bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Defective regression models for cure rate modeling with interval‐censored data
Authors: Calsavara Vinicius F. , Rodrigues Agatha S. , Rocha Ricardo , Tomazella Vera , Louzada Francisco 
Published: March 2019

AbstractRegression models in survival analysis are most commonly applied for right‐censored survival data. In some situations, the time to the event is not exactly observed, although it is known that the event occurred between two observed times. In practice, the moment of observation is frequently taken as the event occurrence time, and the interval‐censored mechanism is ignored. We present a cure rate defective model for interval‐censored event‐time data. The defective distribution is characterized by a density function whose integration assumes a value less than one when the parameter domain differs from the usual domain. We use the Gompertz and inverse Gaussian defective distributions to model data containing cured elements and estimate parameters using the maximum likelihood estimation procedure. We evaluate the performance of the proposed models using Monte Carlo simulation studies. Practical relevance of the models is illustrated by applying datasets on ovarian cancer recurrence and oral lesions in children after liver transplantation, both of which were derived from studies performed at A.C. Camargo Cancer Center in São Paulo, Brazil.
Material and space saving carbon concrete elements
Authors: Müller Egbert , Scheerer Silke , Curbach Manfred 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThe goal of the common research project autartec, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), is the development of a modular system for largely self‐sufficient buildings. Specifically, known technologies, for example, for solar power and heat generation or decentralized storage should be developed so that they can be integrated space saving into the building envelope or the building structure of energetically and climatically functional buildings. Within the frame of Joint project I “Functionally integrated components made of textile concrete,” lightweight elements for stairs and walls were developed. For these applications, carbon reinforced concrete provides new possibilities in the design of high performance space saving construction components. The innovative wall elements will be introduced in this article.
Composition‐Controlled Synthesis of Hybrid Perovskite Nanoparticles by Ionic Metathesis: Bandgap Engineering Studies from Experiments and Theoretical Calculations
Authors: Roy Mrinmoy , Vikram  , Banerjee Sucheta , Mitra Arijit , Alam Aftab , Aslam M. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractHerein a newly discovered non‐polar solvent based synthesis of MAPbX3 hybrid perovskite nanoparticles (NPs) is presented, where MA=Methylammonium and X=I, Br and Cl, as well as their mixed halide counterparts. The methodology proposed is simple and uses low‐cost commercial precursors. The conventional method of hybrid perovskite preparation requires methylammonium halide precursors and highly polar solvents. Mandatory use of polar solvents and a particular perovskite precursor makes an intermediate compound which then requires a non‐polar solvent to recover the NPs. In contrast here, a whole range of mixed halide perovskite NPs is fabricated without using a methylammonium halide precursor and a polar solvent. In this method, a non‐polar solvent is used, which provides a better platform for the particle recovery. Organic cations on the nanoparticle surface prevent degradation from water, due to their hydrophobic nature, and hence offer a stable colloidal suspension in toluene for more than three months. Ab‐initio calculations within density functional theory (DFT) predict lower formation energies compared to previously reported values, confirming better chemical stability for this synthesis pathway. Through the halide compositional tuning, these NPs exhibit a variety of emission and absorption starting from ultraviolet to near infrared (IR). The absorption spectra of various halide perovskite show a sharp band edge over the visible wavelength with high absorption coefficient. High oscillator strengths due to high excitonic binding energies combined with the simulated finite dipole transition probabilities point towards the observed high absorption. The emission spectra of mixed halide perovskites vary from 400 to 750 nm, which covers the whole range of visible spectra with sharp full‐width at half maxima. Different halide perovskite exhibit average recombination lifetime from 5 to 227 ns. Ambient synthesis, chemical robustness and tunability of emission with varying halide compositions make MAPbX3 (X=I, Br and Cl) NPs appealing for the optoelectronic applications.
Bone fracture healing under Ilizarov fixator: Influence of fixator configuration, fracture geometry, and loading
Authors: Ganadhiepan Ganesharajah , Miramini Saeed , Patel Minoo , Mendis Priyan , Zhang Lihai 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThis study aims to enhance the understanding of the relationship between Ilizarov fixator configuration and its effects on bone fracture healing. Using Taylor spatial frame (TSF) as an example, the roles of critical parameters (ie, TSF ring diameter, wire pre‐tension, fracture gap size, and axial load) that govern fracture healing during the early stages were investigated by using computational modelling in conjunction with mechanical testing involving an advanced 3D optical measurement system. The computational model was first validated using the mechanical test results and then used to simulate mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) differentiations within different regions of the fracture site under various combinations of TSF ring diameter, wire pre‐tension, fracture gap size, and axial load values. Predicted spatially dependent MSC differentiation patterns and the influence of each parameter on differentiations were compared with in vivo results, and good agreement was seen between the two. Gap size was identified as the most influential parameter in MSC differentiation, and the influence of axial loading and TSF configuration (ie, ring diameter and wire pre‐tension) on cell differentiation was seen to be gap size dependent. Most changes in cell differentiation were predicted in the external callus (periosteal), which is the crucial region of the callus in the early stages. However, for small gap sizes (eg, 1 mm), significant changes were predicted in the endosteal callus as well. The study exhibits the potential of computational models in assessing the performance of Ilizarov fixators as well as assisting surgeons in patient‐specific clinical treatment planning.
The determination of pH of peri‐implant crevicular fluid around one‐piece and two‐piece dental implants: A pilot study
Authors: Karpavicius Dainius , Stasikelyte Morta , Baseviciene Nomeda , Sakalauskaite Urte , Ratkute Saule , Razukevicius Dainius 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThere are two main groups of screw‐type dental implant designs: one‐piece and two‐piece implants. Although success rates of both of these types of implants are high, none of them avoid complications, of which the most common are peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis. Current clinical diagnostic parameters are relatively noninvasive and cost‐efficient; however, they are often not sensitive enough and fail to determine the activity of inflammation. The purpose of this study is to determine pH of peri‐implant crevicular fluid (PICF) around one‐piece and two‐piece implants and pH of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) around healthy teeth and to find out if our suggested method could function accurately for determination of pH of PICF and GCF. Thermo Fisher Scientific™ Orion™ 9863BN glass microelectrode was used to determine pH of PICF around 29 one‐piece (ROOTT, TRATE AG) and 29 two‐piece implants (multiple manufacturers) and pH of GCF around 29 healthy teeth. pH of PICF around two‐piece implants was more acidic (P < 0.001). Average pH around one‐piece implants was 6.46 and around two‐piece implants was 6.15. Mean pH of GCF was 6.64. pH of PICF in women around two‐piece implants was more alkaline (P < 0.05); no difference was found in control and one‐piece implant groups. There was no statistically significant correlation found between age and pH of PICF and GFC. Design of dental implants has an impact on pH of PICF. Glass microelectrode is an appropriate tool for accurate determination of pH in PICF.
Wavelet variances for heavy‐tailed time series
Authors: Fonseca R. V. , Mondal D. , Zhang L. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThis paper focuses on wavelet analysis of variability for heavy‐tailed time series. Under the assumption that time‐series values have finite second but infinite fourth moments, stable asymptotics are derived for wavelet variances across different time scales. These stable asymptotics have a slower rate of convergence than the square root of the sample size and are markedly different from conventional normal asymptotics. Furthermore, the asymptotic results apply even when the time series exhibits long‐range dependence. Wavelet variances and stable asymptotics are then used to analyze three streamflows: one in Arizona, one in Connecticut, and one in Illinois. These analyses provide a deeper understanding of streamflow variability at different time scales (e.g., extreme variation at short time scales that are characteristic of heavy rainfall, presence of seasonal variations, and, in one case, some quasi‐biennial fluctuations). Furthermore, this paper includes evaluations of local characteristic time scales, a discussion of tail heaviness, computation of Hurst exponents, and some future directions of research.
Does free schooling affect pathways from adverse childhood experiences via mental health distress to HIV risk among adolescent girls in South Africa: a longitudinal moderated pathway model
Authors: Meinck Franziska , Orkin FM , Cluver Lucie 
Published: March 2019

AbstractIntroductionAdolescent girls are at high risk of HIV infection in sub‐Saharan Africa. Mental health distress, driven by adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) such as abuse, poverty and family HIV, may be an important driver of HIV risk behaviour among adolescent girls, while education may mitigate these risks. This study aimed to develop an empirically based theoretical model between ACEs, mental health distress and HIV risk behaviour among adolescent girls in South Africa and to investigate the potential moderating effects of free schooling provision.MethodsSelf‐report questionnaires using validated scales were completed by adolescent girls aged 12 to 17 at baseline in two provinces in South Africa in 2011, with a 99% one‐year follow‐up in 2012 (n = 1498). Sampling included every household in randomly selected census enumeration areas of four deprived health districts. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to identify measurement models and a structural equation model was developed to test pathways of risk and protection.ResultsInternalizing and externalizing mental health distress fully mediated the positive relationship between ACEs at baseline and HIV risk behaviour at follow‐up among adolescent girls. Internalizing mental health distress was associated with increased sexual risk at follow‐up via higher externalizing problems. Free schooling provision at baseline and follow‐up eliminated the pathway from internalizing to externalizing mental health distress by moderating the pathway between ACEs and internalizing mental health distress. It also weakened the pathway from externalizing mental health distress to HIV risk behaviour at follow‐up through a direct negative effect on externalizing mental health distress.ConclusionsReducing ACEs and adolescent mental health distress is essential for reducing HIV risk behaviour among girls in South Africa. Free schooling provision may be an important tool for reducing these problems and mitigating negative pathways to HIV risk among vulnerable adolescent girls.
Production of interferon‐gamma, interleukin‐6, and interleukin‐1β by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with novel lys‐gingipain synthetic peptides
Authors: Santos‐Lima Ellen Karla N. , Oliveira Yuri A. , Santos Rebeca P. B. , Sampaio Geraldo P. , Pimentel Ana Carla M. , Carvalho‐Filho Paulo C. , Moura‐Costa Lília F. , Olczak Teresa , Gomes‐Filho Isaac S. , Meyer Roberto J. , Xavier Márcia T. , Trindade Soraya C. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractBackgroundPeriodontitis is a progressive inflammatory process, and its pathogenesis is related to the presence of a dysbiotic subgingival biofilm that elicits the immune response. Porphyromonas gingivalis is a keystone pathogen, and its Lys‐gingipain (Kgp) virulence factor is involved in the pathogen‐host interaction through the production of cytokines by host cells, but the specific mechanisms of this interaction have not been elucidated. The present study evaluated the in vitro production of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐6, and IL‐1β cytokines in response to antigenic stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with novel Kgp synthetic peptides.MethodsOur previous in silico study predicted 16 immunogenic peptides from Kgp protein. Nine peptides derived from different regions of the protein were chemically synthesized. The synthetic peptides Kgp12, 17, and 18 were selected based on the immunoglobulin G immunoreactivity in the serum of patients with periodontitis (P) and individuals without periodontitis (WP), and they were used in in vitro stimulation of PBMC derived from groups P and WP. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and microsphere‐based flow cytometric assay were used to verify the levels of the cytokines produced in PBMC cultures after 48 hours.ResultsKgp12, 17, and 18 peptides induced lower production of IFN‐γ. Kgp12 induced higher levels of IFN‐γ in WP than in P individuals. Kgp12 induced higher production of IL‐6 and IL‐1β compared with the other stimuli.ConclusionThe novel Kgp synthetic peptides tested herein are immunogenic peptides (epitopes) since they induced the production of cytokines by PBMC and therefore may be useful tools in evaluating the pathogen‐host interaction.
Exact solution for drained spherical cavity expansion in saturated soils of finite radial extent
Authors: Cheng Yan , Yang Hong‐Wei 
Published: March 2019

SummaryThis study presents an exact solution for drained spherical cavity expansion subjected to constant stress and zero displacement boundary conditions in finite medium. The solution is exact as no simplification is involved in the solution procedure in the plastic region and can be solved as an initial value problem. The effect of finite radial extent on the results of cavity expanding to a certain radius is accounted for through the initial values at the elastic‐plastic boundary. A critical state constitutive model with a nonassociated flow rule is adopted. The model parameters from literature are then used in generating the results for cavity expansion in infinite and finite radial extent to highlight the difference. Also, the results are presented in a way that can be used to account for the boundary effect for the interpretation of cone penetration tests conducted in calibration chambers.
Prediction of current and future potential distributions of theEucalyptuspestLeptocybe invasa(Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) in China using the CLIMEX model
Authors: Huang Mengyi , Ge Xuezhen , Shi Hongliang , Tong Yougui , Shi Juan 
Published: March 2019

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe waspLeptocybe invasaFisher & LaSalle (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), aEucalyptus(Myrtaceae) pest native to Australia, has caused economic and ecologic losses in China. It is a serious pest in southern provinces. Because climate is a limiting factor in insect distribution, we used the model CLIMEX to predict the effect of climate change on potential current and future distributions ofL. invasain China. Data were collected on the current locations of this wasp, along with the damage incurred toEucalyptus. These data were used to create a forecast model to predict potential current and future distribution maps ofL. invasain China.RESULTSThe verification results showed that 99.5% of the distribution samples formulated by the model are highly reliable and accurate. The result predicted that the potential current distribution ofL. invasawill concentrate south of the Yellow River basin. The future distribution maps predicted a small‐scale potential expansion north–northwest of Guangxi and more areas within China will provide increasingly suitable habitats for colonization byL. invasa.CONCLUSIONThese distribution predications will be useful in determining where preventive and control measures should be implemented against this pest wasp inEucalyptusthroughout China. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Dietary zerumbone, a sesquiterpene, ameliorates hepatotoxin‐mediated acute and chronic liver injury in mice
Authors: Kim Jong‐Won , Yang Daram , Jeong Hyeneui , Park Il Song , Lee Min‐Ho , Lim Chae Woong , Kim Bumseok 
Published: March 2019

Acute liver injury (ALI) is a life‐threatening clinical syndrome. Long‐lasting liver injury can lead to chronic hepatic inflammation and fibrogenic responses. Zerumbone (ZER), the main constituent of rhizomes ofZingiber zerumbetSmith, has a variety of functions including anticancer activity. We investigated the role of ZER on the progression of hepatotoxin‐induced liver injury. Single or repeated injection of CCl4was used to induce acute or chronic liver injury, respectively. Mice were orally administered with ZER (10, 50 mg/kg) during the experimental period. Histopathologic analysis and serum biochemical levels revealed that ZER had hepatoprotective activities against ALI. Similar effects of ZER on injured livers were confirmed by analyses of inflammation and apoptosis‐related genes. Western blot analysis showed that protein levels of apoptotic molecules were decreased, whereas antiapoptotic protein levels were conversely increased in injured livers treated with ZER. Furthermore, chronic liver injury and its associated fibrogenesis in mice were reduced by ZER treatment. These findings from our in vivo experiments further indicate that ZER could alleviate hepatocellular toxicity and inhibit activation of primary hepatic stellate cells. Our results suggest that ZER might have potential as a safe and prophylactic alternative to prevent acute and chronic liver injury.
Nonsiliceous Mesoporous Materials: Design and Applications in Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Wang Yongfei , Guo Hong , Luo Xudong , Liu Xin , Hu Zhizhi , Han Lu , Zhang Zhiqiang 
Published: March 2019

AbstractIn this work, the progress in the design of nonsiliceous mesoporous materials (nonSiMPMs) over the last five years from the perspectives of the chemical composition, morphology, loading, and surface modification is summarized. Carbon, metal, and metal oxide are in focus, which are the most promising compositions. Then, representative applications of nonSiMPMs are demonstrated in energy conversion and storage, including recent technical advances in dye‐sensitized solar cells, perovskite solar cells, photocatalysts, electrocatalysts, fuel cells, storage batteries, supercapacitors, and hydrogen storage systems. Finally, the requirements and challenges of the design and application of nonSiMPMs are outlined.
Autism‐associated Shank3 mutations alter mGluR expression and mGluR‐dependent but not NMDA receptor‐dependent long‐term depression
Authors: Lee Kevin , Vyas Yukti , Garner Craig C. , Montgomery Johanna M. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractSHANK3 is a postsynaptic structural protein localized at excitatory glutamatergic synapses in which deletions and mutations have been implicated in patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The expression of Shank3 ASD mutations causes impairments in ionotropic glutamate receptor‐mediated synaptic responses in neurons, which is thought to underlie ASD‐related behaviors, thereby indicating glutamatergic synaptopathy as one of the major pathogenic mechanisms. However, little is known about the functional consequences of ASD‐associated mutations in Shank3 on another important set of glutamate receptors, group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Here, we further assessed how Shank3 mutations identified in patients with ASD (one de novo InsG mutation and two inherited point mutations, R87C and R375C) disrupt group I mGluR (mGluR1 and mGluR5) expression and function. To identify potential isoform‐specific deficits induced by ASD‐associated Shank3 mutations on group I mGluRs, we surface immunolabeled mGluR1 and mGluR5 independently. We also induced mGluR‐dependent synaptic plasticity (R,S‐3,5‐dihydroxyphenylglycine [DHPG]‐induced long‐term depression [LTD]) as well as N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR)‐dependent LTD. ASD‐associated mutations in Shank3 differentially interfered with the ability of cultured hippocampal neurons to express mGluR5 and mGluR1 at synapses. Intriguingly, all ASD Shank3 mutations impaired mGluR‐dependent LTD without altering NMDAR‐dependent LTD. Our data show that the specific perturbation in mGluR‐dependent synaptic plasticity occurs in neurons expressing ASD‐associated Shank3 mutations, which may underpin synaptic dysfunction and subsequent behavioral deficits in ASD.
Guiding the prioritization of the most endangered and evolutionary distinct birds for new zoo conservation programs
Authors: Biega Alannah M. , Lamont Myles , Mooers Arne , Bowkett Andrew E. , Martin Thomas E. 
Published: March 2019

AbstractZoos have played a pivotal role in the successful reinforcement and reintroduction of species threatened with extinction, but prioritization is required in the face of increasing need and limited capacity. One means of prioritizing between species of equal threat status when establishing new breeding programs is the consideration of evolutionary distinctness (ED). More distinct species have fewer close relatives such that their extinction would result in a greater overall loss to the Tree of Life. Considering global ex situ holdings of birds (a group with a complete and well‐detailed evolutionary tree), we investigate the representation of at‐risk and highly evolutionarily distinct species in global zoo holdings. We identified a total of 2,236 bird species indicated by the Zoological Information Management System as being held in zoological institutions worldwide. As previously reported, imperiled species (defined as those possessing endangered or critically endangered threat status) in this database are less likely to be held in zoos than non‐imperiled species. However, we find that species possessing ED scores within the top 10% of all bird species are more likely to be held in zoos than other species, possibly because they possess unique characteristics that have historically made them popular exhibits. To assist with the selection of high priority ED species for future zoo conservation programs, we provide a list of imperiled species currently not held in zoos, ranked by ED. This list highlights species representing particular priorities for ex situ conservation planners, and represents a practical tool for improving the conservation value of zoological collections.