bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a newborn screening tool for mucopolysaccharidosis type I based on bivariate normal limits: Using glycosaminoglycan and alpha‐L‐iduronidase determinations on dried blood spots to predict symptoms
Authors: Langan Thomas J. , Jalal Kabir , Barczykowski Amy L. , Carter Randy L. , Stapleton Molly , Orii Kenji , Fukao Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Hironori , Yamaguchi Seiji , Tomatsu Shunji
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Current newborn screening (NBS) for mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPSI) has very high false positive rates and low positive predictive values (PPVs). To improve the accuracy of presymptomatic prediction for MPSI, we propose an NBS tool based on known biomarkers, alpha‐L‐iduronidase enzyme activity (IDUA) and level of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) heparan sulfate (HS).

Methods

We developed the NBS tool using measures from dried blood spots (DBS) of 5000 normal newborns from Gifu Prefecture, Japan. The tool's predictive accuracy was tested on the newborn DBS from these infants and from seven patients who were known to have early‐onset MPSI (Hurler's syndrome). Bivariate analyses of the standardized natural logarithms of IDUA and HS levels were employed to develop the tool.

Results

Every case of early‐onset MPSI was predicted correctly by the tool. No normal newborn was incorrectly identified as having early‐onset MPSI, whereas 12 normal newborns were so incorrectly identified by the Gifu NBS protocol. The PPV was estimated to be 99.9%.

Conclusions

Bivariate analysis of IDUA with HS in newborn DBS can accurately predict early MPSI symptoms, control false positive rates, and enhance presymptomatic treatment. This bivariate analysis‐based approach, which was developed for Krabbe disease, can be extended to additional screened disorders.
Diagnosis and Grading of Prostate Cancer by Relaxation Maps From Synthetic MRI
Authors: Cui Yadong , Han Siyuan , Liu Ming , Wu Pu‐yeh , Zhang Wei , Zhang Jintao , Li Chunmei , Chen Min
Published: February 2020

Background

The interpretation system for prostate MRI is largely based on qualitative image contrast of different tissue types. Therefore, a fast, standardized, and robust quantitative technique is necessary. Synthetic MRI is capable of quantifying multiple relaxation parameters, which might have potential applications in prostate cancer (PCa).

Purpose

To investigate the use of quantitative relaxation maps derived from synthetic MRI for the diagnosis and grading of PCa.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

In all, 94 men with pathologically confirmed PCa or benign pathological changes.

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐weighted imaging, T2‐weighted imaging, diffusion‐weighted imaging, and synthetic MRI at 3.0T.

Assessment

Four kinds of tissue types were identified on pathology, including PCa, stromal hyperplasia (SH), glandular hyperplasia (GH), and noncancerous peripheral zone (PZ). PCa foci were grouped as low‐grade (LG, Gleason score ≤6) and intermediate/high‐grade (HG, Gleason score ≥7). Regions of interest were manually drawn by two radiologists in consensus on parametric maps according to the pathological results.

Statistical Tests

Independent sample t‐test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

T1 and T2 values of PCa were significantly lower than SH (P = 0.015 and 0.002). The differences of T1 and T2 values between PCa and noncancerous PZ were also significant (P ≤ 0.006). The area under the curve (AUC) of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value was significantly higher than T1, T2, and proton density (PD) values in discriminating PCa from SH and noncancerous PZ (P ≤ 0.025). T2, PD, and ADC values demonstrated similar diagnostic performance in discriminating LG from HG PCa (AUC = 0.806 [0.640–0.918], 0.717 [0.542–0.854], and 0.817 [0.652–0.925], respectively; P ≥ 0.535).

Data Conclusion

Relaxation maps derived from synthetic MRI were helpful for discriminating PCa from other benign pathologies. But the overall diagnostic performance was inferior to the ADC values. T2, PD, and ADC values performed similarly in discriminating LG from HG PCa lesions.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:552–564.
Transmission dynamics and evolutionary history of 2019‐nCoV
Authors: Li Xingguang , Wang Wei , Zhao Xiaofang , Zai Junjie , Zhao Qiang , Li Yi , Chaillon Antoine
Published: February 2020

To investigate the time origin, genetic diversity, and transmission dynamics of the recent 2019‐nCoV outbreak in China and beyond, a total of 32 genomes of virus strains sampled from China, Thailand, and the USA with sampling dates between 24 December 2019 and 23 January 2020 were analyzed. Phylogenetic, transmission network, and likelihood‐mapping analyses of the genome sequences were performed. On the basis of the likelihood‐mapping analysis, the increasing tree‐like signals (from 0% to 8.2%, 18.2%, and 25.4%) over time may be indicative of increasing genetic diversity of 2019‐nCoV in human hosts. We identified three phylogenetic clusters using the Bayesian inference framework and three transmission clusters using transmission network analysis, with only one cluster identified by both methods using the above genome sequences of 2019‐nCoV strains. The estimated mean evolutionary rate for 2019‐nCoV ranged from 1.7926 × 10−3 to 1.8266 × 10−3 substitutions per site per year. On the basis of our study, undertaking epidemiological investigations and genomic data surveillance could positively impact public health in terms of guiding prevention efforts to reduce 2019‐nCOV transmission in real‐time.
Neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders‐related axonal degeneration in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Andica Christina , Kamagata Koji , Hatano Taku , Saito Yuya , Uchida Wataru , Ogawa Takashi , Takeshige‐Amano Haruka , Hagiwara Akifumi , Murata Syo , Oyama Genko , Shimo Yashushi , Umemura Atsushi , Akashi Toshiaki , Wada Akihiko , Kumamaru Kanako K. , Hori Masaaki , Hattori Nobutaka , Aoki Shigeki
Published: February 2020

Neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders have significant consequences for quality of life in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). In the current study, we evaluated microstructural white matter (WM) alterations associated with neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders in PD using neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) and linked independent component analysis (LICA). The indices of NODDI were compared between 20 and 19 patients with PD with and without neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders, respectively, and 25 healthy controls using tract‐based spatial statistics and tract‐of‐interest analyses. LICA was applied to model inter‐subject variability across measures. A widespread reduction in axonal density (indexed by intracellular volume fraction [ICVF]) was demonstrated in PD patients with and without neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders, as compared with healthy controls. Compared with patients without neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders, patients with neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders exhibited more extensive (posterior predominant) decreases in axonal density. Using LICA, ICVF demonstrated the highest contribution (59% weight) to the main effects of diagnosis that reflected widespread decreases in axonal density. These findings suggest that axonal loss is a major factor underlying WM pathology related to neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders in PD, whereas patients with neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders had broader axonal pathology, as compared with those without. LICA suggested that the ICVF can be used as a useful biomarker of microstructural changes in the WM related to neurocognitive and psychiatric disorders in PD.
Successful cryoablation of ventricular extrasystoles originating from the vicinity of the left anterior fascicle
Authors: Kajiyama Takatsugu , Kondo Yusuke , Nakano Masahiro , Miyazawa Kazuo , Nakano Miyo , Hayashi Tomohiko , Ito Ryo , Takahira Haruhiro , Kobayashi Yoshio
Published: February 2020

A 32‐year‐old male received catheter ablation of frequent ventricular extrasystoles (VEs). His electrocardiogram showed monomorphic VEs with an inferior axis and early precordial transitional zone. During electrophysiological testing, a 10‐pole catheter positioned in the left ventricular outflow tract recorded sharp pre‐potentials just before the ventricular activation during VEs as well as sinus beats. Three‐dimensional mapping was performed by annotating the sharp pre‐potentials to reveal that the earliest activation site was deemed to be close to the left anterior fascicle. A cryoablation catheter was introduced into the left ventricle and freezing for 240 seconds successfully eliminated the clinical VEs without any complications.
Clinical outcomes associated with kidney function changes in anticoagulated atrial fibrillation patients: An ancillary analysis from the BOREALIS trial
Authors: Bai Ying , Shantsila Alena , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: February 2020

Background

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic kidney disease represent a high‐risk group for thromboembolism and bleeding.

Aims

To explore the relationship between kidney function changes and outcomes of stroke/systemic embolism (SE), major bleeding and all‐cause death in anticoagulated AF patients participating in the BOREALIS trial comparing efficacy and safety of once‐weekly s.c. idrabiotaparinux to that of warfarin.

Methods

Changes in kidney function by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation in 2765 AF patients. Trial adjudicated outcomes were determined.

Results

After a mean follow‐up of 394 days, in 94.4% of the included patients kidney function changed ranging from −30 mL/min to 30 mL/min. The incidence of stroke/SE and major bleeding was similar between patients with deteriorated (reduction in eGFR from baseline over follow‐up) and preserved kidney function change (increase or no change in eGFR from baseline over follow‐up) [stroke/SE: incidence rate (IR): 1.33%/year vs 1.80%/year; hazard ratio (HR) 0.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41‐1.32, P = .30; major bleeding: IR 1.63%/year vs 1.49%/year, HR 1.10, 95% CI 0.61‐1.97, P = .76]. On Cox regression analysis, patients with deteriorated kidney function were at higher risk for all‐cause death, compared to patients with preserved kidney function (HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.02‐2.63, P = .04).

Conclusion

In the BOREALIS trial, the risk of adjudicated stroke/SE, major bleedings, and all‐cause death was not related to mild‐moderate follow‐up changes in kidney function (±30 mL/min). The risk of all‐cause death was significantly increased in AF patients with abruptly deteriorating kidney function.
The Reflux Symptom Index and Symptom Overlap in Dysphonic Patients
Authors: Kavookjian Hannah , Irwin Thomas , Garnett James D. , Kraft Shannon
Published: February 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

The Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) is a validated quality‐of‐life instrument that quantifies symptoms associated with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). Many dysphonic patients are managed empirically for reflux. In this study, we examine responses to the RSI in patients with dysphonia attributable to a variety of pathologies.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

This is an institutional review board–approved study. All patients presented to a tertiary care voice center January 2011 to June 2016 with the chief complaint of dysphonia. Patients were analyzed by 1) diagnosis and 2) treatment modality: surgery, medicine, or voice therapy (VT). Data collected included pre‐ and postintervention RSI and Voice Handicap Index, demographic, and clinical information. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.

Results

Five hundred forty‐six dysphonic patients were included. One hundred forty required surgery, 155 were treated with VT alone, and 251 were medically managed (MM). Prior to therapy, 63.4% of surgery patients, 62.5% of VT patients, and 74.6% of MM patients had an abnormal RSI with a score greater than 13. The most common diagnosis for each group was vocal cord paresis/paralysis (surgery), vocal fold atrophy (VT), and LPR (MM). There was a statistically significant improvement in RSI after treatment for each group.

Conclusions

In patients with dysphonia, pretreatment RSI scores were elevated for a variety of laryngeal pathologies. Scores often improved with directed treatment, regardless of etiology. This highlights the symptom overlap between reflux and nonreflux causes of dysphonia, and the importance of a comprehensive workup for patients with voice complaints.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:2631–2636, 2020
Ultrafast Frequency Shift of Electromagnetically Induced Transparency in Terahertz Metaphotonic Devices
Authors: Hu Yuze , Jiang Tian , Sun Hao , Tong Mingyu , You Jie , Zheng Xin , Xu Zhongjie , Cheng Xiangai
Published: February 2020

Recently, the actively controlled meta‐atoms have been employed to manipulate terahertz (THz) waves allowing for the implementation of many functionalities operating. A salient example of such systems is the electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) metaphotonic device, which opens up a new avenue for THz manipulations. However, these devices are currently limited to be tuned at a given frequency, which severely impedes their practical applications. Here, novel photo‐active THz meta‐atoms are proposed, whose EIT resonance is equipped with a frequency tuning functionality up to 36%. At different levels of optical pumping power, a substantial modulation of EIT resonance is realized at the fundamental and shifted frequency, respectively. Moreover, the ultrafast dynamics manifest the switching time scale of ≈1 ns. This configuration is easily extensible by other types of stimuli, which may contribute to the development of multifunctional active tuning meta‐photonic systems.
Development, implementation and evaluation of a bespoke, advanced practice musculoskeletal training programme within a clinical assessment and treatment service
Authors: Stevenson Kay , Bicker Greg , Cliffe Stephanie , Kemp John , Menon Ajit , Hall Emma , Ryan Sarah
Published: February 2020

Musculoskeletal disease is burdensome, costly and reported to be the 4th biggest reason for years lived with disability. Lower back and neck pain were the leading causes of disability in England from 1990 to 2016. Clinical Assessment and Treatment Services (CATs) have been established to provide expert assessment and management for this group of patients, with the aim of providing the majority of care within primary care, reducing referrals going through to secondary care. Such services require professionals with the appropriate skills and autonomy to fulfil this aim. This paper describes the development, implementation and evaluation of a bespoke Musculoskeletal Trainee programme within a large Clinical Assessment and Treatment Service. A 12‐month training schedule was designed to assist the transition of a Physiotherapist (Band 7) to Advanced Practitioner level (Band 8a). Trainees worked through a series of competencies, captured their experiences and collected evidence of achievement during the 12‐month period. Their experiences were explored using content analysis and common themes were identified. Three Physiotherapists were employed on the basis of undertaking this programme and successfully completed the programme. They highlighted the benefits of the programme being its bespoke nature and its flexibility to reflect their learning needs. Mentorship was a key component as they all identified that progressing to an autonomous role can be challenging. Learning new skills and working differently at a pace that suited them were seen as positives aspects. This programme describes the competencies and experiences of three individuals progressing to Advanced Practice Physiotherapists. This paper may assist those who manage and commission such services.
Multi‐contrast volumetric imaging with isotropic resolution for assessing infarct heterogeneity: Initial clinical experience
Authors: Zhang Li , Lai Peng , Roifman Idan , Pop Mihaela , Wright Graham A.
Published: February 2020

Background. To evaluate accelerated multi‐contrast volumetric imaging with isotropic resolution reconstructed using low‐rank and spatially varying edge‐preserving constrained compressed sensing parallel imaging reconstruction (CP‐LASER), for assessing infarct heterogeneity on post‐infarction patients as a precursor to studies of utility for predicting ventricular arrhythmias.

Methods. Eleven patients with prior myocardial infarction were included in the study. All subjects underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) scans including conventional two‐dimensional late gadolinium enhancement (2D LGE) and three‐dimensional multi‐contrast late enhancement (3D MCLE) post‐contrast. The extent of the infarct core and peri‐infarct gray zone of a limited mid‐ventricular slab were derived respectively by analyzing MCLE images with an isotropic resolution of 2.2 mm and an anisotropic resolution of
mm
, and LGE images with a resolution of
mm
; the respective measures across all subjects were statistically compared.

Results. Using 3D MCLE, the infarct core size measured with isotropic resolution was similar to that measured with anisotropic resolution, while the peri‐infarct gray zone size measured with isotropic resolution was smaller than that measured with anisotropic resolution (
, Cohen's
). Isotropic 3D MCLE yielded a significantly smaller measure of the peri‐infarct gray zone size than conventional 2D LGE (
, Cohen's
). Overall, we have successfully shown the utility of isotropic 3D MCLE in a pilot patient study. Our results suggest that smaller voxels lead to more accurate differentiation between isotropic 3D MCLE‐derived gray zone and core infarct because of diminished partial volume effect.

Conclusion. The CP‐LASER accelerated 3D MCLE with isotropic resolution can be used in patients and yields excellent delineation of infarct and peri‐infarct gray zone characteristics.
Minimum shared‐power edge cut
Authors: Cabello Sergio , Jain Kshitij , Lubiw Anna , Mondal Debajyoti
Published: February 2020

We introduce a problem called minimum shared‐power edge cut (MSPEC). The input to the problem is an undirected edge‐weighted graph with distinguished vertices s and t, and the goal is to find an s‐t cut by assigning “powers” at the vertices and removing an edge if the sum of the powers at its endpoints is at least its weight. The objective is to minimize the sum of the assigned powers. MSPEC is a graph generalization of a barrier coverage problem in a wireless sensor network: given a set of unit disks with centers in a rectangle, what is the minimum total amount by which we must shrink the disks to permit an intruder to cross the rectangle undetected, that is, without entering any disk. This is a more sophisticated measure of barrier coverage than the minimum number of disks whose removal breaks the barrier. We develop a fully polynomial time approximation scheme for MSPEC. We give polynomial time algorithms for the special cases where the edge weights are uniform, or the power values are restricted to a bounded set. Although MSPEC is related to network flow and matching problems, its computational complexity (in P or NP‐hard) remains open.
Returning the Rock and Protecting the Game: Austronesian Custom and Environmental Governance in Timor‐Leste
Authors: Rose Michael
Published: February 2020

This article explores how in Timor‐Leste the implementation of national law is shaped by local conditions. In Oecussi District, the ability of the state to regulate hunting is both constrained and enabled by the continuing importance of indigenous (meto) socio‐spiritual frameworks ontologically distinct from those assumed to be normative by both the State and outside actors. Through the case study of a public servant tasked with upholding these laws, I show how in Timor‐Leste the seeming stability of centralized control cloaks a more complex reality whereby the daily practice of governance emerges from the interaction of local perspectives on nature and governance with state authorized authority.
Novel phthalazinone‐bearing tetrafunctional epoxy: Synthesis, characterization, and their toughening application for TGDDM system
Authors: Zhang Fengfeng , Zong Lishuai , Bao Feng , Weng Zhihuan , Wang Chenghao , Wang Jinyan , Jian Xigao
Published: February 2020

A novel tetrafunctional epoxy (TEPZ) was synthesized by “one spot two steps” method, and the effects of solvents, reaction temperature, and mole ratios of reactants on the reaction conversion were systematically investigated. The results demonstrated that the solvents participating in the reaction were the most crucial factor for high conversions. After curing, TEPZ/4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl sulfone (DDS) system exhibited better thermal stability compared with famous N,N,N′,N′‐tetraglycidyl‐4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl methane (TGDDM)/DDS analog. When TEPZ is blended with TGDDM/DDS, the initial decomposition temperature of TGDDM/TEPZ/DDS hybrid elevated from 348°C to 362°C. The storage modulus and the glass transition temperature were sensitive to curing procedure and concentration of DDS. While the system consisted of 100 phr TGDDM, 30 phr TEPZ, and 40 phr DDS, the storage modulus and glass transition temperature increased significantly compared with those of TGDDM/DDS, and the impact strength increased by 31.6% simultaneously. Such enhancement could be ascribed to the structural feature of phthalazinone in TEPZ, which formed stable interpenetrating networks during thermal cure procedure.
A review of the challenges, glycaemic risks and self‐care for people with type 1 diabetes when consuming alcoholic beverages
Authors: Charlton Jacqui , Gill Jan , Elliott Lawrie , Whittaker Anne , Farquharson Barbara , Strachan Mark
Published: February 2020

Evidence‐based information for people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) when consuming alcoholic beverages is sparse and simplistic. In clinical practice, erratic blood glucose levels with hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia are regularly observed, with episodes of severe hypoglycaemia being a potential risk. Preventative health behaviour strategies are often based on trial and error, with deliberately caused hyperglycaemia being a common tactic. Although important, there are no systematic reviews that synthesise the research evidence on the acute effects of alcohol on blood glucose and the impact in real‐life.

We aimed to investigate the acute effect of alcoholic beverages on blood glucose, and to use appropriate evidence to recommend self‐care advice to help maintain safe glycaemic control in people with T1DM.

A literature search from eight bibliographic databases was performed. Fifteen appropriate publications were identified. Most original research was performed in a laboratory environment and demonstrated inconsistencies in the effects of alcohol on blood glucose. Few studies were conducted in the real‐life environment, with advice from ‘diabetes associations’ focusing on abstinence rather than alcohol harm reduction strategies.

In conclusion, key components to consider when designing future interventions include: the biochemical response to alcohol; the role of exogenous insulin; the presence and timing of carbohydrate foodstuffs in relation to alcohol; the impact of the constituents and amount of an alcoholic beverage consumed; and the effects of alcohol on cognition and behaviours.
1.73 eV AlGaAs/InGaP heterojunction solar cell grown by MBE with 18.7% efficiency
Authors: Ben Slimane Ahmed , Michaud Amadeo , Mauguin Olivia , Lafosse Xavier , Bercegol Adrien , Lombez Laurent , Harmand Jean‐Christophe , Collin Stéphane
Published: February 2020

We report on AlGaAs‐based heterojunction solar cells grown by solid source molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). We investigate InGaP and AlGaAs material quality and we demonstrate significant efficiency improvements by combining the best of each alloy: a thick p‐AlGaAs base with tunable bandgap, and a thin 50 nm n‐InGaP emitter separated by a thin intrinsic AlGaAs layer. We report a certified solar cell conversion efficiency of 18.7% with a 2‐μm‐thick AlGaAs layer and a bandgap of 1.73 eV, suitable for high efficiency Si‐based tandem devices.
Targeted Identification of Protein Interactions in Eukaryotic mRNA Translation
Authors: Link Andrew J. , Niu Xinnan , Weaver Connie M. , Jennings Jennifer L. , Duncan Dexter T. , McAfee K. Jill , Sammons Morgan , Gerbasi Vince R. , Farley Adam R. , Fleischer Tracey C. , Browne Christopher M. , Samir Parimal , Galassie Allison , Boone Braden
Published: February 2020

To identify protein–protein interactions and phosphorylated amino acid sites in eukaryotic mRNA translation, replicate TAP‐MudPIT and control experiments are performed targeting Saccharomyces cerevisiae genes previously implicated in eukaryotic mRNA translation by their genetic and/or functional roles in translation initiation, elongation, termination, or interactions with ribosomal complexes. Replicate tandem affinity purifications of each targeted yeast TAP‐tagged mRNA translation protein coupled with multidimensional liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry analysis are used to identify and quantify copurifying proteins. To improve sensitivity and minimize spurious, nonspecific interactions, a novel cross‐validation approach is employed to identify the most statistically significant protein–protein interactions. Using experimental and computational strategies discussed herein, the previously described protein composition of the canonical eukaryotic mRNA translation initiation, elongation, and termination complexes is calculated. In addition, statistically significant unpublished protein interactions and phosphorylation sites for S. cerevisiae’s mRNA translation proteins and complexes are identified.
The FCR‐1: Initial validation of a single‐item measure of fear of cancer recurrence
Authors: Rudy Lauren , Maheu Christine , Körner Annett , Lebel Sophie , Gélinas Céline
Published: February 2020

Objective

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is characterized by the fear, worry or concern that cancer will come back or progress. The negative effects associated with FCR are consistently identified by cancer survivors as one of their most prominent unmet needs. Current measures of FCR can be long, complex and burdensome for survivors to complete. The objective of the present study is to develop and validate a one‐item measure of FCR.

Methods

The ability of the FCR‐1 to detect change in FCR over time was analyzed using a repeated‐measures ANOVA and paired‐samples t‐tests. Pearson correlations were used to measure the concurrent, convergent and discriminant validity of the FCR‐1, and a ROC analysis was conducted to determine an optimal clinical cut‐off score.

Results

The FCR‐1 was found to be responsive to change in FCR over time. It demonstrated concurrent validity with the FCRI (r = .395, P = .010), and convergent validity with the Mishel Uncertainty in Illness Scale (r = .493, P = .001) and the Reassurance Questionnaire (r = .325, P = .044). Discriminant validity was confirmed when the FCR‐1 did not significantly correlate with unrelated measures. A ROC analysis pinpointed an optimal clinical cut‐off score of 45.0.

Conclusions

The FCR‐1 is a promising tool that can be incorporated in clinical and research settings. Due to its brevity, the care needs of highly distressed patients can be met quickly and efficiently. In research settings, the FCR‐1 can reduce the cognitive burden experienced by survivors.
Lung clearance index and steroid response in pediatric severe asthma
Authors: Irving Samantha , Fleming Louise , Ahmad Fatima , Biggart Elizabeth , Bingham Yvvone , Cook James , Hall Pippa , Jamalzadeh Angela , Nagakumar Prasad , Bossley Cara , Gupta Atul , Macleod Kenneth , Saglani Sejal , Bush Andrew
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Lung clearance index (LCI) is a measure of airway disease that has been shown to be abnormal in asthma. We hypothesized that LCI would be higher (worse) in children with severe therapy‐resistant asthma (STRA) compared with difficult asthma (DA) and healthy controls and that LCI would fall in response to parenteral steroids in STRA.

Methods

Sixty‐four children with asthma who were prescribed high‐dose asthma therapy (GINA steps 4 or 5) performed LCI and spirometry. Forty‐three had STRA and 21 DA. Thirty‐nine of forty‐three STRA patients attended for a clinically indicated bronchoscopy during which an intramuscular injection of triamcinolone was given. LCI, spirometry, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) were performed on the day of the bronchoscopy and repeated 4 weeks later.

Results

LCI was more abnormal in STRA (median: 7.40, range: 5.58‐12.34) than in DA (6.55, 5.77‐7.75), P = .0006, and healthy controls (6.53, 5.57‐7.35), P = .005. In contrast to the first second forced expired volume (FEV1), LCI improved following systemic steroids; of 20 STRA patients with an abnormal LCI at baseline, 13 improved following triamcinolone. LCI and FeNO responses were concordant.

Conclusions

There is a subgroup of children with STRA in whom LCI is elevated who improve following parenteral steroids. LCI may be a valuable additional domain in assessing steroid response in pediatric asthma.
Luminescent Properties of Nanopowder and Single‐Crystalline Films of TbAG:Ce Garnet
Authors: Bolek Paulina , Zeler Justyna , Gorbenko Vitalii , Zorenko Tetiana , Popielarski Pawel , Bartosiewicz Karol , Osvet Andres , Batentschuk Miroslaw , Zych Eugeniusz , Zorenko Yuriy
Published: February 2020

Herein, the luminescence properties of nanopowders (NPs), thin NP film and single‐crystalline film (SCF) of TbAG:Ce garnet are compared. The NPs are prepared by the combustion synthesis. NP films with thickness of 300 nm are prepared using the spin‐coating method. SCFs are grown by liquid phase epitaxy. Structure and morphology of NPs, NP films, and SCFs are studied using scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The luminescence properties of these samples are characterized by cathodoluminescence (CL) and photoluminescence (PL). CL spectra of the TbAG:Ce NP, NP films, and SCFs show the dominant Ce3+ emission in the garnet host. Meanwhile, in the PL spectra of NPs, the complex UV emission band is also observed. Its origin is related to 1) thermodynamic instability of TbAG garnet phase and formation of TbAP:Ce perovskite phase under conditions of NP preparation; 2) formation of UV emitting centers in both TbAG and TbAP hosts. This UV emission band is fully absent in TbAG:Ce SCF. Therefore, TbAG SCFs are useful objects for studying the luminescence of this garnet and different dopants in them. Furthermore, both TbAG:Ce NP films and SCFs are applicable for producing cathodoluminescent and scintillating screens with thickness in the μm/sub μm ranges.
Influence of Lanthanum Concentration on Microstructure of (Ho1–xLax)2O3 Magneto‐Optical Ceramics
Authors: Balabanov Stanislav , Demidova Kristina , Filofeev Sergey , Ivanov Maxim , Kuznetsov Dmitrii , Li Jiang , Permin Dmitry , Rostokina Elena
Published: February 2020

Transparent cubic‐phase solid solution (Ho1–xLax)2O3 (where x = 0, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.1) ceramics are sintered in a vacuum at 1780 °C for 3 h from nanopowders made by self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis. The lanthana is proved to significantly influence the microstructure of the ceramics. The average crystallite sizes of the (Ho1–xLax)2O3 ceramics decrease with an increase in the concentration of lanthana. After vacuum sintering and low‐temperature annealing in air, the ceramics have second‐phase grains at the crystallite boundaries and the triple points. The volume fraction of the second phase is found to be in direct proportion to the lanthana content in the ceramics. This second phase is believed to be (Ho1–xLax)2O3 solid solutions with a higher lanthanum content in comparison with the surrounding crystallites. Annealing of the ceramics at 1500 °C for 2 h leads to the elimination of the second phase.
Effect of Cichorium intybus seeds supplementation on the markers of glycemic control, oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double‐blind placebo study
Authors: Chandra Kailash , Jain Vineet , Jabin Azhar , Dwivedi Shridhar , Joshi Santosh , Ahmad Sayeed , Jain Swatantra K.
Published: February 2020

Diabetes mellitus is associated with increased levels of inflammation and oxidative stress in patients. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that aqueous extract of Cichorium intybus seeds (AECIS) would have add‐on beneficial effect in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this double‐blind randomized clinical study, 150 subjects were enrolled to assess the add‐on efficacy and safety of AECIS in T2DM patients. The subjects were randomized (1:1) to the AECIS (n = 51) and placebo (n = 49) groups. The subjects in both groups continued to take prescribed doses of metformin. The standardization of AECIS was carried out by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry and phytochemical analysis. The mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level in the AECIS and placebo groups at baseline was 8.6% and 8.5%, respectively. Mean values of HbA1c at the end of 12 weeks of intervention were 7.42% in the AECIS group (a reduction of 1.18% from baseline) and 8.4% in the placebo group (mean reduction of 0.1% from baseline). Besides, significant reduction in inflammation, oxidative stress, and hypertriglyceridemia was seen in the AECIS group (p < .05). The study shows for the first time that AECIS supplementation ameliorates the disease progression and it is beneficial as a potential adjunct dietary supplement for the management of T2DM.
Remaining useful life prediction for multivariable stochastic degradation systems with non‐Markovian diffusion processes
Authors: Xi Xiaopeng , Zhou Donghua , Chen Maoyin , Balakrishnan Narayanaswamy , Zhang Hanwen
Published: February 2020

Multivariable stochastic degradation system (MSDS) is quite common in industries such as blast furnace ironmaking, vehicle transportation, and aerospace manufacturing. Large‐scale complex equipments may be affected by multiple factors, resulting in not just a single deteriorating performance characteristic. It is difficult to handle unknown failure structures of practical systems by using traditional univariate degradation modeling methods. A novel health index (HI) is constructed to quantitatively analyze the health state for the overall system. Considering the interaction between internal reactions and external environments, the fractional Brownian motion (FBM), a typical non‐Markovian diffusion process, is added for the purpose of reflecting stochastic uncertainties and memory effects. Based on the wavelet estimators and the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) algorithm, multi‐sensor observations of degradation variables are analyzed simultaneously to identify model parameters. A closed‐form distribution of system‐level remaining useful life (RUL) is obtained with a mild two‐layer approximation. Relevant case studies are then handled that adequately demonstrate the effectiveness and the practical utility of the proposed method.
A cost‐effectiveness analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Vicente Emilio , Núñez‐Alfonsel Javier , Ielpo Benedetto , Ferri Valentina , Caruso Riccardo , Duran Hipolito , Diaz Eduardo , Malave Luis , Fabra Isabel , Pinna Eva , Isernia Roberta , Hidalgo Alvaro , Quijano Yolanda
Published: February 2020

Aim

There is no study in the literature that evaluates the cost‐effectiveness of robotic distal pancreatectomy (RDP) over laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy (LDP). We performed a comparative study of RDP and LDP with the aim of evaluating clinical and cost‐effective outcomes.

Material and Methods

This is an observational, comparative prospective nonrandomized study. The primary end point was to compare the cost‐effectiveness differences between both groups. A willingness to pay of €20 000 and €30 000 per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY) was used as a threshold to recognize which treatment was most cost‐effective.

Results

A total of 31 RDP and 28 LDP have been included. The overall mean total cost was similar in both groups (RDP: €9712.15 versus LDP: €9424.68; P > .5). Mean QALYs for RDP (0.652) was higher than that associated with LDP (0.59) (P > .5).

Conclusion

This study seems to provide data of cost‐effectiveness between RDP and LDP approaches, showing some benefits for RDP.
A proposed framework for improved software requirements elicitation process in SCRUM: Implementation by a real‐life Norway‐based IT project
Authors: Saeeda Hina , Dong Junyu , Wang Yong , Abid Muhammmad Adil
Published: February 2020

Software requirement engineering (SRE) is the initial stage of the software engineering process and entails several challenges relating to the identification, implementation, evolution, and management of requirements for the development of software systems that meet the desired functionality quality standards. Agile software development (ASD) is a well‐known software development process that follows a lightweight and adaptive methodology to support the incremental development of software systems. Since the ASD follows an adaptive procedure (ie, a flexible, nanostructured, and dynamic approach) of software development, it becomes challenging to perform SRE that follows a structured approach for managing software requirements throughout the life cycle of software development. The primary challenges for SRE, while pursuing an ASD, include, but are not limited to, identification of incomplete requirements, implementation of vague requirements, prioritization of secondary functional requirements, and compromise on users' involvement that negatively impacts the software system's functionality and quality. To overcome these challenges, some of the recent research efforts have focused on managing different phases of SRE during software development using the ASD. However, there is a lack of solutions that provide software engineers/practitioners with a solution. Besides, frameworks to effectively manage all the phases of SRE as per the needs of the ASD are needed. We propose a framework that unifies joint requirements document (JRD) and SCRUM to incrementally (a) identify, (b) implement, (c) evolve, and (d) manage system requirements throughout the software development cycle. We have used the action research method to qualitatively validate the proposed framework based on data and user requirements collected from a product‐focused (multinational) Norway‐based software company. The results of the validation are based on statistical analysis that reflects the usefulness of the proposed framework for SRE in ASD‐based software engineering and development. Future research is the possible application of a machine learning approach (es) in the intended context for agile requirements elicitations.
The Effect of Needle Tips Interval Distance in Ozone Generation Using Triple Needle‐Plane Electrodes
Authors: Okada Sho , Nakamura Kensuke , Sakamoto Kanae , Ueno Hideki
Published: February 2020

Ozone has much attention in many industrial fields. To materialize higher ozone generation efficiency, it is necessary to elucidate the relationship between discharge characteristics for discharge electrode system and ozone generation concentration. To clarify the improvement of mechanism on the multiple needle‐to‐plane configurations, the discharge characteristics and ozone generation characteristics for a multiple needle electrode system with various needle tip distances have been investigated. In this experiment, the maximum ozone yield at needle tip interval of d = 0.5 mm was improved by the minimum discharge power, the local maximal at d = 0.5 mm of discharge volume and the same ozone generation compared with those for d = 0 mm and d = 1 mm. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Recent advances in photoacoustic contrast agents for in vivo imaging
Authors: Upputuri Paul Kumar , Pramanik Manojit
Published: February 2020

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a noninvasive hybrid imaging modality offering rich optical contrast and high depth‐to‐resolution ratio deep‐tissue imaging. Endogenous chromophores present in the body such as hemoglobin, lipid, melanin, and so on provide strong photoacoustic contrast due to their strong light absorption in certain optical window. To enhance the performance of PAI further, researchers have developed several exogenous contrast agents such as metallic nanoparticles, carbon‐based nanomaterials, quantum dots, organic small molecules, semiconducting polymer nanoparticles, and so on. These exogenous contrast agents not only help improving the imaging contrast, but also make targeted molecular imaging possible. In this review article, we first discuss the state‐of‐the‐art PAI techniques with endogenous contrast mechanism. Later, we provide an overview of recent progress in the development of exogenous photoacoustic contrast agents for in vivo imaging applications. Finally, we present the pros/cons of the existing PA contrast agents along with future challenges of contrast agent‐based PAI for biomedical applications.

This article is categorized under:

Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Non-integrability on AdS3 supergravity backgrounds
Authors: Filippas Kostas
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We investigate classical integrability on two recently discovered classes of back- grounds in massive IIA supergravity. These vacua are of the form AdS3 × S2 × ℝ × CY2, they preserve small $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (0, 4) supersymmetry and are associated with D8−D6−D4−D2 Hanany-Witten brane set-ups. We choose an appropriate string embedding and use differential Galois theory on its associated Hamiltonian system, intending to produce the conditions under which Liouvillian solutions may occur. By constraining the parameters of the system according to the consistency of the associate brane set-ups we prove that no such conditions exist, yielding the complete non-integrability of these vacua. That is, up to the trivial cases where the background reduces to the Abelian and non-Abelian T-dual of AdS3 × S3 × T4.
Electric-magnetic duality in the quantum double models of topological orders with gapped boundaries
Authors: Wang Hongyu , Li Yingcheng , Hu Yuting , Wan Yidun
Published: February 2020

Abstract

We generalize the electric-magnetic (EM) duality in the quantum double (QD) models to the extended QD models of topological orders with gapped boundaries. We also map the extended QD models to the extended Levin-Wen (LW) models with gapped boundaries. To this end, we Fourier-transform and rewrite the extended QD model on a trivalent lattice with a boundary, where the bulk gauge group is a finite group G. Gapped boundary conditions of the model before the transformation are known to be characterized by the subgroups K ⊆ G supplying the boundary degrees of freedom. We find that after the transformation, the boundary conditions are then characterized by the Frobenius algebras AG,K in RepG. An AG,K is the dual space of the quotient of the group algebra of G over that of K , and RepG is the category of the representations of G. The EM duality on the boundary is revealed by mapping the K ’s to AG,K ’s. We also show that our transformed extended QD model can be mapped to an extended LW model on the same lattice via enlarging the Hilbert space of the latter. Moreover, our transformed extended QD model elucidates the phenomenon of anyon splitting in anyon condensation.
On the variety generated by completions of representable relation algebras
Authors: Hodkinson Ian
Published: February 2020

Maddux recently defined the variety V generated by the completions of representable relation algebras. In this note, we observe that V is canonical, answering Maddux’s problem 1.1(3), and show that the variety of representable relation algebras is not finitely axiomatisable over V.
Amenities and the geography of innovation: evidence from Chinese cities
Authors: Zhang Min , Partridge Mark D. , Song Huasheng
Published: February 2020

Studies in the regional innovation literature have largely focused on the role of economic, structural, demographic, and institutional factors, but very few studies shed light on the role of amenities. This paper investigates this question by examining how amenities shape the geography of innovation in China. The empirical results based on city-level data suggest that both natural and consumer amenities are positively associated with regional innovation. Specifically, amenities related to air quality, sunshine, public transportation, educational resources, and healthcare services matter most. Further, the analysis suggests the influence of amenities on innovation is closely linked to city characteristics such as income, density, and human capital. Therefore, to formulate innovation-driven growth, these results suggest that more attention should be paid to the role of amenities and amenity-related strategies should be tailored to city characteristics.
Adult Presentations of Congenital Midgut Malrotation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Neville Jonathan J. , Gallagher Jack , Mitra Anuja , Sheth Hemant
Published: February 2020

Background

Adult midgut malrotation is a rare cause of an acute abdomen requiring urgent intervention. It may also present in the non‐acute setting with chronic, non‐specific symptoms. The objective of this study is to identify the clinical features, appropriate investigations and current surgical management associated with adult malrotation.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, identifying confirmed cases of adult malrotation. Patient demographics, clinical features, investigation findings and operative details were analysed.

Results

Forty‐five reports met the inclusion criteria, totalling 194 cases. Mean age was 38.9 years (n = 92), and 52.3% were male (n = 130). The commonest presenting complaints were abdominal pain (76.8%), vomiting (35.1%) and food intolerance (21.6%). At least one chronic symptom was reported in 87.6% and included intermittent abdominal pain (41.2%), vomiting (12.4%) and obstipation (11.9%). Computerised tomography scanning was the most frequent imaging modality (81.4%), with a sensitivity of 97.5%. The whirlpool sign was observed in 30.9%; abnormalities of the superior mesenteric axis were the commonest finding (58.0%). Ladd's procedure was the most common surgical intervention (74.5%). There was no significant difference in resolution rates between emergency and elective procedures (p = 0.46), but length of stay was significantly shorter for elective cases. (p = 0.009). There was no significant difference in risk of mortality, or symptom resolution, between operative and conservative management (p = 0.14 and p = 0.44, respectively).

Conclusion

Malrotation in the adult manifests with chronic symptoms and should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with abdominal pain, vomiting and food intolerance.