bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of potential neuropharmacological activity of neostigmine‐glycopyrrolate for intraoperative neural monitoring in thyroid surgery
Authors: Oh Moon Young , Lee Jung‐Man , Won Dongwook , Huang Tzu‐Yen , Wu Che‐Wei , Dionigi Gianlorenzo , Kim Hoon Yub , Seo Miyeon , Choi Hyun Suk , Chai Young Jun
Published: September 2021

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) is frequently used in thyroid surgery to reduce recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. The use of neuromuscular blockade agent to facilitate tracheal intubation, is a common cause of IONM failure. We performed a retrospective analysis to assess the efficacy of neostigmine‐glycopyrrolate as a neuromuscular blockade reversal agent for IONM during thyroid surgery. Rocuronium (0.6 mg/kg) was administered for muscle relaxation. Neostigmine (2 mg) and glycopyrrolate (0.4 mg) were administered immediately after intubation. Cricothyroid muscle‐twitch response upon external branch of superior laryngeal nerve stimulation and electromyography amplitudes of vagal and recurrent laryngeal nerves before (V1, R1) and after thyroid resection (V2, R2) were recorded. Fifty patients (23 males, 27 females) were included in the analysis. The diagnoses comprised 43 papillary thyroid carcinomas and seven benign diseases. The mean time between rocuronium injection and neostigmine‐glycopyrrolate injection was 5.1 ± 1.2 min, and the mean time from neostigmine‐glycopyrrolate injection to successful cricothyroid muscle twitching upon external branch of superior laryngeal nerve stimulation was 21.0 ± 4.5 min. All patients had V1 and R1 amplitudes of more than 500 μV each, with mean V1 and R1 amplitudes of 985.3 ± 471.6 μV and 1177.2 ± 572.7 μV, respectively. Neostigmine‐glycopyrrolate was effectively used as a neuromuscular blockade reversal agent for IONM in thyroid surgeries without a significant increase in bucking events. Administration of neostigmine‐glycopyrrolate immediately after intubation can be recommended for successful NMB reversal to facilitate IONM during thyroid surgery.
Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator Implantation in an Ambulatory Surgery Center Versus Hospital
Authors: Morse Elliot , Han Catherine , Suurna Maria
Published: September 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HGNS) implantation is highly effective in treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in select patient populations that are intolerant of continuous positive airway pressure. Implantation surgery is traditionally performed in hospital outpatient departments (HOPD) due to concern about anesthetic effects and airway manipulation in an OSA population. In this study, we examined complications and efficiency of HGNS implantation in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) versus HOPD.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients with HGNS implantation performed between May 2015–January 2021 at our HOPD or ACS were included. Patient‐related characteristics, surgical times, and postoperative complications were obtained via chart review. Reimbursement data on a national level for Medicare patients were calculated based on publicly available data from the Center for Medicare Services. Patient characteristics, surgical times, and complications were summarized as medians with interquartile ranges (IQRs) and proportions in each surgical setting group as appropriate. These were compared between surgical setting groups via Wilcoxon rank‐sum testing and χ2 testing.

Results

A total of 122 patients were included. Patients in the HOPD group had significantly higher median apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) (42.0 [IQR 27.9–51.0]) compared to the ASC group (31.0 [IQR 21.0–44.2], P = .005). The intervals between in‐room and case start, case finish and out‐of‐room, and time in the postoperative area were significantly shorter in the ASC group compared to the HOPD group. Reimbursement on a national level was estimated at 18% lower for patients with surgery performed at the ASC. There was no significant difference in postoperative complications.

Conclusions

HGNS implantation in an ASC is safe and more efficient than in a HOPD, and may also be more cost‐effective.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:706–710, 2022
Post‐Tonsillectomy Ibuprofen: Is There a Dose‐Dependent Bleeding Risk?
Authors: Losorelli Steven D. , Scheffler Patrick , Qian Z. J. , Lin Hung‐Fu C. , Truong Mai Thy
Published: September 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Post‐tonsillectomy hemorrhage (PTH) is a potentially life‐threatening complication. A recent meta‐analysis suggests that ibuprofen may increase the risk of PTH. The aims of this study were to 1) re‐evaluate the effect of ibuprofen on PTH given additional recent evidence and 2) to evaluate a potential dose effect of ibuprofen.

Study Design

Meta‐analysis and meta‐regression; single‐institution retrospective review.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the literature and a meta‐analysis of 12 studies comparing postoperative ibuprofen analgesia to non‐nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) controls. Next, we performed a meta‐regression analysis to assess for an effect of dose, if any, on rates of PTH. Five studies specifying a dose of 5 mg/kg (828 patients, 1,411 controls) and 7 studies using 10 mg/kg (5,633 patients, 7,656 controls) were included. We then conducted a novel single‐institution, retrospective review of data for 1,046 patients prescribed intermediate‐dose 7.5 mg/kg ibuprofen.

Results

Ibuprofen was not associated with an increased rate of PTH (log odds ratio [OR], 0.21; 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.15, 0.57). Meta‐regression showed that ibuprofen dose (5 and 10 mg/kg) did not have a statistically significant effect on PTH (OR, 1.32; 95% CI 0.30, 5.84). Uncontrolled, aggregate rates of PTH across all studies were 2.29% (N = 828) for 5 mg/kg and 4.65% (N = 5,633) for 10 mg/kg dosing. The rate of secondary hemorrhage in patients prescribed 7.5 mg/kg ibuprofen was 3.10% (N = 1,046).

Conclusion

We found no statistically significant increased risk of PTH when ibuprofen is prescribed at the low or high range of commonly used clinical dosages, compared to a non‐ibuprofen regimen. Further studies with less heterogeneity are needed to determine if there is a clinically relevant dose‐dependent difference in PTH with ibuprofen.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:1473–1481, 2022
Assessment of karst rocky desertification from the local to regional scale based on unmanned aerial vehicle images: A case‐study of Shilin County, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Dai Guanghui , Sun Hu , Wang Bin , Huang Conghong , Wang Wenli , Yao Yang , Li Ninglv , Ou Xiaokun , Zhang Zhiming
Published: September 2021

Karst rocky desertification is a major ecologic and geologic problem in Southwest China that has restricted the sustainable development of society and the economy. Many methods have been used to evaluate rocky desertification based on satellite remote sensing, but the results of these methods are affected by the heterogeneous surroundings of the karst region and the low resolution of sensors. In this study, a new method that combines satellite images and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images was used to quantitatively extract information and evaluate rocky desertification. First, we extracted the bare rock ratio from the local high‐resolution UAV images, and then the regression models were established between the bare rock ratio of UAV images and the band reflectivity and eight rock indices of satellite images to invert the bare rock ratio at the county scale. The results showed that the overall accuracy and F1 of the classification of UAV images was 97% and 90%, respectively. The linear regression model between the reflectivity of the pixels in band 2 of the LANDSAT image and the bare rock ratio extracted from the UAV images was the best (R2 = 0.86). In addition, our method in which rocky desertification was assessed by the inversion model based on UAV images and LANDSAT images was superior to the traditional approach based on vegetation coverage. These results suggested that we can extract information on rocky desertification based on high‐resolution UAV images and assess rocky desertification by the inversion model from the local to regional scale.
Characteristics and clinical significance of polyploid giant cancer cells in laryngeal carcinoma
Authors: Liu Hui‐Ting , Xia Tian , You Yi‐Wen , Zhang Qi‐Cheng , Ni Hao‐sheng , Liu Yi‐Fei , Liu Yuan‐Ru , Xu Yu‐Qing , You Bo , Zhang Zhen‐Xin
Published: September 2021

Objectives

We aimed to construct an induction system for polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs), as well as to investigate PGCC features and clinical significance.

Methods

A laryngeal neoplasm‐PGCC induction system was constructed using paclitaxel liposomes (PTX). We used western blots to compare expression of epithelial‐mesenchymal transition‐related proteins, stem cell interrelated proteins, and cyclin‐associated proteins. We then measured PGCC count in tissue samples of patients with laryngeal neoplasms and analyzed its relationship with prognosis. Statistical significance was determined using t‐tests.

Results

PTX successfully induced PGCCs. Western blotting showed that CyclinB1, CDC25C, CDK1, E‐cadherin, and EIF‐4A expression decreased in PGCCs compared with normal cancer cells, whereas vimentin and CD133 expression increased. Number of PGCCs in laryngeal cancer tissues and overall survival time were inversely correlated (P < .05).

Conclusions

PTX successfully induces PGCC formation in laryngeal carcinoma, which may be the cause of poor prognosis in patients with laryngeal cancer.

Level of Evidence: 4.
Olfactory dysfunction in passive vs active smoking
Authors: Çengel Kurnaz Senem , Tahir Emel , Kavaz Esra
Published: September 2021

Background

The aim of this study is to assess the olfactory functions of passive smokers compared to active smokers and nonsmokers.

Methods

This prospective case‐control study included 30 nonsmokers, 30 passive smokers, and 30 active smoker participants. All groups were matched for gender and age. The Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test 22 (SNOT‐22) and Sniffin' Sticks test battery were administered to all subjects. Threshold (T), discrimination (D), and identification (I) scores were noted. Olfactory function was subjectively assessed as 0: severe dysfunction and 5: no problem.

Results

Overall, TDI scores of active smokers (24.78 ± 3.02) and passive smokers (24.90 ± 2.45) were significantly lower than nonsmokers (34.23 ± 3.46). There was no statistically significant difference between passive smokers and smokers (F(2,87) = 13.47, P < .001)). All subscores are negatively affected by active or passive smoking. The greatest impact of smoking was on threshold scores (η2T = 0.719), followed by identification (η2I = 0.353) and discrimination (η2D = 0.282) scores. SNOT‐22 and TDI scores were weakly (r = −.352) correlated as subjective assessment, and TDI scores were moderately correlated (r: .539) (P values < .001). Age and pack‐years cigarette dosage had a negative effect on the TDI score (TDI = 26.386 − (0.084 × age) − (0.072 × Pack.Year)) according to stepwise linear regression model (F = 10.187; P = .001).

Conclusions

Passive smoking has nearly the same adverse effect on olfactory function as active smoking. The threshold scores are the most negatively affected. The olfactory effect of cigarette smoke may not be directly related to nasal inflammation. Olfactory neuronal pathways should be investigated to elucidate the exact pathophysiology.

Level of Evidence

3b.
Decreasing pH impairs sexual reproduction in a Mediterranean coral transplanted at a CO2 vent
Authors: Marchini Chiara , Gizzi Francesca , Pondrelli Thomas , Moreddu Lisa , Marisaldi Luca , Montori Francesco , Lazzari Valentina , Airi Valentina , Caroselli Erik , Prada Fiorella , Falini Giuseppe , Dubinsky Zvy , Goffredo Stefano
Published: September 2021

Ocean acidification, due to the increase of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in the atmosphere and its absorption by the oceans, affects many aspects of marine calcifying organisms' biology, including reproduction. Most of the available studies on low pH effects on coral reproduction have been conducted on tropical species under controlled conditions, while little information is reported for either tropical or temperate species in the field. This study describes the influence of decreasing pH on sexual reproduction of the temperate non‐zooxanthellate colonial scleractinian Astroides calycularis, transplanted in four sites along a natural pH gradient at the underwater volcanic crater of Panarea Island (Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy). The average pH values of each site (range: pHTS 8.07–7.40) match different scenarios of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) for the end of the century. After 3 months under experimental conditions, the reproductive parameters of both oocytes and spermaries (abundance, gonadal index, and diameters) seem to be unaffected by low pH. However, a delay in spermary development in the pre‐fertilization period and a persistence of mature oocytes in the fertilization period were observed in the most acidic site. Furthermore, no embryos were found in colonies from the two most acidic sites, suggesting a delay or an interruption of the fertilization process due to acidified conditions. These findings suggest a negative effect of low pH on A. calycularis sexual reproduction. However, long‐term experiments, including the synergistic impact of pH and temperature, are needed to predict if this species will be able to adapt to climate change over the next century.
On‐Surface RAFT Polymerization using Oxygen to form Triblock Copolymer Brushes
Authors: Lee Ji Hoon , Seo Hyun Ji , Lee Seung Yeon , Cho Woo Kyung , Son Kyung‐sun
Published: September 2021

Surface‐initiated polymerization of various monomers (methacrylic acid, methacrylate, acrylate, acrylamide, and zwitterionic monomer) is conducted to form triblock copolymer brushes using oxygen‐initiated reversible addition−fragmentation chain‐transfer polymerization in the presence of air. An ellipsometry analysis, water contact angle analysis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy confirm the successful formation of polymer brushes with complex architectures on a silicon substrate.
One dimensional weighted Ricci curvature and displacement convexity of entropies
Authors: Sakurai Yohei
Published: September 2021

In the present paper, we prove that a lower bound on the 1‐weighted Ricci curvature is equivalent to a convexity of entropies on the Wasserstein space. Based on such characterization, we provide some interpolation inequalities such as the Prékopa–Leindler inequality, the Borel–Branscamp–Lieb inequality, and the Brunn–Minkowski inequality under the curvature bound.
An Inspection into Multifarious Ways to Synthesize Poly(Amino Acid)s
Authors: Zheng Botuo , Bai Tianwen , Tao Xinfeng , Ling Jun
Published: September 2021

Poly(α‐amino acid)s (PAAs) attract growing attention due to their essential role in the application as biomaterials. To synthesize PAAs with desired structures and properties, scientists have developed various synthetic techniques with respective advantages. Here, different approaches to preparing PAAs are inspected. Basic features and recent progresses of these methods are summarized, including polymerizations of amino acid N‐carboxyanhydrides (NCAs), amino acid N‐thiocarboxyanhydrides (NTAs), and N‐phenoxycarbonyl amino acids (NPCs), as well as other synthetic routes. NCA is the most classical monomer to prepare PAAs with high molecular weights (MWs). NTA polymerizations are promising alternative pathways to produce PAAs, which can tolerate nucleophiles including alcohols, mercaptans, carboxyl acids, and water. By various techniques including choosing appropriate solvents or using organic acids as promoters, NTAs polymerize to produce polypeptoids and polypeptides with narrow dispersities and designed MWs up to 55.0 and 57.0 kg mol−1, respectively. NPC polymerizations are phosgene‐free ways to synthesize polypeptides and polypeptoids. For the future prospects, detail investigations into polymerization mechanisms of NTA and NPC are expected. The synthesis of PAAs with designed topologies and assembly structures is another intriguing topic. The advantages and unsettled problems in various synthetic ways are discussed for readers to choose appropriate approaches for PAAs.
Mitogen‐activated protein kinase‐activated protein kinase‐2 (MK2) and its role in cell survival, inflammatory signaling, and migration in promoting cancer
Authors: Morgan Deri , Berggren Kiersten L. , Spiess Colby D. , Smith Hannah M. , Tejwani Ajay , Weir Scott J. , Lominska Christopher E. , Thomas Sufi M. , Gan Gregory N.
Published: September 2021

Cancer and the immune system share an intimate relationship. Chronic inflammation increases the risk of cancer occurrence and can also drive inflammatory mediators into the tumor microenvironment enhancing tumor growth and survival.

The p38 MAPK pathway is activated both acutely and chronically by stress, inflammatory chemokines, chronic inflammatory conditions, and cancer. These properties have led to extensive efforts to find effective drugs targeting p38, which have been unsuccessful. The immediate downstream serine/threonine kinase and substrate of p38 MAPK, mitogen‐activated‐protein‐kinase‐activated‐protein‐kinase‐2 (MK2) protects cells against stressors by regulating the DNA damage response, transcription, protein and messenger RNA stability, and motility. The phosphorylation of downstream substrates by MK2 increases inflammatory cytokine production, drives an immune response, and contributes to wound healing.

By binding directly to p38 MAPK, MK2 is responsible for the export of p38 MAPK from the nucleus which gives MK2 properties that make it unique among the large number of p38 MAPK substrates. Many of the substrates of both p38 MAPK and MK2 are separated between the cytosol and nucleus and interfering with MK2 and altering this intracellular translocation has implications for the actions of both p38 MAPK and MK2.

The inhibition of MK2 has shown promise in combination with both chemotherapy and radiotherapy as a method for controlling cancer growth and metastasis in a variety of cancers. Whereas the current data are encouraging the field requires the development of selective and well tolerated drugs to target MK2 and a better understanding of its effects for effective clinical use.
Detection of rapidly accumulating stress‐induced SUMO in prostate cancer cells by a fluorescent SUMO biosensor
Authors: Yin Rui , Song Jiacheng , Esquela‐Kerscher Aurora , Kerscher Oliver
Published: September 2021

SUMO conjugates and SUMO chains form when SUMO, a small ubiquitin‐like modifier protein, is covalently linked to other cellular proteins or itself. During unperturbed growth, cells maintain balanced levels of SUMO conjugates. In contrast, eukaryotic cells that are exposed to proteotoxic and genotoxic insults mount a cytoprotective SUMO stress response (SSR). One hallmark of the SSR is a rapid and massive increase of SUMO conjugates in response to oxidative, thermal, and osmotic stress. Here, we use a recombinant fluorescent SUMO biosensor, KmUTAG‐fl, to investigate differences in the SSR in a normal human prostate epithelial cell line immortalized with SV40 (PNT2) and two human prostate cancer cell lines that differ in aggressiveness and response to androgen (LNCaP and PC3). In cells that grow unperturbed, SUMO is enriched in the nuclei of all three cell lines. However, upon 30 min of exposure to ultraviolet radiation or oxidative stress, we detected significant cytosolic enrichment of SUMO as measured by KmUTAG‐fl staining. This rapid enrichment in cytosolic SUMO levels was on average fivefold higher in the LNCaP and PC3 prostate cancer cell lines compared to normal immortalized PNT2 cells. Additionally, this enhanced enrichment of cytosolic SUMO was reversible as cells recovered from stress exposure. Our study validates the use of the fluorescent KmUTAG‐fl SUMO biosensor to detect differences of SUMO levels and localization between normal and cancer cells and provides new evidence that cancer cells may exhibit an enhanced SSR.
Evolutionary game analysis of low‐carbon effort decisions in the supply chain considering fairness concerns
Authors: Wang Dong‐dong , Wang Kangzhou
Published: September 2021

As global environmental problems are becoming more severe, how to efficiently reduce carbon emissions has become an urgent problem to be solved. Manufacturers and retailers can effectively reduce carbon emissions through low‐carbon efforts, and doing so is important for the sustainable development of low‐carbon supply chains. This paper develops a general framework that considers how bounded rationality and fairness concerns affect the manufacturer's and retailer's low‐carbon effort decisions and discusses the evolutionary stable strategy (ESS) and the evolution process of the manufacturer's and retailer's low‐carbon efforts. The ESS shows that the manufacturer and the retailer will increase their low‐carbon efforts when the initial unit profit is higher. Otherwise, a smaller initial unit profit will reduce their low‐carbon efforts. This paper also analyzes different attributes of fairness concerns and finds that advantageous fairness concerns increase low‐carbon efforts, whereas disadvantageous fairness concerns reduce low‐carbon efforts. In addition, fairness concerns will speed up the manufacturer's and retailer's low‐carbon efforts to ESSs. When the manufacturer and retailer choose the “no effort” strategy, they will stop investing quickly, but when they choose the “effort” strategy, they will not invest quickly. This paper can provide decision support for using the low‐carbon effort investment strategy by supply chain members.
Recentralization and self‐employment: A quasi‐natural experiment in Switzerland
Authors: Patel Pankaj C.
Published: September 2021

According to a classical Hayekian proposition, bottom‐up systems governed by local institutions are better at combining knowledge and allocating resources to promote entrepreneurship. Exploiting the staggered adoption of recentralization (or reversal of decentralization) from municipality to canton in 19 of the 26 Swiss cantons between 2000 and 2014, and using fixed‐effects estimates, we find that recentralization lowered self‐employment, but the effects were small. Demographic factors, psychological characteristics, income, and regional identity did not meaningfully affect the heterogeneity of this association. In strong institutional settings such as Switzerland, recentralization from lower to higher levels of sub‐national government systems seems to have limited effects on self‐employment.
SAMHSA assistant secretary kicks off NYAPRS conference with BH priorities
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2021

COVID‐19's impact on behavioral health, federal funding support for the field and information about the forthcoming 988 crisis system were among the key issues discussed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA's) new assistant secretary for mental health and substance use and keynote presenter during last week's virtual conference hosted by the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services (NYAPRS).
First national center in Georgia launches for trafficked youth
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2021

Helping youth as young as 12 who have experienced commercial sexual exploitation and trafficking and who are known to have high rates of trauma and physical violence by traffickers is the impetus behind the launch of the first national center in Georgia to address this population's mental health needs.
Higher order stochastically perturbed SIRS epidemic model with relapse and media impact
Authors: S. P. Rajasekar , M. Pitchaimani , Zhu Quanxin
Published: September 2021

Elaborate and intensive studies have been already made on nonlinear incidence, temporary immunity, and relapse. We propose that instead of nonlinear incidence the effective utilization of media propaganda about the communicable diseases, though could not be contained, may create an awareness and give an exposure among the public mass. Thus, scopes may exist to avoid and reduce communicable disease. This paper is intended to probe higher order stochastically perturbed stochastic SIRS model with relapse and media impact. The stochastic SIRS discloses sufficient conditions for the existence of the ergodic stationary distribution and sufficient conditions for the extinction of the infectious disease are deduced. The results of our model have got various implications in enumerable nonlinear infection forces with colored noise.
Al3+ solvation in solutions of aluminum nitrate in a protic ionic liquid: Nuclear magnetic resonance verification of the solvation shell composition
Authors: Matveev Vladimir V. , Ievlev Alexandr , Šoltésová Mária , Štěpánková Helena , Lähderanta Erkki , Varela Luis M.
Published: September 2021

The closest environment of Al3+ cations was analyzed in detail in solutions of aluminum nitrate in the prototypical protic ionic liquid ethyl ammonium nitrate (EAN) using 1H and 14N nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. For Al (NO3)3–EAN mixtures with different water content, a quantitative analysis of the integral intensities of the 1H and 14N signals was carried out and the composition of the first solvation shell of the aluminum cation was refined.
Characteristics of an Introduced Walleye Population with Implications for Suppression
Authors: Ryan Robert G. , Corsi Matthew P. , Rust Pete
Published: September 2021

The management of introduced fishes, including Walleye Sander vitreus, whether for control or enhancement, requires understanding of population dynamics at the invasion front. Walleye recently established in the Pend Oreille basin, Idaho, threaten the existing salmonid-based fish community and associated recreational fishery. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to describe population growth and associated life history characteristics. Walleye were sampled in October of 2011, 2014, and 2017 using a standardized gill netting survey protocol to describe trends in relative abundance and evaluate population dynamics. Relative abundance increased exponentially from 1.4 to 4.3 fish/net over the 6-year monitoring period. This population was characterized by fast somatic growth, robust body condition, and early age at maturity at or near the biological maxima for Walleye. Among the survey years, mean length at age 2 varied for female (359–441 mm) and male (358–426 mm) Walleye and relative weight varied from 91 to 98. The sampled Walleye matured at 1 to 4 years of age, and recruitment became more consistent as abundance increased. These density-dependent metrics suggest that the Walleye population is still at low density relative to carrying capacity. The information that was gained from this study was used to better understand potential risks and guide management decisions related to experimental population suppression that is now underway. Suppression under these conditions must overcome the recruitment capabilities of the population. We conclude that natural mortality is likely regulated by density-dependent processes. Therefore, at current (low) density, fishing mortality may be entirely additive and compensation is unlikely to further complicate management.
YouTubeTM as a source of information on bladder pain syndrome: A contemporary analysis
Authors: Morra Simone , Collà Ruvolo Claudia , Napolitano Luigi , La Rocca Roberto , Celentano Giuseppe , Califano Gianluigi , Creta Massimiliano , Capece Marco , Turco Carmine , Cilio Simone , Melchionna Alberto , Gerundo Gerardo , Trama Francesco , Mangiapia Francesco , Fusco Ferdinando , Mirone Vincenzo , Longo Nicola
Published: September 2021

Aim

To evaluate the quality of YouTube™ videos on bladder pain syndrome (BPS) and to investigate whether they can be used as a reliable source of information.

Methods

The search term “bladder pain syndrome” was used on YouTubeTM platform. The first 100 videos were selected. Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for audio‐visual content (PEMAT A/V), Global Quality Score (GQS), Misinformation tool, and DISCERN score were used to assess videos' quality content. Pearson's test was used to assess potential correlations between variables.

Results

Seventy‐nine videos were suitable for the analyses. The median PEMAT A/V Understandability score and PEMAT A/V Actionability score were 66.7% (interquartile range [IQR]: 46.2–100.0) and 75.0% (IQR: 37.5–100.0), respectively. According to GQS, 26 (32.9%), 32 (40.5%), 3 (3.8%), 15 (19.0%), and 3 (3.8%) videos were excellent, good, moderate, generally poor, and poor, respectively. According to Misinformation tool, of all videos, 81% (n = 64), 6.3% (n = 5), 5.1% (n = 4), 5.1% (n = 4), 2.5% (n = 2) had respectively no, very little, moderate, high, and extreme misinformation. The overall median DISCERN score ranged from 5.0 (IQR: 2.0–5.0) to 5.0 (IQR: 5.0–5.0). A positive statistically significant correlation was found between video length and PEMAT A/V Understandability (r = 0.27, p = 0.01), video length and PEMAT A/V Actionability (r = .26, p = 0.02), and video length and DISCERN Question 16 (r = 0.28, p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Nowaday, the overall quality of YouTubeTM videos on BPS have been evaluated good according to PEMAT A/V, GQS, Misinformation tool, and DISCERN score. It is possible to assume that YouTubeTM may be considered as a reliable source of information on BPS.
Addressing current challenges in adult nursing: Describing a virtual Consensus development project methodology
Authors: Taylor Bethany , South Jane , Robertson Steve , Ryan Tony , Wood Emily , King Rachel Louise , Senek Michaela , Tod Angela , Seymour Jane
Published: September 2021

Aim

This article describes the development and implementation of a virtual Consensus development project to address current challenges in adult nursing care in the UK.

Design

This is a Consensus Development Project (CDP).

Methods

The five stages of this CDP were: develop questions (informed by PPI representatives and a documentary review), generate evidence reviews, recruit and orient the lay panel, host Consensus seminars, and consult with panel members and stakeholders.

Results

To the best of our knowledge, a CDP has not previously been conducted in a UK nursing context, and this is the first of its kind to be hosted virtually. This article contributes a detailed outline of the Consensus development methodology and constructive commentary to support future Consensus development projects. Learning points include reflections on the impact of hosting this event virtually, the relationship between the project coordinator and chair, and the composition of the lay panel.
Performance‐based optimal control for stochastic nonlinear systems with unknown dead‐zone
Authors: Li Kewen , Li Yongming
Published: September 2021

This article studies the problem of performance‐guaranteed adaptive fuzzy optimal compensator control for stochastic affine nonlinear systems with dead‐zone and unknown nonlinear dynamics. First, by using the error transformation techniques, the original system is transformed into an equivalent unconstraint system. Then, a feedforward fuzzy compensator is constructed to offset the influence raised by unknown dead‐zone. By designing identifier‐critic‐actor construction reinforcement learning, an adaptive fuzzy optimal performance constraint compensate control algorithm is presented. The developed control scheme can ensure that all signals of the controlled system are uniformly ultimately bounded, and the output can track the reference signal with a prescribed accuracy. Finally, simulation results are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the developed control algorithm and theorem.
Effects of graphene nanosheets decorated by cerium stannate on the enhancement of flame retardancy and mechanical performances of flexible polyurethane foam composites
Authors: Yu Xiaoli , Wang Bibo , Jia Pengfei , Yin Zhenting , Tang Gang , Zhou Xiaodong , Lu Tingting , Guo Liying , Song Lei , Hu Yuan
Published: September 2021

As one of the most used polyurethane, flexible polyurethane foam (FPUF) still confronted highly flammable problems. However, current flame retardant employed in FPUF deteriorated the other utilization performances, such as mechanical properties. In this work, cerium stannate decorated graphene nanosheets (GNS@Ce2Sn2O7, GCSO) was prepared to fabricate flame retardant FPUF composites. Compared to pure FPUF, the tensile strength and average compression strength of FPUF composites accomplished 100 and 412% increase, respectively, while the average rebound was basically maintained. In contrast to pure FPUF, total heat release and total smoke production of FPUF composites displayed a 42.2 and 75.1% reduction, respectively. Furthermore, the released toxic gases (such as, CO2, CO and NOx) during combustion were greatly decreased. These results were due to the catalytic and barrier effect of GCSO promoting the formation a high‐quality char residue with a compact, intact and dense morphology. Therefore, it provides a facile method to fabricate FPUF composites with advanced comprehensive performance for the furniture field.
Biopolyethylene/Morinda citrifolia cellulosic biocomposites: The impact of chemical crosslinking and PE‐g‐MA compatibilizer
Authors: Luna Carlos Bruno Barreto , da Silva Barbosa Ferreira Eduardo , dos Santos Nogueira Jessika Andrade , Araújo Edcleide Maria , do Nascimento Emanuel Pereira , da Costa Agra de Melo João Baptista
Published: September 2021

The development of new ecological materials to promote sustainability is being encouraged. Crosslinked biopolyethylene (BioPE)/noni flour (Morinda citrifolia) biocomposites were prepared using maleic anhydride‐grafted polyethylene (PE‐g‐MA) and dicumyl peroxide (DCP). The biocomposites were processed in an internal mixer and injection molded. Torque rheometry, Izod impact strength, tensile strength, heat deflection temperature (HDT), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) properties were investigated. Torque rheometry curves suggest that the biocomposites did crosslink due to the DCP attack on the BioPE chain. The BioPE/noni flour/PE‐g‐MA formulation with 0.5% and 1% DCP produced a higher level of crosslinking. As a result, the mechanical properties (impact strength, elastic modulus, and tensile strength) were improved. SEM showed fractured noni flour particles in the BioPE matrix with the formation of a tubular structure. The HDT increased, suggesting that the biocomposites exhibit enhanced thermomechanical strength. Furthermore, the biocomposites thermal properties obtained by DSC underwent few modifications. The TG results showed that the crosslinked biocomposites have better thermal stability than the noncrosslinked biocomposites. The crosslinking process of BioPE/noni flour biocomposites with the PE‐g‐MA/DCP hybrid is an effective way to improve the performance of these materials.
Moisture diffusion in web‐flange junctions of pultruded glass fiber reinforced polymeric bridge profiles
Authors: Xin Haohui , Liu Yuqing , Mosallam Ayman , Zhang Youyou , He Jun
Published: September 2021

Attributed to the rich‐resin zone and potential formation of folded fabrics, the web‐flange junctions (WFJs) usually present premature failure. The moisture diffusion process plays a crucial role in understanding the material degradation of glass fiber reinforced polymeric composite profiles exposed to hydrothermal environments. In this paper, moisture diffusion parameters were calibrated by gravimetric tests of thin plates (100.0 × 6.0 × 2.3 mm) at different temperatures and environmental conditions. Additionally, gravimetric tests of WFJs were conducted to investigate three‐dimensional moisture diffusion at different temperatures and environmental conditions. Experimental results showed that the moisture uptake for specimens exposed to artificial seawater is larger than specimens exposed to freshwater through identical exposure periods. The moisture uptakes ratio of WFJs ranges from 1.66 to 3.07 for and 3.05 to 8.57 for . The non‐Fick water diffusion of WFJs simulated by the finite element method was validated by moisture uptake experimental observations. A good agreement was observed between experimental observations and non‐Fick FE simulations. WFJs specimens exhibited non‐uniform mass concentration at the inner side and lower mass concentration zone gradually formed, and the uneven residual stress occurred during moisture migration.
Evaluation of the aging of elastomeric acrylonitrile‐butadiene rubber and ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer gaskets used to seal plates heat exchanger
Authors: de Souza Elias Luiz , de Souza Zanzi Mateus , de Paiva Kleber Vieira , Goes Oliveira Jorge Luiz , Monteiro André Sampaio , de Oliveira Barra Guilherme Mariz , Dutra Gabriel Benedet
Published: September 2021

Acrylonitrile‐butadiene rubber (NBR) and ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer (EPDM) gaskets are used as seals in plates heat exchangers due to their elasticity and resilience. However, contact with fluids, oxygen, ozone, and heat lead to permanent deformation. This study investigates the degradation of gaskets submitted to similar service conditions: compressed in a groove for up to 360 h at 100 and 120°C. The analysis was carried through compression set (CS), compression stress relaxation, surface morphology, Shore A hardness, indentation modulus profile, crosslink density, and Fourier transform infrared region with attenuated total reflection analysis. For EPDM, in thermo‐oxidative aging there is a counterbalance between chain scission and crosslinking, which increases CS while hardness and crosslink density remain low. For NBR, diffusion‐limited oxidation causes heterogeneous oxidation, creating a crosslinking network near the surface. The values for CS, Shore A hardness, and crosslink density raised to 50%, 10%, and 75%, respectively. Furthermore, the side thermo‐oxidation was reduced due to the presence of the groove, which reduces oxygen access. Using FITR analysis, a thermo‐oxidative interaction mechanism was proposed for the EPDM and NBR gaskets. It was concluded that EPDM presented a more reliable behavior for the gasket and seal applications under the analyzed conditions.
The ISPAT project: Implementation of a standardized training program for caregivers of children with tracheostomy
Authors: Yilmaz Yegit Cansu , Kilinc Ayse Ayzit , Can Oksay Sinem , Unal Fusun , Yazan Hakan , Köstereli Ebru , Gulieva Aynur , Arslan Hüseyin , Uzuner Selçuk , Onay Zeynep Reyhan , Kilic Baskan Azer , Collak Abdulhamit , Atag Emine , Ergenekon Almala Pinar , Bas Ikizoğlu Nilay , Ay Pinar , Oktem Sedat , Gokdemir Yasemin , Girit Saniye , Cakir Erkan , Uyan Zeynep Seda , Cokugras Haluk , Karadag Bulent , Karakoc Fazilet , Erdem Eralp Ela
Published: September 2021

Background

Tracheostomy‐related morbidity and mortality mainly occur due to decannulation, misplacement, or obstruction of the tube. A standardized training can improve the skills and confidence of the caregivers in tracheostomy care (TC).

Objective

Our primary aim was to evaluate the efficiency of standardized training program on the knowledge and skills (changing‐suctioning the tracheostomy tube) of the participants regarding TC.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐five caregivers of children with tracheostomy were included. First, participants were evaluated with written test about TC and participated in the practical tests. Then, they were asked to participate in a standardized training session, including theoretical and practical parts. Baseline and postintervention assessments were compared through written and practical tests conducted on the same day.

Results

A significant improvement was observed in the written test score after the training. The median number of correct answers of the written test including 23 questions increased 26%, from 12 to 18 (p < .001). The median number of correct steps in tracheostomy tube change (from 9 to 16 correct steps out of 16 steps, 44% increase) and suctioning the tracheostomy tube (from 9 to 17 correct steps out of 18 steps, 44% increase) also improved significantly after the training (p < .001, for both).

Conclusion

Theoretical courses and practical hands‐on‐training (HOT) courses are highly effective in improving the practices in TC. A standardized training program including HOT should be implemented before discharge from the hospital. Still there is a need to assess the impact of the program on tracheostomy‐related complications, morbidity, and mortality in the long term.
The ubiquitous buried water in thebeta‐trefoilarchitecture contributes to the folding nucleus and ~20% of the folding enthalpy
Authors: Parker Joseph B. , Tenorio Connie A. , Blaber Michael
Published: September 2021

The beta‐trefoil protein architecture is characterized by three repeating “trefoil” motifs related by rotational symmetry and postulated to have evolved via gene duplication and fusion events. Despite this apparent structural symmetry, the primary and secondary structural elements typically exhibit pronounced asymmetric features. A survey of this family of proteins has revealed that among the most conserved symmetric structural elements is a ubiquitous buried solvent which participates in a bridging H‐bond with three different beta‐strands in each of the trefoil motifs. A computational analysis reported that these waters are likely associated with a substantial enthalpic contribution to overall stability. In this report, a Pro mutation is used to disrupt one of the water H‐bond interactions to a main chain amide, and the effects upon stability and folding kinetics are determined. Combined with Ala mutations, the separate effects upon side chain truncation and H‐bond deletion are analyzed in terms of stability and folding kinetics. The results show that these buried waters act to assemble a central folding nucleus, and are responsible for ~20% of the overall favorable enthalpy of folding.
Abiraterone acetate versus nonsteroidal antiandrogen with androgen deprivation therapy for high‐risk metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer
Authors: Yanagisawa Takafumi , Kimura Takahiro , Mori Keiichiro , Suzuki Hirotaka , Sano Takayuki , Otsuka Takashi , Iwamoto Yuya , Fukuokaya Wataru , Miyajima Keiichiro , Enei Yuki , Sakanaka Keigo , Matsukawa Akihiro , Onuma Hajime , Obayashi Koki , Tsuzuki Shunsuke , Hata Kenichi , Shimomura Tatsuya , Miki Jun , Egawa Shin
Published: September 2021

Background

Although prostate cancer is a very common form of malignancy in men, the clinical significance of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with abiraterone acetate versus the nonsteroidal antiandrogen bicalutamide has not yet been verified in patients with high‐risk metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC). The present study was designed to initiate this verification in real‐world Japanese clinical practice.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the records of 312 patients with high‐risk mHSPC based on LATITUDE criteria and had received ADT with bicalutamide (n = 212) or abiraterone acetate (n = 100) between September 2015 and December 2020. Bicalutamide was given at 80 mg daily and abiraterone was given at 1000 mg daily as four 250‐mg tablets plus prednisolone (5–10 mg daily). Overall survival (OS), cancer‐specific survival (CSS), and time to castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) were compared. The prognostic factor for time to CRPC was analyzed by Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

Patients in the bicalutamide group were older, and more of them had poor performance status (≧2), than in the abiraterone group. Impaired liver function was noted in 2% of the bicalutamide group and 16% of the abiraterone group (p < 0.001). Median follow‐up was 22.5 months for bicalutamide and 17 months for abiraterone (p < 0.001). Two‐year OS and CSS for bicalutamide versus abiraterone was 77.8% versus 79.5% (p = 0.793) and 81.1% versus 82.5% (p = 0.698), respectively. Median time to CRPC was significantly longer in the abiraterone group than in the bicalutamide group (NA vs. 13 months, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, Gleason score ≧9, high alkaline phosphatase, high lactate dehydrogenase, liver metastasis, and bicalutamide were independent prognostic risk factors for time to CRPC. Abiraterone prolonged the time to CRPC in patients with each of these prognostic factors.

Conclusions

Despite limitations regarding the time‐dependent bias, ADT with abiraterone acetate significantly prolonged the time to CRPC compared to bicalutamide in patients with high‐risk mHSPC. However, further study with longer follow‐up is needed.
Evaluation protocols for flammable and toxic dispersion models
Authors: Gavelli Filippo , Hendrickson Bryant , Kooy Rich , Kolade Babajide
Published: September 2021

The siting of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities requires several types of hazards to be quantified so that the risk to the public and public property in areas surrounding each facility can be properly assessed. In order to quantify the hazards from potential accident scenarios, computational tools must be used. Given the multiplicity of tools available, ranging from empirical models to 3D computational fluid dynamics packages, the agency responsible for reviewing the hazard analysis may not have the methodologies or protocols necessary to determine the suitability of a given model to a certain scenario, its accuracy, and any other setup requirements. The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) commissioned Blue Engineering and Consulting and the Gas Technology Institute to develop a set of model evaluation protocols (MEPs) that will allow the review of modeling tools for several different hazards, including flammable and toxic dispersion, source terms for dispersion models, vapor cloud explosions, and boiling liquid expanding vapor explosions (BLEVEs). The project will provide PHMSA with the means to properly evaluate modeling tools for these hazards, which are required to be evaluated in an LNG facility siting study. It will also provide clarity to LNG plant developers and their safety consultants on which models may be used and which safety factors need to be applied, and will increase the public's confidence in the regulatory review process of LNG facilities. This article discusses the first two MEPs completed as part of this project, which are focused on evaluating flammable dispersion and toxic dispersion models, respectively. This article describes the evaluation methodology, including the information to be submitted by the model proponents and the review process, and the model validation databases compiled for each protocol.
Growth of Metal Oxide Nanostructures by Thermal Oxidation of Metals Under Influence of External Electric Fields and Electric Current Flow
Authors: Piqueras Javier , Hidalgo Pedro
Published: September 2021

Thermal oxidation of metals in a furnace or a hot plate is a simple and low‐cost method to grow nanowires and other nanostructures of oxides of technological interest. In comparison with evaporation–deposition techniques based on vapor–solid (VS) or vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) mechanisms, thermal oxidation is a more direct and easy technique but does not normally lead to the formation of complex heterostructures or ternary oxides. Application of an external electric field at the sample during thermal oxidation has been used to improve the control of the nanowire dimensions, or final concentration on the starting metal surface. Other approach to grow oxide nanowires during the oxidation process is to heat the sample by Joule effect by the flow of a high‐density electric current in a metal wire. Joule heating has been found to reduce the growth time, typically some hours in thermal oxidation or evaporation–deposition methods, to few seconds or minutes. Herein, the results of representative articles on nanowire growth during thermal oxidation under the presence of an electric field and on the growth during Joule heating are summarized in the frame of mechanisms of stress relaxation‐driven ion diffusion and of thermally assisted electromigration.