bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rare Osteochondroma of the Posterior Talar Process: A Case Report
Authors: Pham Luan , Wu Daniel
Published: September 2020

Osteochondromas are benign bone tumors that arise from divergent cartilage formation, most commonly in childhood versus adulthood. We report the case of a healthy 42-year-old woman who presented with an unusual solitary posterolateral ankle mass with associated pain and ankle impingement with 6-week follow-up. The patient was successfully treated with open surgical excision, with bone sent for pathologic diagnosis of benign osteochondroma. The patient returned to normal baseline function with no pain at 6-week follow-up. An open posterior ankle incision approach was performed to remove suspicious enlarged bony growth from the posterior talar process to be sent for pathologic evaluation. Pathologic evaluation reported benign osteochondroma of the posterior talar process, and the patient subsequently had routine healing of the postoperative incision site and return to full function without pain or disability at 6-week follow-up. This case study adds to the current understanding, incidence, occurrence, and treatment of rare osteochondromas occurring in the posterior talar process.
Nutrient levels and trade-offs control diversity in a serial dilution ecosystem
Authors: Erez Amir , Lopez Jaime G , Weiner Benjamin G , Meir Yigal , Wingreen Ned S
Published: September 2020

Microbial communities feature an immense diversity of species and this diversity is linked to outcomes ranging from ecosystem stability to medical prognoses. Yet the mechanisms underlying microbial diversity are under debate. While simple resource-competition models don't allow for coexistence of a large number of species, it was recently shown that metabolic trade-offs can allow unlimited diversity. Does this diversity persist with more realistic, intermittent nutrient supply? Here, we demonstrate theoretically that in serial dilution culture, metabolic trade-offs allow for high diversity. When a small amount of nutrient is supplied to each batch, the serial dilution dynamics mimic a chemostat-like steady state. If more nutrient is supplied, community diversity shifts due to an 'early-bird' effect. The interplay of this effect with different environmental factors and diversity-supporting mechanisms leads to a variety of relationships between nutrient supply and diversity, suggesting that real ecosystems may not obey a universal nutrient-diversity relationship.
A single-cell atlas of the mouse and human prostate reveals heterogeneity and conservation of epithelial progenitors
Authors: Crowley Laura , Cambuli Francesco , Aparicio Luis , Shibata Maho , Robinson Brian D , Xuan Shouhong , Li Weiping , Hibshoosh Hanina , Loda Massimo , Rabadan Raul , Shen Michael M
Published: September 2020

Understanding the cellular constituents of the prostate is essential for identifying the cell of origin for prostate adenocarcinoma. Here, we describe a comprehensive single-cell atlas of the adult mouse prostate epithelium, which displays extensive heterogeneity. We observe distal lobe-specific luminal epithelial populations (LumA, LumD, LumL, and LumV), a proximally enriched luminal population (LumP) that is not lobe-specific, and a periurethral population (PrU) that shares both basal and luminal features. Functional analyses suggest that LumP and PrU cells have multipotent progenitor activity in organoid formation and tissue reconstitution assays. Furthermore, we show that mouse distal and proximal luminal cells are most similar to human acinar and ductal populations, that a PrU-like population is conserved between species, and that the mouse lateral prostate is most similar to the human peripheral zone. Our findings elucidate new prostate epithelial progenitors, and help resolve long-standing questions about anatomical relationships between the mouse and human prostate.
When pH comes to the rescue
Authors: Gonçalves Davi , Santiago Alec , Morano Kevin A
Published: September 2020

In starving yeast exposed to thermal stress, a transient drop in intracellular pH helps to trigger the heat shock response.
Effects of Grog Additions on Some Refractory Properties of Raw (Abusoro) Kaolin Clay Deposit for Furnace Lining
Authors: Aluko A. O. , Ikubuwaje C. O.
Published: September 2020

The influence of the weight of grog on some refractory properties of raw Abusoro clay samples found in Abusoro Village, Ondo State, Nigeria was evaluated. These samples were presented for refractory tests (apparent porosity, linear shrinkage, refractoriness, bulk density and cold crushing strength). The weights of the grog were varied from 20-40 wt. % in the blend. The chemical and microstructural examinations of the untreated alumino-silicate Abusoro clay samples indicated that they are abundant in silica, SiO2 (62.74wt. %) and alumina, Al2O3 (31.42wt. %). Other minor compounds found are Fe2O3 (1.43%), K2O (0.30%) with no trace amounts of MgO (0.00); therefore, they are regarded as alumino-silicate. Particular observation is made on MgO with zero amounts and the total of K2O + Na2O + MgO which are less than 2% in the clay samples. These results signify that the clay possesses high viability for manufacturing of refractory bricks, pulp and paper, ceramics, fertilizers, paint and cement. The performance evaluations of the refractory bricks measured indicated acceptable and satisfactory results vis-à-vis standard refractory properties for refractory fireclay bricks. However, the apparent porosity (43.2%) and CCS (21.21MPa) obtained for Abusoro clay sample at 30% weight of grog may as well be suitable for insulating refractory applications. The high apparent porosity could be an indication of high content of silicon oxide in the raw clay.
Biomass Accumulation in the Fern Asplenium nidus avis (L) under Root Restriction
Authors: Pagani A. , Molinari J. , Giardina E. , Benedetto A. Di
Published: September 2020

Pot ornamental plant productivity is related to the environmental growth facilities but negatively affected by the pot root restriction syndrome. Most ferns showed a lower relative growth rate and long production cycles (24 months or more) for which growers use small pots to increase yield per unit area of greenhouse. The aim of this work was to analyze growth changes in response to different pot volume in plants of A. nidus avis spore-propagated under the hypothesis that it would play a role as an abiotic stress which decrease commercial productivity. Our results showed that the use of big pots increased fresh and dry weight and frond area (the main aesthetic trait). When growth parameters were performed, a higher the frond appearance rate (RLA), the frond area expansion (RLAE) and the frond thickness (SLA) were found in 1500 cm3 pot as well as the relative growth rate (RGR) and the net assimilation rate. The use of biggest pot for fern cropping stimulated biomass accumulation through a higher capacity to initiate and expand fronds, to increase photosynthetic rates and change photo assimilate partitioning which favor shoots. From the grower´s point of view, our results suggested that higher yields of A. nidus avis fern would be reached decreasing root restriction, that is, to use the biggest pot volume from the early transplant from plug trays.
Intervention Time Series Modeling of Infant Mortality: Impact of Free Maternal Health Care
Authors: Kisabuli J. , Ong'ala J. , Odero E.
Published: September 2020

Infant mortality is an important marker of the overall society health. The 3rd goal of the Sustainable Development Goals aims at reducing infant deaths that occur due to preventable causes by 2030. Due to increased infant mortality the Kenyan government introduced Free Maternal Health Care as an intervention towards reducing infant mortality through elimination of the cost burden of accessing medical care by the mother and the infant. The study examines the impact of Free Maternal Health Care on infant mortality using Intervention time series analysis particularly the intervention Box Jenkins ARIMA (Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average) model. There was significant support that Free Maternal Health Care had a significant impact on infant mortality which was estimated to be a decrease of 10.15% in infant deaths per month.
On the Algebraic Properties of Quasi-affine Bijective Transformations
Authors: Kalubi Charles Mbuyi , Landa Alain Musesa
Published: September 2020

A quasi-affine transformation, being the whole part of a rational affine transformation, is the discretized form of an affine transformation. Introduced by Marie-André Jacob-Da Col, it has been the subject of numerous studies. This article is devoted to the study of the algebraic structures of some quasi-affine bijective transformations, in particular the discrete translations of isolated points and Pythagorean rotations.
Continuous Heart Volume Monitoring by Fully Implantable Soft Strain Sensor
Authors: Dual Seraina A. , Llerena Zambrano Byron , Sündermann Simon , Cesarovic Nikola , Kron Mareike , Magkoutas Konstantinos , Hengsteler Julian , Falk Volkmar , Starck Christoph , Meboldt Mirko , Vörös János , Schmid Daners Marianne
Published: September 2020

Cardiothoracic open‐heart surgery has revolutionized the treatment of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. After the surgery, hemodynamic and volume management can be complicated, for example in case of vasoplegia after endocarditis. Timely treatment is crucial for outcomes. Currently, treatment decisions are made based on heart volume, which needs to be measured manually by the clinician each time using ultrasound. Alternatively, implantable sensors offer a real‐time window into the dynamic function of our body. Here it is shown that a soft flexible sensor, made with biocompatible materials, implanted on the surface of the heart, can provide continuous information of the heart volume after surgery. The sensor works robustly for a period of two days on a tensile machine. The accuracy of measuring heart volume is improved compared to the clinical gold standard in vivo, with an error of 7.1 mL for the strain sensor versus impedance and 14.0 mL versus ultrasound. Implanting such a sensor would provide essential, continuous information on heart volume in the critical time following the surgery, allowing early identification of complications, facilitating treatment, and hence potentially improving patient outcome.
Simultaneous integrated boost of intensity‐modulated radiation therapy to Stage II‐III non‐small cell lung cancer with metastatic lymph nodes
Authors: Li Qing‐Song , Liang Na , Ouyang Wei‐Wei , Su Sheng‐Fa , Ma Zhu , Geng Yi‐Chao , Yang Wen‐Gang , Hu Yin‐Xiang , Li Hui‐Qin , Lu Bing
Published: September 2020

Local tumor failure remains a major problem after radiation‐based nonsurgical treatment for unresectable locally advanced nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC）and inoperable stage II NSCLC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of simultaneous integrated boost of intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (SIB‐IMRT) to stage II‐III NSCLC with metastatic lymph nodes (ChiCTR 2000029304). Patients were diagnosed by pathology or PET‐CT. PTV was divided into two parts as follows, the PTV of primary tumor (PTVp) and the PTV of metastatic lymph nodes (PTVn). The radiotherapy doses were simultaneously prescripted 78 Gy (BED = 101.48 Gy) for PTVp and 60‐65 Gy (BED = 73.6‐81.25 Gy) for PTVn, 26f/5.2 weeks. Response was scored according to WHO criteria. Radiotherapy toxicity was scored according to RTOG criteria. Hematology and gastrointestinal toxicity were scored according to CTCAE1.0 criteria. A total of 20 patients were enrolled. Seventeen patients were diagnosed by pathology and three patients were diagnosed by PET‐CT. All patients were treated with SIB‐IMRT. The objective response rate (ORR) was 90%, with CR 25%, PR 65%, NC 10%, and PD 0%. Although radiotherapy toxicity was common, there were no grade ≥3, with radiation pneumonitis (10 cases), esophagitis (17 cases), and dermatitis (12 cases). The local control rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 85%, 75%, and 70%, respectively. The overall survival（OS）and local progression‐free survival (LPFS) rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 90%, 42.6%, and 35.5% and 84.4%, 35.5%, and 28.4%, respectively. SIB‐IMRT can significantly improve ORR and survival for stage II‐III NSCLC with metastatic lymph nodes, with high safety, and satisfactory efficacy. However, due to the limitation of small sample, these findings are needed to confirm by future trials with a larger sample size.
Foetal haemodynamic response to anaemia
Authors: Thammavong Keooudone , Luewan Suchaya , Jatavan Phudit , Tongsong Theera
Published: September 2020

This study aims to update new knowledge regarding foetal cardiovascular response to anaemia, using foetal haemoglobin Bart's disease as a study model. Original research articles, review articles, and guidelines were narratively reviewed and comprehensively validated. The main foetal cardiovascular changes in response to anaemia are consequences of hypervolaemia and increased cardiac output to meet tissue oxygen requirement. New challenging insights are as follows: (i) the earliest morphological change is an increase in cardiac size and remodelling of the sphericity (an increase in diameter more pronounced than that in long axis) followed by several markers, such as placentomegaly and hepatosplenomegaly. (ii) The earliest functional change is increased peak systolic velocity of the red blood cells because of low viscosity, especially in the middle cerebral artery. (iii) The foetal heart has very high reserve potentials to cope with anaemia: increasing workload without increased central venous pressure and increased myocardial performance without compromising shortening fraction. This hard‐working period with good performance lasts long, including most part of the second and third trimester. (iv) At the time cardiomegaly myocardial cellular damage has already occurred, in spite of good cardiac function. (v) Anaemic hydrops foetalis is mainly due to hypervolaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, and high vascular permeability, not heart failure. (vi) Foetal heart failure occurs only when the adaptive mechanism becomes exhausted or long after the development of anaemic hydrops foetalis. Heart failure is a very late result of a longstanding overworked heart. (vii) Ultrasound is highly effective in the detection of foetal response to anaemia. An increase in cardiac size and middle cerebral artery is very helpful in predicting the affected foetuses in pre‐hydropic phase. (viii) Theoretically, intrauterine treatment of anaemic hydrops results in satisfactory outcomes as long as cardiac function is normal, but intrauterine intervention should be strongly considered in pre‐hydropic phase because myocardial cell damage could have already occurred in this phase or early hydropic phase. Anaemic hydrops foetalis is not primarily caused by heart failure as commonly advocated, but it is rather a consequence of hypervolaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, and high vascular permeability while heart failure is a very late consequence of a longstanding overworked heart. New insights gained from this review may be useful to base clinical practice on which sonographic markers imply significant pathological changes, how ultrasound can be helpful in early detection of anaemic response, when intrauterine transfusion for anaemia due to non‐lethal causes should be administered, etc.
Cell type‐specific evaluation ofADGRG1/GPR56function in developmental central nervous system myelination
Authors: Chiou Brian , Gao Chuang , Giera Stefanie , Folts Christopher J. , Kishore Priya , Yu Diankun , Oak Hayeon C. , Jiang Rongcai , Piao Xianhua
Published: September 2020

Myelination of axons in the central nervous system (CNS) is a concerted effort between many cell types, resulting in significant cross‐talk and communication among cells. Adhesion G protein‐coupled receptor ADGRG1 (GPR56) is expressed in all major glial cells and regulates a wide variety of physiological processes by mediating cell–cell and cell–matrix communications. Previous literature has demonstrated the requirement of ADGRG1 in oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) during developmental myelination. However, it is unknown if ADGRG1 is responsible for myelin formation in a cell‐type‐specific manner. To that end, here we profiled myelin status in response to deletion ofAdgrg1specifically in OPCs, microglia, astrocytes, and neurons. Interestingly, we find that knocking outAdgrg1in OPCs significantly decreases OPC proliferation and reduced number of myelinated axons. However, deletingAdgrg1in microglia, astrocytes, and neurons does not impact developmental myelination. These data support an autonomous functional role forAdgrg1in OPCs related to myelination.
Innovative initiative for effective operation and monitoring using HEC‐RAS modelling of Hakra Branch Canal System, Pakistan*
Authors: Kamran Muhammad , Yousaf Wasif , Rajapakse R.L.H.L. , Kareem Awan Wakas , Riaz Muhammad , Asif Nayyar Minhaj , Umar Muhammad , Shah Usman Tehsin
Published: September 2020

The Punjab Irrigation System is one of the world's largest contiguous systems, with its entire network extending over nearly 31,000 km in length. The system faces numerous constraints that limit the canal operations and their respective design discharges. Shortage of irrigation water is a contest that normally occurs at canal tail‐end users. The hydraulic performance of open canal networks is not easy to assess; therefore, it is impossible to feed the lateral offtakes with their design shares without changing designed or existing gate openings. To overcome these problems, a Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System (HEC‐RAS) model has been developed to simulate the flow situation in the canal system. For this study, the Hakra Branch Canal System with a command area of 1.4 million hectares was selected. To recognize model performance, water levels at the head of the canal and tail discharge have been compared with field data. The simulated results show the best‐fit match with field head water levels with coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.765 and 0.877 and tail discharges of the canal with R2 = 0.707 and 0.945, for calibration and validation periods, respectively. The hydraulic simulation model is a useful tool for effective canal operation to determine the losses and find out the expected discharge for the tail‐end users. It has been observed that the proportion of excess actual delivery of water to lateral offtakes results in inadequate water supply for the tail‐end users. It is recommended that during the observation of the seasonally discharge table, the irrigation engineer should adjust a factor either in the HEC‐RAS model or in the observed data. It is also recommended to develop an unsteady model for considering sediment transport.
Variability in Parenteral Nutrition Use in US Children's Hospitals
Authors: Pettit Robert John , Pruitt Liese C.C. , Iantorno Stephanie , Bucher Brian T.
Published: September 2020

Background

The variability of parenteral nutrition (PN) use for pediatric inpatients is currently unknown. In this
study, we aim to determine the variability in PN use in US children's hospitals and the association of PN initiation with inpatient PN use.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of children who received PN during an inpatient encounter in US children's hospitals. Hospitals were divided into tertiles based on their rates of PN use: low (<36.9 of 1000 encounters), medium (36.9–51.8 of 1000 encounters), and high (>51.8 of 1000 encounters). Multivariable regression models were developed to assess the associations between hospital PN use and time to PN initiation, PN duration, and encounter length of stay after adjustment for salient patient characteristics.

Results

The cohort included 82,142 patients receiving PN, and rates of hospital PN use ranged from 5.9 to 76.7 patients receiving PN per 1000 inpatient encounters. After multivariable adjustment, patients treated at high‐use hospitals had a significantly shorter time to initiation of PN compared with low‐use hospitals (incident rate ratio [95% CI]: 0.78 [0.69–0.89]; P < .001). There was no significant association between low‐ and medium‐ or high‐use hospitals regarding PN duration or hospital length of stay.

Conclusion

Large variation in PN use exists among US children's hospitals. High‐use hospitals are more likely to start PN earlier but do not have longer PN duration or encounter length of stay. This variability makes PN use an ideal target for hospital quality improvement efforts to improve adherence to PN evidence‐based guidelines.
Fabrication and characteristics of self‐aggregation nanoparticles used for conformance control treatment
Authors: He Jie , Shao Minglu , Yue Xiangan , Yue Tianqi
Published: September 2020

In order to alleviate the contradiction between injectability of the profile control agent and its profile control performance, a novel core‐shell heterogeneous structure colloidal particles (CSA) were synthesized, and the mechanism of self‐aggregation plugging was proposed. Cross‐linking inside the nanoparticles and chain‐growth polymerization via capturing acrylamide in the aqueous phase result in the formation of core‐shell heterogeneous structures as proved by TEM observation and XPS analysis. Moreover, CSA nanoparticles exhibit good hydrophilic properties, outstanding thermal stability and limited expansion capacity. Effects of different metal cations and surface group on the self‐aggregation time of CSA nanoparticles were systematically studied. Results showed that divalent cations contributed to more significant aggregation of CSA nanoparticles in comparison to monovalent cations. The increasing cations concentration and valency decreased the thickness of electric double layer, which lead to a decrease in the zeta potential. Core flooding test shows that the injection of nanoparticles which diameter is much smaller that of pore‐throats into the target reservoir can not only successfully enter the depth of porous media, but also effectively block the high permeability areas by the formation of self‐aggregation particle clusters. This study provides a new method for the equilibrium between nanoparticles injectivity and in‐depth profile control of nanoparticles.
Telomerase RNA processing: Implications for human health and disease
Authors: Nagpal Neha , Agarwal Suneet
Published: September 2020

Telomeres are composed of repetitive DNA sequences that are replenished by the enzyme telomerase to maintain the self-renewal capacity of stem cells. The RNA component of human telomerase (TERC) is the essential template for repeat addition by the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), and also serves as a scaffold for several factors comprising the telomerase ribonucleoprotein (RNP). Unique features of TERC regulation and function have been informed not only through biochemical studies but also through human genetics. Disease-causing mutations impact TERC biogenesis at several levels including RNA transcription, post-transcriptional processing, folding, RNP assembly, and trafficking. Defects in TERC reduce telomerase activity and impair telomere maintenance, thereby causing a spectrum of degenerative diseases called telomere biology disorders (TBDs). Deciphering mechanisms of TERC dysregulation have led to a broader understanding of noncoding RNA biology, and more recently points to new therapeutic strategies for TBDs. In this review, we summarize over two decades of work revealing mechanisms of human telomerase RNA biogenesis, and how its disruption causes human diseases.
Vibration analysis of multi walled piezoelectric nanoresonator conveying fluid flow: Influences of surface/interface energy and walled number effects
Authors: Kachapi Sayyid H. Hashemi
Published: September 2020

In current work, the surface/interface parameters effects and walled number of fluid‐conveying multi walled piezoelectric nanoresonator (FC‐MWPENR) are investigated on dimensionless natural frequency (DNF) with considering viscous fluid velocity. The mentioned nanostructures (FC‐MWPENR) are subjected to nonlinear electrostatic excitation, nonlinear van der Waals interaction and also viscoelastic foundation. For this aim, Hamilton's approach, the Lagrange–Euler's and the assumed mode methods are used. The influences of FC‐MWPENR walled number are considered for analysis of dimensionless natural frequency respect to the surface/interface effect such as Lame's constants (, residual stress (, piezoelectric constants (), and mass density (.
The distances measurement problem for an underwater robotic swarm: a semi-experimental trial, using power LEDs, in unknown sea water conditions
Authors: dell’Erba Ramiro
Published: September 2020

In a preceding paper, we have showed as swarm robotics displacement can be related to the deformation of a continuum material, discretized by a lattice network representing the swarm. To reach this aim, it is fundamental to know the swarm configuration, i.e., its shape; this can be computed from the knowledge of the relative distances between its elements and it is studied as a geometry distances problem. Typically, ultrasonic devices are employed to measure the distances. We propose a method based on light signal exchanged between the machines and the computing of the unknown water adsorption coefficient and distance. Aim of this paper is, therefore, to measure distances between underwater elements of the swarm using cheap power LEDs as light source and photodiode as receiver. The receiving photodiode produces a current we can correlate with distance and water adsorption coefficient; we can be able to estimate the two unknown parameters by moving the robots and stressing the emission conditions of the LED diode. Actual work is based on a previous paper where we stressed work conditions of a power LED in shallow water to change its emission characteristics; now, using these results, we can now perform a set of measurements leading to the knowledge of distances d and adsorption coefficient $$a(\lambda ). $$

a
(
λ
)
.

The method we propose here can be a possible support to traditional ultrasonic devices
New Riemannian manifolds with Lp-unbounded Riesz transform for p > 2
Authors: Amenta Alex
Published: September 2020

We construct a large class of Riemannian manifolds of arbitrary dimension with Riesz transform unbounded on $$L^p(M)$$

L
p

(
M
)

for all $$p > 2$$

p
>
2

. This extends recent results for Vicsek manifolds, and in particular shows that fractal structure is not necessary for this property.
On Lipschitz Continuity of Projections onto Polyhedral Moving Sets
Authors: Bednarczuk Ewa M. , Rutkowski Krzysztof E.
Published: September 2020

In Hilbert space setting we prove local lipchitzness of projections onto parametric polyhedral sets represented as solutions to systems of inequalities and equations with parameters appearing both in left- and right-hand sides of the constraints. In deriving main results we assume that data are locally Lipschitz functions of parameter and the relaxed constant rank constraint qualification condition is satisfied.
War surgery in Afghanistan: a model for mass causalities in terror attacks?
Authors: Wichlas F. , Hofmann V. , Strada G. , Deininger C.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to identify solution strategies from a non-governmental (NGO) hospital in a war region for violence-related injuries and to show how high-income countries (HIC) might benefit from this expertise.

Methods

NGO trauma hospital in Lashkar Gah, Afghanistan. Four hundred eighty-four war victims admitted in a three month period (February 2016–May 2016) were included. Patients´ characteristics were analyzed.

Results

The mean age was 23.5 years. Four hundred thirty-four (89.9%) were male, and 50 (10.1%) were female. The most common cause of injury was bullet injuries, shell injuries, and mine injuries. The most common injured body region was the lower extremity, upper extremity, and the chest or the face. Apart from surgical wound care and debridements, which were performed on every wound in the operation theatre, laparotomy was the most common surgical procedure, followed by installation of a chest drainage and amputation.

Conclusion

The surgical expertise and clear pathways outweigh modern infrastructure. In case of a mass casualty incident, fast decision-making with basic diagnostic means in order to take rapid measurements for life-saving therapies could make the difference.
Timely Care is Patient‐Centered Care for Patients with Acute Cholecystitis at a Safety‐Net Hospital
Authors: Hatton Gabrielle E. , Mueck Krislynn M. , Leal Isabel M. , Wei Shuyan , Ko Tien C. , Kao Lillian S.
Published: September 2020

Background

Multiple strategies exist to improve the timeliness and efficiency of surgical care at safety‐net hospitals (SNH), such as acute care surgery models and nighttime surgery. However, the patient‐centeredness of such approaches is unknown.

Methods

Adults ( ≥18 years) with acute cholecystitis were interviewed upon admission to a SNH. Interviews were semi‐structured and designed to obtain both exploratory qualitative data and ratings of patient‐centered outcomes, ranked by importance to the patient. Outcomes included for rating were general health, symptom status, quality of life, and return to prior functional status. Latent content analysis applying inductive coding methods were used to code and condense raw qualitative data from interview transcripts.

Results

Thematic saturation was reached with a sample size of 15 patients. Most participants were female (87%), Hispanic (87%), and had prior diagnosis of benign biliary disease (60%). Patients identified symptom resolution as the highest‐ranked outcome in their treatment. Themes expressed by patients during the exploratory segments of the interview included: desire for pain alleviation, frustration with delays to both symptom resolution and surgical intervention, lack of perceived control over their health care, and reticence in discussing preferences with physicians. All patients preferred to have surgical treatment as soon as possible, even if that meant having nighttime surgery.

Conclusions

Effective and timely resolution of symptoms is of utmost importance to patients with acute cholecystitis at a SNH. Efforts to improve timeliness of surgical care are also perceived as patient‐centered.
Variables influencing executive functioning in preschool hearing-impaired children implanted within 24 months of age: an observational cohort study
Authors: Nicastri Maria , Giallini Ilaria , Amicucci Martina , Mariani Laura , de Vincentiis Marco , Greco Antonio , Guerzoni Letizia , Cuda Domenico , Ruoppolo Giovanni , Mancini Patrizia
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Executive Functions (EFs) are fundamental to every aspect of life. The present study was implemented to evaluate factors influencing their development in a group of preschools orally educated profoundly deaf children of hearing parents, who received CI within 2 years of age.

Methods

Twenty-five preschool CI children were tested using the Battery for Assessment of Executive Functions (BAFE) to assess their flexibility, inhibition, and non-verbal visuo-spatial working memory skills. The percentage of children performing in normal range was reported for each of the EF subtests. Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis were performed to assess differences between gender, listening mode, and degree of parents’ education subgroups. The Spearman Rank Correlation Coefficient was calculated to investigate the relationship between EF scores of audiological and linguistic variables.

Results

Percentages ranging from 76 to 92% of the children reached adequate EF scores at BAFE. Significant relations (p < 0.05) were found between EFs and early intervention, listening, and linguistic skills. Furthermore, CI children from families with higher education level performed better at the response shifting, inhibitory control, and attention flexibility tasks. Economic income correlated significantly with flexibility and inhibitory skills. Females performed better than males only in the attention flexibility task.

Conclusions

The present study is one of the first to focus attention on the development of EFs in preschool CI children, providing an initial understanding of the characteristics of EFs at the age when these skills emerge. Clinical practice must pay increasing attention to these aspects which are becoming the new emerging challenge of rehabilitation programs.
Managing disorders of consciousness: the role of electroencephalography
Authors: Bai Yang , Lin Yajun , Ziemann Ulf
Published: September 2020

Disorders of consciousness (DOC) are an important but still underexplored entity in neurology. Novel electroencephalography (EEG) measures are currently being employed for improving diagnostic classification, estimating prognosis and supporting medicolegal decision-making in DOC patients. However, complex recording protocols, a confusing variety of EEG measures, and complicated analysis algorithms create roadblocks against broad application. We conducted a systematic review based on English-language studies in PubMed, Medline and Web of Science databases. The review structures the available knowledge based on EEG measures and analysis principles, and aims at promoting its translation into clinical management of DOC patients.
Comparison of two extended depth of focus intraocular lenses with a monofocal lens: a multi-centre randomised trial
Authors: Reinhard Thomas , Maier Philip , Böhringer Daniel , Bertelmann Eckart , Brockmann Tobias , Kiraly Laszlo , Salom David , Piovella Matteo , Colonval Stephane , Mendicute Javier
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The AT LARA 829MP is a next-generation extended depth of focus (EDOF) intraocular lens (IOL) providing continuous vision over a range of distances. The aim of this prospective multi-centre randomised trial was to compare two EDOF IOLs and one monofocal IOL.

Methods

Cataract patients between 50 and 80 years were randomised for bilateral implantation with either the AT LARA 829MP (EDOF), the TECNIS Symfony (EDOF) or the CT ASPHINA 409MP (monofocal). Follow-up was at 1 to 2 weeks, 1 month and 4 to 6 months.

Results

A total of 211 patients were randomised and included in the final analysis. Monocular depth of focus was significantly better for AT LARA 829MP eyes compared with that for TECNIS Symfony at all thresholds (p = 0.024, 0.001 and 0.006, for 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 logMAR respectively) with no significant difference for binocular depth of focus. LARA eyes had significantly better monocular depth of focus at all levels compared with ASPHINA eyes (all p < 0.0001), while there was no significant difference between Symfony and ASPHINA eyes at 0.1 logMAR and 0.2 logMAR. Both EDOF IOLs were significantly better than the monofocal ASPHINA at all levels for binocular depth of focus (LARA: all p < 0.0001; Symfony: all p = 0.002). Distance visual acuity was similar for all IOLs at 6 months; intermediate and near visual acuity were significantly better for the EDOF IOLs than for the monofocal (p < 0.0001). Refraction improved in all groups relative to baseline. Contrast sensitivity was higher with the CT ASPHINA 409MP but both EDOF lenses had a better spectacle independence rate. At 6 months, all IOLs were well centred with no cases of tilt. No general safety issues were raised for any of the groups.

Conclusion

The two EDOF intraocular lenses investigated provided good visual outcomes with comparable visual acuity at all distances. The AT LARA 829MP provided the widest monocular depth of focus at 0.1 and 0.2 logMAR, with a clear superiority compared with the monofocal IOL. TECNIS Symfony was superior to the monofocal control at 0.3 logMAR. Spectacle independence and patient satisfaction were comparable.

Trial registration

Trial registered on https://clinicaltrials.gov/ under the identification NCT03172351 (date of registration 1 June May 2017).
Efficient analysis of dense fiber reinforcement using a reduced embedded formulation
Authors: Goudarzi M. , Geijselaers H. J. M. , Akkerman R.
Published: September 2020

In this paper we alleviate limitations of the conventional embedded reinforcement formulation for applications with dense fiber contents. We demonstrate that by condensing the fiber degrees of freedom during the assembly stage, the condition number of the resultant stiffness matrix is effectively reduced and the use of iterative solvers is facilitated even without preconditioning. Numerical benchmarks consisting of very large numbers of high aspect ratio discrete fibers are performed, and major advantages are reported in terms of the computational efficiency of the solution method. We apply the solution method to a set of examples in the modeling of the fiber reinforced composites, specifically the estimation of the homogenized mechanical properties of the discontinuous fiber composites and modeling of the compression molding process. In the latter case, a specimen containing more than 2 million discrete fibers is analyzed.
Stochastic assessment of the effect of land-use change on nonpoint source-driven groundwater quality using an efficient scaling approach
Authors: Henri Christopher V. , Harter Thomas , Diamantopoulos Efstathios
Published: September 2020

Assessing the impact of a land-use change (LUC) or change in land-use management on nonpoint source-driven groundwater quality in heterogeneous aquifers requires complex analysis. Stochastic methods have been used to account for prediction uncertainty but at high computational cost, which significantly limits the application of these approaches. As an efficient alternative, this study evaluates the application of a meta-analytical solution for evaluating the change in contaminant breakthrough curves at extraction wells in response to LUC. The solution uses the concentration percentiles from a reference stochastic simulation of water flow and solute transport in a groundwater system, assuming a reference land-use distribution pattern. Reference land-use controls the spatially variable rates of both, recharge and contaminant mass loading. The effect of a LUC is evaluated by scaling the ratio between the reference and the new (post-LUC) average input concentrations. The validity of the proposed meta-analysis tool is tested by comparing the results of the meta-analytical solution with those from a full stochastic simulation of the post-LUC scenario. Simulation results show that the accuracy of the meta-analytical solution is best when the regional average recharge rates for both pre- and post-LUC remain approximately unchanged, for any change in contaminant mass loading. Results also indicate that changes in spatial variability and pattern of the recharge rate do not significantly impact the flow field, travel times, and resulting concentrations, if the magnitude of local recharge remains about the same. Lastly, the results show large variability among wells of (and—for an individual well—uncertainty about) the time lag between the time of LUC and the time of consequential effective change in concentrations across wells in the affected region, captured here using statistical metrics.
The effect of mycorrhizal seed treatments on rice growth, yield, and tolerance to insect herbivores
Authors: Bernaola Lina , Stout Michael J.
Published: September 2020

Associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi can increase or decrease plant resistance to herbivory in different crop systems, but the effects of AM fungi on plant tolerance to pests remain largely unknown. We investigated whether inoculation of rice (Oryza sativa) with AM fungi stimulates plant growth, yield, and/or tolerance to rice water weevil (Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus) injury. Rice plants were exposed to natural infestations of herbivores during early and mid-to-late season over four field experiments. The experiments followed a 2 × 2 factorial design consisting of two AM fungi seed treatments (inoculated or non-inoculated with AM fungi) and two insecticide seed treatments (treated or untreated). Inoculation with AM fungi increased root colonization in all four field experiments in rice. Inoculation with AM fungi increased densities of weevil larvae and whiteheads resulting from stemborer infestations, while insecticidal seed treatments significantly reduced densities of weevils and marginally reduced whiteheads. Inoculation with AM fungi increased rice biomass before and after flooding, and a clear but not always significant increase in yield was observed in plants inoculated with AM fungi. However, inoculation with AM fungi did not reduce percent yield losses after herbivory injury. Analyses of nutrient contents in roots and shoots revealed inconsistent effects of inoculation with AM fungi. This study highlights for the first time the potential for AM fungi seed treatments to increase rice tolerance to insect pests by influencing plant biomass and yields.
Drainage of high-consistency fiber-laden aqueous foams
Authors: Koponen Antti I. , Timofeev Oleg , Jäsberg Ari , Kiiskinen Harri
Published: September 2020

Lightweight lignocellulosic fibrous materials (LLFMs) offer a sustainable and biodegradable alternative in many applications. Enthusiastic interest in these materials has recently grown together with the newly risen interest in foam forming. Foam bubbles restrain fiber flocculation, and foam formed structures have high uniformity. Moreover, the bubbles support the fibrous structure during manufacturing enabling the formation of highly porous structures. Mechanical pressure cannot be applied in the manufacture of LLFMs as the materials would lose their porous structure. Water is therefore typically removed by a combination of drainage and thermal drying. Thermal drying of porous materials has been studied intensively. However, there are only a few studies on the drainage of fiber-laden foams. Thus, in this work, we conducted a systematic analysis of this topic. Our findings show that after drainage a stationary vertical moisture profile similar to that of pure foams is developed. Raising the initial fiber consistency was found to increase the final fiber consistency of the foam until the drainage ceased. Increasing mold height was found to increase the final consistency considerably. Without vacuum and heating, the shrinkage of samples during drainage was only slightly higher than the volume of the drained water. Drainage rate and final consistency increased clearly with increasing vacuum, but simultaneously sample shrinkage increased considerably. The best compromise was obtained with a vacuum of 0.5 kPa, which increased the final consistency by 60% without extra shrinkage. Using warm foam and heating the foam during drainage increased the final consistency considerably, but this also led to significant shrinkage of the sample.
Foreign Language Attainment of Children/Adolescents with Poor Literacy Skills: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: von Hagen Alexa , Kohnen Saskia , Stadie Nicole
Published: September 2020

This systematic review investigated how successful children/adolescents with poor literacy skills learn a foreign language compared with their peers with typical literacy skills. Moreover, we explored whether specific characteristics related to participants, foreign language instruction, and assessment moderated scores on foreign language tests in this population. Overall, 16 studies with a total of 968 participants (poor reader/spellers: n = 404; control participants: n = 564) met eligibility criteria. Only studies focusing on English as a foreign language were available. Available data allowed for meta-analyses on 10 different measures of foreign language attainment. In addition to standard mean differences (SMDs), we computed natural logarithms of the ratio of coefficients of variation (CVRs) to capture individual variability between participant groups. Significant between-study heterogeneity, which could not be explained by moderator analyses, limited the interpretation of results. Although children/adolescents with poor literacy skills on average showed lower scores on foreign language phonological awareness, letter knowledge, and reading comprehension measures, their performance varied significantly more than that of control participants. Thus, it remains unclear to what extent group differences between the foreign language scores of children/adolescents with poor and typical literacy skills are representative of individual poor readers/spellers. Taken together, our results indicate that foreign language skills in children/adolescents with poor literacy skills are highly variable. We discuss the limitations of past research that can guide future steps toward a better understanding of individual differences in foreign language attainment of children/adolescents with poor literacy skills.
Developmental phenomenology: examples from social cognition
Authors: Vincini Stefano , Gallagher Shaun
Published: September 2020

We explore relationships between phenomenology and developmental psychology through an in-depth analysis of a particular problem in social cognition: the most fundamental access to other minds. In the first part of the paper, we examine how developmental science can benefit phenomenology. We explicate the connection between cognitive psychology and developmental phenomenology as a form of constructive phenomenological psychology. Nativism in contemporary science constitutes a strong impulse to conceive of the possibility of an innate ability to perceive others’ mental states, an idea which also has a transcendental implication. In the second part, we consider how phenomenology can contribute to developmental science. Phenomenology can go beyond the necessary evaluation and reinterpretation of experimental results. Some phenomenological notions and theories can be put forward on a par with alternative cognitive-psychological models and compete with them on grounds of empirical adequacy. For example, Husserl and Merleau-Ponty’s notion of pairing can constitute a viable account of how infants access other minds. We outline a number of ways in which this account can be tested and can thus contribute to generating empirical knowledge.