bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuromuscular blockade management for intraoperative neural monitoring
Authors: Lu I‐Cheng , Wu Sheng‐Hua , Wu Che‐Wei
Published: November 2019

This article reviews the literature on development of neuromuscular blockade management in thyroid surgery with intraoperative neural monitoring (IONM) in the past decade. Neuromuscular blockade management includes the choice of neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) and reversal of neuromuscular blockade by sugammadex. A series of animal study and clinical trials showed NMBAs effect on IONM in thyroid surgery. We summarized five NMBA regimens for IONM: (a) relaxant‐free regimen, (b) depolarizing NMBA‐succinylcholine, (c) titration of nondepolarizing NMBA, and (d) rocuronium combined with sugammadex. The proper management of neuromuscular blockade during IONM has greatly developed over the past decade. The misuse of NMBAs is associated with false IONM interpretations to surgeons. A detailed understanding of NMBAs and neuromuscular blockade management by sugammadex may optimize IONM quality in patients receiving monitored thyroid surgery.
Endoscopic versus microscopic stapes surgery outcomes: A meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Koukkoullis Alexandros , Tóth István , Gede Noémi , Szakács Zsolt , Hegyi Péter , Varga Gábor , Pap István , Harmat Kinga , Németh Adrienn , Szanyi István , Lujber László , Gerlinger Imre , Révész Péter
Published: November 2019

Objective

Compare intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of endoscopic and microscopic stapes surgery to provide objective evidence on whether the former is a better alternative than the latter.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis for studies that compared endoscopic stapes surgery with microscopic stapes surgery. Only studies that met predetermined criteria were selected and assessed for bias and quality. Primary outcomes were postoperative air–bone gap (ABG) and chorda tympani nerve injury. Secondary outcomes were average operating time, tympanic membrane (TM) perforation, and postoperative taste disturbance, pain, and dizziness. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous outcomes and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% CI for continuous outcomes. A confidence interval starting above 1.0 was considered as statistically significant. I2 and χ2 tests were used to quantify statistical heterogeneity. We used funnel plots to look for publication bias and performed a sensitivity analysis.

Results

Six nonrandomized cohort studies were eligible. The primary outcomes were ABG < 10 dB: OR = 1.80 (95% CI: 0.96 to 3.38), ABG = 11 dB to 20 dB: OR = 1.49 (95% CI: 0.76 to 2.93), ABG > 20 dB: OR = 2.51 (95% CI: 0.77 to 8.22), and chorda tympani injury: OR = 3.51 (95% CI: 1.55 to 7.93). Secondary outcomes were taste: OR = 2.36 (95% CI: 1.01 to 5.51), average operation time: WMD = 0.14 (95% CI: −11.69 to 11.98), TM perforation: OR = 1.70 (95% CI: 0.44 to 6.58); pain: OR = 0.84 (95% CI: 0.36 to 1.96), and dizziness: OR = 2.15 (95% CI: 0.94 to 4.89).

Conclusions

Endoscopic stapes surgery is a valid alternative to the microscope.

Level of Evidence

2a Laryngoscope, 130: 2019–2027, 2020
The Natural History of Vocal Fold Cysts
Authors: Kirke Diana N. , Sulica Lucian
Published: November 2019

Objective

To determine the natural history of vocal fold cysts, by undertaking a retrospective analysis of data from a single clinical institute.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with vocal fold cysts were identified from January 2006 to June 2018. A total of 87 patients that elected not to have surgery or who had an interval of observation greater than 90 days prior to surgical intervention were further analyzed. The primary outcome was whether the cyst enlarged, reduced in size, resolved or ruptured. The secondary outcome measures were whether cyst characteristics (translucent or opaque by gross appearance and/or the presence of inflammation), voice therapy or duration of follow up (≤/> 300 days) had an impact upon natural history.

Results

There were 65 females and 22 males (47 years ±17). The mean duration of follow up was 589 days (Range 21 – 4523 days). The majority of cysts did not change (70.11%). The rest enlarged (12.64%), reduced in size (13.79%), resolved (1.15%) or ruptured (1.15%). There was no statistically significant relationship between the presence or absence of clinical signs of inflammation (P = .633) or voice therapy (P = .785) on natural history. There was an equivocal relationship between gross cyst appearance and natural history (P = .054), however there was a statistically significant relationship between the duration of follow up (P = .006) and natural history.

Conclusion

Most vocal fold cysts appear to remain static in size over time. About 30% change, with half of these enlarging and half shrinking. In addition to some possibility of change in size, there is a small chance of resolution or spontaneous rupture with potentially serious consequences to the voice.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 130:2202–2207, 2020
Time‐series observations of photosynthetic oxygen production in the subtropical western North Pacific by an underwater profiling buoy system
Authors: Fujiki Tetsuichi , Inoue Ryuichiro , Honda Makio C. , Wakita Masahide , Mino Yoshihisa , Sukigara Chiho , Abe Osamu
Published: November 2019

We conducted time‐series observations in the northwestern part of the North Pacific subtropical gyre (30°N, 145°E) from July 2012 to March 2013 using a profiling buoy system equipped with a fast repetition rate fluorometer and dissolved oxygen (DO) sensor in order to understand vertical and temporal variations in gross oxygen production (GOP) by phytoplankton and its contribution to the oxygen cycle in the upper ocean. Under stratified conditions (July–November), daily GOP slightly exceeded 2 mmol O2 m−3 d−1 and only in near‐surface waters. However, during periods of vertical mixing (December–March) when phytoplankton blooms occurred, daily GOP increased in the upper 30 m and often exceeded 5 mmol O2 m−3 d−1. The depth‐integrated daily GOP within the euphotic layer (∫GOPEL) was relatively low (84.0 ± 23.6 mmol O2 m−2 d−1) during stratification, but increased gradually with vertical mixing and reached 460 mmol O2 m−2 d−1 on 17 March 2013. Additionally, during stratified conditions, a subsurface oxygen maximum (SOM) formed below the mixed‐layer depth (MLD) because the steep density gradient constrained upward diffusion of oxygen produced below the MLD. During the period of vertical mixing, the SOM disappeared, and DO concentrations within the upper 100 m increased through both increasing ∫GOPEL and atmospheric oxygen uptake. Using our buoy observations and air–sea gas flux model, we estimated that 24% ± 7% of ∫GOPEL was emitted to the atmosphere during the stratification period, and ∫GOPEL during the mixing period was about 2.4 times the rate of oxygen uptake by the ocean from the atmosphere.
Precipitants of Acute‐on‐Chronic Liver Failure: An Opportunity for Preventative Measures to Improve Outcomes
Authors: Cullaro Giuseppe , Sharma Rajani , Trebicka Jonel , Cárdenas Andrés , Verna Elizabeth C.
Published: November 2019

Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF) is a feared complication that can develop at any stage of chronic liver disease. The incidence of ACLF is increasing, leading to a significant burden to both the affected individual and health care systems. To date, our understanding of ACLF suggests that it may be initiated by precipitants such as systemic infection, alcohol use, or viral hepatitis. The prevalence of these vary significantly by geography and underlying liver disease, and these precipitants have a varying impact on patient prognosis. Herein, we present a review of our current understanding of the precipitants of ACLF, including gaps in current data and opportunities for meaningful intervention and areas of future research.
Effect of Aromatic Co‐Solvents on the Efficiency of Atom Transfer Radical Coupling Reactions of Fluorinated and Non‐Fluorinated Vinyl Aromatic Polymers
Authors: Ching Megan E. , Lee Jaenic J. , Wu Jessica P. , Andry Joseph J. , Tillman Eric S.
Published: November 2019

Monobrominated versions of poly(pentafluorostyrene) (PPFSBr), polystyrene (PSBr), and poly(methyl acrylate) (PMABr) are prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) and employed in a variety of atom transfer radical coupling (ATRC)‐type reactions to observe the impact of external aromatic faces on the extent of coupling (Xc). In ATRC reactions assisted with the radical trap 2‐methyl‐2‐nitrosopropane (MNP), Xc is nearly unchanged when the electron‐rich benzene co‐solvent (50% v/v with THF) is replaced with the electron‐poor hexafluorobenzene (HFB) for PSBr and PMABr. In the case of PPFSBr, the addition of benzene to the reaction mixture results in far lower extents of coupling (Xc < 0.2). 1H NMR spectra of the radical trap MNP in HFB show greater aggregation to the inactive form, compared to the spectra obtained in benzene. To remove the effect of the radical trap interacting with the aromatic co‐solvent and altering the rate of coupling, traditional ATRC reactions are performed with the same co‐solvent systems and, in this case, HFB results in higher Xc values across all polymer types. This is consistent with HFB pushing the position of the KATRP further toward the active radical, while benzene increases the reactivity of the MNP radical trap.
On differential equations with interval coefficients
Authors: Gasilov Nizami A. , Emrah Amrahov Şahin
Published: November 2019

In this study, a new approach is developed to solve the initial value problem for interval linear differential equations. In the considered problem, the coefficients and the initial values are constant intervals. In the developed approach, there is no need to define a derivative for interval‐valued functions. All derivatives used in the approach are classical derivatives of real functions. The reason for this is that the solution of the problem is defined as a bunch of real functions. Such a solution concept is compatible also with the robust stability concept.

Sufficient conditions are provided for the solution to be expressed analytically. In addition, on a numerical example, the solution obtained by the proposed approach is compared with the solution obtained by the generalized Hukuhara differentiability. It is shown that the proposed approach gives a new type of solution. The main advantage of the proposed approach is that the solution to the considered interval initial value problem exists and is unique, as in the real case.
Numerical analysis of finite element method for time‐fractional Cahn‐Hilliard‐Cook equation
Authors: Wang Xiaolei , Wang Bo , Zou Guang‐an
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we propose a Galerkin finite element method for the Cahn‐Hilliard‐Cook equation involving the Caputo‐type fractional derivative, which can be used to describe the interface phenomena for modeling the phase transitions with the random effects and the properties of shape memory. The regularity properties of mild solution to the given problem are presented, and a result concerning the convergence error estimate of the corresponding semidiscrete scheme is established. Finally, we construct the fully discrete scheme based on the approximations of the Mittag‐Leffler function, and the strong convergence error estimate of the proposed scheme is also studied.
Synthesizing images from multiple kernels using a deep convolutional neural network
Authors: Missert Andrew D. , Yu Lifeng , Leng Shuai , Fletcher Joel G. , McCollough Cynthia H.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Filtering measured projections with a particular convolutional kernel is an essential step in analytic reconstruction of computed tomography (CT) images. A tradeoff between noise and spatial resolution exists for different choices of reconstruction kernel. In a clinical setting, this often requires producing multiple images reconstructed with different kernels for a single CT exam, which increases the burden of computation, networking, archival, and reading. We address this problem by training a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) to synthesize multiple input images into a single output image which exhibits low noise while also preserving features in images reconstructed with the sharpest kernels.

Methods

A CNN architecture consisting of repeated blocks of residual units containing a total of 20 convolutional layers was used to combine features. The CNN inputs consisted of two images produced with different reconstruction kernels, one smooth and one sharp, which were stacked in the channel dimension. The network was trained using supervised learning with both full‐dose and simulated quarter‐dose abdominal CT images. After training, the performance was evaluated using a reserved set of full‐dose scans that were not used for network optimization. Noise reduction performance was measured by comparing root mean square (RMS) measurements in uniform regions. Spatial resolution was compared using line profiles of anatomic features.

Results

For the regions tested, the synthetic images feature noise levels slightly below those of the smooth input images, while maintaining the resolution of anatomic details found in the sharp input images.

Conclusions

A deep CNN can be used combine features from CT images reconstructed with different kernels to produce a single synthesized image series that exhibits both low noise and high spatial resolution. This approach has implications for improving image quality, reducing radiation dose, and simplifying the clinical workflow for CT imaging.
Effect of the solvent on the conformation of monocrotaline as determined by isotropic and anisotropic NMR parameters
Authors: de Melo Sousa Cleyton Marcos , Giordani Raquel Brandt , de Almeida Wamberto Alristenio Moreira , Griesinger Christian , Gil Roberto R. , Navarro‐Vázquez Armando , Hallwass Fernando
Published: November 2019

The conformation in solution of monocrotaline, a pyrrolizidine alkaloid presenting an eleven‐membered macrocyclic diester ring, has been investigated using a combination of isotropic and anisotropic nuclear magnetic resonance parameters measured in four solvents of different polarity (D2O, DMSO‐d6, CDCl3, and C6D6). Anisotropic nuclear magnetic resonance parameters were measured in different alignment media, based on their compatibility with the solvent of interest: cromoglycate liquid crystal solution was used for D2O, whereas a poly (methyl methacrylate) polymer gel was chosen for CDCl3 and C6D6, and a poly (hydroxyethyl methacrylate) gel for DMSO‐d6. Whereas the pyrrolizidine ring shows an E6 exo‐puckered conformation in all of the solvents, the macrocyclic eleven‐membered ring adopts different populations of syn‐parallel and anti‐parallel relative orientation of the carbonyl groups according to the polarity of the solvent.
Hadamard acquisition of 13C–13C 2‐D correlation NMR spectra
Authors: Paluch Piotr , Kupče Ēriks , Trébosc Julien , Lafon Olivier , Amoureux Jean‐Paul
Published: November 2019

We show that a multiselective excitation with Hadamard encoding is a powerful tool for 2‐D acquisition of 13C─13C homonuclear correlations. This method is not designed to improve the sensitivity, but rather to reduce the experiment time, provided there is sufficient sensitivity. Therefore, it allows fast acquisition of such 2‐D spectra in labeled molecules. The technique has been demonstrated using a U─13C─15N histidine hydrochloride monohydrate sample allowing each point of the build‐up curves of the 13C─13C cross‐peaks to be recorded within 4 min 35 s, which is very difficult with conventional methods. Using the U─13C─15N f‐MLF sample, we have demonstrated that the method can be applied to molecules with 14 13C resonances with a minimum frequency separation of 240 Hz.
Investigation of 205Tl NMR shielding, structural, and electronical properties in thallium halides by applying PBE‐GGA, YS‐PBE0 and mBJ functionals
Authors: Bashi M. , Rahnamaye Aliabad H.A.
Published: November 2019

We report the structural, electronical, and heavy nuclear 205Tl Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) shielding properties of thallium halides TlX (X = F, Cl, Br, and I) by the first principles calculation. The Perdew–Burke–Ernzerhof Generalized Gradient Approximation, Yukawa Screened‐PBE0 hybrid functional, and modified Becke–Johnson (mBJ) functionals including the relativistic and spin‐orbit coupling effects are applied for calculation of the exchange‐correlation potentials. Calculated PDOS spectra display that the valence band is composed of the X‐s, Tl‐5d, X‐p, and Tl‐6s states, and these states play an important role in 205Tl NMR shielding. Our findings indicate that the nuclear magnetic shielding parameters depend on the electronic properties. Obtained results by mBJ show that there is a close agreement between the experimental and the calculated NMR parameters.
Quantitative three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time cones imaging of the knee joint with motion correction
Authors: Wu Mei , Zhao Wei , Wan Lidi , Kakos Lena , Li Liang , Jerban Saeed , Jang Hyungseok , Chang Eric Y. , Du Jiang , Ma Ya‐Jun
Published: November 2019

Knee degeneration involves all the major tissues in the joint. However, conventional MRI sequences can only detect signals from long T2 tissues such as the superficial cartilage, with little signal from the deep cartilage, menisci, ligaments, tendons and bone. It is highly desirable to develop new sequences that can detect signal from all major tissues in the knee.

We aimed to develop a comprehensive quantitative three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time (3D UTE) cones imaging protocol for a truly “whole joint” evaluation of knee degeneration. The protocol included 3D UTE cones actual flip angle imaging (3D UTE‐Cones‐AFI) for T1 mapping, multiecho UTE‐Cones with fat suppression for T2* mapping, UTE‐Cones with adiabatic T1ρ (AdiabT1ρ) preparation for AdiabT1ρ mapping, and UTE‐Cones magnetization transfer (UTE‐Cones‐MT) for MT ratio (MTR) and modeling of macromolecular proton fraction (f). An elastix registration technique was used to compensate for motion during scans. Quantitative data analyses were performed on the registered data. Three knee specimens and 15 volunteers were evaluated at 3 T.

The elastix motion correction algorithm worked well in correcting motion artifacts associated with relatively long scan times. Much improved curve fitting was achieved for all UTE‐Cones biomarkers with greatly reduced root mean square errors. The averaged T1, T2*, AdiabT1ρ, MTR and f for knee joint tissues of 15 healthy volunteers were reported.

The 3D UTE‐Cones quantitative imaging techniques (ie, T1, T2*, AdiabT1ρ, MTR and MT modeling) together with elastix motion correction provide robust volumetric measurement of relaxation times, MTR and f of both short and long T2 tissues in the knee joint.
LMI‐based cooperative distributed model predictive control for Lipschitz nonlinear systems
Authors: Adelipour Saeed , Haeri Mohammad
Published: November 2019

In this paper, a distributed model predictive control is proposed to control Lipschitz nonlinear systems. The cooperative distributed scheme is considered where a global infinite horizon objective function is optimized for each subsystem, exploiting the state and input information of other subsystems. Thus, each control law is obtained separately as a state feedback of all system's states by solving a set of linear matrix inequalities. Due to convexity of the design, convergence properties at each iteration are established. Additionally, the proposed algorithm is modified to optimize only one control input at a time, which leads to a further reduction in the computation load. Finally, two application cases are studied to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Identifying the causes of road traffic accidents in India: An empirical investigation
Authors: Dash Devi Prasad , Sethi Narayan , Dash Aruna Kumar
Published: November 2019

This study utilizes data for the period 2006–2015 to estimate the determinants of road fatality rates in the Indian states. We employ baseline regression, where the total traffic fatalities, total traffic injuries, rural road fatalities, and urban road fatalities are the functions of human errors in driving, weather conditions, and some control variables. This paper is exclusively focussed upon different sets of human‐driven factors in influencing the road fatality across the Indian states. Our empirical results show that reckless driving, defective motor conditions, bad weather, and reckless driving by bus, truck, and car drivers are found to cause road accidents. We further find that the increase in motorization rates and rash driving are the primary causes behind the road fatalities, and bad weather play a major role in causing road fatalities and injuries in urban areas. However, road fatalities are increasing; still, cases of under reporting, lack of proper road safety regulation, improper investigation procedures, increasing vehicle usages, and higher urbanization have made the matters quite worse in India.
Computational Modelling of Inertia Friction Welding
Authors: Williams Ross , Barbera Daniele , Docherty Mark , Bray Simon , McBride Andrew
Published: November 2019

This study details the development and validation of a finite element methodology to robustly simulate the inertia friction welding (IFW) process. There are many difficulties involved in modelling IFW. These include the short and violent process to complete a weld, as well as the challenges in obtaining experimental data throughout the process to complement, validate and inform the modelling effort. The objectives here are to model the macroscale multiphysical process leading to an accurate prediction of key process output variables, ultimately leading to a reliable method for predicting the post weld microstructure.
Relational processes and psychological adjustment among young adults with cancer: The role of technology‐related communication
Authors: Darabos Katie , Hoyt Michael A. , Ford Jennifer S.
Published: November 2019

Objective

Little attention has been paid to understanding how engaging in cancer‐related interpersonal exchanges via varying modes of communication influences psychological well‐being among young adults with cancer. This study explored the moderating role of communication mode on the relationship of relational processes of disclosure and responsiveness with psychological well‐being.

Methods

61 young adults with cancer (Mage = 34.59, SD = 4.82) completed a questionnaire about their most recent cancer‐related conversation. Participants reported on communication mode (ie, face‐to‐face, text message, and phone call) and relational processes of self‐ and support member‐ disclosure of thoughts, information, and feelings and how accepted, cared for, and understood they felt within the cancer‐related conversation. Cancer adjustment measures included functional well‐being and depressive symptoms.

Results

There were no main effects of communication mode or relational processes. However, communication mode did moderate the relationship between relational processes and cancer adjustment. Greater relational processes of disclosure and responsiveness were associated with better functional well‐being and lower depressive symptoms only among those who engaged in their most recent cancer‐related conversation through technology‐related communication and not for those engaged in face‐to‐face communication.

Conclusion

Relational processes that are likely to benefit psychological adjustment after cancer appear to be particularly advantageous over technology‐based communication. Young adults commonly report feelings of social isolation and psychological distress after cancer. These findings suggest that technology‐related communication holds promise as a way to strengthen support‐related communication and protect against distress.
Cancer patients' expectations when undergoing extensive molecular diagnostics—A qualitative study
Authors: Rohrmoser Amy , Pichler Theresia , Letsch Anne , Westphalen C. Benedikt , Keilholz Ulrich , Heinemann Volker , Goerling Ute , Herschbach Peter
Published: November 2019

Objective

Precision cancer medicine (PCM) aims at identifying tumor‐driving molecular characteristics to improve therapy. Despite early successes for some cancers, the approach faces manifold challenges. Patients undergoing extensive molecular diagnostics (MD) may hope for personal benefit, although chances are small. In order to offer suitable support to this group, health‐care professionals need to gain insight into patients' experience. Thus, this study sought to explore the expectations of cancer patients undergoing MD of their tumor.

Methods

In two German Comprehensive Cancer Centers, 30 patients with advanced‐stage cancer who had exhausted conventional treatment and had consented to extensive, research‐oriented MD (whole‐genome sequencing n = 24, panel sequencing n = 6) participated in semi‐structured interviews. Following thematic content analysis by Kuckartz, the interview transcripts were coded for expectations of MD participation and topics closely related. Moreover, patients completed questionnaires on their sociodemographic characteristics, medical history, and psychosocial distress.

Results

Patients reported to be expecting (a) an improvement of their treatment, (b) a contribution to research, and/or (c) additional insight to their own cancer. Further, they described to feel individually appreciated and to have a reason to maintain hope for cure or recovery by participating in MD.

Conclusions

Molecular diagnostics participation led patients to feel treated in a more “personalized” way, allowing them a greater sense of control in their situation of severe illness. Oncologists and psycho‐oncologists need to ensure comprehensive information and empathetic support for patients undergoing extensive MD to balance their expectations and actual chances of clinical benefit.
The desire for children among adult survivors of childhood cancer: Psychometric evaluation of a cancer‐specific questionnaire and relations with sociodemographic and psychological characteristics
Authors: Ernst Mareike , Brähler Elmar , Wild Philipp S. , Faber Jörg , Merzenich Hiltrud , Beutel Manfred E.
Published: November 2019

Objective

Long‐term childhood cancer survivors (CCS) are less likely to become parents than their peers of the same age. Previous research has suggested that besides fertility, this outcome is shaped by psychosocial factors such as emotional motives toward having a child. Drawing from a sample of CCS with survival times >25 years, we present the validation of a questionnaire assessing cancer‐specific reproductive motives and concerns.

Methods

We evaluated the cancer‐specific version of the Leipzig Questionnaire of Motives to have a Child (LKM‐C) in a register‐based sample of adult CCS (N = 632, 31% had children, 44.5% women). We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis and tested associations with sociodemographic characteristics and psychological symptoms (PHQ‐9, GAD‐2).

Results

The questionnaire showed good item discrimination parameters and reliability (α = 0.86). The two‐factorial structure was confirmed with the independent scales “return to normalcy” and “illness‐related worries (child's/own health).” On average, CCS reported more motives in favor of a child than worries (P < .001; d = 1.12). Favorable attitudes were associated with the presence of a partnership and children, stronger current desire for a child, and fewer depressive symptoms. Worries were associated with an unfulfilled desire to have a child and elevated levels of depression and anxiety symptoms.

Conclusions

The LKM‐C offers a brief measure of parenthood motivations in long‐term CCS. Having a child signifies return to normalcy, health, fulfillment of life perspectives, and enrichment of the partnership. Less intense worries included illnesses of the child and concerns regarding one's own health. The questionnaire could inform follow‐up care, psychotherapy, and fertility treatments.
Grief over patients, compassion fatigue, and the role of social acknowledgment among psycho‐oncologists
Authors: Engler‐Gross Adi , Goldzweig Gil , Hasson‐Ohayon Ilanit , Laor‐Maayany Rony , Braun Michal
Published: November 2019

Objective

Compassion fatigue—that is, secondary traumatic stress (STS) and burnout—is a traumatic emotional state experienced by health care providers and expressed in a reduced capacity to be interested in and empathic to the suffering of others. Compassion fatigue may be related to grief over patients' loss. We examined the relation between grief and compassion fatigue among psycho‐oncologists while exploring the impact of social acknowledgment on this association. We hypothesized that social acknowledgment would moderate the relation between grief and compassion fatigue.

Methods

Participants were 60 Israeli psycho‐oncologists in a cross‐sectional study. Measures consisted of a demographic questionnaire, the Texas Revised Inventory of Grief‐Present, the Social Acknowledgment questionnaire, and the Professional Quality of Life Questionnaire.

Results

The participants reported relatively high levels of grief and high levels of compassion fatigue. Grief and compassion fatigue were significantly positively associated (STS: r = 0.41, p < 0.01; Burnout: r = 0.45, p < 0.01). A k‐means cluster analysis based on social acknowledgment and grief yielded three meaningful clusters: High Grief‐Low Social Acknowledgment; Medium Grief‐High Social Acknowledgment; and Low Grief‐Medium Social Acknowledgment. Levels of STS in the first cluster were significantly higher in comparison to levels of STS in each of the other clusters (F = 6.22, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Psycho‐oncologists experience patient loss as part of their daily work. In response, they may develop grief reactions. This grief, when it is not perceived by them as being socially acknowledged, may result in high levels of STS: a phenomenon with undesirable personal and professional implications.
The interactions of PhSPL17 and PhJAZ1 mediate the on‐ and off‐year moso bamboo (Phyllostachys heterocycla) resistance to the Pantana phyllostachysae larval feeding
Authors: Li Yuhong , Lin Bairong , Zhu Tengfei , Zhang Huafeng , Su Jun
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The immunity of moso bamboo (Phyllostachys heterocycle) to insect defoliator outbreaks differs between on‐years to off‐years; however, the underlying genetic mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, the genetic relationships of functional genes conferring pest resistance were investigated.

RESULTS

PhJAZ1 (Phyllostachys heterocycla JASMONATE ZIM‐domain protein 1) exhibited the highest enrichment and was expressed at higher levels in the leaves of on‐year bamboo plants compared with off‐year, whereas the expression of PhSPL17 (Phyllostachys heterocycla SQUAMOSA Promoter binding protein‐Like 17) showed the reverse pattern. The expression pattern of PhJAZ1 differed in on‐ and off‐year bamboo (i.e., decreasing in the off‐year with no obvious change in the on‐year) after feeding by Pantana phyllostachysae (lepidopteran caterpillar of moso bamboo). Due to the lack of a genetic transformation system, the model plant Arabidopsis was used for the investigation of the genetic relationships between PhJAZ1 and PhSPL17. Overexpression of the PhJAZ1 protein in Arabidopsis showed a negative impact on the survival ratio and weight of third‐instar Helicoverpa armigera (Arabidopsis leaf‐feeding lepidopteran caterpillar). Transcriptional suppression of PhJAZ1 by PhSPL17 was observed, which was able to reveal the reverse expression pattern of PhJAZ1 and PhSPL17.

CONCLUSION

Together, these results suggest that on‐ and off‐years (leaf age) regulate the expression of PhSPL17, which negatively regulates the expression of PhJAZ1 to generate differential response to Jasmonate. This study is the first to detail the genetic connection between leaf age and Jasmonate response in moso bamboo and provides a foundation for further pest control via the genetic breeding of moso bamboo. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Incorporation of β‐amino acids into ascidiacyclamides: Effects on conformation, cytotoxicity and interaction with copper (II) ion
Authors: Asano Akiko , Yamada Takeshi , Doi Mitsunobu
Published: November 2019

Seven ascidiacyclamide [cyclo(–Ile–oxazoline–d‐Val–thiazole–)2] (ASC) analogues incorporating the β‐amino acids βIle, βoxazoline, and/or d‐βVal were synthesized. We then investigated the effects of the position and number of incorporated β‐amino acids on the structure, cytotoxicity, and copper binding by these seven analogues. The structural analyses revealed that both βIle and d‐βVal favor a gauche‐type θ torsion angles, while βoxazoline favors a trans‐type θ torsion angle. Expansion of the macrocycle by incorporation of βIle or d‐βVal readily induced molecular folding. On the other hand, the incorporation of two βoxazoline residues strongly extended the peptide conformation, and the incorporation of one was sufficient for the moderate restriction important for conformational equilibrium and cytotoxicity. Despite expansion of the macrocycles, the structure‐cytotoxicity relationships were largely maintained. In studies of complexation of the analogues with Cu (II) ion, the position and number of incorporated β‐amino acids had a large impact on the structure of the metal complex and may contribute to its stabilization.
Inhomogeneous Current Injection and Filamentary Lasing of Semipolar (2021¯) Blue GaN‐Based Vertical‐Cavity Surface‐Emitting Lasers with Buried Tunnel Junctions
Authors: Kearns Jared A. , Back Joonho , Palmquist Nathan C. , Cohen Daniel A. , DenBaars Steven P. , Nakamura Shuji
Published: November 2019

Blue semipolar vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers with a buried tunnel junction current aperture are demonstrated under continuous‐wave operation with a differential efficiency of 4% and a threshold current of 2.7 mA for a lasing mode at 452 nm. The effects of the aperture diameter on these 9λ cavity length devices are presented, showing that the differential efficiency increases with aperture size, whereas the threshold current density remains constant for apertures larger than 10 μm. Filamentary lasing is observed in the larger aperture sizes, and it is suggested that this mode behavior is due to current injection inhomogeneity across the aperture. This theory is supported by the correlation between optical nearfield images and thermal microscopy images.
Monitoring process variation using modified EWMA
Authors: Saghir Aamir , Aslam Muhammad , Faraz Alireza , Ahmad Liaquat , Heuchenne Cedric
Published: November 2019

A new control chart, namely, modified exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control chart, for monitoring the process variance is introduced in this work by following the recommendations of Khan et al.15 The proposed control chart deduces the existing charts to be its special cases. The necessary coefficients, which are required for the construction of modified EWMA chart, are determined for various choices of sample sizes and smoothing constants. The performance of the proposed modified EWMA is evaluated in terms of its run length (RL) characteristics such as average RL and standard deviation of RL. The efficiency of the modified EWMA chart is investigated and compared with some existing control charts. The comparison reveals the superiority of proposal as compared with other control charts in terms of early detection of shift in process variation. The application of the proposal is also demonstrated using a real‐life dataset.
Extensive bronchial occlusion with N‐butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate for bronchopleural fistula and a destroyed lung
Authors: Kaminuma Yasunori , Tanahashi Masayuki , Suzuki Eriko , Yoshii Naoko , Niwa Hiroshi
Published: November 2019

A 72‐year‐old Japanese man who had undergone resection of a left upper lung carcinoma developed chronic empyema with bronchopleural fistula and destroyed lung 12 years after surgery. Open‐window thoracotomy and bronchial occlusion with an endoscopic Watanabe spigot (EWS) were performed to control infection. However, the EWS was easily dislodged due to remarkable bronchial deformation, and he experienced repeated episodes of pneumonia. We performed extensive bronchial filling with N‐butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate. Stable occlusion was achieved, and there was no recurrence of pneumonia. N‐butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate was a useful embolic agent because it moulded to the shape of the tracheal lumen and remained in place.
Asynchronous H∞ filtering of continuous‐time Markov jump systems
Authors: Fang Mei , Dong Shanling , Wu Zheng‐Guang
Published: November 2019

The paper investigates the asynchronous H∞ filtering design problem for continuous‐time linear systems with Markov jump. The hidden Markov jump principle is applied to represent the asynchronous situation between the target system and the designed filter. Via a Lyapunov technique, two sufficient conditions are developed to guarantee that the filtering error system is stochastically stable with a prescribed H∞ noise attenuation level. Furthermore, three filtering design approaches are developed in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, one example is provided to show the effectiveness and feasibility of the developed methods.
Torii: An aspect‐based sentiment analysis system that can mine conditions
Authors: Gallego Fernando O. , Corchuelo Rafael
Published: November 2019

Aspect‐based sentiment analysis systems are a kind of text‐mining systems that specialize in summarizing the sentiment that a collection of reviews convey regarding some aspects of an item. There are many cases in which users write their reviews using conditional sentences; in such cases, mining the conditions so that they can be analyzed is very important not to misinterpret the corresponding sentiment summaries. Unfortunately, current commercial systems or research systems neglect conditions; current frameworks and toolkits do not provide any components to mine them; furthermore, the proposals in the literature are insufficient because they are based on handcrafted patterns that fall short regarding recall or machine learning procedures that are tightly bound with a specific language and require too much configuration. In this article, we present Torii, which is a system that loads a collection of reviews, discovers the aspects on which they report, and summarizes the sentiment that is conveyed on them taking into account the existing conditions, if any. We also describe its architecture, our approach to mine conditions, and our experimental analysis on a large multilingual data set with reviews from multiple categories. To the best of our knowledge, Torii is the first proposal that addresses aspect‐based sentiment analysis taking conditions into account.
Constitutive relationships for CNF‐reinforced engineered cementitious composites and CNF‐reinforced lightweight engineered cementitious composites at ambient and elevated temperatures
Authors: Hamidi Fatemeh , Aslani Farhad
Published: November 2019

Owing to their unique mechanical performance for both seismic and non‐seismic applications, carbon nanofiber (CNF)‐reinforced engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) and CNF‐reinforced lightweight ECCs (LWECCs) have been received great attentions since their introduction. Due to the crucial roles of material selection and environmental conditions on the mechanical performance of cementitious composites, and thus, the structural performance during the service life of civil engineering structures, analytical studies establishing the constitutive relationships for the mechanical properties of any cementitious composite are of great importance. In this study, the constitutive relationships for the mechanical properties of CNF‐reinforced ECC, as well as, hollow glass microsphere (HGM)‐based LWECC and CNF‐reinforced HGM‐based LWECC have been developed. The proposed models include compressive strength, flexural strength, and compressive stress–strain relationships at both ambient and elevated temperatures. Furthermore, the available experimental results have been applied so that the generality and workability of the established models can be evaluated. The results indicated that to establish more reliable and accurate constitutive relationships, more researches and experimental data for CNF‐reinforced ECC and LWECC with and without CNF reinforcements are essential.
Verifying SysML activity diagrams using formal transformation to Petri nets
Authors: Huang Edward , McGinnis Leon F. , Mitchell Steven W.
Published: November 2019

The development of contemporary systems is an extremely complex process. One approach to modeling system behavior uses activity diagrams from Unified Modeling Language (UML)/System Modeling Language (SysML), providing a standard object‐oriented graphical notation and enhancing reusability. However, UML/SysML activity diagrams do not directly support the kind of analysis needed to verify the system behavior, such as might be available with a Petri net (PN) model. We show that a behavior model represented by a set of fUML‐compliant modeling elements in UML/SysML activity diagrams can be transformed into an equivalent PN, so that the analysis capability of PN can be applied. We define a formal mathematical notation for a set of modeling elements in activity diagrams, show the mapping rules between PN and activity diagrams, and propose a formal transformation algorithm. Two example system behavior models represented by UML/SysML activity diagrams are used for illustration.
Microcystin‐LR exposure disrupts the insulin signaling pathway in C2C12 mice muscle cell line
Authors: Ma Tianfeng , Cao Naifang , Chen Kele , Wang Hao , Xu Lihong , Xu Chun , Huang Pu
Published: November 2019

Microcystin‐LR (MC‐LR) is a widely produced monocyclic heptapeptides in eutrophication waterbodies. MC‐LR can induce various toxic effects in different cells. Our previous studies have found that MC‐LR exposure can disrupt insulin signaling pathway in human liver cells (HL 7702). Skeletal muscle is one of the major organs for glucose disposal and responsive to insulin. However, the effects of MC‐LR on insulin signaling pathway in muscle cells have not been fully explored. By using C2C12 mice muscle cells, this study aims to investigate the toxic effects of MC‐LR in muscle cells with a focus on its effects on insulin signaling pathways. It was found that MC‐LR entered into cells and inhibited protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) significantly. Furthermore, MC‐LR increased phosphorylation of Ser302, Ser307, Ser612 of insulin receptor substrate 1, AKT‐Ser473, GSK3α‐Ser21, and S6K1‐Thr389 by inhibiting the activity of PP2A. The results in this study demonstrate that exposure of MCLR can disrupt the insulin pathway in muscle cells.
Nuclear sorting of RNA
Authors: Garland William , Jensen Torben Heick
Published: November 2019

The majority of the mammalian genome is transcribed by RNA polymerase II, yielding a vast amount of noncoding RNA (ncRNA) in addition to the standard production of mRNA. The typical nuclear biogenesis of mRNA relies on the tightly controlled coupling of co‐ and post‐transcriptional processing events, which ultimately results in the export of transcripts into the cytoplasm. These processes are subject to surveillance by nuclear RNA decay pathways to prevent the export of aberrant, or otherwise “non‐optimal,” transcripts. However, unlike mRNA, many long ncRNAs are nuclear retained and those that maintain enduring functions must employ precautions to evade decay. Proper sorting and localization of RNA is therefore an essential activity in eukaryotic cells and the formation of ribonucleoprotein complexes during early stages of RNA synthesis is central to deciding such transcript fate. This review details our current understanding of the pathways and factors that direct RNAs towards a particular destiny and how transcripts combat the adverse conditions of the nucleus.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Export and Localization > Nuclear Export/Import

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Turnover/Surveillance Mechanisms

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications
Higgs Parity grand unification
Authors: Hall Lawrence J. , Harigaya Keisuke
Published: November 2019

Abstract

The vanishing of the Higgs quartic coupling of the Standard Model at high energies may be explained by spontaneous breaking of Higgs Parity. Taking Higgs Parity to originate from the Left-Right symmetry of the SO(10) gauge group, leads to a new scheme for precision gauge coupling unification that is consistent with proton decay. We compute the relevant running of couplings and threshold corrections to allow a precise correlation among Standard Model parameters. The scheme has a built-in solution for obtaining a realistic value for mb/mτ , which further improves the precision from gauge coupling unification, allowing the QCD coupling constant to be predicted to the level of 1% or, alternatively, the top quark mass to 0.2%. Future measurements of these parameters may significantly constrain the detailed structure of the theory. We also study an SO(10) embedding of quark and lepton masses, showing how large neutrino mixing is compatible with small quark mixing, and predict a normal neutrino mass hierarchy. The strong CP problem may be explained by combining Higgs Parity with space-time parity.
Bilateral reversed palmaris longus muscle: a case report and systematic literature review
Authors: Longhurst Georga , Stone Danya , Mahony Nick
Published: November 2019

Purpose

We present a case of a bilateral reversed palmaris longus muscle and a systematic review of the literature on this anatomical variation.

Methods

Routine dissection of a 90-year-old male cadaver revealed a rare bilateral reversed palmaris longus. This was documented photographically, and length and relation to anatomical landmarks were recorded. This finding stimulated a systematic review of the literature on the reversed palmaris longus variation, from which measurements were collated and statistical analysis performed to determine the prevalence, average length, relationship to side and sex, and to discuss its clinical and evolutionary implications.

Results

The average length of the muscle belly and tendon of reversed palmaris longus was 135 mm and 126 mm, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed no disparity in presentation due to sex and side; however, bilateral reversed palmaris longus has only been reported in males. A high proportion (70.8%) of reversed palmaris longus were discovered in the right upper limb compared to the left.

Conclusion

Variations in palmaris longus are purported to be as a result of phylogenetic regression. Clinically, patients with this variant may present with pain or swelling of the distal forearm, often as a result of intense physical exertion related to occupation or sport. Clinicians should be aware of this muscle variant as its presence could lead to confusion during tendon allograft harvesting procedures in reconstructive and tendon grafting surgery.