bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perineal reconstruction using an inferior gluteal artery perforator flap after abdominoperineal resection
Authors: Nico Albano Miguel , Louro João Mendes , Brito Iris , Ramos Sara
Published: September 2019

The abdominoperineal resection is a surgical procedure which implies the removal of rectum, anal canal and the creation of a terminal colostomy. The most frequent complications of this type of surgery are haemorrhage, surgical wound complications, persistent perineal sinus and perineal hernia. Intraoperative haemorrhage or contamination and neoadjuvant radiotherapy are risk factors for the development of perineal complications. Perineal wound infection, with subsequent healing delay, has multifactorial aetiology and its incidence can reach up to 66% according to literature. The prevention of these complications requires adequate surgical technique to avoid or minimise the known risk factors. The treatment of a perineal wound complication depends on the clinical and radiographic findings. When there is no wound resolution in 6 months, it is considered a persistent sinus and treatment will probably require a flap. Several options of surgical treatment are available however, there are no randomised studies to determine which one is the best.
Severe bilateral Legg-Calvé-Perthes resolved with pamidronate in combination with casts, physiotherapy and adductor tenotomy: a pictorial essay over 11 years
Authors: Logan Lindsey , Haider Seemab , Brauer Carmen , Miettunen Paivi Maria
Published: September 2019

We describe an 11-year prospective clinical and radiologic course of a 6-year-old boy with bilateral Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, who was treated with intravenous pamidronate (IV-PAM). His baseline radiographs showed grade IV avascular necrosis/Catterall stage IV, and at worst he progressed to lateral pillar/Herring stage C bilaterally. His disease initially was extremely functionally limiting with expected poor outcome with eventual joint replacement. Because IV-PAM stops bone breakdown and allows for ongoing bone formation while revascularisation of bone occurs, we hypothesised that IV-PAM could act as an adjunct to traditional treatment to help heal the femoral heads. Our patient received nine once monthly doses of IV-PAM (1 mg/kg/dose) over 13 months, along with Petrie/broomstick casts and physiotherapy. Remarkably, over time, his femoral heads healed. Now, at 11-year follow-up, he has excellent functional and radiologic outcome with congruence between femoral head and acetabulum, no residual osteonecrosis and minimal loss of femoral head sphericity.
Secondary syphilis presenting with acute unilateral vision loss and a widespread maculopapular rash
Authors: Trevelyan Gareth , Kumar Kartik , Russell Georgina K , Wickremasinghe Melissa
Published: September 2019

Syphilis infection has shown a marked resurgence over the past several years. Ocular involvement is a rare complication of syphilis, occurring in approximately 1% of cases. We present the case of a man in his 50s who presented to hospital with acute unilateral vision loss and a widespread maculopapular rash. Ophthalmological examination showed unilateral optic disc swelling and bilateral vitritis. Intracranial imaging revealed no acute pathology. Initial blood tests were normal apart from mildly elevated inflammatory markers. A comprehensive autoimmune and infection screen revealed positive syphilis serology. The patient was subsequently treated for syphilis with ocular involvement with a course of intravenous benzylpenicillin, resulting in rapid symptomatic improvement. This case highlighted the importance of considering syphilis infection as part of the differential diagnosis for unexplained multisystemic symptoms, such as loss of vision in combination with dermatological involvement.
Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the brain
Authors: Reed Clay T , Duma Narjust , Halfdanarson Thorvardur , Buckner Jan
Published: September 2019

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are malignancies with rare reports of central nervous system development. A 34-year-old woman was found to have a primary NEN of the brain, and she had recurrence with identical histology 10 years later. Extracranial NENs were excluded. She had routine surveillance for the first 5 years with MRIs and positron emission tomography/CTs after the initial presentation which was treated with radiation followed by cisplatin and etoposide. This case highlights the difference in primary NENs versus NEN metastases to the brain, and that longer periods of surveillance are likely required for primary NENs. This is important because the prognosis between primary NENs and metastatic NENs to the brain are vastly different and should not be treated as equal diseases. The patient eventually died of her recurrence secondary to complications of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt placed for treatment of hydrocephalus from the disease.
School-based lifestyle education involving parents for reducing subjective psychosomatic symptoms in Japanese adolescents: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Watanabe Junko , Watanabe Mariko , Yamaoka Kazue , Adachi Misa , Nemoto Asuka , Tango Toshiro
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Severe subjective psychosomatic symptoms (SPS) in adolescents are a major public health concern, and lifestyle modification interventions for reducing SPS are important topics. Recently, we developed a school-based lifestyle education involving parents for reducing SPS of adolescents (SPRAT), an improved version of the programme from our previous study Programme for adolescent of lifestyle education in Kumamoto (PADOK). This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of SPRAT in reducing SPS among adolescents.

Methods and analysis

This is a 6-month, cluster randomised clinical trial with two intervention arms (SPRAT vs usual school education). The study population will be composed of middle school students (aged 12–14 years) with their parents/guardians in Japan. SPRAT is expected to be a more powerful programme than PADOK as it reinforces the role of parent participation. The primary endpoint will be the change from baseline SPS scores to those obtained after 6 months. Between-group differences will be analysed following the intention-to-treat principle. Crude and multivariate adjusted effects will be examined using a general linear mixed-effects model for continuous variables and a logistic regression model for dichotomous variables. The sample size required was determined based on the information needed to detect a difference in the primary outcome with a significance level of 5% and power of 80% under the assumptions of 40 students per cluster (assuming the same sample size for each cluster), an effect size of 0.3 and an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.02. In total, participation by 28 schools (14 schools in each arm) (students: n=1120) will be needed.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the Medical Ethical Committee of Minami Kyushu University in 2017 (number 137). The findings will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

UMIN000026715; Pre-results.
Occupational exposure to wood dust and risk of lung cancer: the ICARE study
Authors: Matrat Mireille , Radoï Loredana , Févotte Joëlle , Guida Florence , Cénée Sylvie , Cyr Diane , Sanchez Marie , Menvielle Gwenn , Schmaus Annie , Marrer Emilie , Luce Danièle , Stücker Isabelle
Published: September 2019

Objectives

In a previous analysis of data from a French population-based case–control study (the Investigation of occupational and environmental CAuses of REspiratory cancers (ICARE) study), ‘having ever worked’ in wood-related occupations was associated with excess lung cancer risk after adjusting for smoking but not for occupational factors. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between lung cancer risk and wood dust exposure after adjusting for occupational exposures.

Methods

Data were obtained from 2276 cases and 2780 controls on smoking habits and lifelong occupational history, using a standardised questionnaire with a job-specific questionnaire for wood dust exposure. Logistic regression models were used to calculate ORs and 95% CIs adjusted for age, area of residence, tobacco smoking, the number of job periods and exposure to silica, asbestos and diesel motor exhaust (DME).

Results

No significant association was found between lung cancer and wood dust exposure after adjustment for smoking, asbestos, silica and DME exposures. The risk of lung cancer was slightly increased among those who were exposed to wood dust more than 10 years, and had over 40 years since the first exposure.

Conclusion

Our findings do not provide a strong support to the hypothesis that wood dust exposure is a risk factor for lung cancer. This study showed the importance of taking into account smoking and occupational coexposures in studies on lung cancer and wood dust exposure. Further studies evaluating the level and frequency of exposure during various tasks in woodwork are needed.
Preliminary findings and outcomes associated with the use of a continuous spinal protocol for labor pain relief following accidental dural puncture
Authors: Izquierdo Marcos , Wang Xiao-Feng , Wagner III Karl , Prada Cristian , Torres Augusto , Bolden Norman
Published: September 2019

Background

Various interventions have shown promise in reducing complications following accidental dural puncture. However, these have yet to be studied as a single, comprehensive protocol. The aim of this study is to compare outcomes associated with the use of a continuous spinal protocol for labor pain relief versus resiting the epidural catheter following accidental dural puncture.

Methods

We reviewed the charts of patients managed via our continuous spinal protocol and compared this group with patients for whom the epidural was resited following accidental dural puncture during the 5-year period prior to implementing our protocol. We assessed incidence of postdural puncture headache, epidural blood patch, frequency of catheter replacement, use of pressors, verbal pain scores at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 hours following catheter placement, infection rates (meningitis/epidural abscess) and mode of delivery.

Results

There were 129 women in the continuous spinal protocol group and 52 in the resited epidural group. The incidence of postdural puncture headache was lower in the continuous spinal group versus the resited epidural group (21.7% vs 67.3%, p<0.001), and the incidence of epidural blood patch was lower in the continuous spinal group versus the resited epidural group (12.4% vs 50.0%, p<0.001). Verbal pain scores were consistently lower in the continuous spinal group compared with the resited epidural group at all time intervals studied.

Conclusion

Patients managed via this continuous spinal protocol had significantly lower incidence of postdural puncture headache and epidural blood patch with more effective labor analgesia following accidental dural puncture.
Differences in price of flavoured and non-flavoured tobacco products sold in the USA, 2011–2016
Authors: Agaku Israel T , Odani Satomi , Armour Brian , Mahoney Margaret , Garrett Bridgette E , Loomis Brett R , Rogers Todd , Gammon Doris G , King Brian A
Published: September 2019

Background

Limited data exist on whether there is differential pricing of flavoured and non-flavoured varieties of the same product type. We assessed price of tobacco products by flavour type.

Methods

Retail scanner data from Nielsen were obtained for October 2011 to January 2016. Universal product codes were used to classify tobacco product (cigarettes, roll-your-own cigarettes (RYO), little cigars and moist snuff) flavours as: menthol, flavoured or non-flavoured. Prices were standardised to a cigarette pack (20 cigarette sticks) or cigarette pack equivalent (CPE). Average prices during 2015 were calculated overall and by flavour designation. Joinpoint regression and average monthly percentage change were used to assess trends.

Results

During October 2011 to January 2016, price trends increased for menthol (the only flavour allowed in cigarettes) and non-flavoured cigarettes; decreased for menthol, flavoured and non-flavoured RYO; increased for flavoured little cigars, but decreased for non-flavoured and menthol little cigars; and increased for menthol and non-flavoured moist snuff, but decreased for flavoured moist snuff. In 2015, average national prices were US$5.52 and US$5.47 for menthol and non-flavoured cigarettes; US$1.89, US$2.51 and US$4.77 for menthol, non-flavoured and flavoured little cigars; US$1.49, US$1.64 and US$1.78 per CPE for menthol, non-flavoured and flavoured moist snuff; and US$0.93, US$1.03 and $1.64 per CPE flavoured, menthol and non-flavoured RYO, respectively.

Conclusion

Trends in the price of tobacco products varied across products and flavour types. Menthol little cigars, moist snuff and RYO were less expensive than non-flavoured varieties. Efforts to make flavoured tobacco products less accessible and less affordable could help reduce tobacco product use.
Prediction of stress responses in goats: comparison of artificial neural network and multiple regression models
Authors: Kannan G. , Gosukonda R. , Mahapatra A.K.
Published: September 2019

This study was conducted to determine if artificial neural networks (ANN) can be used to more accurately predict physiological stress responses in goats compared with statistical regression. Prediction models were developed for plasma cortisol and glucose concentrations, creatine kinase (CK) activity, neutrophil (N) and lymphocyte (L) counts, and N:L ratio as a function of time (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 h; n = 16 goats per time) after a 2.5 h transportation (input 1) and stocking density (25 vs. 50 goats; input 2). However, input 2 was not included in the final models because density did not have a significant effect. The NeuralWorks Predict® software and SAS were used to develop ANN and regression models, respectively. Backpropagation (BP) and Kalman filter (KF) learning rules were used to develop nonparametric models. Correlations between predicted and observed values were better with ANN-BP (R values = 0.87, 0.67, 0.56, 0.27, 0.42, and 0.53) and ANN-KF (R values = 0.84, 0.67, 0.58, 0.27, 0.42, and 0.50) models for cortisol, glucose, CK, N, L, and N:L ratio, respectively, than with regression models (R values =0.85, 0.52, 0.27, 0.13, 0.31, and 0.12). The results showed that the ANN models can predict responses more robustly compared with statistical regression.
Investigation of solid–liquid equilibrium of stevioside in different pure and binary mix solvents at various temperatures
Authors: Asadzadeh Behnaz , Liu Bingbing , Yan Weidong
Published: September 2019

The solubility of stevioside (a natural sweetener) in 12 pure solvents (methanol, 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-buthanol, 2-buthanol, 1-pentanol, 2-pentanol, 2-ethoxyethanol, 2-propoxyethanol, 2-buthoxyethanol, water, and acetone) and in binary mixed solvents (2-ethoxyethanol + water) have been determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method at temperatures ranging from 288.15 to 328.15 K and atmospheric pressure. From the experimental data, it was found that the solubility increased with the rising temperature in all selected solvents. The experimental data for the solubility of stevioside were correlated with Apelblat and non-random two-liquid (NRTL) models. It was found that the Apelblat model has the better quality in fitting the solubility data. Also, thermodynamic functions of dissolution, mixing and transfer process were calculated by the van’t Hoff equation. Furthermore, the crystal habits of stevioside in selected solvents were studied.
Integrated simulation-based dynamic traffic and transit assignment model for large-scale network
Authors: Kamel Islam , Shalaby Amer , Abdulhai Baher
Published: September 2019

Although the traffic and transit assignment processes are intertwined, the interactions between them are usually ignored in practice, especially for large-scale networks. In this paper, we build a simulation-based traffic and transit assignment model that preserves the interactions between the two assignment processes for the large-scale network of the Greater Toronto Area during the morning peak. This traffic assignment model is dynamic, user-equilibrium seeking, and includes surface transit routes. It utilizes the congested travel times, determined by the dynamic traffic assignment, rather than using predefined timetables. Unlike the static transit assignment models, the proposed transit model distinguishes between different intervals within the morning peak by using the accurate demand, transit schedule, and time-based road level-of-service. The traffic and transit assignment models are calibrated against actual field observations. The resulting dynamic model is suitable for testing different demand management strategies that impose dynamic changes on multiple modes simultaneously.
Computed tomography (CT) scanning of internal log attributes prior to sawing increases lumber value in white spruce (Picea glauca) and jack pine (Pinus banksiana)
Authors: Belley Denis , Duchesne Isabelle , Vallerand Steve , Barrette Julie , Beaudoin Michel
Published: September 2019

The increased pressure on timber supply due to a reduced forest land base urges the development of new approaches to fully capture the value of forest products. This paper investigates the effects of knowing the position of knots on lumber volume, value, and grade recoveries in curve sawing of 31 white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss) and 22 jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) trees. Internal knot position was evidenced by X-ray computed tomography (CT) imaging, followed by the application of a knot-detection algorithm allowing log reconstruction for use as input in the Optitek sawing simulation software. Comparisons of the three levels of sawing optimization (sweep up, shape optimized, and knot optimized) revealed that considering internal knots before log sawing (e.g., knot optimized) generated 23% more lumber value for jack pine and 15% more for white spruce compared with the traditional sweep-up sawing strategy. In terms of lumber quality, the knot-optimized strategy produced 38% more pieces of grade No. 2 and better in jack pine and 15% more such pieces in white spruce compared with the sweep-up strategy. These results indicate a great potential to increase manufacturing efficiency and profitability by implementing the CT scanning technology, which should aid in developing a strong bioeconomy based on an optimized use of wood.
Paradoxical gaps in resilient environmental governance
Authors: Nebasifu Ayonghe Akonwi , Atong Ngoindong Majory
Published: September 2019

Over the last few decades, resilience and its related practices have been at the core of responding challenges in the Global South and North. We should, however, be conscious of its gaps for many reasons. First, environmental plans not attuned to local traditions can create cultural conflicts. Second, the politicised nature of international agreements poses unintended consequences as societies find it hard to engage in such agreements. Third, uncertainties about changes in socio-ecological systems reduce people’s adaptive capacity. Without an awareness of these inconsistencies, policymakers risk impeding societies’ adaptation to environmental change. By doing a systematic review of articles from academic and policy publications, this paper explores repercussions for environmental governance, illuminating key concerns in protected areas, climate change policy, and hydropower systems.
Particle motion around generic black holes coupled to non-linear electrodynamics
Authors: Vrba Jaroslav , Abdujabbarov Ahmadjon , Tursunov Arman , Ahmedov Bobomurat , Stuchlík Zdeněk
Published: September 2019

We study spherically symmetric magnetically charged generic black hole solutions of general relativity coupled to non-linear electrodynamics (NED). For characteristic values of the generic spacetime parameters we give the position of horizons in dependence on the charge parameter, demonstrating separation of the black hole and no-horizon solutions, and possibility of existence of solutions containing three horizons. We show that null, weak and strong energy conditions are violated when the outer horizon is approaching the center. We study effective potentials for photons and massive test particles and location of circular photon orbits (CPO) and innermost stable circular orbit (ISCO). We show that the unstable photon orbit can become stable, leading to the possibility of photon capture which affects on silhouette of the central object. The position of ISCO approaches the horizon with increasing charge parameter q and the energy at ISCO decreases with increasing charge parameter. We investigate this phenomenon and summarize for a variety of the generic spacetime parameters the upper estimate on the spin parameter of the Kerr black which can be mimicked by the generic charged black hole solutions.
MODELING ENERGY SECURITY–EXCHANGE RATE LINKAGE: EVIDENCE OF GMM APPROACH
Authors: ANH TU CHUC , RASOULINEZHAD EHSAN , CHI THANH NGO , BA HUYEN LE HOANG , THANH HANH HOANG
Published: September 2019

This study is an empirical attempt to revisit energy insecurity in Vietnam by focusing on the role of the official exchange rate. To this end, we gathered data of the related variables based on the 4A’s theory for energy security over the period 1985–2017, and conducted estimation using GMM estimator. The major results proved that economic growth has a positive impact on official exchange rate. CO2 emissions have negative coefficient which means negative relationship between this variable and the Vietnam’s official exchange rate, while inflation rate has a negative sign suggesting that by increase in price level of commodities in Vietnam’s economy, the domestic product will be more expensive than that before which accelerates commodities import flows that leads to depreciation of Vietnam’s national currency. In addition, we found out that energy intensity has a negative relationship with official exchange rate in Vietnam. Moreover, the results revealed that a 1% increase in gas import has a negative linkage with the Vietnam’s official exchange rate. According to the results, we recommend that Vietnam needs to diversify its gas imports, strengthen local energy production, increasing energy efficiency to have a stronger national currency against U.S. dollar which ensures energy security in this country.
Simplified P-representation operator correspondence applied to quantum systems with generalized Kerr nonlinearity
Authors: Chiangga S. , Pitakwongsaporn S. , Frank Till D.
Published: September 2019

A simplified operator correspondence scheme is derived to address nonlinear quantum systems within the framework of the [Formula: see text]-representation. The simplified method is applied to a general nonlinear quantum oscillator model that has been used in the literature to describe nonlinear quantum optical and matter wave systems. The [Formula: see text]-representation evolution equation for the model is derived for arbitrary nonlinearity exponents. It is shown that in the high temperature case, the [Formula: see text]-representation is sufficient to describe the model and its associated systems such that there is no need to use alternative, mathematically more involved representations. Systems with quadratic and cubic nonlinearities are considered in more detail. Distributions for the energy levels and photon and particle numbers are obtained within the framework of the [Formula: see text]-representation. Moreover, the electrical field oscillation frequency dependency is studied numerically when interpreting the model as model for quantum optical nonlinear oscillators.
Roots of Dehn twists on nonorientable surfaces
Authors: Parlak Anna , Stukow Michał
Published: September 2019

Margalit and Schleimer observed that Dehn twists on orientable surfaces have nontrivial roots. We investigate the problem of roots of a Dehn twist [Formula: see text] about a nonseparating circle [Formula: see text] in the mapping class group [Formula: see text] of a nonorientable surface [Formula: see text] of genus [Formula: see text]. We explore the existence of roots and, following the work of McCullough, Rajeevsarathy and Monden, give a simple arithmetic description of their conjugacy classes. We also study roots of maximal degree and prove that if we fix an odd integer [Formula: see text], then for each sufficiently large [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] has a root of degree [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text]. Moreover, for any possible degree [Formula: see text], we provide explicit expressions for a particular type of roots of Dehn twists about nonseparating circles in [Formula: see text].
Axiomatizability of homological classes of semimodules over semirings
Authors: Katsov Y.
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we characterize semirings over which classes of projective, strongly projective, free, and injective semimodules are axiomatizable. Together with injectivity, we consider the concepts of Baer-injectivity and e-injectivity for semimodules over semirings and illustrate possible relationships between axiomatizabilities of the corresponding injective classes of semimodules, as well as characterize semirings over which the class of e-injective semimodules is axiomatizable.
Graphene-based stochastic sensors for pattern recognition of gastric cancer biomarkers in biological fluids
Authors: Stefan-van Staden Raluca-Ioana , Ilie-Mihai Ruxandra-Maria , Pogacean Florina , Pruneanu Stela
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes pattern recognition of gastric cancer biomarkers CEA, CA19-9 and p53 in whole blood and urine samples using a stochastic sensor based on exfoliated graphene (E-NGr) paste modified with protoporphyrin IX. The proposed sensor covered large ranges of concentrations: 1 × 10[Formula: see text]–1 × 10[Formula: see text]g/mL for CEA, 1 × 10[Formula: see text]–1 × 102 U/mL for CA19-9, and 0.2–5.0 [Formula: see text]g/mL for p53. These ranges allowed the determination of the three biomarkers from early to latest stages of gastric cancer. Validation of the pattern recognition of gastric cancer biomarkers was accomplished using biological samples: whole blood and urine.
G Protein–Coupled Receptor Pharmacology at the Single-Molecule Level
Authors: Calebiro Davide , Grimes Jak
Published: September 2019

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate the effects of numerous hormones and neurotransmitters and are major pharmacological targets. Classical studies with crude cell lysates or membrane preparations have identified the main biochemical steps involved in GPCR signaling. Moreover, recent studies on purified proteins have provided astounding details at the atomic level of the 3-D structures of receptors in multiple conformations, including in complex with G proteins and β-arrestins. However, several fundamental questions remain regarding the highly specific effects and rapid nature of GPCR signaling. Recent developments in single-molecule microscopy are providing important contributions to answering these questions. Overall, single-molecule studies have revealed unexpected levels of complexity, with receptors existing in different conformations and dynamically interacting among themselves, their signaling partners, and structural elements of the plasma membrane to produce highly localized signals in space and time. These findings may provide a new basis to develop innovative strategies to modulate GPCR function for pharmacological purposes.
Quantitative Volumetric Assessment of Ablative Margins in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Predicting Local Tumor Progression Using Nonrigid Registration Software
Authors: Hendriks P. , Noortman W. A. , Baetens T. R. , van Erkel A. R. , van Rijswijk C. S. P. , van der Meer R. W. , Coenraad M. J. , de Geus-Oei L. F. , Slump C. H. , Burgmans M. C.
Published: September 2019

Purpose. After radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), pre- and postinterventional contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) images are usually qualitatively interpreted to determine technical success, by eyeballing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of quantitative assessment, using a nonrigid CT-CT coregistration algorithm. Materials and Methods. 25 patients treated with RFA for HCC between 2009 and 2014 were retrospectively included. Semiautomated coregistration of pre- and posttreatment CECT was performed independently by two radiologists. In scans with a reliable registration, the tumor and ablation area were delineated to identify the side and size of narrowest RFA margin. In addition, qualitative assessment was performed independently by two other radiologists to determine technical success and the anatomical side and size of narrowest margin. Interobserver agreement rates were determined for both methods, and the outcomes were compared with occurrence of local tumor progression (LTP). Results. CT-CT coregistration was technically feasible in 18/25 patients with almost perfect interobserver agreement for quantitative analysis (κ = 0.88). The interobserver agreement for qualitative RFA margin analysis was κ = 0.64. Using quantitative assessment, negative ablative margins were found in 12/18 patients, with LTP occurring in 8 of these patients. In the remaining 6 patients, quantitative analysis demonstrated complete tumor ablation and no LTP occurred. Conclusion. Feasibility of quantitative RFA margin assessment using nonrigid coregistration of pre- and postablation CT is limited, but appears to be a valuable tool in predicting LTP in HCC patients (p=0.013).
Multidisciplinary Treatment Approach for Perforated Internal Root Resorption: Three-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Yıldırım Sinem , Elbay Mesut
Published: September 2019

Internal root resorption (IRR) is described as a resorptive defect of the internal aspect of the root caused by odontoclastic activity associated chiefly with chronic pulp inflammation and trauma. An important variation to consider is the presence of a root perforation, although it is rare. This paper defines the use of CBCT in the diagnosis and combined nonsurgical and surgical multidisciplinary management and follow-up of a maxillary central incisor with perforating IRR in a 9-year-old female patient. At 3-year follow-up, clinical and radiographic findings of the case were satisfactory.
Seismic Control of Tall Buildings Using Distributed Multiple Tuned Mass Dampers
Authors: Radmard Rahmani Hamid , Könke Carsten
Published: September 2019

The vibration control of tall buildings during earthquake excitations is a challenging task because of their complex seismic behavior. This paper investigates the optimum placement and properties of the tuned mass dampers (TMDs) in tall buildings, which are employed to control the vibrations during earthquakes. An algorithm was developed to spend a limited mass either in a single TMD or in multiple TMDs and distribute it optimally over the height of the building. The nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II) method was improved by adding multivariant genetic operators and utilized to simultaneously study the optimum design parameters of the TMDs and the optimum placement. The results showed that, under earthquake excitations with noticeable amplitude in higher modes, distributing TMDs over the height of the building is more effective in mitigating the vibrations compared to the use of a single TMD system. From the optimization, it was observed that the locations of the TMDs were related to the stories corresponding to the maximum modal displacements in the lower modes and the stories corresponding to the maximum modal displacements in the modes which were highly activated by the earthquake excitations. It was also noted that the frequency content of the earthquake has significant influence on the optimum location of the TMDs.
Serum CD95L Level Correlates with Tumor Immune Infiltration and Is a Positive Prognostic Marker for Advanced High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: De La Motte Rouge Thibault , Corné Julien , Cauchois Aurélie , Le Boulch Marie , Poupon Clotilde , Henno Sébastien , Rioux-Leclercq Nathalie , Le Pabic Estelle , Laviolle Bruno , Catros Véronique , Levêque Jean , Fautrel Alain , Le Gallo Matthieu , Legembre Patrick , Lavoué Vincent
Published: September 2019

Soluble CD95L (s-CD95L) is a chemoattractant for certain lymphocyte subpopulations. We examined whether this ligand is a prognostic marker for high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) and whether it is associated with accumulation of immune cells in the tumor. Serum s-CD95L levels in 51 patients with advanced ovarian cancer were tested by ELISA. IHC staining of CD3, CD4, CD8, CD20, CD163, CD31, FoxP3, CCR6, IL-17, Granzyme B, PD-L1, and membrane CD95L was used to assess tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Although the intensity of CD3, CD8, CD4, CD20, and CD163 in tumor tissues remained constant regardless of membrane CD95L expression, tumors in patients with HGSOC with s-CD95L levels ≥516 pg/mL showed increased infiltration by CD3+ T cells (P = 0.001), comprising both cytotoxic CD8+ (P = 0.01) and CD4+ (P = 0.0062) cells including FoxP3+ regulatory T cells (P = 0.0044). Also, the number of tumor-infiltrating CD20+ B cells (P = 0.0094) increased in these patients. Multivariate analyses revealed that low s-CD95L concentrations [<516 pg/mL, HR, 3.54; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.13–11.11), and <1,200 activated CD8+ (Granzyme B+) cells (HR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.16–5.95) were independent poor prognostic factors for recurrence, whereas >6,000 CD3+ cells (HR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.15–0.79) was a good prognostic factor. Thus, low levels of s-CD95L (<516 pg/mL) are correlated with lower numbers of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (CD3+ and CD8+, and also CD4 and FoxP3 T cells) in advanced HGSOC and are a poor prognostic marker.

Implications:

Serum s-CD95L is correlated with a number of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in HGSOC and could be used as a noninvasive marker of tumor immune infiltration to select patients referred for immunotherapy trials that evaluate checkpoint inhibitor treatment.
Identification of Emetine as a Therapeutic Agent for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Siddique Mohammad Abdul Hai , Satoh Kimio , Kurosawa Ryo , Kikuchi Nobuhiro , Elias-Al-Mamun Md. , Omura Junichi , Satoh Taijyu , Nogi Masamichi , Sunamura Shinichiro , Miyata Satoshi , Ueda Hirofumi , Tokuyama Hidetoshi , Shimokawa Hiroaki
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Excessive proliferation and apoptosis resistance are special characteristics of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, the drugs in clinical use for PAH target vascular dilatation, which do not exert adequate effects in patients with advanced PAH. Here, we report a novel therapeutic effect of emetine, a principal alkaloid extracted from the root of ipecac clinically used as an emetic and antiprotozoal drug.

Approach and Results:

We performed stepwise screenings for 5562 compounds from original library. First, we performed high-throughput screening with PASMCs from patients with PAH (PAH-PASMCs) and found 80 compounds that effectively inhibited proliferation. Second, we performed the repeatability and counter assay. Finally, we performed a concentration-dependent assay and found that emetine inhibits PAH-PASMC proliferation. Interestingly, emetine significantly reduced protein levels of HIFs (hypoxia-inducible factors; HIF-1α and HIF-2α) and downstream PDK1 (pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1). Moreover, emetine significantly reduced the protein levels of RhoA (Ras homolog gene family, member A), Rho-kinases (ROCK1 and ROCK2 [rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein kinases 1 and 2]), and their downstream CyPA (cyclophilin A), and Bsg (basigin) in PAH-PASMCs. Consistently, emetine treatment significantly reduced the secretion of cytokines/chemokines and growth factors from PAH-PASMCs. Interestingly, emetine reduced protein levels of BRD4 (bromodomain-containing protein 4) and downstream survivin, both of which are involved in many cellular functions, such as cell cycle, apoptosis, and inflammation. Finally, emetine treatment ameliorated pulmonary hypertension in 2 experimental rat models, accompanied by reduced inflammatory changes in the lungs and recovered right ventricular functions.

Conclusions:

Emetine is an old but novel drug for PAH that reduces excessive proliferation of PAH-PASMCs and improves right ventricular functions.
Selecting and Removing Arbitrators in International Investment Arbitration
Authors: Giorgetti Chiara
Published: September 2019

This book explores and assesses two essential features in investor state dispute resolution (ISDS): the selection and the removal of arbitrators. Both topics have received increasing scrutiny and criticism, that have in turn generated calls for reforms. In its first part, this book explains the selection of arbitrators procedurally and comparatively under the most-often used arbitration rules. It then reviews critically the necessary and desirable qualities for arbitrators’ selection and appointment, and addresses some important and related policy issues, such diversity and repeat appointments. Finally, it discusses the recent calls to review the methodologies used to appoint arbitrators, and specifically the proposal by the European Commission to create a permanent tribunal to resolve international investment disputes, the UNCITRAL Working Group III Reform Process and the rules amendment proposal undertaken by the Secretariat of the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID Secretariat). In its second part, the book addresses the companion and similarly important issue of challenging and removing arbitrators. It does so by reviewing first the provisions that are appplied under a variety of arbitration rules to remove arbitrators who fail to possess the necessary qualities to sit in arbitral proceedings. It then evaluates the reasons for challenge and discusses some important cases that addressed challenges. The book assesses appointments and removals in a multifaceted and comprehensive way, and includes a critical assessment of the reasons and calls for reform of the ISDS system.
Scale Analysis of Moist Thermodynamics in a Simple Model and the Relationship between Moisture Modes and Gravity Waves
Authors: Adames Ángel F. , Kim Daehyun , Clark Spencer K. , Ming Yi , Inoue Kuniaki
Published: September 2019

Observations and theory of convectively coupled equatorial waves suggest that they can be categorized into two distinct groups. Moisture modes are waves whose thermodynamics are governed by moisture fluctuations. The thermodynamics of the gravity wave group, on the other hand, are rooted in buoyancy (temperature) fluctuations. On the basis of scale analysis, it is found that a simple nondimensional parameter—akin to the Rossby number—can explain the processes that lead to the existence of these two groups. This parameter, defined as Nmode, indicates that moisture modes arise when anomalous convection lasts sufficiently long so that dry gravity waves eliminate the temperature anomalies in the convective region, satisfying weak temperature gradient (WTG) balance. This process causes moisture anomalies to dominate the distribution of moist enthalpy (or moist static energy), and hence the evolution of the wave. Conversely, convectively coupled gravity waves arise when anomalous convection eliminates the moisture anomalies more rapidly than dry gravity waves can adjust the troposphere toward WTG balance, causing temperature to govern the moist enthalpy distribution and evolution. Spectral analysis of reanalysis data indicates that slowly propagating waves (cp ~ 3 m s−1) are likely to be moisture modes while fast waves (cp ~ 30 m s−1) exhibit gravity wave behavior, with “mixed moisture–gravity” waves existing in between. While these findings are obtained from a highly idealized framework, it is hypothesized that they can be extended to understand simulations of convectively coupled waves in GCMs and the thermodynamics of more complex phenomena.
Climatology of Low-Level Jets and Their Impact on Rainfall over Southern China during the Early-Summer Rainy Season
Authors: Du Yu , Chen Guixing
Published: September 2019

Low-level jets (LLJs) are a key factor regulating the early-summer rainfall over southern China. Their detailed activities and impact are examined using 21-yr ERA5 and TRMM rainfall data. The LLJs typically consist of boundary layer jets (BLJs) and synoptic-system-related LLJs (SLLJs). The BLJ is usually characterized by a southerly wind maximum at 950 hPa over the northern area of South China Sea, whereas the SLLJ features a southwesterly wind maximum at 850–700 hPa located more north on land. Meanwhile, the BLJ (SLLJ) has a maximum occurrence in April–June (May–July) and at late night (in the early morning), indicating the differences in seasonal and diurnal variations. The two types of LLJs are found to influence the rainfall distribution via terrain effects, synoptic disturbances, and moisture transport. During the BLJ events, rainfall is mainly confined to the south side of the Nanling and Wuyi Mountains and Yun-Gui Plateau (south region), whereas during the SLLJ events rainfall occurs both in the coastal region and to the north of the mountains (north region). The difference is caused by the southerly BLJ that induces strong orographic lifting on the windward side of the mountains, while the elevated SLLJ can pass over the mountains driving an additional upward motion more north. Active synoptic disturbances accompanied by SLLJs are also favorable for the rainfall in the north region. The moisture transportation by LLJs is another important factor regulating rainfall distribution. Rainfall in the south (north) region is mainly attributed to the net moisture flux in the boundary layer (more elevated layers) due to the BLJ (SLLJ).
Haemophagocytic syndrome triggered by acute lymphoblastic leukaemia with t(9;22)(p24; q11.2)
Authors: Chen Huiling , Zeng Pengyun , Zhang Dekui
Published: September 2019

Haemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) is a rare and potentially life-threatening condition that requires early diagnosis and prompt combined treatment. This case report describes a male patient with HPS, presenting as acute liver failure, that underwent a thorough evaluation for the cause of his symptoms. A final diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia was established more than 2 months after the first presenting symptom appeared. Furthermore, the patient had an unusual chromosomal abnormality with a t(9; 22)(p24; q11.2) translocation, but the reciprocal janus kinase 2-breakpoint cluster region (JAK2-BCR) and BCR-JAK2 fusion transcripts were not be amplified.
Changes of Supraspinatus Muscle Volume and Fat Fraction After Successful or Failed Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Wieser Karl , Joshy Jethin , Filli Lukas , Kriechling Philipp , Sutter Reto , Fürnstahl Philipp , Valdivieso Paola , Wyss Sabine , Meyer Dominik C. , Flück Martin , Gerber Christian
Published: September 2019

Background:

Muscle atrophy and fatty infiltration are limiting factors for successful rotator cuff (RC) repair. Quantitative data regarding these hallmarks of degenerative muscle changes after RC repair in humans are scarce. By utilizing a new application of the 6-point Dixon magnetic resonance imaging technology, 3-dimensional volume and fat fraction analysis of the whole RC muscle have become possible.

Purpose:

Quantitative analysis of atrophy and fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus muscle after healed and failed RC tendon-to-bone repair.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Muscle volume and fat fraction were measured preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively in 19 failed and 21 healed arthroscopic supraspinatus tendon repairs, with full muscle volume segmentation and magnetic resonance Dixon sequences.

Results:

In both groups, the muscle volume initially decreased 3 months after RC repair by –3% in intact ( P = .140) and –10% in failed repair ( P = .004) but recovered between 3 and 12 months to 103% ( P = .274) in intact and 92% ( P = .040) in failed repairs when compared with the preoperative volume (difference of change between groups, preoperative to 12 month: P = .013). The supraspinatus muscle’s fat fraction did not significantly change after successful repair (6.5% preoperative, 6.6% after 3 months, and 6.7% after 12 months; all nonsignificant). There was, however, a significant increase from 7.8% to 10.8% at 3 months ( P = .014) and 11.4% at 12 months ( P = .020) after failed repair (difference between groups at 3- and 12-month follow-up: P = .018 and P = .001, respectively).

Conclusion:

After successful arthroscopic repair, RC tendon tear–induced fatty infiltration can be almost stopped, and muscle atrophy can even be slightly reversed. In case of a failed repair, however, these changes are further pronounced during the first 3 postoperative months but seem to stabilize thereafter.
Exponential stabilization of flexural sway vibration of gantry crane via boundary control method
Authors: Entessari Farshid , Najafi Ardekany Ali , Alasty Aria
Published: September 2019

This paper aims to develop a boundary control solution for complicated gantry crane coupled motions. In addition to the large angle sway motion, the crane cable has a flexural transverse vibration. The Hamilton principle has been utilized to derive the governing partial differential equations of motion. The control objectives which are sought include: moving the payload to the desired position; reducing the payload swing with large sway angle; and finally suppressing the cable transverse vibrations in the presence of boundary disturbances simultaneously. These simultaneous boundary control objectives make the problem challenging. The proposed control approach is based on the original nonlinear hybrid partial differential equation–ordinary differential equation model without any simplifications of sway motion nonlinearities, coupling effects, and the effect of gravitational force. Using the Lyapunov method, a boundary control law has been designed which guarantees the exponential stability and uniform boundedness of the closed-loop system. In order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control method, numerical simulation results are provided by applying the finite difference method.
“But the Law Won’t Help Us”: Challenges of Mobilizing Law 348 to Address Violence Against Women in Bolivia
Authors: Rogers Ashley
Published: September 2019

Drawing on findings of an original 12-month ethnographic study, this article presents the challenges that Bolivian women face in accessing a new law that has been designed to protect them, Law 348 to “Guarantee Women a Life Free from Violence.” Data reveal that while the law creates opportunities for the (re)conceptualization of violence, mobilizing the law is fraught with difficulties and a culture of impunity prevails. The challenges of implementation are both nationally and internationally significant as other countries seek to enact similar legal strategies. In Bolivia, this article suggests, civil society organizations and women’s voices are central to the full realization of the law.
Do Preverbal Infants Understand Discrete Facial Expressions of Emotion?
Authors: Ruba Ashley L. , Repacholi Betty M.
Published: September 2019

An ongoing debate in affective science concerns whether certain discrete, “basic” emotions have evolutionarily based signals (facial expressions) that are easily, universally, and (perhaps) innately identified. Studies with preverbal infants (younger than 24 months) have the potential to shed light on this debate. This review summarizes what is known about preverbal infants’ understanding of discrete emotional facial expressions. Overall, while many studies suggest that preverbal infants differentiate positive and negative facial expressions, few studies have tested whether infants understand discrete emotions (e.g., anger vs. disgust). Moreover, results vary greatly based on methodological factors. This review also (a) discusses how language may influence the development of emotion understanding, and (b) proposes a new developmental hypothesis for infants’ discrete emotion understanding.