bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A SUITABLE DESIGN OF OUTLET TYPE FOR PADDIES IN TAIWAN BY EVALUATING THE FLOOD DETENTION EFFECT AND APPLICABILITY
Authors: Chen Rong‐Song , Cheng Yun‐Ta , Huang Po‐Wei
Published: September 2019

This study intends to enhance a paddy's flood detention effect by adjusting the outlet mechanism to mitigate flooding. Since the paddy's detention effect is an additional function, this study focuses on figuring out a suitable design by comprehensively considering the inundation duration for rice, least peak discharge for flood detention and applicability for various ridge heights. This study establishes a water balance model by utilizing the outlet's discharge coefficients and loss intensity calibrated from the field test. The study adopts the shuffled complex evolution (SCE‐UA) method to optimize the peak discharge. Based on the dimensions of the paddy ridges around the test field and a 24‐h rainfall in a 50‐year return period, both the orifice type and the overflow type perform well, with peak discharge = 0.0105 m3 s‾¹ and peak time = 960 min. Compared with the weir type, they function well in flood detention, with peak discharge reduction = 65.9% and detention time (time span between the peak time of the weir type and that of the others) = 200 min. Despite having the best performance in flood detention, the orifice type is the least applicable due to the limitation of ridge height. The overflow type has the advantages of both the weir and the orifice types. It is the most suitable design for paddies in Taiwan in terms of applicability and flood detention effect. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimizing the primary care clinical pharmacy specialist: Increasing patient access and quality of care within the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: McFarland M. Shawn , Nelson Jordan , Ourth Heather , Groppi Julie , Morreale Anthony
Published: September 2019

Background

Access to high‐quality care is a US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) top priority. The VA utilized the principles of the Patient Centered Medical Home model to design the Patient‐Aligned Care Team (PACT) to deliver primary care to our nation's Veterans. The PACT model was introduced in the VA in 2009 and was implemented across the health care system in 2010.

Objective

This review will highlight how the VA clinical pharmacy specialist (CPS) have been integrated throughout the VA to provide clinical care services in the primary care setting. CPSs in PACTs provide comprehensive medication management (CMM) in between typical PACT provider visits to initiate, modify, or discontinue medications, as well as providing disease management in foundational and high‐volume areas such as anticoagulation, pain management, diabetes, hypertension, anemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, hepatitis C, and hyperlipidemia.

Conclusions

Within the VA, CPSs work autonomously but collaboratively under a global or practice area‐based scope of practice (SOP) with prescriptive authority. VA CPS serving as a provider in primary care increase access and quality of care to veterans through the provision of CMM. This model has the opportunity to be leveraged in other health care systems.
Modulation of foreign body reaction and macrophage phenotypes concerning microenvironment
Authors: Chu Chenyu , Liu Li , Rung Shengan , Wang Yuanjing , Ma Yuxing , Hu Chen , Zhao Xiwen , Man Yi , Qu Yili
Published: September 2019

The foreign body reaction (FBR) is described as a local chronic inflammation after implantation of biomaterials in which macrophages involved intimately. At the stage of acute inflammation, mast cells release histamine, Interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) and Interleukin‐13 (IL‐13), enhancing recruitment, and fusion of macrophages in the following phase. As for chronic intensive inflammation, degradation of biomaterials would be promoted by macrophage‐derived foreign body giant cells releasing degradative enzymes, acid and reactive oxygen intermediates. Nevertheless, it could be seen as a breakthrough point for regulating FBR, considering the dominant role of the macrophage in the immune response as exemplified by the decrease of IL‐4 and IL‐13, stabilizing an appropriate balance between two macrophage phenotypes, selectively suppressing some function of macrophages, and so on. Moreover, the relationship between macrophages polarization and the development of a fibrous capsule, which increase the possibility of implantation failure, will be illustrated later. This review aims at providing readers a comprehensive understanding of FBR and its correlative treatment strategy.
Mitigative effects of epigallocatechin gallate in terms of diminishing apoptosis and oxidative stress generated by the combination of lead and amyloid peptides in human neuronal cells
Authors: Ayyalasomayajula Neelima , Ajumeera Rajanna , Chellu Chetty S. , Challa Suresh
Published: September 2019

Environmental exposure to lead (Pb) is reported to associate with the development of Alzheimer's disease, where the formation of β‐amyloid peptides (APs) of (1‐40), (1‐42), and (25‐35) is considered as the major risk factor. In this context, we aimed at investigating the effect of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a major flavonoid polyphenol available in green tea, in mitigating the individual and combined toxicity generated by Pb and β‐APs in terms of oxidative stress and apoptosis in human neuronal cells. SH‐SY5Y cells were exposed to Pb and β‐APs of (1‐40) and (25‐35) individually and in different combinations in the presence and absence of EGCG. The results indicated that EGCG mitigated both Pb‐ and β‐AP‐induced oxidative stress in scavenging reactive oxygen species and apoptosis by improving the expression levels of Bax and bcl2 and inhibiting annexin V and caspase‐3. Thus, our study shows that EGCG protects SH‐SY5Y cells against the cytotoxicity induced by Pb and β‐APs by decreasing oxidative stress and inhibiting apoptosis.
The combination of granulocyte‐monocyte apheresis and vedolizumab: A new treatment option for ulcerative colitis?
Authors: Rodríguez‐Lago Iago , Benítez José M. , Sempere Laura , Sáez‐González Esteban , Barreiro‐de Acosta Manuel , de Zárate Jone O. , Cabriada José L.
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To assess the effectiveness and safety of combining granulocyte‐monocyte apheresis (GMA) and vedolizumab (VDZ) in patients with refractory ulcerative colitis (UC).

Methods

This retrospective, multicentre pilot study included all UC patients receiving both GMA and VDZ. We recorded data on GMA sessions, demographic characteristics, and clinical response. Effectiveness was assessed 1 and 6 months after finishing the GMA using the partial Mayo score, C‐reactive protein, and fecal calprotectin levels. Data were also compiled on VDZ intensification, use of new immunomodulators and colectomy during follow‐up.

Results

Eight patients were included (mean age 46 years; 63% female; mean disease duration, 132 months; 50% E3). GMA was started after a loss of response to VDZ in all cases (25% primary nonresponse and 75% secondary loss of response). All had previously received anti‐TNF agents. VDZ was prescribed as the second‐, third‐, or fourth‐line biologic in 37%, 50%, and 13% of cases, respectively. Patients had a mean baseline partial Mayo score of 7.5 (SD 2.1) and received a median of 15 GMA sessions (range 5‐38). After a median follow‐up of 7.5 months (IQR 5‐12), partial Mayo score decreased after 1 and 6 months (P = .01 and .06, respectively). Three patients (38%) achieved steroid‐free clinical remission and five (63%) withdrew VDZ. Colectomy rate was 38%. No adverse events were observed during the combination therapy.

Conclusions

This small case series suggests that combining GMA with VDZ could be a treatment option in selected cases of UC with an inadequate response to this biologic agent.
Retracted: Upregulated microRNA‐31 inhibits oxidative stress‐induced neuronal injury through the JAK/STAT3 pathway by binding to PKD1 in mice with ischemic stroke
Authors: Li Jie , Lv Hui , Che Yu‐Qin
Published: September 2019

Ischemic stroke (IS), which is characterized by high morbidity, disability, and mortality, is recognized as a major cerebrovascular disease. MicroRNA‐31 (miR‐31) was reported to participate in the progression of brain disease. The present study was conducted in order to investigate the effect of miR‐31 on oxidative stress‐induced neuronal injury in IS mice with the involvement of protein kinase D1 (PKD1) and the JAK/STAT3 pathway. C57BL/6J mice were used to establish the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. Astrocytes were transfected with miR‐31 mimic, miR‐31 inhibitor, si‐PKD1, or JAK‐STAT3 pathway inhibitor. Following the establishment of an oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) model, the astrocytes were cocultured with neuronal OGD. Lower miR‐31, higher PKD1 expressions, and activated JAK/STAT3 pathway were found in both the MCAO and OGD models. miR‐31 could negatively target PKD1. In an MCAO model, overexpressing miR‐31 and silencing PKD1 reduced neuronal injury, cerebral infarct volume, neuron loss, and oxidative stress injury, inhibited the activation of JAK/STAT3 pathway and the expressions of PKD1, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor‐α, malondialdehyde, 4‐HNE, 8‐HOdG, caspase‐3, and Bax, but increased the superoxide dismutase content. In the OGD model, overexpression of miR‐31 and silencing of PKD1 attenuated oxidative stress‐induced neuronal injury, and diminished the lactate dehydrogenase leakage and reactive oxygen species level, accompanied by elevated neuronal viability. These results indicate that miR‐31 alleviates inflammatory response as well as an oxidative stress‐induced neuronal injury in IS mice by downregulating PKD1 and JAK/STAT3 pathway.
DNA‐methylation‐mediated silencing of miR‐7‐5p promotes gastric cancer stem cell invasion via increasing Smo and Hes1
Authors: Xin Lin , Liu Li , Liu Chuan , Zhou Li‐Qiang , Zhou Qi , Yuan Yi‐Wu , Li Shi‐Hao , Zhang Hou‐Ting
Published: September 2019

Cancer stem cells are undifferentiated cancer cells that have self‐renewal ability, a high tumorigenic activity, and a multilineage differentiation potential. MicroRNAs play a critical role in regulating gene expression during carcinogenesis. Here, we investigated the role of miR‐7 and the mechanism by which it is dysregulated in gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs). The stem cell marker, CD44, was used to sort GCSCs by fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. We found that CD44 (+) cells have higher invasiveness and form more number of sphere colonies than CD44 (−) cells. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) revealed that the miR‐7‐5p expression was remarkably downregulated in GCSCs but was significantly increased in the methionine‐deprived medium. The downregulation of miR‐7‐5p results from the increased DNA methylation in the promoter region using the methylation‐specific PCR. Overexpression of miR‐7‐5p reduced the formation of colony and decreased the invasion of GCSCs through targeting Smo and Hes1 and subsequent repressing Notch and Hedgehog signaling pathways in vitro. Notably, upregulating miR‐7‐5p inhibited the growth of tumor in the xenograft model. Hence, these data demonstrated that miR‐7‐5p represses GCSC invasion through inhibition of Smo and Hes1, which provides a potential therapeutic target of gastric cancer treatment.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir in HCV‐infected Japanese Subjects in Phase 3 CERTAIN‐1 and CERTAIN‐2 Trials
Authors: Suleiman Ahmed Abbas , Lin Chih‐Wei , Liu Wei , Eckert Doerthe , Mensing Sven , Burroughs Margaret , Kato Koji , Chayama Kazuaki , Kumada Hiromitsu , Oberoi Rajneet K.
Published: September 2019

Glecaprevir (GLE)/pibrentasvir (PIB) 300 mg/120 mg once daily (Mavyret/Maviret) is an all‐oral, pangenotypic, interferon‐ and ribavirin‐free combination regimen approved for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The objective of the current analyses was to characterize the pharmacokinetics (PK) of GLE/PIB in HCV‐infected Japanese patients. Data from 332 subjects enrolled in 2 Japan phase 3 trials, CERTAIN‐1 and CERTAIN‐2, were used in the analyses. Pharmacokinetics of GLE/PIB were characterized using a nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling. The analyses evaluated the impact of covariates (concomitant medications and demographic and clinical covariates such as renal impairment, effect of cirrhotic status) on GLE/PIB PK. GLE and PIB PK were described by 1‐ and 2‐compartment models, respectively. Presence of cirrhosis, age, and body weight were identified as significant covariates on GLE/PIB PK. A trend toward higher GLE and PIB exposures in older patients and higher PIB exposures in heavier patients was observed; however, these increases were not considered clinically meaningful. GLE and PIB exposures were higher in HCV‐infected subjects with cirrhosis (Child‐Pugh A; GLE area under the plasma concentration–time curve was 160% higher, and PIB area under the plasma concentration–time curve was 21% higher) compared to subjects without cirrhosis. Renal function (including subjects with end‐stage renal disease with dialysis) had no impact on GLE or PIB exposures. The GLE/PIB dose was well tolerated in the Japanese population, and no dose adjustment is needed for the evaluated intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
Who is seeking antiretroviral treatment for HIV now? Characteristics of patients presenting in Kenya and South Africa in 2017‐2018
Authors: Brennan Alana T , Maskew Mhairi , Larson Bruce A , Tsikhutsu Isaac , Bii Margaret , Vezi Lungisile , Fox Matthew P , Venter Willem DF , Ehrenkranz Peter , Rosen Sydney
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Many African countries have had at least two years’ experience with universal treatment eligibility for HIV. The literature contains few descriptions, though, of populations starting treatment since adoption of universal eligibility. Using baseline data from a clinical trial of same‐day ART initiation, we describe the populations presenting for HIV testing or care at study clinics in Kenya and South Africa in 2017‐18, during the era of same‐day initiation.

Methods

The Simplified Algorithm for Treatment Eligibility (SLATE) trials in Kenya (SLATE I) and South Africa (SLATE II) were multicenter, non‐blinded, individually randomized, pragmatic trials evaluating simple, standardized algorithms to determine eligibility for same‐day initiation of ART without relying on laboratory results, point of care tests or multiple clinic visits. In Kenya, enrolment occurred during July 2017 to April 2018. In South Africa, enrolment occurred during March to September 2018. We describe demographic, socioeconomic and clinical characteristics of patients randomized to the same‐day initiation arm for both studies.

Results and Discussion

A total of 240 and 296 participants were enrolled in Kenya and South Africa. The majority were female (59% and 64% respectively), with a median age of 35 years. In both countries, most subjects were newly diagnosed with HIV on the day of enrolment (62%, 55%), believed they already had adequate knowledge to begin ART (78%, 68%), and preferred to start ART immediately (same‐day) (98% in both countries). About 40% of all patients had at least one symptom related to tuberculosis (cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss) and/or cryptococcal meningitis (continuous headache). More than a third of patients (37%, 36%) presented with advanced disease (CD4 <200 cells/mm3), a fifth presented with very advanced disease (CD4 < 100), and approximately 1 in 20 presented with very advanced disease and were asymptomatic.

Conclusions

Despite >2 years of universal eligibility for ART in Kenya and South Africa, in 2017‐2018 more than half of HIV‐positive patients presenting at public sector clinics were not yet aware of their status, and more than a third presented for care with advanced HIV disease. These proportions remain similar to those observed before the introduction of universal eligibility.
Myocardial velocity, intra‐, and interventricular dyssynchrony evaluated by tissue phase mapping in pediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Berhane Haben , Ruh Alexander , Husain Nazia , Robinson Joshua D. , Rigsby Cynthia K. , Markl Michael
Published: September 2019

Background

Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is the standard method for detecting allograft rejection in pediatric heart transplants (Htx). As EMB is invasive and carries a risk of complications, there is a need for a noninvasive alternative for allograft monitoring.

Purpose

To quantify left and right ventricular (LV & RV) peak velocities, velocity twist, and intra‐/interventricular dyssynchrony using tissue phase mapping (TPM) in pediatric Htx compared with controls, and to explore the relationship between global cardiac function parameters and the number of rejection episodes to these velocities and intra‐/interventricular dyssynchrony.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Twenty Htx patients (age: 16.0 ± 3.1 years, 11 males) and 18 age‐ and sex‐matched controls (age: 15.5 ± 4.3 years, nine males).

Field Strength/Sequence

5T; 2D balanced cine steady‐state free‐precession (bSSFP), TPM (2D cine phase contrast with three‐directional velocity encoding).

Assessment

LV and RV circumferential, radial, and long‐axis velocity–time curves, global and segmental peak velocities were measured using TPM. Short‐axis bSSFP images were used to measure global LV and RV function parameters.

Statistical Tests

A normality test (Lilliefors test) was performed on all data. For comparisons, a t‐test was used for normally distributed data or a Wilcoxon rank‐sum test otherwise. Correlations were determined by a Pearson correlation.

Results

Htx patients had significantly reduced LV (P < 0.05–0.001) and RV (P < 0.05–0.001) systolic and diastolic global and segmental long‐axis velocities, reduced RV diastolic peak twist (P < 0.01), and presented with higher interventricular dyssynchrony for long‐axis and circumferential motions (P < 0.05–0.001). LV diastolic long‐axis dyssynchrony (r = 0.48, P = 0.03) and RV diastolic peak twist (r = –0.64, P = 0.004) significantly correlated with the total number of rejection episodes.

Data Conclusion

TPM detected differences in biventricular myocardial velocities in pediatric Htx patients compared with controls and indicated a relationship between Htx myocardial velocities and rejection history.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage: 3

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1212–1222.
MRI‐Derived Biomarkers Related to Sarcopenia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Codari Marina , Zanardo Moreno , di Sabato Maria Eugenia , Nocerino Elisabetta , Messina Carmelo , Sconfienza Luca Maria , Sardanelli Francesco
Published: September 2019

Background

MRI allows quantitatively assessing muscle quantity and quality.

Purpose

To summarize the role of MRI as a noninvasive technique for the identification of in vivo surrogate biomarker of sarcopenia.

Study Type

Systematic review.

Population

In April 2019, a systematic literature search (Medline/EMBASE) was performed to identify articles on the topic at issue.

Field Strength/Sequence

No field strength or sequence restrictions.

Assessment

After a literature search, study design, aim, sample size, demographics, magnetic field strength, imaged body region, MRI sequences, and imaging biomarker were extracted.

Statistical Tests

Data are presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results

From 69 records identified through search query, 18 articles matched the inclusion criteria. All articles were published from 2012 and had a mainly prospective design (14/18, 78%). Sample size ranged from 9 to 284 subjects, for a total of 1706 enrolled subjects. Healthy subjects were enrolled or retrospectively selected in 8/18 (44%) articles, corresponding to 658 (39%) healthy subjects. Magnetic field strength was 1.5 or 3T in 14/18 (78%) studies. The most analyzed body regions were the thigh (7/18, 39%) and the trunk (6/18, 33%). Stratifying studies according to their aim, 13/18 (72%) studies focused on muscle quality and quantity, 3/18 (17%) studies on outcome prediction, and 2/18 articles (11%) addressed both aims. A wide set of MRI biomarkers have been proposed. Muscle cross‐sectional area was the most used for muscle quantity estimation, while quantitative biomarkers of muscle fat content or fiber architecture were proposed to assess muscle quality.

Data Conclusion

The proposed biomarkers were assessed using different MRI sequences for different body regions in different subjects/patient cohorts, pointing out a lack of standardization on this topic. Future studies should test and compare the performance of proposed MRI biomarkers for sarcopenia characterization and quantification using a standardized experimental setup.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1117–1127.
Deep learning base modified MLP model for precise scattering parameter prediction of capacitive feed antenna
Authors: Calik Nurullah , Belen Mehmet Ali , Mahouti Peyman
Published: September 2019

The relations between the antennas' geometrical parameters and design specifications usually consist of linear and nonlinear components. Especially with the increase of the requested performance measures, the design procedure becomes much more complex due to the conflicting performance criteria or design limitations. To achieve a design with high performance with feasible design parameters, a fast, accurate, and reliable design optimization process is required. Herein, to have a fast, accurate, and high‐performance capacitive‐feed antenna model to be used in design optimization problems, a modified multi‐layer perceptron (M2LP) model has been proposed. The M2LP is an equivalent convolutional neural network (CNN) model of a standard multilayer perceptron (MLP), where instead of traditional training parameters of MLP, more advanced training parameters of CNN models such as batch‐norm layer, leaky‐rectified linear unit (ReLU) layer, and Adam training algorithm had been used. Furthermore, the M2LP model had been used in a design optimization process and the obtained optimal antenna had been prototyped using 3D printing technology for justification of the proposed M2LP model with experimental results. As can be seen from the results, the proposed M2LP model is a fast, accurate, and reliable regression model for design optimization of microwave antennas.
A new circulation index for the detection of monsoon intensity
Authors: Wilson Shinu Sheela , Mohanakumar Kesavapillai
Published: September 2019

The Asian summer monsoon is characterized by the presence of a low‐level westerly jet stream (LLJ) in the lower troposphere and a tropical easterly jet stream (TEJ) in the upper troposphere. It is interesting to develop an index based on the vertical zonal wind shear and associated rainfall intensity over a monsoon region. The conventional method used to estimate wind shear takes the difference in wind speed between the zonal winds at 850 and 200 hPa. These two fixed levels do not represent the maximum wind speeds at these altitudes and therefore fail to obtain the maximum vertical wind shear. In this study, we propose a new index (the Shinu Mohan [SM] index) by defining the vertical zonal wind shear between the core heights of the low‐level jet stream in the lower troposphere and the TEJ in the upper troposphere, which represents the maximum zonal wind shear in a vertical column of the atmosphere over the summer monsoon region. The core heights of the LLJ and TEJ vary depending on the terrain and the strength of the monsoon circulation. The SM index provides precise vertical shear at each grid point and represents better spatial variability under different terrain conditions. Vertical shear plays a major role in convection and the production of rainfall over a region. Vertical wind shear during extreme monsoon events and the active and break spells of monsoons were analysed by using the SM index and conventional indices. It is interesting to note that the newly defined SM index gives a much better representation of the monsoon intensity compared to conventional indices.
An approach to analysis of primary amines by a combination of thin‐layer chromatography and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry in conjunction with post‐chromatographic derivatization
Authors: Borisov Roman , Esparza Cesar , Polovkov Nikolai , Topolyan Artyom , Zaikin Vladimir
Published: September 2019

On‐spot derivatization has been suggested for the modification of primary amine containing compounds for their analysis by thin‐layer chromatography hyphenated with matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry. The proposed approach was based on post‐chromatographic treatment of separated analytes inside the chromatographic zones on the thin‐layer chromatography plates by tris(2,6‐dimethoxyphenyl)methilium reagent. The derivatives, containing permanent positive charge, reveal exceptionally intense peaks of their cationic moieties and high signal/noise ratio in mass spectra recorded directly from the plates. The method was tested on a series of aliphatic, aromatic, and amine‐containing pharmaceuticals.
Realization of Free‐Space Long‐Distance Self‐Healing Bessel Beams
Authors: Vetter Christian , Steinkopf Ralf , Bergner Klaus , Ornigotti Marco , Nolte Stefan , Gross Herbert , Szameit Alexander
Published: September 2019

A new approach for generating long‐distance self‐healing Bessel beams, which is based on a ring‐shaped (annular) lens and a spherical lens in 4f‐configuration, is reported. With this, diffraction‐free light evolution of a zeroth order Bessel beam over several meters is shown and available scaling opportunities that surpass current technologies by far are discussed. Furthermore, it is demonstrated how this setup can be adapted to create Bessel beam superpositions, realizing the longest ever reported optical conveyor beam and helicon beam, respectively. Last, the self‐healing capabilities of the beams are tested against strong opaque and non‐opaque scatterers, which again emphasizes the great potential of this new method.
Ex vivo and animal study of the blue diode laser, Tm fiber laser, and their combination for laparoscopic partial nephrectomy
Authors: Arkhipova Valeriya , Enikeev Mikhail , Laukhtina Ekaterina , Kurkov Alexander , Andreeva Viktoriya , Yaroslavsky Ilya , Altschuler Gregory
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of using a novel blue diode laser (blue laser), a thulium fiber laser (Tm laser), and their combination as a directed‐energy surgical tool in laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The blue laser emitting at 442 nm, the Tm laser emitting at 1,940 nm wavelengths, and the combination of them were tested. First, cutting and coagulative abilities of the lasers were characterized ex vivo on porcine kidney in air and CO2. Histological staining was performed to assess the efficiency of ablation and coagulation. Next, experimental LPN was performed on a porcine model at zero ischemia. Upper and lower segments of both kidneys were resected. Total operation time and resection time were measured; bleeding and carbonization were evaluated.

Results

Ex vivo data show that laser‐induced ablation and coagulation processes do not differ substantially between CO2 and air environments. Histological analysis of ex vivo incisions demonstrates that the blue laser produced deep ablation with relatively narrow coagulation zone, whereas Tm laser was less efficient in terms of ablation but possessed excellent coagulative properties. Experimental LPN revealed that the blue laser provided fast cutting with minimal carbonization, whereas Tm laser induced slow cutting with strong carbonization. The combination of the blue and Tm lasers provided the most promising results demonstrating the highest resection rate, almost carbonization free resection surface and clinically acceptable hemostasis enabling LPN without the need for vessel clamping.

Conclusions

The blue laser can be efficiently utilized in LPN. Furthermore, the combination of the blue and Tm lasers into a single modality may be beneficial for further development of successful laser‐assisted LPN. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Delayed Sleeve Gastrectomy Following Liver Transplantation: A 5‐Year Experience
Authors: Morris Mackenzie C. , Jung Andrew D. , Kim Young , Lee Tiffany C. , Kaiser Tiffany E. , Thompson Jonathan R. , Bari Khurram , Shah Shimul A. , Cohen Robert M. , Schauer Daniel P. , Smith Eric P. , Diwan Tayyab S.
Published: September 2019

Obesity has become an epidemic in the United States over the past decade, and recent studies have shown this trend in the liver transplantation (LT) population. These patients may be candidates for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) to promote significant and sustained weight loss to prevent recurrence of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. However, safety remains a concern, and efficacy in this setting is uncertain. A single‐institution database from 2014 to 2018 was queried for patients undergoing LSG following LT. The selection criteria for surgery were consistent with National Institutes of Health guidelines, and patients were at least 6 months after LT. A total of 15 patients (median age, 59.0 years; Caucasian, 86.7%; and female, 60%) underwent LSG following LT. Median time from LT to LSG was 2.2 years with a median follow‐up period of 2.6 years. The median hospital length of stay (LOS) was 2 days after LSG. Mortality and rate of liver allograft rejection was 0, and there was 1 postoperative complication (a surgical site infection). Following LSG, body mass index (BMI) decreased from 42.7 to 35.9 kg/m2 (P < 0.01), and in 12 patients with at least 1 year of follow‐up, the total body weight loss was 20.6%. Following LSG in patients with diabetes, the median daily insulin requirements decreased from 98 (49‐118) to 0 (0‐29) units/day (P = 0.02), and 60% discontinued insulin. Post‐LT patients had a similar decrease in BMI and reduction in comorbidities at 1 year compared with a matched non‐LT patient cohort. In the largest patient series to date, we show that LSG following LT is safe, effective, and does not increase the incidence of liver allograft rejection. Larger longer‐term studies are needed to confirm underlying metabolic changes following LSG.
Multiple proteins arising from a single gene: The role of the Spa33 variants in Shigella T3SS regulation
Authors: Kadari Mahendar , Lakhloufi Dalila , Delforge Valérie , Imbault Virginie , Communi David , Smeesters Pierre , Botteaux Anne
Published: September 2019

Shigella invasion and dissemination in intestinal epithelial cells relies on a type 3 secretion system (T3SS), which mediates translocation of virulence proteins into host cells. T3SSs are composed of three major parts: an extracellular needle, a basal body, and a cytoplasmic complex. Three categories of proteins are hierarchically secreted: (a) the needle components, (b) the translocator proteins which form a pore (translocon) inside the host cell membrane and (c) the effectors interfering with the host cell signaling pathways. In the absence of host cell contact, the T3SS is maintained in an “off” state by the presence of a tip complex. Secretion is activated by host cell contact which allows the release of a gatekeeper protein called MxiC. In this work, we have investigated the role of Spa33, a component of the cytoplasmic complex, in the regulation of secretion. The spa33 gene encodes a 33‐kDa protein and a smaller fragment of 12 kDa (Spa33C) which are both essential components of the cytoplasmic complex. We have shown that the spa33 gene gives rise to 5 fragments of various sizes. Among them, three are necessary for T3SS. Interestingly, we have shown that Spa33 is implicated in the regulation of secretion. Indeed, the mutation of a single residue in Spa33 induces an effector mutant phenotype, in which MxiC is sequestered. Moreover, we have shown a direct interaction between Spa33 and MxiC.
SAR analysis of directive antenna on anatomically real breast phantoms for microwave holography
Authors: Kumari Vineeta , Sheoran Gyanendra , Kanumuri Tirupathiraju
Published: September 2019

Microwave holography utilizes antennae for the detection of cancerous tissues in the human breast. The safety assessment of an antenna is required prior to its radiation interaction with biological tissues. In this work, a specially designed and developed Vivaldi antenna with directivity at 45° for microwave holographic imaging has been presented. A detailed simulation of Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) and thermal analysis due to the radiation exposure of the designed antenna on self‐designed anatomically real breast phantoms is performed in CST environment. SAR values for 3D printed breast phantoms are also calculated experimentally. The quantitative results of SAR reveal the variation of ±10% in between the simulation and experimental results. It has been found that SAR due to the radiation of the designed antenna lies in the permissible limit. The thermal analysis in CST shows the rise of 0.096% in temperature after the exposure of 2 hours. Hence, the antenna can be used in microwave holography for breast cancer detection.
Model‐based super‐resolution reconstruction of T2 maps
Authors: Bano Wajiha , Piredda Gian Franco , Davies Mike , Marshall Ian , Golbabaee Mohammad , Meuli Reto , Kober Tobias , Thiran Jean‐Philippe , Hilbert Tom
Published: September 2019

Purpose

High‐resolution isotropic T2 mapping of the human brain with multi‐echo spin‐echo (MESE) acquisitions is challenging. When using a 2D sequence, the resolution is limited by the slice thickness. If used as a 3D acquisition, specific absorption rate limits are easily exceeded due to the high power deposition of nonselective refocusing pulses. A method to reconstruct 1‐mm3 isotropic T2 maps is proposed based on multiple 2D MESE acquisitions. Data were undersampled (10‐fold) to compensate for the prolonged scan time stemming from the super‐resolution acquisition.

Theory and Methods

The proposed method integrates a classical super‐resolution with an iterative model‐based approach to reconstruct quantitative maps from a set of undersampled low‐resolution data. The method was tested on numerical and multipurpose phantoms, and in vivo data. T2 values were assessed with a region‐of‐interest analysis using a single‐slice spin‐echo and a fully sampled MESE acquisition in a phantom, and a MESE acquisition in healthy volunteers.

Results

Numerical simulations showed that the best trade‐off between acceleration and number of low‐resolution datasets is 10‐fold acceleration with 4 acquisitions (acquisition time = 18 min). The proposed approach showed improved resolution over low‐resolution images for both phantom and brain. Region‐of‐interest analysis of the phantom compartments revealed that at shorter T2, the proposed method was comparable with the fully sampled MESE. For the volunteer data, the T2 values found in the brain structures were consistent across subjects (8.5‐13.1 ms standard deviation).

Conclusion

The proposed method addresses the inherent limitations associated with high‐resolution T2 mapping and enables the reconstruction of 1 mm3 isotropic relaxation maps with a 10 times faster acquisition.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the vocal fold oscillations with sub‐millisecond temporal resolution
Authors: Fischer Johannes , Abels Timo , Özen Ali Caglar , Echternach Matthias , Richter Bernhard , Bock Michael
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The temporal resolution of the MRI acquisition is intrinsically limited by the duration of the spatial encoding, which is typically on the order of milliseconds. Faster motion such as the vibration of the vocal folds during phonation cannot be imaged with conventional MRI as this would require sampling frequencies in the kilo‐Hertz range. Here, a faster MRI acquisition strategy is presented that encodes a 1D periodic motion at a temporal resolution that is an order of magnitude higher compared to conventional MRI.

Methods

The proposed method encodes the position of an object moving along 1 dimension by applying very short phase encoding gradients along the same direction. This reduces the temporal resolution from the repetition time (TR) to the duration of the phase encoding gradients, which in this work was well below 1 ms. The technique is applied to the vocal fold oscillations and the position of the vocal folds is measured simultaneously using electroglottography (EGG). Simulations of the point spread function for regular encoding and the proposed method are performed as well.

Results

With this new phase, encoding strategy oscillations of the human vocal folds up to a frequency of 145 Hz could be dynamically imaged at 10 images per cycle. Simulations show the advantage of this method over conventional imaging of fast moving objects.

Conclusion

A new method for MR imaging of fast moving spins is presented allowing a temporal resolution below 1 ms at a spatial resolution below 1 mm, circumventing TR as the limit for temporal resolution.
Finite volume discretization for poroelastic media with fractures modeled by contact mechanics
Authors: Berge Runar L. , Berre Inga , Keilegavlen Eirik , Nordbotten Jan M. , Wohlmuth Barbara
Published: September 2019

A fractured poroelastic body is considered where the opening of the fractures is governed by a nonpenetration law, whereas slip is described by a Coulomb‐type friction law. This physical model results in a nonlinear variational inequality problem. The variational inequality is rewritten as a complementary function, and a semismooth Newton method is used to solve the system of equations. For the discretization, we use a hybrid scheme where the displacements are given in terms of degrees of freedom per element, and an additional Lagrange multiplier representing the traction is added on the fracture faces. The novelty of our method comes from combining the Lagrange multiplier from the hybrid scheme with a finite volume discretization of the poroelastic Biot equation, which allows us to directly impose the inequality constraints on each subface. The convergence of the method is studied for several challenging geometries in 2D and 3D, showing that the convergence rates of the finite volume scheme do not deteriorate when it is coupled to the Lagrange multipliers. Our method is especially attractive for the poroelastic problem because it allows for a straightforward coupling between the matrix deformation, contact conditions, and fluid pressure.
Geographic Availability of Physicians Certified by the American Board of Obesity Medicine Relative to Obesity Prevalence
Authors: Gudzune Kimberly A. , Johnson Veronica R. , Bramante Carolyn T. , Stanford Fatima Cody
Published: September 2019

Objective

The objective of this study is to determine the distribution of adult and pediatric American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) diplomates relative to the prevalence of obesity by US state.

Methods

Data from the ABOM physician directory were used to determine original specialty and US state. Physicians were labeled as “adult medicine” physicians (i.e., internal medicine, family medicine, or internal medicine and pediatrics), “pediatric medicine” physicians (i.e., pediatrics, family medicine, or internal medicine and pediatrics), and “other physicians” (i.e., surgical specialty, other specialty, or unknown). Prevalence of obesity by state, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was used for adults and adolescents in 2017 and for children in 2014. Counts of ABOM‐certified adult medicine physicians and pediatric medicine physicians were conducted relative to obesity prevalence by state.

Results

A total of 2,577 US‐based ABOM‐certified physicians were included (79% from adult medicine, 38% from pediatric medicine, and 15% from other fields). All US states had more than one ABOM‐certified adult medicine physician, although geographic disparities existed in physician availability relative to obesity prevalence. Fewer pediatric medicine ABOM diplomates were available in all states.

Conclusions

Promotion of ABOM training and certification in certain geographic locations and among pediatric physicians may help address disparities in ABOM diplomate availability relative to obesity burden.
BTK inhibitors synergise with 5‐FU to treat drug‐resistant TP53‐null colon cancers
Authors: Lavitrano Marialuisa , Ianzano Leonarda , Bonomo Sara , Cialdella Annamaria , Cerrito Maria Grazia , Pisano Fabio , Missaglia Carola , Giovannoni Roberto , Romano Gabriele , McLean Chelsea M , Voest Emile E , D'Amato Filomena , Noli Barbara , Ferri Gian Luca , Agostini Marco , Pucciarelli Salvatore , Helin Kristian , Leone Biagio E , Canzonieri Vincenzo , Grassilli Emanuela
Published: September 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth cause of death from cancer worldwide mainly due to the high incidence of drug‐resistance. During a screen for new actionable targets in drug‐resistant tumours we recently identified p65BTK – a novel oncogenic isoform of Bruton's tyrosine kinase. Studying three different cohorts of patients here we show that p65BTK expression correlates with histotype and cancer progression. Using drug‐resistant TP53‐null colon cancer cells as a model we demonstrated that p65BTK silencing or chemical inhibition overcame the 5‐fluorouracil resistance of CRC cell lines and patient‐derived organoids and significantly reduced the growth of xenografted tumours. Mechanistically, we show that blocking p65BTK in drug‐resistant cells abolished a 5‐FU‐elicited TGFB1 protective response and triggered E2F‐dependent apoptosis. Taken together, our data demonstrated that targeting p65BTK restores the apoptotic response to chemotherapy of drug‐resistant CRCs and gives a proof‐of‐concept for suggesting the use of BTK inhibitors in combination with 5‐FU as a novel therapeutic approach in CRC patients. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poor concordance among drug compendia for proposed interactions between enzyme‐inducing antiepileptic drugs and direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Acton Emily K. , Willis Allison W. , Gelfand Michael A. , Kasner Scott E.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To assess concordance regarding proposed interactions between enzyme‐inducing antiepileptic drugs (EI‐AEDs) and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in leading, international drug compendia.

Methods

We measured consistency of interaction reporting for each DOAC with a group of potent EI‐AEDs among eight provider and consumer‐focused drug compendia. Discrepant severity ranking systems were consolidated on a 0 to 4 scale. Percent agreement (PA) and Scott/Fleiss' Kappa (к) were used to quantify inter‐compendia agreement on interaction listings, with linear weighting when consolidated severity rankings were taken into account (wPA and wк, respectively).

Results

For dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban, poor inter‐compendia concordance was observed for interaction listings with EI‐AEDs, with and without accounting for severity rankings (wPA: 0.54‐0.72/wк: −0.08‐0.03, and PA 0.47‐0.79/к: −0.09‐0.09, respectively). Conversely, betrixaban was consistently listed as not interacting with EI‐AEDs in almost all assessed compendia, despite overlap in P‐glycoprotein‐based transport with other DOACs. Only 6/20 (30%) EI‐AED/DOAC interactions were listed in all eight databases, and even in these six cases, severity rankings were universally discordant. Extreme inconsistencies in interaction reporting (some compendia assigning the highest possible severity ranking, while others reported no interactions) were observed in half of the individually examined interactions (10/20).

Conclusions

Drug compendia are highly inconsistent in the inclusion and reported severity of interactions between EI‐AEDs and DOACs. Generation of high‐quality, real‐world evidence from large‐scale outcome studies is imperative to resolve discordance and provide clarity for clinical guidelines.
Enhancement of the processing window and performance of polyamide 1010/bio‐based high‐density polyethylene blends by melt mixing with natural additives
Authors: Quiles‐Carrillo Luis , Montanes Nestor , Fombuena Vicent , Balart Rafael , Torres‐Giner Sergio
Published: September 2019

This work reports the enhancement of the processing window and of the mechanical and thermal properties of biopolymer blends of polyamide 1010 (PA1010) and bio‐based high‐density polyethylene (bio‐HDPE) at 70/30 (w/w) achieved by means of natural additives. The overall performance of the binary blend melt‐mixed without additives was poor due to both the relatively low thermal stability of bio‐HDPE at the processing temperatures of PA1010, that is, 210–240 °C, and the lack of or poor miscibility between the two biopolymers. Gallic acid, a natural phenolic compound, was added at 0.8 parts per hundred resin (phr) of biopolymer blend to enhance the thermal stability of the green polyolefin and therefore enlarge the processing window of the binary blend. Maleinized linseed oil, a multi‐functionalized vegetable oil, was then incorporated at 5 phr to compatibilize the biopolymers and the performance of the blend was also compared with that of a conventional petroleum‐derived copolymer, namely poly[ethylene‐co‐(acrylic acid)]. The resultant biopolymer blends showed a marked enhancement in thermal stability and also improved toughness when both natural additives were combined. This work can potentially serve as a sound base study for the mechanical recycling of similar blends containing bio‐based but non‐biodegradable polymers. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Hope into action: How clusters of hope relate to success‐oriented behavior in school
Authors: Dixson Dante D.
Published: September 2019

Several studies have found that higher hope is associated with higher academic achievement. Although scholars have asserted that this association is the result of higher hope leading to an increased likelihood that students will engage success‐oriented behaviors (e.g., participating in class, completing homework assignments), very little empirical research has been done to test this assertion. In this study, cluster analyses yielded three clusters of hope (high, average, and low) in a high school sample (N = 447) and a college sample (N = 375). Differences among hope clusters were examined across three domains of indicators—engagement, disengagement, and motivational variables—associated with success‐oriented behavior in school. Results from both samples indicated that students with higher levels of hope reported higher engagement, higher motivation, and lower disengagement, with medium to large effect sizes. These results have implications for both hope research and scaling psychosocial interventions.
Crosslinking network of bio‐based bis‐functional epoxides derived from trans‐limonene oxide
Authors: Morinaga Hisatoyo , Ogawa Natsumi , Sakamoto Mayu , Morikawa Hiroshi
Published: September 2019

The thiol‐ene reaction between trans‐limonene oxide (trans‐LO) and ethane‐1,2‐dithiol in the presence of triethylborane affords a bio‐based bis‐functional epoxide (bis‐trans‐LO). The crosslinking reaction of bis‐trans‐LO with branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI; Mn = 600; BPEI600) at a feed ratio of bis‐trans‐LO/BPEI600 = 57/43 (wt/wt) yields the corresponding network polymer with Td10 (10% thermal decomposition temperature) of 304.7 °C in 98% yield. In contrast, negligible amounts of network polymer are obtained by the reaction of bis‐LO (bis‐functional epoxide derived from cis and trans‐LO) and BPEI600 regardless of the feed ratio. The mechanical strengths as measured by direct tensile tests of the network polymers derived from bis‐trans‐LO and BPEI600,1800 (Mn = 600 and 1800) were approximately 16 and 11 times higher than that of bis‐LO and BPEI1800, respectively. The tensile shear strengths of the metal‐to‐metal adhesive bonds induced by bis‐trans‐LO and BPEI600,1800 were 9.5 and 14.1 MPa, respectively. DMA revealed that the storage modulus of the network polymer derived from bis‐trans‐LO and BPEI1800 in the rubber region was higher than that of the material prepared from bis‐LO and BPEI1800, indicating higher crosslink density of the bis‐trans‐LO/BPEI1800 system. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 2466–2473