bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of reported outcomes and outcome measures in randomized trials evaluating surgical interventions for posterior vaginal prolapse to aid development of a core outcome set
Authors: Lourenço Thais R.M. , Pergialiotis Vasilis , Durnea Constantin M. , Elfituri Abdullatif , Haddad Jorge M. , Betschart Cornelia , Falconi Gabriele , Nygaard Christiana C. , Bergstrom Lina , Pattel Mittal , Doumouchtsis Stergios K. ,   on behalf of CHORUS: An International Collaboration for Harmonising Outcomes, Research and Standards in Urogynaecology and Women's Health
Published: December 2019

Background

Recent systematic reviews have demonstrated wide variations on outcome measure selection and outcome reporting in trials on surgical treatments for anterior, apical and mesh prolapse surgery. A systematic review of reported outcomes and outcome measures in posterior compartment vaginal prolapse interventions is highly warranted in the process of developing core outcome sets.

Objective

To evaluate outcome and outcome measures reporting in posterior prolapse surgical trials.

Search strategy

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL).

Selection criteria

Randomized trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of different surgical interventions for posterior compartment vaginal prolapse.

Data collection and analysis

Two researchers independently assessed studies for inclusion, evaluated methodological quality, and extracted relevant data. Methodological quality, outcome reporting quality and publication characteristics were evaluated.

Main results

Twenty‐seven interventional and four follow‐up trials were included. Seventeen studies enrolled patients with posterior compartment surgery as the sole procedure and 14 with multicompartment procedures. Eighty‐three reported outcomes and 45 outcome measures were identified. The most frequently reported outcomes were blood loss (20 studies, 74%), pain (18 studies, 66%) and infection (16 studies, 59%).

Conclusions

Wide variations in reported outcomes and outcome measures were found. Until a core outcome set is established, we propose an interim core outcome set that could include the three most commonly reported outcomes of the following domains: hospitalization; intraoperative, postoperative urinary, gastrointestinal, vaginal and sexual outcomes; clinical effectiveness.

PROSPERO: CRD42017062456.
Polarized light therapy: Shining a light on the mechanism underlying its immunomodulatory effects
Authors: Feehan Jack , Tripodi Nicholas , Fraser Sarah , Mikkelsen Kathleen , Thewlis April , Kiatos Dimitrios , Husaric Maja , Apostolopoulos Vasso
Published: December 2019

This study investigates the immunomodulatory effects of polychromatic polarized light therapy (PLT) on human monocyte cells. While there is some evidence demonstrating a clinical effect in the treatment of certain conditions, there is little research into its mechanism of action. Herein, U937 monocyte cells were cultured and exposed to PLT. The cells were then analyzed for change in expression of genes and cell surface markers relating to inflammation. It was noted that 6 hours of PLT reduced the expression of the CD14, MHC I and CD11b receptors, and increased the expression of CD86. It was also shown that PLT caused downregulation of the genes IL1B, CCL2, NLRP3 and NOD1, and upregulation of NFKBIA and TLR9. These findings imply that PLT has the capacity for immunomodulation in human immune cells, possibly exerting an anti‐inflammatory effect.
Dosing of Continuous Fentanyl Infusions in Obese Children: A Population Pharmacokinetic Analysis
Authors: Maharaj Anil R. , Wu Huali , Zimmerman Kanecia O. , Speicher David G. , Sullivan Janice E. , Watt Kevin , Al‐Uzri Amira , Payne Elizabeth H. , Erinjeri Jinson , Lin Susan , Harper Barrie , Melloni Chiara , Hornik Christoph P. ,   Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act – Pediatric Trials Network Steering Committee
Published: December 2019

Differences in fentanyl pharmacokinetics (PK) between obese and nonobese adults have previously been reported; however, the impact of childhood obesity on fentanyl PK is relatively unknown. We developed a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model using opportunistically collected samples from a cohort of predominately obese children receiving fentanyl per the standard of care. Using a probability‐based approach, we evaluated the ability of different continuous infusion strategies to provide steady‐state concentrations (Css) within an analgesic concentration range (1‐3 ng/mL). Fifty‐three samples from 32 children were used for PopPK model development. Median (range) age and body weight of study participants were 13 years (2‐19 years) and 52 kg (16‐164 kg), respectively. The majority of children (94%) were obese. A 2‐compartment model allometrically scaled by total body weight provided an appropriate fit to the data. Estimated typical clearance was 32.5 L/h (scaled to 70 kg). A fixed dose rate infusion of 1 µg/kg/h was associated with probabilities between 49% and 58% for achieving Css within target; however, the risk of achieving Css > 3 ng/mL increased with increasing body weight (15% at 16 kg vs 43% at 164 kg). A proposed model‐based infusion strategy maintained consistent probabilities across the examined weight range for achieving Css within (58%) and above (20%) target. Use of an allometric relationship between weight and clearance was appropriate for describing the PK of intravenous fentanyl in our cohort of predominately obese children. Our proposed model‐derived continuous infusion strategy maximized the probability of achieving target Css in children of varying weights.
An efficient green synthesis of new benzothiazoles containing sulfonamide or cyclic imide moieties
Authors: Bougheloum Chafika , Alioua Sabrina , Belghiche Robila , Benali Nesma , Messalhi Abdelrani
Published: December 2019

An efficient and convenient protocol for the one‐pot synthesis of new benzothiazoles bearing sulfonamide or cyclic imide moieties using Cesium salt of Wells‐Dawson heteropolyacid (Cs5HP2W18O62) as solid catalyst and water as solvent under ultrasound irradiation was reported. The reaction speed was remarkably catalyzed with the aid of ultrasound irradiation. Moreover, this approach prepares multiple other benefits such as operational ease, higher yields, and energy performance.
Synthesis of Pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐2,4‐diones and Pyridino[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐2,4,6,8‐tetraones: Evaluation Antitumor Activity
Authors: Haggam Reda A. , Assy Mohamed G. , Mohamed Enaiat K. , Mohamed Abdussattar S.
Published: December 2019

A series of some novel pyrano[2,3‐d]pyrimidine 4–10 with 75–95% yields and pyridino[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives 11–16 with 75–92% yields is reported. The building structures have been achieved by reaction of 5‐arylidene barbituric acid 2 and active nucleophile carbon or nitrogen as examples barbituric acid and acetyl acetone or refluxing of bispyrimidine‐2,4,6‐trione derivative 3 with cyclizing reagents such as phosphorous pentoxide, hydrazine hydrate and aminothiazole. The newly synthesized structures have been elucidated on the basis of their spectral analysis. Some selected members were screened for antitumor activity. Among the screened compounds 9, 16, 7, 10 and 8 exhibited high antitumor activity.
Directly observed therapy and risk of unfavourable tuberculosis treatment outcomes among an international cohort of people living with HIV in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Pettit April C , Jenkins Cathy A , Blevins Peratikos Meridith , Yotebieng Marcel , Diero Lameck , Do Cuong D , Ross Jeremy , Veloso Valdilea G , Hawerlander Denise , Marcy Olivier , Shepherd Bryan E , Fenner Lukas , Sterling Timothy R ,   for the International Epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS (IeDEA) Consortium
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Identification of persons living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐associated tuberculosis (TB) at increased risk for unfavourable TB outcomes would inform efforts to improve such outcomes. We sought to identify factors associated with a decreased risk of unfavourable TB treatment outcomes among people living with HIV‐infection (PLHIV) in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC), with a specific focus on directly observed therapy (DOT) compared with self‐administered therapy (SAT) during the continuation phase of anti‐TB therapy.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study among adults diagnosed with HIV‐associated TB in Africa, Asia and the Americas from 2012 to 2013; data were collected from 2012 to 2016. Unfavourable TB treatment outcomes (death during TB treatment, and TB treatment failure or recurrence) were defined according to World Health Organization criteria. Receipt of DOT was obtained at the site level and defined as ≥5 days of DOT per week. The person administering DOT and treatment location varied by site. Lack of receipt of DOT was defined as SAT. Multivariable logistic regression estimated the adjusted odds of unfavourable TB treatment outcomes.

Results

Among 1862 adults with HIV‐associated TB included, 252 (13.5%) had unfavourable TB outcomes (226 deaths, 26 recurrences/failures). Overall, 1825 (98%) received DOT in the intensive phase and 1617 (87%) received DOT in the continuation phase. DOT in the continuation phase was not significantly associated with unfavourable TB outcomes (aOR 1.43, 95% CI 0.86 to 2.38) compared to SAT. Body mass index (BMI) change during anti‐TB treatment (per 2 units increase, aOR 0.74, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.82) and CD4+ count at TB diagnosis (200 vs. 50  cells/µL, aOR 0.54, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.73) were both independently associated with decreased odds of unfavourable TB treatment outcomes.

Conclusions

In this large, international cohort of people living with HIV‐associated TB in LMIC who received intensive phase DOT, DOT during the continuation phase of anti‐TB therapy was not associated with a decreased odds of unfavourable TB treatment outcomes compared to SAT. Randomized trials evaluating the effect of continuation‐phase DOT on TB outcomes among PLHIV are needed.
Serological evidence of DENV, JEV, and ZIKV among the indigenous people (Orang Asli) of Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Khor Chee‐Sieng , Mohd‐Rahim Nurul‐Farhana , Hassan Habibi , Tan Kim‐Kee , Zainal Nurhafiza , Teoh Boon‐Teong , Sam Sing‐Sin , Khoo Jing‐Jing , Lee Hai‐Yen , Lim Yvonne Ai‐Lian , Abubakar Sazaly
Published: December 2019

Dengue virus (DENV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), and Zika virus (ZIKV) are mosquito‐borne flavivirus of medical importance in tropical countries such as Malaysia. However, much remains unknown regarding their prevalence among the underserved indigenous people (Orang Asli) living in communities in the forest fringe areas of Peninsular Malaysia. Information on the prevalence of diseases is necessary to elevate the effectiveness of disease control and preventive measures. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of the three major flaviviruses among the Orang Asli and investigate the association between demographic factors and seropositivities. Sampling activities were conducted in the Orang Asli villages to obtain serum samples and demographic data from consenting volunteers. The presence of DENV, JEV, and ZIKV immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies in the sera were examined using commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits. A focus reduction neutralization assay was performed to measure virus‐specific neutralizing antibodies. A total of 872 serum samples were obtained from the Orang Asli volunteers. Serological assay results revealed that DENV IgG, JEV IgG, and ZIKV IgG seropositivities among the Orang Asli were at 4.9%, 48.4%, and 13.2%, respectively. Neutralizing antibodies (FRNT50 ≥ 1:40) against JEV and ZIKV were found in 86.7% and 100.0%, respectively, out of the samples tested. Positive serology to all three viruses corresponded significantly to the age of the volunteers with increasing seropositivity in older volunteers. Findings from the study suggest that Orang Asli are at significant risk of contracting JEV and ZIKV infections despite the lack of active transmission of the viruses in the country.
Temperature dependent X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy studies of polycrystalline YCrO3 ceramics across the TC ~ 460 K
Authors: Mall Ashish Kumar , Paul Barnita , Garg Ashish , Gupta Rajeev
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we report the X‐ray diffraction studies over the temperature range of 300–900 K and subsequent Rietveld refinement of the diffraction patterns shows that there is no evidence of any structural phase transition in YCrO3 (YCO) across the paraelectric to ferroelectric phase transitions (TC ~ 460 K), and the material retains the orthorhombic structure with Pnma space group. However, a detailed analysis reveals local distortions in the CrO6 octahedra. To probe the local structural distortion, we have carried out temperature‐dependent, unpolarized Raman measurements, from 300 to 600 K. YCrO3 shows a strong anomalous deviation in both phonon wavenumbers and line widths around TC. YCrO3 is reported to possess as an incipient ferroelectric material to show that there are two competing phenomenon—onset of ferroelectricity due to rotation of CrO6 octahedra and displacement of Y atom leading to suppression of ferroelectricity. This competition reveals that although the octahedral rotations favor a lower symmetry state, the Y atom displacement opposes it leaving YCO to exhibit only an incipient ferroelectric state. These results while being in agreement with the earlier theoretical predictions can also help suggest a pathway to a more stable ferroelectric state in these oxides by using a larger cationic substitution at the Y site.
Introduction to the Special Section on Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD): The Evolution of a Disorder
Authors: Karatzias Thanos , Levendosky Alytia A.
Published: December 2019

The inclusion of complex posttraumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) in the 11th revision of the International Classification of Diseases is an important development in the field of psychotraumatology. Complex PTSD was developed as a response to a clinical need to describe difficulties commonly associated with exposure to traumatic stressors that are predominantly of an interpersonal nature. With this special section, we bring attention to this common condition following exposure to traumatic stressors that only recently has been designated an official diagnosis. In this introduction, we review the history of CPTSD as a new condition and we briefly introduce the papers for the special section in the present issue of the Journal of Traumatic Stress. It is our hope that the work presented in the special section will add to an ever‐expanding evidence base. We also hope that this work inspires further research on the cultural validity of CPTSD, its assessment, and treatment.
Using 3‐dimensional ultrasound islice technology for the diagnosis of developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Geng Chenchen , Xu Hongtao , Zhan Xinfeng , Li Li , Song Qian , Zhang Lu , Ge Ling
Published: December 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the reliability of 3‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound in screening for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) by comparing the results with those of 2‐dimensional (2D) ultrasound.

Methods

One hundred five infants who were younger than 6 months were enrolled in this study. All of the infants underwent 2D and 3D ultrasound scanning for DDH by novices and experts, and the images were graded by a lead expert. The scanning time and image grades were analyzed by Student t tests (P < .05). The consistency of the α angle measurement between the novices and experts was evaluated by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The 105 infants included 34 boys and 71 girls. On 2D scanning, there was agreement between the experts about the correct diagnosis, whereas in the novice group, 41 infants had misdiagnoses. There were no misdiagnoses with 3D scanning in either group. In the novice group, the mean image grades ± SD were 4.2 ± 1.3 (2D ultrasound) and 8.1 ± 0.7 (3D ultrasound; P < .05). In the expert group, the mean image grades were 7.4 ± 1.0 (2D ultrasound) and 8.2 ± 1.0 (3D ultrasound; P < .05). There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in the grades for 3D ultrasound (P = .83). The scanning time for 3D ultrasound was shorter than that for 2D ultrasound in both groups (P < .05). In the novice group, the ICC of the α angle between the 2D and 3D ultrasound results was 0.34, and in the expert group, it was 0.92. The ICCs were 0.35 and 0.84, respectively when comparing 2D and 3D ultrasound results in the groups.

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional ultrasound required less time and showed greater inter‐rater reliability than 2D ultrasound for detecting DDH.
Surgical treatment following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Huang Ming‐Yii , Huang Ching‐Wen , Wang Jaw‐Yuan
Published: December 2019

Colorectal cancer is a major public health problem worldwide, and locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is known for its poor prognosis. A multimodal treatment approach is the only method to achieve satisfactory local recurrence and survival rates in LARC. Determining which therapeutic modality for LARC has the most satisfactory influence on quality of life and disease outcome is still controversial. LARC treatment is subject to continuous advancement due to the development of new and better diagnostic tools, radiotherapy techniques, and chemotherapeutic agents. Herein, we review various therapeutic modalities for LARC from several aspects. In addition to radiotherapy techniques such as neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT), we discuss the progress of chemotherapy, appropriate time interval between NCRT and surgery, relationship between tumor location and NCRT efficacy/safety, wait‐and‐watch policy, and predictors of treatment response following NCRT. Because of the controversies and unanswered questions regarding NCRT treatments for LARC, additional investigations are required to determine which therapeutic approach is the most feasible for LARC patients.
Improved SiRNA Loading of Cationic Nanohydrogel Particles by Variation of Crosslinking Density
Authors: Leber Nadine , Zentel Rudolf
Published: December 2019

This paper deals with a concept to improve the loading capability of cationic nanohydrogel particles with siRNA. For this purpose, a new tetrafunctional crosslinker is synthesized via a peptide coupling approach using lysine and spermine derivatives. Applying this four‐arm crosslinker to the particle synthesis makes it possible to perform the crosslinking with an excess or a deficit of the crosslinker. This allows for varying numbers of cationic groups per cationic core and its crosslinking density while the stability of the carrier system remains. The obtained cationic nanohydrogel particles are narrowly distributed in size as determined by dynamic light scattering measurements. Zeta potential measurements confirm the cationic nature of these carriers (ζ > +30 mV) and the ability to form complex anionic siRNA (agarose gel electrophoresis). As a result, it becomes possible to increase the siRNA loading by a factor of four by varying the composition of the crosslinked core. Such an increased siRNA loading should lead to an improved therapeutic gene knockdown effect.
Depression symptoms increase sharply in last months of life
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: December 2019

Although depression impacts quality of life at all stages, not much is known about depressive symptoms in the year prior to death, according to researchers of a new study who say that patients with depression have worse survival outcomes than nondepressed patients. Consequently, depression becomes a critical issue to screen for and manage in the context of serious illness, they stated.
The fasciocutaneous iliotibial band perforator flap in soft tissue and tendon reconstruction of the foot: A case report
Authors: Bottini Gian Battista , Gaggl Alexander , Steiner Christoph , Bürger Heinz K.
Published: December 2019

In cases of large defects of the limbs, post‐traumatic deformity and disability can have devastating effects on patients' quality of life. The purpose of this report is to describe the technique for raising a fasciocutaneous iliotibial perforator flap and present its application in the reconstruction of a complex soft tissue defect of the foot. The patient was a 13‐year‐old male who had suffered a crush injury to the foot in a motor vehicle accident 5 years earlier. Due to retraction of the skin, together with the extensor tendons of the digits, the patient could not flex the digits II, III, IV, and V. To reconstruct the defect, the authors harvested a fasciocutaneous flap based on a perforator branch of the superior lateral genicular artery and accompanying veins. The immediate postoperative course was uneventful, with progressive and complete recovery of power and range of motion in the foot and knee within 6 weeks. Despite the tendency to form hypertrophic scars again, the functionality of the operated foot was excellent 29 months after the reconstruction. According to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society scale, the patient scored 100 points on the midfoot section and 93 points on the section forefoot rays two to five. The iliotibial perforator flap could be a new tool for a state‐of‐the‐art functional reconstruction of soft tissues defects of the limbs and head and neck.
Comprehensive Exploration of Target‐specific Ligands Using a Graph Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Miyazaki Yu , Ono Naoaki , Huang Ming , Altaf‐Ul‐Amin Md. , Kanaya Shigehiko
Published: December 2019

Machine learning approaches are widely used to evaluate ligand activities of chemical compounds toward potential target proteins. Especially, exploration of highly selective ligands is important for the development of new drugs with higher safety. One difficulty in constructing well‐performing model predicting such a ligand activity is the absence of data on true negative ligand‐protein interactions. In other words, in many cases we can access to plenty of information on ligands that bind to specific protein, but less or almost no information showing that compounds don't bind to proteins of interest. In this paper, we suggested an approach to comprehensively explore candidates for ligands specifically targeting toward proteins without using information on the true negative interaction. The approach consists of 4 steps: 1) constructing a model that distinguishes ligands for the target proteins of interest from those targeting proteins that cause off‐target effects, by using graph convolution neural network (GCNN); 2) extracting feature vectors after convolution/pooling processes and mapping their principal components in two dimensions; 3) specifying regions with higher density for two ligand groups through kernel density estimation; and 4) investigating the distribution of compounds for exploration on the density map using the same classifier and decomposer. If compounds for exploration are located in higher‐density regions of ligand compounds, these compounds can be regarded as having relatively high binding affinity to the major target or off‐target proteins compared with other compounds. We applied the approach to the exploration of ligands for β‐site amyloid precursor protein [APP]‐cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1), a major target for Alzheimer Disease (AD), with less off‐target effect toward cathepsin D. We demonstrated that the density region of BACE1 and cathepsin D ligands are well‐divided, and a group of natural compounds as a target for exploration of new drug candidates also has significantly different distribution on the density map.
Improved reconstruction stability for chemical shift encoded hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging using k‐t spiral acquisitions
Authors: Macdonald Erin B. , Barton Gregory P. , Cox Benjamin L. , Johnson Kevin M. , Strigel Roberta M. , Fain Sean B.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

A multiecho, field of view (FOV)‐oversampled k‐t spiral acquisition and direct iterative decomposition of water and fat with echo asymmetry and least‐squares estimation reconstruction is demonstrated to improve the stability of hyperpolarized 13C magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) in the presence of signal ambiguities attributed to low‐SNR (signal‐to‐noise‐ratio) species, local uncertainties in metabolite peaks, and echo‐to‐echo signal inconsistencies.

Theory

k‐t spiral acquisitions redistribute readout points to be more densely spaced radially in k‐space by acquiring an FOV and matrix that are oversampled by η. These more densely spaced spiral turns constitute effective intraspiral echoes and can supplement conventional interspiral echoes to improve spectral separation and reduce spectral cross‐talk to better resolve 13C‐labeled species for spectroscopic imaging.

Methods

Digital simulations and imaging phantom experiments were performed for a range of interspiral echo spacings and η using multiecho, k‐t spiral acquisitions. Image spectral cross‐talk artifacts were evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively as the percent error in measured metabolite ratios. In vivo murine experiments evaluated the feasibility of multiecho, k‐t spiral [1‐13C]pyruvate MRSI to reduce spectral cross‐talk for 3 scenarios of different expected reconstruction stability.

Results

Digital simulations and imaging phantom experiments both demonstrated reduced or comparable image spectral cross‐talk and percent errors in measured metabolite ratios with increasing η and better choices of echo spacings. In vivo images displayed markedly reduced spectral cross‐talk in lactate images acquired with η = 7 versus η = 1.

Conclusion

The precision of hyperpolarized 13C metabolic imaging and quantification in the presence of low‐SNR species, local uncertainties in metabolite resonances, and echo‐to‐echo signal inconsistencies can be improved with the use of FOV‐oversampled k‐t spiral acquisitions.
Capacity choice game in a multiserver queue: Existence of a Nash equilibrium
Authors: Armony Mor , Roels Guillaume , Song Hummy
Published: December 2019

In many congestion‐prone services, front‐line employees have discretion over the rate at which they serve customers. To evaluate the impact of queue pooling on their decisions, we model the situation as a two‐server, single‐queue symmetric capacity choice game. Gopalakrishnan et al. (2016) characterize the existence of a Nash equilibrium in this game under a requirement on the servers' capacity cost functions, that is, where servers have limited discretion. Without that requirement and when servers are free to choose any service rate, the servers' cost function is ill‐behaved and standard tools for establishing the existence of an equilibrium cannot be applied. We consider a general power capacity cost function with no restriction on the servers' choice of capacity, and rely on a lesser‐known result, namely Tarski's intersection theorem, to establish the existence of a symmetric pure‐strategy Nash equilibrium. Comparing settings where queue stability is enforceable versus not, we show that there always exists a Nash equilibrium in the former case, unlike in the latter, and that some of the capacity choices that are equilibria in the former case are no longer equilibria in the latter. Our analysis highlights the criticality of the enforceability of system stability on equilibrium outcomes.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices in mental health of health professionals at the end of their curriculum in Burkina Faso: A pilot study
Authors: Sawadogo Konsam Cédric Christel , Lameyre Valérie , Gerard Daniel , Bruand Pierre‐Emile , Preux Pierre‐Marie
Published: December 2019

Aim

To study the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding mental health amongst health professionals at the end of their curriculum in Burkina Faso.

Design

A descriptive and cross‐sectional study was adopted.

Methods

A simple random sampling was used to select 420 health students in Burkina Faso. Self‐administered questionnaires on sociodemographic profile, knowledge, attitudes and practices about mental health were distributed.

Results

The response rate to the questionnaires was 93%. Our study sample included 391 students amongst whom 35% (138/391) were nurse students, 32% (125/391) medical students, 26% (100/391) midwife students and 7% (28/391) were pharmacy students. A quarter of our sample had completed an internship in psychiatry. Medical students’ average knowledge, attitudes and practices in mental health were significantly higher than that of other students. Medical students had more time dedicated to mental health lectures and more opportunities for a mental health internship, unlike nurse students.
Long‐term study of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate in Japanese children and adolescents with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Ichikawa Hironobu , Miyajima Tasuku , Yamashita Yushiro , Fujiwara Masakazu , Fukushi Akimasa , Saito Kazuhiko
Published: December 2019

Aims

As an extension of a phase 2/3 study evaluating the efficacy and safety of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) 30, 50, or 70 mg/d for 4 weeks in Japanese patients aged 6‐17 years with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), this study evaluated its long‐term safety and efficacy.

Methods

This was a multicenter, open‐label study of LDX for 53 weeks. Safety was assessed by regular medical examination for treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs); regular recording of body weight, vital signs, and laboratory test values; and completion of dependence questionnaires. Efficacy was assessed using Japanese versions of the ADHD‐Rating Scale‐IV (ADHD‐RS‐IV) and Conners' 3rd edition Parent Rating Scale (Conners 3); plus Clinical Global Impression‐Improvement (CGI‐I), Clinical Global Impression‐Severity, and Parent Global Assessment (PGA) scales.

Results

Of 132 enrolled patients, 104 completed the trial. Most frequent treatment‐related TEAEs were decreased appetite (73.5%), initial insomnia (39.4%), and weight decrease (22.0%). Most TEAEs were mild (82.6% of patients). There were no serious or severe TEAEs or deaths. No treatment‐related TEAEs were associated with blood pressure or pulse rate, and no patient had a QTcF interval >500 ms. Statistically significant improvement from baseline to week 53 was observed in the mean ADHD‐Rating Scale‐IV total score and mean Conners 3 subscale scores. Most patients showed improvement on the CGI‐I (78%) and PGA (76.5%) scales.

Conclusions

No significant safety issues were observed with LDX 30, 50, or 70 mg/d administered for 1 year in Japanese children and adolescents with ADHD. LDX was associated with long‐term reductions in ADHD symptoms and severity.
Effect of nanoparticle type and content on morphology, rheology, and crystallinity of poly(lactic acid) using titanium dioxide and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane nanoparticles
Authors: Rezaei Hamid , Seifi Sajad , Moeinifar Elham , Hejazi Iman , Seyfi Javad , Khonakdar Hossein Ali
Published: December 2019

In this study, under the same conditions, two different nanoparticles, namely, titanium dioxide (TiO2) and polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) were added to the poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix via the solution casting technique. Morphological analysis showed that POSS had a better distribution within the PLA matrix. However, rheological analysis revealed the stronger influence of TiO2 on shear viscosity values, and a more notable viscosity upturn at moderate to high inclusions of TiO2 within the low shear rate zone. On the other hand, POSS was found to act as a lubricant even at a content of 3 wt% which was attributed to the very small dimensions of POSS. Such lubricating role, found from rheology, caused a boost in the crystallinity of PLA based on differential scanning calorimetry results. Moreover, it was found that TiO2 had an adverse effect on the crystallinity of PLA which was ascribed to the hindered motions of PLA chains upon addition of moderate to high inclusions of TiO2. The results of this study emphasize the crucial role of nanoparticle type and content on the properties of PLA.
Significant enhancement of thermal conductivity in graphite/polyester composite via interfacial π–π interaction
Authors: Chen Weilong , Wu Kun , Tan Zhiyou , Lu Mangeng
Published: December 2019

Interfacial thermal resistance between matrix and filler is one of the most serious factors hindering heat transfer in composites. Here, a type of liquid crystalline polyester (LCP) containing phenyl pendant groups was intended to blend with pristine graphite by interfacial interaction. The intensity at 26.6° of the wide angle X‐ray diffraction pattern which exceeded that of pristine graphite indicated the existence of a strong interfacial π–π interaction. Both DSC and XRD tests showed that the ordered structure of the LCP matrix is directly affected by the mass fraction of graphite, indicating the interfacial interaction between LCP and graphite. By increasing the content of graphite, the thermal diffusivity showed a sharp increment by 1004%. The maximum thermal conductivity of the composite reached 28.613 W m−1 K−1, which was seven times that of traditional thermoplastic blended with graphite. Compared with the data calculated using effective medium theory, interfacial interaction plays a significant role in enhancing the thermal conductivity of the composites. Furthermore, the maximum tensile strength of this series of composites reached 13.3 MPa and the maximum Young's modulus reached 1067 MPa, exhibiting a potential guideline for further applications in flexible electronics. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Defect engineering of p‐type silicon heterojunction solar cells fabricated using commercial‐grade low‐lifetime silicon wafers
Authors: Chen Daniel , Kim Moonyong , Shi Jianwei , Vicari Stefani Bruno , Yu Zhengshan (Jason) , Liu Shaoyang , Einhaus Roland , Wenham Stuart , Holman Zachary , Hallam Brett
Published: December 2019

In this work, we integrate defect engineering methods of gettering and hydrogenation into silicon heterojunction solar cells fabricated using low‐lifetime commercial‐grade p‐type Czochralski‐grown monocrystalline and high‐performance multicrystalline wafers. We independently assess the impact of gettering on the removal of bulk impurities such as iron as well as the impact of hydrogenation on the passivation of grain boundaries and B‐O defects. Furthermore, we report for the first time the susceptibility of heterojunction devices to light‐ and elevated temperature–induced degradation and investigate the onset of such degradation during device fabrication. Lastly, we demonstrate solar cells with independently verified 1‐sun open‐circuit voltages of 707 and 702 mV on monocrystalline and multicrystalline silicon wafers, respectively, with a starting bulk minority‐carrier lifetime below 40 microseconds. These remarkably high open‐circuit voltages reveal the potential of inexpensive low‐lifetime p‐type silicon wafers for making devices with efficiencies without needing to shift towards n‐type substrates.
Coping and psychopathology in children with malignancy and bronchiectasis
Authors: Bikmazer Alperen , Orengul Abdurrahman Cahid , Buyukdeniz Ayşe , Okur Fatma Visal , Gokdemir Yasemin ,  Perdahli Fis Nese
Published: December 2019

Aim

We aimed to evaluate the coping styles and social support perceived by the children with two different chronic diseases (cancer and bronchiectasis), their mothers’ coping styles and compare them with a control group without any chronic physical or psychiatric disorder.

Methods

Our sample consisted of 114 children and adolescents, with an age range from 9 to 15 years. The data were collected by using schedule for affective disorders and schizophrenia for school‐age children‐present and lifetime version, kid‐coping orientation to problems experienced (Kid‐COPE), social support appraisals scale (SSAS), and COPE.

Results

All three groups were similar with respect to age and sex distribution. Around 50% to 60% of the children in both patient groups had a psychiatric diagnosis. Remarkably, 30% of the children had an internalizing disorder. The most commonly used coping style by the mothers was religious coping in all groups. Kid‐COPE scores did not significantly differ between groups. The scores on Family and Friend subscales of SSAS in the bronchiectasis group were significantly lower when compared with those of participants in hematology‐oncology and control groups.

Conclusion

Chronic medical illnesses may have a similar psychological impact on children regardless of disease‐specific clinical presentations and outcomes. Future studies need to focus on identifying protective and risk factors that potentially mediate psychosocial well‐being.
Shock to Detonation Transition of Plastic Bonded Aluminized Explosives
Authors: Elia Thomas , Baudin Gérard , Genetier Marc , Lefrançois Alexandre , Osmont Antoine , Catoire Laurent
Published: December 2019

Aluminum particles are usually added to plastic bonded explosives (PBX) in order to increase blast efficiency thanks to their post‐combustion with detonation products and air. These particles modify the shock to detonation (SDT) process of PBX. Their role has not been well understood. That is why, in this paper we proposed a review of the main hypotheses concerning aluminum particles effects on SDT. The main issue of thermal and mechanical equilibrium is discussed with the estimation of their impact on the Euler equations. This study also sums up the experimental data registered on RDX and HMX aluminized explosives. A comparison with a reference PBX is proposed and a new light on the mechanism of shock to detonation transition is given.
Neck pain associated with clinical symptoms in dizzy patients—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Knapstad Mari Kalland , Nordahl Stein Helge Glad , Skouen Jan Sture , Ask Tove , Goplen Frederik Kragerud
Published: December 2019

Objective

Many patients suffer from concurrent neck pain and dizziness. The aim of this study was to describe the clinical symptoms and physical findings in patients with concurrent neck pain and dizziness and to examine whether they differ from patients with dizziness alone.

Methods

Consecutive patients with dizziness and neck pain were recruited from an ear–nose–throat department and a spine clinic. They were divided into three groups: patients with dizziness only (n = 100), patients with dizziness as their primary complaint and additional neck pain (n = 138) and finally, patients with neck pain as their primary complaint accompanied by additional dizziness (n = 55). The patients filled in questionnaires regarding their symptom quality, time‐course, triggers of dizziness and the Vertigo Symptom Scale Short Form. The physical examination included Cervical Range of Motion, American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Tender Points, Cervical Pressure Pain Thresholds and Global Physiotherapy Examination 52‐Flexibility.

Results

Both neck pain groups were more likely to have a gradual onset of dizziness symptoms, more light‐headedness, visual disturbances, autonomic/anxiety symptoms, decreased cervical range of motion, decreased neck and shoulder flexibility and increased number of ACR tender points compared with patients with dizziness alone. The group having dizziness as their primary complaint and also reporting neck pain had the highest symptom severity and tended to report rocking vertigo and increased neck tenderness. The group with neck pain as their primary complaint was more likely to report headache.

Conclusion

Neck pain is associated with certain dizziness characteristics, increased severity of dizziness and increased physical impairment when compared with dizzy patients without neck pain.
A particle‐filter based adaptive inflation scheme for the ensemble Kalman filter
Authors: Ait‐El‐Fquih Boujemaa , Hoteit Ibrahim
Published: December 2019

An adaptive covariance inflation scheme is proposed for the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) to mitigate the loss of ensemble variance. Adaptive inflation methods are mostly based on a Bayesian approach, which considers the inflation factor as a random variable with a given prior probability distribution and then combines it with the inflation likelihood through Bayes' rule to obtain its posterior distribution. In this work, we introduce a numerical implementation of this generic Bayesian approach that uses a particle filter (PF) to compute a Monte Carlo approximation of the inflation posterior distribution. To alleviate the sample attrition issue, the proposed PF employs an artificial dynamical model for the inflation factor based on the well‐known smoothing‐kernel West and Liu model. The positivity constraint on the inflation factor is further imposed through an inverse‐Gamma transition density, with parameters that suggest analytical expressions. The resulting PF–EnKF scheme is straightforward to implement, and can use different numbers of particles in its EnKF and PF components. Numerical experiments are conducted with the Lorenz‐96 model to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method under various experimental scenarios.
Effects of different constants and standards on the reproducibility of carbonate clumped isotope (Δ47) measurements: Insights from a long‐term dataset
Authors: Chang Biao , Defliese William F. , Li Chao , Huang Junhua , Tripati Aradhna , Algeo Thomas J.
Published: December 2019

Rationale

Carbonate clumped isotope (Δ47) thermometry examines the temperature‐dependent excess abundance of the 13C–18O bond in the carbonate lattice. Inconsistent temperature calibrations and standard values have been reported among laboratories, which has led to the use of equilibrated gases and carbonate standards for standardization. Furthermore, different acid fractionation factors and isotopic parameter sets have been proposed for improving inter‐laboratory data comparability. However, few long‐term datasets have been generated to explore the effects of these factors on the long‐term reproducibility of Δ47 data within a laboratory.

Methods

Four standards (ISTB‐1, NBS‐19, GBWO4416, and GB04417) were analyzed as unknowns by isotope ratio mass spectrometry from 2015 to 2019. The values of Δ47 were calibrated using the ETH standards. We investigated the Assonov, Brand, and Gonfiantini isotope parameter sets for carbon and oxygen isotopes, as well as two correction schemes of equilibrated gas and carbonate standardization, using the same sample measurements to determine which procedures enhanced reproducibility. ISTB‐1 (calcite) and ZK312‐346W (dolomite) were measured to determine the 90°C acid fractionation factor.

Results

The corrected 90°C acid fractionation factors are 0.076 ± 0.008‰ for ISTB‐1 and 0.077 ± 0.009‰ for ZK312‐346W. The choice of isotope parameter set had no significant influence on final Δ47 values in this study. However, using the Assonov parameters to calculate Δ47 values improved the reproducibility of the results. The use of carbonate standards improved reproducibility through time compared with the use of equilibrated gases for standardization.

Conclusions

At 90°C, the acid fractionation factors of calcite and dolomite are statistically indistinguishable. We find an insignificant effect from changing the isotope parameter set, suggesting that the choice of isotope parameter set among laboratories is not a major factor affecting inter‐laboratory reproducibility. We find that using carbonate standards improved the reproducibility of results, suggesting that the use of carbonate standards may help to achieve inter‐laboratory comparability of results in future studies.
Assessing predictive accuracy of survival regressions subject to nonindependent censoring
Authors: Wang Ming , Long Qi , Chen Chixiang , Zhang Lijun
Published: December 2019

Survival regression is commonly applied in biomedical studies or clinical trials, and evaluating their predictive performance plays an essential role for model diagnosis and selection. The presence of censored data, particularly if informative, may pose more challenges for the assessment of predictive accuracy. Existing literature mainly focuses on prediction for survival probabilities with limitation work for survival time. In this work, we focus on accuracy measures of predicted survival times adjusted for a potentially informative censoring mechanism (ie, coarsening at random (CAR); non‐CAR) by adopting the technique of inverse probability of censoring weighting. Our proposed predictive metric can be adaptive to various survival regression frameworks including but not limited to accelerated failure time models and proportional hazards models. Moreover, we provide the asymptotic properties of the inverse probability of censoring weighting estimators under CAR. We consider the settings of high‐dimensional data under CAR or non‐CAR for extensions. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated through extensive simulation studies and analysis of real data from the Critical Assessment of Microarray Data Analysis.
Whom should a leader imitate? Using rivalry‐based imitation to manage strategic risk in changing environments
Authors: Sharapov Dmitry , Ross Jan‐Michael
Published: December 2019

Research Summary

We study the performance implications of dynamic environments for a leader's rivalry‐based imitation efforts in a setting with multiple rivals. We disentangle competitive interactions from environmental changes to show that a leader's simple rules to either imitate the closest rival in terms of attributes (her neighbor) or the closest rival in terms of rank (her challenger) can help to maintain the performance gap to her competitors. Using a computational model and an empirical test, we find that environmental changes alter the trade‐offs between imitation accuracy and the responsiveness to threats from distant rivals. Consequently, when environmental changes are infrequent and minor, neighbor imitation is more effective in maintaining the lead, whereas challenger imitation prevails as environmental changes become more frequent and substantial.

Managerial Summary

By showing that imitating a lower‐ranked rival can help a leader to stay ahead, recent research has overturned the common thinking that imitation is only useful for those trying to catch up with the leader. However, these insights come from contexts in which the leader has only one competitor. Can imitation also be effective for a leader competing against multiple rivals, and whom should the leader imitate? We find that imitation can indeed help the leader to maintain their lead against multiple rivals, but that the choice of imitation target matters and should take the competitive environment into account. In relatively stable environments, imitating your most similar rival works best, while imitating whoever is in second place is a more effective approach in changeable environments.