bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new high speed and low power decoder/encoder for Radix‐4 Booth multiplier
Authors: Ghasemi Mir Majid , Fathi Amir , Mousazadeh Morteza , Khoei Abdollah
Published: February 2021

The proposed booth decoder/encoder unit is an ultrahigh‐speed unit among the reported ones which was designed by modifying and creating a new format truth table with 0.18 μm CMOS technology. According to the modified truth table, four cases are defined, and a proper circuit for each case is designed. The proposed structure is discussed considering the possible problems such as the swing and discharge problems. The gate‐level delay of the proposed structure and other related works have been calculated and are compared. The propagation delay of the proposed structure has been calculated and simulated to validate the data. To justify the comparisons, other related works have been simulated again with the same condition. The propagation delay of the proposed structure is 226 ps, which is minimum compared to previous related works. The proposed structure reduces the delay by 30–200% comparing related works and also improves the delay of the multiplier 4–21%. The power consumption and the area of the structure are 477 μw and 20 × 18 μm2, respectively. In this paper, Hspice software for simulating, MATLAB for numerical calculations, and Cadence for designing the layout of the proposed structure have been used.
Cytomorphological and immunohistochemical features of renal and extrarenal rhabdoid tumors
Authors: D Priya , Sadasivan Baalu , Patil Okaly Geeta V , MukundaPai Malathi , Alashetty Soumya , B L Kavitha
Published: February 2021

Background

Rhabdoid tumors are rare, highly lethal neoplasms characterized by alterations of SMARCB1 gene in chromosome 22, which occurs in infants and children. Fine needle aspiration (FNA) is an effective technique to diagnose this tumor when combined with Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and molecular genetics. In this study, we describe four cases of renal and extra‐renal rhabdoid tumor of which three cases were diagnosed on FNA with IHC.

Materials and methods

The study includes four children with renal and extrarenal rhabdoid tumor retrieved from cytology archives. FNA was done with cell block, IHC, and cytogenetics. The cytomorphology with ancillary studies were reviewed along with histopathology which was available in 3 out of 4 cases.

Results

All the four cases had similar cytomorphologic features comprising of large cells having vesicular nuclei which can be central or eccentric with prominent nucleoli and abundant pale cytoplasm. Few cells had intracytoplasmic hyaline inclusion. Cell block with IHC confirmed the diagnosis in three cases. One case in which cell block could not be made the diagnosis was confirmed on biopsy with IHC.

Conclusion

Rhabdoid tumors are uncommon but aggressive neoplasms with poor prognosis. Our study highlights that they can be diagnosed accurately on FNA cytomorphology when combined with IHC on cell block.
Plant functional traits reflect different dimensions of species invasiveness
Authors: Palma Estibaliz , Vesk Peter A. , White Matt , Baumgartner John B. , Catford Jane A.
Published: February 2021

Trait‐based invasiveness studies typically categorize exotic species as invasive or noninvasive, implicitly assuming species form two homogenous groups. However, species can become invasive in different ways (e.g., high abundance, fast spread), likely relying on different functional traits to do so. As such, binary classification may obscure traits associated with invasiveness. We tested whether (1) the way in which invasiveness is quantified influences its correlation with functional traits and (2) different demography‐based metrics are related to different sets of traits. Using a case study of 251 herbs exotic to Victoria, Australia, we quantified species’ invasiveness using 10 metrics: four continuous, demography‐based dimensions of invasiveness (spread rate, local abundance, geographic and environmental range sizes) and six binary classifications of invasiveness (based on alternative sources and invasion criteria). We examined the correlation between species’ invasiveness and a set of four traits known to relate to plant demography and invasion. Then, we examined whether different demographic dimensions of invasiveness were better explained by different sets of traits. We found that the way invasiveness was quantified was important: different traits were linked with different invasiveness metrics, and some traits showed opposite effects across metrics. Species with fast spread were either tall with small seeds (i.e., good colonizers), or had heavy, animal‐dispersed seeds. Plants with a large environmental range had greater plasticity for some traits. Locally abundant plants had low SLA and heavy seeds (i.e., strong competitors). Animal dispersal was also key to reach a large geographic range. No traits were consistently related to the six binary classifications. Our results indicate that exotic plants are invasive in different ways and rely on different combinations of traits to be so. Some traits (e.g., seed mass) had complex relationships with invasion: they apparently promote, hampered, or had no influence on different dimensions of invasiveness. Our findings are consistent with the notion that plant species use strategies that may be near optimal under some, but not all, ecological conditions. Compared to binary classifications of invasiveness, the use of invasiveness dimensions advances clearer hypothesis testing in invasion science.
Estuarine fishes associated with intertidal oyster reefs characterized using environmental DNA and baited remote underwater video
Authors: Cole Victoria J. , Harasti David , Lines Rose , Stat Michael
Published: February 2021

It has been widely shown that oyster reefs enhance local biodiversity and fisheries production. To determine the importance of intertidal remnant estuarine oyster reefs compared to unstructured sandy habitats over small spatial scales (<1 km) to fishes, assemblages were sampled with two nondestructive methods: baited underwater remote videos (BRUVs) and environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding. Fish diversity from eDNA was characterized using three metabarcoding assays, and the assemblages differed with each, as well as to that detected by BRUVs. Overall, 112 fish genera were identified, with 78 more genera detected using eDNA metabarcoding than those observed with BRUVs. Both eDNA and BRUVs resolved a higher number of fish genera associated with oyster reefs than with sand sites, and a different fish composition between habitats was also resolved using each method. Furthermore, eDNA was shown to be useful toward characterizing the gamma diversity of the estuary, due to the intertidal nature and hydrodynamics of the system, as well as the alpha diversity associated with oyster reefs and sand sites. This study reinforces the importance of using multiple metabarcoding assays along‐side BRUVs for sampling assemblages of fishes and demonstrates the utility of using both methods in studies of biodiversity and future management of intertidal estuarine systems.
A New Approach to the Dissolution Tests Management to Obtain Kinetic and Thermodynamic Data: Release of a Model Drug from Glyceryl Behenate Matrix Tablets
Authors: Slezáková Barbora , Matzick Kevin , Komersová Alena , Lochař Václav , Bartoš Martin , Mužíková Jitka , Haddouchi Samir
Published: February 2021

This study is focused on the use of glyceryl behenate as a lipophilic excipient of matrix tablets providing controlled drug release. The aim of this study is to evaluate activation energy (EA) and changes of the thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔS, ΔG) of a dissolution process. These values, which have not yet been published, can lead to better understanding of a drug release mechanism and can extend the use options of glyceryl behenate in the pharmaceutical industry. Values of ΔH, ΔS, ΔG and EA, providing an overall thermodynamic view on the studied matrix tablets, are evaluated based on the temperature‐dependences of the release rate constant of a model drug (temperature range 25 ‐ 45 °C). The studied lipophilic matrix tablets contain 10% to 50% of glyceryl behenate. Dissolution testing is carried out in an aqueous solution of HCl with addition of NaCl (pH1.2). Positive values of ΔH in the range of 3.83 to 56.13 kJ mol‐1 and positive values of ΔG indicate that the dissolution of the studied glyceryl behenate matrix tablets is an endothermic process which does not proceed spontaneously (in a temperature range of 25 ‐ 45 °C). The negative slope of the linear curves of enthalpy‐entropy compensation confirms the entropy‐driven dissolution.

Practical Applications: A better understanding of the dissolution process is an important aspect, e.g., in the field of drug formulation strategy. In this study, it is confirmed that the influence of temperature on the model drug release rate is negligible for tablets containing more than 40% of glyceryl behenate. It is an important result for drug design due to the reduction of risk of a possible dose dumping effect induced by temperature and the prevention of in vivo therapeutic failure.
Synthesis of Vinylnaphthofurans and NMR Analysis of their Photoswitching
Authors: Graça Vânia , Berthet Jérôme , Sousa Céu M. , Delbaere Stephanie , Coelho Paulo J.
Published: February 2021

An easy synthesis of photochromic vinylnaphthofurans by the acid‐catalyzed one‐pot reaction of naphthols with but‐2‐yne‐1,4‐diols is described. These uncolored polyaromatic compounds are activated by UV light, at room temperature, and converted through a stilbene‐type electrocyclization into a thermally stable orange species, which can be switched back using visible light. The behavior of these photoswitches was elucidated using NMR, which allowed to identify the photoisomers and some side‐products, formed after prolonged UV irradiation.
Unaccompanied refugee minors and resettlement: Turning points towards integration
Authors: Andersson Elin Sofia , Skar Ane‐Marthe Solheim , Jensen Tine K.
Published: February 2021

Resettling into a new country may pose many challenges for unaccompanied refugee minors (URMs). In this study we seek to get a better understanding of these challenges through analysing interviews with 48 URMs five years after their arrival in Norway, using the concept of turning points as an analytic frame. Gaining a sense of security, feeling affiliated, being loved and cared for, and becoming independent were identified as important turning points. Despite high levels of agency, many of the youths struggled to fulfil these basic needs, possibly due to limited relational and cultural resources. These struggles seemed to interfere with their capacity to participate in important developmental activities, affecting their well‐being and making integration difficult. This study's results accentuate the need for better systems and assistance from people in their support system to help URMs towards feeling secure, affiliated, loved, and independent as this may facilitate resettlement and integration.
Investigation of Simultaneous Influences of Significant Charging Factors on Lithium‐Ion Batteries and Identifying Interaction Effects
Authors: Morali Uğur
Published: February 2021

Lithium‐ion batteries are an essential technology with extensive use in numerous electric applications. A complete understanding of the simultaneous effects of charging factors such as state‐of‐charge (SOC), C‐rate, and rest period is essential to manage lithium‐ion batteries. This study aims to determine the significant charging factors influencing the battery dynamics to provide detailed insights into the relationship between the selected charging factors and the battery dynamics. The cathodic charge transfer resistance and the ohmic resistance are substantially affected by the C‐rate, whereas the SOC dominantly contributes to only the Rt;c. The effect of the SOC on the ohmic resistance and the cathodic charge transfer resistance depends on the C‐rate. The cathode charge transfer resistance is the most sensitive dynamic parameter to charging factors. The solid electrolyte interphase formation charge transfer resistance is the most stable battery dynamic parameter. The sensitivity analysis expressly shows the part of the lithium‐ion battery that needs to be improved to provide better performance under the implemented charging protocols. Comprehensive analysis of the simultaneous effects of charging factors on battery dynamics can also be used in a battery management system to measure changes in battery dynamics that will support lithium‐ion battery controls.
Damage detection via modal analysis of masonry structures using shaking table tests
Authors: Pepi Chiara , Cavalagli Nicola , Gusella Vittorio , Gioffrè Massimiliano
Published: February 2021

In the last two decades, the use of modal parameters to detect and localize structural damage has gained increasing interest in the scientific community. The work reported in the literature mainly deals with the change of natural frequencies due to changes in structural properties given by damage. This approach relies on the accurate modal parameters estimation, which is still a very difficult task especially when complex structural systems are of interest. Furthermore, damage detection and localization can be highly inaccurate if natural frequencies are used only, regardless of the associated mode shapes. This paper investigates the effectiveness of vibration‐based methods for dynamic identification and damage detection on masonry structures using experimental tests and operational modal analysis. In particular, ambient vibration tests are first used to obtain modal parameters of two different building models made up of unreinforced and confined masonry, respectively. A shaking table is then used to give a sequence of increasing seismic loads to each of the two masonry models. Damage‐induced variations of the modal parameters, i.e., natural frequencies and associated mode shapes, are estimated after each seismic level using the structural vibrations caused by a low‐level white noise base excitation. The obtained results give useful information on the effectiveness of vibration‐based methods to detect and localize different damage patterns on masonry structures using changes in the modal parameters. Furthermore, it was possible to assess the different seismic performance of the confined masonry structural system compared to the unreinforced masonry.
Risk estimation of the disaster waste generated by both ground motion and tsunami due to the anticipated Nankai Trough earthquake
Authors: Ishibashi Hiroki , Akiyama Mitsuyoshi , Kojima Takayuki , Aoki Koki , Koshimura Shunichi , Frangopol Dan M.
Published: February 2021

The amount of disaster waste is one of the most important performance indicators in quantifying the resilience of a community. In fact, disaster waste can have significant negative impacts on the environment in affected regions and hinder the postdisaster recovery process. Appropriate disaster waste management should be developed in Japan before the occurrence of the Nankai Trough earthquake. It is expected that the seismic and tsunami intensities caused by the anticipated Nankai Trough earthquake will be substantially larger than those caused by the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake. In this paper, a risk‐based methodology is presented for estimating the amount of disaster waste generated by both the ground motions and the tsunami due to the anticipated Nankai Trough earthquake. First, Monte Carlo simulation‐based probabilistic hazard analyses are performed to obtain seismic and tsunami hazard curves considering the uncertainty associated with fault movement along the Nankai Trough. Structural damage data associated with past earthquakes are used to develop seismic and tsunami fragility curves. The amount of disaster waste generated from a single structure is defined as the generation unit and is determined based on past disasters. Finally, with the aid of a geographic information system, the risk of disaster waste can be estimated using the hazard and fragility curves and the generation units. As an illustrative example, the risk curves and expected values associated with disaster waste in Mie Prefecture, Japan, are estimated based on the proposed framework.
Effect of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil, NaCl, acid, time, and temperature on the growth of Listeria monocytogenes strains in broth and minced rainbow trout
Authors: Hosseini Setayesh , Abdollahzadeh Esmail , Ranaei Vahid , Mahmoudzadeh Maryam , Pilevar Zahra
Published: February 2021

The small outbreaks of listeriosis as one of the leading causes of food poisoning‐associated deaths occur more than previously reported. In current study, the growth ability of Listeria monocytogenes strains isolated from different sources of food and human origin was measured under salt stress (0.5%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%) and acid environments (pH = 6.64 and 5.77) for 96 hr by using a Bioscreen C microbiology reader at 37°C. In further steps of this study, after analysis of constituents of Zataria multiflora Boiss. essential oil (ZMEO), the sensory evaluation of the treated fish meat with ZMEO was performed. Then, the fish isolate of L. monocytogenes was exposed to sensory acceptable and subminimum inhibitory concentrations (subMICs) of ZMEO in fish broth and minced fish meat during incubation at abuse (12°C), room (22°C), and optimum (37°C) temperatures for 48 hr. The MIC of NaCl against four strains of L. monocytogenes was 10% at 37°C. The maximum optical densities (ODs) and under curve areas (AUC) of growth patterns in higher pH value and lower contents of NaCl followed the order of 21C > 6F > 66C > 22C of L. monocytogenes strains, while the lag time was prolonged in the reverse order. The maximum OD, growth, and lag times of samples treated with higher contents of NaCl and lower pH value were affected in a different order. The organoleptic evaluation showed that the fish meat treated with less than 0.5% of ZMEO was sensory acceptable. The population of L. monocytogenes remained relatively constant at the inoculation level of 107 cfu/ml (or g) at 12°C in broth and minced fish mediums. The inhibitory antilisterial activity of essential oil as an extensive‐used plant for food and pharmacological applications is negligible due to possible adverse sensory and toxic effects at relevant high doses.
Perspectives for chitosan‐based membranes in CO2/N2 separation : Structure‐property relationship
Authors: Borgohain Rajashree
Published: February 2021

Extensive research has been conducted on a variety of processes for abating the increasing CO2 emissions which have been causing adverse effects on the environment. Among these, gas separation membranes have the potential to overcome a number of limitations of existing technologies by reducing the cost of operations and providing an efficient, compact module which can be employed for separating CO2 from natural gas and post‐combustion flue gas streams. Recently, chitosan and its derivatives have proven their ability to form CO2‐selective facilitated transport membranes through the utilization of the amino group fixed site carriers present in the polymer. Later, the performance of chitosan membrane can be substantially improved by carrier enrichment. This review aims to cover the structure‐property relations of chitosan and its film‐forming derivatives, with a brief discussion of the advantages and challenges in using these polymers. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The default mode network and cognition in Parkinson's disease: A multimodal resting‐state network approach
Authors: Ruppert Marina C. , Greuel Andrea , Freigang Julia , Tahmasian Masoud , Maier Franziska , Hammes Jochen , van Eimeren Thilo , Timmermann Lars , Tittgemeyer Marc , Drzezga Alexander , Eggers Carsten
Published: February 2021

Involvement of the default mode network (DMN) in cognitive symptoms of Parkinson's disease (PD) has been reported by resting‐state functional MRI (rsfMRI) studies. However, the relation to metabolic measures obtained by [18F]‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) is largely unknown. We applied multimodal resting‐state network analysis to clarify the association between intrinsic metabolic and functional connectivity abnormalities within the DMN and their significance for cognitive symptoms in PD. PD patients were classified into normal cognition (n = 36) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 12). The DMN was identified by applying an independent component analysis to FDG‐PET and rsfMRI data of a matched subset (16 controls and 16 PD patients) of the total cohort. Besides metabolic activity, metabolic and functional connectivity within the DMN were compared between the patients' groups and healthy controls (n = 16). Glucose metabolism was significantly reduced in all DMN nodes in both patient groups compared to controls, with the lowest uptake in PD‐MCI (p < .05). Increased metabolic and functional connectivity along fronto‐parietal connections was identified in PD‐MCI patients compared to controls and unimpaired patients. Functional connectivity negatively correlated with cognitive composite z‐scores in patients (r = −.43, p = .005). The current study clarifies the commonalities of metabolic and hemodynamic measures of brain network activity and their individual significance for cognitive symptoms in PD, highlighting the added value of multimodal resting‐state network approaches for identifying prospective biomarkers.
Containing costs in the Italian local healthcare market
Authors: Riganti Andrea
Published: February 2021

We aim to investigate the cost containment effects of the creation in 2005 of agencies specifically responsible for all technical and administrative services within the regional healthcare system of the Tuscany region of Italy. We seek to contribute to the existing literature on the centralization and decentralization of purchases and technical services by assessing the amount of savings produced by these agencies at the intermediate level between local authorities and hospitals and the regional administration. We use the balances of all Italian local health authorities and hospital trusts combined with the synthetic control procedure to create from a donor pool of untreated units a weighted average of observations resembling the exposed units before and after the policy change in 2005. The magnitude of the effect is significant as the creation of these agencies is estimated to have reduced expenditures on auxiliary goods and contracted services by 6% in the period from 2006–2014. Moreover, we find that the cost reduction is not associated with a decrease in the provision of healthcare services and procedures to the general population or in the quality or efficiency of the regional healthcare system itself.
Liver‐Specific Deletion of Mouse Tm6sf2 Promotes Steatosis, Fibrosis, and Hepatocellular Cancer
Authors: Newberry Elizabeth P. , Hall Zoe , Xie Yan , Molitor Elizabeth A. , Bayguinov Peter O. , Strout Gregory W. , Fitzpatrick James A.J. , Brunt Elizabeth M. , Griffin Julian L. , Davidson Nicholas O.
Published: February 2021

Background and Aims

Human transmembrane 6 superfamily 2 (TM6SF2) variant rs58542926 is associated with NAFLD and HCC. However, conflicting reports in germline Tm6sf2 knockout mice suggest no change or decreased very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) secretion and either unchanged or increased hepatic steatosis, with no increased fibrosis. We generated liver‐specific Tm6Sf2 knockout mice (Tm6 LKO) to study VLDL secretion and the impact on development and progression of NAFLD.

Approach and Results

Two independent lines of Tm6 LKO mice exhibited spontaneous hepatic steatosis. Targeted lipidomic analyses showed increased triglyceride species whose distribution and abundance phenocopied findings in mice with liver‐specific deletion of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein. The VLDL triglyceride secretion was reduced with small, underlipidated particles and unchanged or increased apolipoprotein B. Liver‐specific adeno‐associated viral, serotype 8 (AAV8) rescue using either wild‐type or mutant E167K‐Tm6 reduced hepatic steatosis and improved VLDL secretion. The Tm6 LKO mice fed a high milk‐fat diet for 3 weeks exhibited increased steatosis and fibrosis, and those phenotypes were further exacerbated when mice were fed fibrogenic, high fat/fructose diets for 20 weeks. In two models of HCC, either neonatal mice injected with streptozotocin (NASH/STAM) and high‐fat fed or with diethylnitrosamine injection plus fibrogenic diet feeding, Tm6 LKO mice exhibited increased steatosis, greater tumor burden, and increased tumor area versus Tm6 flox controls. Additionally, diethylnitrosamine‐injected and fibrogenic diet–fed Tm6 LKO mice administered wild‐type Tm6 or E167K‐mutant Tm6 AAV8 revealed significant tumor attenuation, with tumor burden inversely correlated with Tm6 protein levels.

Conclusions

Liver‐specific Tm6sf2 deletion impairs VLDL secretion, promoting hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, and accelerated development of HCC, which was mitigated with AAV8‐ mediated rescue.
Hepatic Steatosis and Ectopic Fat Are Associated With Differences in Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue Gene Expression in People With HIV
Authors: Gabriel Curtis L. , Ye Fei , Fan Run , Nair Sangeeta , Terry James G. , Carr John Jeffrey , Silver Heidi , Baker Paxton , Hannah LaToya , Wanjalla Celestine , Mashayekhi Mona , Bailin Sam , Lima Morgan , Woodward Beverly , Izzy Manhal , Ferguson Jane F. , Koethe John R.
Published: February 2021

Persons with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) have subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) dysfunction related to antiretroviral therapy and direct viral effects, which may contribute to a higher risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease compared with human immunodeficiency virus–negative individuals. We assessed relationships between SAT expression of major adipocyte regulatory and lipid storage genes with hepatic and other ectopic lipid deposits in PWH. We enrolled 97 PWH on long‐term antiretroviral therapy with suppressed plasma viremia and performed computed tomography measurements of liver attenuation, a measure of hepatic steatosis, skeletal muscle (SM) attenuation, and the volume of abdominal subcutaneous, visceral, and pericardial adipose tissue. Whole SAT gene expression was measured using the Nanostring platform, and relationships with computed tomography imaging and fasting lipids were assessed using multivariable linear regression and network mapping. The cohort had a mean age of 47 years, body mass index of 33.4 kg/m2, and CD4 count of 492 cells/mm3. Lower liver attenuation, a marker of greater steatosis, was associated with differences in SAT gene expression, including lower lipoprotein lipase and acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase, and higher phospholipid transfer protein. Lower liver attenuation clustered with lower visceral adipose tissue (VAT) attenuation and greater VAT volume, pericardial fat volume and triglycerides, but no relationship was observed between liver attenuation and SAT volume, SM attenuation, or low‐density lipoprotein. Conclusion: Liver attenuation was associated with altered SAT expression of genes regulating lipid metabolism and storage, suggesting that SAT dysfunction may contribute to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in PWH. SAT gene‐expression relationships were similar for VAT volume and attenuation, but not SM, indicating that ectopic lipid deposition may involve multiple pathways.
Mentees and their mothers: The association between maternal relationship difficulties and targeted outcomes of mentoring
Authors: Williamson Supriya , Lyons Michael D. , Deutsch Nancy L. , Lawrence Edith
Published: February 2021

Maternal relationship characteristics have been found to impact academic and behavioral outcomes for youth. However, less is known about how and through what mechanisms these characteristics impact outcomes for mentored youth. In this study, we examined if mentoring relationship quality mediated the relations between maternal relationship characteristics and academic and behavioral outcomes targeted by mentoring programs. Data were drawn from 205 participants who participated in a mentoring program that pairs adolescent girls with college women mentors for 1 year of mentoring. Mentoring relationship quality was the hypothesized mechanism of change and was included in the analysis as a mediator. Results revealed that maternal relationship characteristics (i.e., maternal quality communication/trust and maternal alienation) were directly related to academic and behavioral outcomes of mentoring. The relationship between maternal relationship characteristics and behavioral outcomes was mediated by mentoring relationship quality. Results suggested that girls with stronger maternal quality communication and trust as well as girls who felt more alienated from their mothers may benefit more from mentoring. Results can be used to inform mentor training to include a focus on relationship development with girls experiencing a variety of relational difficulties with their mothers to help improve targeted mentoring outcomes.
Role of magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging in the diagnosis of noninvasive gastric neoplasia
Authors: Tanaka Keisuke , Maekawa Shinya , Yoshida Takashi , Yamaguchi Tatsuya , Takano Shinichi , Matsuda Shuya , Hayakawa Hiroshi , Ishida Yasuaki , Muraoka Masaru , Kawakami Satoshi , Fukasawa Yoshimitsu , Kuno Toru , Iwamoto Fumihiko , Tsukui Yuya , Kobayashi Shoji , Asakawa Yukiko , Shindo Hiroko , Fukasawa Mitsuharu , Nakayama Yasuhiro , Inoue Taisuke , Uetake Tomoyoshi , Ohtaka Masahiko , Sato Tadashi , Mochizuki Kunio , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: February 2021

Background and Aim

There are no globally approved, distinguishing criteria enabling the classification of gastric adenomas and intramucosal carcinomas for differential diagnosis of noninvasive neoplasia (NIN).

Methods

Next‐generation sequencing of 50 cancer‐related genes was undertaken on 68 pathologically diagnosed microdissected gastric neoplasms (25 adenomas, 27 intramucosal carcinomas, and 16 submucosal carcinomas) obtained during endoscopic submucosal dissection. Findings from magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging (M‐NBI) of 52 NINs (the 25 adenomas and 27 intramucosal carcinomas) were compared with these data.

Results

Among all 68 neoplasms, the most frequently mutated genes were APC (76% in adenoma, 11.1% in intramucosal carcinoma, and 0% in submucosal carcinoma; P < 0.001) and TP53 in intramucosal and submucosal carcinomas (8% in adenoma, 48.1% in intramucosal carcinoma, and 75% in submucosal carcinoma; P < 0.001). Dividing the NIN neoplasms into five groups according to their mutational status (A1: APC mutation, A2: APC + α mutation, B: APC + TP53 mutation, C: TP53 mutation, D: no mutation in either APC or TP53) resulted in almost identical diagnoses by pathology and M‐NBI for groups A1 (12/13, 92%), C (12/13, 92%), and D (16/17, 94%) but not for groups A2 (3/7, 43%) or B (0/2, 0%). This finding implies that NINs with the APC + α mutation have carcinoma‐like endoscopic features despite most being judged as adenomas by pathology.

Conclusion

A diagnosis of NINs by pathology or M‐NBI in the subset of gastric tumors classified by cancer‐related mutations is not completely identical, suggesting the possible additional role of M‐NBI in diagnosing NINs. Further studies are needed to confirm this.
The spectrum of peripheral neuropathy in disorders of the mitochondrial trifunctional protein
Authors: Grünert Sarah C. , Eckenweiler Matthias , Haas Dorothea , Lindner Martin , Tsiakas Konstantinos , Santer René , Tucci Sara , Spiekerkoetter Ute
Published: February 2021

Peripheral neuropathy is a known irreversible long‐term complication of long‐chain 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (LCHADD) and mitochondrial trifunctional protein deficiency (MTPD), two inherited disorders of mitochondrial long‐chain fatty acid oxidation. The underlying pathophysiology of neuropathy is still not fully understood. We report electrophysiological studies and neurological findings in a series of 8 LCHAD‐deficient and 11 MTP‐deficient patients. The median age at time of the study was 8.0 years (0.5‐25 years). The overall prevalence of neuropathy was 58% with neuropathic symptoms being slightly more common in MTPD compared to LCHADD (70% vs 50%, respectively). Onset of neuropathy was significantly earlier in MTPD patients compared to LCHADD patients (median age at onset 4.7 vs 15.3 years, respectively, P = .047). In four patients, isolated peripheral neuropathy was the first and only presenting symptom, and in all four the diagnosis was missed by newborn screening. About half of the patients (45.5%) had a sensorimotor neuropathy, while 27.3% showed a pure motor form and another 27.3% an isolated sensory form. Despite early diagnosis by newborn screening and early initiation of therapy, peripheral neuropathy cannot be prevented in all patients with LCHADD/MTPD and has severe impact on the life of affected patients. Electrophysiology classifies LCHADD/MTPD neuropathy as axonal with secondary demyelination. A novel observation is that in patients with acute, fulminant onset of neuropathy, symptoms can be partly reversible. Further studies are needed to elucidate the underlying pathophysiology of axonal damage and possible therapeutic targets.
MultiparametricMRI‐Based Radiomics Approaches for Preoperative Prediction ofEGFRMutation Status in Spinal Bone Metastases in Patients with Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jiang Xiran , Ren Meihong , Shuang Xue , Yang Huazhe , Shi Dabao , Lai Qingyuan , Dong Yue
Published: February 2021

Background

Preoperative prediction of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation status in patients with spinal bone metastases (SBM) from primary lung adenocarcinoma is potentially important for treatment decisions.

Purpose

To develop and validate multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based radiomics methods for preoperative prediction of EGFR mutation based on MRI of SBM.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 97 preoperative patients with lumbar SBM from lung adenocarcinoma (77 in training set and 20 in validation set).

Field Strength/Sequence

T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, and T2‐weighted fat‐suppressed fast spin echo sequences at 3.0 T.

Assessment

Radiomics handcrafted and deep learning‐based features were extracted and selected from each MRI sequence. The abilities of the features to predict EGFR mutation status were analyzed and compared. A radiomics nomogram was constructed integrating the selected features.

Statistical Tests

The Mann‐WhitneyUtest and χ2test were employed for evaluating associations between clinical characteristics and EGFR mutation status for continuous and discrete variables, respectively. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator was used for selection of predictive features. Sensitivity (SEN), specificity (SPE), and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the ability of radiomics models to predict the EGFR mutation. Calibration and decision curve analysis (DCA) were performed to assess and validate nomogram results.

Results

The radiomics signature comprised five handcrafted and one deep learning‐based features and achieved good performance for predicting EGFR mutation status, with AUCs of 0.891 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.820–0.962, SEN = 0.913, SPE = 0.710) in the training group and 0.771 (95% CI, 0.551–0.991, SEN = 0.750, SPE = 0.875) in the validation group. DCA confirmed the potential clinical usefulness of the radiomics models.

Data Conclusion

Multiparametric MRI‐based radiomics is potentially clinical valuable for predicting EGFR mutation status in patients with SBM from lung adenocarcinoma.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

2
Gamification via mobile applications: A longitudinal examination of its impact on attitudinal loyalty and behavior toward a core service
Authors: Kunkel Thilo , Lock Daniel , Doyle Jason P.
Published: February 2021

Organizations increasingly use gamification to engage with, and influence, consumers’ attitudes and behaviors. In this article, we present findings from a longitudinal, mixed‐method research design that (1) examined the extent to which game design elements created by a third‐party app lead to increased attitudinal loyalty toward core service providers and (2) sought to explain the underlying processes that invoke attitudinal change. Behavioral data collected from app users indicated that knowledge‐focused affordances positively influenced consumer loyalty and explained 11.3% of the variance in attitudinal change. Follow‐up interviews revealed that Rewards, Competition, Sense of Achievement, and Gaining Knowledge were representative of consumers’ motives for using the app, and Engagement and Identity explained how using the gamified application influenced users’ attitudinal loyalty toward the core service. Overall, we contribute to knowledge about how gamified affordances can be used to add value to consumer experiences, both in relation to the gamified consumption experiences, and the focal brand that is serviced by a third‐party app.
Competitors' envy, gamers' pride: An exploration of gamers' divergent behavior
Authors: Sharma Rashmini , Singh Gurmeet , Sharma Shavneet
Published: February 2021

Cheating in games has existed since the beginning of video games. The landscape of gaming and cheating has changed profoundly with its migration to the online environment. This study aims to investigate the unethical behavioral intention of online gamers. The Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Comparison Theory is used to develop a comprehensive framework to understand gamers' cheating intention. This study employs a quantitative approach to collect data from 404 gamers using a random sampling technique. Results show that attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, hedonic motivation, and benign envy influences gamers' online cheating intention. Online cheating intention was found to influence online cheating behavior positively. Looking at the moderating effect of ethical judgment, this study revealed that ethical judgment dampens the positive relationship between attitude, benign envy, and perceived behavioral control on gamers' online cheating intention. This study is the first to explore the impact of different types of envy on divergent gaming behavior. It contributes to the literature by generating insights into an under‐researched area of divergent online gaming behavior.
California legislation renews push to reduce homelessness dramatically
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: February 2021

Proposed state legislation would require state and local government entities in California to establish plans to reduce homelessness and to meet an ambitious numerical goal, in what could be a watershed development for many individuals with serious mental illness.
Social workers support bill to curb violence against workers
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2021

Observing that incidents of violence against health care and social service workers are on the rise and have been exacerbated by the COVID‐19 pandemic, Rep. Joe Courtney (D‐Conn.), a senior member of the House Education and Labor Committee, reintroduced legislation to the 117th Congress on Feb. 22 that would curb the rising rates of workplace violence facing nurses, emergency responders, medical assistants, physicians and social workers.
Mathematical modeling of elastodynamics and cell growth inside a deformable scaffold fitted to the periphery of a bioreactor
Authors: Kumar Prakash , Raja Sekhar G. P.
Published: February 2021

A mathematical model is developed for fluid flow, nutrient transport, and cell growth inside a bioreactor with a scaffold at the periphery and lumen at the centerline. The scaffold material is assumed to be deformable. In order to deal with the deformation of the solid phase and fluid phase inside the scaffold, biphasic mixture theory equations are adopted, which are derived from the theory of mixtures. The flow inside the lumen is governed by Stokes equation. Advection–diffusion–reaction equation is used for the mass balance of the nutrient within the scaffold region. Cell growth depends on the nutrient concentration and is expressed by the Contois equation that accounts for contact inhibition. We use lubrication approximation to reduce the system of hydrodynamic and nutrient transport equations. This leads to a coupled system of partial differential equations (PDEs) with time‐dependent variables. Laplace transformation is used to deal with time‐dependent terms, and Durbin's algorithm is used to retrieve the time dependency. We investigate the outreach of nutrients inside the scaffold region, which regulates the growth of cells at a particular time. Based on the available experimental data, we consider relevant reaction kinematics of the cells and observe the corresponding nutrient distribution inside the bioreactor. The factors that affect the nutrient concentration are lumen radius, porosity, and permeability of the scaffold, Thiele modulus, pressure gradient, and so forth. The total mass transfer rate is computed to understand the nutrient distribution across various regions of the bioreactor.
QSM reconstruction challenge 2.0: A realistic in silico head phantom for MRI data simulation and evaluation of susceptibility mapping procedures
Authors: Marques José P. , Meineke Jakob , Milovic Carlos , Bilgic Berkin , Chan Kwok‐Shing , Hedouin Renaud , van der Zwaag Wietske , Langkammer Christian , Schweser Ferdinand
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To create a realistic in silico head phantom for the second QSM reconstruction challenge and for future evaluations of processing algorithms for QSM.

Methods

We created a digital whole‐head tissue property phantom by segmenting and postprocessing high‐resolution (0.64 mm isotropic), multiparametric MRI data acquired at 7 T from a healthy volunteer. We simulated the steady‐state magnetization at 7 T using a Bloch simulator and mimicked a Cartesian sampling scheme through Fourier‐based processing. Computer code for generating the phantom and performing the MR simulation was designed to facilitate flexible modifications of the phantom in the future, such as the inclusion of pathologies as well as the simulation of a wide range of acquisition protocols. Specifically, the following parameters and effects were implemented: TR and TE, voxel size, background fields, and RF phase biases. Diffusion‐weighted imaging phantom data are provided, allowing future investigations of tissue‐microstructure effects in phase and QSM algorithms.

Results

The brain part of the phantom featured realistic morphology with spatial variations in relaxation and susceptibility values similar to the in vivo setting. We demonstrated some of the phantom’s properties, including the possibility of generating phase data with nonlinear evolution over TE due to partial‐volume effects or complex distributions of frequency shifts within the voxel.

Conclusion

The presented phantom and computer programs are publicly available and may serve as a ground truth in future assessments of the faithfulness of quantitative susceptibility reconstruction algorithms.
Feeling responsible but unsupported: How relatives of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest survivors experience the transition from hospital to daily life – A focus group study
Authors: Dichman Camilla , Wagner Mette Kirstine , Joshi Vicky L. , Bernild Camilla
Published: February 2021

Aim

To generate knowledge about how relatives of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest survivors experience the transition between hospital and daily life. The research question was “how do relatives of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest survivors experience collaboration and communication with healthcare professionals, and what is emphasized as important in the transition from hospital to daily life”.

Design

Qualitative design.

Methods

Six semi‐structured focus group interviews were conducted with 23 relatives of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest survivors who participated in a residential rehabilitation course. Data was collected between November 2018 and March 2019. Transcripts were analysed using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach.

Results

The analysis generated three themes “a necessary presence,” “communication with healthcare professionals on the cardiac ward” and “the abrupt disappearance of the system.” Relatives of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest survivors feel a great responsibility when coping and adjusting to their new life. In the transition to daily life, a focus on systematic involvement and collaboration with relatives should be an essential part of the post‐cardiac arrest pathway.
Nurses' Experiences and Perceptions of two Early Warning Score systems to Identify Patient Deterioration—A Focus Group Study
Authors: Langkjaer Caroline S. , Bove Dorthe G. , Nielsen Pernille B. , Iversen Kasper K. , Bestle Morten H. , Bunkenborg Gitte
Published: February 2021

Aims

To explore Registered Nurses' experiences and perceptions with National Early Warning Score and Individual Early Warning Score to identify patient deterioration.

Design

A qualitative exploratory design.

Methods

Six focus groups were conducted at six Danish hospitals from February to June 2019. Registered Nurses from both medical, surgical and emergency departments participated. The focus groups were analysed using content analysis.

Results

One theme and four categories were identified. Theme: Meaningful in identifying patient deterioration but causing frustration due to lack of flexibility. Categories: (a) Inter‐professional collaboration strengthened through the use of Early Warning Score systems, (b) Enhanced professional development and communication among nurses when using Early Warning Score systems, (c) Detecting patient deterioration by integrating nurses' clinical gaze with Early Warning Score systems and (d) Modification and fear of making mistakes when using Early Warning Score systems.
The foggy world(s) of p63 isoform regulation in normal cells and cancer
Authors: Pokorná Zuzana , Vysloužil Jan , Hrabal Václav , Vojtěšek Borˇivoj , Coates Philip J
Published: February 2021

The p53 family member p63 exists as two major protein variants (TAp63 and ΔNp63) with distinct expression patterns and functional properties. Whilst downstream target genes of p63 have been studied intensively, how p63 variants are themselves controlled has been relatively neglected. Here, we review advances in understanding ΔNp63 and TAp63 regulation, highlighting their distinct pathways. TAp63 has roles in senescence and metabolism, and in germ cell genome maintenance, where it is activated post‐transcriptionally by phosphorylation cascades after DNA damage. The function and regulation of TAp63 in mesenchymal and haematopoietic cells is less clear but may involve epigenetic control through DNA methylation. ΔNp63 functions to maintain stem/progenitor cells in various epithelia and is overexpressed in squamous and certain other cancers. ΔNp63 is transcriptionally regulated through multiple enhancers in concert with chromatin modifying proteins. Many signalling pathways including growth factors, morphogens, inflammation, and the extracellular matrix influence ΔNp63 levels, with inconsistent results reported. There is also evidence for reciprocal regulation, including ΔNp63 activating its own transcription. ΔNp63 is downregulated during cell differentiation through transcriptional regulation, while post‐transcriptional events cause proteasomal degradation. Throughout the review, we identify knowledge gaps and highlight discordances, providing potential explanations including cell‐context and cell–matrix interactions. Identifying individual p63 variants has roles in differential diagnosis and prognosis, and understanding their regulation suggests clinically approved agents for targeting p63 that may be useful combination therapies for selected cancer patients. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.