bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic metroplasty for unicornuate uterus with a functional noncommunicating rudimentary horn
Authors: Zhang Ying , Liu Songping , Zhang Xuyin , Ding Yan , Hua Keqin
Published: December 2019

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of laparoscopic metroplasty for the treatment of unicornuate uterus with a functional noncommunicating rudimentary horn.

Methods

Laparoscopic metroplasty was performed in one patient using traditional laparoscopy and four patients using robot‐assisted laparoscopy from December 2013 to December 2017 at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University. The records of the five patients were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

In all five patients the unicornuate uterus and functional noncommunicating rudimentary horn were unified into a single cavity without intraoperative or postoperative complications. Average operative time was 281 minutes (range, 204–330 minutes) and average blood loss was 180 mL (range, 100–300 mL). Postoperative hospital stay was 7 days (range, 5–11 days) and there was no re‐admission. All patients were relieved of pain and had regular menstruation after surgery. Average follow‐up time was 44 months (range, 22–70 months). One patient conceived by in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer 2 years after the operation and delivered twins by cesarean at 33 weeks.

Conclusion

Laparoscopic metroplasty, with or without robotic assistance, is an acceptable alternative to resection for a noncommunicating rudimentary horn with a functional endometrium.
Breast cancer diagnosis based on a new improved Elman neural network optimized by meta‐heuristics
Authors: Zheng Lili , Wang Guoxiang , Zhang Fenglei , Zhao Qingxue , Dai Chunlai , Yousefi Nasser
Published: December 2019

In this article, a new optimized method for diagnosing and analyzing breast cancer from the mammography images is presented. In this regard, preprocessing is used to remove the Gaussian noises that are used to happen in the mammography images and also to remove the additional areas. Then, image segmentation is performed on the images to determine the areas where the contrast material is perceptible. Afterward, combined feature extraction based on a discrete wavelet transform and gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix is proposed for extracting the important information fromthe images. Finally, a new classification model based on an improved Elman neural network (ENN) has been proposed. The ENN is optimized by an improvedversion of the collective animal behavior algorithm. Simulation results areimplemented to the Mammographic Image Analysis Society database and the resultsare compared with three different methods.
Effects of subsurface pipe drainage on soil salinity in saline‐sodic soil under mulched drip irrigation
Authors: Wang Zhenhua , Heng Tong , Li Wenhao , Zhang Jinzhu , Zhangzhong Lili
Published: December 2019

The increasing prevalence of alkali‐saline soil is a major challenge to the sustainable development of agriculture. In this study, a subsurface pipe drainage experiment using different pipe spacing (10, 15, 20 and 25 m) was conducted to reduce soil salinity. The results indicated that the salt content of the 0–80 cm soil layer decreased from 35 to 15 g kg‾¹ after being treated with subsurface pipe drainage. In contrast, the control treatment of ditch drainage had a limited effect on decreasing the soil salinity, the salt content remaining at 25–35 g kg‾¹. In total, 2030 m3 water and 280 t salt were drained during the experiment. Of the subsurface drainage pipe treatments (i.e. spacing at 10, 15, 20 and 25 m) 365, 672, 514 and 479 m3 water were drained, respectively, as well as 66.4, 102, 59.2 and 52.3 t salt, respectively. In addition, the average drainage rate achieved by subsurface drainage pipes was 1.64 m3 h‾¹ and the salt leaching intensity was 46.3 t hm‾2. The optimal pipe spacing for reducing soil salinity was 15 m, with an effective desalination rate reaching 65.8%. At this spacing, the average drainage rate was 2.87 m3 h‾¹ and the salt leaching intensity was 150 t hm‾2. Moreover, the survival rate of cotton at 15 m spacing exceeded 60%. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicological study of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles in zebrafish
Authors: Bai Changcun , Tang Meng
Published: December 2019

Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles have been widely used in catalytic, electronic and biomedical fields. It is necessary to investigate their toxicity and potential hazards to human and aquatic ecosystems. Zebrafish (Danio rerio), as a promising animal model, has been increasingly utilized to assess the toxicity of nanoparticles. Zebrafish has numerous characteristics for toxicity evaluation, such as short life cycle and high fecundity. This review describes the advantages of using zebrafish in the toxicity assessment of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles. Then we focus on the toxic effects, particularly the acute toxicity and the chronic ones, induced by nanoparticles in zebrafish. Target organ toxicities are also mentioned, including immunotoxicity, developmental toxicity, neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, cardiovascular toxicity and hepatotoxicity. The toxic effects of selected metal nanoparticles, including Au, Ag, Cu, and metal oxide nanoparticles such as TiO2, Al2O3, CuO, NiO and ZnO, as well as the underlying mechanisms of nanoparticles causing these effects, are also highlighted and described in detail. Furthermore, we introduce the general factors that affect nanoparticle‐induced toxicity in zebrafish. The drawbacks and advantages of using the zebrafish model in nanotoxicity studies are also argued. Finally, we suggest that the application of zebrafish to assess chronic toxicity of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles and the joint toxicity of metal and metal oxide nanoparticles and other pollutants could be hot topics in nanotoxicology.
Risk factors, changes in serum inflammatory factors, and clinical prevention and control measures for puerperal infection
Authors: Song Hongbi , Hu Keli , Du Xuyuan , Zhang Jiao , Zhao Shu
Published: December 2019

Background

To investigate the risk factors and changes in serum inflammatory factors in puerperal infection, and propose clinical prevention measures.

Methods

A total of 240 subjects with suspected puerperal infection treated in our hospital from January 2017 to December 2017 were collected, among which puerperal infection was definitely diagnosed in 40 cases, and it was excluded in 40 cases. Levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP) were compared between the two groups, and the change trends of IL‐6 and hs‐CRP were recorded.

Results

Levels of IL‐6, hs‐CRP, and TNF‐α in puerperal infection group were higher than those in non‐infection group (P < .05). Levels of IL‐6 and hs‐CRP at enrollment and 1‐3 days after enrollment in infection group were higher than those in non‐infection group (P < .05). The body mass index >25, placenta previa, placenta accreta, postpartum hemorrhage, premature rupture of membrane, gestational diabetes mellitus, and anemia during pregnancy were relevant and independent risk factors for puerperal infection. Puerperal infection occurred in uterine cavity, vagina, pelvic peritoneum, pelvic tissue, incision, urinary system, etc, and gram‐negative (G+) bacteria were dominated in pathogens.

Conclusion

The inflammatory response of patients with puerperal infection is significantly enhanced.
The development of cephalic armor in the tokay gecko (Squamata: Gekkonidae: Gekko gecko)
Authors: Laver Rebecca J. , Morales Cristian H. , Heinicke Matthew P. , Gamble Tony , Longoria Kristin , Bauer Aaron M. , Daza Juan D.
Published: December 2019

Armored skin resulting from the presence of bony dermal structures, osteoderms, is an exceptional phenotype in gekkotans (geckos and flap‐footed lizards) only known to occur in three genera: Geckolepis, Gekko, and Tarentola. The Tokay gecko (Gekko gecko LINNAEUS 1758) is among the best‐studied geckos due to its large size and wide range of occurrence, and although cranial dermal bone development has previously been investigated, details of osteoderm development along a size gradient remain less well‐known. Likewise, a comparative survey of additional species within the broader Gekko clade to determine the uniqueness of this trait has not yet been completed. Here, we studied a large sample of gekkotans (38 spp.), including 18 specimens of G. gecko, using X‐rays and high‐resolution computed tomography for visualizing and quantifying the dermal armor in situ. Results from this survey confirm the presence of osteoderms in a second species within this genus, Gekko reevesii GRAY 1831, which exhibits discordance in timing and pattern of osteoderm development when compared with its sister taxon, G. gecko. We discuss the developmental sequence of osteoderms in these two species and explore in detail the formation and functionality of these enigmatic dermal ossifications. Finally, we conducted a comparative analysis of endolymphatic sacs in a wide array of gekkotans to explore previous ideas regarding the role of osteoderms as calcium reservoirs. We found that G. gecko and other gecko species with osteoderms have highly enlarged endolymphatic sacs relative to their body size, when compared to species without osteoderms, which implies that these membranous structures might fulfill a major role of calcium storage even in species with osteoderms.
A novel framework for selecting general circulation models based on the spatial patterns of climate
Authors: Nashwan Mohamed Salem , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: December 2019

General circulation models (GCMs), used for climate change projections, should be able to simulate both the temporal variability and spatial patterns of the observed climate. However, the selection of GCMs in most previous studies was either based on temporal variability or mean spatial pattern of past climate. In this study, a framework is proposed for the selection of GCMs based on their ability to reproduce the spatial patterns for different climate variables. The Kling‐Gupta efficiency (KGE) was used to assess GCMs ability to simulate the annual spatial patterns of maximum and minimum temperatures (Tmx and Tmn, respectively) and rainfall depth. The mean and standard deviation of KGEs were used as performance indicators to present the GCMs' overall skill. Finally, the global performance indicator was used as a multi‐criteria decision‐making approach to integrate the results of different climate variables and seasons in order to rank the GCMs. Egypt was considered as a case study. The results revealed the better performance, in order, of the MRI‐CGCM3, followed by FGOALS‐g2, GFDL‐ESM2G, GFDL‐CM3 and lastly MPI‐ESM‐MR over Egypt. The final set of GCMs showed a similar spatial pattern for the projected change in temperature over Egypt. For different scenarios, Tmx was projected to increase in the range of 1.63–4.2°C while the increase in Tmn ranged between 1.28 and 4.43°C. A projected increase in temperature in winter is likely greater than in summer. The selected models also projected a 62% decrease in rainfall depth over the northern coastline where rain is currently most abundant while an increase in the dry southern zones. The rise in temperature and decrease in rainfall depth could have severe implications for a country with dwindling water resources.
In vitro evaluation of human myoblast function after exposure to cobalt and chromium ions
Authors: Laumonier Thomas , Ruffieux Etienne , Paccaud Joris , Kindler Vincent , Hannouche Didier
Published: December 2019

The replacement of a native hip joint by a metal‐on‐metal prosthesis may induce deleterious inflammatory side effects that are associated with the release of wear particles and metal ions. These events are referred to the adverse reaction to metal debris (ARMD) and the adverse local tissue reaction (ALTR). While wear particles seem involved in ARMD, the role of metal ions in ALTR and their impact on myoblasts, located in the prosthesis vicinity, has not been fully identified. To clarify this issue we investigated, using an in vitro culture system, the effect of cobalt and/or chromium ions (Co2+ and/or Cr3+) on human myoblast proliferation, cellular differentiation, and inflammatory marker expression. Freshly isolated human myoblasts were cultured in media supplemented with graded concentrations of Co2+ and/or Cr3+. Co2+ induced a concentration‐dependent decrease of both myoblast viability and myogenic differentiation while Cr3+ did not. Co2+ or Co2+/Cr3+ also induced the upregulation of ICAM‐1, whereas HLA‐DR expression was unaffected. Moreover, allogenic monocytes induced the synergistic increase of Co2+‐induced ICAM‐1 expression. We also found that Co2+ stabilized HIF‐1α and increased TLR4, tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), and interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) expression in a dose and time‐dependent manner in human myoblasts. This study showed that Co2+, but not Cr3+, was toxic toward myoblasts and induced, in the surviving cells, expression of inflammatory markers such as ICAM‐1, TLR4, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β. This suggests that Co2+, most efficiently in the presence of monocytes, may be a key inducer of ALTR, which may, if severe and long‐lasting, eventually result in prosthesis loosening.
Preparation and comparison of three zwitterionic stationary phases for hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography
Authors: Qiao Lizhen , Yu Chunmei , Sun Ruiting
Published: December 2019

Surface‐bonded zwitterionic stationary phases have shown highlighted performances in separation of polar and hydrophilic compounds under hydrophilic interaction chromatography mode. So, it would be helpful to evaluate the characteristics of zwitterionic stationary phases with different arranged charged groups. The present work involved the preparation and comparison of three zwitterionic stationary phases. An imidazolium ionic liquid was designed and synthesized, and the cationic and anionic moieties respectively possessed positively charged imidazolium ring and negatively charged sulfonic groups. Then, the prepared ionic liquid, phosphorylcholine and an imidazolium‐based zwitterionic selector were bonded on the surface of silica to obtain three zwitterionic stationary phases. The selectivity properties were characterized and compared through the relative retention of selected solute pairs, and different kinds of hydrophilic solutes mixtures were used to evaluate the chromatographic performances. Moreover, the zwitterionic stationary phases were further characterized by the modified linear solvation energy relationship model to probe the multiple interactions. All the results indicated that the types and arrangement of charged groups in zwitterionic stationary phases mainly affect the retention and separation of ionic or ionizable compounds, and for interaction characteristics the contribution from n and π electrons and electrostatic interactions displayed certain differences.
Progressive Scalp Thinning Over Mesh Cranioplasty and the Role of Lipotransfer
Authors: Wang Weitao , Vincent Aurora , Bahrami Arash , Shokri Tom , Inman Jared , Ducic Yadranko
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the role of lipotransfer in progressive scalp thinning following titanium mesh cranioplasty.

Methods

Retrospective review of single surgeon, single tertiary referral experience of all patients who underwent mesh cranioplasty. Patient demographics, prior radiotherapy, frequency and timing of scalp thinning, and treatment course data were obtained.

Results

A total of 144 patients were included, 77 male and 67 female with mean ages 58.2 and 54.8, respectively. One hundred four patients (72%) developed mesh exposure or impending exposure requiring reconstruction. Fifty‐six patients (54%) with scalp thinning were treated with lipotransfer, 40 of which were salvaged and the remainder of these patients definitively managed with cranioplasty and reconstruction. Prior radiotherapy was found to be associated with higher rates of mesh exposure (P = .0028), but not predictive of response to lipotransfer.

Conclusion

Lipotransfer is a useful technique in managing moderate scalp thinning following mesh cranioplasty. Mesh exposure or severe thinning require definitive cranioplasty and reconstruction.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 130: 1926–1931, 2020
Sparse non‐smooth atomic decomposition of Morrey spaces
Authors: Sawano Yoshihro
Published: December 2019

Recently, a non‐smooth atomic decomposition in Morrey spaces was obtained by the author, Iida and Tanaka. This note refines the above existing result using the notion of sparse families. As an application, we prove the equivalence between fractional integral operators and fractional maximal operators under the Morrey norm.
Automatic coronary artery plaque thickness comparison between baseline and follow‐up CCTA images
Authors: Cao Qing , Broersen Alexander , Kitslaar Pieter H. , Yuan Mingyuan , Lelieveldt Boudewijn P. F. , Dijkstra Jouke
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Currently, coronary plaque changes are manually compared between a baseline and follow‐up coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) images for long‐term coronary plaque development investigation. We propose an automatic method to measure the plaque thickness change over time.

Methods

We model the lumen and vessel wall for both the baseline coronary artery tree (CAT‐BL) and follow‐up coronary artery tree (CAT‐FU) as smooth three‐dimensional (3D) surfaces using a subdivision fitting scheme with the same coarse meshes by which the correspondence among these surface points is generated. Specifically, a rigid point set registration is used to transform the coarse mesh from the CAT‐FU to CAT‐BL. The plaque thickness and the thickness difference is calculated as the distance between corresponding surface points. To evaluate the registration accuracy, the average distance between manually defined markers on clinical scans is calculated. Artificial CAT‐BL and CAT‐FU pairs were created to simulate the plaque decrease and increase over time.

Results

For 116 pairs of markers from nine clinical scans, the average marker distance after registration was 0.95 ± 0.98 mm (two times the voxel size). On the 10 artificial pairs of datasets, the proposed method successfully located the plaque changes. The average of the calculated plaque thickness difference is the same as the corresponding created value (standard deviation ± 0.1 mm).

Conclusions

The proposed method automatically calculates local coronary plaque thickness differences over time and can be used for 3D visualization of plaque differences. The analysis and reporting of coronary plaque progression and regression will benefit from an automatic plaque thickness comparison.
AAPM Task Group 329: Reference dose specification for dose calculations: Dose‐to‐water or dose‐to‐muscle?
Authors: Kry Stephen F. , Feygelman Vladimir , Balter Peter , Knöös Tommy , Charlie Ma C.‐M. , Snyder Michael , Tonner Brian , Vassiliev Oleg N.
Published: December 2019

Linac calibration is done in water, but patients are comprised primarily of soft tissue. Conceptually, and specified in NRG/RTOG trials, dose should be reported as dose‐to‐muscle to describe the dose to the patient. Historically, the dose‐to‐water of the linac calibration was often converted to dose‐to‐muscle for patient calculations through manual application of a 0.99 dose‐to‐water to dose‐to‐muscle correction factor, applied during the linac clinical reference calibration. However, many current treatment planning system (TPS) dose calculation algorithms approximately provide dose‐to‐muscle (tissue), making application of a manual scaling unnecessary. There is little guidance on when application of a scaling factor is appropriate, resulting in highly inconsistent application of this scaling by the community. In this report we provide guidance on the steps necessary to go from the linac absorbed dose‐to‐water calibration to dose‐to‐muscle in patient, for various commercial TPS algorithms. If the TPS does not account for the difference between dose‐to‐water and dose‐to‐muscle, then TPS reference dose scaling is warranted. We have tabulated the major vendors' TPS in terms of whether they approximate dose‐to‐muscle or calculate dose‐to‐water and recommend the correction factor required to report dose‐to‐muscle directly from the TPS algorithm. Physicists should use this report to determine the applicable correction required for specifying the reference dose in their TPS to achieve this goal and should remain attentive to possible changes to their dose calculation algorithm in the future.
Feasibility study of navigated endoscopy for the placement of high dose rate brachytherapy applicators in the esophagus and lung
Authors: Weersink Robert A. , Qiu Jimmy , Martinez Diego , Rink Alexandra , Borg Jette , Di Tomasso Anne , Irish Jonathon C. , Jaffray David A.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the electromagnetic (EM) tracking of endoscopes and applicators as a method of positioning a high dose rate (HDR) luminal applicator.

Method

An anatomical phantom consisting of a rigid trachea and flexible esophagus was used to compare applicator placement measurements using EM tracking vs the traditional method using two‐dimensional (2D) fluoroscopy and surface skin markers. The phantom included a tumor in the esophagus and several pairs of optically visible points inside the lumen that were used to simulate proximal and distal ends of tumors of varying lengths. The esophagus tumor and lung points were visible on a computed tomography (CT) image of the phantom, which was used as ground truth for the measurements. The EM tracking system was registered to the CT image using fiducial markers. A flexible endoscope was tracked using the EM system and the locations of the proximal and distal ends of the tumor identified and this position recorded. An EM‐tracked applicator was then inserted and positioned relative to the tumor markings. The applicator path was mapped using the EM tracking. The gross tumor length (GTL) and the distance between the first dwell position and distal edge of tumor (offset) were measured using the EM tracking and 2D fluoroscopy methods and compared to the same measurements on the CT image.

Results

The errors in GTL using EM tracking were on average −0.5 ± 1.7 mm and 0.7 ± 3.6 mm for esophagus and lung measurements, similar to errors measured using the 2D fluoroscopy method of −0.9 ± 1.2 mm and 3.4 ± 4.4 mm. Offset measurements were slightly larger while using EM tracking relative to the fluoroscopy method but these were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Electromagnetic tracking for placement of lumen applicators is feasible and accurate. Tracking of the endoscope that is used to identify the proximal and distal ends of the tumor and of the applicator during insertion generates accurate three‐dimensional measurements of the applicator path, GTL and offset. Guiding the placement of intraluminal applicators using EM navigation is potentially attractive for cases with complex insertions, such as those with nonlinear paths or multiple applicator insertions.
Subcritical gas‐assisted processing of ethylene vinyl alcohol + nanoclay composites
Authors: Ellingham Thomas , Yilmaz Galip , Duddleston Lukas , Li Zhutong , Turng Lih‐Sheng
Published: December 2019

Ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) was melt compounded with an organomodified nanoclay (NC) at a loading level of 5% by weight in a twin‐screw extruder using a subcritical gas‐assisted process (SGAP). Carbon dioxide and nitrogen were used as blowing agents to induce foaming inside of the barrel of the extruder and as the melt exits the die. Samples processed with SGAP demonstrated better dispersion of NC vs the traditional extrusion process due to the additional stresses that bubble expansion provides during foaming. The dispersion was assessed by dynamic rheology, wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and microcomputed tomography. Additionally, it was found that the inert gasses used in SGAP prevented some of the thermo‐oxidative degradation EVOH experienced during processing, as evidenced by thermogravimetric analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
Allopathic (MD) and Osteopathic (DO) Performance on the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Initial Certifying Examinations
Authors: Sliwa James A. , Raddatz Mikaela M. , Kinney Carolyn L. , Clark Gary , Robinson Lawrence
Published: December 2019

Background

Osteopathic physicians (DOs) represent over 30% of residents in allopathic (MD) Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) training programs. However, some have questioned the quality of osteopathic medical school training and the graduates of osteopathic medical schools. The performance of osteopathic physicians in allopathic PM&R training programs has not been assessed.

Objective

To compare allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) physician performance on American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR) initial certifying examinations.

Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Board‐eligible PM&R physicians.

Participants

MDs and DOs who completed an allopathic ACGME‐accredited PM&R residency training program.

Methods

MD and DO pass rates and mean scaled scores on the ABPMR initial certifying examinations were compared. MD versus DO degrees and training program 6 years aggregate board pass rates were independent variables.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

MD and DO pass rates and mean scaled scores on the ABPMR initial certifying examinations.

Results

Of the 2187 physicians who were first‐time ABPMR initial certifying examination takers, there were 1596 MDs (73%) and 591 DOs (27%). No statistically significant difference was found in pass rates between MDs and DOs on Part I (94.9% vs. 93.9%, P = .35) or Part II (87.8% vs. 88%, P = .83) of the ABPMR certifying examination. Analysis of mean scaled scores demonstrated higher MD scores on both Part I ( 526, SD = 31, vs. 516, SD = 67, P = .002) and Part II ( 6.73, SD = .83 vs. 6.62, SD = .77, P = .005), significant only in programs with a 90%‐100% pass rate. These differences, however, were of very small magnitude and likely not meaningful from a clinical or educational perspective.

Conclusion

This study did not find meaningful differences in performance on the ABPMR certifying examinations between MDs and DOs.
Preferred Outcome Measures Used in Randomized Clinical Trials of Total Knee Replacement Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Blasco José M. , Acosta‐Ballester Yolanda , Igual‐Camacho Celedonia , Hernández‐Guillén David , Gómez María C. , Roig‐Casasús Sergio , Puigcerver‐Aranda Pablo
Published: December 2019

Objective

To determine the most frequently used outcome measures in total knee replacement rehabilitation trials.

Literature Survey

Systematic review of randomized trials searched in five databases: Web of Science, MEDical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, Scopus, and Cochrane Library.

Methodology

Trials were included if participants underwent total knee replacement rehabilitation and outcome measures were used to assess rehabilitation outcomes. A descriptive synthesis determined the frequency of using outcome measures and preferred assessment time points. Outcomes were classified into eight categories: patient‐ and clinician‐reported function, performance‐based function, balance, anxiety and depressive symptoms, quality of life, and others.

Synthesis

Eighty‐one trials were included and 102 different outcome measures were classified. The most frequently reported outcome was knee range of motion, used in 54% of trials, followed by a visual analog scale of pain (43%) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC; 40%). Patient‐ and clinician‐reported function were the categories most frequently assessed (74%), whereas performance‐based measures were implemented by 56% of trials. The most frequent assessment time points were 1 week presurgery (52%) and 3 months postsurgery (39%).

Conclusions

There is consensus regarding the need to evaluate functional outcomes in total knee replacement rehabilitation trials but none regarding the outcome measure that should be used. These findings suggest that most trials include patient‐ and clinician‐reported functional measures, along with pain and performance‐based measures in trial designs.
Group dynamics in a group‐based, individualized physiotherapy intervention for people with multiple sclerosis: A qualitative study
Authors: Lahelle Andreas Falck , Øberg Gunn Kristin , Normann Britt
Published: December 2019

Objective

Group‐based physiotherapy is a common and beneficial intervention for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Most group interventions are not individually adapted to each participant's needs. Evidence on how individualization and group elements can be combined in a clinical setting is lacking. The objective of this study is to expand the knowledge base in neurological physiotherapy by investigating the nature of group dynamics in a group‐based, individualized intervention for people with MS.

Methods

This qualitative study included 13 nonparticipatory video observations (14 hr 38 min) of GroupCoreDIST exercise sessions complemented by 13 interviews (12 hr 37 min) with physiotherapists (PTs). The purposively sampled participants included 40 patients with MS (expanded disability scale of 1.0–6.5) and six PTs with expertise in neurological physiotherapy. Data were analysed using systematic text condensation in an enactive theoretical framework.

Results

Two main categories emerged from the material. (a) Individual systems affect group dynamics: Individual perceptions of success through adapted and embodied approaches positively affected the dynamics of the group. (b) Disease and exercise peer support: Social support was a substantial product of dynamic group processes and was enhanced through the PTs' strategic focus on experience sharing.

Conclusion

The results revealed that group dynamics benefit from individualization and the PTs' focus on experience sharing. These findings are contrary to the prevailing view that individualization and group‐based interventions are mutually exclusive and thus should be considered in group‐based interventions for people with MS.
Circulatory and ventilatory power in diabetic patients: Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Santos‐de‐Araújo Aldair Darlan , Bassi‐Dibai Daniela , Veiga Thalita Pereira , Caruso Flávia Cristina Rossi , Mendes Renata Gonçalves , Júnior José Carlos Bonjorno , Arena Ross , Schwartzmann Pedro Vellosa , Simões Rodrigo Polaquini , Borghi‐Silva Audrey
Published: December 2019

Background

Circulatory (CP) and ventilatory power (VP) have been used to improve the prognostic accuracy of cardiopulmonary exercise tests in cardiovascular disease, such as coronary artery disease. However, the effects of combined resistance and aerobic exercise program on VP and CP, especially in type 2 diabetes patients, have not been adequately investigated. Thus, this new parameter can be useful to prescribe exercise programs more assertive for this population. The present study aimed to assess the effect of 3 months of combined resistance and aerobic exercise training (CET) on CP and VP in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 48 diabetic patients with an average age of 52.4 (±8.01) years old. The subjects were randomized into two groups: sedentary (SG, n = 15) and the CET group (n = 19). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (symptom‐limited incremental) was performed on a cycle ergometer, and the following parameters were measured: relative VO2, VE/VCO2 slope, linear relationship between oxygen uptake and minute ventilation, and VCO2. CET was performed with 30‐min aerobic and 30‐min resistance exercises three times a week for 12 weeks.

Results

Significant (p < .05) and clinical (d ≥ .80) differences were observed that favoured CET compared with SG for the following variables: heart rate, workload, VO2 relative peak, circulatory power peak, and VCO2 peak. Although no statistical difference was observed for ventilatory power, there was a clinical difference (p > .05 and d ≥ 0.80) that favoured CET.

Conclusion

Three months of combined exercise training improved VP and CP indices in patients with type 2 diabetes when compared with a sedentary group.
Everything is a “matter” of perspective: the Unruh effect
Authors: Rosabal J. A.
Published: December 2019

In this work we examine and extend the proposal of reference [1], concerning the new interpretation on the Unruh effect. The vacuum processes in Minkowski and Rindler space are described in detail, in connection with the observers perspective. We highlight the presence of antiparticles in the radiation, which is perhaps the main observation in the cited reference. We present a new derivation of the vacuum energy in Rindler space using the Schrödinger kernel. The quest for the Unruh radiation could be expanded by considering the possibility of detecting the antiparticles in it. A proposal for the experimental confirmation of the antiparticles in the radiation is presented.
A Note on the Swampland Distance Conjecture
Authors: Kehagias A. , Riotto A.
Published: December 2019

We discuss the Swampland Distance Conjecture in the framework of black hole thermodynamics. In particular, we consider black holes in de Sitter space and we show that the Swampland Distance Conjecture is a consequence of the fact that apparent horizons are always inside cosmic event horizons whenever they exist in the case of fast‐roll inflation. In addition, we show that the Bekenstein and the Hubble entropy bounds for the entropy in a region of spacetime lead similarly to the same conjecture.
Effect of packaging oxygen transmission rate on the shelf life of ready‐to‐heat foods susceptible to postcontamination during refrigerated and illuminated storage
Authors: Baele Maarten , Vermeulen An , Leloup Frédéric , Adons Dimitri , Peeters Roos , Devlieghere Frank , De Meulenaer Bruno , Ragaert Peter
Published: December 2019

Since more and more pressure is exerted to reduce the use of plastic packaging materials, optimizing the use of food packaging is opportune. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effect of packaging materials, spanning a range of oxygen transmission rates (OTR), and retail illumination, on the microbial shelf life and safety of refrigerated ready‐to‐heat foods. Cooked potato slices were packaged in OPA/PP bags with a high OTR (28.85 ccO2/m2/d) and OPA‐EVOH/PP bags with a low OTR (6.57 ccO2/m2/d). Cooked composite meals were packaged in tray and foil combinations, also spanning a range of OTR: PP trays (2.09 ccO2/tray/d) with OPA/PP foils (28.85 ccO2/m2/d), PP trays with OPA‐EVOH/PP (6.57 ccO2/m2/d) foils, and PET trays (0.07 ccO2/tray/d) with PET top foil (32.86 ccO2/m2/d) . The packages were stored in a dark environment, or under fluorescent or LED light. Due to the rapid growth of lactic acid bacteria, the microbial shelf life of both food products was largely unaffected by the type of barrier. Illumination at 1000 lux for 12 hours per day led to temperature differences significantly affecting microbial growth. Based on the results, it could be concluded that re‐evaluating packaging material choices for these foods may prove valuable, since the use of high‐barrier multilayer packaging materials may be considered as a case of overpackaging.
Rapid identification of polyamides using direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry
Authors: Abe Yutaka , Ackerman Luke K. , Mutsuga Motoh , Sato Kyoko , Begley Timothy H.
Published: December 2019

Rationale

Polyamide (PA) is the generic name of polymers synthesized by linking monomers via amide bonds, and various types of PAs with different monomer compositions are known. Distinguishing PA polymers is useful in directing monomer residual testing, product testing, and reverse engineering, but is analytically challenging and cumbersome. To simplify this, we explored the applicability of direct analysis in real time mass spectrometry (DART‐MS) for screening PA polymers.

Methods

A DART ion source coupled to a quadrupole Orbitrap (high‐resolution (HR) mass spectrometer) was employed for this study. Ten types of PA polymers and four retail samples were evaluated. The DART‐HRMS data for these samples, as well as the DART‐MS/MS (MS2) data for PA6 and PA66, were obtained, and their repeatability was assessed across days/calibrations, operators, and equipments.

Results

Ions corresponding to the cyclic or linear monomers and oligomers of each PA polymer were detected in each DART‐HR mass spectrum. Although similar DART‐HR mass spectra were obtained for PA6, PA66, and PA6/PA66 (polymer blends of PA6 and PA66), their DART tandem mass spectra were completely different. The analysis was repeatable, and nearly identical DART tandem mass spectra were obtained on different days, by different operators, and with different equipment. This technique was successfully applied to commercially available samples.

Conclusions

Ten types of PA polymers were distinguished using DART‐HRMS and DART‐MS2, and their identification using these techniques was straightforward as the characteristic ions for each PA polymer were identified and detected. Furthermore, the spectra were obtained rapidly. Therefore, DART‐HRMS can be considered an efficient screening technique for the rapid identification and differentiation of PA polymers.
Investigation of polymer‐based composites by laser desorption/ionization study of their photo‐oxidative aging
Authors: Aubriet Frédéric
Published: December 2019

Rationale

Polybutadiene (PB) is one of the most widely used polymers. Its aging occurs by reaction with oxygen under illumination and may modify its mechanical and/or aesthetic properties. To modify its properties, organic and/or inorganic compounds are generally added to PB. The aging of such composite materials is poorly known.

Methods

PB and its mixtures with TiO2 and/or the Orange 13 pigment are subjected to an accelerated photo‐oxidative aging step for one week. The analysis of PB and its composites with regard to their composition and the aging time is carried out by 266 nm and/or 355 nm laser desorption/ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (LDI‐FTICR‐MS).

Results

Both PB and its degradation products are detected by (+) LDI‐FTICR‐MS. The oxidation mechanism of PB is not significantly affected by the used organic or inorganic fillers, which results from the cleavage of the polymer chain and the formation of carbonyl compounds. The crosslinking of PB is significantly reduced by the two investigated fillers. Analysis in negative mode [(−) LDI‐FTICR‐MS] ensures the specific detection of the Orange 13 pigment.

Conclusions

LDI‐FTICR‐MS has demonstrated its ability to provide relevant information on the degradation of polymer‐based composites. The main advantages of this approach are its ability to probe the surface, which is specifically affected by photo‐oxidation aging processes, and to access the insoluble degradation compounds.
Event‐triggered finite‐time reliable control for nonhomogeneous Markovian jump systems
Authors: Gao Xiaobin , Deng Feiqi , Li Xiao‐Meng , Zhou Qi
Published: December 2019

This article investigates the event‐triggered finite‐time reliable control problem for a class of Markovian jump systems with time‐varying transition probabilities, time‐varying actuator faults, and time‐varying delays. First, a Luenberger observer is constructed to estimate the unmeasured system state. Second, by applying an event‐triggered strategy from observer to controller, the frequency of transmission is reduced. Third, based on linear matrix inequality technique and stochastic finite‐time analysis, event‐triggered observer‐based controllers are designed and sufficient conditions are given, which ensure the finite‐time boundedness of the closed‐loop system in an H∞ sense. Finally, an example is utilized to show the effectiveness of the proposed controller design approach.
Designing a Multi‐Sided Platform business model assessment framework: a Dynamic Performance Management perspective
Authors: Bivona Enzo , Cosenz Federico
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this research is to offer an assessment framework to validate multisided platform business models. For this aim, we propose a systemic perspective based on the dynamic performance management approach. This approach is particularly effective to make explicit the net of relationships between internal and external strategic resources, the value creation and capture drivers, and the way such drivers influence platform performances. The developed multisided platform business model assessment framework has been tested by using a success and a failure case, respectively, Airbnb and Take Eat Easy. Research originality results from the combination of multisided platform value creation/capture drivers and innovative approach like the dynamic performance management to assess platforms business models. Findings show that neglecting the role played by value creation and capture drivers and those cause‐and‐effect mechanisms aimed at leveraging critical internal and external strategic resources can lead to platform failure.
CH4 oxidation in a boreal lake during the development of hypolimnetic hypoxia
Authors: Saarela Taija , Rissanen Antti J. , Ojala Anne , Pumpanen Jukka , Aalto Sanni L. , Tiirola Marja , Vesala Timo , Jäntti Helena
Published: December 2019

Freshwater ecosystems represent a significant natural source of methane (CH4). CH4 produced through anaerobic decomposition of organic matter (OM) in lake sediment and water column can be either oxidized to carbon dioxide (CO2) by methanotrophic microbes or emitted to the atmosphere. While the role of CH4 oxidation as a CH4 sink is widely accepted, neither the magnitude nor the drivers behind CH4 oxidation are well constrained. In this study, we aimed to gain more specific insight into CH4 oxidation in the water column of a seasonally stratified, typical boreal lake, particularly under hypoxic conditions. We used 13CH4 incubations to determine the active CH4 oxidation sites and the potential CH4 oxidation rates in the water column, and we measured environmental variables that could explain CH4 oxidation in the water column. During hypolimnetic hypoxia, 91% of available CH4 was oxidized in the active CH4 oxidation zone, where the potential CH4 oxidation rates gradually increased from the oxycline to the hypolimnion. Our results showed that in warm springs, which become more frequent, early thermal stratification with cold well-oxygenated hypolimnion delays the period of hypolimnetic hypoxia and limits CH4 production. Thus, the delayed development of hypolimnetic hypoxia may partially counteract the expected increase in the lacustrine CH4 emissions caused by the increasing organic carbon load from forested catchments.
Effect of laser texturing on the performance of ultra-hard single-point cutting tools
Authors: Ghosh Priyanka , Pacella Manuela
Published: December 2019

This paper investigates the cutting performance and anti-adhesive properties of textured single-point polycrystalline diamond (PCD) cutting tools in machining Aluminium 6082 alloys. The micro/nano textures were first milled using a fibre laser (1064-nm wavelength) at different power intensities, feed speeds and pulse durations, and finally characterised using scanning electron microscopy, white light interferometry and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The effect of different textures on the cutting performance was investigated in turning tests under dry cutting conditions. The test was stopped at regular lengths of cut to allow analysis of height of adhesion through 3D white light interferometry. The data processing of the cutting forces and the microscopical characterisation of the tested cutting tools enabled the evaluation of the effects of texture design, friction coefficient and adhesive properties. The results indicated that feed force in tools with grooves perpendicular to the chip flow direction (CFD) was more stable (20–40 N) than the benchmark (6–41 N). Similarly, the thrust force for tools with grooves parallel to CFD and grooves perpendicular to CFD showed a homogeneous trend fluctuating between 60 and 75 N as compared with the benchmark (ranging between 73 and 90 N). For texture depth in the order of 260 nm and post process roughness in the order of tens of nanometers, a reduction of average friction coefficient (0.28 ± 0.14) was reported when using lasered inserts with grooves parallel to the chip flow direction compared with the benchmark tools (0.34 ± 0.26) corroborated by reduced stiction of workpiece material on the rake face. In machining via textured tools with grooves perpendicular to CFD, the cutting forces were reduced by 23%, and the surface quality of the machined workpiece was improved by 11.8%, making this geometry the preferred choice for finishing applications. Using grooves parallel to CFD reduced the cutting forces by 11.76%, adhesion by 59.36% and friction coefficient by 14.28%; however, it increased the surface roughness of the machined workpiece, making this geometry suitable for roughing operations. For the first time, laser manufacturing is proposed as a flexible technique to functionalise the geometrical and wear properties of PCD cutting tools to the specific applications (i.e. roughing, finishing) as opposed to the standard industrial approach to use microstructurally different PCDs (i.e. grain size and binder %) based on the type of operation.
Time-varying impact of snow depth on tourism in selected regions
Authors: Falk Martin , Lin Xiang
Published: December 2019

This study uses a time-varying model that provides new evidence on the changing relationship between domestic overnight stays of selected winter sport destinations and natural snow conditions. A Kalman filter method combined with wavelet-based multiresolution analysis (MRA) is employed to investigate the relationships in intervals between 2 and 4 and up to 16–32 months. The model is applied to domestic overnight stays for selected mountain regions in Sweden (Dalarna and Jämtland), Norway (Buskerud, Hedmark, Hordaland and Oppland) and Austria (Salzburg and Tyrol). Results show that the sensitivity of domestic overnight stays on natural snow conditions varies markedly depending on location, time period and frequency band window used in the estimation. The medium-run relation for Tyrol and Salzburg is significantly declining over time, while in Norway and Sweden, the same relationship is generally volatile and not significant at the end of the sample period. In the short run, none of the regions exhibits a link between domestic overnight stays and snow depth fluctuations.