bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrical component ignition in a closed enclosure adjacent to a controlled fire
Authors: Zavaleta Pascal , Bouygues Olivier , Lapuerta Céline
Published: December 2019

Electrical cabinet fires are one of the main fire hazards in nuclear power plants (NPPs). The electrical cabinets are often arranged in rows of adjacent cabinets (ACs) in NPPs. So the ability of a cabinet fire to spread to ACs is a major concern for fire safety. This work aims to investigate the impact on the fire spread of the air gap between two electrical cabinets, the electrical component type contained in the AC, and its ventilation mode. For that purpose, a test device composed of two adjacent steel enclosures was designed in order to reproduce at reduced‐scale adjacent electrical cabinets. This study first reveals that the studied electrical component types spontaneously ignited when their temperature and the incident heat flux reach critical ignition values. These ignition criteria are assessed for each component type. The tests also show that the air gap increase slows down the rise of the side wall temperature of the two enclosures, which delays the ignition time of the electrical components. This work finally highlights that the mechanical ventilation of the adjacent enclosure (AE) has an impact on the ignition conditions. In contrast, the natural ventilation as implemented in the AE has a small effect on these conditions.
An efficient integrative resampling method for gene–trait association analysis
Authors: Kim Yeonil , Chi Yueh‐Yun , Zou Fei
Published: December 2019

Genetic association studies are popular for identifying genetic variants, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), that are associated with complex traits. Statistical tests are commonly performed one SNP at a time with an assumed mode of inheritance such as recessive, additive, or dominant genetic model. Such analysis can result in inadequate power when the employed model deviates from the underlying true genetic model. We propose an integrative association test procedure under a generalized linear model framework to flexibly model the data from the above three common genetic models and beyond. A computationally efficient resampling procedure is adopted to estimate the null distribution of the proposed test statistic. Simulation results show that our methods maintain the Type I error rate irrespective of the existence of confounding covariates and achieve adequate power compared to the methods with the true genetic model. The new methods are applied to two genetic studies on the resistance of severe malaria and sarcoidosis.
The effect of unemployment on the smoking behavior of couples
Authors: Everding Jakob , Marcus Jan
Published: December 2019

Although unemployment likely entails various externalities, research examining its spillover effects on spouses is scarce. This is the first paper to estimate effects of unemployment on the smoking behavior of both spouses. Using German Socio‐Economic Panel data, we combine matching and difference‐in‐differences estimation, employing the post‐double‐selection method for control variable selection via Lasso regressions. One spouse's unemployment increases both spouses' smoking probability and intensity. Smoking relapses and decreased smoking cessation drive the effects. Effects are stronger if the partner already smokes and if the male partner becomes unemployed. Of several mechanisms discussed, we identify smoking to cope with stress as relevant.
Global financial crisis and multiscale systematic risk: Evidence from selected European stock markets
Authors: Alexandridis Antonios K. , Hasan Mohammad S.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we have investigated the impact of the global financial crisis on the multihorizon nature of systematic risk and market risk using daily data of eight major European equity markets over the period of 2005–2018. The method is based on a wavelet multiscale approach within the framework of a capital asset pricing model. Empirical results demonstrate that beta coefficients have a multiscale tendency, and betas tend to increase at higher scales (lower frequencies). In addition, the size of betas and R2s tends to increase during the crisis period compared with the precrisis period. The multiscale nature of the betas is consistent with the fact that stock market investors have different time horizons due to different trading strategies. Our results based on scale dependent value at risk (VaR) suggest that market risk tends to be more concentrated at lower time scales (higher frequencies) of the data. Moreover, the scale‐by‐scale estimates of VaR have increased almost three folds for every market during the crisis period compared with the precrisis period. Finally, our approach allows for accurately forecasting time‐dependent betas and VaR.
Risk Factors of Severe Hypocalcemia After US-Guided Percutaneous Microwave Ablation of the Parathyroid Gland in Patients with Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Wei Ying , Peng Li-li , Zhao Zhen-long , Li Yan , Yu Ming-an
Published: December 2019

Our aim was to identify potential risk factors associated with severe hypocalcemia (SH) after microwave ablation (MWA) in patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT). This retrospective cross-sectional study enrolled 204 consecutive patients (with 387 parathyroid glands) who underwent MWA between July 2015 and May 2018. Clinical parameters, laboratory indices, and parathyroid gland characteristics were analyzed to assess risk factors associated with SH after MWA. SH was defined as serum calcium level lower than 1.875 mmol/L (7.5 mg/dL) after MWA. Two models (I and II) for pre-MWA and post-MWA prediction were established, respectively. In accordance with the KDIGO guidelines, the target value for intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) less than 300 pg/mL within 7 days after MWA was considered as a successful procedure. The success rate of MWA was 71.6% (146/204). The incidence of hypocalcemia and SH after MWA was 35.8% and 22.06%, respectively. The pre-MWA prediction models I and II showed that high pre-MWA iPTH, a dramatic reduction in iPTH, low pre-MWA serum calcium, multiple ablated gland, and lack of pruritus symptoms were risk factors for developing SH. The accuracy (82.23% versus 83.25% in models I and II, respectively), sensitivity (34.88% versus 44.19%), specificity (95.45% versus 94.59%), positive predictive value (PPV) (68.18% versus 70.37%), and negative predictive value (NPV) (84% versus 85.37%) of both models were promising. The logistic regression fitting of the nomograms showed high prediction efficiency (0.845 and 0.863). High pre-MWA iPTH, dramatic reductions in iPTH, low pre-MWA serum calcium, multiple gland ablation, and no pruritus symptoms were predictors of SH. © 2019 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
On Restraints in End‐Point Protein–Ligand Binding Free Energy Calculations
Authors: Menzer William M. , Xie Bing , Minh David D. L.
Published: December 2019

The impact of harmonic restraints on protein heavy atoms and ligand atoms on end‐point free energy calculations is systematically characterized for 54 protein–ligand complexes. We observe that stronger restraints reduce the equilibration time and statistical inefficiency, suppress conformational sampling, influence correlation with experiment, and monotonically decrease the estimated loss of entropy upon binding, leading to stronger estimated binding free energies in most systems. A statistical estimator that reweights for the biasing potential and includes data prior to the estimated equilibration time has the highest correlation with experiment. A spring constant of 20 cal mol−1 Å−2 maintains a near‐native energy landscape and suppresses artifactual energy minima while minimally limiting thermal fluctuations about the crystal structure. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
LncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis exhibits potential as a biomarker for disease exacerbation, severity, and inflammation in bronchial asthma
Authors: Ye Shenglan , Zhu Shan , Feng Lijuan
Published: December 2019

Background

This study aimed to explore the correlation of lncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis with disease risk, severity, and inflammatory cytokines of bronchial asthma.

Methods

Plasma samples from 90 patients with bronchial asthma at exacerbation (BA‐E), 90 with bronchial asthma at remission (BA‐R), and 90 controls (healthy subjects) were collected. The qPCR was used for lncRNA ANRIL and miR‐125a detection, and ELISA was adopted for pro‐inflammatory cytokines detection. Participants’ characteristics, laboratory tests, and the pulmonary ventilation function examinations were recorded.

Results

LncRNA ANRIL was negatively correlated with miR‐125a in BA‐E patients, BA‐R patients, and controls. LncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis was upregulated in BA‐E patients compared with BA‐R patients and controls. ROC curve analyses illuminated that lncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis was of good value in distinguishing BA‐E patients from BA‐R patients and controls. As to pulmonary ventilation functions, lncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis was negatively associated with FEV1/FVC and FEV1%predicted in bronchial asthma patients, especially in BA‐E patients. Regarding inflammation, lncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis was positively correlated with pro‐inflammatory cytokines in bronchial asthma patients, especially in BA‐E patients. In addition, lncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a axis was positively correlated with exacerbation severity in BA‐E patients.

Conclusion

LncRNA ANRIL/miR‐125a is potentially indicative of disease exacerbation, exacerbation severity, and inflammation for bronchial asthma, while these findings are preliminary and need further confirmation.
Rolling a trauma patient onto the right side increases sensitivity of FAST examination
Authors: Pigneri Danielle A. , Behm Robert J. , Granet Paul J.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Hemoperitoneum in the hypotensive trauma patient is an indication for emergent laparotomy. Focused assessment sonography in trauma (FAST) is a widely used tool for detecting hemoperitoneum. The usefulness of FAST is currently limited by low sensitivity. We hypothesize rolling patients onto their right side will pool small volumes of fluid into the right upper quadrant of the abdomen leading to increased sensitivity.

Methods

Peritoneal dialysis patients were recruited for voluntary participation in a small pilot prospective clinical trial. Each participant first underwent a supine FAST followed by a 30‐second roll onto the right side. Once back in the supine position, the FAST was repeated (FASTeR or FAST examination after right‐sided roll). About 50 mL aliquots of dialysate were sequentially infused into the abdomen and the imaging sequence repeated until a positive finding was obtained.

Results

Seven patients were consented for the study. One patient was found to have an equivocal examination secondary to renal cysts. All six remaining participants converted to a positive FASTeR at an intra‐abdominal fluid volume at which standard FAST was negative.

Conclusions

Rolling patients to the right side increased FAST sensitivity, converting false‐negative to true positives examinations. A larger study is needed to validate our preliminary data.
High prevalence of self‐reported autism spectrum disorder in the Propionic Acidemia Registry
Authors: Cotrina Maria L. , Ferreiras Sindy , Schneider Patricia
Published: December 2019

Propionic Acidemia (PA) is characterized by the accumulation of propionic acid (PPA), its toxic derivatives, and ammonia. The disease causes multiorgan damage, especially in heart, pancreas, and brain; seizures and intellectual disability are often described. Some PA children also show autism spectrum disorders (ASD). In this study, we have compiled data from 62 individuals from the Propionic Acidemia International Patient Registry and compared it to the published literature on the prevalence of autism in PA. The PA registry shows a significant proportion of ASD diagnoses that is consistent with the combined prevalence reported in the literature. It also shows that ASD in PA is gender balanced and it is diagnosed at older ages (median age 8 years) than in the national registry for autism (median age 4.3 years), which raises the possibility, among others, of PA specific risk factors affecting the natural history of ASD. Data from patient registries provide valuable information on studying the mechanisms involved in a rare disease, although more outreach effort must be done to increase participation and consistency in data entry.
Frequency of subclinical herpes zoster in pediatric hematology‐oncology patients receiving chemotherapy: A retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Kozawa Kei , Miura Hiroki , Kawamura Yoshiki , Tanaka Makito , Kudo Kazuko , Higashimoto Yuki , Ihira Masaru , Yoshikawa Tetsushi
Published: December 2019

Varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) reactivation from the enteric nervous system can cause ileus (Ogilvie's syndrome) in adult patients. Since no pediatric cases have been described, we sought to retrospectively analyze VZV reactivation in pediatric hematology‐oncology patients to determine whether VZV infection including subclinical VZV reactivation can induce gastrointestinal complications such as Ogilvie's syndrome. Thirty‐five patients who received chemotherapy at our institution between September 2013 and June 2018 were included. Serum samples were collected weekly during hospitalization and every 3 months during outpatient maintenance chemotherapy. A real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay was used to measure VZV DNA load in serum. The clinical features of patients with VZV infection were retrospectively analyzed. Of 1165 serum samples, 7 (0.6%) were positive for VZV DNA. VZV DNA was detected in 3 of 35 patients. In patient A, VZV DNA was detected during two episodes. The first episode involved varicella‐like eruptions caused by the Oka VZV vaccine strain. The second episode involved herpes zoster (HZ) caused by the same strain. Patients B and C had a clinical course that was typical for HZ caused by wild‐type VZV. No gastrointestinal symptoms were observed at the time of VZV infection in these three patients. VZV DNA was not detected in any other samples. No pediatric cases with Ogilvie's syndrome caused by VZV reactivation were demonstrated in this cohort. Additionally, no subclinical VZV reactivation was found in this cohort. Further study is needed to elucidate the precise incidence of pediatric Ogilvie's syndrome caused by VZV reactivation.
Fish oil/lycopene microcapsules as a source of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids: a case study on spreads
Authors: Solomando Juan Carlos , Antequera Teresa , González‐Mohíno Alberto , Perez‐Palacios Trinidad
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

The consumption of omega‐3 fatty acids has many beneficial effects for human health, but the intake of foods rich in these fatty acids is not enough to achieve the recommended quantity per person and per day, and their direct addition in foods cause oxidation and unacceptable rancidity and off‐flavor. Taking account of all these aspects, this study was aimed to develop stable microcapsules of fish oil (omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) and lycopene (antioxidant) and to investigate their effect on different spreads.

RESULTS

The inclusion of different proportions of lycopene in fish oil did not show great benefits in the quality characteristics of emulsions and microcapsules. After the addition of fish oil and fish oil + lycopene microcapsules to dry‐cured ham and cheese spreads, no significant differences were found in the proximal composition and oxidative stability, whereas fatty acids composition and sensory analysis were influenced. The eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids content increased with the fish oil content in both products, but it decreased significantly after storage in the cheese spreads. Addition of microcapsules did not significantly influence on quantitative–descriptive and acceptability sensory analyses in dry‐cured spreads, but it negatively affected the flavor of cheese spreading creams.

CONCLUSION

There is no need to add antioxidants to improve the stability of the fish oil microcapsules in the present study, which are appropriate as eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid vehicles to enrich meat‐derived spreading creams. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of l‐theanine on growth performance, intestinal development and health, and peptide and amino acid transporters expression of broilers
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Wang Chi , Chen Kaikai , Zhao Xiaohui , Geng Zhaoyu
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

l‐Theanine has multiple beneficial biological activities. However, there is little information about the use of l‐theanine in broiler production. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of l‐theanine on growth performance, intestinal development and health, and the mRNA levels of intestinal peptide and amino acid (AA) transporters of broilers.

RESULTS

Body weight and average daily gain were increased by l‐theanine, whereas feed to gain ratio was decreased (quadratic, P < 0.05). Notably, the relative weight of duodenum, jejunum and ileum, villus height, villus height to crypt depth ratio, the jejunal activities of glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, catalase and total superoxide dismutase were increased linearly and/or quadratically by l‐theanine (P < 0.05), whereas crypt depth, serum d‐lactic acid, and jejunal protein carbonyls and malondialdehyde content were decreased linearly and/or quadratically (P < 0.05). Moreover, l‐theanine enhanced the jejunal mRNA levels of occludin, claudin‐1, E‐cadherin, zona occludens‐1, di‐ and tripeptide transporter, excitatory AA transporter 3, Na+‐independent cationic AA transporter 1, Na+‐independent cationic and zwitterionic AA transporter, Na+‐ and Cl−‐dependent neutral and cationic AA transporter, Na+‐independent cationic and Na+‐dependent neutral AA transporter (y+LAT) 1, y+LAT2, Na+‐independent branched‐chain and aromatic AA transporter, and heavy chain corresponding to the b°,+ transport system (linear and/or quadratic, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

l‐Theanine beneficially affected the growth performance of broilers by improving intestinal development and health, and the intestinal mRNA levels of AA and peptide transporters. Therefore, l‐theanine has the potential to be a promising feed additive for broilers. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of pruning time and viral infection on stilbenoid levels in Pinot noir grape canes
Authors: S De Bona Gicele , Bertazzon Nadia , Angelini Elisa , Vincenzi Simone
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND

Grapevine canes represent a large source of waste derived from grape cultivation. In the present study, the effect of different processes of storage and different pruning times on the stilbene accumulation on Pinot noir canes was analyzed. Whether the alteration of the secondary metabolism accompanying leafroll symptom expressions could affect the stilbenoid accumulation in canes harvested at pruning time was also investigated.

RESULTS

The maximum accumulation of trans‐resveratrol and trans‐piceatannol was obtained in canes harvested in October and dried at 40 °C. Even in grape canes harvested in October, November, and December and stored for different times at room temperature (20 ± 2 °C) a marked increase in trans‐resveratrol and trans‐piceatannol was evident, which reached a maximum at around 8 weeks of storage. A significant higher accumulation of trans‐resveratrol and trans‐piceatannol was also found in canes harvested from symptomatic plants compared to those harvested from asymptomatic plants for all the pruning times.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that the biosynthetic enzyme activities and, particularly, those involved in the stilbene pathway, persist during Pinot noir cane storage at different harvest times, with different storage times and conditions, and different sanitary status. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Determination of four bisphenols in water and urine samples by magnetic dispersive solid‐phase extraction using a modified zeolite/iron oxide composite prior to liquid chromatography diode array detection
Authors: Baile Paola , Medina Juan , Vidal Lorena , Canals Antonio
Published: December 2019

A novel approach is presented to determine four bisphenols in water and urine samples, employing magnetic dispersive solid‐phase extraction combined with liquid chromatography and diode array detection. A modified zeolite‐based magnetic composite was used as an efficient sorbent, combining the advantages of magnetic materials with the remarkable properties of zeolites. A multivariate optimization design was employed to optimize some experimental factors affecting magnetic dispersive solid‐phase extraction. The method was evaluated under optimized conditions (i.e., amount of sorbent, 50 mg; sample pH, unadjusted; NaCl concentration, 1.25%; extraction and elution time, 2 min; eluent solvent, ethanol; eluent solvent volume, 400 µL), obtaining good linearity with correlation coefficients ranging between 0.995 and 0.999 (N = 5) (from 2 to 250 µg/L for bisphenol A, bisphenol AP, and bisphenol P and from 5 to 250 µg/L for bisphenol AF). Method repeatability was assessed obtaining coefficients of variation between 3 and 11% (n = 6). Finally, the method was applied to spiked real samples, obtaining for water samples relative recoveries between 83 and 105%, and for urine samples between 81 and 108% for bisphenol A, bisphenol AP, and bisphenol AF, and between 47 and 59% for bisphenol P.
Prognostic Value of a Family History of Oral Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Matched‐Pair Study
Authors: Cui Meng , Du Wei , Fang Qigen , Dai Liyuan , Qi Jinxing , Luo Ruihua
Published: December 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

To analyze the prognostic value of a family cancer history for predicting survival in patients with oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Each patient with a family history was paired with one patient with sporadic oral tongue SCC without a family history. The primary endpoint was disease‐specific survival (DSS).

Results

In total, 124 patients were enrolled as participants with a family cancer history, and the 5‐year DSS rate was 51%. In the matched group, the 5‐year DSS rate was 40%. The difference was significant (P = .032). In the smoking patients with a family history, the 5‐year DSS rate was 43%. In the smoking patients from the matched group, the 5‐year DSS rate was 17%; the difference was significant (P = .028). In nonsmoking patients with a history of cancer, the 5‐year DSS rate was 51%; in nonsmoking patients in the matched group, the 5‐year DSS rate was 40%; the difference was not significant (P = .141).

Conclusions

A family cancer history is associated with improved DSS in surgically treated oral tongue SCC patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:E605–E610, 2020
Sponges represent a major source of inorganic nitrogen in Florida Bay (U.S.A.)
Authors: Hoer Daniel R. , Sharp William , Delgado Gabriel , Lindquist Niels L. , Martens Christopher S.
Published: December 2019

Florida Bay nutrient budgets have shown that the majority of existing and influent nitrogen (N) is in organic forms. Consequently, local remineralization processes have been found to regulate the supply of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN). Sponges have dominated benthic animal biomass in Florida Bay and are known to influence local DIN concentrations through remineralization organic matter, yet the role of these organisms in local N budgets is largely unaddressed. We quantified the role of sponges in N cycling in Florida Bay during 2012–2013 by constructing an N budget for a sponge‐rich basin. Surveys of sponge biomass conducted in Mystery Basin found sponges at 57 of the 59 assessed stations. Sponge population maxima reached 21 individuals m−2 and biomass contributions as high as 4.4 Lsponge m−2. We estimated an average areal DIN contribution from total sponge biomass of 0.59 ± 0.28 mmol N m−2 d−1. However, calculated fluxes from the 59 stations exhibited significant spatial variability associated with changes in the size and species composition of the sponge community; peak N fluxes reached 3.5 ± 0.9 mmol N m−2 d−1 in areas with large populations of high microbial abundance sponges. The average flux from the sponge community was the largest of the estimated sources of DIN to Mystery Basin, representing roughly half of the overall N sourcing. This N satisfied more than half of the demand by primary productivity. These results indicate that sponges are important sources of inorganic N to Florida Bay environments.
Stable isotopes indicate ecosystem restructuring following climate‐driven mangrove dieback
Authors: Harada Yota , Fry Brian , Lee Shing Yip , Maher Damien T. , Sippo James Z. , Connolly Rod M.
Published: December 2019

Extreme climatic events can trigger sudden but often long‐lasting impacts in ecosystems by causing near to complete mortality of foundation (habitat‐forming) species. The magnitude and frequency of such events are expected to rise due to anthropogenic climate change, but the impacts that such events have on many foundation species and the ecosystems that they support remains poorly understood. In many cases, manipulative experimentation is extremely challenging and rarely feasible at a large scale. In late 2015 to early 2016, an extensive area of mangrove forest along ∼ 1000 km of coastline in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Australia, experienced severe dieback, an event associated with climatic extremes. To assess the effect this dieback event had on the mangrove ecosystem, we assessed benthic faunal assemblages and food web structure using stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in a comparative experiment of impacted forest and adjacent unimpacted forest. Eighteen months after the dieback, the forest that suffered dieback contained significantly fewer crabs that rely on mangrove litter food source but more crabs that rely on microphytobenthos food source than the unimpacted forest. However, the infaunal biomass was largely unaffected by the mortality effect. This is most likely because microphytobenthos was largely unaffected and consequently, this buffered the food web responses. However, overall, the habitat value for mangrove ecosystem services most likely decreased due to lower physical habitat complexity following tree mortality. Longer‐term monitoring could lead to better understanding of biological effects of this extreme event and underlying biological mechanisms that drive changes and recovery.
Transoral Low‐Level Laser Therapy Via a Cylindrical Device to Treat Oral Ulcers in a Rodent Model
Authors: Lee Hyoung Shin , Lee Yechan , Jeong Unyoung , Oh Sunju , Hwang Chi Woo , Kang Hyun Wook
Published: December 2019

Background and Objective

Various clinical and animal studies have applied low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) to treat oral ulcers. However, most previous studies applied lasers with small pinpoint irradiation, which required multiple laser irradiations to cover the complete extent of the ulcer. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of LLLT using a 635 nm diode laser via a transoral device to cover the whole lesion on oral ulcers in an animal model.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

An animal model of oral ulcers was developed with a 6 mm skin punch in the right buccal mucosa of Wistar rats (males, body weight 200–250 g). Three days after the mucosal injury, LLLT (spot size 2 cm2) was conducted once a day for 5 days. Twenty‐eight rats were randomly assigned into four groups according to energy density (control group, 5, 20, 75 J/cm2). The size of the ulcers was measured and histologic analysis were performed ten days after the initial mucosal injury.

Results

The mean size of the oral ulcers was significantly smaller in rats treated with an energy density of 20 J/cm2 than that of any other group (control group or energy densities of 5 or 75 J/cm2). The irradiation of oral ulcers with an energy density of 20 J/cm2 accelerated the oral mucosa wound healing process and decreased inflammation and granulation tissue, resulting in good reepithelization. However, the histologic outcomes of rats irradiated with energy densities of 5 or 75 J/cm2 were comparable with those of the control group.

Conclusion

LLLT using a 635 nm diode laser for oral ulcers with a transoral cylindrical device for wide light distribution may accelerate the wound healing process. LLLT with large‐surface irradiation may be a substitute for previous LLLT for oral mucosal lesions conducted in a punctuate manner. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of ocean mixed‐layer depth initialization on the simulation of tropical cyclones over the Bay of Bengal using the WRF‐ARW model
Authors: Yesubabu Viswanadhapalli , Kattamanchi Vijaya Kumari , Vissa Naresh Krishna , Dasari Hari Prasad , Sarangam Vijaya Bhaskara Rao
Published: December 2019

The sensitivity of the simulated tropical cyclone (TC) intensity and tracks to the different ocean mixed‐layer depth (MLD) initializations is studied using coupled weather research and forecasting (WRF) and ocean mixed‐layer (OML) models. Four sets of numerical experiments are conducted for two TCs formed during the pre‐ and post‐monsoon. In the control run (CONTROL), the WRF model is initialized without coupling. In the second experiment, the WRF‐OML model is initialized by prescribing the MLD as a constant depth of 50 m (MLD‐CONST). In the third experiment, the spatial varying MLD obtained from the formulation of depth of the isothermal layer (MLD‐TEMP) is used. For the fourth experiment (MLD‐DENS), the model is initialized with the density‐based MLD obtained from ARMOR‐3D data. The results indicate that the CONTROL exhibits an early intensification phase with a faster translation movement, leading to early landfall and the production of large track deviations. The coupled OML simulations captured the deepening phase close to the observed estimates, resulting in the reduction of errors in both the vector and along the tracks of the storm. The initialization of the different estimates of the MLD in the WRF‐OML shows that the TC intensity and translation speed are sensitive to the initial representation of the MLD for the post‐monsoon storm. The gradual improvements in the intensity and translation speed of the storm with the realistic representation of the OML are mainly due to the storm‐induced cooling, which in turn alters the simulated enthalpy fluxes supplied to the TC, leading to the better representation of secondary circulation and the rapid intensification of the storm.
Association of polymorphism in heat shock protein 70 genes with type 2 diabetes in Bangladeshi population
Authors: Moniruzzaman Md. , Ahmed Irfan , Huq Saaimatul , All Mahmud Md. Shakur , Begum Sonya , Mahzabin Amin U.S. , Rahman Md. Hadisur , Sarker Palash Kumar , Hossain Mohammad Uzzal , Das Keshob Chandra , Salimullah Md.
Published: December 2019

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disorder of which stress is a major contributor. Under stressful condition, body synthesizes a family of molecular chaperone called Heat‐shock proteins (HSPs). Current study assessed the frequency and association of HSP70‐hom + 2,437 T/C polymorphism with T2DM risk among Bangladeshis.

Methods

This polymorphism was selected through bioinformatics analyses and identified by PCR‐RFLP method.

Results

Bioinformatics analysis identified this SNP as missense mutation which could destabilize the final HSP product. Heterozygous mutant (CT) genotype was significantly associated with T2DM incidence among the studied populations (p = .015). Further analysis revealed a strong association with female patients (p = .002), while the male group showed no association (p = .958). Moreover, the C allele was significantly associated among all diabetic patients (p = .016) and particularly in the female patient group (p = .001). However, under stressful condition, males with CT genotype were at high risk for T2DM incidence whereas, females with CT genotype showed no significant association.

Conclusions

HSP70‐hom + 2,437 T/C polymorphism was found to be significantly associated with T2DM incidence in the Bangladeshi population in both stress‐dependent and independent manners.
Prevalence of mutations in inherited retinal diseases: A comparison between the United States and India
Authors: Yohe Sophia , Sivasankar Malaichamy , Ghosh Anuprita , Ghosh Arkasubhra , Holle Jennifer , Murugan Sakthivel , Gupta Ravi , Schimmenti Lisa A. , Vedam Ramprasad , Thyagarajan Bharat
Published: December 2019

Background

Studies evaluating next‐generation sequencing (NGS) for retinal disorders may not reflect clinical practice. We report results of retrospective analysis of patients referred for clinical testing at two institutions (US and India).

Methods

This retrospective study of 131 patients who underwent clinically validated targeted NGS or exome sequencing for a wide variety of clinical phenotypes categorized results into a definitive, indeterminate, or negative molecular diagnosis.

Results

A definitive molecular diagnosis (52%) was more common in the India cohort (62% vs. 39%, p = .009), while an indeterminate molecular diagnosis occurred only in the US cohort (12%). In the US cohort, a lower diagnostic rate in Hispanic, non‐Caucasians (23%) was seen compared to Caucasians (57%). The India cohort had a high rate of homozygous variants (61%) and different frequency of genes involved compared to the US cohort.

Conclusion

Despite inherent limitations in clinical testing, the diagnostic rate across the two cohorts (52%) was similar to the 50%–65% diagnostic rate in the literature. However, the diagnostic rate was lower in the US cohort and appears partly explained by racial background. The high rate of consanguinity in the Indian population is reflected in the high rate of homozygosity for pathogenic mutations and may have implications for population level screening and genetic counseling. Clinical laboratories may note diagnostic rates that differ from the literature, due to factors such as heterogeneity in racial background or consanguinity rates in the populations being tested. This information may be useful for post‐test counseling.
A new impedance matching approach for microstrip Rotman lens based on analyzing the standing wave pattern of an electric field
Authors: Al‐Obaidi Mohammed K. , Abdullah Noorsaliza , Dahlan Samsul H. , Yahya Roshayati , Mohd Ezri
Published: December 2019

This article proposes a new impedance matching method to provide an energy transformer between 50 Ω beam ports and the cavity of a Rotman lens. The model is derived from a quarter length transition line impedance transformer. The suggested matching technique is based on determining and analyzing standing wave patterns of electric field signals underneath feeding lines of the beam ports when they are excited with a designed frequency of 2.45 GHz. The proposed approach demonstrates the ability of the model to achieve an acceptable return loss compared to traditional taper line model matching methods, even though it increases the operating bandwidth frequency based on the measured results. Moreover, it solves the optimization iteration time consuming that is required to determine the tapering line length used in the conventional impedance matching techniques. The predicted results of the return loss are validated by measurements of the fabricated prototype microstrip lens printed on an FR‐4 substrate that is designed to work in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band in order to form five beams in the directions −26°, −13°, 0°, 13°, and 26°.
Prostate cancer assessment using MR elastography of fresh prostatectomy specimens at 9.4 T
Authors: Reiter Rolf , Majumdar Shreyan , Kearney Steven , Kajdacsy‐Balla Andre , Macias Virgilia , Crivellaro Simone , Caldwell Brandon , Abern Michael , Royston Thomas J. , Klatt Dieter
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Despite its success in the assessment of prostate cancer (PCa), in vivo multiparametric MRI has limitations such as interobserver variability and low specificity. Several MRI methods, among them MR elastography, are currently being discussed as candidates for supplementing conventional multiparametric MRI. This study aims to investigate the detection of PCa in fresh ex vivo human prostatectomy specimens using MR elastography.

Methods

Fourteen fresh prostate specimens from men with clinically significant PCa without formalin fixation or prior radiation therapy were examined by MR elastography at 500 Hz immediately after radical prostatectomy in a 9.4T preclinical scanner. Specimens were divided into 12 segments for both calculation of storage modulus (G′ in kilopascals) and pathology (Gleason score) as reference standard. Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve were calculated to assess PCa detection.

Results

The mean G′ and SD were as follows: all segments, 8.74 ± 5.26 kPa; healthy segments, 5.44 ± 4.40 kPa; and cancerous segments, 10.84 ± 4.65 kPa. The difference between healthy and cancerous segments was significant with P ≤ .001. Diagnostic performance assessed with the Youden index was as follows: sensitivity, 69%; specificity, 79%; area under the curve, 0.81; and cutoff, 10.67 kPa.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that prostate MR elastography has the potential to improve diagnostic performance of multiparametric MRI, especially regarding its 2 major limitations: interobserver variability and low specificity. Particularly the high value for specificity in PCa detection is a stimulating result and encourages further investigation of this method.
Examination of the human motor endplate after brachial plexus injury with two‐photon microscopy
Authors: Chan Justin P. , Clune James , Shah Sameer B. , Ward Samuel R. , Kocsis Jeffery D. , Mozaffar Tahseen , Steward Oswald , Gupta Ranjan
Published: December 2019

Introduction

After traumatic nerve injury, neuromuscular junction remodeling plays a key role in determining functional outcomes. Immunohistochemical analyses of denervated muscle biopsies may provide valuable prognostic data regarding clinical outcomes to supplement electrodiagnostic studies.

Methods

We performed biopsies on nonfunctioning deltoid muscles in two patients after gunshot wounds and visualized the neuromuscular junctions using two‐photon microscopy with immunohistochemistry.

Results

Although the nerves in both patients showed evidence of acute Wallerian degeneration, some of the motor endplates were intact but exhibited significantly decreased surface area and volume. Both patients exhibited substantial recovery of motor function over several weeks postinjury.

Discussion

Two‐photon microscopic assessment of neuromuscular junction integrity and motor endplate morphometry in muscle biopsies provided evidence of partial sparing of muscle innervation. This finding supported the clinical judgment that eventual recovery would occur. With further study, this technique may help to guide operative decisionmaking after traumatic nerve injuries.
How can we improve investigation, prevention and treatment for recurrent urinary tract infections – ICI‐RS 2018
Authors: Harding Chris , Rantell Angela , Cardozo Linda , Jacobson Susan Kim , Anding Ralf , Kirschner‐Hermanns Ruth , Greenwell Tamsin , Swamy Sheela , Malde Sachin , Abrams Paul
Published: December 2019

Background

Recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI) is a chronic condition and has a significant impact on health‐related quality of life. The commonly used definition for rUTI is greater than three episodes in a year or more than two in 6 months. Current diagnostic methods have been used worldwide for over five decades, despite well evidenced criticism. Enhanced culture techniques demonstrate that the microbiome of the bladder is far more complex than previously thought and begs a reappraisal of our current testing. Treatment of rUTI is based on a small number of antibiotic trials with some evidence showing a reduction in the number of positive cultures, but one must be cautious in interpreting the results and weigh against the risk of generation of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Aim

The International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society think tank reviewed the literature with a view to improving investigation, prevention and treatment of rUTI.

Methods

A multidisciplinary team of experts were invited to present evidence regarding the current diagnostic methods, recent advances related to bladder biome mapping and current treatment strategies, including antibiotic and nonantibiotic options. Current guidelines regarding antibiotic stewardship and concerns regarding AMR were discussed.

Discussion

Outcome of the think tank discussions are summarised with a set of recommendations to inform future research. Particular consideration is given to bacterial survival in the bladder after treatment as well as defects in urothelial barrier function which may play a significant part in the failure to eradicate UTI.
Recommendations and future research initiative to optimize bladder management in pregnancy and childbirth International Consultation on Incontinence ‐ Research society 2018
Authors: Rantell Angie , Veit‐Rubin Nikolaus , Giarenis Ilias , Khullar Vik , Abrams Paul , Cardozo Linda
Published: December 2019

With increasing birth rates globally, obstetric bladder care and long term pelvic floor dysfunction continues to be a issue. This paper aims to provide an overview of the concerns in the antenatal, intrapartum an post partum periods and presents recommendation for the research requirements necessary and education to challenge current practice.
Numerical algorithms for the time‐Caputo and space‐Riesz fractional Bloch‐Torrey equations
Authors: Ding Hengfei , Li Changpin
Published: December 2019

In this paper, high‐order numerical methods for time‐Caputo and space‐Riesz fractional Bloch‐Torrey equations in one‐ and two‐dimensional space are constructed, where the second‐order backward fractional difference operator and the sixth‐order fractional‐compact difference operator are applied to approximate the time and space fractional derivatives, respectively. The stability and convergence of the methods are analyzed and it is shown that the convergence orders are higher than the earlier work. Finally, some numerical experiments are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the methods and confirm our theoretical results.
Predictive control of a water distribution system based on process historian data
Authors: Salvador Jose R. , Muñoz de la Peña D. , Ramirez D.R. , Alamo T.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, a heuristic historian data‐based predictive control strategy is presented and used to control a water distribution system simulated using the EPANET software, in particular, the Richmond water distribution system. The control actions are computed based on past historian data. The historian stores closed‐loop operation data of the process with different controllers used in the past, which may not provide sufficient information for a precise system nor controller identification. The proposed predictive controller computes the current control actions as a weighted sum of past control actions so that an estimation of the performance cost over a prediction horizon is minimized. Only a subset of the past control actions in the historian close to the current state of the process is considered in the current control computations to carry out a local linearization. This predictive strategy is well suited to control applications of large and complex processes for which it is difficult to carry out identification experiments such as water distribution systems. In the application example, the trajectories of a set of relay controllers are used through the proposed approach to take into account pressure constraints and periodic references.
Reduction of IL‐6 gene expression in human adipose tissue after sleeve gastrectomy surgery
Authors: Casimiro Isabel , Hanlon Erin C. , White Jeremy , De Leon Avelino , Ross Ruby , Moise Katiannah , Piron Matthew , Brady Matthew J.
Published: December 2019

Objective

There is increasing evidence that immune cell interactions in adipose tissue contribute to the development of metabolic dysfunction. Pro‐inflammatory cytokines have been shown to mediate insulin resistance, and the presence of macrophages is a salient feature in the development of obesity. The present study aimed to evaluate adipocyte size and macrophage activation in women before and 3 months after laparoscopic vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG).

Methods

Subcutaneous abdominal adipose tissue biopsies were obtained from women scheduled to undergo VSG. Histological evaluation of adipocytes and macrophages was performed as well as cytokine expression quantification before and after VSG‐induced weight loss.

Results

Weight loss following VSG resulted in a reduction in adipocyte size as well as a decrease in interleukin (IL)‐6 cytokine mRNA expression in subcutaneous adipose tissue. There was no change in the presence of crownlike structures after weight loss.

Conclusions

Early weight loss after VSG is associated with a reduction in adipocyte size and a decline in IL‐6 gene expression in local adipose tissue. Macrophage infiltration and crownlike density structures persist in adipose tissue from tissues impacted by excess body weight 3 months after VSG‐induced weight loss.
Proteomic Profile of Human Schwann Cells
Authors: Ferdoushi Aysha , Li Xiang , Jamaluddin Muhammad Fairuz Bin , Hondermarck Hubert
Published: December 2019

Schwann cells (SC) are essential for the growth, maintenance, and regeneration of peripheral nerves, but the proteome of normal human SC is poorly defined. Here, a proteomic analysis by LC–MS/MS is performed to define the protein expression profile of primary human SC. A total of 19 557 unique peptides corresponding to 1553 individual proteins are identified. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA), Gene Ontology (GO), and Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) are used to assign protein localization and function, and to define enriched pathways. EIF2, mTOR, and integrin signaling are among the most enriched pathways and the most enriched biological function is cell–cell adhesion, which is in agreement with the supportive role of SC in peripheral nerves. In addition, several nociceptors and synaptic proteins are identified and may contribute to the recently discovered role of SC in pain sensation and cancer progression. This proteome analysis of normal human SC constitutes a reference for future molecular explorations of physiological and pathological processes where SC are involved.
Absolute spatially and time‐resolved O, O3, and air densities in the effluent of a modulated RF‐driven atmospheric pressure plasma jet obtained by molecular beam mass spectrometry
Authors: Jiang Jingkai , Luo Yuchen , Moldgy Ankit , Aranda Gonzalvo Yolanda , Bruggeman Peter J.
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we report a molecular beam mass spectrometer study of a time‐modulated radiofrequency (RF)‐driven atmospheric pressure plasma jet in Ar + 1% O2. Time‐resolved measurements of the absolute density of O3 during the RF modulation period revealed a temporal increase of O3 densities at the start and end of the power modulation. This increase correlates with the increase in O2 due to plasma‐induced transient vortices in the gas jet. Pseudo‐one‐dimensional plug flow modeling of the axial species densities as a function of distance match well with the experimentally recorded trends. The obtained results were used to assess the importance of the O flux in previously reported ClO− production in saline by the same plasma jet.