bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The high‐impact 2007 hot summer over Turkey: atmospheric‐blocking and heat‐wave episodes
Authors: Demirtaş Meral
Published: February 2018

The 2007 summer was extraordinary in the Balkans and Turkey, with the region experiencing a very hot summer in numerous places, setting all‐time maximum temperature records and suffering destructive fires. The heat wave exhibited daily maximum temperature anomalies in excess of 14 °C in some cities. These high‐temperature anomalies can be related to a number of concurrent atmospheric and physical factors that induce persistent anticyclones, sea‐surface temperature anomalies, reduced precipitation and depleted soil moisture. Prominent atmospheric factors conducive to heat‐wave events can serve as a dynamic fingerprint and yield insight into their most important triggering and driving mechanisms. The prolonged atmospheric‐blocking high meandering over the central Mediterranean orchestrated the atmospheric circulation and led to the advection of warm air from North Africa to the Balkans and Turkey. The associated large‐scale subsidence and clear‐sky conditions resulted in temperatures surpassing 40 °C at many places. Atmospheric and physical conditions contributed positively to the very high temperatures and led to two major heat‐wave episodes in June and July. Atmospheric‐blocking analysis revealed that two blocking episodes accompanied these heat waves. Results from this analysis indicate that the atmospheric blocking was likely responsible for establishing and maintaining the hot‐weather conditions. The summer of 2007 may be considered as a strong indicator of what Turkish summers may become in future.
In silico analysis of structural modifications in and around the integrin αIIb genu caused by ITGA2B variants in human platelets with emphasis on Glanzmann thrombasthenia
Authors: Pillois Xavier , Peters Pierre , Segers Karin , Nurden Alan T.
Published: February 2018

Background

Studies on the inherited bleeding disorder, Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT), have helped define the role of the αIIbβ3 integrin in platelet aggregation. Stable bent αIIbβ3 undergoes conformation changes on activation allowing fibrinogen binding and its taking an extended form. The αIIb genu assures the fulcrum of the bent state. Our goal was to determine how structural changes induced by missense mutations in the αIIb genu define GT phenotype.

Methods

Sanger sequencing of ITGA2B and ITGB3 in the index case followed by in silico modeling of all known GT‐causing missense mutations extending from the lower part of the β‐propeller, and through the thigh and upper calf‐1 domains.

Results

A homozygous c.1772A>C transversion in exon 18 of ITGA2B coding for a p.Asp591Ala substitution in an interconnecting loop of the lower thigh domain of αIIb in a patient with platelets lacking αIIbβ3 led us to extend our in silico modeling to all 16 published disease‐causing missense variants potentially affecting the αIIb genu. Modifications of structuring H‐bonding were the major cause in the thigh domain although one mutation gave mRNA decay. In contrast, short‐range changes induced in calf‐1 appeared minor suggesting long‐range effects. All result in severe to total loss of αIIbβ3 in platelets. The absence of mutations within a key Ca2+‐binding loop in the genu led us to scan public databases; three potential single allele variants giving major structural changes were identiffied suggesting that this key region is not protected from genetic variation.

Conclusions

It appears that the αIIb genu is the object of stringent quality control to prevent platelets from circulating with activated and extended integrin.
Texture analysis of cardiac cine magnetic resonance imaging to detect nonviable segments in patients with chronic myocardial infarction
Authors: Larroza Andrés , López‐Lereu María P. , Monmeneu José V. , Gavara Jose , Chorro Francisco J. , Bodí Vicente , Moratal David
Published: February 2018

Purpose

To investigate the ability of texture analysis to differentiate between infarcted nonviable, viable, and remote segments on cardiac cine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

This retrospective study included 50 patients suffering chronic myocardial infarction. The data were randomly split into training (30 patients) and testing (20 patients) sets. The left ventricular myocardium was segmented according to the 17‐segment model in both cine and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) MRI. Infarcted myocardium regions were identified on LGE in short‐axis views. Nonviable segments were identified as those showing LGE ≥ 50%, and viable segments those showing 0 < LGE < 50% transmural extension. Features derived from five texture analysis methods were extracted from the segments on cine images. A support vector machine (SVM) classifier was trained with different combination of texture features to obtain a model that provided optimal classification performance.

Results

The best classification on testing set was achieved with local binary patterns features using a 2D + t approach, in which the features are computed by including information of the time dimension available in cine sequences. The best overall area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were: 0.849, sensitivity of 92% to detect nonviable segments, 72% to detect viable segments, and 85% to detect remote segments.

Conclusion

Nonviable segments can be detected on cine MRI using texture analysis and this may be used as hypothesis for future research aiming to detect the infarcted myocardium by means of a gadolinium‐free approach.
Augmented Lagrangian and Galerkin least‐squares methods for membrane contact
Authors: Burman Erik , Hansbo Peter , Larson Mats G.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we propose a stabilized finite element method for the numerical solution of contact between a small deformation elastic membrane and a rigid obstacle. We limit ourselves to friction‐free contact, but the formulation is readily extendable to more complex situations.
A 3‐node C0 triangular element for the modified couple stress theory based on the smoothed finite element method
Authors: Choi J. H. , Lee B. C.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, a 3‐node C0 triangular element for the modified couple stress theory is proposed. Unlike the classical continuum theory, the second‐order derivative of displacement is included in the weak form of the equilibrium equations. Thus, the first‐order derivative of displacement, such as the rotation, should be approximated by a continuous function. In the proposed element, the derivative of the displacement is defined at a node using the node‐based smoothed finite element method. The derivative fields, continuous between elements and linear in an element, are approximated with the shape functions in element. Both the displacement field and the derivative field of displacement are expressed in terms of the displacement degree of freedom only. The element stiffness matrix is calculated using the newly defined derivative field. The performance of the proposed element is evaluated through various numerical examples.
Pain self‐management plus nurse‐led support in young adults with irritable bowel syndrome: Study protocol for a pilot randomized control trial
Authors: Cong Xiaomei , Ramesh Divya , Perry Mallory , Xu Wanli , Bernier Katherine M. , Young Erin E. , Walsh Stephen , Starkweather Angela
Published: February 2018

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gut disorder that typically manifests in early adult years. IBS patients report that pain is the most distressing symptom with the greatest impact on quality of life. Pain‐sensitivity genes and the gut microbiome may influence severity of symptoms as well as response to self‐management (SM) interventions. Based on current understanding of the science of SM, pain neurophysiology, and the gut‐brain axis, our team developed a pain SM intervention to be added to evidence‐based self‐management instruction to increase the individual's SM knowledge and skills (self‐efficacy, self‐regulation, and goal‐setting). The purpose of this randomized controlled longitudinal pilot study is to examine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the IBS‐pain SM intervention on IBS‐pain SM behaviors and related health outcomes. A sample of 80 young adults (age 18–29 years old) will be recruited and randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. Both groups will receive 10 electronic video modules focused on IBS‐pain SM knowledge and skills. The experimental group also will receive nurse‐led one‐on‐one phone consultations to facilitate monitoring and problem‐solving. All participants will be followed over 12 weeks. Primary outcomes will be measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks, including IBS‐pain SM behaviors, quality of life, and well‐being. The influence of pain‐sensitivity genes and the gut microbiome on IBS‐pain SM behaviors and health outcomes also will be assessed.
Investigating properties of poly (ether‐amide)/MWCNT nanocomposite films containing 2,7‐bis(4‐aminophenoxy)naphthalene and isophthalic segments
Authors: Mirsamiei Azizollah , Faghihi Khalil
Published: February 2018

Three nanocomposite films based on aramid (poly (ether‐amide), PEA) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were prepared via solution casting method using 2,7‐bis(4‐aminophenoxy)naphthalene (4) and isophthalic acid (5) containing various amounts of MWCNT (2, 3, 5 wt.%). To comprehensively analyze the properties of the cast films as well as the monomers, different techniques were employed, namely FT‐IR, 1H NMR, X‐ray diffraction, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Also, thermal and tensile properties of PEA (6) and nanocomposite films were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis and mechanical analysis, respectively. The morphology, thermal, and mechanical properties of nanocomposite films approved that MWCNT had well dispersion in the PEA matrix and showed a synergistic effect on improving all of the investigated properties. Based on the thermogravimetric analysis results, employing MWCNT caused to increase in the char yields from 61 (in the neat PEA) to 66 (in the PEA /MWCNT nanocomposite 5 wt.%) under the nitrogen atmosphere. In comparison to the pristine PEA (426°C), the temperature at 10 losses mass % (T10) was increased from 530°C to 576°C, with 2 to 5 wt.% of MWCNT. Mechanical analysis revealed that the tensile strength and initial modulus were improved by incorporating MWCNT into PEA (81.70–93.40 MPa and 2.10–2.22 GPa, respectively). Electrical conductivity of the PEA/MWCNT nanocomposites was displayed maximum value in the 5 wt.%, showing satisfactory value in many application areas. The X‐ray diffraction technique was employed to study the crystalline structure of the prepared nanocomposite films as well as PEA. In addition, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy study demonstrated that the prepared nanocomposites had significant impedance improvement in the presence of MWCNTs.
Safety and efficacy of fetal surgery techniques to close a spina bifida defect in the fetal lamb model: A systematic review
Authors: Joyeux Luc , De Bie Felix , Danzer Enrico , Van Mieghem Tim , Flake Alan W. , Deprest Jan
Published: February 2018

Objective

To determine the safety and efficacy of different neurosurgical techniques for closure of spina bifida (SB) in the fetal lamb model.

Method

Systematic review of studies reporting on fetal lambs undergoing induction and closure of SB compared with non‐operated normal lambs (negative controls) and/or lambs not undergoing closure of the defect (positive controls). Primary outcomes were (1) survival at birth (safety) and/or (2) presence of Somatosensory Evoked Potentials on hind limbs and/or improvement in quantitative histological spinal cord findings and/or reversal of hindbrain herniation (efficacy).

Results

Out of 1311, 36 full‐text articles were eligible. Nineteen were included for quality assessment. Due to high bias, only 2 adequately powered studies were included in the final analysis. An open approach using a 2‐layer closure (muscle flap or acellular‐dermal‐matrix patch plus skin) was the only safe (patch + skin) and effective (both techniques) technique for prenatal closure in this animal model. No comparable level of evidence was identified for other techniques.

Conclusion

The experimental literature on prenatal SB closure underscores the lack of standardization. At present, there is animal experimental evidence that a 2‐layer closure by hysterotomy is safe and effective. This technique is currently clinically used in a subset of patients. As new clinical techniques are introduced, it would seem logic to preclinically validate them against this experimental standard.
Predicting fetoplacental chromosomal mosaicism during non‐invasive prenatal testing
Authors: Brison Nathalie , Neofytou Maria , Dehaspe Luc , Bayindir Baran , Van Den Bogaert Kris , Dardour Leila , Peeters Hilde , Van Esch Hilde , Van Buggenhout Griet , Vogels Annick , de Ravel Thomy , Legius Eric , Devriendt Koen , Vermeesch Joris R.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Non‐invasive prenatal detection of aneuploidies can be achieved with high accuracy through sequencing of cell‐free maternal plasma DNA in the maternal blood plasma. However, false positive and negative non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) results remain. Fetoplacental mosaicism is the main cause for false positive and false negative NIPT. We set out to develop a method to detect placental chromosomal mosaicism via genome‐wide circulating cell‐free maternal plasma DNA screening.

Method

Aneuploidy detection was combined with fetal fraction determination to enable the detection of placental mosaicism. This pipeline was applied to whole genome sequencing data derived from 19 735 plasma samples. Following an abnormal NIPT, test results were validated by conventional invasive prenatal or postnatal genetic testing.

Results

Respectively 3.2% (5/154), 12.8% (5/39), and 13.3% (2/15) of trisomies 21, 18, and 13 were predicted and confirmed to be mosaic. The incidence of other, rare autosomal trisomies was ~0.3% (58/19,735), 45 of which were predicted to be mosaic. Twin pregnancies with discordant fetal genotypes were predicted and confirmed.

Conclusion

This approach permits the non‐invasive detection of fetal autosomal aneuploidies and identifies pregnancies with a high risk of fetoplacental mosaicism. Knowledge about the presence of chromosomal mosaicism in the placenta influences risk estimation, genetic counseling, and improves prenatal management.
Rice phytochelatin synthases OsPCS1 and OsPCS2 make different contributions to cadmium and arsenic tolerance
Authors: Yamazaki Shinichi , Ueda Yosuke , Mukai Aya , Ochiai Kumiko , Matoh Toru
Published: February 2018

Cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As) pollution in paddy soil and their accumulation in rice (Oryza sativa) pose serious threats to human health. Rice internally detoxifies these toxic metal and metalloid to some extent, resulting in their accumulation within the edible parts. However, the mechanisms of Cd and As detoxification in rice have been poorly elucidated. Plants synthesize thiol‐rich metal‐chelating peptides, termed phytochelatins (PCs). We characterized rice PC synthase (PCS) and investigated its contribution to Cd and As tolerance in rice. We identified two PCS homolog genes, OsPCS1 and OsPCS2, in the rice genome. The expression of OsPCS1 was upregulated by As(III) stress in the roots but that of OsPCS2 was not significantly affected. The expression level of OsPCS2 was higher than that of OsPCS1 in the shoots and roots. Recombinant OsPCS1 and OsPCS2 proteins differed in their metal activation. OsPCS1 was more strongly activated by As(III) than by Cd; however, OsPCS2 was more strongly activated by Cd than by As(III). Genetically engineered plants having their OsPCS2 expression silenced via RNA interference (OsPCS2 RNAi) contained less PCs and more glutathione (GSH), a substrate of PC synthesis, than wild‐type plants, although there was no significant difference in OsPCS1 RNAi plants. OsPCS2 RNAi plants were sensitive to As(III) stress, but Cd tolerance was little affected. On the other hand, treatment with buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of GSH biosynthesis, significantly decreased Cd and As tolerance of rice seedlings. These findings indicate that OsPCS2 is a major isozyme controlling PC synthesis, and that PCs are important for As tolerance in rice. However, PC synthesis may make a smaller contribution to Cd tolerance in rice, and GSH plays crucial roles, not only as a substrate of PC synthesis.
A randomized dose‐response trial of aerobic exercise and health‐related quality of life in colon cancer survivors
Authors: Brown Justin C. , Damjanov Nevena , Courneya Kerry S. , Troxel Andrea B. , Zemel Babette S. , Rickels Michael R. , Ky Bonnie , Rhim Andrew D. , Rustgi Anil K. , Schmitz Kathryn H.
Published: February 2018

Objective

To examine the dose‐response effects of aerobic exercise on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) among colon cancer survivors.

Methods

Thirty‐nine stage I to III colon cancer survivors were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: usual‐care control, 150 min·wk−1 of aerobic exercise (low‐dose) and 300 min·wk−1 of aerobic exercise (high‐dose) for 6 months. HRQoL outcomes included the Short Form (SF)‐36 physical and mental component summary, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Colorectal, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory, Fatigue Symptom Inventory, and North Central Cancer Treatment Group bowel function questionnaire, assessed at baseline and post intervention. The primary hypothesis was that exercise would improve HRQoL outcomes in a dose‐response fashion, such that high‐dose aerobic exercise would yield the largest improvements in HRQoL outcomes.

Results

Over 6 months, the low‐dose group completed 141 ± 10 min·wk−1 of aerobic exercise, and the high‐dose group completed 247 ± 11 min·wk−1 of aerobic exercise. Over 6 months, exercise improved the physical component summary score of the SF‐36 (Ptrend = 0.002), the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Colorectal (Ptrend = 0.025), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (Ptrend = 0.049), and the Fatigue Symptom Inventory (Ptrend = 0.045) in a dose‐response fashion. Between‐group standardized mean difference effects sizes for the above‐described findings were small to moderate in magnitude (0.35–0.75). No dose‐response effects were observed for the mental component summary score of the SF‐36, the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory, or bowel function.

Conclusion

Higher doses of aerobic exercise, up to 300 min·wk−1, improve multiple HRQoL outcomes among stage I to III colon cancer survivors. These findings provide evidence that aerobic exercise may provide multiple health benefits for colon cancer survivors.
Walls or Bridges: “No Gobbledygook”: The International Psycho‐Oncology Society 2017 Sutherland Award Lecture
Authors: Loscalzo Matthew J.
Published: February 2018

Illness, health, and wellness happen in social contexts. The present political environment is highly divisive and plays to the most primitive fears of people. Never have the stakes been so high. History is replete with putative leaders who create walls that separate people in ways that inevitably leads to dehumanization, suffering, and eventually violence. Timely and openly shared psychosocial insights by experts in mental health into the evil consequences of “wall builders” are essential to the physical, mental, and spiritual health of individuals and nations. For health care professionals (in particular) to ignore the dangers posed by the ill equipped self‐serving leaders who now dominate the news and exploit the dark psyche of the world stage would be at the very least unethical and at worst collusion in repeating the sins of the past. This article first recognizes the impact of leaders who, at great personal costs, have built bridges (with relentless compassion and courage) where only chasms existed before. Although international politics may seem like a universe away, in which people may (erroneously) feel powerless to influence change, our home health care settings can be dramatically improved and humanized by the application of universally accepted humanistic values. Health care, as it is practiced today, is an anachronism at multiple levels. Supportive care in general and psychosocial values specifically offer a more inclusive and realistic alternative. Based on an inclusive staff leadership model, a strategic, hands‐on, practical, and compassionate approach to creating and implementing supportive care programs of excellence is described. Finally, potentially fruitful areas in which supportive care and psychosocial values can provide leadership as bridges to more accessible, affordable, and humanistic care are provided for contemplation.
Protein Self‐Assembly Driven by De Novo Coiled Coils and Constructing Ag Nanoparticle‐Protein Assembly Composite with High Catalytic Activity
Authors: Qiao Shanpeng , Wang Ruidi , Yan Tengfei , Li Xiumei , Zhao Linlu , Zhang Xin , Fan Xiaotong , Wang Tingting , Liu Yao , Hou Chunxi , Luo Quan , Xu Jiayu , Liu Junqiu
Published: February 2018

Construction of protein self‐assembly has drawn more and more attention for understanding the natural wisdom and producing functional biomaterial. Current efforts focus on the novel driving force, dynamic control, and functionalization. In this study, protein assembly driven by de novo coiled coils is reported. By precisely designing coiled coil sequence, dimeric antiparallel coiled coils are successfully constructed and used as a linker to drive helical protein nanostructures. Furthermore, Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are subsequently biomineralized, endowing the protein assembly ability of p‐nitrophenol hydrogenation. It is noteworthy that the Ag NPs‐protein assembly composite presents a 4.19 times higher activity than traditional hydrothermal synthesized Ag NPs because of the higher affinity with substrates. The composite also demonstrates good water stability and recyclability. This article provides a manipulative strategy to drive protein assembling and reveals the Ag‐protein assembly composite a potential biomaterial in the future.
Protein–protein interactions controlling interfacial aggregation of rhIL‐1ra are not described by simple colloid models
Authors: Sorret Lea L. , DeWinter Madison A. , Schwartz Daniel K. , Randolph Theodore W.
Published: February 2018

We investigated the effects of protein–protein interaction strength on interfacial viscoelastic properties and aggregation of recombinant human interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (rhIL‐1ra) at silicone oil–water interfaces. Osmotic second virial coefficients determined by static light scattering were used to quantify protein–protein interactions in bulk solution. Attractive protein–protein interactions dominated at low ionic strengths and their magnitude decreased with increasing ionic strength, in contrast to repulsive interactions that would be expected based on uniformly charged sphere models. Interfacial shear rheometry was used to characterize rhIL‐1ra interfacial layers. More attractive protein–protein interactions in bulk solution correlated with stronger interfacial gels. Thioflavin‐T fluorescence measurements indicated that the intermolecular β‐sheet content of rhIL‐1ra incubated in the presence of silicone oil–water interfaces correlated with gel strength. Siliconized syringes were used to probe the effects of mechanical perturbation of the interfacial gel layers. When rhIL‐1ra solutions in siliconized glass syringes were subjected to end‐over‐end rotation, monomeric rhIL‐1ra was lost from solution, and particles containing aggregated protein were released into the bulk aqueous phase. The loss of monomeric rhIL‐1ra in response to mechanical perturbation was highest under the conditions where the strongest gels were observed. Aggregation of rhIL‐1ra was strictly interface‐induced and growth of aggregates in the bulk solution was not observed, even in the presence of particles released from silicone oil–water interfaces.
Inherently Safer Automation
Authors: Summers Angela
Published: February 2018

Inherently safer design and functionally safe design go hand‐in‐hand in ensuring safe operation. As processes go from conceptual to existing installations, the opportunities to apply the inherently safer strategies to the process design become constrained by cost and practicality. A wider perspective shows that the inherently safer strategies can be used to create instrumented systems that have less potential for dangerous failure, whether the failure occurs due to safeguard design, to a support system disruption or to human error. One might argue that the application of these strategies to automation can only make a process safer, rather than inherently safer. However, when such strategies are applied systematically across the site, the resulting design and management practices become part of “the way things are done” and result in an inherently safer process operation.

This article discusses the cost and sustainability of different instrumented safeguard options to provide a broader perspective on why a design team might choose one layer over another when the risk reduction seems similar. Initial choice is often driven by considerations of capital and operating cost, since these factors weigh heavily in determining whether a project is funded.

System complexity must also be considered because long‐term sustainability and reliability is dependent on humans not introducing errors into the system. Finally, inherently safer terminology is defined from an automation perspective and numerous examples are given on how each strategy can be applied to automation. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Process Saf Prog 37:31–36, 2018
Isosamidin, an extract of Peucedanum japonicum, inhibits phenylephrine‐mediated contractions of the human prostate in vitro
Authors: Suzuki Takahisa , Otsuka Atsushi , Ito Yoshihiko , Yamada Shizuo , Miyake Hideaki , Ozono Seiichiro
Published: February 2018

Isosamidin is a pharmacologically active compound extracted from Peucedanum japonicum which is used as a health food in East Asia. Our preliminary animal data suggested that isosamidin may have sufficient potency to treat patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia or overactive bladder. However, the efficacy of isosamidin in humans is unknown. Here, we examined whether isosamidin inhibits agonist‐stimulated contractions in isolated human bladder and prostate tissue strips in vitro. Human bladder and prostate strips obtained from 9 to 10 male patients, respectively, were suspended in organ baths. After administration of isosamidin (10, 30, and 100 μM), concentration–response curves to agonists (acetylcholine or phenylephrine) were constructed by cumulatively increasing agonist concentration. Isosamidin inhibited phenylephrine‐stimulated contractions of isolated human prostate tissue strips in a concentration‐dependent manner, with significant differences observed between control and 100 μM isosamidin. In contrast, isosamidin had no effect on acetylcholine‐stimulated contractions of isolated human bladder tissue strips. Isosamidin may have pharmacological potency in the treatment of male patients with lower urinary tract symptoms suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Clinical studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of isosamidin in humans.
Otolith chemistry as a fisheries management tool after flooding: The case of Missouri River gizzard shad
Authors: Radigan W.J. , Carlson A.K. , Fincel M.J. , Graeb B.D.S.
Published: February 2018

Reduced river–floodplain connectivity can decrease fisheries production and cause ecological and socioeconomic consequences. In 2011, the largest flood on record in the Missouri River since 1898 nearly eliminated connectivity between an embayment (Hipple Lake) and Lake Sharpe, impeding movement of walleye (Sander vitreus) and a forage fish, gizzard shad (Dorosoma cepedianum). Thus, we used otolith chemistry to quantify Hipple Lake's natal contribution to Lake Sharpe's gizzard shad population and forecast effects of connectivity loss on the reservoir's socioeconomically important walleye fishery. Fish were classified to natal habitats with 79–89% accuracy, with most gizzard shad (64%) hatching in floodplain habitats (i.e., embayments, tributaries, canals, and stilling basins). Hipple Lake contributed 12% of gizzard shad to Lake Sharpe, more than a tributary (4%) and embayment (0%) but less than a canal (27%) and stilling basin (21%). Hipple Lake (178 acres) covers 0.31% of Lake Sharpe (56,884 acres), so its natal contribution is 38 times what would be expected if contribution was linearly related to area. Sediment and water management to maintain connectivity between Lake Sharpe and Hipple Lake and other floodplain habitats is important for continued gizzard shad production and prey supply for the walleye fishery. Otolith chemistry facilitates assessment of gizzard shad natal contributions in different habitats, serving as a fisheries management tool to inform floodplain habitat protection and rehabilitation after floods.
Optimizing performance of BreastScreen Norway using value of information in graphical models
Authors: Lilleborge Marie , Hofvind Solveig , Sebuødegård Sofie , Hauge Ragnar
Published: February 2018

This study proposes a method to optimize the performance of BreastScreen Norway through a stratified recommendation of tests including independent double or single reading of the screening mammograms and additional imaging with or without core needle biopsy. This is carefully evaluated by a value of information analysis. An estimated graphical probabilistic model describing the relationship between a set of risk factors and the corresponding risk of breast cancer is used for this analysis, together with a Bayesian network modeling screening test results conditional on the true (but unknown) breast cancer status of a woman.

This study contributes towards evaluating a possibility of improving the efficiency of the screening program, where all women aged 50 to 69 are invited every second year, regardless of individual risk factors. Our stratified recommendation of tests is dependent on the probability that an asymptomatic woman has developed breast cancer at the time she is invited to a screening.
Evaluation of users' privacy concerns by checking of their WhatsApp status
Authors: Malekhosseini Razieh , Hosseinzadeh Mehdi , Navi Keyvan
Published: February 2018

WhatsApp Messenger is a popular instant messenger among Iranian users. The WhatsApp status feature provides the possibility of posting desired content without restrictions in terms of type with the capability of being managed by users. Status can be considered as a potential place to express users' feelings, opinions, and thoughts. However, special attention should be paid to the privacy of users and the information published in this manner because access to the content of a user's status by unauthorized friends and interpretations of the user's status content may violate his/her privacy. This study investigates the privacy issues associated with information shared through status. The data of this study were gathered via access to the status content of 4000 Iranian users and via telephone interviews conducted with 350 of them. In this study, a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods has been used to analyze the data. This study focuses on the extraction of patterns in users' status content, determination of their polarity, and examination of the factors affecting users' privacy concerns. During the research, 10 general themes were extracted from users' content. The results showed that user privacy concerns influenced the type of theme selected. In addition, the theme selected under different circumstances may include a type of feeling that, in this study, is called polarity. Polarity is affected by the users' privacy concerns. Moreover, the demographic characteristics of users (age and gender) have a significant relationship with the type of theme used and their privacy concerns.
Optimal dynamic and steady‐state performance of switched reluctance motor using water cycle algorithm
Authors: Elhay Enas A. , Elkholy Mahmoud M.
Published: February 2018

Saliency and nonlinear magnetization characteristics of switched reluctance motor (SRM) are causes for its poor performance regarding torque ripples. This paper presents an innovative methodology based on a water cycle algorithm (WCA) for SRM speed control with minimum torque ripples and maximum torque per ampere. WCA enhances the dynamic and steady‐state performance of this motor by optimizing a multiobjective function consisting of three parts. The first part is the integral time absolute error (ITAE) of motor speed with respect to a desired reference speed, the second part is an index for a motor torque smoothness factor (TSF), and the third part is the torque per ampere ratio (TAR). The desired output of WCA is the appropriate gains of the PI speed controller and optimum turn on and off angles of the H‐bridge driving circuit. The results obtained from WCA are used to construct an adaptive controller‐based artificial neural network (ANN) to automatically tune the gains of the PI speed controller and the turn on and off angles. The ANN controller ensures superior steady‐state and dynamic motoring operation over a wide range of speed commands and different loads. The results of WCA are verified by other well‐known meta‐heuristic optimized techniques, such as the Genetic algorithm (GA). The suggested method exhibits an excellent speed transient response in addition to minimum torque ripples and maximum TAR. © 2018 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Breaking One Law to Uphold Another: How Schools Provide Services to English Learners with Disabilities
Authors: Kangas Sara E. N.
Published: February 2018

Inadequate and incomplete educational services for English learners (ELs) with disabilities is a common civil rights issue in the U.S. K–12 education system. Although the federal government has documented that schools are instituting policies of providing only one set of services, such as special education or EL supports, there is little understanding as to why this practice persists in spite of educational laws and policies. Through a qualitative comparative case study that draws on two complementary theories, intersectionality and the language planning and policy onion, this study examines two schools’ service provision practices for ELs with disabilities. The findings reveal that educators’ beliefs about the differential weight of federal special education and EL laws and policies resulted in practices that bar ELs with disabilities from receiving the dual services to which they are legally entitled. The findings underscore the significance of bolstering school leaders’ knowledge of federal language education laws and policies, while also instituting greater protections for ELs with disabilities, to safeguard these learners’ educational opportunities and rights.
Impact of 3D Printing Technology on Comprehension of Surgical Anatomy of Retroperitoneal Tumor
Authors: Yang Tianyou , Lin Shuwen , Tan Tianbao , Yang Jiliang , Pan Jing , Hu Chao , Li Jiahao , Zou Yan
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To investigate the impact of 3D printed model on understanding of surgical anatomy of retroperitoneal tumor.

Materials and methods

Three‐dimensional model was printed, based on multi‐detectors computed tomography (MDCT) of a retroperitoneal tumor. Participants (10 students, 10 residents and 10 surgeons) were asked to identify vasculatures which were important in resection of the tumor, after viewing MDCT images, 3D visualization model and 3D printed model, respectively. Regarding this tumor, left renal vein (LRV), right renal pedicles (RRP) and inferior vena cava (IVC) were chosen as indicators to assess participants’ performances. Identification of vasculatures was evaluated and a score was given (1 point = success; 0 point = failure). The total number and percentage of correct identification were used to measure how these three types of anatomic presentation were able to transfer in terms of anatomical recognition. Recorded data were analyzed both pooling together data from three groups of participants and separately for each group.

Results

In analysis of overall comparison among 3D printing, 3D visualization and MDCT, recognition of all three vasculatures simultaneously was 83.33, 73.33 and 46.67%, respectively (P = 0.007); recognition of LRV was 90, 80 and 63.33% (P = 0.043), respectively; recognition of RRP was 96.67, 83.33 and 73.33% (P = 0.035), respectively; recognition of IVC was 93.33, 90 and 80% (P = 0.366), respectively. In subgroup analysis of performances of three groups of participants, no significant differences regarding anatomic recognition were observed among MDCT, 3D visualization and 3D printed model for each group of participants.

Conclusion

Three‐dimensional printed model improved the understanding of surgical anatomy of retroperitoneal tumor.
Prothrombin Complex Concentrate Reversal of Coagulopathy in Emergency General Surgery Patients
Authors: Younis Moustafa , Ray‐Zack Mohamed , Haddad Nadeem N. , Choudhry Asad , Hernandez Matthew C. , Wise Kevin , Zielinski Martin D.
Published: February 2018

Background

Coagulopathy can delay or complicate surgical diseases that require emergent surgical treatment. Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) provide concentrated coagulation factors which may reverse coagulopathy more quickly than plasma (FFP) alone. We aimed to determine the time to operative intervention in coagulopathic emergency general surgery patients receiving either PCC or FFP. We hypothesize that PCC administration more rapidly normalizes coagulopathy and that the time to operation is diminished compared to FFP alone.

Methods

Single institution retrospective review was performed for coagulopathic EGS patients during 2/1/2008 to 8/1/2016. Patients were divided into three groups (1) PCC alone (2) FFP alone and (3) PCC and FFP. The primary outcome was the duration from clinical decision to operate to the time of incision. Summary and univariate analyses were performed.

Results

Coagulopathic EGS patients (n = 183) received the following blood products: PCC (n = 20, 11%), FFP alone (n = 119, 65%) and PCC/FFP (n = 44, 24%). The mean (± SD) patient age was 71 ± 13 years; 60% were male. The median (IQR) Charlson comorbidity index was similar in all three groups (PCC = 5(4–6), FFP = 5(4–7), PCC/FFP = 5(4–6), p = 0.33). The mean (± SD) dose of PCC administered was similar in the PCC/FFP group and the PCC alone group (2539 ± 1454 units vs. 3232 ± 1684, p =. 09). The mean (±SD) time to incision in the PCC alone group was significantly lower than the FFP alone group (6.0 ± 3.6 vs. 8.8 ± 5.0 h, p = 0.01). The mean time to incision in the PCC + FFP group was also significantly lower than the FFP alone group (7.1 ± 3.6 vs. 8.8 ± 5.0, p = 0.03). The incidence of thromboembolic complications was similar in all three groups.

Conclusions

PCC, alone or in combination with FFP, reduced INR and time to surgery effectively and safely in coagulopathic EGS patients without an apparent increased risk of thromboembolic events, when compared to FFP use alone.

Level of evidence

IV single institutional retrospective review.
Transplantation as disease modifying therapy in adults with inherited metabolic disorders
Authors: Sirrs Sandra , Hannah‐Shmouni Fady , Nantel Stephen , Neuberger James , Yoshida Eric M.
Published: February 2018

Transplantation is an established disease modifying therapy in selected children with certain inherited metabolic diseases (IMDs). Transplantation of hematopoietic stem cells or solid organs can be used to partially correct the underlying metabolic defect, address life threatening disease manifestations (such as neutropenia) or correct organ failure caused by the disease process. Much less information is available on the use of transplantation in adults with IMDs. Transplantation is indicated for the same IMDs in adults as in children. Despite similar disease specific indications, the actual spectrum of diseases for which transplantation is used differs between these age groups and this is partly related to the natural history of disease. There are diseases (such as urea cycle defects and X‐linked adrenoleukodystrophy) for which transplantation is recommended for selected symptomatic patients as a treatment strategy in both adults and children. In those diseases, the frequency with which transplantation is used in adults is lower than in children and this may be related in part to a reduced awareness of transplantation as a treatment strategy amongst adult clinicians as well as limited donor availability and allocation policies which may disadvantage adult patients with IMDs. Risks of transplantation and disease‐specific prognostic factors influencing outcomes also differ with age. We review the use of transplantation as a disease modifying strategy in adults focusing on how this differs from use in children to highlight areas for future research.
Big data techniques in auditing research and practice: Current trends and future opportunities
Authors: Gepp Adrian , Linnenluecke Martina K. , O’Neill Terrence J. , Smith Tom
Published: February 2018

This paper analyses the use of big data techniques in auditing, and finds that the practice is not as widespread as it is in other related fields. We first introduce contemporary big data techniques to promote understanding of their potential application. Next, we review existing research on big data in accounting and finance. In addition to auditing, our analysis shows that existing research extends across three other genealogies: financial distress modelling, financial fraud modelling, and stock market prediction and quantitative modelling. Auditing is lagging behind the other research streams in the use of valuable big data techniques. A possible explanation is that auditors are reluctant to use techniques that are far ahead of those adopted by their clients, but we refute this argument. We call for more research and a greater alignment to practice. We also outline future opportunities for auditing in the context of real-time information and in collaborative platforms and peer-to-peer marketplaces.
Financial Impact of PEVAR Compared with Standard Endovascular Repair in Canadian Hospitals
Authors: Roche-Nagle Graham , Hazel Maureen , Rajan Dheeraj K.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

The percutaneous endovascular abdominal aortic repair (PEVAR) approach is a minimally invasive technique that has demonstrated clinical benefit over traditional surgical cut down associated with standard endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair (EVAR). The objective of our study was to evaluate the budget impact to a Canadian hospital of changing the technique for AAA repair from the EVAR approach to the PEVAR approach.

Methods

We examined the budget impact of replacing the EVAR approach with the PEVAR approach in a Canadian hospital that performs 100 endovascular AAA repairs annually. The model incorporates the costs associated with surgery, length of stay, and postoperative complications occurring within 30 days.

Results

The use of PEVAR in AAA repair is associated with increased access device costs when compared with the EVAR approach (CAD$1000 vs CAD$400). However, AAA repair completed with the PEVAR approach demonstrates reduced operating time (101 minutes vs 133 minutes), length of stay (2.2 days vs 3.5 days), time in the recovery room (174 minutes vs 193 minutes), and postoperative complications (6% vs 30%), which offset the increased device costs. The model establishes that switching to the PEVAR approach in a Canadian hospital performing 100 AAA repairs annually would result in a potential cost avoidance of CAD$245,120.

Conclusions

A change in AAA repair technique from EVAR to PEVAR can be a cost-effective solution for Canadian hospitals.
Ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin) and elevated serum human anti-murine antibody (HAMA)
Authors: Mukherjee Sarbajit , Ayanambakkam Adanma , Ibrahimi Sami , Schmidt Sarah , Charkrabarty Jennifer Holter , Khawandanah Mohamad
Published: February 2018

Ibritumomab Tiuxetan (Zevalin) is an anti CD-20 murine monoclonal antibody linked to the radio-isotope 90-yttrium (90Y) by the chelator Tiuxetan. It is FDA approved for treatment of relapsed low grade or follicular B-cell Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (NHL) or newly diagnosed follicular NHL following an initial response to first-line chemotherapy. Patients may develop Human Anti-Murine Antibodies (HAMA), following exposure to murine antibodies. There is a concern for development of hypersensitivity reactions with Ibritumomab, especially in patients with an elevated HAMA titer. Here we describe a case of a 66 year old male with elevated HAMA titer successfully treated with Zevalin without any hypersensitivity reactions. Existing literature supports our observation that Zevalin can be safely used in most patients with elevated HAMA titers.
Coagulopathic side effect of L-asparaginase on fibrinogen level in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia during induction phase
Authors: Alqasim Alauldeen Mudhafar Zubair , Al-Hadithi Raji Hussein , Al-Khalidi Aseel Nashaat
Published: February 2018

Background:

L-asparaginase is chemotherapeutic agent commonly used in treatment of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Thromboembolic and to a lesser extent bleeding events are serious complications associated with administration of this drug during the induction phase in ALL especially in children resulting from reduced synthesis of proteins such as Antithrombin & fibrinogen.

Objective:

Evaluation of the coagulopathic side effect of L-asparaginase during the induction phase in treatment of ALL in children by measuring fibrinogen levels before & after administration of this drug.

Subjects & method:

An interventional prospective study was performed on 30 newly diagnosed children with ALL, all of them received 9 cycles of L-asparaginase during the induction phase according to UKALL 2003 Protocol. Fibrinogen was measured before & after treatment with L-asparaginase and the results are compared to a control group of 30 healthy children age & sex matched.

Results:

Reduced fibrinogen level is observed in 13 out of 30 patients (43.3%) after treatment with L-asparaginase ranging from 25 to 110 mg/dl with means fibrinogen before & after treatment of 252 ± 16.40 mg/dl & 158.97 ± 17.88 mg/dl respectively (p < .0001).

Conclusion:

Significant reduction in fibrinogen level occurred in childhood ALL patients after treatment with L-asparaginase.