bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early effects of cigarette smoke extract on human oral keratinocytes and carcinogenesis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Foki Elisabeth , Gangl Katharina , Kranebitter Veronika , Niederberger‐Leppin Verena , Eckl‐Dorna Julia , Wiebringhaus Robert , Thurnher Dietmar , Heiduschka Gregor
Published: May 2020

Background

Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Still, the effect of cigarette smoke on the molecular level is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the early effects of cigarette smoke on carcinogenesis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods

Human oral keratinocytes were exposed for 1 week to standardized cigarette smoke extract, and subsequently RT‐quantitative PCR array was performed. Protein expression of dysregulated genes was determined by immunohistochemistry in tissue samples of oral squamous cell carcinoma, oral leukoplakia, and tonsil mucosa.

Results

RT‐PCR revealed upregulation of ITGA‐2 and MMP‐1, whereas TEK receptor tyrosine kinase was downregulated in human oral keratinocytes. ITGA‐2 and MMP‐1 were significantly overexpressed in tissue samples of oral squamous cell carcinoma in comparison to normal mucosa (P <.01 in all experiments).

Conclusion

Upregulation of ITGA‐2 and MMP‐1 induced by cigarette smoke contributes significantly to oral carcinogenesis.
Olfactory and gustatory function impairment in COVID‐19 patients: Italian objective multicenter‐study
Authors: Vaira Luigi Angelo , Hopkins Claire , Salzano Giovanni , Petrocelli Marzia , Melis Andrea , Cucurullo Marco , Ferrari Mario , Gagliardini Laura , Pipolo Carlotta , Deiana Giovanna , Fiore Vito , De Vito Andrea , Turra Nicola , Canu Sara , Maglio Angelantonio , Serra Antonello , Bussu Francesco , Madeddu Giordano , Babudieri Sergio , Giuseppe Fois Alessandro , Pirina Pietro , Salzano Francesco A. , De Riu Pierluigi , Biglioli Federico , De Riu Giacomo
Published: May 2020

Background

Objective data on chemosensitive disorders during COVID‐19 are lacking in the Literature.

Methods

Multicenter cohort study that involved four Italian hospitals. Three hundred and forty‐five COVID‐19 patients underwent objective chemosensitive evaluation.

Results

Chemosensitive disorders self‐reported by 256 patients (74.2%) but the 30.1% of the 89 patients who did not report dysfunctions proved objectively hyposmic. Twenty‐five percentage of patients were seen serious long‐lasting complaints. All asymptomatic patients had a slight lowering of the olfactory threshold. No significant correlations were found between the presence and severity of chemosensitive disorders and the severity of the clinical course. On the contrary, there is a significant correlation between the duration of the olfactory and gustatory symptoms and the development of severe COVID‐19.

Conclusions

Patients under‐report the frequency of chemosensitive disorders. Contrary to recent reports, such objective testing refutes the proposal that the presence of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction may predict a milder course, but instead suggests that those with more severe disease neglect such symptoms in the setting of severe respiratory disease.
Care in the time of coronavirus: Ethical considerations in head and neck oncology
Authors: Gordin Eli A. , Day Andrew , Stankova Lenka , Heitman Elizabeth , Sadler John
Published: May 2020

As COVID‐19 continues to challenge the practice of head and neck oncology, clinicians are forced to make new decisions in the setting of the pandemic that impact the safety of their patients, their institutions, and themselves. The difficulty inherent in these decisions is compounded by potentially serious ramifications to the welfare of patients and health‐care staff, amid a scarcity of data on which to base informed choices. This paper explores the risks of COVID‐19 incurred while striving to uphold the standard of care in head and neck oncology. The ethical problems are assessed from the perspective of the patient with cancer, health‐care provider, and other patients within the health‐care system. While no single management algorithm for head and neck cancer can be universally implemented, a detailed examination of these issues is necessary to formulate ethically sound treatment strategies.
Modified percutaneous tracheostomy in COVID‐19 critically ill patients
Authors: Vargas Maria , Russo Gennaro , Iacovazzo Carmine , Servillo Giuseppe
Published: May 2020

Background

Percutaneous tracheostomy (PT) in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) included several critical steps associated with increased risk of aerosol generation. We reported a modified PT technique aiming to minimize the risk of aerosol generation and to increase the staff safety in COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

PT was performed with a modified technique including the use of a smaller endotracheal tube (ETT) cuffed at the carina during the procedure.

Results

The modified technique we proposed was successfully performed in three critically ill patients with COVID‐19.

Conclusions

In COVID‐19 critically ill patients, a modified PT technique, including the use of a smaller ETT cuffed at the carina and fiber‐optic bronchoscope inserted between the tube and the inner surface of the trachea, may ensure a better airway management, respiratory function, patient comfort, and great safety for the staff.
Surgical Treatments of Hepatobiliary Cancers
Authors: Gunasekaran Ganesh , Bekki Yuki , Lourdusamy Vennis , Schwartz Myron
Published: May 2020

Hepatobiliary cancers which include hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and biliary tract cancers (i.e., cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder carcinoma) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality based on the stage of the disease at presentation. With improved screening for hepatobiliary malignancies in patients with risk factors and with widespread use of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, hepatobiliary malignancies, including incidental diagnosis of gallbladder carcinoma, are on the rise. Definitive treatment of hepatobiliary malignancies include surgical resection, ablation, and liver transplantation. However, management of these cancers is challenging due to the complex hepatobiliary anatomy and the need for meticulous perioperative management especially in patients with advanced liver disease. The management and prognosis of hepatobiliary malignancies vary widely based on the stage of presentation, with surgical options providing the possibility of definitive cure in patients presenting with early‐stage disease. Surgical resection for HCC results in good outcomes if performed in ideal candidates. For patients with early HCC who are not candidates for surgical resection, ablation and liver transplantation should be considered. Similarly, surgical resection is also the definitive treatment for biliary tract cancers, and liver transplantation can be curative in selected patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. The role of routine adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy is not clearly established, but adjuvant therapies can offer better outcomes in patients with advanced disease at presentation. Outcomes of surgical management of hepatobiliary cancers seem to be improving. Given the complex decision‐making process involved, multidisciplinary evaluation is essential to provide and coordinate the best treatments for these patients.
Prevalence and Profile of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Lean Adults: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Young Steven , Tariq Raseen , Provenza John , Satapathy Sanjaya K. , Faisal Kamal , Choudhry Abhijit , Friedman Scott L. , Singal Ashwani K.
Published: May 2020

Data on prevalence and profile of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) among individuals who are lean (normal body mass index) is unclear. Published data from studies comparing lean with obese NAFLD or with healthy subjects on prevalence, comorbidities, liver chemistry and histology, and metabolic/inflammatory markers were analyzed. Data were reported as odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for categorical variables and difference of means for continuous variables. Analysis of 53 studies on 65,029 subjects with NAFLD (38,084 lean) and 249,544 healthy subjects showed a prevalence of lean NAFLD at 11.2% in the general population. Among individuals with NAFLD, the prevalence of lean NAFLD was 25.3%. Lean NAFLD versus healthy subjects had higher odds for abnormalities on metabolic profile, including metabolic syndrome and its components, renal and liver function, and patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) G allele; and inflammatory profile, including uric acid and C‐reactive protein. The abnormalities were less severe among lean versus obese NAFLD on metabolic syndrome with its components, renal and liver chemistry, liver stiffness measurement, PNPLA3 and transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 polymorphisms, and uric acid levels as markers of inflammation. Lean NAFLD had less severe histologic findings, including hepatocyte ballooning, lobular inflammation, NAFLD activity score, and fibrosis stage. Limited data also showed worse outcomes between obese versus lean NAFLD. Conclusion: Lean NAFLD is a distinct entity with metabolic, biochemical, and inflammatory abnormalities compared to healthy subjects and a more favorable profile, including liver histology of steatohepatitis and fibrosis stage, compared to obese NAFLD. We suggest that prospective multicenter studies examine long‐term hepatic and extrahepatic outcomes in individuals with lean NAFLD.
Ambulatory care practice in the COVID‐19 era: Redesigning clinical services and experiential learning
Authors: Mohammad Insaf , Berlie Helen D. , Lipari Melissa , Martirosov Amber Lanae , Duong Andrea A. , Faraj Maggie , Bacon Opal , Garwood Candice L.
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) has created a variety of challenges for health care professionals, including ambulatory care clinical pharmacists. High‐quality remote and minimal‐contact care has become a necessity. Ambulatory care clinical pharmacists around the nation have adjusted their practice. In many cases, this included implementation of telehealth programs for comprehensive medication management. The redesign of ambulatory care Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experiences (APPE) also required quick adaptation. In this paper, we describe the clinical practice and experiential education challenges encountered by an ambulatory care clinical pharmacist workgroup in a COVID‐19 “hotspot,” with an emphasis on solutions and guidance. We discuss how to adapt ambulatory care clinical pharmacy practices including methods of minimal‐contact care, reimbursement opportunities, tracking outcomes, and restructuring ambulatory care APPE. As ambulatory care clinical pharmacists continue to expand the services they provide in response to COVID‐19, we also describe opportunities to promote pharmacists as providers during times of pandemic and into the future.
The early effects of uninephrectomy on rat kidney metabolic state using optical imaging
Authors: Mehrvar Shima , Foomani Farnaz H. , Shimada Satoshi , Yang Chun , Zheleznova Nadezhda N. , Mostaghimi Soudeh , Cowley Allen W. , Ranji Mahsa
Published: May 2020

Uninephrectomy (UNX) is known to result in structural and metabolic changes to the remaining kidney, although it is uncertain if this alters the mitochondrial redox state and how soon such changes may occur. A custom‐designed fluorescence cryo‐imaging technique was used to quantitatively assess the effect of UNX by measuring the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) in the remaining kidney. Kidneys were snap‐frozen 3 days following UNX, and the intrinsic fluorescence of NADH and FAD were optically acquired. The 3D images were created to characterize the NADH/FAD redox ratios (RR) of the right kidneys, which underwent UNX and the remaining kidneys 3 days following UNX. Both the NADPH‐oxidases (Nox2 and Nox4) and the mitochondria are the main sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in tubular epithelial cells. Responses to the UNX were obtained in kidneys of normal Sprague Dawley (SD) rats, Dahl salt‐sensitive (SS) rats and SS rats in which NADPH‐oxidase isoform 4 (Nox4) was knocked out (SSNox4−/−). The results found that each of the strains exhibited similar increase in kidney weights averaging 17% after 3 days of UNX. SD and SSNox4−/−rats both exhibited global reductions of the RR (P < .05) with a similar tendency observed in SS rats (P < .08), indicating increased ROS production. The unexpected reduction of the RR in the remnant kidneys of SSNox4−/− rats indicates that mechanisms independent of H2O2 produced from Nox4 may be responsible for this global increase of ROS. We propose that the reduced RR was largely a consequence of enhanced mitochondrial bioenergetics due to increased tubular workload of the remaining kidney. The data indicate that mitochondria become the dominant source of increased ROS following UNX and could represent an important hypertrophic signaling mechanism.
Proposal of a Safe and Effective Study Design for CYP3A‐Mediated Drug‐Drug Interactions
Authors: Rohr Brit Silja , Mikus Gerd
Published: May 2020

Numerous drug‐drug interaction (DDI) trials have to be conducted in healthy volunteers based on current regulatory guidelines. Because the worst‐case scenario of strong cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibitors has to be tested, the results and their validity have to be balanced with the risk to volunteer safety. The use of ketoconazole in clinical DDI studies has been discouraged by regulatory agencies due to an alleged risk of liver injury. In order to reduce the risk to healthy volunteers, we carried out a study with single‐day exposure to each of 6 perpetrator azole fungistatic drugs. They were evaluated regarding their CYP3A inhibition using microdosed midazolam and a limited sampling strategy. Ratios of areas under the concentration‐time curves ranged from 1.93 with isavuconazole to 8.42 with ketoconazole. The highest number of adverse events occurred with voriconazole, followed by ketoconazole; 2 dropouts occurred due to adverse events following itraconazole administration. Literature data on adverse events of azole fungistatic drugs in DDI trials are rare and inconclusive. Only in recent years with the newer drugs are they more precise and reliable. It can be concluded that the duration of preexposure of perpetrator drugs can be reduced to 1 hour before administration of the victim drug. This still can be sufficient to achieve the scientific objectives of the trial with the lowest possible risk.
Proof of a conjecture on the nullity of a graph
Authors: Wang Long , Geng Xianya
Published: May 2020

Let be a finite undirected graph without loops and multiple edges. The nullity of , written as , is defined to be the multiplicity of 0 as an eigenvalue of its adjacency matrix. The left problem of establishing an upper bound for an arbitrary graph in terms of order and maximum degree was recently solved by Zhou et al. Zhou et al proved that for an arbitrary graph without isolated vertices and with order , with maximum degree , the equality holds if and only if is the disjoint union of some copies of , and they posed a conjecture: If is assumed to be connected, the upper bound of can be improved to , and the upper bound is attained if and only if is a cycle with divisible by 4 or a complete bipartite graph with equal size of chromatic sets. The goal of the present paper is to give a proof confirming the conjecture.
Immune reconstitution following umbilical cord blood transplantation: IRES, a study of UK paediatric patients
Authors: Girdlestone John , Raymond Meera , Shaw Bronwen , Tulpule Sameer , Devlia Vikesh R. , Danby Robert , Ahyee Trudy , Saudemont Aurore , Hough Rachael , Veys Paul , Ruggeri Annalisa , Vora Ajay , Marks David I. , Gibson Brenda , Wynn Robert , Madrigal Alejandro , Navarrete Cristina V.
Published: May 2020

To obtain a qualitative as well as quantitative view immune reconstitution following umbilical cord blood (UCB) transplantation of paediatric patients, we utilised a broad panel of flow cytometry markers to monitor the phenotypes of lymphoid and myeloid cells at 1‐12 months post‐transplant. Samples were received from 46 patients with a median age of 3.3 years and survival was 76% at 1 year. Monocytes were at similar or higher median levels than in adult controls at all times tested, with a high CD16+ proportion in the first 3 months. NK cells were also within adult ranges, with a CD56++ high proportion in the first 6 months. B cell recovery was seen from 2 months in most patients and T cells from 3 months, both were delayed with anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) treatment. CD4:CD8 ratios were high in the first 6 months, and the proportion of T cells with recent thymic emigrant and naïve phenotypes rose from 3 months. NK and plasmacytoid dendritic cell numbers remained at reduced levels in patients not surviving to 1 year. Our results can serve as a useful reference for detailed monitoring of immune reconstitution in paediatric recipients of UCB.
Comparison of two self‐sampling methods for human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA testing among women with high prevalence rates
Authors: Kuriakose Santhosh , Sabeena Sasidharanpillai , Damodaran Binesh , Ravishankar N. , Ramachandran Amrutha , Ameen Nurul
Published: May 2020

One major advantage of molecular assays for human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA detection is that these assays can be performed on self‐collected samples unlike cytology or visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). This cross‐sectional study was carried out between March 2017 and April 2019 to compare the diagnostic performance in self‐collected urine and vaginal samples for HPV DNA detection. Viral DNA was extracted from processed samples using a Qiagen viral DNA extraction Kit (QIAamp DNA Mini Kit). To detect four common high‐risk HPV types (16, 18, 31, 45), multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the LCR/E6/E7 region of the HPV genome was performed in ABI 7500 cycler (Applied Biosystems). The negative samples were screened by conventional PCR targeting the L1 capsid region to exclude other HPV types. The overall agreement between the two self‐collecting sampling methods was 64.04% with a κ value of 0.29 pointing towards a fair agreement (P < .01). The sensitivity of HPV DNA detection in urine samples was 57.95% (47.52%, 67.72), and specificity was 84.6% (66.47%, 93.85%) when compared with vaginal samples. The study concludes that self‐collected vaginal HPV DNA testing is more sensitive than unpreserved‐urine samples for HPV DNA detection in a hospital‐based setting.
The urban moisture island phenomenon and its mechanisms in a high‐rise high‐density city
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Song Jiyun , Chan Pak W. , Li Yuguo
Published: May 2020

Previous studies tend to report the effect of rapid urbanization on temperature, but not on humidity. In this study, we aimed to address this research gap by examining diurnal profiles of temperature and humidity in Hong Kong. Our analysis revealed a more significant rising trend in humidity. In addition, our analysis of equivalent temperature revealed that latent temperature (i.e., moisture) contributes more to the aggravation of urban heat stress than does sensible temperature. The average urban air moisture concentration exceeds that in rural areas for both day and night, confirming the existence of an urban moisture island. A new lumped moisture model is developed to predict the hourly urban air humidity using weather data from the operational suburban weather stations, to better understand and quantify the urban moisture environment. The resulting coupled thermal‐moisture model can capture the main characteristics of diurnal profiles of urban air temperature and humidity in Hong Kong. The modelling results demonstrate that weakened city ventilation tends to lead to an increase in urban air moisture. Furthermore, natural surfaces (vegetation and bare soil) reduce urban heat stress by evapotranspiration. It is noteworthy that although the increase in fractions of natural surfaces can lead to more potential moisture sources, the absolute humidity will start to decrease when the fraction of natural surfaces reaches a threshold. This decreasing moisture trend may be attributable to reduced evaporation owing to the decreased surface temperature, reduced anthropogenic moisture and increased ventilation. Besides, the large wall areas in the compact high‐rise areas of Hong Kong function as both sinks and storage sites, contributing to a noticeable diurnal trend in the urban air humidity profile. In brief, the significant urban moisture island phenomenon in Hong Kong may result from enhanced evapotranspiration, restrained moisture sinks, intensive human activities and a weakened wind environment.
Thrombospondin‐2 spatiotemporal expression in skeletal fractures
Authors: Zondervan Robert L. , Jenkins Daniel C. , Reicha John D. , Hankenson Kurt D.
Published: May 2020

Fracture healing is a complex process that relies heavily on the carefully orchestrated expansion and differentiation of periosteal mesenchymal progenitor cells (MSC). Identification of new markers for periosteal MSCs is essential for the development of fracture therapeutics. Expression of the matricellular protein thrombospondin‐2 (TSP2) increases during early fracture healing; however, it is currently unknown what cell population expresses TSP2. Using a TSP2 GFP reporter mouse and a stabilized murine fracture model, we characterized the expression of TSP2 during the inflammatory, soft callus formation, and hard callus formation phases of fracture healing. In addition, using TSP2 GFP positive cells harvested from reporter mouse cells, we characterized the cell population using flow cytometry and colony formation assays. In uninjured diaphyseal bone, we observed TSP2 expression in the cells located along the inner periosteum. We also observed a population of TSP2 expressing cells in undifferentiated regions of early fracture callus and along the periphery of the callus. Later in callus development, TSP2 cells were broadly distributed in the undifferentiated callus, but GFP was not expressed by chondrocytes. Flow cytometry confirmed that the majority of TSP2 expressing cells were positive for traditional murine MSC markers. Our in vitro assays further supported these findings by demonstrating all adherent and colony‐forming cells expressed TSP2. Taken together, our results suggest that TSP2 is expressed by undifferentiated MSCs, but downregulated in chondrocytes. Clinical significance: expression of the matricellular protein TSP2 is a promising new marker to identify MSCs in early fracture healing.
Existence and blow‐up behavior of standing waves for the Gross–Pitaevskii functional with a higher order interaction
Authors: Dinh Van Duong
Published: May 2020

We study the constraint minimization problem related to the Gross–Pitaevskii functional with a higher order interaction

where δ>0,a>0,

and V is a continuous periodic potential. Thanks to the concentration‐compactness principle, we show the existence of minimizers for
with
and δ sufficiently small, where Q is the unique positive radial solution to

The blow‐up behaviors of minimizers for
as δ↘0 are described in details with an additional assumption on the external potential in the case a=a*.
Boundary conditions at a thin membrane for normal diffusion, classical subdiffusion, and slow subdiffusion processes
Authors: Kosztołowicz Tadeusz , Dutkiewicz Aldona
Published: May 2020

We consider three different diffusion processes in a system with a thin membrane: normal diffusion, classical subdiffusion, and slow subdiffusion. We conduct the considerations following the rule:If a diffusion equation is derived from a certain theoretical model, boundary conditions at a thin membrane should also be derived from this model with additional assumptions taking into account selective properties of the membrane. To derive diffusion equations and boundary conditions at a thin membrane, we use a particle random walk model in one‐dimensional membrane system in which space and time variables are discrete. Then we move from discrete to continuous variables. We show that the boundary conditions depend on both selective properties of the membrane and a type of diffusion in the system.
Generalized wavelet quasilinearization method for solving population growth model of fractional order
Authors: Srivastava Hari M. , Shah Firdous A. , Irfan Mohd
Published: May 2020

The primary aim of this study is to introduce and develop a generalized wavelet method together with the quasilinearization technique to solve the Volterra's population growth model of fractional order. Unlike the existing operational matrix methods based on orthogonal functions, we formulate the wavelet operational matrices of general order integration without using the block pulse functions. Consequently, the governing problem is transformed into an equivalent system of algebraic equations, which can be tackled with any classical method. The applicability of the proposed method is demonstrated via an illustrative comparison of the numerical outcomes with those found by other known methods. The experimental outcomes demonstrate that the proposed method is fast, accurate, simple, and computationally reliable.
[6]‐Gingerol Ameliorates ISO‐Induced Myocardial Fibrosis by Reducing Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis through Inhibition of TLR4/MAPKs/NF‐κB Pathway
Authors: Han Xue , Liu Panpan , Liu Miaomiao , Wei Ziheng , Fan Sen , Wang Xiangting , Sun Shijiang , Chu Li
Published: May 2020

Scope

[6]‐Gingerol is one of the primary pungent constituents of ginger. While [6]‐gingerol has many pharmacological effects, its benefits for myocardial fibrosis, including its exact role and underlying mechanisms, remain largely unexplored. The present study is designed to characterize the cardio‐protective effects of [6]‐gingerol in myocardial fibrosis mice and possible underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

Mice are subcutaneously injected with isoproterenol (ISO, 10 mg kg−1) and gavaged with [6]‐gingerol (10, 20 mg kg−1day−1) for 14 days. Pathological alterations, fibrosis, oxidative stress, inflammation response, and apoptosis are examined. In ISO‐induced myocardial fibrosis, [6]‐gingerol treatment decreases the J‐point, heart rate, cardiac weight index, left ventricle weight index, creatine kinase (CK), and lactate dehydrogenase serum levels, calcium concentration, reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and glutathione disulfide (GSSG), and increases levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and GSH/GSSG. Further, [6]‐gingerol improved ISO‐induced morphological pathologies, inhibited inflammation and apoptosis, and suppressed the toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR4)/mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathways.

Conclusion

The protective effect of [6]‐gingerol in mice with ISO‐induced myocardial fibrosis may be related to the inhibition of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, potentially through the TLR4/MAPKs/NF‐κB signaling pathway.
A design of 60‐GHz bandwidth‐enhanced comb‐line array
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Kim Kangwook
Published: May 2020

A diamond‐shape stub is proposed to enhance the bandwidth of a resonant type comb‐line array at 60 GHz. For linear polarization, a vertical slit is adopted and its optimal length is determined. Design graphs for the input impedance, quality factor (Q), and the resonant length of a single cell are presented. A simple demonstration is given that the Q of the array could be reduced by designing a stub having a lower Q. A resonant type comb‐line array is designed based on the design graphs. The performance of the proposed array is measured and compared to the conventional and published comb‐line arrays. The proposed array demonstrates a broader bandwidth, while the gain pattern is the same as that of the conventional comb‐line array.
UHF RFID elastic textile yarn
Authors: Benouakta Sofia , Hutu Florin , Sette Daniele , Duroc Yvan
Published: May 2020

Over the last decade, the wearable electronics has greatly improved and the wearables market is expected to increase exponentially in the next years. Ultra high frequencies (UHF) radio frequency identification (RFID) textile yarns represent one of the most relevant solutions for adding smart functionality into clothes and more generally for any object integrating a textile tag. Among the existing textile yarn solutions, the E‐Thread technology consists on electronics embedded into textile yarn using a micro‐encapsulation method. This technology is the starting point of the work presented in this article. One of the hardest constraints that the RFID yarn should overcome is the robustness against stretching. Thus, the antenna has to be tolerant to the deformation of the associated textile yarn. Unlike the half‐wave dipole antenna used in the current E‐Thread yarn, the proposed solution is based on helical dipole antenna topology because its geometry naturally makes feasible an axial stretching. This study details the manufacturing process as well as the design methodology of the antenna taking into account the RFID context as well as the constraints imposed by the manufacturing process. The impact of the antenna's physical parameters is highlighted in order to provide design guidelines. The helical dipole antenna enables until 16% of axial elongation while the dipole antenna would tear apart.
Identification of complex structures of paintings on canvas by NMR: Correlation between NMR profile and stratigraphy
Authors: Brizi Leonardo , Bortolotti Villiam , Marmotti Giulia , Camaiti Mara
Published: May 2020

Paintings on canvas are complex structures created by superimposing layers of different composition. Investigations on the structure of these artworks can provide essential information on their state of conservation, pictorial technique, possible overpaintings, and in planning a proper conservation plan. Standard methods of investigation consist in sampling a limited number of fragments for stratigraphic analyses. Despite the recognized validity of these methods, they are affected by evident limitations. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) profiling, often named NMR stratigraphy, is an NMR relaxometry technique applied by single‐sided portable devices developed to overcome the disadvantages of microinvasive stratigraphic analyses. The potential of this approach on artworks, including wall paintings and a few examples of painted canvas, is described in the literature.

In this study, NMR profiles of painting on canvas were examined by analyzing transverse relaxation time data by T2 quasi‐continuous distributions and the results compared with standard stratigraphic cross‐sections analysis. Combining signal intensity and T2 quasi‐continuous distributions, the identification of textile, preparatory, and paint layers was enhanced. The diction “NMR stratigraphy” for these inhomogeneous layered artworks is also discussed. Indeed, unlike the stratigraphic cross‐sections, NMR profiles provide information on a volume (flat slice), rather than on a surface, and the collected signal can derive from nonuniform and partially overlapping layers. This study paves the way for extensive investigations on relaxation time quasi‐continuous distributions in various binder/pigment mixtures in order to improve the reliability of NMR profile as an innovative, non–invasive, and nondestructive method for analyzing paintings on canvas.
Plane elasticity problems by barycentric rational interpolation collocation method and a regular domain method
Authors: Zhuang Meiling , Miao Changqing , Ji Siyuan
Published: May 2020

Barycentric rational interpolation collocation method (BRICM) for solving plane elasticity problems with high accuracy is presented. The plane elasticity problems on a circular or rectangular domain can be solved directly by BRICM. Embedded the irregular domain into a regular (circular or rectangular) domain, the governing equations of plane elasticity on regular domain are discretized by the differentiation matrices based on barycentric rational interpolation to form a system of algebraic equations. Discrete boundary conditions are obtained using barycentric rational interpolation. The irregular boundary conditions are imposed by the additional method to form an over‐constraint linear system of algebraic equations. Numerical experiments are presented to illustrate the efficiency and high computing precision of proposed method.
Intermittent Fasting Does Not Uniformly Impact Genes Involved in Circadian Regulation in Women with Obesity
Authors: Zhao Lijun , Hutchison Amy T. , Wittert Gary A. , Thompson Campbell H. , Lange Kylie , Liu Bo , Heilbronn Leonie K.
Published: May 2020

Objective

This study aimed to examine the effects of intermittent fasting (IF) on mRNA levels of peripheral clock genes in skeletal muscle and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in women with obesity.

Methods

Women were randomized to one of two IF protocols and provided with all foods at 100% or 70% of calculated weekly energy requirements for 8 weeks. Breakfast was consumed before a 24‐hour fast, which was initiated on three nonconsecutive days per week. Muscle and SAT biopsies were performed at 8 am after an overnight fast at baseline and at week 8 on a refed day and again following a 24‐hour fast at week 8 for analysis of the mRNA levels of key genes involved in circadian regulation.

Results

A group‐by‐time interaction was observed in Per2 in muscle (F = 3.497, P = 0.044) and SAT (F = 6.686, P = 0.008), but significance was lost upon post hoc adjustment. A time effect was observed in Rorα in muscle, which was decreased by refeeding in both groups (F = 7.225, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

There was no universal effect of IF to alter peripheral clocks, which may be partly because of the alignment of the fasting/feeding cycle with the biological clock. Optimizing intermittent fasting protocols could be important to prevent circadian misalignment in humans.
Frequency and Consistency of Self‐Weighing to Promote Weight‐Loss Maintenance
Authors: Brockmann Andrea N. , Eastman Abraham , Ross Kathryn M.
Published: May 2020

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the roles of frequency and consistency of self‐weighing in promoting weight‐loss maintenance.

Methods

Participants were 74 adults who completed a 3‐month internet‐based weight‐loss program followed by a 9‐month no‐intervention maintenance period. Frequency of self‐weighing was defined as the number of days that participants self‐weighed during the maintenance period via a study‐provided smart scale. Consistency was defined as the number of weeks that participants self‐weighed at a certain frequency, with multiple minimum thresholds examined. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to assess associations among frequency, consistency, and weight change during the maintenance period.

Results

Greater consistency was significantly associated with less weight regain when defined as the number of weeks that participants self‐weighed on ≥6 d/wk or 7 d/wk (P values < 0.05). Contrary to hypotheses, frequency was not associated with weight change (P = 0.141), and there was not a significant interaction between frequency and consistency.

Conclusions

Results demonstrate that consistency of self‐weighing may be more important than total frequency for preventing weight regain after the end of a weight‐loss program. Further, results suggest that a high level of consistency (self‐weighing for ≥6 d/wk or 7 d/wk) may be necessary to promote successful weight‐loss maintenance.
Prenatally detected copy number variants in a national cohort: A postnatal follow‐up study
Authors: Muys Joke , Jacquemyn Yves , Blaumeiser Bettina , Bourlard Laura , Brison Nathalie , Bulk Saskia , Chiarappa Patrizia , De Leener Anne , De Rademaeker Marjan , Désir Julie , Destrée Anne , Devriendt Koenraad , Dheedene Annelies , Duquenne Armelle , Fieuw Annelies , Fransen Erik , Gatot Jean‐Stéphane , Jamar Mauricette , Janssens Sandra , Kerstjens Jorien , Keymolen Kathelijn , Lederer Damien , Menten Björn , Pichon Bruno , Rombout Sonia , Sznajer Yves , Van Den Bogaert Ann , Van Den Bogaert Kris , Vermeesch Joris , Janssens Katrien
Published: May 2020

Objective

Belgian genetic centers established a database containing data on all chromosomal microarrays performed in a prenatal context. A study was initiated to evaluate postnatal development in children diagnosed prenatally with a non‐benign copy number variant (CNV).

Methods

All children diagnosed with a prenatally detected non‐benign CNV in a Belgian genetic center between May 2013 and February 2015 were included in the patient population. The control population consisted of children who had undergone an invasive procedure during pregnancy, with no or only benign CNVs. Child development was evaluated at 36 months using three (3) questionnaires: Ages and Stages Questionnaire Third edition, Ages and Stages Questionnaire Social‐Emotional Second Edition and a general questionnaire.

Results

A significant difference in communication and personal‐social development was detected between children with a reported susceptibility CNV and both children with an unreported susceptibility CNV and the control population. The outcome of children with a particular CNV is discussed in a case‐by‐case manner.

Conclusion

Our postnatal follow‐up project of children with a prenatally detected non‐benign CNV is the first nationwide project of its kind. A higher number of cases for each CNV category is however needed to confirm our findings.
Using the waiting time distribution with random index dates to estimate prescription durations in the presence of seasonal stockpiling
Authors: Bødkergaard Katrine , Selmer Randi M. , Hallas Jesper , Kjerpeseth Lars J. , Pottegård Anton , Skovlund Eva , Støvring Henrik
Published: May 2020

Purpose

A pervasive problem in registry‐based pharmacoepidemiological studies is what exposure duration to assign to individual prescriptions. The parametric waiting time distribution (WTD) has been proposed as a method to estimate such durations. However, when prescription durations vary due to seasonal stockpiling, WTD estimates will vary with choice of index date. To counter this, we propose using random index dates.

Methods

Within a calendar period of a given length, δ, we randomly sample individual index dates. We include the last prescription redemption prior to the index date in the analysis. Only redemptions within distance δ of the index date are included. In a simulation study with varying types and degrees of stockpiling at the end of the year, we investigated bias and precision of the reverse WTD with fixed and random index dates, respectively. In addition, we applied the new method to estimate durations of Norwegian warfarin prescriptions in 2014.

Results

In simulation settings with stockpiling, the reverse WTD with random index dates had low relative biases (−0.65% to 6.64%) and high coverage probabilities (92.0% to 95.3%), although when stockpiling was pronounced, coverage probabilities decreased (2.7% to 85.8%). Using a fixed index date was inferior. The estimated duration of warfarin prescriptions in Norway using random index dates was 131 (130; 132) days.

Conclusions

In the presence of seasonal stockpiling, the WTD with random index dates provides estimates of prescription durations, which are more stable, less biased and with better coverage when compared to using a fixed index date.
Synthesis of thermoplastic curdlan alkyl carbamates having hydrogen bonding ability
Authors: Kawashima Hidehisa , Ozawa Itsuki , Kijima Masashi
Published: May 2020

Rigid and little moldable curdlan, a linear β‐1,3‐glucan having intra‐ and interchain hydrogen bonds, was reacted with several alkyl isocyanates, which gave thermoplastic curdlan alkyl carbamates (CrdC) with degree of substitution about 2. The alkyl carbamation at hydroxy groups in the glucan skeleton effectively broke the interchain hydrogen bonds of curdlan and increased flexibility of CrdC, while the newly formed carbamate moieties could moderately keep the hydrogen bonding ability in CrdC. Elongating the alkyl groups in the carbamate side chains increased solubility in organic solvents and thermoplasticity of CrdC, which enabled to make homogeneous and free‐standing films by both methods of solution‐casting and hot‐pressing.
Role of exercise in managing substance use disorders
Authors: Cabrera Ivan
Published: May 2020

The introduction of physical exercise as part of a comprehensive healthier lifestyle has been shown to improve the mental and physical health of people who use drugs. This article examines the theoretical basis behind this and provides practical advice on how to deliver such interventions.
Redefining the fragipan to improve field recognition and land use relevance
Authors: Drohan P. J , Thompson J. A. , Lindbo D. L , Beaudette D. E , Dadio S. D
Published: May 2020

The fragipan subsoil horizon can be a significant limitation to land use and management because of its ability to perch water, restrict root growth, and reduce available water storage. Recognition of the presence of a fragipan is used to describe some diagnostic horizons (mollic, umbric, cambic) and to identify the limits of the particle size control section when classifying a soil according to the U.S. soil taxonomic system. While soil scientists often disagree on whether fragipan diagnostic criteria are met, they will typically agree that the horizon has fragic soil properties. To potentially improve field identification agreement, we propose that the fragipan be redefined to meet criteria more like fragic soil properties. We also propose to include some current criteria for the fragipan denoting pedogenesis, slaking, and HCl reaction. In addition, we propose a new requirement be added for redoximorphic features above the fragipan as additional evidence of its restrictive nature. Changing the fragipan's definition will do little to alter soil land use interpretations given most interpretations are based indirectly off the effects of the fragipan. Analysis of existing series indicates that our proposal should not remove series now classified with a fragipan but would eliminate some ambiguities in field identification. Whether the fragipan's spatial extent would increase or decrease is dependent on regional mapping efforts.
Magnetic resonance scoring system for assessment of adnexal masses: added value of diffusion‐weighted imaging including apparent diffusion coefficient map
Authors: Hottat N. A. , Van Pachterbeke C. , Vanden Houte K. , Denolin V. , Jani J. C. , Cannie M. M.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To validate prospectively the ADNEX magnetic resonance (MR) scoring system to assess adnexal masses and to evaluate a new, modified ADNEX MR scoring system that incorporates diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) with apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) mapping.

Methods

Between January 2015 and September 2018, 323 consecutive women with adnexal masses diagnosed on transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) underwent standardized MR imaging (MRI) including diffusion and dynamic contrast‐enhanced sequences. Of these, 131 underwent subsequent surgery. For interpretation of the MRI examinations, we applied the five‐category ADNEX MR scoring system, along with a modified scoring system including DWI with ADC mapping. For both scoring systems, a score was given for all adnexal masses. Histological diagnosis was considered as the gold standard and lesions were classified as benign or malignant. The difference between the predictive values for diagnosing malignancy of the classical and modified scoring systems was assessed on the basis of the areas under the receiver‐operating‐characteristics (AUC) curves. The sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing malignancy of each score were also calculated.

Results

Among the 131 women with adnexal mass(es) diagnosed on TVS who underwent MRI and subsequent surgery, the surgery revealed 161 adnexal masses in 126 women; five women had no mass. Histological examination confirmed 161 adnexal masses, of which all had been detected on MRI: 32 malignant tumors, 15 borderline tumors, which were classified as part of the malignant group (n = 47), and 114 benign lesions. The AUC for prediction of a malignant lesion was 0.938 (95% CI, 0.902–0.975) using the classical ADNEX MR scoring system and 0.974 (95% CI, 0.953–0.996) using the modified scoring system. Pairwise comparison of these AUCs revealed a significant difference (P = 0.0032). The sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing malignancy with an ADNEX MR score of 4 or more were 95.5% and 86.6%, respectively, using the classic scoring system, and 95.7% and 93.3%, respectively, using the modified scoring system.

Conclusion

DWI with ADC mapping could be integrated into the ADNEX MR scoring system to improve specificity, thereby potentially optimizing clinical management by avoiding unnecessary surgery. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
A survey of pattern mining in dynamic graphs
Authors: Fournier‐Viger Philippe , He Ganghuan , Cheng Chao , Li Jiaxuan , Zhou Min , Lin Jerry Chun‐Wei , Yun Unil
Published: May 2020

Graph data is found in numerous domains such as for the analysis of social networks, sensor networks, bioinformatics, industrial systems, and chemistry. Analyzing graphs to identify useful and interesting patterns is an important research area. It helps understanding graphs, and hence support decision making. Since two decades, many graph mining algorithms have been proposed to identify patterns such as frequent subgraphs, paths, cliques, and trees. But most of them assume that graphs are static. This simplifying assumption makes it easy to design algorithms but discard information about how graphs evolve. This article provides a detailed survey of techniques for mining interesting patterns in dynamic graphs, which can serve both as an introduction and as a guide to recent advances and opportunities in this research area. The main tasks related to mining patterns in dynamic graphs are reviewed such as discovering frequent subgraphs, evolution rules, motifs, subgraph sequences, recurrent and triggering patterns, and trend sequences. In addition, an overview of strategies and approaches to solve dynamic graph mining problems is presented, and their advantages and limitations are highlighted. Various extensions are also discussed such as to discover patterns in data streams and big data. Finally, the article mentions several research opportunities.

This article is categorized under:

Algorithmic Development > Spatial and Temporal Data Mining

Algorithmic Development > Association Rules
Effective field theory of gravity to all orders
Authors: Ruhdorfer Maximilian , Serra Javi , Weiler Andreas
Published: May 2020

Abstract

We construct the general effective field theory of gravity coupled to the Standard Model of particle physics, which we name GRSMEFT. Our method allows the systematic derivation of a non-redundant set of operators of arbitrary dimension with generic field content and gravity. We explicitly determine the pure gravity EFT up to dimension ten, the EFT of a shift-symmetric scalar coupled to gravity up to dimension eight, and the operator basis for the GRSMEFT up to dimension eight. Extensions to all orders are straightforward.