bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outlier detection and influence diagnostics in network meta‐analysis
Authors: Noma Hisashi , Gosho Masahiko , Ishii Ryota , Oba Koji , Furukawa Toshi A.
Published: September 2020

Network meta‐analysis has been gaining prominence as an evidence synthesis method that enables the comprehensive synthesis and simultaneous comparison of multiple treatments. In many network meta‐analyses, some of the constituent studies may have markedly different characteristics from the others, and may be influential enough to change the overall results. The inclusion of these “outlying” studies might lead to biases, yielding misleading results. In this article, we propose effective methods for detecting outlying and influential studies in a frequentist framework. In particular, we propose suitable influence measures for network meta‐analysis models that involve missing outcomes and adjust the degree of freedoms appropriately. We propose three influential measures by a leave‐one‐trial‐out cross‐validation scheme: (1) comparison‐specific studentized residual, (2) relative change measure for covariance matrix of the comparative effectiveness parameters, (3) relative change measure for heterogeneity covariance matrix. We also propose (4) a model‐based approach using a likelihood ratio statistic by a mean‐shifted outlier detection model. We illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods via applications to a network meta‐analysis of antihypertensive drugs. Using the four proposed methods, we could detect three potential influential trials involving an obvious outlier that was retracted because of data falsifications. We also demonstrate that the overall results of comparative efficacy estimates and the ranking of drugs were altered by omitting these three influential studies.
Peritoneal carcinomatosis in gastric cancer: Are Hispanics at higher risk?
Authors: Choi Audrey H. , Ji Liang , Babcock Blake , Ramos Vicente , Kwong Mei Li M. , Morgan John W. , Selleck Matthew J. , Langridge William H. R. , DeLeon Marino , Wall Nathan R. , Lum Sharon , Pigazzi Alessio , Dayyani Farshid , Senthil Maheswari
Published: September 2020

Background

A recent study from our group identified Hispanic race/ethnicity as an independent predictor of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) in gastric cancer. We sought to identify the tumor factors that might contribute to this strong association in Hispanics.

Methods

California Cancer Registry data were used to identify patients diagnosed with gastric adenocarcinoma from 2004 to 2014. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine odds ratios for cancer stage, tumor location, grade, histology, and PC.

Results

Of 16,275 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma who met inclusion criteria, 6463 (39.7%) were non‐Hispanic White (NHW), 4953 (30.4%) were Hispanic, 1020 (6.3%) were non‐Hispanic Black (NHB), and 3915 (23.6%) were Asian/other. Compared to NHW, Hispanics were more likely to have a poorly differentiated grade (65.9% vs. 57.6%; p < .001), signet ring adenocarcinoma (28.1% vs. 17.6%; p < .001) and stage IV (51.9% vs. 45.0%; p < .001) gastric cancer. The proportion of stage IV patients with PC was also significantly higher in Hispanics compared to NHW, NHB, and Asian/other (28.5% vs. 16.6%, 20.5%, and 25.2%, respectively; p < .001).

Conclusions

Hispanic ethnicity is an independent predictor of aggressive tumor phenotype and PC. Disproportionate incidence of signet ring adenocarcinoma and PC highlight the need to explore the genomic differences in Hispanic gastric cancer.
Age‐related molecular changes in the lumbar dorsal root ganglia of mice: Signs of sensitization, and inflammatory response
Authors: Vincent Kathleen , Dona Chethana Prabodhanie Gallage , Albert Todd J , Dahia Chitra Lekha
Published: September 2020

Aging is a major risk factor for numerous painful, inflammatory, and degenerative diseases including disc degeneration. A better understanding of how the somatosensory nervous system adapts to the changing physiology of the aging body will be of great significance for our expanding aging population. Previously, we reported that chronological aging of mouse lumbar discs is pathological and associated with behavioral changes related to pain. It is established that with age and degeneration the lumbar discs become inflammatory and innervated. Here we analyze the aging lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and spinal cord dorsal horn (SCDH) in mice between 3 and 24 months of age for age‐related somatosensory adaptations. We observe that as mice age there are signs of peripheral sensitization, and response to inflammation at the molecular and cellular level in the DRGs. From 12 months onwards the mRNA expression of vasodilator and neurotransmitter, Calca (CGRP); stress (and survival) marker, Atf3; and neurotrophic factor, Bdnf, increases linearly with age in the DRGs. Further, while the mRNA expression of neuropeptide, Tac1, precursor of Substance P, did not change at the transcriptional level, TAC1 protein expression increased in 24‐month‐old DRGs. Additionally, elevated expression of NFκB subunits, Nfkb1 and Rela, but not inflammatory mediators, Tnf, Il6, Il1b, or Cox2, in the DRGs suggest peripheral nerves are responding to inflammation, but do not increase the expression of inflammatory mediators at the transcriptional level. These results identify a progressive, age‐related shift in the molecular profile of the mouse somatosensory nervous system and implicates nociceptive sensitization and inflammatory response.
Multidimensional liquid chromatography approaches for analysis of food contaminants
Authors: Arena Katia , Mandolfino Filippo , Cacciola Francesco , Dugo Paola , Mondello Luigi
Published: September 2020

In the past years, multidimensional liquid chromatography became very widespread for the complete separation of non‐volatile analytes in complex matrices. The main advantage of these techniques, especially when coupled with mass spectrometry, is the enhancement of separation power or peak capacity, due to an increase in selectivity and sensitivity of the two systems. With respect to conventional one‐dimensional liquid chromatography, multidimensional liquid chromatography allows us to resolve potential co‐elutions and also minimize the matrix effect thus providing a more accurate quantitative analysis. This review provides an overview on the presence of contaminants in food, the main sources of contamination, and finally, the techniques used to reveal their presence. All different modes, investigated so far on this topic for heart‐cutting and comprehensive techniques were described. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are reported in addition to the main food applications.
Construction of polymer monolithic columns in polypropylene ink‐pen tubes for separation of proteins by cation‐exchange chromatography
Authors: Henrique do Nascimento Fernando , Trazzi Catharina Raquel Lemos , Moraes Amanda Hanashiro , Velasques Caryna Moraes , Costa Diego Miranda de Souza , Masini Jorge Cesar
Published: September 2020

We describe the synthesis of polymer monoliths inside polypropylene tubes from ink pens. These tubes are cheap, chemically stable, and resistant to pressure. UV‐initiated grafting with 5 wt% benzophenone in methanol for 20 min activated the internal surface, thus enabling the covalent binding of ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, also via photografting. The pendant vinyl groups attached a poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) monolith prepared via photopolymerization. These tubes measured 100–110 mm long, with 2 mm of internal diameter. The parent monoliths were functionalized with Na2SO3 or iminodiacetate to produce strong and weak cation exchangers, respectively. The columns exhibited permeabilities varying from 2.7 to 3.3 × 10−13 m2, which enabled the separation of proteins at 500 µL/min and back pressures <2.8 MPa. Neither structure collapse nor monolith detachment occurred at flow rates as high as 2.0 mL/min, which produced back pressures between 6.9 and 9.0 MPa. The retention times of ovalbumin, ribonuclease A, cytochrome C, and lysozyme in salt gradient at pH 7.0 followed the order of increasing isoelectric points, confirming the cation exchange mechanism. Separation and determination of lysozyme in egg white proved the applicability of the columns to the analysis of complex samples.
A conceptual ontological framework for managing the social business process to enhance customer experience
Authors: Helmy Yehia M. , Abdelgaber Sayed , Fahmy Hanan , Montasser Hend S.
Published: September 2020

Nowadays, organizations strive for business process optimization to survive the current competitive business environment. The widespread use of social media and Web 2.0 applications has dramatically changed the structure of the business process. Such evolution caused an increase in the flow of data and information, which led to knowledge‐intensive business processes. Thus, modeling the knowledge‐intensive processes became essential to make use of the flow of knowledge from social media and to fulfill their demanding requirements. Therefore, knowledge and social dimensions should be integrated into the traditional business process life cycle. This integration yields a large flow of customer knowledge that needs to be efficiently used and managed. Moreover, the use of ontologies for knowledge representation opens up a supplementary view for providing machine‐accessible terminology to processes. Ontologies make a significant contribution to the categorization and organization of the incorporated and unstructured information. This paper proposes a framework that integrates the social business processes with a knowledge base in the form of an ontology to manage and enhance the overall customer experience. The proposed framework aims to enable organizations to improve knowledge support for their customer‐driven business processes. In addition, the extracted knowledge from social media will support organizations in managing the customer knowledge and building up the relationships with customers. The proposed social ontology will ease the querying of existing customer knowledge and inferring new knowledge that enhances optimizing the business process, and customer experience.
Speech Performance after Anterolateral Thigh Phonatory Tube Reconstruction for Total Laryngectomy
Authors: Lu Yi‐An , Pei Yu‐Cheng , Chuang Hsiu‐Feng , Lin Li‐Yun , Hsin Li‐Jen , Kang Chung‐Jan , Huang Shiang‐Fu , Chiang Hui‐Chen , Tsao Chung‐Kan , Fang Tuan‐Jen
Published: September 2020

Objective

Traditionally, after total laryngopharyngectomy (TLP), patients cannot speak without a prosthesis or an artificial larynx. In Taiwan, most patients use a commercialized pneumatic laryngeal device (PLD). Phonatory tube reconstruction with the anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is a novel, modified version of synchronous digestive and phonatory reconstruction involving a free muscular cutaneous flap. This study reviewed and compared speech performance between patients who underwent novel flap reconstruction and conventional PLD users.

Method

We retrospectively reviewed patients with laryngeal or hypopharyngeal cancer who underwent TLP from August 2017 to September 2019. The voice handicap index (VHI), speech intelligibility, acoustic and aerodynamic analysis results, and speech range profile (SRP) were compared between patients who underwent ALT phonatory tube reconstruction (ALT group) and those using PLDs (PLD group).

Results

Twenty patients were included; 13 patients were included in the ALT group, and 7 patients were included in the PLD group. Compared to the PLD group, the ALT group had a better fundamental frequency range (P < .001) and semitone range (P < .001) during speech but showed worse jitter, shimmer, and harmonic‐to‐noise ratios. The two groups showed comparable VHI and speech intelligibility performance.

Conclusions

The ALT phonatory tube, a novel flap for reconstruction, can restore digestive and voice functions simultaneously. Compared with PLD use, ALT phonatory tube reconstruction yields an improved speech range and comparable levels of voice handicap and speech intelligibility, suggesting that the technique is a good alternative for patients after TLP.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:1349–1357, 2021
The cost of restoring carbon stocks in Brazil's Atlantic Forest
Authors: Brancalion Pedro H. S. , Guillemot Joannès , César Ricardo G. , Andrade Henrique S. , Mendes Alex , Sorrini Taísi B. , Piccolo Marisa D. C. , Peluci Marina C. , Moreno Vanessa D. S. , Colletta Gabriel , Chazdon Robin L.
Published: September 2020

Knowing which restoration approach provides the best returns on investment for accumulating carbon is essential to foster restoration planning, financing, and implementation. Here, we explored the cost‐effectiveness and drivers of aboveground and soil carbon accumulation in restored forests across an agricultural landscape of Brazil's Atlantic Forest. The recovery of aboveground and soil carbon stocks, as well as the implementation and land opportunity costs, was assessed across chronosequences (10–60 years) of second‐growth forests and mixed‐species tree plantings and old growth, reference forest remnants. Plantations accumulated approximately 50% more aboveground carbon than second‐growth forests throughout the chronosequence. When controlling for soil clay content, soil carbon stocks were higher in reference than in restored forests, but they were comparable between plantations and second‐growth forests. After 60 years of stand development, recovery of total carbon stocks in both restoration approaches reached only half of the average stocks of reference forests. Total cost‐effectiveness for carbon accumulation, including both implementation and land opportunity costs, was on average 60% higher for second‐growth forests than for plantations (15.1 and 9.4 kgC US$−1, respectively). Although tree plantations initially showed higher rates of carbon storage than second‐growth forests, their higher implementation and land opportunity costs make them less cost‐effective for carbon farming. Our results further suggest that, at current pricing levels, carbon markets alone have a limited potential to up‐scale restoration efforts in Brazil's Atlantic Forest.
Krill Oil Perturbs Proliferation and Migration of Mouse Colon Cancer Cells in vitro by Impeding Extracellular Signal‐Regulated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathway
Authors: Jing Weiqiang , Bi Yuxuan , Wang Ganyu , Zeng Shuyan , Han Lihui , Yang Hui , Wang Na , Zhao Yunxue
Published: September 2020

The prevalence of colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to increase. Treatment of CRC remains a significant clinical challenge, and effective therapies for advanced CRC are desperately needed. Increasing attention and ongoing research efforts have focused on krill oil that may provide health benefits to the human body. Here we report that krill oil exerts in vitro anticancer activity through a direct inhibition on proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of mouse colon cancer cells. Krill oil inhibited the proliferation and colony formation of CT‐26 colon cancer cells by causing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Cell cycle arrest was attributable to reduction of cyclin D1 levels in krill oil‐treated cells. Further studies revealed that krill oil induced mitochondrial‐dependent apoptosis of CT‐26 cells, including loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, increased cytosolic calcium levels, activation of caspase‐3, and downregulation of anti‐apoptotic proteins MCL‐1 and BCL‐XL. Krill oil suppressed migration of CT‐26 cells by disrupting the microfilaments and microtubules. Extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK) plays crucial roles in regulating proliferation and migration of cancer cells. We found that krill oil attenuated the activation of ERK signaling pathway to exert the effects on cell cycle, apoptosis, and migration of colon cancer cells. We speculate that polyunsaturated fatty acids of krill oil may dampen ERK activation by decreasing the phospholipid saturation of cell membrane. Although findings from in vitro studies may not necessarily translate in vivo, our study provides insights into the possibility that krill oil or its components could have therapeutic potential in colon cancer.
Single‐Shot Ultraviolet Compressed Ultrafast Photography
Authors: Lai Yingming , Xue Yujia , Côté Christian‐Yves , Liu Xianglei , Laramée Antoine , Jaouen Nicolas , Légaré François , Tian Lei , Liang Jinyang
Published: September 2020

Compressed ultrafast photography (CUP) is an emerging potent technique that allows imaging a nonrepeatable or difficult‐to‐produce transient event in a single shot. Despite many recent advances, existing CUP techniques operate only at visible and near‐infrared wavelengths. In addition, spatial encoding via a digital micromirror device (DMD) in CUP systems often limits its field of view and imaging speeds. Finally, conventional reconstruction algorithms have limited control of the reconstruction process to further improve the image quality in the recovered datacubes of the scene. To overcome these limitations, this article reports a single‐shot UV‐CUP that exhibits a sequence depth of up to 1500 frames with a size of 1750 × 500 pixels at an imaging speed of 0.5 trillion frames per second. A patterned photocathode is integrated into a streak camera, which overcomes the previous restrictions in DMD‐based spatial encoding and improves the system's compactness. Meanwhile, the plug‐and‐play alternating direction method of multipliers algorithm is implemented to CUP's image reconstruction to enhance reconstructed image quality. UV‐CUP's single‐shot ultrafast imaging ability is demonstrated by recording UV pulses transmitting through various spatial patterns. UV‐CUP is expected to find many applications in both fundamental and applied science.
Bias‐Modulated Multicolor Discrimination Enabled by an Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Photodetector with a p‐i‐n‐i‐p Configuration
Authors: Kim Hyeonghun , Kim Woochul , Pak Yusin , Yoo Tae Jin , Lee Hae‐Won , Lee Byoung Hun , Kwon Sooncheol , Jung Gun Young
Published: September 2020

Despite significant progress in color discrimination in various optoelectronic systems, most conventional technologies equipped with dissipative optical filters still suffer from high incident light loss and costly manufacturing. Herein, it is demonstrated that a novel class of organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite photodetectors based on a p‐i‐n‐i‐p structure can exhibit a switchable spectral response caused by bias modulation. A single photodetector with a p‐i‐n‐i‐p structure in which a low‐band n‐i‐p perovskite diode is vertically stacked on top of a high‐band p‐i‐n perovskite diode allows selective charge extraction from each perovskite diode by switching the bias polarity, resulting in fine discrimination of monochromatic red (R), green (G), and blue (B) light. Furthermore, a combination of two p‐i‐n‐i‐p photodetectors is successfully applied for identifying an arbitrary nonmonochromatic color (i.e., a mixed color in RGB space); thus, this approach can pave the way for developing spatially efficient and optical filter‐free imaging systems.
Control of the diffusible hydrogen content in different steel phases through the targeted use of different welding consumables in underwater wet welding
Authors: Klett Jan , Mattos Isabel B. F. , Maier Hans J. , e Silva Régis H. G. , Hassel Thomas
Published: September 2020

Due to the rising number of offshore structures all over the world, underwater wet welding has become increasingly relevant, mainly as a repair method. Welding in direct contact with water involves numerous challenges. A topic focused by many studies is the risk of hydrogen‐induced cracking in wet weldments due to hardness values of up to 500 HV 0.2 in the heat‐affected zone (HAZ) and high levels of diffusible hydrogen in the weld metal. The risk of cracking increases as the equivalent carbon content rises, because the potential to form martensitic structures within the HAZ rises too. Thus, high‐strength steels are especially prone to hydrogen‐induced cracking and are considered unsafe for underwater wet repair weldments.
Hierarchically Structured M13 Phage Aerogel for Enhanced Sound‐Absorption
Authors: Wang Guan , Yuan Pingqiu , Ma Binghe , Yuan Weizheng , Luo Jian
Published: September 2020

Aerogels are a novel type of open‐cell porous material. They are particularly suitable for passive sound‐absorption due to their high porosity and high‐surface areas of the internal structures, but with the drawbacks of limited absorption rate of low‐frequency sound and poor mechanical performance. Here, it is first demonstrated that the M13 phage aerogel(M13AG) with hierarchically porous and ribbing structures is beneficial to sound‐absorption and the local piezoelectric effect attributed to M13 phages can further improve the sound‐absorption ability in the low‐frequency. The sound‐absorption coefficient of the M13AG with thickness of 20 mm attains peak value of 0.992 at 1600 Hz. In addition, the M13AG is assembled on a metallic foam framework to enhance its mechanical performance. The resulting M13AG/nickel foam exhibits enhanced compressive yield strength up to 0.14 MPa. This study opens up a new opportunity for passive sound‐absorption.
One‐Pot Synthesis and Tribological Properties of Oil‐Containing Self‐Lubricating Polyurethane Materials
Authors: Mu Bo , Cui Jianbing , Yang Baoping , Cui Jinfeng , Guo Junhong , Tian Li
Published: September 2020

In this work, polyurethane (PU) materials containing paraffin oil are successfully prepared via an emulsion template method, which realizes the one‐pot preparation of self‐lubrication materials. The results show that the block copolymer surfactant (PEG20‐PPG70‐PEG20, P‐123) can stabilize the nonaqueous PU emulsion with the paraffin oil serving both as dispersed phase of oil in oil emulsion and as a lubricant in the materials, and hence enables the fabrication of oil incorporating PU materials accordingly. Tribological tests show that the friction coefficient of PU material with 35% paraffin oil decreases to 0.05 which account for 93.06% reduce compared to that of pure PU.
Versatile design of compound vastus lateralis muscle and anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous perforator free flaps for customized reconstruction of complex skin and soft tissue defects in the extremities
Authors: He Jiqiang , Wu Panfeng , Zhou Zhengbing , Kalsi Richa , Yu Fang , Qing Liming , Tang Juyu
Published: September 2020

Background

Compound anterolateral thigh flaps are popular for three‐dimensional reconstruction of complex soft tissue defects. We present our 10‐year experience using compound vastus lateralis (VL) muscle and anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous perforator (ALTP) flaps, and introduce three versatile customizations of this flap for individualized reconstruction of complex three‐dimensional soft tissue defects.

Methods

From May 2008 to June 2017, compound VL muscle and ALTP flaps were performed in 67 consecutive patients aged 14–75 years (62 men and 5 women). The defects were in either the lower (n = 53) or upper extremity (n = 14), and ranged in size from 8 × 4 cm2 to 25 × 6 cm2. Dead space volume ranged from 4 × 2 × 1 cm3 to 20 × 3 × 2 cm3, and all flaps were harvested from patients' thighs as one of three types. In type A, a single perforator supplied both the skin and muscle components, with the vascular bundle penetrating the muscle component. In type B, a single perforator supplied both skin and muscle components with separate branches to the skin and muscle. In type C, separate vessels supplied the skin and muscle.

Results

In the 67 patients, 65 flaps survived, and the donor site was closed directly. Vascular compromise occurred in four patients on the first postoperative day. Two flaps were salvaged after emergency re‐exploration. Flap loss occurred in two patients, and these defects were repaired using other flaps. The follow‐up period ranged from 8 to 60 months (mean, 11.9 months). All flaps had satisfactory appearance and texture, and no patients experienced limited hip and knee joint mobility from the donor site operation.

Conclusions

Compound VL muscle and ALTP flaps are a reliable option to reconstruct complex defects of the extremities. Identifying three flap types allowed for more precise customization to cover complex defects with limited donor site morbidity.
Iterative analytic approximation to one‐dimensional nonlinear reaction–diffusion equations
Authors: Kaushik Aditya , Sharma Manju , Gupta Aastha , Choudhary Monika
Published: September 2020

The paper is concerned with a class of nonlinear reaction–diffusion equations with a dissipating parameter. The problem is singularly perturbed from a mathematical perspective. Solutions of these problems are known to exhibit multiscale character. There are narrow regions in which the solution has a steep gradient. To approximate the multiscale solution, we present and analyze an iterative analytic method based on a Lagrange multiplier technique. We obtain closed‐form analytic approximation to nonlinear boundary value problems through iteration. The Lagrange multiplier is obtained optimally, in a general setting, using variational theory and Liouville–Green transforms. The idea of the paper is to overcome the well‐known difficulties associated with numerical methods. Two test examples are taken into account, and rigorous comparative analysis is presented. Moreover, we compare the proposed method with others found in the literature.
Existence of R‐bounded solution operator families for a compressible fluid model of Korteweg type on the half‐space
Authors: Saito Hirokazu
Published: September 2020

The aim of this paper is to show the existence of
‐bounded solution operator families for a generalized resolvent problem on the half‐space arising from a compressible fluid model of Korteweg type. Our main result covers not only the large resolvent parameter
so that |λ|≥δ for some δ > 0, but also small λ satisfying |λ|≤δ.
Two‐phase local/nonlocal gradient mechanics of elastic torsion
Authors: Faghidian S. Ali
Published: September 2020

The higher order two‐phase local/nonlocal elasticity model and the higher order strain gradient theory are unified via an abstract variational scheme. The higher order constitutive integral convolution is established in a consistent variational framework governed by ad hoc functional space of test fields. Equivalent differential constitutive law equipped with nonclassical boundary conditions of constitutive type is determined. The proposed higher order elasticity theory provides as special cases a range of well‐known size‐dependent elasticity models such as nonlocal, two‐phase local/nonlocal, strain gradient, modified nonlocal strain gradient, and nonlocal strain‐driven gradient models. Evidences of well‐posedness of the introduced higher order two‐phase local/nonlocal gradient problems are elucidated by rigorous examination of the elastostatic torsional response of structural schemes of applicative interest in nano‐mechanics. The exact analytical solution of the torsion problem of elastic nano‐beams is derived, graphically demonstrated, and compared with analogous outcomes in the literature. The conceived higher order elasticity theory can efficiently characterize advanced nano‐materials and structural elements of modern nano‐systems.
Inductive wireless power transfer system using multiple coils for rotating propulsive shaft applications
Authors: Hoang Van Ai , Lee Young Chul
Published: September 2020

An induction wireless power transmission (I‐WPT) system using multiple coils has been proposed to drive a wireless sensor system (WSS) that monitors the status of the propulsion shaft. While maintaining a constant transfer voltage, the minimum number of coils and the minimum air gap between coils were extracted through several experiments. The optimized air gap between transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) coils was 3 mm and the number of the Rx and Tx coils was four and six, respectively. The optimized I‐WPT system was installed on the shaft with a diameter of 20 cm and obtained the stable transferred voltage characteristics and output power of 1.75 W with above 75% efficiency in spite of different rotation speed of the shaft.
Compact wideband circularly‐polarized antenna for universal UHF RFID handheld reader
Authors: Zhu Liting , Liu Qiang , Du Guangxing , Li Guolin , Cheng Dong
Published: September 2020

A compact wideband circularly‐polarized (CP) RF identification (RFID) handheld reader antenna based on inverted‐F antennas (IFAs) is proposed. The antenna consists of an upper layer of rotationally symmetric radiation structure and lower layer of feed network. Firstly, the feed network is verified by microwave circuit simulation software. Then the antenna is modeled and simulated with the aid of the full‐wave electromagnetic simulation software. Finally, a prototype is fabricated using FR4 plate and its performance of the proposed antenna is validated. The measured impedance bandwidth of 10 dB and the axial ratio (AR) bandwidth of 3 dB are wider than 13%. The peak gain is greater than 2.2 dBic, and the minimum AR is less than 1.1 dB, with the symmetrical and stable radiation patterns. The antenna has the compact size of 60 × 60 × 15 mm3. The proposed antenna can not only meet the requirements of RFID handheld reader applications in universal ultra‐high frequency (UHF) band (840‐960 MHz), but also has the advantages of wideband, small size, lightweight, low cost, and simple structure. Therefore, the design has a good application prospect in the field of Internet of Things.
Assessment of the compound muscle action potential amplitude return time between exercises or tests in the repetitive nerve stimulation test for Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome
Authors: Oh Shin J.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

When performing postexercise facilitation (PEF) as part of the repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS) test in Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), it is important to avoid any influence of the previous exercise or RNS test on the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude.

Methods

To measure the CMAP amplitude return time (ART) to that at rest, a single CMAP was obtained every 30 seconds until the amplitude was within 5% of that at rest in three exercise periods (10, 20, and 30 seconds) and in 10‐second postexercise (PE) 3‐Hz RNS testing with 17 tests in 10 LEMS patients.

Results

Adequate ART between tests is 150 seconds for 10‐second exercise (Ex) and 10‐second PE 3‐Hz RNS test, 120 seconds for 20‐second Ex, and 90 seconds for 30‐second Ex.

Discussion

We recommend 150 seconds as adequate ART between the PEF test and the next test when performing RNS test in LEMS.
Lower urinary tract dysfunction in adult patients with mitochondrial disease
Authors: Feeney Catherine , Gorman Grainne , Stefanetti Renae , McFarland Robert , Turnbull Doug , Harding Christopher , Sachdeva Ashwin
Published: September 2020

Aims

Mitochondrial diseases present with a spectrum of clinical features, usually with multiorgan involvement and are often characterized by a loss of smooth muscle function. Hence, we hypothesized that mitochondrial dysfunction may contribute to lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction.

Methods

We performed a prospective cohort study at a single, quaternary, mitochondrial disease referral center, enrolling consecutive adult patients with genetically confirmed mitochondrial disease. Data regarding baseline characteristics and disease burden were gathered. LUT dysfunction was assessed using the International Consultation on Incontinence Modular Questionnaire‐Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (ICIQ‐LUTS) questionnaire, bladder voiding efficiency (BVE), and bladder diaries. Patients with one or more features of LUT dysfunction were offered urodynamic testing.

Results

A total of 109 patients were included. Twenty‐six percent of patients manifested at least one feature of LUT dysfunction, which was objectively confirmed in all 14 patients who consented to urodynamic investigation. Disease burden, defined by the Newcastle Mitochondrial Disease Adult Scale (NMDAS), demonstrated a linear relationship with ICIQ‐LUTS severity (P = .01), with a statistically significant relationship between NMDAS‐gastrointestinal scores and LUTS scores (P < .001). Limitations include mutational heterogeneity across the patient cohort.

Conclusions

This is the largest study exploring LUT in patients with mitochondrial disease and supports previous smaller studies suggesting LUT dysfunction is underrecognized in patients with mitochondrial disease and impacts considerably on their quality of life. We propose a clinical guideline for identifying mitochondrial disease patients at risk of LUT dysfunction.
Interventions Aimed at Reducing Fasting Times in Acute Hospital Patients: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yip Adela , Hogan Sophie , Carey Sharon
Published: September 2020

Despite current guidelines recommending fasting from solids for ≤6 hours and clear fluids for ≤2 hours prior to surgery, outdated practices endure; patients fast for unnecessarily prolonged periods because of beliefs regarding aspiration risk upon anaesthesia induction. This literature review aimed to identify and evaluate current interventions aiming to reduce preoperative fasting times for acutely ill hospital patients, summarizing effective interventional strategies and associated outcomes. EMBASE, MEDLINE, PreMEDLINE, and CINAHL were systematically searched. Quality of evidence was assessed using Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tools. Studies, of any type, reporting fasting times as a primary or secondary outcome were included. A total of 1918 potential studies were identified; of these, 16 studies were included. Seven studies investigated the effect of changing fasting protocol on gastric fluid volume/residual gastric volume (GFV/RGV) and gastric pH as surrogate measures for aspiration risk. No significant differences in GFV/RGV and gastric pH due to reduced preoperative fasting were reported, thus no change in aspiration risk. Eight studies documented improvements in patient‐reported outcomes with shorter fasting times. However, this review identified a paucity of studies that trialled interventions to reduce fasting times as the primary aim. These interventions were multimodal and multidisciplinary in nature, incorporating principles of implementation science to successfully achieve significant reductions in fasting times. This review highlights that reducing the preoperative fasting period is safe while improving patient's physical and psychological well‐being. Further high‐quality studies that investigate multimodal interventions, and that utilize implementation science principles, are required in this area.
Weighted target set selection on trees and cycles
Authors: Raghavan S. , Zhang Rui
Published: September 2020

There is significant interest in understanding the dynamics of influence diffusion on a social network. The weighted target set selection (WTSS) problem is a fundamental viral marketing problem arising on social networks. In this problem, the goal is to select a set of influential nodes to target (e.g., for promoting a new product) that can influence the rest of the network. The WTSS problem is APX‐hard. With the goal of generating insights to solve the WTSS problem on arbitrary graphs, we study in this paper the WTSS problem on trees and cycles. For trees, we propose a linear‐time dynamic programming algorithm and present a tight and compact extended formulation. Furthermore, we project the extended formulation onto the space of the natural node variables yielding the polytope of the WTSS problem on trees. This projection leads to an exponentially sized set of valid inequalities whose polynomial‐time separation is also discussed. Next, we focus on cycles: we describe a linear‐time algorithm and present the complete description of the polytope for the WTSS problem on cycles. Finally, we describe how these formulations can be applied to arbitrary graphs.
Minimum color‐degree perfect b‐matchings
Authors: Anapolska Mariia , Büsing Christina , Comis Martin , Krabs Tabea
Published: September 2020

The minimum color‐degree perfect b‐matching problem (Col‐BM) is a new extension of the perfect b‐matching problem to edge‐colored graphs. The objective of Col‐BM is to minimize the maximum number of differently colored edges in a perfect b‐matching that are incident to the same node. We show that Col‐BM is ‐hard on bipartite graphs by a reduction from (3,B2)‐Sat, and conclude that there exists no (2 − ϵ)‐approximation algorithm unless . However, we identify a class of two‐colored complete bipartite graphs on which we can solve Col‐BM in polynomial time. Furthermore, we use dynamic programming to devise polynomial‐time algorithms solving Col‐BM with a fixed number of colors on series‐parallel graphs and simple graphs with bounded treewidth.
Future directions in drone routing research
Authors: Poikonen Stefan , Campbell James F.
Published: September 2020

Optimization of routing problems using drones (unmanned aerial vehicles or UAVs) has become an important area of academic research. The purpose of this article is to look to the future and help stimulate drone routing research in directions we hope will prove interesting and fruitful. We discuss opportunities for better modeling of (1) drone capabilities for both existing drones and those likely to be used in the future, (2) constraints on drone performance and operations, (3) different objectives for various drone services, and (4) alternative delivery modes, as well as some areas for methodological advances and some possible new applications. While much of the research to date has leveraged existing TSP (traveling salesman problem), VRP (vehicle routing problem), and arc routing models, we look forward to new contributions from drone research that use better models of more realistic drone types and new drone applications.
Implicit gradient‐enhanced force‐based Timoshenko fiber element formulation for reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Feng De‐Cheng , Ren Xiaodan
Published: September 2020

In this paper, an implicit gradient force‐based beam element is developed for analysis of reinforced concrete structures. The element is settled on the framework of Timoshenko beam theory, and adopts force interpolations to construct the element formulation. The sectional constitutive relation is described by the well‐known fiber model, where the multi‐axial softened damage‐plasticity model is used for concrete fibers and the uniaxial Menegotto‐Pinto model is used for steel fibers, thus the axial‐flexure‐shear interaction can be reflected naturally at material level. Furthermore, to overcome the localization issues arisen from strain‐softening responses, the implicit gradient theory is introduced to the element. The weak form of the gradient enhancement is derived and an efficient subscale numerical solution is developed. The implementation of the proposed element is discussed in detail. Finally, a series of illustrative numerical examples are utilized to demonstrate the performance of the proposed element, and the results indicate that the element is able to reproduce accurate and objective responses of reinforced concrete structures under monotonic and cyclic loadings.
Situational analysis on the recovery of patients who have undergone major abdominal surgery
Authors: Udomkhwamsuk Warawan , Vuttanon Nuttamon , Limpakan Sirikan
Published: September 2020

Aim

To analyse the recovery situation of patients who underwent abdominal surgery.

Design

A descriptive study.

Method

This study was conducted among 50 participants: 15 postoperative patients, 16 caregivers, 2 surgeons and 17 nurses in a tertiary hospital in Thailand. The state of patients’ recovery after undergoing major abdominal surgery was analysed using Donabedian's approach.

Results

The findings showed that hospitals and some organizations do not have a clear policy about clinical care to help patients recover after undergoing major surgery or to prevent the risk of complications following major abdominal surgery. In addition, there were no clinical practice guidelines in use in each ward. Each ward should have a set of guidelines and procedures for assisting with patient recovery. The procedures should be based on nursing care. It is necessary to have a coordinated multidisciplinary care guideline to use with other health professionals to promote the recovery of patients.
Risk factors for the onset of dependence and chronic psychosis due to cannabis use: Survey of patients with cannabis‐related psychiatric disorders
Authors: Matsumoto Toshihiko , Kawabata Toshitaka , Okita Kyoji , Tanibuchi Yuko , Funada Daisuke , Murakami Maki , Usami Takashi , Yokoyama Rie , Naruse Nobuya , Aikawa Yuzo , Furukawa Aizo , Komatsuzaki Chie , Hashimoto Nozomu , Fujita Osamu , Umemoto Aiko , Kagaya Ariyuki , Shimane Takuya
Published: September 2020

Aim

The objective of the current study was to identify risk factors that affect the onset of dependence and chronic psychosis due to cannabis use.

Methods

We examined clinical genetic factors, psychiatric disorders prior to cannabis use, starting age of cannabis use, duration and frequency of cannabis use, types of cannabis products used, combined use of other psychoactive substances, and the psychiatric diagnosis of 71 patients with cannabis‐related psychiatric disorders who underwent treatment at nine mental health hospitals in Japan. Information was collected from cross‐sectional interview surveys conducted by each patient's attending psychiatrist.

Results

For the diagnosis of dependence syndrome due to the use of cannabis, we found associations with the number of years of cannabis use and the use of cannabis products with a high Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. However, we found no association between diagnosis of residual and late‐onset psychotic disorders and clinical genetic factors, presence of preceding psychiatric disorders, duration and frequency of cannabis use, starting age of cannabis use, or combined use of other psychoactive substances; an association was found only for the absence of use of cannabis products other than dried cannabis.

Conclusion

The onset of cannabis dependence was related to long‐term cannabis use and the use of cannabis products with a high THC content. However, chronic psychosis was not associated with total THC intake or psychiatric vulnerability. Thus, unknown factors appear to be involved in the onset of chronic psychosis.
State estimation for a networked control system with packet delay, packet dropouts, and uncertain observation in S‐E and C‐A channels
Authors: Roy Avinash Kumar , Srinivasan K.
Published: September 2020

In this work, a minimum variance estimator is designed for a networked system with inherent network imperfections in both sensor to estimator (S‐E) and controller to actuator (C‐A) channels simultaneously. The channels are affected by packet delays, dropouts, and uncertain observations. These effects are modeled using five Bernoulli distributed random variables. Correlation of noise at neighboring time caused by random delay is avoided by introducing two additional variables in the augmented stochastic model. The developed augmented stochastic model can handle network imperfections in both the S‐E and C‐A channels simultaneously. A minimum variance recursive linear estimator is designed using an innovation approach and projection theorem. Furthermore, sufficient condition is presented for the existence of steady state property of the proposed estimator. Simulation studies are carried out for the proposed estimator using a numerical example and a single link robot arm. Finally, performance comparison with other popular filters shows the effectiveness of the designed estimator.
Reachable set estimation for neutral Markovian jump systems with mode‐dependent time‐varying delays
Authors: Jiang Xiangli , Xia Guihua , Feng Zhiguang , Jiang Zhengyi
Published: September 2020

This study, under zero initial condition, aims to characterize the reachable set bound for a class of neutral Markovian jump systems (NMJSs) with interval time‐varying delays and bounded disturbances. To begin with, the time‐delays are considered to be mode‐dependent while delay mode and system mode are different. By utilizing free‐weighting matrix method and reciprocally convex combination technique, an ellipsoid‐like bound is characterized for the concerned NMJS with completely known transition probabilities. Based on the provided analytical framework, the case of same delay mode and system mode is also handled. Then, benefitting from a group of free‐connection weighting matrices, the reachable set estimation issue is tackled for the NMJS involving mode‐independent time‐varying delays and partially known transition probabilities. The theoretical analysis is confirmed by numerical simulations.
Clinical Benefit of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Advanced Lung Cancer with EGFR-G719A and Other Uncommon EGFR Mutations
Authors: Sehgal Kartik , Rangachari Deepa , VanderLaan Paul A. , Kobayashi Susumu S. , Costa Daniel B.
Published: September 2020

The optimal management of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with noncanonical epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations (i.e., exon 19 deletion and exon 21 L858R) is constrained by the heterogeneous behavior of individual uncommon mutations and limited prospective clinical data in this setting. Despite encouraging results with osimertinib from a recently published phase II trial from South Korea, afatinib remains the only currently approved drug for patients with tumors harboring uncommon EGFR mutations (i.e., S768I, L861Q, and/or G719X). When used at the standard dose of 40 mg daily, afatinib is associated with significant rates of treatment-related adverse events, leading to frequent dose reductions and treatment discontinuations. We report a case of a woman with advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR-G719A mutation treated with afatinib (at an off-label pulse dose strategy that merits further evaluation in prospective studies) with sustained partial response for 20 months with manageable expected toxicities. Subsequent disease progression was mediated by off-target pan-EGFR inhibitor (including osimertinib)–resistant KRAS mutation and not by acquisition of EGFR-T790M. We further present the current state of evidence in the literature behind use of first-, second-, and third-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors and summarize the evolving spectrum of activity ascribed to osimertinib (and newer EGFR inhibitors with a more favorable therapeutic window and intracranial penetration) in this population of patients with advanced NSCLC and uncommon EGFR mutations.

Key Points

Uncommon EGFR mutations characterize a heterogeneous group of patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Afatinib is the only currently U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved drug for management of advanced NSCLC with uncommon EGFR mutations (S768I, L861Q, and/or G719X). Afatinib treatment at 40 mg daily is associated with high rates of adverse events and dose reductions; alternative strategies including pulse intermittent dosing should be evaluated prospectively. Osimertinib (with favorable safety profile and intracranial penetration) has shown promising results in this population in a phase II trial from South Korea; additional trials are ongoing.