bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A quantitative western blot technique using TMB: Comparison with the conventional technique
Authors: Ntoukas Aristeidis , Niarchos Athanasios , Tsika Aikaterini C. , Mantzoukas Spiridon , Spyroulias Georgios A. , Poulas Konstantinos
Published: December 2020

Numerous molecular biological experiments performed throughout the world require the detection or quantification of a protein of interest. Western blotting is one of the most popular techniques used for this purpose and offers quantitative information with the aid of specialized software. However, its dependence on the picture that is captured, and the background and the absence of a common protocol prevent the technique from being completely quantitative. To overcome these obstacles, we present a simple and reliable assay that is similar to the regular technique, with the exception of the last stage of band visualization and quantification. We propose that small pieces of the blot that include the protein of interest can be cut and dipped in a small volume of 3,3',5,5'‐tetramethylbenzidine solution, giving a colorimetric signal with linear dependence on the quantity of the protein. The reaction is stopped with H2SO4, and the signal is measured in a plate reader. This modification shows high linearity without additional costs and can be applied for both purified proteins and proteins found in a lysate. The results obtained with our proposed technique were compared with those obtained by the conventional method and proved to be more reliable.
3D Simulation of Cell Design Influences on Sodium–Iodine Battery Performance
Authors: Gerbig Felix , Cernak Susanne , Nirschl Hermann
Published: December 2020

This publication deals with the spatially resolved simulation of a sodium–iodine secondary battery. The anode compartment consists of molten sodium and the cathode compartment contains a high‐conductivity metal disc as electrode and an aqueous catholyte. The latter comprises iodide, triiodide, dissolved iodine, and sodium ions. A finite volume approach is proposed to model the transport processes and electrochemical reactions focusing on the positive half‐cell. The study investigates the influences of cathode length, C‐rate, electric conductivity, and molar concentrations on cell performance. It considers solubility limits and predicts diffusion limitation as the major constraint for the operating window. The presented investigations are confined to a simple cathode geometry. However, the results demonstrate the capability of the model to design sodium–iodine half‐cells.
Charge Transfer Parameters of NixMnyCo1−x−y Cathodes Evaluated by a Transmission Line Modeling Approach
Authors: Costard Janina , Joos Jochen , Schmidt Adrian , Ivers-Tiffée Ellen
Published: December 2020

The performance of lithium‐ion batteries can be analyzed and improved by appropriate electrochemical models. A challenging yet crucial part is the parameterization of these models. Until now, the literature has incompletely investigated and cited the charge transfer process parameters describing the lithium transfer between the active material particles in the electrode and the liquid electrolyte. Herein, a novel approach is presented for obtaining these charge transfer parameters. The well‐established experimental methods of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and focused ion beam tomography are applied. By introducing both experimental results into a transmission line model, a reliable determination of the charge transfer parameters j0, k, and rCT can be achieved. The new approach is validated by comparing the results of four cathodes, all containing the state‐of‐the‐art active material NixMnyCo1−x−y (NMC), but with different microstructures and/or stoichiometries.
Design of rib pillars in deep longwall mines based on rockburst and water‐seepage prevention
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Junfei , Jiang Fuxing , Jiao Zhenhua
Published: December 2020

Superhigh‐water backfill mining can mitigate rockburst risks in rockburst‐prone deep coal mines and reduce pollution caused by traditional cemented paste backfill. In this mining method, the width of the rib pillar between two longwall panels is important to maintain roadway stability, prevent rockbursts and water seepage. To design the width of rib pillars, this study firstly established a T‐shaped overlying strata structure model and analyzed source of stress that caused deformation of the T‐shaped model. Based on this model, the abutment stress in the rib pillar was determined. Then, the criterion for overall burst instability of the rib pillar was proposed according to the derived abutment stress. The limit equilibrium theory was applied to obtain the pillar plasticity which can be used as the criterion for water‐seepage prevention. The proposed approach was used to design the width of a rib pillar in Yineng Coalmine located in Shandong Province, China. The analysis of the microseismic monitoring results and borehole drill cuttings show that the designed rib pillar with a width of 10 m was stable without water seepage during mining, indicating the width design method proposed in this study is effective.
Associations of cannabis use disorder with cognition, brain structure, and brain function inAfrican Americans
Authors: Koenis Marinka M. G. , Durnez Joke , Rodrigue Amanda L. , Mathias Samuel R. , Alexander‐Bloch Aaron F. , Barrett Jennifer A. , Doucet Gaelle E. , Frangou Sophia , Knowles Emma E. M. , Mollon Josephine , Denbow Dominique , Aberizk Katrina , Zatony Molly , Janssen Ronald J. , Curran Joanne E. , Blangero John , Poldrack Russell A. , Pearlson Godfrey D. , Glahn David C.
Published: December 2020

Although previous studies have highlighted associations of cannabis use with cognition and brain morphometry, critical questions remain with regard to the association between cannabis use and brain structural and functional connectivity. In a cross‐sectional community sample of 205 African Americans (age 18–70) we tested for associations of cannabis use disorder (CUD,n= 57) with multi‐domain cognitive measures and structural, diffusion, and resting state brain‐imaging phenotypes. Post hoc model evidence was computed with Bayes factors (BF) and posterior probabilities of association (PPA) to account for multiple testing. General cognitive functioning, verbal intelligence, verbal memory, working memory, and motor speed were lower in the CUD group compared with non‐users (p < .011; 1.9 < BF < 3,217). CUD was associated with altered functional connectivity in a network comprising the motor‐hand region in the superior parietal gyri and the anterior insula (p < .04). These differences were not explained by alcohol, other drug use, or education. No associations with CUD were observed in cortical thickness, cortical surface area, subcortical or cerebellar volumes (0.12 < BF < 1.5), or graph‐theoretical metrics of resting state connectivity (PPA < 0.01). In a large sample collected irrespective of cannabis used to minimize recruitment bias, we confirm the literature on poorer cognitive functioning in CUD, and an absence of volumetric brain differences between CUD and non‐CUD. We did not find evidence for or against a disruption of structural connectivity, whereas we did find localized resting state functional dysconnectivity in CUD. There was sufficient proof, however, that organization of functional connectivity as determined via graph metrics does not differ between CUD and non‐user group.
Dietary intake of branched‐chain amino acids and survival after colorectal cancer diagnosis
Authors: Long Lu , Yang Wanshui , Liu Li , Tobias Deirdre K. , Katagiri Ryoko , Wu Kana , Jin Lina , Zhang Fang‐Fang , Luo Xiao , Liu Xing , Ogino Shuji , Chan Andrew T. , Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Giovannucci Edward , Zhang Xuehong
Published: December 2020

Branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs), including leucine, isoleucine and valine, may potentially influence cancer progression by various mechanisms including its role in insulin resistance. However, the association of BCAAs with survival among patients with established colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. We evaluated the associations between postdiagnostic BCAA intake with CRC‐specific mortality and overall mortality among 1674 patients with nonmetastatic CRC in the Nurses' Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow‐up Study. Patients completed a validated food frequency questionnaire. Multivariable hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using Cox proportional‐hazards regression model after adjustment for tumor characteristics and potential confounding factors. Comparing the highest with the lowest quartile intake of postdiagnostic total BCAA, the multivariable HRs were 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75‐1.85, P for trend = .46 across quartiles) for CRC‐specific mortality and 1.30 (95% CI, 1.01‐1.69, P for trend = .04) for all‐cause mortality. The multivariable HRs (the highest vs the lowest quartile) for all‐cause mortality were 1.33 (95% CI, 1.03‐1.73, Ptrend = .02) for valine, 1.28 (95% CI, 0.99‐1.66, P for trend = .05) for leucine and 1.25 (95% CI, 0.96‐1.61, P for trend = .06) for isoleucine. No statistically significant associations with each of the BCAA intake were observed for CRC‐specific mortality (all P for trend > .30). Our findings suggest positive associations between higher intake of dietary BCAAs and risk of all‐cause mortality in CRC patients. These findings need to be confirmed and potential mechanisms underlying this association need to be elucidated.
Mechanisms leading to equilibrium in economy with financial market
Authors: Lipieta Agnieszka , Ćwięczek Ilona
Published: December 2020

Joseph Schumpeter pointed to the important role of the economic mechanism, understood as a set of rules and regularities explaining the economic life, within the evolution of the economy. Innovative mechanisms as well as mechanisms of adaptation of innovations into agents' activities were at the core of his interest. This paper aims at designing some kinds of innovative and non‐innovative mechanisms that can appear within the economic evolution. Hurwicz mechanisms are used to rigorously study the processes within which real and financial innovations are adopted into routine agents' activities. Mechanisms that could result in the existence of equilibrium in the economy with financial markets and private ownership are specifically under our consideration. Due to the above, qualitative properties of analysed mechanisms can be examined with respect to Schumpeter's concepts.
FIGO good clinical practice paper: management of the second stage of labor
Authors: Wright Alison , Nassar Anwar H. , Visser Gerry , Ramasauskaite Diana , Theron Gerhard ,   for the FIGO Safe Motherhood and Newborn Health Committee
Published: December 2020

This good clinical practice paper provides an overview of the current evidence around second stage care, highlighting the challenges and the importance of maintaining high‐quality, safe, and respectful care in all settings. It includes a series of recommendations based on best available evidence regarding length of second stage, judicious use of episiotomy, and the importance of competent attendants and adequate resource to facilitate all aspects of second stage management, from physiological birth to assisted vaginal delivery and cesarean at full dilatation. The second stage of labor is potentially the most dangerous time for the baby and can have significant consequences for the mother, including death or severe perineal trauma or fistula, especially where there are failures to recognize and repair. This paper sets out principles of care, including the vital role of skilled birth attendants and birth companions, and the importance of obstetricians and midwives working together effectively and speaking with one voice, whether to women or to policy makers. The optimization of high‐quality, safe, and personalized care in the second stage of labor for all women globally can only be achieved by appropriate attention to the training of birth attendants, midwives, and obstetricians. FIGO is committed to this aim alongside the WHO, ICM, and all FIGO’s 132 member societies.
Cancer detection using convolutional neural network optimized by multistrategy artificial electric field algorithm
Authors: Sinthia P. , Malathi M.
Published: December 2020

Recently, image processing schemes are widely used to improve disease detection performance in many medicinal fields. Cancer is considered as one of the most deadly disease and early diagnosis of cancer is the complicated task in the field of medicine. In this paper, we present the two pretrained convolutional neural network (CNN) based on ensemble models such as VGG19 and VGG16 for cancer diagnosis that classifies both normal and abnormal images. The dilemma associated with CNN hyperparameter tuning complicates while diagnosing cancer. Hence, we propose multistrategy based artificial electric field (M‐AEF) algorithm for hyper‐parameter tuning in CNN thereby finding the optimal values. The exponentially decaying learning rates are more helpful to train CNN and prevent it from a local minimum. Thus, random minority over‐sampling and random majority under‐sampling address the imbalanced issue present in the dataset. The images are obtained from three different datasets namely the Kaggle dataset, International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR) dataset, and cancer programming dataset for cancer detection. The experimental results are executed in MATLAB software and various performance analyses are carried out. Finally, the proposed method demonstrated better and higher cancer detection performance than other methods.
Temperature dependence of nickel ion release from nitinol medical devices
Authors: Saylor David M. , Sivan Shiril , Turner Paul , Shi Huiyu , Soneson Joshua E. , Weaver Jason D. , Di Prima Matthew , Sussman Eric M.
Published: December 2020

Nitinol exhibits unique (thermo)mechanical properties that make it central to the design of many medical devices. However, nitinol nominally contains 50 atomic percent nickel, which if released in sufficient quantities, can lead to adverse health effects. While nickel release from nitinol devices is typically characterized using in vitro immersion tests, these evaluations require lengthy time periods. We have explored elevated temperature as a potential method to expedite this testing. Nickel release was characterized in nitinol materials with surface oxide thickness ranging from 12 to 1564 nm at four different temperatures from 310 to 360 K. We found that for three of the materials with relatively thin oxide layers, ≤ 87 nm nickel release exhibited Arrhenius behavior over the entire temperature range with activation energies of 80 to 85 kJ/mol. Conversely, the fourth ''black–oxide'' material, with a much thicker, complex oxide layer, was not well characterized by an Arrhenius relationship. Power law release profiles were observed in all four materials; however, the exponent from the thin oxide materials was approximately 1/4 compared with 3/4 for the black–oxide material. To illustrate the potential benefit of using elevated temperature to abbreviate nickel release testing, we demonstrated that a > 50 day 310 K release profile could be accurately recovered by testing for less than 1 week at 340 K. However, because the materials explored in this study were limited, additional testing and mechanistic insight are needed to establish a protective temperature scaling that can be applied to all nitinol medical device components.
Quantitative phase imaging of erythrocyte in epilepsy patients
Authors: Ünal Aysun , Kocahan Özlem , Altunan Bengü , Aksoy Gündoğdu Aslı , Uyanık Merve , Özder Serhat
Published: December 2020

The present study focuses on the quantitative phase imaging of erythrocytes with the aim to compare the morphological differences between epilepsy patients under antiepileptic treatment, who have no other disease which may affect the erythrocyte morphology, and the healthy control group. The white light diffraction phase microscopy (WDPM) has been used to obtain the interferogram of the erythrocyte surfaces. The continuous wavelet transform with Paul wavelet has been chosen to calculate the surface profiles from this interferogram image. For the determination of alteration in morphology, besides WDPM, erythrocyte surfaces have been investigated by light microscope and scanning electron microscope. In this way, it has been possible to see the difference in terms of precision and implementation between the most commonly used methods with regard to the quantitative phase imaging. Erythrocytes from all the samples have been examined and displayed in both two‐ and three‐dimensional way. We have observed that erythrocytes of patients with effective antiepileptic blood levels were more affected in morphology than healthy subjects. When we compared the erythrocyte morphological changes of patients who received monotherapy or polytherapy, no difference was observed. In conclusion, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) cause red blood cell (RBC) morphological changes and a combined usage of WDPM with Paul wavelet and light microscopy methods are very convenient for studying the erythrocyte morphologies on multiple patients.
Bone and renal safety profile at 72 weeks after switching to tenofovir alafenamide in chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Lee Brian T , Chang Mimi , Lim Carolina , Bae Ho S , Fong Tse‐Ling
Published: December 2020

Background and Aim

Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) has been efficacious in treating chronic hepatitis B (CHB), but long‐term use is accompanied by a decline in renal function and bone mineral density (BMD). Tenofovir alefanamide (TAF) is a prodrug of tenofovir, with similar efficacy in CHB but with fewer side effects than TDF. Recent studies on patients who underwent the switch from TDF to TAF have shown improved bone and renal profiles from 24 to 48 weeks of follow‐up.

Methods

This study provides follow‐up at 72 weeks in a real‐world cohort of 61 Asian CHB patients who were switched from TDF to TAF. All patients had been treated with TDF for at least 12 months with hepatitis B virus DNA <21 IU/mL prior to switch.

Results

Improvements in proximal tubular function, measured by urine beta‐2‐microglobulin to creatinine and retinol‐binding protein to creatinine ratios, were sustained at 72 weeks (P < 0.01). Renal function showed decline at 72 weeks compared to baseline (GFRCG 90.9 vs 96.3 mL/min, P < 0.01). Improvement in hip BMD was sustained at 72 weeks (mean % change of 17.7% from baseline, P < 0.01). However, spine BMD showed discordance, with initial improvement at 24 weeks (3.3% from week 0, P < 0.01) but regression at 72 weeks (−0.6% from week 0, P = NS). Interestingly, there was a slight increase in weight and BMI after 72 weeks (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

CHB patients who switch from long‐term TDF to TAF therapy show sustained improvement in proximal tubular function and hip BMD. Weight gain was noted, and long‐term studies are needed to evaluate its effect on patient outcomes.
Twenty‐four‐month outcomes from a cluster‐randomized controlled trial of extending antiretroviral therapy refills in ART adherence clubs
Authors: Cassidy Tali , Grimsrud Anna , Keene Claire , Lebelo Keitumetse , Hayes Helen , Orrell Catherine , Zokufa Nompumelelo , Mutseyekwa Tabitha , Voget Jacqueline , Gerstenhaber Rodd , Wilkinson Lynne
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence club (AC) model has supported clinically stable HIV patients’ retention with group ART refills and psychosocial support. Reducing visit frequency by increasing ART refills to six months could further benefit patients and unburden health systems. We conducted a pragmatic non‐inferiority cluster randomized trial comparing standard of care (SoC) ACs and six‐month refill intervention ACs in a primary care facility in Khayelitsha, South Africa.

Methods

Existing community‐based and facility‐based ACs were randomized to either SoC or intervention ACs. SoC ACs met five times annually, receiving two‐month refills with a four‐month refill over year‐end. Blood was drawn at one AC visit with a clinical assessment at the next. Intervention ACs met twice annually receiving six‐month refills, with an individual blood collection visit before the annual clinical assessment AC visit. The first study visits were in October and November 2017 and participants followed for 27 months. We report retention in care, viral load completion and viral suppression (<400 copies/mL) 24 months after enrolment and calculated intention‐to‐treat risk differences for the primary outcomes using generalized estimating equations specifying for clustering by AC.

Results

Of 2150 participants included in the trial, 977 were assigned to the intervention arm (40 ACs) and 1173 to the SoC (48 ACs). Patient characteristics at enrolment were similar across groups. Retention in care at 24 months was similarly high in both arms: 93.6% (1098/1173) in SoC and 92.6% (905/977) in the intervention arm, with a risk difference of −1.0% (95% CI: −3.2 to 1.3). The intervention arm had higher viral load completion (90.8% (999/1173) versus 85.1% (887/977)) and suppression (87.3% (969 /1173) versus 82.6% (853/977)) at 24 months, with a risk difference for completion of 5.5% (95% CI: 1.5 to 9.5) and suppression of 4.6% (95% CI: 0.2 to 9.0).

Conclusions

Intervention AC patients receiving six‐month ART refills showed non‐inferior retention in care, viral load completion and viral load suppression to those in SoC ACs, adding to a growing literature showing good outcomes with extended ART dispensing intervals.
An international classification of inherited metabolic disorders (ICIMD)
Authors: Ferreira Carlos R. , Rahman Shamima , Keller Markus , Zschocke Johannes ,   ICIMD Advisory Group
Published: December 2020

Several initiatives at establishing a classification of inherited metabolic disorders have been published previously, some focusing on pathomechanisms, others on clinical manifestations, while yet another attempted a simplified approach of a comprehensive nosology. Some of these classifications suffered from shortcomings, such as lack of a mechanism for continuous update in light of a rapidly evolving field, or lack of widespread input from the metabolic community at large. Our classification—the International Classification of Inherited Metabolic Disorders, or International Classification of Inborn Metabolic Disorders (ICIMD)—includes 1450 disorders, and differs from prior approaches in that it benefited from input by a large number of experts in the field, and was endorsed by major metabolic societies around the globe. Several criteria such as pathway involvement and pathomechanisms were considered. The main purpose of the hierarchical, group‐based approach of the ICIMD is an improved understanding of the interconnections between many individual conditions that may share functional, clinical, and diagnostic features. The ICIMD aims to include any primary genetic condition in which alteration of a biochemical pathway is intrinsic to specific biochemical, clinical, and/or pathophysiological features. As new disorders are discovered, we will seek the opinion of experts in the advisory board prior to inclusion in the appropriate group of the ICIMD, thus guaranteeing the continuing relevance of this classification via regular curation and expert advice.
Atom search sunflower optimization for trust‐based routing in internet of things
Authors: Jadhav Pramod P. , Joshi Shashank D.
Published: December 2020

Internet of Things (IoT) is a ubiquitous network that assists the system to monitor and organize the world by processing, collection, and analysis of produced data by IoT nodes. The IoT is susceptible to numerous attacks, wherein the sinkhole attack is the most destructive one, which affects the communication amongst network devices. The security of the IoT is affected due to the lack of dynamic network topology, centralized control, and network communications, so that the trust‐based routing is important. The conventional trust‐based routing strategies are ineffective to offer protection against attack and thus, trust management remains a major challenge in routing. This paper proposes a novel technique namely Atom Search Sunflower Optimization (ASSFO) for providing trust‐based routing in IoT network. The proposed ASSFO is designed by incorporating Sunflower Optimization (SFO) in Atom Search Optimization (ASO). The method utilizes several trust factors for determining and isolating attacks while optimizing the performance of the network. The trust factors considered in the method include indirect trust, recent trust, integrity factor, direct trust, and availability factor. Moreover, the trusted nodes are selected using the trust factor and further used for secure routing using the proposed ASSFO algorithm. The proposed ASSFO outperformed other methods with maximal energy of 0.908, maximal trust of 0.845, maximal PDR of 0.907, and maximal throughput of 0.909.
Ultrasound‐Guided Percutaneous Iliotibial Band Release for External Coxa Saltans
Authors: Coulomb Remy , Cascales Valentin , Mares Olivier , Bertrand Martin M. , George David A. , Kouyoumdjian Pascal
Published: December 2020

The surgical treatment of external coxa saltans is not standardized. Many techniques for iliotibial release have been described, both open and arthroscopic. No technique describes ultrasound release. In this cadaveric study, we describe a minimally invasive technique for percutaneous iliotibial release with ultrasound guidance, designed to be performed under local anesthesia. The future objective would be to perform an active intraoperative test of the snapping hip to confirm adequate release, thus reducing the risk of recurrence.
Reducing topsoil depth decreases the yield and nutrient uptake of maize and soybean grown in a glacial till
Authors: Guo Lili , Yang Yue , Zhao Yue , Li Yansheng , Sui Yueyu , Tang Caixian , Jin Jian , Liu Xiaobing
Published: December 2020

Soil erosion decreases topsoil depth on hill slopes and increases depth in depositional areas, and hence impacts soil fertility and crop productivity in agricultural systems. However, it is not clearly elucidated how different crop species adapt to soil erosion regarding root function, nutrient uptake, and rhizosphere biochemical properties, which is pivotal to cropping strategy. We established three simulated erosion severities with topsoil depths of 10, 20, and 30 cm on a Mollisol farmland under a maize‐soybean rotation system with no‐tillage (zero‐tillage). After three consecutive years of field experiment, the decrease in topsoil thickness from 30 to 10 cm resulted in 9–22% decrease in maize yield but no impact on soybean yield. Compared to the 30‐ and 20‐cm topsoil thickness, the 10‐cm topsoil significantly lowered root and shoot biomass of maize at the jointing (V7) and milk stages (R3) and of soybean at the mid‐seed filling stage (R6). Compared to the 30‐cm topsoil treatment, the 10‐cm topsoil decreased available N and P in soil by 42 and 36% under maize, and by 25 and 19% under soybean, respectively, while the shallow topsoil also decreased ratios of N, P, and K content to root length with the decreases being less for maize than soybean. Compared to the 30‐cm topsoil depth, the 10‐ and 20‐cm topsoil significantly increased the activities of urease, phosphatase, and invertase in maize rhizosphere soil, but not in soybean rhizosphere soil except for the activity of urease in 10‐cm topsoil. These results indicated that maize was more sensitive to thinning of topsoil than soybean due to the reduced soil nutrient availability and its capability to extract nutrients from the soil. The greater stimulation of nutrient mineralization processes in soil did not alleviate the nutrient constraint to maize yield under shallow topsoil conditions. Thus, it is increasingly important to develop fertilization strategy to maintain nutrient supply for maize rather than soybean when these crops are grown in the shallow topsoil.
“No drain, no gain”: Validation of novel quinsy simulation model
Authors: Bhalla Sanjana , O'Byrne Lisa , Beegun Issa , Amos Dora , Jones James Arwyn , Awad Zaid , Tolley Neil
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To test a novel, low‐cost, home‐made model for needle aspiration of PTA.

To ascertain whether simulation‐based teaching using this model was superior to lecture‐based teaching in increasing confidence and reducing anxiety relating to PTA aspiration.

To assess whether there was an improvement in outcomes for PTA patients at one hospital following the delivery of a simulation‐based training session using our model.

Methods

We designed two teaching sessions for junior doctors starting work in ENT: a simulation‐based teaching session using a low‐cost home‐made simulation model and a lecture‐based teaching session covering the same content. We asked the participants to complete pre‐ and post‐session surveys regarding confidence and anxiety levels and analyzed this data. We also retrospectively collected data over 3 months for patients referred to ENT with suspected PTA and assessed their outcomes. We assessed patient outcomes before and after the delivery of a simulation‐based training course using our model.

Results

Simulation‐based teaching using our model was shown to be associated with a statistically significant increase in junior doctors' confidence levels. Reaccumulation and reattendance rates for PTA following aspiration were 16.67% and 22.7% respectively preintervention and 0% and 7.14% respectively postintervention.

Conclusion

A regular simulation‐based teaching session should be introduced using a PTA aspiration model for junior doctors as it leads to increased confidence levels, and reduced reaccumulation and recurrence rates of PTA.

Level of evidence

Level 4.
Investigation of ionic liquids with and without graphene as lubricant additive for metal/metal and metal/PEEK contacts over a wide temperature range
Authors: Amann Tobias , Gatti Felix , Li Ke , Demirel Yakub , Kailer Andreas , Feng Hao , Yuan Chengqing
Published: December 2020

The aim of the work is to improve tribological properties of an ATF oil by means of additives. Two ionic liquids (IL) and one IL with 0.1 wt.% graphene were chosen as candidates. The ILs were selected because of their promising surface interactions and proven synergy with anti‐wear additives. However, little is known about the addition of ILs to fully formulated lubricants, especially in the low temperature range. Therefore, static and sliding friction as well as wear were measured in an application‐relevant temperature range of −30 to 100°C using a rotating ball‐on‐3‐plate test. The best additive for ATF oil for material pairing 100Cr6/polyether ether ketone was 5 wt.% [P66614][TMPP][G] (halogen‐free) and for 100Cr6/sintered iron 3 wt.% [P66614][BTA]. The additives lead to a wear reduction of more than 50%. Furthermore, it could be observed that the selected ILs have different effects on the friction behaviour at the temperatures investigated.
A self‐tracking phase retrieval algorithm used in distributed disturbance sensing
Authors: Mi Qiushi , Yu Houdan , Xiao Qian
Published: December 2020

The phase‐retrieval method with delayed calibration is widely used in fiber‐optic sensing structures to extract the distributed vibration messages. Yet, the performance of this method is not satisfactory when sudden changes are introduced in sensing path, for the DC compensation is not a slow variable under this situation. To improve the adjustment of interferometric fiber‐optic structure, a self‐tracking phase retrieval method is proposed. In the novel algorithm, the static state is tracked by calibrating DC compensation value in each retrieval period. When tested in the real scene with a 20 km‐long sensing fiber, the performance of the novel retrieval algorithm has been proved. Experimental results show that, compared with the conventional delayed calibration method, self‐tracking algorithm brings a better accuracy and uniformity performance in intrusion location test and shows a better adaptability to the environment.
Effects of mexiletine on hyperexcitability in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Preliminary findings from a small phase II randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weiss Michael D. , Macklin Eric A. , McIlduff Courtney E. , Vucic Steve , Wainger Brian J. , Kiernan Matthew C. , Goutman Stephen A. , Goyal Namita A. , Rutkove Seward B. , Ladha Shafeeq S. , Chen I‐Hweii Amy , Harms Matthew B. , Brannagan Thomas H. , Lacomis David , Zivkovic Sasha , Ma Maxwell , Wang Leo H. , Simmons Zachary , Rivner Michael H. , Shefner Jeremy M. , Cudkowicz Merit E. , Atassi Nazem ,   for the Mexiletine‐2 ALS Study Group
Published: December 2020

Background

To collect preliminary data on the effects of mexiletine on cortical and axonal hyperexcitability in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in a phase 2 double‐blind randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Twenty ALS subjects were randomized to placebo and mexiletine 300 or 600 mg daily for 4 wk and assessed by transcranial magnetic stimulation and axonal excitability studies. The primary endpoint was change in resting motor threshold (RMT).

Results

RMT was unchanged with 4 wk of mexiletine (combined active therapies) as compared to placebo, which showed a significant increase (P = .039). Reductions of motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude (P = .013) and accommodation half‐time (P = .002), secondary outcome measures of cortical and axonal excitability, respectively, were also evident at 4 wk on mexiletine.

Conclusions

The relative stabilization of RMT in the treated subjects was unexpected and could be attributed to unaccounted sources of error or chance. However, a possible alternative cause is neuromodulation preventing an increase. The change in MEP amplitude and accommodation half‐time supports the reduction of cortical and axonal hyperexcitability with mexiletine.
Effect of molecular weight on mechanical properties and microstructure of 3D printed poly(ether ether ketone)
Authors: Xu Qinfei , Shang Yingshuang , Jiang Zilong , Wang Zhaoyang , Zhou Chenyi , Liu Xin , Yan Qixing , Li Xuefeng , Zhang Haibo
Published: December 2020

Fused deposition modeling (FDM) has been successfully applied to the manufacturing of poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) special engineering plastics. However, due to the unavoidable defects caused by FDM technology and the high melt viscosity of PEEK, 3D printed PEEK parts have poor mechanical properties. In this study, the mechanical properties and microstructure of PEEK printed with different nozzle temperatures and having various molecular weights were researched in detail. The results showed that PEEK‐033G with medium molecular weight had good fluidity. With a nozzle temperature of 410 °C and using a high‐temperature chamber 3D printing system, the defects of 3D printed PEEK‐033G were reduced significantly, and the tensile strength and flexural strength could reach 96 and 115 MPa, which is close to the performance obtained using injection molding. In addition, the tensile strength in the Z‐axis direction was applied to characterize the interlayer bond strength. With a decrease of the viscosity of PEEK, an increase of interlayer bond strength ensued. It is expected that these findings could provide more insight for 3D printing of PEEK. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Breast cancer survivors' satisfying marriages predict better psychological and physical health: A longitudinal comparison of satisfied, dissatisfied, and unmarried women
Authors: Shrout M. Rosie , Renna Megan E. , Madison Annelise A. , Alfano Catherine M. , Povoski Stephen P. , Lipari Adele M. , Agnese Doreen M. , Farrar William B. , Carson William E. , Kiecolt‐Glaser Janice K.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Breast cancer survivors who experience psychological and physical symptoms after treatment have an increased risk for comorbid disease development, reduced quality of life, and premature mortality. Identifying factors that reduce or exacerbate their symptoms may enhance their long‐term health and physical functioning. This study examined how survivors' marital status and marital satisfaction—key health determinants—impacted their psychological and physical health trajectories to understand when, and for whom, marriage offers health benefits.

Methods

Breast cancer survivors (n = 209, stages 0–IIIC) completed a baseline visit before treatment and two follow‐up visits 6 and 18 months after treatment ended. Women completed questionnaires assessing their marital status and satisfaction when applicable, as well as their psychological (depressive symptoms, stress) and physical (fatigue, pain) health at each visit.

Results

Married women—both those in satisfying and dissatisfying marriages—experienced improvements in their depressive symptoms, stress, and fatigue from pretreatment to 6‐ and 18‐month posttreatment. Unmarried (i.e., single, divorced/separated, or widowed) women's depressive symptoms, stress, fatigue, and pain did not change over time, instead remaining elevated 6 and 18 months after treatment ended. Women in satisfying marriages also had fewer psychological and physical symptoms after treatment than those who were unmarried or in dissatisfying marriages.

Conclusions

Although marriage was associated with improved psychological and physical health, the gains were most notable when survivors' marriages were satisfying. Thus, the quality of survivors' marriages, rather than the marriage itself, provided the most benefits to their psychological and physical health.
Characterizing and predicting sublethal shifts in mobility by multiple stored product insects over time to an old and novel contact insecticide in three key stored commodities
Authors: Morrison William R , Arthur Frank H , Bruce Alexander
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

There has been a push to diversify integrated pest management (IPM) programs away from exclusive fumigant use in food facilities. Residual insecticides increasingly have been included among plans. In stored products, sublethal toxicity has been neglected in favor of evaluating direct mortality. Here, we evaluated the movement of Tribolium castaneum, Rhyzopertha dominica, Sitophilus oryzae and Sitophilus zeamais in response to aged residues of an existing (Diacon IGR+® with 11.4% methoprene + 4.75% deltamethrin) and novel (Gravista® with 2.85% methoprene + 1.2% deltamethrin + 33.3% piperonyl butoxide synergist) residual insecticide.

RESULTS

Using the maximum labeled rate and two exposure times for each species, we assessed distance moved and velocity on wheat, rice and corn. Assessments were made from commodity residues aged between 0 and 12 months (at 3‐month intervals). We found that after exposure, movement was reduced by 50–88% and equally by adults exposed to each insecticide formulation compared to untreated controls. After initial application, predicted distance moved increased from 4 to 14 m then 28 m in a 24 h period at 3 and 12 months post‐application, respectively. Effectiveness of each insecticide at suppressing movement generally declined by 9–12 month post‐application.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the quick and dramatic increases in sublethal movement after initial application, our results suggest that sanitation programs in post‐harvest environments are extremely important and it may be beneficial to pair chemical control with monitoring to prevent dispersal of affected insects to new areas of a facility. Published 2020. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA
Effect of Hydrogen Doping on the Gate‐Tunable Memristive Behavior of Zinc Oxide Films with and without F or N Doping
Authors: Son Ki-Hoon , Kang Kyung-Mun , Park Hyung-Ho , Lee Hong-Sub
Published: December 2020

Three‐terminal memristor devices with a channel length of 70 μm and a width of 5 μm are fabricated using undoped zinc oxide (ZnO), fluorine‐doped zinc oxide (ZnO:F), and nitrogen‐doped zinc oxide (ZnO:N) semiconductor thin films via atomic layer deposition. To observe the effects of humidity and hydrogen doping on their gate‐tunable memristive behavior, gate‐tunable memristive behaviors are measured with a drain bias (VD) ± 10 V at different gate voltages (VG) from 50 to −50 V under humidity of 40%, 55%, and 70%. Resistive switching behavior caused by the hydrogen doping effect is observed, and the on/off ratio increases with increasing humidity, whereas the gate tunability decreases. The conductance and gate tunability of all devices decrease with an increase in humidity due to the hydrogen doping effect. As this study adopts a three‐terminal structure with an oxide memristor, it clearly shows the moisture effect on the memristive behavior of oxide‐based memristors.
Reconciling different methods of high‐latitude blocking detection
Authors: Tyrlis Evangelos , Bader Jürgen , Manzini Elisa , Matei Daniela
Published: December 2020

Blocking is associated with outbreaks of easterlies induced by a continuum of features including anticyclones, cyclones or both. Blocking identification methods disagree on the levels of high‐latitude blocking (HLB) activity. We investigate the cause of the disagreement in HLB activity over the Northern Hemisphere obtained by two 2D methods: the PV– index and the Absolute Geopotential Height (AGH) reversal method. Although both classify as absolute field methods, the former yields nearly twice the winter HLB activity of the latter method. We show that this discrepancy is caused by the addition of a poleward criterion in the AGH method that requires strong poleward westerlies. The additional criterion in the AGH method shifts the focus on the detection of blocking ridges and thus other blocking circulation patterns are under‐represented. Both methods agree on the climatology of midlatitude blocking because the poleward criterion has been tuned to capture the strong midlatitude blocking, but the discrepancy grows in high latitudes. HLBs are different because they occur on the northern flank of the westerlies and are associated with the equatorward displacement of the midlatitude jet. HLB anticyclones are weaker and do not induce strong poleward westerlies compared to their midlatitude counterparts. The implementation of a strict poleward criterion designed to identify midlatitude blocks rejects many HLBs. The use of the less strict cut‐off threshold (CT) of 0 m (°lat)−1 in the poleward criterion for latitudes higher than 60°N results in the convergence of climatology, interannual variability and trends of HLB between the two methods, especially during winter. The additional HLBs identified by the modified AGH algorithm develop from cyclonic wave breaking that is typical for oceanic blocking. The modified AGH method can be useful in detecting more robust HLB trends in climate model projections.
SAD: Verifying the scale, anisotropy and direction of precipitation forecasts
Authors: Buschow Sebastian , Friederichs Petra
Published: December 2020

One important attribute of meteorological forecasts is their representation of spatial structures. While several existing verification methods explicitly measure a structure error, they mostly produce a single value with no simple interpretation. Extending a recently developed wavelet‐based verification method, this study separately evaluates the predicted spatial scale, orientation and degree of anisotropy. The scale component has been rigorously tested in previous work and is known to assess the quality of a forecast similar to other, established methods. However, directional aspects of spatial structure are less frequently considered in the verification literature. Since important weather phenomena related to fronts, coastlines and orography have distinctly anisotropic signatures, their representation in meteorological models is clearly of interest. The ability of the new wavelet approach to accurately evaluate directional properties is demonstrated using idealized and realistic test cases from the MesoVICT project. A comparison of precipitation forecasts from several forecasting systems reveals that errors in scale and direction can occur independently and should be treated as separate aspects of forecast quality. In a final step, we use the inverse wavelet transform to define a simple post‐processing algorithm that corrects the structural errors. The procedure improves visual similarity with the observations, as well as the objective scores.
The effect of learning curve on perioperative outcomes of robotic gastrectomy in two western high‐volume centers
Authors: Solaini Leonardo , D'Ignazio Alessia , Marrelli Daniele , Marano Luigi , Avanzolini Andrea , Morgagni Paolo , Roviello Franco , Ercolani Giorgio
Published: December 2020

Introduction

To compare outcomes of robotic gastrectomy (RG) performed during the learning curve (P1) with those after its completion (P2).

Methods

In this retrospective study, all consecutive RG patients (n = 92) performed between 2008 and 2018 were included. Primary outcome was conversion rate.

Results

D2 lymphadenectomies were more common in P2 (41, 97.6%) than P1 (41, 82.0%) (p = 0.019). Conversions were 11 (22%) in P1 versus 2 (4.8%) in P2 (p = 0.006). Postoperative morbidity was comparable between the groups. Median hospital stay was significantly shorter in P2. The only factor significantly associated with conversion was P2 (odds ratio = 0.18; 95% confidence interval, 0.04–0.85;p = 0.039). The 5‐year overall survival in P1 was 79.6% versus 79.7% in P2 (p = 0.373).

Conclusions

The learning curve affected operative and postoperative outcomes: during the learning curve, conversion to open surgery was significantly more frequent, the number of D2 was higher and patients were discharged earlier.
Consensus of heterogeneous discrete‐time multi‐agent systems with noise over Markov switching topologies
Authors: Sun Fenglan , Lei Chengyu , Kurths Jürgen
Published: December 2020

This paper considers the mean‐square bounded consensus of heterogeneous discrete‐time multi‐agent systems with noise over fixed and Markov switching topologies. Firstly, a protocol is designed based on the agents' neighbor information with noise. Secondly, by using the Lyapunov function method, matrix analysis and probability theory, sufficient conditions for the mean‐square bounded consensus are given. Finally, several simulations are presented to illustrate the potential correctness of the results.
Secure graphical password based on cued click points using fuzzy logic
Authors: Ghiyamipour Fatemeh
Published: December 2020

Nowadays authentication technology is the most important means to ensure security. Alphanumeric username and password procedure is the most common authentication method. Users typically choose memorable passwords that are easy for attackers to guess, and assigned passwords by the system are difficult for users to remember. We present a graphical password based on cued recall in which is secured from shoulder surfing attack. Also, we propose an image encryption technique using a 2D cat map and edge detection technique in which it uses fuzzy logic inference to detect the edge of images. Then the user password is encrypted before storing it in the database using this method. Experiments illustrate that the proposed method has good performance in usability and security.