bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of implementing a multifaceted intervention to reduce rates of cesarean section: A quality‐improvement study
Authors: Zahumensky Jozef , Psenkova Petra , Dolezal Pavel , Otapkova Petra , Papcun Peter , Ferianec Vladimir , Krizko Marian
Published: August 2020

Objective

To assess the impact of a multifaceted intervention on reducing the rate of cesarean section (CS) without negatively affecting the rate of perinatal mortality.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of CS was performed before and after the implementation of a quality‐improvement (QI) intervention in a university‐affiliated teaching hospital in the Slovak Republic. All women who gave birth in 2015 (pre‐intervention) and 2018 (post‐intervention) were included. The different components of the intervention were introduced from September 2016. The main outcome was the overall rate of CS. A subanalysis by Robson groups was undertaken.

Results

After the implementation of the QI intervention, there was a 33.5% reduction in the rate of CS compared to the pre‐intervention period where the rate reduced from 33.7% to 22.4% (P<0.001; relative risk 0.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.61–0.72; Number Needed to Treat (NNT) 8.8, 95% CI 7.3–11.2). The main contributors were the reduction in elective CS for non‐obstetric reasons, a reduction in intrapartum CS for failure to progress, and an increase in the number of vaginal births after CS in the post‐intervention period.

Conclusion

The implementation of the composite QI intervention led to a significant reduction in the rate of CS without affecting the rate of perinatal mortality.
Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor on fetal vessels among obese pregnant women
Authors: Janbakhishov Turab , Çağlayan Erkan , Acet Ferruh , Altunyurt Sabahattin , Özer Erdener
Published: August 2020

Objective

To determine the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in placental hypoperfusion in obesity.

Methods

The prospective study enrolled women with a first‐trimester singleton pregnancy in Izmir, Turkey, between January and April 2011. Participants were divided into three groups: obese (body mass index [BMI, calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters] >30) with cesarean delivery; normal weight (BMI <30) with vaginal delivery (NVD); and healthy controls (BMI <30) with cesarean delivery. Before delivery, serum C‐reactive protein (CRP), and uterine and fetal Doppler measurements were taken. VEGF was evaluated immunohistochemically from the umbilical cord.

Results

Overall, 109 women completed the study: obesity group (n=13, 11.9%), NVD group (n=50, 45.9%), and control group (n=46, 42.2%). Serum CRP was higher in the obesity group than in the control or NVD groups (P=0.009). VEGF score was highest in the NVD group (9.39 ± 3.11), and lowest in the obesity group (4.58 ± 2.78) (P<0.001). VEGF score decreased by 0.81 for each increase in BMI of 1 (P=0.002).

Conclusions

Maternal obesity was related to decreased VEGF expression. Although not supported by Doppler findings, decreased VEGF expression owing to maternal obesity might trigger endothelial dysfunction and inflammation.
Applications of fluorescent materials in the detection of alkaline phosphatase activity
Authors: Guo Jiantao , Yu Hongbo , Cui Tingting
Published: August 2020

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is important in the diagnosis of many diseases. Because ALP is used to detect biomarkers for many diseases, many researchers conduct investigations to develop ALP detection strategies. The use of fluorescent material has attracted attention because of the technique's high sensitivity and the low sample volume required. Herein, we review and discuss the working mechanisms and advantages of four main categories:DNA fluorescent probes, molecular fluorescent probes, chemical coordination‐based probes, and nanoparticle probes. Development prospects and trends are also discussed.
Visible light‐excited surface plasmon resonance charge transfer significantly improves the photocatalytic activities of ZnO semiconductor for pollutants degradation
Authors: Yasmeen Humaira , Zada Amir , Ali Sharafat , Khan Imran , Ali Wajid , Khan Waliullah , Khan Muhammad , Anwar Natasha , Ali Asif , Huerta‐Flores Ali M. , Subhan Fazle
Published: August 2020

To effectively address environmental pollution, we synthesized Au‐loaded ZnO nanocomposites and applied for the photocatalytic degradation of 2‐chlorophenol (2‐CP) under visible light irradiation. The as‐prepared nanophotocatalysts delivered much improved photocatalytic degradation activities as compared to the bare ZnO nanoparticles and 32% of the pollutant was degraded with 2AuZnO in 1 hr. These improved photoactivities are attributed to the extended visible light absorption due to the surface plasmon resonance property of the loaded Au nanoparticles. Moreover, Au nanoparticles played important role in charge separation by inducting excited electrons to the conduction band of ZnO photocatalyst and surface catalysis as confirmed from photoluminescence spectra and amount of the generated hydroxyl radicals. The trapping experiments confirmed that positive holes were the major degrading species during the photocatalytic degradation of 2‐CP. This work provides a feasible way to improve the photocatalysis by introducing a proper amount of noble metals over the surface of semiconductor photocatalysts.
Community psychology and the crisis of care
Authors: Malherbe Nick
Published: August 2020

In addition to the twinned crises of ecology and political economy, we face today a crisis of care. The crisis of care, I contend, is fundamentally a political and an ethical crisis. In this short commentary, I outline the structural (i.e., systemic) and reproductive (i.e., labour) character of this crisis, using the COVID‐19 pandemic as an example. From here, I argue for the imperative to centre an expansive conception of care in critical community psychology work. Specifically, I posit that by working with and alongside activist care workers, community psychologists can assist in building socially just modalities of care. After reflecting on my work with collective caring initiatives, I offer five (tentative) guiding principles for a community psychology that is committed to addressing the crisis of care, namely: (1) commitment to building political coalitions; (2) commitment to refuting capitalist conceptions of care; (3) commitment to expanding conceptions of care; (4) commitment to embracing the psychological consequences of care work; and (5) a politicoethical commitment.
Appraisal of 5‐year recurrence‐free survival after surgery in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yoon So Jeong , Shin Sang Hyun , Yoon So Kyung , Jung Ji Hye , You Yunghun , Han In Woong , Choi Dong Wook , Heo Jin Seok
Published: August 2020

Background/Purpose

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is regarded as incurable, with a limited survival rate after curative resection. The aim of this study was to explore long‐term survival and late recurrence of PDAC after surgery.

Methods

Medical data of 859 patients who underwent resection between 1995 and 2014 were retrospectively examined. The clinicopathological features of the 5‐year recurrence‐free survivors and the patients with recurrent disease after 5 years were investigated separately.

Results

Among the 768 patients who were finally included in this study, elevated CA 19‐9, tumor size, poor differentiation, and positive lymph node metastasis were associated with recurrence. In 89 patients with 5‐year RFS, age, tumor size, differentiation, and lymph node metastasis were statistically significant predictive factors. Among these patients, disease relapse occurred in 11 patients; age was the only difference compared to those who remained free of recurrence.

Conclusions

Most prognosticators failed to predict the risk of recurrence in the 5 years following surgery for PDAC, and recurrence can occur even at time points up to 100 months. Therefore, cure of PDAC cannot be guaranteed by a 5‐year recurrence‐free interval, and further studies into the inherent nature of PDAC are needed to develop adequate surveillance systems which may lead to improvements in survival.
Synthesis, characterization and antioxidant activity of bis (arylsulfonylmethyl/arylaminosulfonylmethylazolyl) pyridines
Authors: Gunthanakkala Anil Kumar , Mangali Madhu Sekhar , Venkatapuram Padmavathi , Adivireddy Padmaja
Published: August 2020

A new class of bis(arylsulfonylmethylazolyl)pyridines and bis(arylaminosulfonylmethyl‐azolyl)pyridines were synthesized from the synthetic intermediates methyl arylsulfonylacetic acid hydrazide and methyl arylaminosulfonylacetic acid hydrazide adopting a green methodology‐ultrasonication. All the synthesized compounds were resulted in higher yield and in shorter reaction times. The spectral parameters such as IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, mass and microanalyzes were used to determine the structures of all the synthesized compounds and were assayed for antioxidant activity. The bis(arylaminosulfonylmethylazolyl)pyridines showed higher radical scavenging activity than the bis(arylsulfonylmethylazolyl)pyridines. Besides, unsubstituted, and methyl substituted compounds exhibited greater activity. Among all the tested compounds 8b and 11b were identified as potential antioxidants.
Asymmetric trends of extreme temperature over the Loess Plateau during 1998–2018
Authors: Ding Zhiyong , Pu Jia , Meng Lihong , Lu Ruijie , Wang Yuyang , Li Yupeng , Dong Yiyang , Wang Shuzhi
Published: August 2020

A slowdown in the warming rate of the global mean surface temperature has been observed since late 1990s. However, it is still controversial whether the spatiotemporal variability of extreme temperature events will increase after global warming slowdown, and whether the regional diversity of change trends will increase. Here, we investigated the variations in extreme temperature indices over the Loess Plateau in China since 1961 and focused on the recent global warming slowdown (1998–2018). We found that, during 1961–2018, all the extreme temperature indices showed a significant warming trend and its intensity varied according to extreme temperature indices over different regions. A warming slowdown of annual mean temperature during 1998–2018 was primarily due to the slight increases of annual mean maximum temperatures (TXm) while the annual mean minimum temperature (TNm) still indicated prominently warming trends. During the recent warming slowdown period, the warm indices showed continued intensification of the warming trends, while the cold indices showed a slight cooling trend. Moreover, all extreme temperature indices showed the largest warming trend in summer and a slight cooling trend in winter. Overall, the extreme temperature events have become more diverse in spatial and temporal, indicating that regional climate are more unstable than previously reported for this region. Further analyses revealed that the extreme temperature events during the recent warming slowdown were primarily the result of the natural variability of the climate system, especially the large‐scale ocean–atmosphere interactions of the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.
Introducing new climate indices for identifying wet/dry spells within an Madden‐Julian Oscillation phase
Authors: Nazemosadat Mohammad Jafar , Shahgholian Kokab , Ghaedamini Habiballah , Nazemosadat Elham
Published: August 2020

Daily values of precipitation in southwestern parts of Iran along with the corresponding Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) phase are analysed to introduce some auxiliary indicators that can identify the wet and dry spells within a particular MJO phase. As a case study, the identification procedure focuses on phase 1 during the rainy season (Nov–Apr). The study shows that this phase contains two opposite spells, referred to as spells with pervasive precipitation (SWPP) and spells with widespread dryness (SWWD). Although the precipitation characteristics are essentially different between SWPP and SWWD, their associated MJO indices are found statistically identical. Therefore, the MJO–precipitation relationship fails to identify the wet/dry spells within an MJO phase. To resolve this deficiency, other climate indicators, which behave differently between these two spells, are introduced. The westward moisture flux over equatorial parts of the Indian Ocean and the northeastward moisture flux over the North African tropics are up to seven times stronger in the SWPP compared to SWWD. The dominance of a strong cyclonic (anticyclonic) circulation over the eastern side of the Mediterranean Sea and the negative (positive) west–east temperature gradient over southern parts of Iran are introduced as SWPP (SWWD) indicators. The study reveals that the SWPP (SWWD) coincides with a strong (weak) convection dipole that resembles the positive Indian Ocean dipole. The intensified (weakened) wind speed in the subtropical jet stream and persistence of the jet‐exit‐regions above Iran (Egypt and Saudi Arabia) are other SWPP (SWWD) indicators. Negative (positive) anomalies of sea surface temperature over the North Atlantic Ocean, the Black, Mediterranean, and Caspian Seas, as well as the Persian Gulf, signify the prevalence of the SWPP (SWWD). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that auxiliary indices are utilized to improve the MJO–precipitation relationship in southwestern Iran.
Early pregnancy levels of gingival crevicular fluid matrix metalloproteinases‐8 and ‐9 are associated with the severity of periodontitis and the development of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Chaparro Alejandra , Realini Ornella , Hernández Marcela , Albers Daniela , Weber Laura , Ramírez Valeria , Param Fernanda , Kusanovic Juan Pedro , Sorsa Timo , Rice Gregory Edward , Illanes Sebastián E.
Published: August 2020

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is increasing worldwide and women with a history of GDM are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes which is a risk factor for periodontitis. The aim of this study was to explore the association between the concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8 and ‐9 in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) during early pregnancy with the periodontal diagnosis and the risk of GDM development.

Methods

A prospective cohort study, including 314 women, enrolled at 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy was conducted. A complete maternal/obstetric and periodontal exam was performed, and GCF samples were obtained for the MMP‐8 and ‐9 determination by Multiplex Elisa Assays. Mann‐Whitney test; Spearman's correlation and log‐binomial regression model estimated the association between MMPs concentration in GCF and GDM.

Results

Fourteen percent of the pregnancies were diagnosed with GDM. An increase in the concentration of MMP‐8 and ‐9 in women with periodontitis stage III and IV compared to periodontitis stage I was observed (99.31 ng/mL [IQR: 85.32] versus 71.95 ng/mL [IQR: 54.04], and 262.4 ng/mL [IQR: 312.55] versus 114.1 ng/mL [IQR: 184.94], respectively). Women who developed GDM showed increased concentrations of MMP‐8 and ‐9 in GCF since the beginning of pregnancy (P = 0.0381; P = 0.0302, respectively). MMP‐8 concentration in GCF was associated with GDM (RR: 1.19; P = 0.045; CI 95% 1.00 to 1.40; and RR: 1.20; P = 0.063; CI 95% 0.99 to 1.45 in the adjusted model).

Conclusion(s)

GCF concentrations of MMP‐8 and ‐9 at early of pregnancy are increased in women with severe periodontitis and associated with the GDM development.
Towards a more sustainable viticulture: foliar application of N‐doped calcium phosphate nanoparticles on Tempranillo grapes
Authors: Pérez‐Álvarez Eva P , Ramírez‐Rodríguez Gloria B , Carmona Francisco J , Martínez‐Vidaurre José M , Masciocchi Norberto , Guagliardi Antonella , Garde‐Cerdán Teresa , Delgado‐López José M
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND

The use of nanomaterials for the efficient delivery of active species in viticulture is still an unexplored opportunity. Nitrogen, an essential nutrient for grapevine development and wine quality, is commonly provided in the form of urea. However, the application of conventional fertilisers contributes to nitrate leaching and denitrification, thus polluting groundwater and causing a serious environmental impact. Nanotechnology is offering smart solutions towards more sustainable and efficient agriculture. In the present work, we assessed the efficiency of nontoxic amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) nanoparticles as nanocarriers of urea (U‐ACP) through field experiments on Tempranillo grapevines. Four treatments were foliarly applied: U‐ACP nanofertiliser (0.4 kg N ha–1), commercial urea solutions at 3 and 6 kg N ha–1 (U3 and U6) and a control treatment (water).

RESULTS

The grapes harvested from plants treated with U‐ACP and U6 provided similar levels of yeast assimilable nitrogen, despite the very large reduction of nitrogen dosage. The concentration of amino acids was greater in U‐ACP‐treated plants than those of the control and U3 treatments and, barring a few exceptions, the values were comparable with those observed in grapes obtained following U6 treatment. Nanofertilisers provided a high arginine concentration in the musts but low proline concentrations in comparison to the U6 treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this work show the potential benefits of nanotechnology over conventional practices for nitrogen fertilisation. Significantly, the application of U‐ACP allowed a considerable reduction of nitrogen dosage to maintain the quality of the harvest, thereby mitigating the environmental impact. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Prognostic value of tumor deposits in rectal cancer: A monocentric series of 505 patients
Authors: Benoit Olivier , Svrcek Magali , Creavin Ben , Bouquot Morgane , Challine Alexandre , Chafai Najim , Debove Clotilde , Voron Thibault , Parc Yann , Lefevre Jeremie H.
Published: August 2020

Background and Objectives

It has been suggested that tumor deposits (TDs) may have a worse prognosis in rectal cancer compared with colonic cancer. The aim of this study was to assess TDs prognosis in rectal cancer.

Methods

Patients who underwent total mesorectum excision for rectal adenocarcinoma (2011‐2016) were included. A case‐matched analysis was performed to assess the accurate impact of TDs for each pN category after exclusion of synchronous metastasis.

Results

A total of 505 patients were included. TDs were observed in 99 (19.6%) patients, (pN1c = 37 [7.3%]). TDs were associated with pT3‐T4 stage (P = .037), synchronous metastasis (P = .003), lymph node (LN) invasion (P = .041), vascular invasion (P = .001), and perineural invasion (P < .001). TD was associated with a worse 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) among pN0 (51.2% vs 79.8%; P < .001); pN1 patients (35.2% vs 70.1%; P = .004) but not among pN2 patients (37.5% vs 44.7%; P = .499). After matching, pN1c patients had a worse 3‐year DFS compared with pN0 patients (58.6% vs 82.4%; P = .035) and a tendency toward a worse DFS among N1 patients (40.1% vs 64.2%; P = .153). DFS was worse when one TD was compared with one invaded LN (40.8% vs 81.3%; P < .001).

Conclusion

In rectal cancer, TDs have a metastatic risk comparable to a pN2 stage which may lead to changes in adjuvant treatment.
The Effects of Posttraumatic Stress and Trauma‐Focused Disclosure on Experimental Pain Sensitivity Among Trauma‐Exposed Women
Authors: Hood Caitlyn O. , Badour Christal L.
Published: August 2020

Previous studies evaluating the impact of trauma history and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on pain sensitivity have yielded inconsistent findings. The presence of trauma‐related negative affective states may account for these discrepancies. The current study aimed to evaluate the effect of PTSD and trauma‐related negative affect on sensory, affective, physiological, and neuroendocrine responses to an experimental pain task. Trauma‐exposed adult women (N= 87) with or without probable PTSD underwent an emotional disclosure paradigm during which they wrote about a traumatic event or a neutral topic. Participants then completed a pain induction procedure. Sensory and affective reports of pain, as well as physiological and neuroendocrine reactivity, were assessed. Compared to women without PTSD, those with PTSD demonstrated decreased sensory pain responses, ηp² = .11, including increased time to pain detection (i.e., threshold) and ability to withstand the pain stimuli (i.e., tolerance) after accounting for relevant covariates. Women with PTSD also demonstrated increased cortisol reactivity following the pain stimulus, ηp² = .06. The main and interactive effects of PTSD group and writing condition did not significantly predict alterations in affective reports of pain or heart rate reactivity. The results suggest that PTSD symptoms may contribute to alterations in pain sensitivity in trauma‐exposed women, but this association is complex and requires further exploration.
Sexual Assault, Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms, and Indices of Aggression Among Women
Authors: Wamser‐Nanney Rachel , Walker Hannah E. , Nanney John T.
Published: August 2020

Sexual assault is associated with many adverse outcomes, including a higher risk for developing posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS). Although nonsexual trauma exposure has been linked to aggression, the associations between sexual assault and aggression are understudied. Further, the DSM‐5 conceptualization of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) includes a symptom related to aggression, and associations between symptom clusters and aggression with regard to the new criteria are underexplored. The present study aimed to (a) examine the relations between sexual assault and indices of aggression (i.e., physical/verbal aggression, anger, and hostility) after accounting for PTSS and (b) investigate PTSD symptom clusters in relation to aggression among 263 women (Mage = 29.03 years, SD = 11.71; 67.6% white). Path analysis revealed that sexual assault was unrelated to indices of aggression, βs = .003–.08; however, PTSS was consistently linked with increased aggression, βs = .22–.49. Results indicated specificity in the associations between the symptom clusters and aspects of aggression. Negative alterations in cognitions and mood corresponded with increased physical aggression, β = .28, and hostility, β = .38, and avoidance was related to verbal aggression, β = .19. Hyperarousal was also tied to higher levels of anger, hostility, and verbal aggression, βs = .21–.33. Nonetheless, lower levels of intrusion symptoms were associated with increased anger and hostility, β = ‐.26. With regard to understanding women's risk for aggression, PTSS may be more relevant than sexual assault. Further, there may be specificity related to the type of PTSD symptoms and aspects of aggression.
Salivary Gland Lithiasis Recurrence After Minimally‐Invasive Surgery: Incidence, Risk Factors and Prevention
Authors: Galli Philippe , Ceva Antoine , Foletti Jean‐Marc , Iline Nicolas , Giorgi Roch , Chossegros Cyrille , Graillon Nicolas
Published: August 2020

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the recurrence rate of lithiasis following minimally invasive surgery to identify risk factors and mechanisms for recurrence of salivary gland lithiasis.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted including all patients treated for salivary gland lithiasis by minimally invasive surgery, such as sialendoscopy, intracorporeal lithotripsy, extracorporeal lithotripsy, transoral approach, and combined approach in our Department. We analyzed the recurrence rate of salivary lithiasis, their topography and timeline.

Result

Three hundred four patients were included in this study, the mean age was 49 years (range 12–90 years), and the mean duration of follow‐up was 19.8 months (range 0–66 months). Fifteen patients (5%) presented secondary lithiasis. In all but one case, recurrences involved the same gland as primary lithiasis, and most frequently the submandibular gland. Recurrences occurred from 3 to 46 months postoperatively. Fourteen patients, who presented recurrence, had been initially treated by transoral approach. Recurrent lithiasis were treated by transoral approach or submandibulectomy.

Conclusion

Salivary gland lithiasis recurrence was rare after minimally invasive salivary gland surgery. This study reinforced the concept that salivary gland lithiasis should be considered as a duct pathology.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:794–799, 2021
Identification of Viruses in Patients With Postviral Olfactory Dysfunction by Multiplex Reverse‐Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Tian Jun , Pinto Jayant M. , Li Li , Zhang Sanmei , Sun Zhifu , Wei Yongxiang
Published: August 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate causative viruses in patients with postviral olfactory disorders (PVOD).

Study Design

Case‐control study.

Methods

One hundred fifty‐one consecutive patients diagnosed with PVOD were enrolled, and samples from 38 patients who visited the doctor within 3 months of symptom onset were collected and analyzed. Thirty‐two individuals who underwent surgery for nasal septal deviation during the same time period were collected as the control group. The Sniffin' Sticks psychophysical olfactory test was used to evaluate olfactory function. Olfactory cleft specimens were collected using nasopharyngeal flocked swabs (COPAN FLOQSwabs). Eighteen viruses were tested for with the Luminex xTAG RVP FAST v2 Assay Kit.

Results

Out of the 38 patients with PVOD, rhinoviruses were detected in 13 patients, and coronavirus OC43 was detected in one patient. The frequency of positive virus detection in the patients with anosmia was higher than in those with hyposmia (58.8% vs. 19.0%, P = 0.018). In control group, rhinovirus was identified in one patient (3.1%). Nasal obstruction was the most common symptom and was experienced by 71.0% of patients.

Conclusions

Rhinovirus and coronavirus are more commonly identified in PVOD. Our methods represent an approach to screen for viruses that may be involved in PVOD.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:158–164, 2021
3D Printing of Cytocompatible Gelatin‐Cellulose‐Alginate Blend Hydrogels
Authors: Erkoc Pelin , Uvak Ileyna , Nazeer Muhammad Anwaar , Batool Syeda Rubab , Odeh Yazan Nitham , Akdogan Ozan , Kizilel Seda
Published: August 2020

3D bioprinting of hydrogels has gained great attention due to its potential to manufacture intricate and customized scaffolds that provide favored conditions for cell proliferation. Nevertheless, plain natural hydrogels can be easily disintegrated, and their mechanical strengths are usually insufficient for printing process. Hence, composite hydrogels are developed for 3D printing. This study aims to develop a hydrogel ink for extrusion‐based 3D printing which is entirely composed of natural polymers, gelatin, alginate, and cellulose. Physicochemical interactions between the components of the intertwined gelatin‐cellulose‐alginate network are studied via altering copolymer ratios. The structure of the materials and porosity are assessed using infrared spectroscopy, swelling, and degradation experiments. The utility of this approach is examined with two different crosslinking strategies using glutaraldehyde or CaCl2. Multilayer cylindrical structures are successfully 3D printed, and their porous structure is confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analyses. Moreover, cytocompatibility of the hydrogel scaffolds is confirmed on fibroblast cells. The developed material is completely natural, biocompatible, economical, and the method is facile. Thus, this study is important for the development of advanced functional 3D hydrogels that have considerable potential for biomedical devices and artificial tissues.
Development of a Dual Hydrogel Model System for Vascularization
Authors: Kim Sungwoo , Pan Chi‐Chun , Yang Yunzhi Peter
Published: August 2020

Numerous hydrogel‐based culture systems are used to create in vitro model for prevascularization. Hydrogels used to induce a microenvironment conducive to microvessel formation are typically soft and fast degradable, but often suffer from maintaining a lasting perfusable channel in vitro. Here, a dual hydrogel system that consists of photo‐crosslinkable gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and polyethylene glycol dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) is reported. GelMA hydrogels present soft and rapidly degradable properties and show microporous structures while PEGDMA is relatively stiff, almost nondegradable in vitro, and less porous. The dual hydrogel system is sequentially photo‐crosslinked to construct an endothelial cell (EC)‐lined perfusable PEGDMA channel and surrounding GelMA for endothelial vascular networks. Such dual hydrogel system exhibits seamless integration of the stiff PEGDMA channel and the surrounding soft GelMA, and facilitates rapid EC sprouting and extensive microvessel formation from a stable endothelium on the PEGDMA channel into the GelMA. Furthermore, diffusivity of biomolecules in the perfusable dual hydrogel system is affected by both the structural and physicochemical properties of the hydrogel system and the microvascular networks formed in the system. The establishment of the dual hydrogel system for vascularization holds great promise as an in vitro angiogenesis model and prevascularization strategy of large tissue constructs.
Monostatic radar‐based microwave imaging of breast tumor detection using a compact cubical dielectric resonator antenna
Authors: Kaur Gagandeep , Kaur Amanpreet
Published: August 2020

This research article presents a proficient, convenient, and low‐cost monostatic radar‐based microwave imaging (RBMI) technique for the breast tumor detection. For this, a compact cubical dielectric resonator antenna (DRA) with impedance bandwidth of 8.3 GHz (ie, 4.3‐12.6 GHz) has been simulated using CST V′17. In proposed monostatic RBMI technique, the designed DRA is placed parallel to the breast phantom and rotated around it at an interval of 10° in elevation plane (0‐π) and azimuthal plane (0‐2π), respectively; first, without and then with tumor inside the breast phantom. Total 1080 back‐scattered signals are recorded for the entire impedance bandwidth, and processed for microwave imaging. For the validation of results, fabricated antenna is rotated around the artificial breast mimic. The artificial breast mimic is made up from gelatin (skin), petroleum jelly (fat), and wheat flour (tumor). The backscattered signals from the artificial breast phantom have been recorded on the vector network analyzer model no. E5063A for both the cases that is, with absence and presence of tumor at different position and time intervals. The recorded S‐parameters have been processed in two beam‐forming algorithms; delay and sum (DAS), delay multiply and sum (DMAS). These signals are then converted into digital data and processed in the MATLAB, to visualize the 2D image of the scanned area to detect the breast tumor. By comparing the reconstructed images, it is concluded that the DAS algorithm provides just a clue about the presence of the tumor, but DMAS provides the accurate position and size of the breast tumor.
Ultrahigh‐resolution quantitative spinal cord MRI at 9.4T
Authors: Geldschläger Ole , Bosch Dario , Avdievich Nikolai I. , Henning Anke
Published: August 2020

Purpose

To present the results of the first human spinal cord in vivo MRI scans at 9.4T.

Methods

A human brain coil was used to image the human spinal cord at 9.4T. All anatomical images were acquired with a T2*‐weighted gradient‐echo sequence. A comparison of the influence of four different B0 shimming routines on the image quality was performed. Intrinsic signal‐to‐noise‐ratio maps were determined using a pseudo‐multiple replica approach. Measurements with different echo times were compared and processed to one multiecho data image combination image. Based on the multiecho acquisitions, T2*‐relaxation time maps were calculated. Algorithmic spinal cord detection and gray matter/white matter segmentation were tested.

Results

An echo time between 9 and 13.8 ms compromised best between gray matter/white matter contrast and image quality. A maximum in‐plane resolution of 0.15 × 0.15 mm2 was achieved for anatomical images. These images offered excellent image quality and made small structures of the spinal cord visible. The scanner vendor implemented B0 shimming routine performed best during this work. Intrinsic signal‐to‐noise‐ratio values of between 6600 and 8060 at the upper cervical spinal cord were achieved. Detection and segmentation worked reliably. An average T2*‐time of 24.88 ms ± 6.68 ms for gray matter and 19.37 ms ± 8.66 ms for white matter was calculated.

Conclusion

The proposed human brain coil can be used to image the spinal cord. The maximum in‐plane resolution in this work was higher compared with the 7T results from the literature. The 9.4T acquisitions made the small structures of the spinal cord clearly visible.
Round 2: A 4-Year Follow-Up Evaluation of a Flathead Catfish Population Exposed to Hand Fishing
Authors: Bodine Kristopher A. , Ott Richard A. , Bennett Daniel L. , Norman Jacob D. , Schlechte J. Warren
Published: August 2020

The 2011 legalization of hand fishing for catfishes in Texas prompted the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to conduct a model-based evaluation of the potential impacts on size structure and dynamic rates of the Flathead Catfish Pylodictis olivaris in Lake Palestine, Texas. Results predicted that impacts by hand fishers would be minimal and that the preexisting harvest regulation of 5 fish/d with a 457-mm minimum length limit was sufficient to maintain fishery quality. Despite these findings, TPWD fisheries staff continued to have concerns about potential overharvest. In response to this concern, we conducted a follow-up evaluation in April 2018 to determine whether population characteristics, such as relative abundance or size-related metrics, had changed since the previous evaluation in 2014. Sampling was conducted with low-frequency electrofishing via similar procedures used in the previous study. We found no significant changes in any metric examined. Total catch rates and the catch rates of trophy-sized fish were not significantly different. Length frequency distributions were also similar, and no differences were observed in mean TL or any proportional size distribution measurement. These findings corroborate those from the 2014 study and also suggest that hand fishing has had no measurable effect on Flathead Catfish abundance or size-related metrics in Lake Palestine from 2014 through 2018.
Metabolic incorporation of H218O into specific glucose‐6‐phosphate oxygens by red‐blood‐cell lysates as observed by 13C isotope‐shifted NMR signals
Authors: Coelho Margarida , Barosa Cristina , Tavares Ludgero , Jones John G.
Published: August 2020

Water enriched with oxygen‐18 (H218O) is a potential tracer for evaluating the sources of glucose and glycogen synthesis since it is incorporated into specific sites of glucose‐6‐phosphate via specific enzyme‐mediated exchange/addition mechanisms. Unlike 2H, 18O does not experience significant isotope effects for any of these processes. Therefore, H218O might provide more precise estimates of endogenous carbohydrate synthesis compared with deuterated water provided that positional 18O enrichments of glucose can be measured. As a proof of concept, H218O was incorporated into a well characterized hemolysate model of sugar phosphate metabolism and 13C NMR was applied to quantify positional 18O enrichment of glucose‐6‐phosphate oxygens.

Human erythrocyte hemolysate preparations were incubated overnight at 37 °C with a buffer containing sugar phosphate precursors and 20% (n = 5) and 80% (n = 1) H218O. Enrichment of glucose‐6‐phosphate was analyzed by 13C NMR analysis of 18O‐shifted versus unshifted signals following derivatization to monoacetone glucose (MAG).

13C NMR MAG spectra from hemolysate revealed resolved 18O‐shifted signals in Positions 1‐5. Mean 18O enrichments were 16.4 ± 1.6% (Position 1), 13.3 ± 1.3% (Position 2), 4.1 ± 1.1% (Position 3), 12.6 ± 0.8% (Position 4), 10.7 ± 1.4% (Position 5), and no detectable enrichment of Position 6. No 18O‐shifted glucose‐6‐phosphate signals were detected in preparations containing sugar phosphate precursors only.

H218O is incorporated into Positions 1‐5 of glucose‐6‐phosphate in accordance with spontaneous aldose hydration and specific enzymatic reaction mechanisms. This provides a basis for its deployment as a tracer for glucose and glycogen biosynthesis.
What is the role of transformational leadership, work environment and patient safety culture for person‐centred care? A cross‐sectional study in Norwegian nursing homes and home care services
Authors: Ree Eline
Published: August 2020

Aim

To examine how transformational leadership, job demands, job resources and patient safety culture contribute in explaining person‐centred care in nursing homes and home care services.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Healthcare professionals in four Norwegian nursing homes (N = 165) and four home care services (N = 139) participated in 2018. Multiple regression analyses were used to examine to what degree transformational leadership, job demands, job resources and patient safety culture dimensions predicted person‐centred care.

Results

Transformational leadership, job demands and job resources explained 41% of the variance in person‐centred care, with work pace as the strongest predictor (β = 0.39 p < .001). The patient safety culture dimensions explained 57.5% of the variance in person‐centred care, with staffing being the strongest predictor (β = 0.31 p < .001). There were small differences between nursing homes and home care. In total, transformational leadership, pace of work, staffing and factors related to communication were the strongest predictors for person‐centred care.
Curcumin Conjugates of Non‐steroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs: Synthesis, Structures, Anti‐proliferative Assays, Computational Docking, and Inflammatory Response
Authors: Laali Kenneth K. , Zwarycz Angela T. , Beck Nicholas , Borosky Gabriela L. , Nukaya Manabu , Kennedy Gregory D.
Published: August 2020

In an effort to combine the anti‐proliferative effect of CUR‐BF2 and CUR compounds with anti‐inflammatory benefits of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), a library of the bis‐ and mono‐NSAID/CUR‐BF2 and NSAID/CUR conjugates were synthesized by coupling flufenamic acid, flurbiprofen, naproxen, indomethacin, and ibuprofen to diversely substituted hydroxy‐benzaldehydes via an ester linkage, and by subsequent reaction with acetylacetone‐BF2 to form the bis‐ and the mono‐NSAID/CUR‐BF2 adducts. Since conversion to NSAID/CUR by the previously developed decomplexation protocol showed limited success, a set of NSAID/CUR conjugates were independently prepared by directly coupling the NSAIDs with parent curcumin. The bis‐NSAID/CUR‐BF2 and bis‐NSAID‐CUR hybrids exhibited low cytotoxicity in NCI‐60 assay, and in independent cell viability assay on colorectal cancer (CRC) cells (HCT116, HT29, DLD‐1, RKO, SW837, CaCo2) and in normal CR cells (CCD841CoN). By contrast, the mono‐naproxin and mono‐flurbiprofen CUR‐BF2 adducts exhibited remarkable anti‐proliferative and apoptopic activity in NCI‐60 assay most notably against HCT‐116 (colon), OVCAR‐3 (ovarian), and ACHN (renal) cells. Computational molecular docking calculations showed favorable binding energies to HER2, VEGFR2, BRAF, and Bcl‐2 as well as to COX‐1 and COX‐2, which in several cases exceeded known inhibitors. The main interactions between the ligands and the proteins were hydrophobic, although several hydrogen bonds were also observed. A sub‐set of six compounds that had exhibited little or no cytotoxicity were tested for their anti‐inflammatory response with THP‐1 human macrophages in comparison to parent NSAIDs or parent curcumin.
Attainment of the sustainable development goal of poverty eradication: A review, critique, and research agenda
Authors: Singh Sanjeet , R Jayaram
Published: August 2020

Eliminating poverty by 2030 is the main target of Sustainable Development Goal 1(SDG1). India had an ambitious target of cutting down its poverty rate to 10.95% from 21.92%, by 2030. This review has the objective to consolidate the literature related to SDG1 in India, since 2015 and to identify futuristic research niches. This research focuses on the research questions of identifying the public policy initiatives in India for achieving SDG1 and the performance of various indicators of SDG1 in India. Forty‐one peer‐reviewed articles related to SDG1 in India are selected from the sources of Web of Science and consolidated the findings of these works of literature by using the indicators of NITI Aayog as the themes; described the empirical papers by highlighting the key variables and findings. This research had identified the health insurance penetration; slum rehabilitation and rejuvenation of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) are the futuristic areas for research. This paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge and recommends the key areas to be focused on achieving SDG1 in India. This review can help readers in understanding better methods of poverty eradication. High spirits are recommended from the implementing authorities to meet the objectives of indicators of poverty, better housing, health insurance penetration to households, and for the generation of employment and consumption by the scheme of MGNREGA. Moreover, a realistic picture of poverty eradication in India may be possible by using more indicators covering all the targets of SDG1.
The cost‐utility of intravenous magnesium sulfate for treating asthma exacerbations in children
Authors: Buendia Jefferson A. , Acuña‐Cordero Ranniery , Rodriguez‐Martinez Carlos E.
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Although evidence supports the use of intravenous magnesium sulfate (MS) in asthma exacerbations, MS continues to be considered a second‐line drug for managing pediatric asthma exacerbations. This study aimed to evaluate the cost‐utility of MS in asthma exacerbations.

Methods

We used a decision tree model to estimate the cost‐utility of MS compared to treatment without MS (control group) in children with asthma exacerbations. Cost data were obtained from a retrospective study from tertiary centers in Rionegro, Colombia, while utilities were collected from the literature. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis was carried out using the Monte Carlo technique with a simulation of a hypothetical cohort of 10 000 patients to generate expected cost utilities with 95% confidence intervals. We used a cost‐effectiveness acceptability curve to evaluate the uncertainty surrounding the cost‐utility of MS.

Results

The model showed that MS had a lower total cost than the control group (US $1149 vs US $1598 average cost per patient) and higher quality‐adjusted life years (0.60 vs 0.52 average per patient), showing dominance. The probability that MS provides a more cost‐effective use of resources compared with standard therapy exceeds 99% for all willingness‐to‐pay thresholds.

Conclusion

Intravenous MS was less expensive and more effective than treatment without intravenous MS in children with asthma exacerbations. Our study provides evidence that should be used by decision‐makers to improve clinical practice guidelines and should be replicated to validate its results in other middle‐income countries.
A Simple Reactive‐Flow Model for Corner‐Turning in Insensitive High Explosives, Including Failure and Dead Zones. I. The Model.
Authors: Williams Peter Todd
Published: August 2020

I report on a novel simple reactive‐flow model that captures corner‐turning behavior, including failure and the creation of dead zones, in insensitive solid heterogeneous high explosives. The model is fast, has a minimum of free parameters, and is physically grounded in the underlying initiation and burn phenomena. The focus of the model is explosives based on triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB), although the model is quite general. I initially developed the model and integrated it into a branch of a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) arbitrary Lagrangian‐Eulerian (ALE) code concurrently with other modelling efforts of mine, but I subsequently adopted it to study corner‐turning behavior in the TATB‐based high explosive PBX 9502 when two other available models suggested to me proved inadequate, being either prohibitively computationally expensive or numerically unstable. An early version of the model reproduces corner‐turning behavior in two diﬀerent double‐cylinder tests and a mushroom‐type corner turning test. The model was informed and influenced by other reactive‐flow models applicable to shock initiation or corner‐turning, most especially including JWL++ Tarantula 2011 and an in‐house piecewise‐linear CHEETAH‐based model that exhibits corner‐turning behavior, but also, to a degree, by Ignition & Growth (I&G), CREST, and the Statistical Hot‐Spot Model. The model also shares some similarities to SURF models. In this paper, I describe the model and its theoretical development as I originally conceived it, as well as subsequent improvements.
Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation compared to conventional physiotherapy for adults with traumatic upper brachial plexus injury: A protocol for a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Chagas Alessandra Carolina de Santana , Wanderley Débora , Barboza Paulo José Moté , Martins José Vicente Pereira , de Moraes Alexa Alves , de Souza Fernando Henrique Morais , de Oliveira Daniella Araújo
Published: August 2020

Background

Traumatic upper plexus injury affects daily living activities performance and participation of individuals. Physical therapy treatment has a fundamental role on functional recovery, but it is still an unexplored and challenging field.

Aim

To develop a protocol to evaluate the efficacy of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) compared to conventional physiotherapy (CPT group) on functionality and quality of life.

Methods

A committee was formed by four physical therapists to develop the treatment protocol. A Delphi study was carried out in order to quantify the level of agreement. A protocol for a randomized controlled trial was proposed to evaluate the effectiveness of the protocol in improving functionality and quality of life, according Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials. Participants will be randomly assigned (1:1) to PNF or CPT group and two weekly sessions will be carried out for 12 months postsurgery, with a three‐month follow‐up. The main outcome measurements are: upper limb functionality, quality of life, range of motion, muscle strength, tactile sensitivity, and pain, which will be assessed at baseline, on the 6th, 9th, and 12th months postsurgery.

Result

A PNF protocol was developed for traumatic upper brachial plexus injury, consisting of 11 illustrated exercises, three for immediate postoperative and eight for postoperative. Biomechanical objectives, observations, positions of patients and therapists and PNF principles, procedures and techniques have been described. An 80% agreement on all items in the first round of the Delphi study was achieved.

Conclusion

A protocol based on the PNF‐concept was developed with the aim of improving the functionality and quality of life of individuals undergoing nerve transfer after traumatic injury to the upper plexus. The detailed description of a physical therapy treatment protocol through an appropriate method will allow its use in clinical practice and in future studies with this population.