bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome due to oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy
Authors: Kobayashi Shinichiro , Okudaira Sadayuki , Kobayashi Kazuma , Kanetaka Kengo , Eguchi Susumu
Published: January 2019

Key Clinical Message

Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome during oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy has been shown to be associated with severe steatohepatitis. Gadolinium‐ethoxybenzyl‐diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging may identify various features of hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, even when the lesion cannot be differentiated from sinusoidal obstruction syndrome by other imaging tools.
A comparison of two PLS‐based approaches to structural equation modeling
Authors: Romano Rosaria , Tomic Oliver , Liland Kristian H. , Smilde Age , Næs Tormod
Published: January 2019

This paper presents a new approach to path modeling named SO‐PLS path modeling (SO‐PLS‐PM) and compares it with the more well‐known PLS path modeling (PLS‐PM). The new method is flexible and graphically oriented and allows for handling multidimensional blocks and diagnosing missing paths. In order to allow for a thorough comparison between the two methods, new definitions of total, direct, and indirect effects in terms of explained variances are proposed, along with new methods for graphical representation. The two PLS methods are tested on two well‐known data sets in the PLS‐PM literature from customer satisfaction analysis and descriptive sensory analysis. The findings from the empirical applications serve as a basis for recommendations and guidelines regarding the use of the SO‐PLS‐PM versus PLS‐PM.
A porous fibrous hyperelastic damage model for human periodontal ligament: Application of a microcomputerized tomography finite element model
Authors: Ortún‐Terrazas Javier , Cegoñino José , Santana‐Penín Urbano , Santana‐Mora Urbano , Pérez del Palomar Amaya
Published: January 2019

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a soft biological tissue that connects the tooth with the trabecular bone of the mandible. It plays a key role in load transmission and is primarily responsible for bone resorption and most common periodontal diseases. Although several numerical studies have analysed the biomechanical response of the PDL, most did not consider its porous fibrous structure, and only a few analysed damage to the PDL. This study presents an innovative numerical formulation of a porous fibrous hyperelastic damage material model for the PDL. The model considers two separate softening phenomena: fibre alignment during loading and fibre rupture. The parameters for the material model characterization were fitted using experimental data from the literature. Furthermore, the experimental tests used for characterization were computationally modelled to verify the material parameters. A finite element model of a portion of a human mandible, obtained by microcomputerized tomography, was developed, and the proposed constitutive model was implemented for the PDL. Our results confirm that damage to the PDL may occur mainly because of overpressure of the interstitial fluid, while large forces must be applied to damage the PDL fibrous network. Moreover, this study clarifies some aspects of the relationship between PDL damage and the bone remodelling process.
Cation Redistribution along the Spiral of Ni‐Doped Phyllosilicate Nanoscrolls: Energy Modelling and STEM/EDS Study
Authors: Krasilin Andrei A. , Khrapova Ekaterina K. , Nominé Alexandre , Ghanbaja Jaafar , Belmonte Thierry , Gusarov Victor V.
Published: January 2019

Here, we study the stress‐induced self‐organization of Mg2+ and Ni2+ cations in the crystal structure of multiwalled (Mg1–x,Nix)3Si2O5(OH)4 phyllosilicate nanoscrolls. The phyllosilicate layer strives to compensate size and surface energy difference between the metal oxide and silica sheets by curling. But as soon as the layer grows, the scrolling mechanism becomes a spent force. An energy model proposes secondary compensation of strain: two cations distribute along the nanoscroll spiral in accordance with preferable radii of curvature. To reveal this, we study synthetic (Mg1–x,Nix)3Si2O5(OH)4 nanoscrolls by the scanning transmission electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (STEM/EDS) technique. For a number of scrolls, we have found indeed a change of Ni concentration with increase in distance from the nanoscroll central axis. The concentration gradient, according to our estimates, can reach 50 at.% over 25 nm of the wall thickness.
Conceptualizing the role of disgust in avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder: Implications for the etiology and treatment of selective eating
Authors: Menzel Jessie E. , Reilly Erin E. , Luo Tana J. , Kaye Walter H.
Published: January 2019

Selective eating is a common presenting problem in Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). Understanding the etiology of selective eating will lead to the creation of more effective treatments for this problem. Recent reports have linked disgust sensitivity to picky eating, and the field has yet to conceptualize the role that disgust might play in ARFID. Disgust has long been tied to formation of taste aversions and is considered at its core to be a food‐related emotion. A brief review of the literature on disgust reveals that disgust has a unique psychophysiological profile compared to other emotions, like anxiety, and that disgust is resistant to extinction procedures. If disgust is implicated in the etiology of selective eating, its presence would have a significant impact on treatment approaches. This article provides an overview of the research on disgust and eating, a clinical example of the treatment challenges that disgust may pose, and an overview of the unique clinical features of disgust as they apply to psychopathology. We pose several research questions related to disgust and selective eating and discuss initial hypotheses for pursing this line of inquiry. Finally, we discuss the possible implications of this line of research for treatment.
Habitat differentiation among three Nigeria–Cameroon chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti) populations
Authors: Abwe Ekwoge E. , Morgan Bethan J. , Tchiengue Barthelemy , Kentatchime Fabrice , Doudja Roger , Ketchen Marcel E. , Teguia Eric , Ambahe Ruffin , Venditti Dana M. , Mitchell Matthew W. , Fosso Bernard , Mounga Albert , Fotso Roger C. , Gonder Mary Katherine
Published: January 2019

Ecological niche models (ENMs) are often used to predict species distribution patterns from datasets that describe abiotic and biotic factors at coarse spatial scales. Ground‐truthing ENMs provide important information about how these factors relate to species‐specific requirements at a scale that is biologically relevant for the species. Chimpanzees are territorial and have a predominantly frugivorous diet. The spatial and temporal variation in fruit availability for different chimpanzee populations is thus crucial, but rarely depicted in ENMs. The genetic and geographic distinction within Nigeria–Cameroon chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti) populations represents a unique opportunity to understand fine scale species‐relevant ecological variation in relation to ENMs. In Cameroon, P. t. ellioti is composed of two genetically distinct populations that occupy different niches: rainforests in western Cameroon and forest–woodland–savanna mosaic (ecotone) in central Cameroon. We investigated habitat variation at three representative sites using chimpanzee‐relevant environmental variables, including fruit availability, to assess how these variables distinguish these niches from one another. Contrary to the assumption of most ENM studies that intact forest is essential for the survival of chimpanzees, we hypothesized that the ecotone and human‐modified habitats in Cameroon have sufficient resources to sustain large chimpanzee populations. Rainfall, and the diversity, density, and size of trees were higher at the rainforest. The ecotone had a higher density of terrestrial herbs and lianas. Fruit availability was higher at Ganga (ecotone) than at Bekob and Njuma. Seasonal variation in fruit availability was highest at Ganga, and periods of fruit scarcity were longer than at the rainforest sites. Introduced and secondary forest species linked with anthropogenic modification were common at Bekob, which reduced seasonality in fruit availability. Our findings highlight the value of incorporating fine scale species‐relevant ecological data to create more realistic models, which have implications for local conservation planning efforts.
Organic Templates for Inorganic Nanocrystal Growth
Authors: Li Bo , You Ning , Liang Yachao , Zhang Qi , Zhang Wenjie , Chen Meng , Pang Xinchang
Published: January 2019

Nanocrystals provide a variety of size and shape‐dependent properties with applications in a wide range of areas, gaining much attention in the past few years. However, due to the nature of the kinetic nanocrystal growth, the procedures often require strict experimental conditions and the shape and size of nanocrystals are difficult to control. In such context, organic templates, which are artificially modified or synthesized, can direct inorganic nanocrystal nucleation and growth to achieve desired shape, size and ultimately properties. In this review article, two general categories of organic templates used for making inorganic nanomaterials are discussed: biotemplates (e.g., peptide, lipid, DNA, and capsid) and block copolymer templates (e.g., block copolymer micelles, star‐like block copolymer unimicelles). The goal of this review is to bridge these gaps and help foster a greater awareness of the range and applicability of different organic templating techniques within the field of nanotechnology.
Transforming urban water governance through social (triple‐loop) learning
Authors: Johannessen Åse , Gerger Swartling Åsa , Wamsler Christine , Andersson Kim , Arran Julian Timothy , Hernández Vivas Dayana Indira , Stenström Thor Axel
Published: January 2019

The sustainable development of cities is threatened by a worldwide water crisis. Improved social learning is urgently needed to transform urban water governance and make it more integrated and adaptive. However, empirical studies remain few and fragmented. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to analyse how social learning has supported or inhibited sustainable transformations in urban water governance. On the basis of multiple case studies conducted in urban, flood‐prone areas in Colombia, the Philippines, South Africa, India, and Sweden, we study learning processes related to different aspects of water management and governance. Our results show that transformations in water governance are often triggered by crises, whereas other potentials for transformation are not tapped into. Furthermore, learning is often inhibited by “lock‐ins” created by powerful actors. We conclude that there is a need for more proactive design of governance structures for triple‐loop learning that take into account the identified barriers and supporting principles.
Eye‐movement behaviours when viewing real‐world pain‐related images
Authors: Schoth Daniel E. , Wu Jun , Zhang Jin , Guo Xiaoying , Liossi Christina
Published: January 2019

Background

Pain‐related cues are evolutionarily primed to capture attention, although evidence of attentional biases towards pain‐related information is mixed in healthy individuals. The present study explores whether healthy individuals show significantly different eye‐movement behaviours when viewing real‐world pain‐related scenes compared to neutral scenes. The effect of manipulating via written information the threat value of the pain‐related scenes on eye‐movement behaviours was also assessed.

Methods

Participants were randomized to threatening (n = 28) and non‐threatening (n = 27) information conditions. All completed a free‐viewing task with real‐world pain‐related and neutral images while their eye movements were recorded.

Results

Participants made significantly fewer fixations of significantly longer duration when viewing pain‐related images compared to neutral images. No significant differences were found between threatening and non‐threatening information groups in their pattern of eye movements.

Conclusions

This study shows that healthy individuals demonstrate attentional biases to pain‐related real‐world complex images compared to neutral images. Future research is needed to establish the implications of these biases, particularly in the context of acute pain, on the onset and/or subsequent maintenance of chronic pain conditions.

Significance

Healthy individuals show different eye‐movement behaviours when viewing pain‐related scenes than neutral scenes, supporting evolutionary accounts of pain. Implications for the onset and/or maintenance of chronic pain need to be explored.
Cationic Dye Modified Sawdust as Electrode Modifier for Electrochemical Detection of Anions
Authors: Ngana Beaufils Ngatchou , Dedzo Gustave Kenne , Nanseu‐Njiki Charles Peguy , Ngameni Emmanuel
Published: January 2019

Because of its chemical properties, sawdust displays poor anionic exchange capacity. Here we demonstrate that sawdust modification with methylene blue (MB) dye represents an interesting and facile alternative to render this natural biomaterial capable to accumulate anionic species. MB adsorption onto sawdust was monitored by cyclic voltammetry and experimental parameters carefully optimized. Under the ideal experimental conditions (composition of accumulation and desorption solution, accumulation and desorption time and the nature of the electrolytic solution), the adsorbed MB showed poor mobility, which results in the absence of the characteristic electrochemical signal of MB. The ability of the material to accumulate anionic species was thus evaluated using Fe(CN)63− as a model anions. The slow Fe(CN)63−/4− system recorded onto the electrode modified by pristine sawdust (P/SFE) become fast and reversible after immobilization of MB onto P/SFE (MB/SFE). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirms this result through the spectacular decrease of charge transfer resistance after MB adsorption (from 83 kΩ on P/SFE to 637 Ω on MB/SFE). MB/SFE was applied to the electroanalysis of nitrites and a sensitivity of 7.4 μA mM−1 was obtained. Although this sensitivity was less important compared to that obtained on glassy carbon electrode (9.4 μA mM−1), the dye modified electrode displays by far the best reproducibility even at higher nitrite concentration.
Important considerations in the derivation of background at sediment sites
Authors: Geiselbrecht Allison , Rouhani Shahrokh , Thorbjornsen Karen , Blue Douglas , Nadeau Steven , Gardner-Brown Tessa , Brown Steven
Published: January 2019

In the United States, there is an absence of federal guidance related to deriving and applying background concentrations at contaminated sediment sites. This absence has resulted in significant variability, uncertainty, and disagreement regarding how representative background concentrations of chemicals of concern should be derived for these sites. The present article discusses important considerations in the derivation of representative background concentrations to be used in the evaluation of contaminated sediment sites. Specifically, a thorough understanding of a site is critical to selecting the background reference areas from which representative background concentrations can be derived, representative background concentrations should account for contributions from those background chemical inputs (natural and anthropogenic sources) that will continue affecting the site even after remediation, perceived outliers should not be eliminated from the background data set just because they are the highest or lowest values, and geochemical evaluation of trace metals is a useful tool for deriving representative background concentrations. On a site-specific level, representative background concentrations are critical for putting site-related risk into context, developing a cost-effective and technically feasible remedial approach, understanding the potential for recontamination, and ensuring long-term remedy success. In a broader context, clear guidance from the United State Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) for deriving and applying background concentrations for contaminated sediment sites would help promote national consistency in site assessment and remedy decision making. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2019;00:000–000. © 2019 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC)
The potassium channel KCa3.1 promotes cell proliferation by activating SKP2 and metastasis through the EMT pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Du Yehui , Song Wenfeng , Chen Jian , Chen Hao , Xuan Zefeng , Zhao Long , Chen Jun , Jin Cheng , Zhou Mengqiao , Tuo Biguang , Zhao Yongchao , Zheng Shusen , Song Penghong
Published: January 2019

The intermediate conductance calcium‐activated potassium channel (KCa3.1) plays an important role in maintaining intracellular calcium homeostasis and is involved in the tumorigenesis of many human cancers. However, it is unknown whether KCa3.1 plays a role in the genesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide with a very poor prognosis. In our study, we found that the expression of KCa3.1 was significantly elevated in poorly differentiated HCC tissues compared to adjacent noncancerous tissues. In vitro and in vivo experiments showed that KCa3.1 could promote cell proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC. Mechanistically, KCa3.1 promoted cell cycle progression and migration and invasion of HCC cells by activating S‐phase protein kinase 2 (SKP2) to trigger the degradation of p21 and p27 and targeting Reelin (RELN) to induce epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), respectively. Taken together, our results demonstrate that KCa3.1 plays an important role in the genesis and progression of HCC, implying that it might be a promising therapeutic target in HCC.
Preoperative simulation by volume rendering image and intraoperative navigation by ultrasound for posterior urethroplasty: A report of initial three cases
Authors: Kanematsu Akihiro , Nakamura Kenji , Kotoura Noriko , Hashimoto Takahiko , Yamamoto Shingo
Published: January 2019

Introduction

In posterior urethroplasty, exposure of the proximal urethral stump is the most important step that determines surgical outcome. However, this is sometimes difficult due to deviation of the prostate or overlying scar tissue. We present a novel preoperative simulation and intraoperative navigation method for this step.

Case presentation

Three patients underwent excision and primary anastomosis for posterior urethral disruption after pelvic fracture. Preoperatively, volume‐rendering image of the posterior urethra was constructed from gadolinium‐enhanced magnetic resonance image, enabling simulation from the viewpoint of the operator in all three cases. Intraoperative navigation was performed in two patients by using transrectal ultrasound, visualizing the acoustic shadow of a cystoscope inserted into the prostatic urethra via the cystostomy tract. The overlying scar tissue was removed toward the urethral stumps identified by navigation. Urethroplasty was successful in all three patients.

Conclusion

The present methods were useful for precise identification of the proximal urethral stump.
Controlling for ability using test scores
Authors: Williams Benjamin
Published: January 2019

This paper proposes a semiparametric method to control for ability using standardized test scores, or other item response assessments, in a regression model. The proposed method is based on a model in which the parameter of interest is invariant to monotonic transformations of ability. I show that the estimator is consistent as both the number of observations and the number of items on the test grow to infinity. I also derive conditions under which this estimator is root‐n consistent and asymptotically normal. The proposed method is easy to implement, does not impose a parametric item response model, and does not require item‐level data. I demonstrate the finite‐sample performance in a Monte Carlo study and implement the procedure for a wage regression using data from the NLSY1979.
Bayesian parametric and semiparametric factor models for large realized covariance matrices
Authors: Jin Xin , Maheu John M. , Yang Qiao
Published: January 2019

This paper introduces a new factor structure suitable for modeling large realized covariance matrices with full likelihood‐based estimation. Parametric and nonparametric versions are introduced. Because of the computational advantages of our approach, we can model the factor nonparametrically as a Dirichlet process mixture or as an infinite hidden Markov mixture, which leads to an infinite mixture of inverse‐Wishart distributions. Applications to 10 assets and 60 assets show that the models perform well. By exploiting parallel computing the models can be estimated in a matter of a few minutes.
“I didn’t take it too seriously because I’d just never heard of it”: Experiential knowledge and genetic screening for thalassaemia in the UK
Authors: Boardman Felicity K. , Hale Rachel
Published: January 2019

Members of the public face particular challenges when undergoing reproductive genetic screening. Lack of family history with genetic disease has been identified as a key barrier affecting screening uptake and responses to genetic risk. This study explores this obstacle using beta thalassaemia as a case study. Fifteen in‐depth qualitative interviews were conducted exploring the reproductive views and decisions of people at risk of transmitting thalassaemia. Eleven participants had thalassaemia themselves and/or were members of an affected family. Four participants were identified as thalassaemia carriers through genetic screening programmes with no family history. Notable differences were observed between these two groups. For thalassaemic individuals and families, past experience clarified and facilitated their sense of reproductive responsibility, however carriers struggled to relate to, and incorporate the information into their lives. It was witnessing their child becoming symptomatic—rather than receiving a diagnosis or genetic risk information per se that had the most substantial influence on carriers’ subsequent views and decisions. Educational resources used to support genetic screening programmes would benefit from an engagement with the experiential accounts of life with genetic disease in order to more effectively bridge the chasm in knowledge and understanding between affected families and the general public, towards whom expansive genetic screening is aimed.
Online decision support for persons having a genetic predisposition to cancer and their partners during reproductive decision‐making
Authors: Reumkens Kelly , Tummers Marly H. E. , Gietel‐Habets Joyce J. G. , van Kuijk Sander M. J. , Aalfs Cora M. , van Asperen Christi J. , Ausems Margreet G. E. M. , Collée Margriet , Dommering Charlotte J. , Kets C. Marleen , van der Kolk Lizet E. , Oosterwijk Jan C. , Tjan‐Heijnen Vivianne C. G. , van der Weijden Trudy , de Die‐Smulders Christine E. M. , van Osch Liesbeth A. D. M.
Published: January 2019

A nationwide pretest–posttest study was conducted in all clinical genetic centres in the Netherlands, to evaluate the effects of an online decision aid to support persons who have a genetic predisposition to cancer and their partners in making an informed decision regarding reproductive options. Main outcomes (decisional conflict, knowledge, realistic expectations, level of deliberation, and decision self‐efficacy) were measured before use (T0), immediately after use (T1), and at 2 weeks (T2) after use of the decision aid. Paired sample t tests were used to compute differences between the first and subsequent measurements. T0–T1 and T0–T2 comparisons indicate a significant reduction in mean decisional conflict scores with stronger effects for participants with high baseline decisional conflict. Furthermore, use of the decision aid resulted in increased knowledge levels and improved realistic expectations. Level of deliberation only increased for participants with lower baseline levels of deliberation. Decision self‐efficacy increased for those with low baseline scores, whereas those with high baseline scores showed a reduction at T2. It can be concluded that use of the decision aid resulted in several positive outcomes indicative of informed decision‐making. The decision aid is an appropriate and highly appreciated tool to be used in addition to reproductive counseling.
Examining modus operandi in stranger child abduction: A comparison of attempted and completed cases
Authors: Collie Craig J.R. , Shalev Greene Karen
Published: January 2019

Existing inquiries purporting to study and describe offender behaviour in stranger child abduction (SCA) have utilised an overly narrow definition of modus operandi (MO), focusing only on very outset of the offence. The study aims to reflect changes that occur as the offence proceeds and to examine whether differentiating between attempted and completed cases can provide greater understanding of MO in SCA. The MO utilised by offenders in 78 cases of SCA retrieved from publicly available U.K. sources were examined. Descriptive analysis was used to determine which types of behaviour were present. Multidimensional scaling was used to categorise these behaviours and to establish whether any relationships existed between them, with view to ascertaining whether there were any clear patterns among strategies. Results found support for differentiating attempted and completed offences, with the analysis highlighting that offenders who utilised multiple means of control, who were more aggressive, and who shifted their MO from one theme to another, were more likely to complete the offence. The study concludes that more nuanced categorisations of SCA offending approaches, which reflect change over time, are required, and argues for additional, contextual information to be incorporated into future work.
Population net benefit of prostate MRI with high spatiotemporal resolution contrast‐enhanced imaging: A decision curve analysis
Authors: Prabhu Vinay , Rosenkrantz Andrew B. , Otazo Ricardo , Sodickson Daniel K. , Kang Stella K.
Published: January 2019

Background

The value of dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) sequences in prostate MRI compared with noncontrast MRI is controversial.

Purpose

To evaluate the population net benefit of risk stratification using DCE‐MRI for detection of high‐grade prostate cancer (HGPCA), with or without high spatiotemporal resolution DCE imaging.

Study Type

Decision curve analysis.

Population

Previously published patient studies on MRI for HGPCA detection, one using DCE with golden‐angle radial sparse parallel (GRASP) images and the other using standard DCE‐MRI.

Field Strength/Sequence

GRASP or standard DCE‐MRI at 3 T.

Assessment

Each study reported the proportion of lesions with HGPCA in each Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2 (PI‐RADS v2) category (1–5), before and after reclassification of peripheral zone lesions from PI‐RADS 3–4 based on contrast‐enhanced images. This additional risk stratifying information was translated to population net benefit, when biopsy was hypothetically performed for: all lesions, no lesions, PI‐RADS ≥3 (using NC‐MRI), and PI‐RADS ≥4 on DCE.

Statistical Tests

Decision curve analysis was performed for both GRASP and standard DCE‐MRI data, translating the avoidance of unnecessary biopsies and detection of HGPCA to population net benefit. We standardized net benefit values for HGPCA prevalence and graphically summarized the comparative net benefit of biopsy strategies.

Results

For a clinically relevant range of risk thresholds for HGPCA (>11%), GRASP DCE‐MRI with biopsy of PI‐RADS ≥4 lesions provided the highest net benefit, while biopsy of PI‐RADS ≥3 lesions provided highest net benefit at low personal risk thresholds (2–11%). In the same range of risk thresholds using standard DCE‐MRI, the optimal strategy was biopsy for all lesions (0–15% risk threshold) or PI‐RADS ≥3 on NC‐MRI (16–33% risk threshold).

Data Conclusion

GRASP DCE‐MRI may potentially enable biopsy of PI‐RADS ≥4 lesions, providing relatively preserved detection of HGPCA and avoidance of unnecessary biopsies compared with biopsy of all PI‐RADS ≥3 lesions.

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:1400–1408.
Climate model projections for future seasonal rainfall cycle statistics in Northwest Costa Rica
Authors: AlMutairi Bandar S. , Grossmann Iris , Small Mitchell J.
Published: January 2019

Increasing water scarcity due to rising demand and changes in climate and land use are expected to exert significant stress on water resources in many parts of the world. In many areas, distinctive patterns of seasonal precipitation play an important role in regional ecosystems, economies, and food and energy supplies. Given the inconsistency among climate model precipitation projections, this study develops a statistical approach to better characterize seasonal patterns of precipitation and to assess the potential impact of climate change on these patterns. The method is applied to evaluate the bimodal seasonal pattern of precipitation in northwest Costa Rica as a case study. A Gaussian mixture model is used to describe the bimodal pattern and quantify changes in the seasonal precipitation cycle projected by 19 Coupled General Circulation Models. The model simulations for the current period (1979–2005) are compared with observed monthly precipitation data based on four goodness‐of‐fit metrics to select the best performing models. The monthly bias‐corrected and spatially disaggregated (BCSD) climate projections from the selected models are used to investigate the projected change in the bimodal seasonal pattern, seasonal mean precipitation and interannual variability at the late twenty‐first century. Under RCP8.5, the degree of consistency associated with these BCSD climate projections is found to be higher for the projections of the midsummer drought than that for the early portion of the wet season (early season). For the late portion of the wet season (late season) projections, the degree of consistency is found to be the lowest. The proposed method provides (a) an overall characterization of inconsistencies in climate model projections for the region, (b) more information about the possible changes in the seasonal cycle of precipitation, and (c) the possibility of performing detailed comparison tests among climate models over a set of simulations and projections.
High‐resolution mapping of daily climate variables by aggregating multiple spatial data sets with the random forest algorithm over the conterminous United States
Authors: Hashimoto Hirofumi , Wang Weile , Melton Forrest S. , Moreno Adam L. , Ganguly Sangram , Michaelis Andrew R. , Nemani Ramakrishna R.
Published: January 2019

High‐resolution gridded climate data products are crucial to research and practical applications in climatology, hydrology, ecology, agriculture, and public health. Previous works to produce multiple data sets were limited by the availability of input data as well as computational techniques. With advances in machine learning and the availability of several daily satellite data sets providing unprecedented information at 1 km or higher spatial resolutions, it is now possible to improve upon earlier data sets in terms of representing spatial variability. We developed the NEX (NASA Earth Exchange) Gridded Daily Meteorology (NEX‐GDM) model, which can estimate the spatial pattern of regional surface climate variables by aggregating several dozen two‐dimensional data sets and ground weather station data. NEX‐GDM does not require physical assumptions and can easily extend spatially and temporally. NEX‐GDM employs the random forest algorithm for estimation, which allows us to find the best estimate from the spatially continuous data sets. We used the NEX‐GDM model to produce historical 1‐km daily spatial data for the conterminous United States from 1979 to 2017, including precipitation, minimum temperature, maximum temperature, dew point temperature, wind speed, and solar radiation. In this study, NEX‐GDM ingested a total of 30 spatial variables from 13 different data sets, including satellite, reanalysis, radar, and topography data. Generally, the spatial patterns of precipitation and temperature produced were similar to previous data sets with the exception of mountain regions in the western United States. The analyses for each spatially continuous data set show that satellite and reanalysis led to better estimates and that the incorporation of satellite data allowed NEX‐GDM to capture the spatial patterns associated with urban heat island effects. The NEX‐GDM data is available to the community through the NEX data portal.
Cross striation in human permanent and deciduous enamel measured with confocal Raman microscopy
Authors: Desoutter Alban , Slimani Amel , Al‐Obaidi Rand , Barthélemi Stephane , Cuisinier Frederic , Tassery Hervé , Salehi Hamideh
Published: January 2019

Dental enamel is the most mineralized tissue in the human body and has a very complex organization. The aim of the present study was to evaluate chemical composition and orientation of crystals in human enamel cross striation using confocal Raman microscope. Slices of teeth were prepared and scanned using a confocal Raman microscope. Cross striation spacing was calculated according to the variation of PO43− peak intensity. The measurements showed a characteristic length between two cross striations of 2.70 (SD 0.43) μm for permanent teeth and 1.75 (SD 0.37) for deciduous teeth. Ratios between OH and PO43− peaks, for 0 and 90 degrees angulation, are, respectively, 9.18 (SD 0.80) and 44.74 (SD 3.12) for decidual teeth, and 11.72 (SD 1.46) and 22.12 (SD 3.15) for adult teeth. This confirmed that the hydroxyapatite crystal is well oriented along the enamel prism, as reported in the literature, but with a significant increase in deciduous teeth. K‐mean cluster binary images were calculated to compare the ratio of the centroid peaks of the cross striation zone and inter cross striation material. The regions corresponding to inner prism, included cross striations, are more mineralized than the outer part of enamel prism. In the prism, the Pearson correlation test was performed based on the intensity of hydroxyapatite characteristic peaks (ν1 PO43−, ν1 CO32−, and OH). The variations were well correlated: These results indicated that cross striations corresponded to the variation of hydroxyapatite concentration and not to a variation of crystals orientation.
Quantitative second harmonic generation imaging of leporine, canine, and porcine vocal fold collagen
Authors: Devine Erin E. , Liu Yuming , Keikhosravi Adib , Eliceiri Kevin W. , Jiang Jack J.
Published: January 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Vocal fold collagen composition is an important determinant of material properties and mucosal wave propagation. Collagen alignment and straightness are quantitatively characterized by second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging. We examined leporine, canined and porcine vocal folds showing collagen composition variation that is species, location, and strain specific.

Study Design

Animal model.

Methods

Leporine (n = 5), canine (n = 5), and porcine (n = 5) larynges were harvested and fixed in situ. Samples were transversely sectioned, and SHG images were collected for two inferior–superior sections along five anterior–posterior locations. Additional porcine samples were fixed and imaged under tensile strain (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, n = 5 per group). Two‐way repeated measures (RM) analysis of variance (ANOVA) tested for section and location differences in each species. Multiway RM‐ANOVA tested for section, location, and strain differences in porcine samples.

Results

Alignment and straightness were higher inferiorly in the porcine (P = .0047, P = .002) and canine (P = .0011, P < .001) vocal folds, but not in leporine samples (P = .67652, P = .4831). There were significant interactions between elongation and superior–inferior section for both alignment (P = .0047) and straightness (P = .0371).

Conclusions

Our results correspond well to findings in the literature that the inferior vocal fold lip is stiffer in porcine and canine larynges. The absence of a collagen gradient in the leporine vocal fold is notable because rabbits are less vocal animals, indicating the collagen gradient may be a result of voice use and an important consideration in model selection when extracellular matrix is of interest. Strain results were also consistent with the role of collagen in strain stiffening behavior of vocal fold tissue.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:2549–2556, 2019
Excessive inflammation portends complications: Wound cytokines and head and neck surgery outcomes
Authors: Lassig Amy Anne D. , Lindgren Bruce R. , Itabiyi Ridwan , Joseph Anne M. , Gupta Kalpna
Published: January 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Postoperative wound‐healing complications can be devastating after head and neck surgery. Whereas many patients are expected to have more complications, few objective indicators predict these poorer outcomes. We evaluated wound healing in this population by studying the association between biomarkers and surgical outcomes.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

A study was performed of head and neck surgery patients at our tertiary care center, from 2012 to 2015. Postsurgical drain fluid was collected 24 hours postoperatively. Biomarkers of wound healing were assayed. These included interleukin (IL)‐1, ‐6, and ‐8; tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α; transforming growth factor β; epidermal growth factor; fibroblast growth factor; C‐reactive protein (CRP); vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1; and placental growth factor. Patient characteristics and clinical outcomes were recorded. Two‐sample, two‐sided t tests evaluated differences in cytokine levels by clinical outcomes.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients were enrolled with drain fluid collection. IL‐1β, IL‐8, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 were significantly higher in the wound fluid of subjects with complications. Patients with longer length of stay in days had statistically higher levels of TNF‐α (P = .011), IL‐6 (P = .021), IL‐8 (P = .004), IL‐1β (P = .004), MMP‐1 (P = .002), MMP‐2 (P = .022), VEGF‐A (P = .038), and CRP (P < .001), and longer length of stay was associated with malignancy. There were no statistically significant associations between baseline clinical characteristics and post‐operative complications.

Conclusions

In this head and neck surgical cohort, higher IL‐1β, IL‐8, and MMP‐9 levels in wound fluid were associated with postoperative complications, and elevation of multiple proinflammatory cytokines was associated with longer length of stay. These findings suggest excessive inflammation in early wound healing may portend poorer clinical outcomes after head and neck surgery.

Level of Evidence

2b

Laryngoscope, 129:E238–E246, 2019
Smartphone capture of flexible laryngoscopy: Optics, subsite visualization, and patient satisfaction
Authors: Maurrasse Sarah E. , Schwanke Theresa W. , Tabaee Abtin
Published: January 2019

Objective

To determine whether a smartphone adaptor can record laryngoscopic videos of adequate quality for clinical diagnosis and communication among otolaryngologists and assess the impact of recorded exams on patient satisfaction.

Methods

Twenty adult inpatients undergoing flexible laryngoscopy in a tertiary care medical center were prospectively enrolled. Each subject's larynx was visualized with the standard laryngoscope eyepiece and with an attached mobile phone adaptor with video recording capabilities. A 5‐point Likert scale was used by the resident performing the scope to grade the adaptor and eyepiece exams. The same scale was used by an offsite otolaryngology attending to grade the adaptor video. Patients were shown the video, and a satisfaction survey was administered.

Results

In all patients, the adaptor was easy to use and required minimal setup. Ninety percent of patients reported an increase in satisfaction after watching the video of their exam. The eyepiece was superior to the adaptor in resolution, focus, color fidelity, brightness, and optical fluidity (P < 0.05). The video recording was deemed sufficient for clinical assessment in 90% of cases. The offsite reviewer determined that there would be “little” (15%) or “no value” (65%) in repeating the scope exam in the majority of patients. The laryngeal subsites were equally visible with the eyepiece and the adaptor (“full view,” 85%–100%).

Conclusion

Laryngoscopy videos recorded by a portable smartphone adaptor are sufficient for clinical evaluation in the majority of cases. This technology may improve patient satisfaction and communication among clinicians.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 129:2147–2152, 2019
Spare roof technique in reduction rhinoplasty: Prospective study of the first one hundred patients
Authors: Santos Mariline , Rego Ângela Reis , Coutinho Miguel , Sousa Cecília Almeida e , Ferreira Miguel Gonçalves
Published: January 2019

Objective

Assess the aesthetic and functional outcomes of the first 100 patients who underwent reduction rhinoplasty with the spare roof technique (SRT).

Methods

Prospective, interventional, and longitudinal study performed on consecutive patients undergoing primary rhinoplasty by SRT. All the surgical procedures were performed by the surgeon who first described this technique. The validated Portuguese version of the Utrecht Questionnaire for Outcome Assessment in Aesthetic Rhinoplasty was used. Patients completed the questionnaire presurgery and again 3 and 12 months postsurgery. In addition, a visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to score nasal patency for both sides.

Results

The study population included 100 Caucasian Mediterranean patients (33 males; 67 females). Mean age at surgery was 32.8 years. Analysis of the preoperative and postoperative mean aesthetic VAS scores showed a significant improvement from 3.67 to 8.1 (P < 0.001) and 8.44 (P < 0.001), respectively, 3 and 12 months postsurgery. Analysis of the five aesthetic Likert scale questions all showed a highly significant improvement after rhinoplasty. The mean preoperative aesthetic sum score was 13.9, which improved to 8.26 and 7.08, respectively, 3 and 12 months postsurgery (P < 0.001), indicating a significant improvement of subjective body image in relation to nasal appearance. Analysis of the preoperative and postoperative mean functional VAS score showed a significant improvement on both sides.

Conclusion

This prospective statistical study confirms that SRT significantly improved patient quality of life regarding nose function and appearance. It is a reliable technique that can help deliver consistently good results in reduction rhinoplasty in Caucasian patients with dorsal hump seeking rhinoplasty.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 129:2702–2706, 2019
The evolving role of immuno‐oncology for the treatment of head and neck cancer
Authors: Strome Arianna L. , Zhang Xiaoyu , Strome Scott E.
Published: January 2019

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target immune co‐signaling pathways have the potential to enable immune mediated tumor eradication. While early adoption of these agents for the treatment of advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) has produced some astounding clinical successes, the majority of patients fail to respond to therapy. The purpose of this review is to first provide a broad overview of the immuno‐oncology (I‐O) landscape and to then focus on the current status of mAb‐based I‐O (mAb:I‐O) for the treatment of SCCHN, with particular attention to the development of strategies for improving treatment responses.
An international intercomparison of stable carbon isotope composition measurements of dissolved inorganic carbon in seawater
Authors: Cheng L. , Normandeau C. , Bowden R. , Doucett R. , Gallagher B. , Gillikin D. P. , Kumamoto Y. , McKay J. L. , Middlestead P. , Ninnemann U. , Nothaft D. , Dubinina E. O. , Quay P. , Reverdin G. , Shirai K. , Mørkved P. T. , Theiling B. P. , van Geldern R. , Wallace D. W. R.
Published: January 2019

We report results of an intercomparison of stable carbon isotope ratio measurements in seawater dissolved inorganic carbon (δ13C‐DIC) which involved 16 participating laboratories from various parts of the world. The intercomparison involved distribution of samples of a Certified Reference Material for seawater DIC concentration and alkalinity and a preserved sample of deep seawater collected at 4000 m in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean. The between‐lab standard deviation of reported uncorrected values measured with diverse analytical, detection, and calibration methods was 0.11‰ (1σ). The multi‐lab average δ13C‐DIC value reported for the deep seawater sample was consistent within 0.1‰ with historical measured values for the same water mass. Application of a correction procedure based on a consensus value for the distributed reference material, improved the between‐lab standard deviation to 0.06‰. The magnitude of the corrections were similar to those used to correct independent data sets using crossover comparisons, where deep water analyses from different cruises are compared at nearby locations. Our results demonstrate that the accuracy/uncertainty target proposed by the Global Ocean Observing System (±0.05‰) is attainable, but only if an aqueous phase reference material for δ13C‐DIC is made available and used by the measurement community. Our results imply that existing Certified Reference Materials used for seawater DIC and alkalinity quality control are suitable for this purpose, if a “Certified” or internally consistent “consensus” value for δ13C‐DIC can be assigned to various batches.
Mutualistic co‐evolution of T3SSs during the establishment of symbiotic relationships between Vigna radiata and Bradyrhizobia
Authors: Piromyou Pongdet , Songwattana Pongpan , Teamtisong Kamonluck , Tittabutr Panlada , Boonkerd Nantakorn , Tantasawat Piyada Alisha , Giraud Eric , Göttfert Michael , Teaumroong Neung
Published: January 2019

This study supports the idea that the evolution of type III secretion system (T3SS) is one of the factors that controls Vigna radiata–bradyrhizobia symbiosis. Based on phylogenetic tree data and gene arrangements, it seems that the T3SSs of the Thai bradyrhizobial strains SUTN9‐2, DOA1, and DOA9 and the Senegalese strain ORS3257 may share the same origin. Therefore, strains SUTN9‐2, DOA1, DOA9, and ORS3257 may have evolved their T3SSs independently from other bradyrhizobia, depending on biological and/or geological events. For functional analyses, the rhcJ genes of ORS3257, SUTN9‐2, DOA9, and USDA110 were disrupted. These mutations had cultivar‐specific effects on nodulation properties. The T3SSs of ORS3257 and DOA9 showed negative effects on V. radiata nodulation, while the T3SS of SUTN9‐2 showed no effect on V. radiata symbiosis. In the roots of V. radiata CN72, the expression levels of the PR1 gene after inoculation with ORS3257 and DOA9 were significantly higher than those after inoculation with ORS3257 ΩT3SS, DOA9 ΩT3SS, and SUTN9‐2. The T3Es from ORS3257 and DOA9 could trigger PR1 expression, which ultimately leads to abort nodulation. In contrast, the T3E from SUTN9‐2 reduced PR1 expression. It seems that the mutualistic relationship between SUTN9‐2 and V. radiata may have led to the selection of the most well‐adapted combination of T3SS and symbiotic bradyrhizobial genotype.
Minimize online cheating through proctoring, consequences
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: January 2019

“The myth that many people in the adult online space buy into is that adults don't cheat. And that is what we call, where I'm from, horse hockey,” said Beth Rubin, Ph.D., dean of adult and online education at Campbell University, and an advisory board member for Recruiting & Retaining Adult Learners.