bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thiol‐ene Hydrogels for Local Delivery of PTH for Bone Regeneration in Critical Size defects
Authors: Wojda Samantha J. , Marozas Ian A. , Anseth Kristi S. , Yaszemski Michael J. , Donahue Seth W.
Published: November 2019

Neither allograft nor commercially available bone graft substitutes provide the same quality of bone healing as autograft. Incorporation of bioactive molecules like parathyroid hormone (PTH) within bone graft substitute materials may provide similar, if not better treatment options to grafting. The goal of this work was to develop a biomaterial system for the local delivery of PTH to large bone defects for promoting bone regeneration. PTH was loaded in a thiol‐ene hydrogel at several concentrations and polymerized in and around an osteoconductive poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) scaffold. PTH was shown to be bioactive when released from the hydrogel for up to 21 days. Eighty percent of the PTH was released by day 3 with the remaining 20% released by day 14. Bone healing was quantified in rat critical size femoral defects that were treated with hydrogel/PPF and 0, 1, 3, 10, or 30 µg of PTH. Although complete osseous healing was not observed in all samples in any one treatment group, all samples in the 10 µg PTH group were bridged fully by bone or a combination of bone and cartilage containing hypertrophic chondrocytes and endochondral ossification. Outcome measures indicated improved defect bridging by a combination of bony and cartilaginous tissue in the 10 μg treatment group compared with empty bone defects and defects treated with only hydrogel/PPF (i.e., without PTH). Given the tailorability of the hydrogel, future studies will investigate the effects of prolonged gradual PTH release on bone healing. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:536–544, 2020
Osmotic Swelling Responses Are Conserved Across Cartilaginous Tissues With Varied Sulfated‐Glycosaminoglycan Contents
Authors: Baylon Eva G. , Levenston Marc E.
Published: November 2019

Determining the influence of tissue composition on the osmotic swelling stress of articular cartilage and meniscus fibrocartilage is important to enhance our understanding of physiology and disease. This osmotic swelling stress is critical for the load‐bearing capability of both tissues and results in part due to the interactions between the negatively charged sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) chains and the ionic interstitial fluid. Changes in sGAG content, as those occurring during the progression of degenerative joint disease, alter such interactions. Here, we compare the time‐varying effects of altered osmotic environments on the confined compression swelling behavior of bovine tissues spanning a range of sGAG concentrations: juvenile articular cartilage, juvenile and adult meniscus, and juvenile cartilage enzymatically degraded to reduce its sGAG content. The transient response to changes in bath conditions was evaluated for explants assigned to one of three compressive offsets (5%, 10%, or 15% strain) and one of three bath conditions (0.1X, 1X, or 10X phosphate‐buffered saline). Our results show that relative responses to alterations to the osmotic environment are consistent across native tissues but differ for degraded juvenile cartilage, demonstrating that changes in sGAG do not completely recapitulate the native swelling behaviors. Further, we found a strong correlation between aggregate modulus and sGAG/collagen, as well as between sGAG and collagen contents across native tissue types, suggesting some conservation of composition–function relationships across a range of tissue types with varying sGAG concentrations. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:785‐792, 2020
Immunonutrition vs Standard Nutrition for Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis (Part 1)
Authors: Yu Kaili , Zheng Xiaoya , Wang Guiyue , Liu Miao , Li Yuhang , Yu Pulin , Yang Mengyuan , Guo Nana , Ma Xiaohui , Bu Yue , Peng Yahui , Han Ci , Yu Kaijiang , Wang Changsong
Published: November 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of immunonutrition vs standard nutrition in cancer patients treated with surgery. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, and Web of Science were searched. Sixty‐one randomized controlled trials were included. Immunonutrition was associated with a significantly reduced risk of postoperative infectious complications (risk ratio [RR] 0.71 [95% CI, 0.64–0.79]), including a reduced risk of wound infection (RR 0.72 [95% CI, 0.60–0.87]), respiratory tract infection (RR 0.70 [95% CI, 0.59–0.84]), and urinary tract infection (RR 0.69 [95% CI, 0.51–0.94]) as well as a decreased risk of anastomotic leakage (RR 0.70 [95% CI, 0.53–0.91]) and a reduced hospital stay (MD −2.12 days [95% CI −2.72 to −1.52]). No differences were found between the 2 groups with regard to sepsis or all‐cause mortality. Subgroup analyses revealed that receiving arginine + nucleotides + ω‐3 fatty acids and receiving enteral immunonutrition reduced the rates of wound infection and respiratory tract infection. The application of immunonutrition at 25–30 kcal/kg/d for 5–7 days reduced the rate of respiratory tract infection. Perioperative immunonutrition reduced the rate of wound infection. For malnourished patients, immunonutrition shortened the hospitalization time. Therefore, immunonutrition reduces postoperative infection complications and shortens hospital stays but does not reduce all‐cause mortality. Patients who are malnourished before surgery who receive arginine + nucleotides + ω‐3 fatty acids (25–30 kcal/kg/d) via the gastrointestinal tract during the perioperative period (5–7 days) may show better clinical efficacy.
Eucalyptus biochar application enhances Ca uptake of upland rice, soil available P, exchangeable K, yield, and N use efficiency of sugarcane in a crop rotation system
Authors: Butphu Sucharat , Rasche Frank , Cadisch Georg , Kaewpradit Wanwipa
Published: November 2019

It was hypothesized that the application of eucalyptus biochar enhances nutrient use efficiencies of simultaneously supplied fertilizer, as well as provides additional nutrients (i.e., Ca, P, and K), to support crop performance and residual effects on subsequent crops in a degraded sandy soil. To test this hypothesis, we conducted an on‐farm field experiment in the Khon Kaen province of Northeastern Thailand to assess the effects of different application rates of eucalyptus biochar in combination with mineral fertilizers to upland rice and a succeeding crop of sugarcane on a sandy soil. The field experiment consisted of three treatments: (1) no biochar; (2) 3.1 Mg ha−1 biochar (10.4 kg N ha−1, 3.1 kg P ha−1, 11.0 kg K ha−1, and 17.7 kg Ca ha−1); (3) 6.2 Mg ha−1 biochar (20.8 kg N ha−1, 6.2 kg P ha−1, 22.0 kg K ha−1, and 35.4 kg Ca ha−1). All treatments received the same recommended fertilizer rate (32 kg N ha−1, 14 kg P ha−1, and 16 kg K ha−1 for upland rice; 119 kg N ha−1, 21 kg P ha−1, and 39 kg K ha−1 for sugarcane). At crop harvests, yield and nutrient contents and nitrogen (N) use efficiency were determined, and soil chemical properties and pH0 monitored. The eucalyptus biochar material increased soil Ca availability (117 ± 28 and 116 ± 7 mg kg−1 with 3.1 and 6.2 Mg ha−1 biochar application, respectively) compared to 71 ± 13 mg kg−1 without biochar application, thus promoting Ca uptake and total plant biomass in upland rice. Moreover, the higher rate of eucalyptus biochar improved CEC, organic matter, available P, and exchangeable K at succeeding sugarcane harvest. Additionally, 6.2 Mg ha−1 biochar significantly increased sugarcane yield (41%) and N uptake (70%), thus enhancing N use efficiency (118%) by higher P (96%) and K (128%) uptake, although the sugar content was not increased. Hence, the application rate of 6.2 Mg ha−1 eucalyptus biochar could become a potential practice to enhance not only the nutrient status of crops and soils, but also crop productivity within an upland rice–sugarcane rotation system established on tropical low fertility sandy soils.
Effect of deep UV laser treatment on silicon‐doped Tin oxide thin film
Authors: Deng Yuxi , Liu Xianzhe , Yuan Weijian , Ning Honglong , Tao Sha , Liu Yang , Ou Zhilong , Wang Xiaofeng , Yao Rihui , Peng Junbiao
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the effect of deep ultraviolet (UV) laser on physical and electrical properties of amorphous Silicon‐doped tin oxide (amorphous Si‐Sn‐O, a‐STO) thin films were studied. Surface morphology, thickness, crystallinity, and optical band gap of a‐STO thin films treated by laser were investigated. Results showed that the decrease of thickness and surface roughness of a‐STO thin films after deep UV laser treatment, and the films maintained an amorphous structure, which implied that the quality of a‐STO thin films were improved. The peak position of oxygen vacancy binding energy became lower; this is caused by an increase in oxygen vacancies resulting in a decrease in coordination number. And the oxygen vacancy content of the a‐STO thin films was increased after deep UV laser treatment. In addition, the optical band gap of a‐STO films was broaden after the deep UV laser treatment. It exploits a new application of deep UV laser in oxide semiconductor.
Occupational exposure of oropharyngeal human papillomavirus amongst otolaryngologists
Authors: Subbarayan Rahul S. , Shew Matthew , Enders Jonathan , Bur Andrés M. , Thomas Sufi M.
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA virus that causes cancer in multiple sites. Although sexual activity is the primary means of oropharyngeal HPV acquisition, studies suggest HPV transmission through occupational exposure from medical instruments and surgical fumes. We assess if aerosolization of HPV16 DNA via electrocautery places otolaryngologists at risk for exposure.

Study Design

Animal and human laboratory model.

Methods

Plasmid (pLXSN16E6E7) expressing HPV p16 E6/E7 genes was transformed into DH5α Escherichia coli cells using the heat shock method. Miniprep and maxiprep purification of transformed DNA with subsequent restriction enzyme double digestion confirmed presence of E6E7 fragment. We injected 2 μg plasmid DNA in 20 μL TE (Tris and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) buffer intradermally into freshly severed mouse tail then cauterized for 5 to 10 seconds. Generated fumes were collected through a suction tube fitted with Whatman filter paper. Filter paper was placed in 100 μL TE buffer. Additionally, six patients undergoing transoral robotic surgery for resection of oropharyngeal cancer were identified, three with p16‐negative tumors and three with p16‐positive tumors. Intraoperatively, Whatman filter paper was exposed to electrocautery fumes, then placed in 100 uL TE buffer. Additional samples were collected from the suction tubing and filter, the surgical mask of the surgeon at head of the bed, and the robot arm.

Results

Samples were analyzed via polymerase chain reaction with an assay sensitivity of 1.5 ng E6E7 DNA. None of the patient or mouse tail samples yielded detectable HPV16 DNA in the electrocautery fumes. We did not detect HPV16 DNA on the surgical masks, suction apparatus, or robot arm intraoperatively.

Conclusions

There is likely minimal risk of occupational exposure to HPV16 via electrocautery fumes.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:2366–2371, 2020
Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency and menière's disease: Interventional versus medical therapy
Authors: Attanasio Giuseppe , Califano Luigi , Bruno Aldo , Giugliano Vincenzo , Ralli Massimo , Martellucci Salvatore , Milella Claudia , de Vincentiis Marco , Russo Francesca Y. , Greco Antonio
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the incidence of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency in Menière's disease patients and the effect of bilateral percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the jugular/azygos veins compared to medical therapy.

Study Design

Prospective case–control study.

Methods

Five hundred fourteen subjects were included in the study, 412 affected by definite Menière's disease, and 102 healthy controls. All patients underwent audiovestibular and vascular examination. Patients with Menière's disease and concomitant cerebrospinal venous insufficiency were divided in two subgroups: patients who underwent vascular intervention with bilateral percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) of the jugular/azygos veins and patients treated with medical therapy.

Results

Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency was diagnosed in 330/412 (80.1%) Menière's disease patients and in 12/102 healthy individuals (11.8%) (P < .001). In the two chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency subgroups, a significant difference in Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores was found between patients in the PTA group compared to patients treated with medical therapy (31 ± 8.6 vs. 48.1 ± 14.4; P < .001); no significant differences were found for the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory scores (50.8 ± 16.58 vs. 49.6 ± 17.5; P = .23). Subjective evaluation of aural fullness was significantly better in patients in the PTA group (P = .003) as well as pure‐tone average, which was significantly different between groups (49.8 ± 16.5 dB in the PTA group vs. 55.8 ± 13 in the medical therapy group; P = .035).

Conclusions

The results of the present study confirm the close relationship between vascular disorders and Menière's disease. The encouraging responses to vascular interventional therapy on Meniére's disease symptoms suggest that this may be a promising path for interpretation and treatment of this complex disease.

Level of Evidence

2b Laryngoscope, 130: 2040–2046, 2020
The hidden land conservation benefits of olive‐based (Olea europaea L.) landscapes: An agroforestry investigation in the southern Mediterranean (Calabria region, Italy)
Authors: Brunori Elena , Maesano Mauro , Moresi Federico Valerio , Matteucci Giorgio , Biasi Rita , Scarascia Mugnozza Giuseppe
Published: November 2019

Olive groves are key elements of the Mediterranean basin landscape. In southern Italy, olive polycultural systems are predominant over specialized ones. These systems occupy marginal and inner areas and are highly susceptible to abandonment. Their ecological functions in sensitive semi‐arid Mediterranean areas have not been studied enough.

The purpose of this study was to address the measurable environmental benefits of olive‐based agroforestry systems in terms of (a) landscape structure, transformation, and degradation risk caused by landslides and wildfires; (b) soil quality; and (c) environmental quality.

Land structure and land vulnerability layers (soil consumption, landslides and wildfires, and soil fertility loss) and spatial data analyses were performed in a QGIS environment.

The land transformation over a recent period (1990–2012) was analysed, and the ecological role of modern and traditional olive grove assets, their impact on landscape quality and their soil carbon storage in agricultural, forested, and semi‐natural areas were quantified.

Rapid land cover change leads to land rewilding, affecting the stability of sloping areas due to the increase in transitional re‐naturalized areas following agricultural abandonment. Under these harsh environmental conditions, traditional olive‐based agroforestry systems are widespread and resilient agricultural approaches that are able to preserve habitat diversity, landscape complexity, and soil health. Extensive sustainable agricultural management may be a pivotal strategy for counteracting land degradation phenomena, such as landslides, wildfires, and the uncontrolled re‐naturalization of terraced systems in the Mediterranean.

The olive‐based agroforestry systems may become smart agricultural landscapes for multipurpose agriculture, forest uses, and for the preservation of lots of ecological services.
Conjugation of artificial humic acids with inorganic soil matter to restore land for improved conservation of water and nutrients
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhang Shuaishuai , Fu Qiang , Antonietti Markus
Published: November 2019

Artificial soil (AS) with a dark–brown appearance and high soil organic matter (SOM) was manufactured under hydrothermal conditions from poor sandy landfill using the 'hydrothermal humification process.' This approach may retrosynthesize the natural clay–humin complex, which is the main contributor for water and ion binding in fertile, natural soils. The structure and morphology of as‐created organic–inorganic composites was examined, and it was shown that the as‐created artificial SOM (A‐SOM) indeed tightly binds to the mineral surfaces, thus creating remediated soil or more general AS. A‐SOM does not change the bulk structure of the involved inorganic minerals but activates their surface. Depending on the biomass used as the starting product, the high effectivity of synthetic humification improves the organic carbon and nitrogen content when compared with the employed sandy soil (SS). The composition was adjusted to be comparable with a reference sample of cultivated soil (2.92% in C content and 7.8% in SOM) to enable a fair referencing. We then analyzed the most frequently used soil quality indicators for agricultural land use and found strong water retention and nutrient conservation, which reflects the successful restoration of mineral–humus conjugation. Pure ASs provide superior performance in the analyzed series, whereas simulated soils (mixture of SS and AS) still exhibit satisfactory capacities of water and ion bonding. The values were found to be very similar to cultivated soils sampled from Germany and Harbin, China.
Three‐dimensional imaging of upper esophageal sphincter resting pressure
Authors: Chitose Shun‐ichi , Shin Yasuro , Sato Kiminori , Hamakawa Sachiyo , Fukahori Mioko , Ono Takeharu , Umeno Hirohito
Published: November 2019

Objective

High‐resolution manometry (HRM) is used to analyze upper esophageal sphincter (UES) physiology. Conventional HRM can yield imprecise measurements of UES resting pressure given its unidirectional sensors and averaging of circumferential pressure. In contrast, three‐dimensional (3D) measurements can yield precise UES resting pressure data over the entire length of the UES. This study conducted a detailed analysis of UES resting pressure as evaluated by 3D‐HRM.

Methods

Seventeen young, healthy adult participants (7 females and 10 males) were recruited. The 3D‐HRM system used includes a pressure sensor catheter (outer diameter, 4 mm) and eight‐channel transducers arranged circumferentially to acquire pressure data at 45° intervals. The catheter was inserted transnasally into the esophagus and automatically retracted at a speed of 1 mm/s. Participants performed the following tasks: maintain resting breathing, perform breath holding, and perform the Valsalva maneuver. Data were obtained and compared per millimeter over the longitudinal UES length.

Results

Clear 3D waveforms were identified, with greater mean UES pressures in anterior‐posterior directions than in lateral directions (P < .05). The anterior distribution was located superior to the posterior portion. Significant differences were observed in mean UES pressures and UES resting integrals between resting breathing and the Valsalva maneuver (P < 0.05). No differences in functional UES length were observed.

Conclusions

The normal UES resting pressure was not directionally uniform in the luminal structure. 3D‐HRM imaging of UES resting pressure can help deepen our understanding of UES physiology.

Level of Evidence

4
Treatment of Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea With Pulsed‐Dye Laser and Oxymetazoline 1.0% Cream: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Suggs Amanda K. , Macri Angela , Richmond Heather , Munavalli Gilly , Friedman Paul M.
Published: November 2019

Background and Objectives

Pulsed‐dye laser (PDL) and oxymetazoline 1.0% cream are each used for the treatment of erythematotelangiectatic (ET) rosacea. PDL targets oxyhemoglobin and can reduce facial erythema and telangiectasias. Oxymetazoline 1.0% cream is an α adrenergic agonist, which has shown to reduce facial erythema. The aim of this study was to determine the degree of erythema improvement and telangiectasia clearance after combination treatment with PDL plus oxymetazoline 1.0% cream.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

This retrospective study was conducted at two sites. Pre‐ and post‐treatment cross‐polarized images from subjects on combination treatment with PDL and oxymetazoline 1.0% cream were graded by a board‐certified dermatologist at each practice. Blinded images were analyzed using the Clinical Erythema Assessment (CEA) Scale (0 = clear and 4 = severe). Unblinded images were analyzed using the five‐point Telangiectasia Scale to determine the degree of improvement post‐treatment compared with baseline (1 = <5% clearance and 5 = 75–100% clearance).

Results

Thirty‐one subjects (20 females, 11 males) of age 51 ± 13 years (mean ± standard deviation) were included in the study after an average of 4 months (range: 1–13) of daily oxymetazoline 1.0% cream and two (range: 1–4) PDL treatments. At baseline, 87% of subjects had CEA Grade 2 (mild erythema) or higher. For erythema, 55% of subjects improved by at least one CEA grade and 13% achieved two grades of improvement post‐treatment. For telangiectasias, 90% of subjects achieved at least a two‐point clearance (5–25%), 62% at least a three‐point clearance (25–50%), and 41% at least a four‐point clearance (50–75%) post‐treatment. Compared with subjects with baseline CEA Grade 1–2 (almost clear to mild erythema), significantly more subjects with baseline CEA Grade 3–4 (moderate to severe erythema) achieved at least one CEA grade of improvement (P = 0.021) and two grades of CEA improvement (P = 0.041). A higher percentage of baseline CEA Grade 3–4 subjects achieved at least a two‐point clearance in telangiectasias (P = 0.055).

Conclusions

Combination treatment with PDL and daily oxymetazoline 1.0% cream can safely and effectively reduce erythema and telangiectasias. Limitations include the retrospective design of the study, small sample size, and lack of a control group. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modulation of Foreign Body Reaction against PDMS Implant by Grafting Topographically Different Poly(acrylic acid) Micropatterns
Authors: Lee Jae Sang , Shin Byung Ho , Yoo Byoung Yong , Nam Sun‐Young , Lee Miji , Choi Juhwan , Park Hansoo , Choy Young Bin , Heo Chan Yeong , Koh Won‐Gun
Published: November 2019

The surface of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) is grafted with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) layers via surface‐initiated photopolymerization to suppress the capsular contracture resulting from a foreign body reaction. Owing to the nature of photo‐induced polymerization, various PAA micropatterns can be fabricated using photolithography. Hole and stripe micropatterns ≈100‐µm wide and 3‐µm thick are grafted onto the PDMS surface without delamination. The incorporation of PAA micropatterns provides not only chemical cues by hydrophilic PAA microdomains but also topographical cues by hole or stripe micropatterns. In vitro studies reveal that a PAA‐grafted PDMS surface has a lower proliferation of both macrophages (Raw 264.7) and fibroblasts (NIH 3T3) regardless of the pattern presence. However, PDMS with PAA micropatterns, especially stripe micropatterns, minimizes the aggregation of fibroblasts and their subsequent differentiation into myofibroblasts. An in vivo study also shows that PDMS samples with stripe micropatterns polarized macrophages into anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages and most effectively inhibits capsular contracture, which is demonstrated by investigation of inflammation score, transforming‐growth‐factor‐β expression, number of macrophages, and myofibroblasts as well as the collagen density and capsule thickness.
Gradient Polymerization–Induced Self‐Assembly: A One‐Step Approach
Authors: Xu Sihao , Zhang Tong , Kuchel Rhiannon P. , Yeow Jonathan , Boyer Cyrille
Published: November 2019

In this work, the authors report a novel single‐step, one‐pot process for the synthesis of self‐assembled nanoparticles using a polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) mechanism. In contrast to conventional approaches employing a pre‐formed macromolecular stabilizer, the disparate reactivities between two monomers, oligo(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (OEGMA) and diacetone acrylamide (DAAm), are exploited instead to synthesize a gradient copolymer directly in aqueous solution. Due to the hydrophobicity of poly(DAAm), these gradient copolymers can self‐assemble in situ to form spheres and worms stabilized by the OEGMA residues. A surprisingly broad range of parameters are identified in which the worm morphology can be stabilized, which is highlighted by significant gelation of the reaction mixture in situ. This single‐step gradient copolymerization approach to PISA is more efficient than conventional two‐step syntheses. These results demonstrate improved reproducibility owing to the production of self‐assembled nanoparticles directly in a one‐pot and single‐step synthesis.
Debt renegotiation under reputation concerns and tolerance for failure
Authors: Sami Hind
Published: November 2019

We propose a career concern model where a privately informed entrepreneur reports the firm financial situation. On this basis, the creditor may offer debt renegotiation. Due to reputation concerns, the entrepreneur may feel reluctant to restructure and may manipulate information. We analyze how creditor attitude towards failure and entrepreneurs reputation concerns interact and influence the restructuring decision. We show that debt renegotiation under more lenient conditions discourages manipulation because entrepreneurs are ensured that their reputation will not suffer from revealing financial difficulties. Intolerant creditors make entrepreneurs more concerned about reputation weakening their incentives to restructure, leading to inefficient continuation of investments.
Settlement reached in ADA violation suit against California school district
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2019

The Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law and Disability Rights California recently announced a settlement with a California‐based school district that will result in improved services and inclusive programs for special education students with disabilities.
Mental health clinicians prepare to strike at Kaiser Permanente in California
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2019

Four thousand psychologists, therapists and other medical professionals are striking at Kaiser Permanente facilities across California Nov. 11–15 to demand that the health maintenance organization demonstrate good faith and fix its broken mental health system that leaves patients waiting up to three months for therapy appointments and therapists overwhelmed with crushing caseloads, according to a news release from the National Union of Healthcare Workers (NUHW).
Micropolar fluid flow through the membrane composed of impermeable cylindrical particles coated by porous layer under the effect of magnetic field
Authors: Yadav Pramod Kumar , Jaiswal Sneha , Puchakatla Jaikanth Yadav
Published: November 2019

In the present work, the magnetohydrodynamic flow of a micropolar fluid through the membrane composed of impermeable cylindrical particles coated by porous layer is considered. The flow of a fluid is taken parallel to an axis of cylinder and a uniform magnetic field is applied in transverse direction of the flow. The problem is solved by using the cell model technique for the flow through assemblage of cylindrical particles. The solution of the problem has been obtained by using no‐slip condition, continuity of velocity and stresses at interfaces along with Happle's no‐couple stress condition as the boundary conditions. The expressions for the linear velocity, micro‐rotational velocity, flow rate and hydrodynamic permeability of the membrane are achieved in this work. The obtained solution for velocities is used to plot the graph against various transport parameters such as, Hartmann number, coupling parameter, porosity, scaling parameter etc. The effect of these transport parameters on the flow velocity, micro‐rotational velocity, and the hydrodynamic permeability of the membrane have been presented and discussed in this work.
Radar absorbing serrated edge for broadband radar cross‐section reduction
Authors: Choi Won‐Ho , Kwak Byeong‐Su , Nam Young‐Woo
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study is to investigate and evaluate the effectiveness of broadband radar cross‐section (RCS) reduction using a radar‐absorbing structure combined with geometric control of edges. The proposed novel design uses a radar‐absorbing structure combined with a serrated edge structure to efficiently improve the absorbing performance of the edge. The primary principle of the RCS reduction in the proposed novel structure is multiple scattering inside the corner reflector shape formed between the serrated edges. Although the absorbing performance of the designed planar absorber has narrowband absorption, the absorber combined with a serrated edge exhibits broadband RCS reduction. In designing a serrated edge shape, a foam core, which is a low‐density and lightweight material, is used to minimize the weight increase. The edge return becomes important for the low observable aircraft platform; hence, the proposed design can be a promising structure for further RCS reduction.
Dynamic B0 shimming of the motor cortex and cerebellum with a multicoil shim setup for BOLD fMRI at 9.4T
Authors: Aghaeifar Ali , Bause Jonas , Leks Edyta , Grodd Wolfgang , Scheffler Klaus
Published: November 2019

Purpose

We assessed how improved static magnetic field (B0) homogeneity with a dynamic multicoil shimming can influence the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) contrast to noise when echo planar imaging (EPI) sequence is used for a motor task functional MRI study. We showed that a multicoil shim setup can be a proper choice for dynamic shimming of 2 spatially distant areas with different inhomogeneity distributions.

Methods

A 16‐channel multicoil shim setup is used to provide improved B0 homogeneity by dynamic slice‐wise shimming. The performance of dynamic B0 shimming was investigated in 2 distinct brain regions, the motor cortex and the cerebellum, in the same experiment during a finger‐tapping task. Temporal SNR (tSNR), geometric distortion of the EPIs, and results of an analysis with a general linear model before and after shimming with the multicoil were compared.

Results

Reduced B0 deviation by 30% and 52% in the cerebellum and motor cortex, respectively, resulted in higher tSNR and a reduction of distortions in the EPI. Statistical analysis applied to the EPIs showed higher t values and increased number of voxels above significance threshold when shimming with the multicoil setup.

Conclusions

Improved B0 homogeneity leads to higher tSNR and enhances the detection of BOLD signal.
Discontinuous deformation analysis based on the multiplicative decomposition of the displacement
Authors: Gong Shilin , Ling Daosheng , Hu Chengbao , Niu Jiajun
Published: November 2019

Updating the block configuration on the basis of additive decomposition and its linearized expression of the displacement increment leads to the low calculation accuracy of the original discontinuous deformation analysis (DDA) and false volume expansion. In this study, the displacement expressions of a small deformation, a large rotation, and the corresponding velocity and acceleration terms on the basis of the initial configuration are presented using multiplicative decomposition. With the use of the principle of virtual work, the stiffness matrix, mass matrix, and force vector of blocks are obtained. Compared with the original DDA, each of the block deformation parameters has obvious physical meaning as a parameter of mechanics, which can be obtained by adding the incremental deformation components of each time step directly without co‐ordinate transformation. Moreover, the proposed modification automatically considers the block deformation produced by centrifugal and Coriolis forces. The analysis of some typical numerical examples have verified the accuracy of the strain and stress calculated by the proposed method, and the current configuration is updated by the total displacements, which completely overcomes the false volume expansion and provides reasonable linear strains.
Nursing case management for people with hypertension in primary health care: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mattei da Silva Ângela Taís , de Fátima Mantovani Maria , Castanho Moreira Ricardo , Perez Arthur Juliana , Molina de Souza Roberto
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Hypertension is a chronic disease that requires continuous and long‐term care to prevent or delay the development of associated complications. Although various interventions for hypertension exist, case management in Brazil's primary healthcare is understudied. We examined nursing case management effectiveness for controlling blood pressure among Brazilian adults with hypertension in the public healthcare system.

Method

A randomized controlled trial with a 12‐month follow‐up was conducted at a primary healthcare clinic in southern Brazil. Adult patients with hypertension were randomly allocated to intervention (n = 47) and usual care groups (n = 47). The nursing case management model includes nursing consultations, telephone contact, home visits, health education, and appropriate referrals. Patient outcomes (blood pressure, body mass index, waist circumference, quality of life, treatment adherence) were assessed at baseline and 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up for the intervention group and at baseline and 12‐month follow‐up for the usual care group. Data were collected from only the intervention group at T6 to avoid contact between the researcher and the usual care group, and to check the care plan and modify it if necessary.

Results

After the intervention, the intervention group's blood pressure decreased significantly compared to the usual care group. The differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure between the groups was −8.3 (intervention)/1.1 (usual care) mmHg (p = .004) and −7.4/−0.6 mmHg (p = .007), respectively. The intervention group had significantly greater improvement in waist circumference (−2.0/1.2 cm), body mass index (− 0.4/0.3), and treatment adherence (4.8/−1.1) than the usual care group (all p < .05).

Conclusion

Nursing case management in primary healthcare may be effective for improving outcomes among patients with hypertension.
Muscle Strengthening, Aerobic Exercise, and Obesity: A Pooled Analysis of 1.7 Million US Adults
Authors: Bennie Jason A. , De Cocker Katrien , Pavey Toby , Stamatakis Emmanuel , Biddle Stuart J. H. , Ding Ding
Published: November 2019

Objective

Both aerobic physical activity and muscle‐strengthening exercise are recommended for obesity prevention. However, at the population level, the independent and/or combined associations of these physical activity modalities with obesity are unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the associations between aerobic physical activity and muscle‐strengthening exercise with obesity among a representative sample of adults.

Methods

Data were pooled from four US public health surveillance surveys from 2011 to 2017. Cross‐sectional associations between adherence to the aerobic physical activity (≥ 150 min/wk) and muscle‐strengthening exercise (≥ 2 times/wk) guidelines with different classes of BMI‐defined obesity were examined using Poisson regression. Prevalence ratios are reported as both unadjusted and adjusted for sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics.

Results

Data were available for 1,677,108 adults (≥ 18 years old). Compared with meeting neither guideline (reference category), meeting both guidelines was associated with the lowest adjusted prevalence ratios (APRs) for the following: Class I obesity and above (BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2), APR = 0.54 (95% CI: 0.53‐0.54); Class II obesity and above (BMI ≥ 35.0 kg/m2), APR = 0.32 (95% CI: 0.31‐0.33); and Class III obesity and above (BMI ≥ 40.0 kg/m2), APR = 0.21 (95% CI: 0.20‐0.21).

Conclusions

Among nearly 1.7 million US adults, meeting both aerobic and muscle‐strengthening exercise guidelines was associated with a lower obesity prevalence, and associations were more pronounced for higher obesity classes.
Bisphosphoric modified amino functional [xFe3O4–2xAl(OH)3]/waterborne polyurethane nanocomposite with superparamagnetism and flame retardancy
Authors: Yang Lei , Fu He‐qing
Published: November 2019

Based on the strong adsorption of the diphosphate group to Fe and Al ions, first, the Fe3O4 and Al (OH)3 nanoparticles were modified by alendronate sodium (ALN), and organic phosphorus coated nanoparticles (Fe3O4‐ALN and Al (OH)3‐ALN) with the active group ─NH2 were prepared. Novel [xFe3O4–2xAl(OH)3]/waterborne polyurethane nanocomposite with superparamagnetism and excellent flame retardancy were prepared by in situ polymerization. The experimental results showed that when the content of Fe3O4‐ALN increased, the Ms increased. And the saturation magnetization reached 14.35 emu/g when the Fe3O4‐ALN content was 10 wt%. The nanoparticle network formed by Fe3O4 and Al (OH)3 can prevent the melting deformation of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) composite film and reduce the burning area. And the dual physical protective layer formed by nanoparticle network and char layer can prevent the combustible gas contacting with oxygen and giving off combustion heat, which effectively reduced the heat and smoke gas release. When the content of xFe3O4–2xAl(OH)3 was 20 wt%, the oxygen index of the composite was 28.4%, and the flame retardancy of nanocomposite was classified as V‐0 rating in the UL‐94 test.
Functionalized ZrP nanosheet with free‐radical quenching capability and its synergism in intumescent flame‐retardant polypropylene
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Lai Xuejun , Li Hongqiang , Zeng Xingrong , Liu Yuncong , Zeng Yunsheng , Jiang Changcheng
Published: November 2019

The combination of catalyzing carbonization and free‐radical quenching mechanism is proposed to be a promising strategy for the preparation of high‐efficiency flame‐retardant polypropylene (PP). Herein, a novel functionalized zirconium phosphate (RQZrP) nanosheet with free‐radical quenching capability was fabricated by decorating macromolecular N‐alkoxy hindered amine (MNOR) onto the surface of ZrP. It was combined with an intumescent flame retardant (IFR) to flame‐retard PP. The results showed that there was a good synergism between RQZrP and IFR, which effectively improved the fire safety of PP. When the content of RQZrP was 2 wt% and IFR was 23 wt%, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) of PP increased from 19.0% to 33.0%, and it achieved a UL‐94 V‐0 rating. Meanwhile, the peak heat release rate (PHRR), total heat release (THR), carbon monoxide production (COP), and carbon dioxide production (CO2P) were significantly decreased. It revealed that nitroxyl radicals generated by RQZrP could capture alkyl radicals and peroxy radicals that produced during the degradation and combustion of PP. Meanwhile, RQZrP acted as a solid acid that catalyzed PP chains rapidly cross‐linking to form char on its surface, and it also played as a supporting skeleton to enhance the strength and compactness of the char layer, thus effectively preventing the transmission of heat, oxygen, and combustible gases.
Synthesis and surface properties of novel fluorinated polyurethane base on F‐containing chain extender
Authors: Zhang Long , Kong Qinggang , Kong Fanxin , Liu Taolin , Qian Haiyan
Published: November 2019

A novel fluorinated chain extender, (1‐(ethyl(2‐hydroxyethyl)amino)‐3‐ ((3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8‐tridecafluorooctyl)oxy)propan‐2‐ol) (FPO), was synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and elemental analysis. Poly (ether urethane)s containing various amounts of the chain extender with fluorinated side chains (FPUs) were prepared by isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI), polytetra‐methylene‐ether‐glycol (PTMG), 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH‐550), and 1,4‐butandiol (BDO). Films of FPUs were investigated by water absorption, contact angle, pencil hardness, adhesive force, and thermal analysis. Coating FPUs on micro‐nano concave‐convex structure plate realizes superhydrophobic performance. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) demonstrated that there is a lot of irregular concave‐convex structure, which forms a typical air cushion model. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis showed that surface fluorine content is 165% more than that of film average fluorine content. The superhydrophobic plate with 10% or higher F‐containing FPUs coating is of outstanding chemical corrosion resistance, excellent solvent resistance, and wear resistance.
Rapid prenatal diagnosis of Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy 1 by combined Bionano optical mapping and karyomapping
Authors: Zheng Yuting , Kong Lingrong , Xu Hui , Lu Yongjie , Zhao Xuechao , Yang Yuxia , Yu Guoliang , li Pidong , Liang Fan , Jin Hongshuai , Kong Xiangdong
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To explore the feasibility of performing rapid prenatal diagnoses of FSHD1 using a combination of Bianano optical mapping and linkage‐based karyomapping.

Methods

DNA specimens from a family that had been previously diagnosed with FSHD1 using Southern Blot analysis were used for this study. Genetic diagnosis of the proband, fetus chorionic amniotic fluid, and aborted fetal tissue was performed using Bianano optical mapping (BOM) together with linkage‐based karyomapping.

Results

BOM analysis showed that the proband's 4q35.2 region contained four D4Z4 repeats and the 4qA permissible allele, consistent with the previous FSHD1 diagnosis obtained by Southern Blotting. BOM analysis of the fetus' 4q35.2 region was consistent with that of the proband. Karyomap analysis revealed that the fetus inherited the affected chromosome segment from the proband. After genetic counseling, the couple choose termination of pregnancy, and we performed gene diagnosis of the abortus tissue by BOM.

Conclusions

Bianano optical mapping can determine the number of D4Z4 repeats and exclude interference of the 10q26.3 homologous region, and in combination with karyomapping, can be used for rapid and accurate prenatal diagnosis of FSHD1.
Cell‐free DNA fetal fraction in twin gestations in single‐nucleotide polymorphism‐based noninvasive prenatal screening
Authors: Hedriana Herman , Martin Kimberly , Saltzman Daniel , Billings Paul , Demko Zachary , Benn Peter
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The performance of noninvasive prenatal screening (NIPS) for fetal aneuploidy in twin pregnancies is dependent on the amount of placentally derived cell‐free DNA, the “fetal fraction (FF),” present in maternal plasma. We report FF values in monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) pregnancies.

Methods

We reviewed FF in pregnancies at 10 to 20 completed weeks gestational age based on single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based NIPS where zygosity was routinely established in twin pregnancies. The cohort included 121 446 (96.3%) singleton, 1454 (1.2%) MZ, and 3161 (2.5%) DZ pregnancies. For DZ twins, individual FFs were measured.

Results

Combined FF for DZ and MZ fetuses were 35% and 26% greater than singletons, respectively. The individual FF contributions from each fetus in DZ twins were, on average, 32% less than singletons. FF in DZ twin pairs were moderately correlated (Pearson correlation coefficient.66). When a threshold of 2.8% FF was applied to define uninterpretable results, 1.7% (2102/121 446) of singletons, 0.8% (11/1454) of MZ pairs, and 5.6% (178/3161) of DZ pairs were uninterpretable.

Conclusion

For optimal aneuploidy NIPS in twin pregnancies, zygosity should be established and in DZ twins FF for both fetuses should be determined to identify those cases where results can be reliably interpreted.
Large‐area atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharges in Ar–HMDSO mixtures: Experiments and fluid modelling
Authors: Loffhagen Detlef , Becker Markus M. , Hegemann Dirk , Nisol Bernard , Watson Sean , Wertheimer Michael R. , Klages Claus‐Peter
Published: November 2019

The electrical discharge characteristics of a large‐area experimental dielectric barrier discharge in argon–hexamethyldisiloxane mixtures containing up to about 1,600 ppm of the monomer is analysed by means of electrical measurements and numerical modelling. A time‐dependent, spatially one‐dimensional fluid model is employed, taking into account the spatial variation of the discharge plasma between the two plane‐parallel dielectrics covering the electrodes. Reasonable agreement between electrical measurements and modelling results is generally found for the gap voltages and discharge currents. Remaining differences between the measured and calculated electrical energy dissipated in the plasma per period are discussed.
Multiscale Approach to Shock to Detonation Transition in Energetic Materials
Authors: Jackson Thomas L. , Zhang Ju , Short Mark
Published: November 2019

In this work we present a multiscale approach for coupling the dynamics of void collapse at the microscale to simulations at the mesoscale. We solve the reactive Euler equations, with the energy equation augmented by a power deposition term. The reaction rate at the mesoscale is modelled using a pressure‐dependent power law. The deposition term is based on previous simulations of void collapse, modelled at the mesoscale as hot‐spots. The equation of state was previously calibrated for PBX 9501. The run‐to‐detonation distance is calculated as part of the numerical solution procedure. Results for 1‐D, 2‐D homogeneous, and 2‐D heterogeneous medium are presented, and show good agreement to experimental data.
Visualizing biomolecular electrostatics in virtual reality with UnityMol‐APBS
Authors: Laureanti Joseph , Brandi Juan , Offor Elvis , Engel David , Rallo Robert , Ginovska Bojana , Martinez Xavier , Baaden Marc , Baker Nathan A.
Published: November 2019

Virtual reality is a powerful tool with the ability to immerse a user within a completely external environment. This immersion is particularly useful when visualizing and analyzing interactions between small organic molecules, molecular inorganic complexes, and biomolecular systems such as redox proteins and enzymes. A common tool used in the biomedical community to analyze such interactions is the Adaptive Poisson‐Boltzmann Solver (APBS) software, which was developed to solve the equations of continuum electrostatics for large biomolecular assemblages. Numerous applications exist for using APBS in the biomedical community including analysis of protein ligand interactions and APBS has enjoyed widespread adoption throughout the biomedical community. Currently, typical use of the full APBS toolset is completed via the command line followed by visualization using a variety of two‐dimensional external molecular visualization software. This process has inherent limitations: visualization of three‐dimensional objects using a two‐dimensional interface masks important information within the depth component. Herein, we have developed a single application, UnityMol‐APBS, that provides a dual experience where users can utilize the full range of the APBS toolset, without the use of a command line interface, by use of a simple graphical user interface (GUI) for either a standard desktop or immersive virtual reality experience.