bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel machine learning algorithm, Bayesian networks model, to predict the high‐risk patients with cardiac surgery‐associated acute kidney injury
Authors: Li Yang , Xu Jiarui , Wang Yimei , Zhang Yunlu , Jiang Wuhua , Shen Bo , Ding Xiaoqiang
Published: May 2020

Background

Cardiac surgery‐associated acute kidney injury (CSA‐AKI) is a well‐recognized complication with an ominous outcome.

Hypothesis

Bayesian networks (BNs) not only can reveal the complex interrelationships between predictors and CSA‐AKI, but predict the individual risk of CSA‐AKI occurrence.

Methods

During 2013 and 2015, we recruited 5533 eligible participants who underwent cardiac surgery from a tertiary hospital in eastern China. Data on demographics, clinical and laboratory information were prospectively recorded in the electronic medical system and analyzed by gLASSO‐logistic regression and BNs.

Results

The incidences of CSA‐AKI and severe CSA‐AKI were 37.5% and 11.1%. BNs model revealed that gender, left ventricular ejection fractions (LVEF), serum creatinine (SCr), serum uric acid (SUA), platelet, and aortic cross‐clamp time (ACCT) were found as the parent nodes of CSA‐AKI, while ultrafiltration volume and postoperative central venous pressure (CVP) were connected with CSA‐AKI as children nodes. In the severe CSA‐AKI model, age, proteinuria, and SUA were directly linked to severe AKI; the new nodes of NYHA grade and direct bilirubin created relationships with severe AKI through was related to LVEF, surgery types, and SCr level. The internal AUCs for predicting CSA‐AKI and severe AKI were 0.755 and 0.845, which remained 0.736 and 0.816 in the external validation. Given the known variables, the risk for CSA‐AKI can be inferred at individual levels based on the established BNs model and prior information.

Conclusion

BNs model has a high accuracy, good interpretability, and strong generalizability in predicting CSA‐AKI. It facilitates physicians to identify high‐risk patients and implement protective strategies to improve the prognosis.
Potentially avoidable hospitalizations after chemotherapy: Differences across medicare and the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Gidwani‐Marszowski Risha , Faricy‐Anderson Katherine , Asch Steven M. , Illarmo Samantha , Ananth Lakshmi , Patel Manali I.
Published: May 2020

Background

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has released quality measures regarding potentially avoidable hospitalizations visits in the 30 days after receipt of outpatient chemotherapy. This study evaluated the proportions of patients treated by Medicare‐reimbursed clinicians and Veterans Health Administration (VA) clinicians who experienced avoidable acute care in order to evaluate differences in health system performance.

Methods

This retrospective evaluation of Medicare and VA administrative data used a cohort of cancer decedents (fiscal years 2010‐2014). Cohort members were veterans aged 66 years or older at death who were dually enrolled in Medicare and the VA. Chemotherapy was identified through International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and Current Procedural Terminology (ICD-9) codes. CMS defines avoidable hospitalizations as those related to anemia, dehydration, diarrhea, emesis, fever, nausea, neutropenia, pain, pneumonia, or sepsis in the 30 days after chemotherapy. Following CMS guidance, this study compared the proportions of patients with potentially avoidable hospitalizations, using hierarchical generalized estimating equations.

Results

There were 27,443 patients who received outpatient chemotherapy. Patients receiving Medicare chemotherapy were significantly more likely to have potentially avoidable hospitalizations than patients receiving VA chemotherapy (adjusted odds ratio, 1.58; 95% confidence interval, 1.41‐1.78; P < .001). In predicted estimates, 7.1% of Medicare‐treated veterans had potentially avoidable hospitalizations in the 30 days after chemotherapy, compared with 4.6% of VA‐treated veterans.

Conclusions

Results indicate veterans with cancer receiving chemotherapy in the VA have higher quality care with respect to avoidable hospitalizations than veterans receiving chemotherapy through Medicare. As more veterans seek care in the private sector under the Maintaining Internal Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks (MISSION) Act, concerted efforts may be warranted to ensure that veterans do not experience a decline in care quality.
The BiTE (bispecific T‐cell engager) platform: Development and future potential of a targeted immuno‐oncology therapy across tumor types
Authors: Einsele Hermann , Borghaei Hossein , Orlowski Robert Z. , Subklewe Marion , Roboz Gail J. , Zugmaier Gerhard , Kufer Peter , Iskander Karim , Kantarjian Hagop M.
Published: May 2020

Immuno‐oncology therapies engage the immune system to treat cancer. BiTE (bispecific T‐cell engager) technology is a targeted immuno‐oncology platform that connects patients' own T cells to malignant cells. The modular nature of BiTE technology facilitates the generation of molecules against tumor‐specific antigens, allowing off‐the‐shelf immuno‐oncotherapy. Blinatumomab was the first approved canonical BiTE molecule and targets CD19 surface antigens on B cells, making blinatumomab largely independent of genetic alterations or intracellular escape mechanisms. Additional BiTE molecules in development target other hematologic malignancies (eg, multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, and B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma) and solid tumors (eg, prostate cancer, glioblastoma, gastric cancer, and small‐cell lung cancer). BiTE molecules with an extended half‐life relative to the canonical BiTE molecules are also being developed. Advances in immuno‐oncology made with BiTE technology could substantially improve the treatment of hematologic and solid tumors and offer enhanced activity in combination with other treatments.
Ki‐67 proliferation index in neuroendocrine tumors: Can augmented reality microscopy with image analysis improve scoring?
Authors: Satturwar Swati P. , Pantanowitz Joshua L. , Manko Christopher D. , Seigh Lindsey , Monaco Sara E. , Pantanowitz Liron
Published: May 2020

Background

The Ki‐67 index is important for grading neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) in cytology. However, different counting methods exist. Recently, augmented reality microscopy (ARM) has enabled real‐time image analysis using glass slides. The objective of the current study was to compare different traditional Ki‐67 scoring methods in cell block material with newer methods such as ARM.

Methods

Ki‐67 immunostained slides from 50 NETs of varying grades were retrieved (39 from the pancreas and 11 metastases). Methods with which to quantify the Ki‐67 index in up to 3 hot spots included: 1) “eyeball” estimation (EE); 2) printed image manual counting (PIMC); 3) ARM with live image analysis; and 4) image analysis using whole‐slide images (WSI) (field of view [FOV] and the entire slide).

Results

The Ki‐67 index obtained using the different methods varied. The pairwise kappa results varied from no agreement for image analysis using digital image analysis WSI (FOV) and histology to near‐perfect agreement for ARM and PIMC. Using surgical pathology as the gold standard, the EE method was found to have the highest concordance rate (84.2%), followed by WSI analysis of the entire slide (73.7%) and then both the ARM and PIMC methods (63.2% for both). The PIMC method was the most time‐consuming whereas image analysis using WSI (FOV) was the fastest method followed by ARM.

Conclusions

The Ki‐67 index for NETs in cell block material varied by the method used for scoring, which may affect grade. PIMC was the most time‐consuming method, and EE had the highest concordance rate. Although real‐time automated counting using image analysis demonstrated inaccuracies, ARM streamlined and hastened the task of Ki‐67 quantification in NETs.
Implementation and evaluation of smart contracts using a hybrid on‐ and off‐blockchain architecture
Authors: Solaiman Ellis , Wike Todd , Sfyrakis Ioannis
Published: May 2020

Smart contracts can be implemented using either centralized or decentralized (blockchain) platforms. However, for a large class of applications, neither of these two alternatives on its own can provide adequate scalability, performance, quality of service, security, and trust requirements. We argue that for many applications, hybrid solutions that combine both on and off‐blockchain components are more adequate. In this article, we introduce the design and implementation of a novel hybrid smart contract architecture built using the Ethereum blockchain connected to a centralized smart contract management system developed by us. We then compare and evaluate the implementation of an asset tracking service using three different architectures: on‐chain, off‐chain, and hybrid. We demonstrate that using a hybrid architecture, we can substantially improve performance of applications while retaining security and trust for critical tasks.
Ultrafast Dynamics of the Transoid‐cis Isomer Formed in Photochromic Reaction from 3H‐Naphthopyran
Authors: Brazevic Sabina , Baranowski Mikołaj , Sikorski Marek , Rode Michał F. , Burdziński Gotard
Published: May 2020

Recent efforts in designing new 3H‐naphthopyran derivatives have been focused on efficient coloration process with a short fading time of the colored transoid‐cis TC isomer. It is desirable to avoid photoisomerization of TC leading to transoid‐trans TT isomers in the photoreaction. Long lifetime of TT can hamper fast applications such as dynamic holographic materials and molecular actuators, the residual color is one of the serious issues for photochromic lenses. Herein we characterize the photophysical and photochemical channels of TC excited state deactivation competing with the unwanted TC→TT isomerization process. Transient absorption spectroscopy reveals a very short lifetime of the singlet excited TC (≈0.8 ps) and its deactivation channels as S1→S0 internal conversion (major), intersystem crossing S1→T1, pyran ring formation, photoenolization and TC→TT isomerization. Computations support the S1→S0 and T1→S0 channels as responsible for photostabilization of the TC form.
Ensure accessibility during quick move to online instruction
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: May 2020

March 2020 brought a sudden transition to online education for colleges and universities across the country. “When there's change, there's anxiety and panic,” said Tom Thibodeau, Assistant Provost at the New England Institute of Technology and co‐author of UDL in the Cloud! How to Design and Deliver Online Education Using Universal Design for Learning.
Pika burrow and zokor mound density and their relationship with grazing management and sheep production in alpine meadow
Authors: Wang Yingxin , Zhang Xinglu , Sun Yi , Chang Shenghua , Wang Zhaofeng , Li Guang , Hou Fujiang
Published: May 2020

Plateau pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) and plateau zokors (Myospalax baileyi) occur naturally in the alpine meadow of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP). Their feeding and burrowing activities affect plant composition and soil properties (e.g., soil carbon accumulation and soil nitrogen cycling), but research to study the complex interactions between small mammals, livestock, and habitat is currently lacking. We conducted a sheep grazing trial to determine the effect of grazing management on pika burrow and zokor mound density, and the relationships between sheep production and pika burrow and zokor mound density. The grazing management approaches were warm‐season rotational grazing at 24 and 48 sheep months (SM)/ha, cold‐season rotational grazing at 24 and 48 SM/ha, seasonal continuous grazing at 24 SM/ha, and whole‐year continuous grazing at 48 SM/ha. The results of this study suggested that warm‐season rotational grazing at low stocking rate did not significantly change both pika and zokor densities. Cold‐season rotational grazing at both high and low stocking rates and seasonal continuous grazing at low stocking rate led to an increase in zokor mound density, but not pika burrow density. Whole‐year continuous grazing at high stocking rate increased both pika and zokor densities. The influence of pika and zokor activities on sheep production was complex and differed between grazing management. Sheep liveweight gain peaked at moderate pika burrow and zokor mound density at low stocking rate under both warm‐ and cold‐season rotational grazing. The threshold values of pika density were about 110 and 70 burrows per hectare in warm and cold seasons, respectively. The threshold value of zokor density was about 400 mounds per hectare in the cold season. In contrast, under high stocking rate regardless of management approach, sheep liveweight gain declined significantly as both pika burrow and zokor mound density increased. This paper provides a theoretical understanding and experimental evidence for sustainable grazing management and restoration of degraded grassland by local herders and policymakers.
Impacts of right ventricular function and venous congestion on renal response during depletion in acute heart failure
Authors: Bouabdallaoui Nadia , Beaubien‐Souligny William , Denault André Y. , Rouleau Jean L.
Published: May 2020

Aims

Venous congestion is a major determinant of worsening renal function (WRF) in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF), particularly when associated with right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. Whether the individual impacts of hemodynamic variables on renal outcomes in ADHF is modified according to RV function remains unclear. We aimed to determine the association between hemodynamic parameters and early changes in renal function during depletive therapy and explore the association of these changes with clinical outcomes.

Methods and results

WRF was defined as any increase in creatinine after 24 h of depletive therapy and improvement in renal function (IRF) as any decrease. Assessments were prospectively obtained on admission, 24 h later and at discharge. Out of the 105 patients enrolled, 45% had IRF, and 41% had poor RV. At baseline, patients evolving towards IRF had a lower mean arterial pressure (84.7 ± 13.9 vs. 90.9 ± 15.2 mmHg), a lower renal perfusion pressure (69.4 ± 16.2 vs. 75.4 ± 15.1 mmHg), and a poorer RV function (tricuspid annular plan systolic excursion 16.5 ± 6.0 vs. 18.8 ± 5.6 mm) in comparison with those with WRF (all P < 0.05). In a multivariate linear regression model, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion was the dominant parameter correlated with early changes in creatinine when RV was poor (β = 0.337), whereas mean arterial pressure (β = −0.334) and cardiac output (β = −0.298) were the only parameters correlated with renal function in patients with preserved RV function (all P < 0.05). RV dysfunction, but not early changes in renal function, was associated with post‐discharge clinical events.

Conclusions

RV dysfunction is a predictor of an early but transient progression to IRF during depletive therapy. RV dysfunction modifies the individual impact of various hemodynamic variables on the early trajectory of renal function in ADHF.
Anthropogenically forced change in aquatic ecosystems: Reflections on the use of monitoring, archival and palaeolimnological data to inform conservation
Authors: Roberts Lucy R. , Bishop Isabel J. , Adams Jennifer K.
Published: May 2020

The open collection “Aquatic transitions: Tracking the nature and trajectories of anthropogenically forced change in freshwater and coastal ecosystems” stems from a session of the same name at the ASLO (Association for the Sciences of Limnology and Oceanography) Aquatic Sciences Meeting 2017 in Honolulu, Hawai'i. The five papers gathered here reflect the focus of the special session on long‐term ecosystem research and monitoring (LTERM), and collectively make use of monitoring data, palaeolimnology, and historical and documentary records to explore the timing, extent, and causes of human‐related impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Collectively, they demonstrate that because timescales of ecological change often extend beyond contemporary monitoring, LTERM plays a crucial role in supporting evidence‐based conservation. In this introduction, we reflect on the role that LTERM has had in each of the ecosystems studied, and discuss the opportunities for LTERM work to inform future conservation.
The 5‐HTTLPR long allele predicts two‐year longitudinal increases in cortisol and declines in verbal memory in older adults
Authors: Hirst Rayna B. , Jordan Joshua T. , Schüssler‐Fiorenza Rose Sophia Miryam , Schneider Logan , Kawai Makoto , Gould Christine E. , Anker Lauren , Chick Christina F. , Beaudreau Sherry A. , Hallmayer Joachim , O'Hara Ruth
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The short form or s‐allele variant of the serotonin transporter polymorphism (5‐HTTLPR), as compared with the long‐form or l‐allele variant, has been associated with the presence of cognitive dysfunction, and particularly memory impairment in older adults. This body of cross‐sectional work has culminated in the hypothesis that presence of the s‐allele predicts greater memory decline in older adults. Yet, to date, there are no longitudinal studies that have investigated this issue.

Methods/Design

Here, we examine 109 community‐dwelling older adults (mean and SD of age = 70.7 ± 8.7 years) who underwent blood draw for genotyping, cognitive, and psychological testing at baseline, 12‐, and 24‐monthfollow‐ups.

Results

Multilevel modeling found that s‐allele carriers (ss or ls) performed worse than ll homozygotes at baseline on delayed verbal recall. Yet, s‐allele carriers' memory performance was stable over the two‐yearfollow‐up period, while l‐allele homozygotes experienced significant memory decline. l‐allele homozygote status was associated with both increased cortisol and decreased memory over time, resulting in attenuated verbal memory performance differences compared to s‐allele carriers with age.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings do not support the hypothesis that presence of the 5‐HTTLPRs‐allele is a marker for memory decline in older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:‐, 2020.
Rainstorm‐generated sediment yield model based on soil moisture proxies (SMP)
Authors: Gupta Sushindra Kumar , Singh Pushpendra K. , Tyagi Jaivir , Sharma Gunwant , Jethoo Ajay Singh
Published: May 2020

This study develops improved Soil Moisture Proxies (SMP) based suspended sediment yield (SMPSY) models corresponding to three antecedent moisture conditions (AMCs) (i.e., AMC‐I‐AMC‐III) by coupling the improved initial abstraction (Ia‐λ) model, the SMA procedure and the SMP concept for modelling the rainfall generated suspended sediment yield. The SMPSY models specifically incorporate a watershed storage index (S) model to accentuate the transformation from storm to storm and to avoid the sudden jumps in sediment yield computation. The workability of the SMPSY models is tested using a large dataset of rainfall and sediment yield (98 storm events) from twelve small watersheds and a comparison has been made with the existing MSY model. The goodness‐of‐fit (GOF) statistics is evaluated in terms of the Nash Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and error indices, i.e., root mean square error (RMSE), normalized root mean square error (nRMSE), standard error (SE), mean absolute error (MAE), and RMSE‐observations standard deviation ratio (RSR). The NSE values vary from 74.31% to 96.57% and from 75.21% to 91.78%, respectively for the SPMSY and MSY model. The NSE statistics indicate that the SMPSY model has lower uncertainty in simulating sediment yield as compared to the MSY model. The error indices are lower for the SMPSY model than the MSY model for most of the watersheds. These results show that the SMPSY model has less uncertainty and performs better than the MSY model. A sensitivity analysis of the SMPSY model shows that the parameter β is most sensitive followed by parameter S, α and A. Overall, the results show that the characterization of soil moisture variability in terms of SMPs and incorporation of improved delivery ratio and runoff coefficient relationship improves the simulation of the erosion and sediment yield generation process.
Maternal health and non‐communicable disease prevention: An investment case for the post COVID‐19 world and need for better health economic data
Authors: Kapur Anil , Hod Moshe
Published: May 2020

An integrated approach to population health, disease surveillance, and preventive care will dominate the health agenda in the post COVID‐19 world. Because of their huge burden and the vulnerability imposed during a health crisis, prevention and care of non‐communicable diseases (NCDs) will need to be prioritized even further. Maternal and child health are inextricably linked with NCDs and their risk factors. The intergenerational impact of poor maternal nutrition and health conditions during pregnancy, particularly NCD‐related pregnancy complications, can be considered as a multiplier of the ongoing pandemic of NCDs. The economic cost of poor maternal health and NCD‐related pregnancy complications is likely very high, but is not adequately researched or documented in the context of long‐term population health. Interventions to address NCDs in pregnancy have beneficial effects on short‐term pregnancy outcomes; but even more importantly, identifying “at‐risk” mothers and offspring opens up the opportunity for targeted early preventive action. Preventive actions to address obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases have a common lifestyle approach—identifying any one of these problems in pregnancy provides an opportunity to address them all. Cost–benefit analyses that only focus on the short‐term and on one condition do not capture the full value of downstream, long‐term benefits for population health. This requires urgent attention from FIGO.
Longitudinal invariance and information of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales
Authors: Anghel Ella
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The study investigates the psychometric properties of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales (DASS‐21).

Method

The DASS‐21 was administered to a community sample twice over the course of 7 months ( = 235 and  = 171; 51% female, Mage = 22 years). A partial credit Rasch model was used to determine the scales' longitudinal invariance and reliability.

Results

The DASS‐21 mostly demonstrated longitudinal invariance across administrations. The Depression and Anxiety subscales were sufficiently reliable to distinguish among the suggested severity categories, but the Stress scale was not.

Conclusion

Several revisions of the DASS are recommended. It is also suggested that the Stress scale should be used with caution, given its low reliability.
Epigenetic modifier trichostatin A enhanced osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells by inhibiting NF‐κB (p65) DNA binding and promoted periodontal repair in rats
Authors: Li Qiong , Liu Fan , Dang Rui , Feng Chunyue , Xiao Rui , Hua Ye , Wang Wei , Jia Zhi , Liu Dayong
Published: May 2020

We wished to evaluate whether epigenetic modifiers have a beneficial effect on treating experimental periodontitis and mechanisms for regulating the cell fate of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in inflammatory microenvironments. We isolated MSCs from healthy and inflamed gingival tissues to investigate whether trichostatin A (TSA) could improve osteogenic differentiation and resolve inflammation in vitro. The tissue regenerative potentials were evaluated when treated with a temperature‐dependent, chitosan‐scaffold‐encapsulated TSA, in a rat model of periodontitis. After induction with the conditioned medium, TSA treatment increased the osteogenic differentiation potential of inflamed MSCs and healthy MSCs. In addition, interleukin‐6 and interleukin‐8 levels in supernatants were significantly decreased after TSA treatment. Moreover, TSA promoted osteogenic differentiation by inhibiting nuclear factor‐κB (p65) DNA binding in MSCs. In rats with experimental periodontitis, 7 weeks after local injections of chitosan‐scaffold‐encapsulated TSA, histology and microcomputed tomography showed a significant increase in alveolar bone volume and less inflammatory infiltration compared with vehicle‐treated rats. The concentrations of interferon‐γ and interleukin‐6 were significantly decreased in the gingival crevicular fluid after TSA treatment. This study demonstrated that TSA had anti‐inflammatory properties and could promote periodontal tissue repair, which indicated that epigenetic modifiers hold promise as a potential therapeutic option for periodontal tissue repair.
Quantitative single-molecule imaging of TNFR1 reveals zafirlukast as antagonist of TNFR1 clustering and TNFα-induced NF-ĸB signaling
Authors: Weinelt Nadine , Karathanasis Christos , Smith Sonja , Medler Juliane , Malkusch Sebastian , Fulda Simone , Wajant Harald , Heilemann Mike , van Wijk Sjoerd J L
Published: May 2020

TNFR1 is a crucial regulator of NF-ĸB-mediated proinflammatory cell survival responses and programmed cell death (PCD). Deregulation of TNFα- and TNFR1-controlled NF-ĸB signaling underlies major diseases, like cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, although being routinely used, antagonists of TNFα might also affect TNFR2-mediated processes, so that alternative approaches to directly antagonize TNFR1 are beneficial. Here, we apply quantitative single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) of TNFR1 in physiologic cellular settings to validate and characterize TNFR1 inhibitory substances, exemplified by the recently described TNFR1 antagonist zafirlukast. Treatment of TNFR1-mEos2 reconstituted TNFR1/2 knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) with zafirlukast inhibited both ligand-independent preligand assembly domain (PLAD)-mediated TNFR1 dimerization as well as TNFα-induced TNFR1 oligomerization. In addition, zafirlukast-mediated inhibition of TNFR1 clustering was accompanied by deregulation of acute and prolonged NF-ĸB signaling in reconstituted TNFR1-mEos2 MEFs and human cervical carcinoma cells. These findings reveal the necessity of PLAD-mediated, ligand-independent TNFR1 dimerization for NF-ĸB activation, highlight the PLAD as central regulator of TNFα-induced TNFR1 oligomerization, and demonstrate that TNFR1-mEos2 MEFs can be used to investigate TNFR1-antagonizing compounds employing single-molecule quantification and functional NF-ĸB assays at physiologic conditions.
Preprocessing for characteristic mode tracking based on the correlation
Authors: Li Weiwen , Liu Yongcong , Yang Guang , Huang Changbin , Liu Qing‐Huo
Published: May 2020

Mode swapping in characteristic mode analysis (CMA) affects consistent interpretation of the modal data. Mode tracking based on the eigenvector correlation can effectively determine the correct ordering of modes at each sampling frequency. However, there has been a lack of corresponding preprocessing for this mode‐tracking algorithm. For example, the applicable frequency band cannot be determined in advance. In this paper, cosine similarity is used to calculate the correlation between modes of adjacent frequencies. It is then proposed that the 3/2 proportional relationship between the maximum size of the structure and the minimum operating wavelength can be used to choose the reliable operating band range of the algorithm. Meanwhile, it is recommended that the meshing side length should be less than one‐tenth of a wavelength, and the adjacent sampling frequency interval should be less than the relative bandwidth of 10%. Through this preprocessing, correlation‐based algorithms can efficiently implement mode tracking for open conductors.
Pharmacological sex hormone manipulation as a risk model for depression
Authors: Frokjaer Vibe G.
Published: May 2020

Sex hormone transition may trigger severe depressive episodes in some women. In order to map mechanisms related to such phenomena we developed a pharmacological preclinical human model using sex hormone manipulation with gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) in a placebo‐controlled design. Here the findings from this model is synthesized and discussed in the context of related literature on hormonal contributions to reproductive mental health disorders. The GnRha model work points to an estradiol‐dependent depressive response in healthy women undergoing short‐term sex hormone manipulation with GnRHa, which is linked to serotonin transporter changes (a key regulator of synaptic serotonin), a disengagement of hippocampus, and overengagement of brain networks recruited when processing emotional salient information. Further, the GnRHa model suggest that key brain regions in the reward circuit are less engaged in positive stimuli when undergoing sex hormone manipulation, which may underlie anhedonia. Also, the work supports that enhanced sensitivity to estrogen signaling at the level of gene expression may drive increased risk for depressive symptoms when exposed to sex steroid hormone fluctuations. In conclusion, the GnRHa model work highlights the brain signatures of rapid and profound changes in sex steroid hormone milieu, which reflect plausible mechanisms by which risk for mood disorders works. This model points to the role of estrogen dynamics and sensitivity, and offers a rationale for personalized prevention in hormonal transition phases, for example pregnancy to postpartum transition, perimenopause, and hormone treatments, which now can move into clinical translation and ideally pave the way for protecting mental and cognitive health.
Lower functioning patients demonstrate atypical hip joint loading before and following total hip arthroplasty for osteoarthritis
Authors: Bahl Jasvir S. , Arnold John B. , Taylor Mark , Solomon Lucian B. , Thewlis Dominic
Published: May 2020

Previous studies have established that up to 1 year post total hip arthroplasty (THA), patients do not recover normal function and the magnitude of hip joint loading remains reduced compared to healthy individuals. However, the temporal nature of the loading profile has not been considered to identify individuals who are at a greater risk of poor functional outcomes following THA. This study aimed to determine changes to the profile and magnitude of the resultant hip joint reaction force before and up to 6 months post‐primary THA, and factors associated with atypical loading profiles. Hip joint loading was computed using a personalized lower‐limb musculoskeletal model in 43 participants awaiting primary THA for osteoarthritis (mean age: SD = 65, 14 years; body mass index: SD = 30, 5 kg/m2) before and up to 6 months after THA. Atypical, single‐peak loading profiles were observed for 11 patients before surgery, where four showed a single peak at 6 months. Patients displaying a single‐peak profile walked slower (mean difference: −0.4 m/s) compared to individuals displaying double‐peak profile (P = <.001) and had significantly reduced sagittal plane hip range of motion during gait (mean difference −9.6°, P = <.001). Self‐reported pain, function, and stiffness did not differentiate between patients with a single or double‐peak loading profile. Individuals with a single‐peak force profile did not meet the minimal clinically important hip range of motion during gait and would be classified as low‐functioning THA patients. Clinical Relevance: The temporal nature of the force profile may help to identify individuals who are at the greatest risk of poor functional outcomes after THA.
Proximal‐distal shift of the center of rotation in a total wrist arthroplasty is more than twice of the healthy wrist
Authors: Akhbari Bardiya , Morton Amy M. , Shah Kalpit N. , Molino Janine , Moore Douglas C. , Weiss Arnold‐Peter C. , Wolfe Scott W. , Crisco Joseph J.
Published: May 2020

Reproduction of healthy wrist biomechanics should minimize the abnormal joint forces that could potentially result in the failure of a total wrist arthroplasty (TWA). To date, the in vivo kinematics of TWA have not been measured and it is unknown if TWA preserves healthy wrist kinematics. Therefore, the purpose of this in vivo study was to determine the center of rotation (COR) for a current TWA design and to compare its location to the healthy wrist. The wrist COR for six patients with TWA and 10 healthy subjects were calculated using biplane videoradiography as the subjects performed various range‐of‐motion and functional tasks that included coupled wrist motions. An open‐source registration software, Autoscoper, was used for model‐based tracking and kinematics analysis. It was demonstrated that the COR was located near the centers of curvatures of the carpal component for the anatomical motions of flexion‐extension and radial‐ulnar deviation. When compared to healthy wrists, the COR of TWAs was located more distal in both pure radial deviation (P < .0001) and pure ulnar deviation (P = .07), while there was no difference in its location in pure flexion or extension (P = .99). Across all coupled motions, the TWA's COR shifted more than two times that of the healthy wrists in the proximal‐distal direction (17.1 vs 7.2 mm). We postulate that the mismatch in the COR location and behavior may be associated with increased loading of the TWA components, leading to an increase in the risk of component and/or interface failure.
Effect of nonionic surfactant Brij 35 on morphology, cloud point, and pigment stability in Monascus extractive fermentation
Authors: Yang Xuelian , Xiang Longbei , Dong Ye , Cao Yanping , Wang Chengtao
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Nonionic surfactant Brij 35 in submerged fermentation of Monascus can significantly increase Monascus pigment yield. Here, the effects of nonionic surfactant Brij 35 on Monascus pigment secretion in extractive fermentation are discussed in terms of cell morphology, cloud point change, and pigment stability.

RESULTS

At Brij 35 concentrations up to 32 g L−1, the higher concentrations led to the loosening of the network structure on the surface of the fungal wall, enhanced cell wall permeability, and increased abundance of lipid droplets. Alternatively, when the concentration of Brij 35 exceeded 32 g L−1, a large amount of substances accumulated on the surface of the fungal wall, permeability reduced, and the degree of oil droplet dispersion in cells decreased. Further, during extractive fermentation, Brij 35 induced formation of a grid structure on the fungal wall surface beginning on day 2, increased the number of intracellular lipid droplets, and promoted intracellular pigment secretion into the extracellular environment. When the cloud point temperature in the fermentation system approached that of fermentation, the nonionic surfactant exhibited stronger Monascus pigment extraction capacity, thereby enhancing pigment yield. Hence, Brij 35 can improve pigment stability and effectively reduce damage caused by natural factors, such as light and temperature.

CONCLUSION

Brij 35 promotes the secretion of pigment by changing the fungal wall structure and cloud point, as well as by improving pigment stability. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Dissipation behavior, residue distribution and dietary risk assessment of cyromazine, acetamiprid and their mixture in cowpea and cowpea field soil
Authors: Fu Duhan , Zhang Shanying , Wang Meng , Liang Xiaoyu , Xie Yanli , Zhang Yu , Zhang Chenghui
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Cyromazine and acetamiprid are widely applied as pesticides in agriculture, causing increasing concerns about their residues in crops. In this study, cyromazine, acetamiprid and their mixture were applied to cowpea to investigate their degradation dynamics and perform a dietary risk assessment.

RESULTS

The dissipation behavior of cyromazine and acetamiprid in the single‐ and mixed‐pesticide groups followed first‐order kinetics, with a linear correlation coefficient of 0.910 to 0.987. The half‐lives of cyromazine and acetamiprid were 1.56–11.18 days in the four different matrices. The half‐life of cyromazine in the mixed‐pesticide group was similar to or even shorter than that in the single‐pesticide group. The highest levels of cyromazine and acetamiprid in cowpea occurred with a preharvest interval of 7 days and after two or three applications. These levels are below the maximum residue limits recommended by the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture for cyromazine and acetamiprid in cowpea. The risk quotient of cyromazine and acetamiprid ranged from 0.0018 to 0.0418, and the national estimated short‐term intake values of the cyromazine and acetamiprid were far below the acute reference dose as recommended by the European Food Safety Authority.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the use of cyromazine and acetamiprid and a cyromazine–acetamiprid mixture in cowpea is safe under the Good Agricultural Practices for Chinese fields, and the use of a cyromazine–acetamiprid mixture affords even better results than the application of cyromazine alone. Moreover, the residue dynamics information will support the label claims for the application of cyromazine, acetamiprid and a cyromazine–acetamiprid mixture to cowpea fruit. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Cognitive Processing Therapy for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder via Telehealth: Practical Considerations During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Moring John C. , Dondanville Katherine A. , Fina Brooke A. , Hassija Christina , Chard Kathleen , Monson Candice , LoSavio Stefanie T. , Wells Stephanie Y. , Morland Leslie A. , Kaysen Debra , Galovski Tara E. , Resick Patricia A.
Published: May 2020

The global outbreak of COVID‐19 has required mental health providers to rapidly rethink and adapt how they provide care. Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a trauma‐focused, evidence‐based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder that is effective when delivered in‐person or via telehealth. Given current limitations on the provision of in‐person mental health treatment during the COVID‐19 pandemic, this article presents guidelines and treatment considerations when implementing CPT via telehealth. Based on lessons learned from prior studies and clinical delivery of CPT via telehealth, recommendations are made with regard to overall strategies for adapting CPT to a telehealth format, including how to conduct routine assessments and ensure treatment fidelity.
Presbylarynx: Does Body Muscle Mass Correlate With Vocal Atrophy? A Prospective Case Control Study
Authors: Santos Mariline , Freitas Susana V. , Dias David , Costa Joana , Coutinho Miguel , Sousa Cecília A. , da Silva Álvaro M.
Published: May 2020

Objective

To analyze the potential association between body muscle mass and presbylarynx.

Methods

Study performed on subjects referred to the otorhinolaryngology department in a tertiary center between January and September 2019 . Based on endoscopic findings of the larynx, the patients were subdivided into two main groups: presbylarynx versus no presbylarynx. Data regarding gender, body composition, self‐assessment of vocal complaints, and functional assessment were collected.

Study Design

Case control, prospective, observational and cross‐sectional.

Results

The study population included a total of 115 Caucasian subjects (43 males; 72 females). Presbylarynx was identified in 43 patients (37, 39%) with no statistically predilection by gender (P = .668). The mean age of the patients with presbylarynx was slightly higher, but differences between groups were not statistically significant (P = .072). Results showed an association between functional impairment (score 4 of Katz Index and score 5 of Functional Ambulation Classification) and presence of presbylarynx (P < .001). Additionally, a positive association between the absence of presbylarynx and sport activity was also observed (P < .001). The mean value of muscle mass between presbylarynx and no presbylarynx groups was statistically different (P < .01), with a lower mean for subjects with presbylarynx.

Conclusion

This case control prospective study confirms that the general age‐related degeneration of body muscle mass might play an important role in the course of presbylarynx. In the future, preventing strategies based on regular sport activities and improvements on functional status can play an important role in the management of aging voice.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 131:E226–E230, 2021
Naphthalimide‐Based Aggregation‐Induced Emissive Polymeric Hydrogels for Fluorescent Pattern Switch and Biomimetic Actuators
Authors: Liu Hao , Wei Shuxin , Qiu Huiyu , Zhan Beibei , Liu Qingquan , Lu Wei , Zhang Jiawei , Ngai To , Chen Tao
Published: May 2020

Substituted naphthalimide (NI) moieties are highly versatile and newly recognized aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) building blocks for many potentially useful smart molecules, polymers, and nanoparticles. However, the introduction of NI fluorophore into cross‐linked polymeric networks to prepare AIE‐active hydrogels still remains underdeveloped. Herein, a novel naphthalimide‐based aggregation‐induced emissive polymeric hydrogel is reported, followed by its proof‐of‐concept applications as fluorescence pattern switch and biomimetic actuator. The hydrogel, bearing semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks, is synthesized starting from N‐isopropylacrylamide, hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and a newly designed NI monomer (4‐phenoxy‐N‐allyl‐1,8‐naphthalimide, PhAN). Rational molecular design for AIE‐active PhAN monomer lies in modification of the NI core with rigid and bulky phenoxy group to break its planarity to produce desirable propeller‐shaped molecular conformation. The as‐prepared hydrogel is proved to be a aggregation‐induced blue‐light‐emitting hydrogel. It also shows volume phase transition behavior and is endowed with thermally responsive synergistic emission and transmittance change, thus enabling simultaneous regulation of two optical properties merely by one single stimulus. These useful advantages further encourage fabrication of several proto‐type fluorescence pattern switching and biomimetic actuating devices. This study may not only enlarge the list of fluorescent hydrogels but also serve as a novel smart optical platform for potential anticounterfeiting, sensing, displaying, or actuating applications.
Analysis according to the change in structure of ultrasonic sensors and the change in pressure inside the tank for measurement of fuel amounts in compressed natural gas (CNG) tank
Authors: Kim Namwook , Choi Dooseuk
Published: May 2020

The present study is a fundamental research for precise measurement of fuel amounts in a compressed natural gas (CNG) tank where an analysis of receiving sensitivity was conducted as a result of changes in the contact surface shape in the number of piezoelectric element of the ultrasonic sensor as well as in the internal pressure of the tank. Experiments were conducted as a function of changes in the contact surface shape between the ultrasonic sensor and outside of the aluminum tank and in the number of piezoelectric element as well as in the internal pressure of the tank. According to the experimental results, it could be confirmed that the maximum receiving sensitivity value was increased by about 60 % when the contact surface shape of the transmission and receiving ultrasonic sensors compared with the ultrasonic sensor in the Line‐Line shape selected as the reference model was changed to the surface. As a whole, the highest receiving sensitivity values were observed when the transmission sensor of surface shape produced as multiple piezoelectric elements and the receiving sensor of surface shape produced as a single piezoelectric element were used. It could be confirmed that receiving sensitivities were improved at the same voltage value as a result of changes in the contact surface shape of the ultrasonic sensor and in the number of piezoelectric elements.
Theoretical research of co‐extrusion process of aluminum AA3003/AA7072 clad alloys
Authors: Kim K.J.
Published: May 2020

The vaporizer tube base material and the clad material were simultaneously extruded to produce a tube having a smooth surface and a clad layer having excellent coupling characteristics. The process of controlling the thickness of the clad layer by simultaneously extruding two metals with different mechanical properties requires a high degree of precision compared to a single metal extrusion process and requires careful consideration for setting appropriate manufacturing parameters. In setting these variables, the trial and error approach by repeated extrusion results in excessive research cost and time consuming. Therefore, in this study, computer simulation was carried out to investigate the relationship between shape and process parameters of extruded materials. The process parameters applied to this simulation are the friction coefficient between the two materials and the angle of the die, and the thickness variation and uniformity of the clad material after extrusion were investigated. From the simulation results, as the friction coefficient of the matrix and the clad material increases, the clad layer thickness of the extruded material becomes close to the theoretical value and exhibits a uniform value.
Crashworthiness optimization of honeycomb structures under out‐of‐plane impact using radial basis functions
Authors: Rodrigues M.T. , Luersen M.A.
Published: May 2020

Crashworthiness design and development of lightweight structures have become important engineering challenges because of the high standards of energy consumption and safety regulations. Within this context, the use of honeycomb structures as crush absorber is continuously growing in automotive and aircraft industries, once honeycombs are known for their high strength‐to‐weight ratio and excellent energy absorbing capacity. Thus, this paper presents a method that combines radial basis functions with expected improvement to optimize the specific energy absorption of honeycomb cellular materials, while the peak crush force is constrained at low levels for safety reasons. Honeycomb's cell size, cell shape and thickness are the design variables. Concerning the cell shape, the results indicate the hexagonal configuration has a higher out‐of‐plane performance compared to auxetic and rectangular cells in terms of energy absorption capacity. Lastly, a multi‐objective optimization using only the radial basis function predictor (without sequential sampling) is carried out to seek simultaneously for optimal solutions with minimum peak force and maximum specific energy absorption.