−221.27 kJ mol–1) is larger than the sum of H2O adsorption energy (–100.00 kJ mol–1) and SO2 adsorption energy (−194.37 kJ mol–1). However, the calculated coadsorption energy of H2O and CO2 adsorption (−254.89 kJ mol–1) is less than the sum of CO2 adsorption energy (−144.23 kJ mol–1) and H2O adsorption energy (−100.00 kJ mol–1), indicating the promotion of CO2 adsorption. Steam in the adsorption process plays the roles of sulfation suppression and carbonation enhancement. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis Is Associated With Liver‐Related Outcomes and All‐Cause Mortality in Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Choi Hannah S.J. , Brouwer Willem P. , Zanjir Wayel M.R. , de Man Robert A. , Feld Jordan J. , Hansen Bettina E. , Janssen Harry L.A. , Patel Keyur 
Published: July 2019

Background and Aims
Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease are increasingly observed together in clinical practice, and development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) represents another leading cause of liver‐related morbidity and mortality. Our aims were to determine whether biopsy‐proven NASH impacts clinical outcomes in CHB patients and assess prognostic risk factors.

Approach and Results
CHB patients attending two tertiary centers in North America and Europe over 13 years with available clinical and biopsy data were included. Patients were categorized as no‐NASH or probable/definite NASH based on standardized histological assessment. Clinical events (death, decompensation, transplant, and hepatoma) were evaluated, and Kaplan‐Meier survival estimates and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to analyze the incidence of events. There were 1,089 CHB patients, classified as no‐NASH (n = 904, 83%) or NASH (n = 185, 17%), with 52 (6%) versus 27 (15%) experiencing outcome events during follow‐up, respectively. In the multivariable analysis adjusting for age, sex, hepatitis B e antigen serostatus, and diabetes, the presence of NASH and concomitant advanced fibrosis (AF) was significantly associated with clinical outcomes (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 4.8 [2.6‐9.0], P < 0.01) when compared to absence of NASH and AF (reference). NASH and AF were associated with a greater risk of outcomes compared to AF (P = 0.01) or NASH alone (P < 0.01). Of the three histological determinants of NASH, ballooning and inflammation, but not steatosis, were independently associated with clinical outcomes (P < 0.05) in place of NASH. NASH was significantly associated with increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and death (P < 0.01) but not decompensation (P = 0.33).

Conclusions
In our large combined tertiary center cohort, patients with concomitant NASH and CHB had more AF and shorter time to development of liver‐related outcomes or death compared to patients with CHB alone. Among patients with AF, superimposed NASH predicted poorer clinical outcomes.
Leadership in limbo: Characteristics of successful incident commanders in health sector of a disaster‐prone country
Authors: Nasiri Ali , Aryankhesal Aidin , Khankeh Hamidreza 
Published: July 2019

SummaryObjectiveIran, as one of the most disaster‐prone countries in the world, is exposed to a wide range of hazards. Hence, the health sector should be prepared to deal with the consequences of emergencies. This study aimed to explore Iranian disaster management status and to identify the necessary characteristics of successful incident commanders in this field.MethodsA qualitative content analysis was designed using in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with 30 commanders and experts, selected by purposeful sampling, who had first‐hand experiences in managing health disasters. Field notes, formal institutional reports, and photos were employed as well. Verbatim transcribed interviews and other data sources were analyzed using constant comparison method. Ethical issues were considered carefully throughout the study process.ResultsTwo main themes were developed: The first theme, "limbo situation," as expression of the problem describes inadequacies and complexities of disaster management in Iranian health sector, including seven categories. The second theme was "effective disaster leadership" consisting of "commanders' traits" and "commanders' competencies" as subthemes.ConclusionsThe study demonstrated the chaotic feature of disaster management in Iran and probably some other developing countries, with crucial and unclear role of field commanders. Working under stress, time pressure, uncertainty, and management of paradoxes needs timely and on‐field decision making. This study revealed that Iranian health sector incident commanders should be transformational leaders with the ability of influencing subordinate staff and have Janusian thinking skills for overcoming the existing limbo situation.
Likelihood evaluation of models with occasionally binding constraints
Authors: Cuba‐Borda Pablo , Guerrieri Luca , Iacoviello Matteo , Zhong Molin 
Published: July 2019

SummaryApplied researchers interested in estimating key parameters of dynamic stochastic general equilibrium models face an array of choices regarding numerical solution and estimation methods. We focus on the likelihood evaluation of models with occasionally binding constraints. We document how solution approximation errors and likelihood misspecification, related to the treatment of measurement errors, can interact and compound each other.
Impact of length of replication competent genome of hepatitis B virus over the differential antigenic secretion
Authors: Amir Fatima , Siddiqui Zaheenul Islam , Farooqui Sabihur Rahman , Anwer Ayesha , Khan Saniya , Azmi Md Iqbal , Mehmankhah Mahboubeh , Dohare Ravins , Khan Luqman Ahmad , Kazim Syed Naqui 
Published: July 2019

AbstractHepatitis B virus (HBV) genome consists of circular partially double stranded DNA of 3.2 kb size which gets converted into covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) during its life cycle. It then acts as a template for formation of pregenomicRNA (pgRNA) of 3.5 kb. Absence of appropriate animal models prompted a need to establish a better in vitro culture system to uncover the propagation and survival mechanisms of the virus. There is scarcity of data to represent the significance of varying length of replication competent viral genome on the secretion of viral secretory proteins/antigens and in turn on the overall effects on the accomplishment of the viral life cycle. The present study was undertaken to ascertain a suitable replication competent construct in which the viral life cycle of HBV with varying clinical relevance can be studied efficiently. Two constructs (pHBV 1.3 and pHBV 1X) of different sizes were used to transfect hepatoma cells and consequently the secretory antigens were monitored. In vector free approach (pHBV 1X), 3.2 kb viral DNA is directly transfected in the culture system whereas in vector mediated approach more than full length of viral genome is cloned in a vector (pHBV 1.3X) and transfected to obtain a 3.5 kb pgRNA intermediate. HBV secretes two important antigens; HBsAg and HBeAg. HBsAg is a hallmark of infection and is the first to be secreted in the blood stream whereas HBeAg is a secretory protein and remains associated with the viral replication. The construct pHBV 1.3X referring to as more than full length, by virtue of being capable of undergoing transcription without the synthesis of cccDNA intermediate (unlike the clinical situation where an intermediate step of cccDNA synthesis is an essential component to initiate the viral life cycle) appears to be better system for studying viral life cycle in in vitro culture system. The reasons could be assigned to the fact that as low as 100 ng of viral DNA was shown to quantify the replicative phenotypes with this construct. The better efficiency of this construct at prima facie, appears to be mediated through the significantly higher levels of pgRNA transcript during the viral life cycle.
Key modules and hub genes identified by coexpression network analysis for revealing novel biomarkers for larynx squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hang , Zhao Xudong , Wang Mengmeng , Ji Wenyue 
Published: July 2019

AbstractLarynx squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is the second most aggressive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Numerous genes have been identified to be aberrantly expressed during the development of LSCC. However, currently, researchers focus more on the individual molecule and downstream genes, leaving the coexpression among genes and key upstream disease driver genes unexploited. In this study, we applied weighted gene coexpression analysis (WGCNA) to decipher potential hub genes driving the development of LSCC. After downloading of LSCC microarray profile from gene expression omnibus, different expression analysis was performed, which was used to conduct functional enrichment analysis. Then, we applied WGCNA to highlight the hub genes which were relevant to the carcinogenesis and progression. A total of 2858 differentially expressed genes were identified in LSCC samples compared with adjacent non‐neoplastic tissues. WGCNA revealed three LSCC set‐specific modules having significant Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment effect, including pink, cyan, and black module. Nine hub genes were identified to be crucial in LSCC onset and progression, which may assist clinical decisions and serve as potential targets for LSCC treatment.
Characterization of Severe Adverse Drug Reactions at a Free‐Standing Children's Hospital
Authors: Yu Diana , Sheets Justin , Suppes Sarah , Goldman Jennifer 
Published: July 2019

AbstractWe performed a retrospective chart review on severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs) detected by a pharmacovigilance program at a free‐standing pediatric hospital from January 2011 through September 2014. The pharmacist‐led program identifies ADRs using electronic medical record triggers. A systematic approach was used to classify ADR type and severity and assure accurate documentation. Data collection included demographics, implicated medication, type of ADR, Naranjo probability scale, ADR‐associated International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision E codes, 30‐day mortality, and health care visit cost. One hundred sixty‐six severe pediatric ADRs were included, occurring in 163 unique patients. Severe ADRs were commonly associated with antimicrobials (48%), antineoplastics (10%), and antiepileptics (10%). The majority of ADRs were classified by the Naranjo probability scale as probable (59%). One hundred fifty‐four patients were admitted to the hospital, with a median length of stay of 3 days; 22 of these patients required admission to the pediatric intensive care unit for a median of 3 days. The median estimated health care cost associated with severe ADRs was $4055.52. No deaths occurred. Nearly 40% of severe ADRs would have gone unidentified using ADR‐associated International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision E codes alone. The impact of pediatric ADRs on the health care system is underestimated. Strategies such as active pharmacovigilance programs enhance the identification, characterization, and documentation of these otherwise unrecognized ADRs.
Bezel free design of organic light emitting diode display via a‐InGaZnO gate driver circuit integration within active array
Authors: Kim Kyung Min , Han Inhyo , Noh Seok , Jang Young In , Oh Kilhwan , Kim Bumsik , Kang In‐Byeong 
Published: July 2019

AbstractIn this article, we described an innovative design technology of active matrix organic light emitting diode (AMOLED) display, to provide a bezel free design. We designed gate driver circuit of amorphous indium‐gallium‐zinc oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs) not on the bezel area but within the active array. Although we applied challengeable design, no degradation of electrical/optical properties of panel was observed. Because we effectively prevented capacitive coupling and interference between the emission circuit and integrated gate driver circuit in active array, finally, we successfully demonstrated a bezel free designed AMOLED display of 18.3″ HD (1366 × 768) driven by a‐InGaZnO TFTs.
Surface modified solution‐derived nickel oxide film via ion‐beam irradiation as a liquid crystal alignment layer
Authors: Lee Ju Hwan , Won Jonghoon , Jeong Hae‐Chang , Kim Dong Hyun , Lee Dong Wook , Song In Ho , Oh Byeong‐Yun , Han Jeong‐Min , Kim Dai‐Hyun , Seo Dae‐Shik 
Published: July 2019

AbstractIn this article, we demonstrate the liquid crystal (LC) alignment characteristics of solution‐derived nickel oxide (NiO) film modified with ion‐beam (IB) irradiation. Cross‐polarized optical microscopy and pretilt angle measurements verified that uniform LC alignment was achieved using the NiO film as an alignment layer regardless of IB incidence angle. Contact angle measurements revealed that all of the NiO films had a deionized water contact angle below 90°, which indicates that they had hydrophilic surfaces that had an effect on the homogeneous LC alignment. Atomic force microscopy was conducted to determine the physical surface modification due to the IB irradiation, which showed that it reduced the size of the surface grains with agglomerations depending on the surface tilt from the IB incidence angle. Furthermore, microgroove structures strongly related to uniform LC alignment were observed after IB irradiation. Chemical surface modification was investigated via an X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis which revealed that IB irradiation modified the chemical bonds in the NiO film, and this affected the LC alignment state. Thus, these results indicate that using NiO film exposed to IB irradiation as an alignment layer is a suitable method for LC applications.
The contrasting roles of aquatic fungi and oomycetes in the degradation and transformation of polymeric organic matter
Authors: Masigol Hossein , Khodaparast Seyed Akbar , Woodhouse Jason Nicholas , Rojas‐Jimenez Keilor , Fonvielle Jeremy , Rezakhani Forough , Mostowfizadeh‐Ghalamfarsa Reza , Neubauer Darshan , Goldhammer Tobias , Grossart Hans‐Peter 
Published: July 2019

AbstractStudies on the ecological role of fungi and, to a lesser extent, oomycetes, are receiving increasing attention, mainly due to their participation in the cycling of organic matter in aquatic ecosystems. To unravel their importance in humification processes, we isolated several strains of fungi and oomycetes from Anzali lagoon, Iran. We then performed taxonomic characterization by morphological and molecular methods, analyzed the ability to degrade several polymeric substrates, performed metabolic fingerprinting with Ecoplates, and determined the degradation of humic substances (HS) using liquid chromatography‐organic carbon detection. Our analyses highlighted the capacity of aquatic fungi to better degrade a plethora of organic molecules, including complex polymers. Specifically, we were able to demonstrate not only the utilization of these complex polymers, but also the role of fungi in the production of HS. In contrast, oomycetes, despite some morphological and physiological similarities with aquatic fungi, exhibited a propensity toward opportunism, quickly benefitting from the availability of small organic molecules, while exhibiting sensitivity toward more complex polymers. Despite their contrasting roles, our study highlights the importance of both oomycetes and fungi in aquatic organic matter transformation and cycling with potential implications for the global carbon cycle.
Preventive Effects of Thermosensitive Biopolymer‐Conjugated C‐Peptide against High Glucose‐Induced Endothelial Cell Dysfunction
Authors: Jung Se‐Hui , Lee Jee‐Yeon , Lee Seong‐Hyeon , Kwon Mi‐Hye , Han Eun‐Taek , Park Won Sun , Hong Seok‐Ho , Kim Young‐Myeong , Ha Kwon‐Soo 
Published: July 2019

AbstractC‐peptide has emerged as a potential drug for treating diabetic complications. However, clinical application of C‐peptide is limited by its short half‐life during circulation and costly synthesis methods. To overcome these limitations, a biocompatible and thermosensitive biopolymer‐C‐peptide conjugate composed of human C‐peptide genetically conjugated at the C‐terminus of nine repeats of lysine‐containing elastin‐like polypeptide (K9‐C‐peptide) is generated. K9‐C‐peptide exhibits reversible thermal phase behavior with a transition temperature dependent on polypeptide concentration. Degradation of K9‐C‐peptide hydrogel depends on the concentration of four cleavage enzymes as well as the reaction time and frequency of treatments with elastase‐2. The preventive effect of K9‐C‐peptide against high glucose‐induced human aortic endothelial cell dysfunction is further investigated. K9‐C‐peptide inhibits high glucose‐induced intracellular reactive oxygen species generation, transglutaminase 2 activation, and apoptosis, similar to the inhibitory effects of human C‐peptide. Thus, K9‐C‐peptide is a potential drug depot for the sustained delivery of C‐peptide to treat diabetic complications.
Technical Note: Characterization of the new microSilicon diode detector
Authors: Schönfeld Ann‐Britt , Poppinga Daniela , Kranzer Rafael , De Wilde Rudy Leon , Willborn Kay , Poppe Björn , Looe Hui Khee 
Published: July 2019

PurposeDosimetric properties of the new microSilicon diode detector (60023) have been studied with focus on application in small‐field dosimetry. The influences of the dimensions of the sensitive volume and the density of the epoxy layer surrounding the silicon chip of microSilicon have been quantified and compared to its predecessor (Diode E 60017) and the microDiamond (60019, all PTW‐Freiburg, Germany).MethodsDose linearity has been studied in the range from 0.01 to 8.55 Gy and dose‐per‐pulse dependence from 0.13 to 0.86 mGy/pulse. The effective point of measurement (EPOM) was determined by comparing measured percentage depth dose curves with a reference curve (Roos chamber). Output ratios were measured for nominal field sizes from 0.5 × 0.5 cm2 to 4 × 4 cm2. The corresponding small‐field output correction factors, k, were derived with a plastic scintillation detector as reference. The lateral dose–response function, K(x), was determined using a slit beam geometry.ResultsMicroSilicon shows linear dose response (R2 = 1.000) in both low and high dose range up to 8.55 Gy with deviations of only up to 1% within the dose‐per‐pulse values investigated. The EPOM was found to lie (0.7 ± 0.2) mm below the front detector’s surface. The derived k for microSilicon (0.960 at seff = 0.55 cm) is similar to that of microDiamond (0.956), while Diode E requires larger corrections (0.929). This improved behavior of microSilicon in small‐fields is reflected in the slightly wider K(x) compared to Diode E. Furthermore, the amplitude of the negative values in K(x) at the borders of the sensitive volume has been reduced.ConclusionsCompared to its predecessor, microSilicon shows improved dosimetric behavior with higher sensitivity and smaller dose‐per‐pulse dependence. Profile measurements demonstrated that microSilicon causes less perturbation in off‐axis measurements. It is especially suitable for the applications in small‐field output factors and profile measurements.