bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Competency‐based assessment in surgeon‐performed head and neck ultrasonography: A validity study
Authors: Todsen Tobias , Melchiors Jacob , Charabi Birgitte , Henriksen Birthe , Ringsted Charlotte , Konge Lars , von Buchwald Christian
Published: September 2017

Objective

Head and neck ultrasonography (HNUS) increasingly is used as a point‐of‐care diagnostic tool by otolaryngologists. However, ultrasonography (US) is a very operator‐dependent image modality. Hence, this study aimed to explore the diagnostic accuracy of surgeon‐performed HNUS and to establish validity evidence for an objective structured assessment of ultrasound skills (OSAUS) used for competency‐based assessment.

Study Design

A prospective experimental study.

Methods

Six otolaryngologists and 11 US novices were included in a standardized test setup for which they had to perform focused HNUS of eight patients suspected for different head and neck lesions. Their diagnostic accuracy was calculated based on the US reports, and two blinded raters assessed the video‐recorded US performance using the OSAUS scale.

Results

The otolaryngologists obtained a high diagnostic accuracy on 88% (range 63%–100%) compared to the US novices on 38% (range 0–63%); P < 0.001. The OSAUS score demonstrated good inter‐case reliability (0.85) and inter‐rater reliability (0.76), and significant discrimination between otolaryngologist and US novices; P < 0.001. A strong correlation between the OSAUS score and the diagnostic accuracy was found (Spearman's ρ, 0.85; P < P 0.001), and a pass/fail score was established at 2.8.

Conclusion

Strong validity evidence supported the use of the OSAUS scale to assess HNUS competence with good reliability, significant discrimination between US competence levels, and a strong correlation of assessment score to diagnostic accuracy. An OSAUS pass/fail score was established and could be used for competence‐based assessment in surgeon‐performed HNUS.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:1346–1352, 2018
Clinical characteristics of laryngeal versus nonlaryngeal amyloidosis
Authors: Rudy Shannon F. , Jeffery Caroline C. , Damrose Edward J.
Published: September 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Amyloidosis represents a heterogeneous group of disorders marked by abnormal protein formation and deposition. Laryngeal amyloidosis is rare and classically thought to remain isolated with little risk of systemic involvement or associated malignancy. This study sought to further characterize differences in clinical characteristics between patients with laryngeal and nonlaryngeal amyloidosis.

Study Design

Retrospective case‐control study.

Methods

The Stanford Translational Research Integrated Database Environment was searched to identify patients with biopsy‐confirmed laryngeal amyloidosis and patients with amyloidosis without laryngeal involvement on endoscopy. Mann‐Whitney U and χ2 tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Of 865 patients treated for amyloidosis between 1996 and 2016, 22 (2.5%) patients with biopsy‐proven laryngeal amyloidosis were identified. An additional 22 patients with amyloidosis of a different organ and negative laryngoscopy—and therefore without laryngeal amyloidosis—were identified as controls. Compared to these controls with nonlaryngeal amyloidosis, patients with laryngeal amyloidosis were younger (mean age 52.8 years vs. 68.4 years, P < .0006), and 18% had additional organ involvement. Immunoglobulin light‐chain amyloidosis was the most common subtype in both groups of patients. Eighty‐six percent of patients with laryngeal amyloidosis required surgical excision, and of these patients, over 30% required multiple excisions.

Conclusions

There is a significant rate (18%) of multiorgan involvement in patients with laryngeal amyloidosis, which contradicts conventional concepts that this is an isolated disorder. This finding could have a significant impact on the evaluation and management of patients with laryngeal amyloidosis.

Level of Evidence

3b. Laryngoscope, 128:670–674, 2018
Open access megajournals: The publisher perspective (Part 2: Operational realities)
Authors: Wakeling Simon , Spezi Valérie , Creaser Claire , Fry Jenny , Pinfield Stephen , Willett Peter
Published: September 2017

This paper is the second of two Learned Publishing articles in which we report the results of a series of interviews, with senior publishers and editors exploring open access megajournals (OAMJs). Megajournals (of which PLoS One is the best known example) represent a relatively new approach to scholarly communication and can be characterized as large, broad‐scope, open access journals, which take an innovative approach to peer review, basing acceptance decisions solely on the technical or scientific soundness of the article. Based on interviews with 31 publishers and editors, this paper reports the perceived cultural, operational, and technical challenges associated with launching, growing, and maintaining a megajournal. We find that overcoming these challenges while delivering the societal benefits associated with OAMJs is seen to require significant investment in people and systems, as well as an ongoing commitment to the model.
Self‐Assembly of Thermoresponsive Recombinant Silk‐Elastinlike Nanogels
Authors: Isaacson Kyle J. , Jensen Mark Martin , Watanabe Alexandre H. , Green Bryant E. , Correa Marcelo A. , Cappello Joseph , Ghandehari Hamidreza
Published: September 2017

Recombinant silk‐elastinlike protein polymers (SELPs) combine the biocompatibility and thermoresponsiveness of human tropoelastin with the strength of silk. Direct control over structure of these monodisperse polymers allows for precise correlation of structure with function. This work describes the fabrication of the first SELP nanogels and evaluation of their physicochemical properties and thermoresponsiveness. Self‐assembly of dilute concentrations of SELPs results in nanogels with enhanced stability over micelles due to physically crosslinked beta‐sheet silk segments. The nanogels respond to thermal stimuli via size changes and aggregation. Modifying the ratio and sequence of silk to elastin in the polymer backbone results in alterations in critical gel formation concentration, stability, aggregation, size contraction temperature, and thermal reversibility. The nanogels sequester hydrophobic compounds and show promise in delivery of bioactive agents.
Protective property of epoxy coatings containing polyaniline and laminar basalt in neutral, alkaline, and acidic media
Authors: He P. , Wang J.‐X. , Ma Q. , Lu F.‐Y. , Wang Z. , Wang S.‐C.
Published: September 2017

It is very important to develop high performance composite coatings for efficient protection of metals from corrosion. In this work, high performance protection coatings on mild steel using epoxy as matrix containing polyaniline (PANI) and a newly developed laminar basalt (LB) were prepared and characterized. The contact angle, water absorption, adhesion strength, and passive property of the coating were also evaluated. The protection ability of these coatings on mild steel, exposed to 12 wt% sodium chloride (NaCl), 10 wt% sodium hydroxide (NaOH), and 10 wt% hydrochloric acid (HCl) solutions were monitored using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), respectively. In neutral solution, the coating containing both PANI and LB (C‐PANI‐LB) offered very high corrosion protection performance and its impedance at 0.01 Hz was higher than 4.1 × 1010 Ω · cm2 after immersed for 60 days. However, in alkaline or acidic solution, C‐PANI‐LB behaved poorer than pure epoxy coating or PANI contained coatings, which were ascribed to the hydrolysis of LB and deterioration of the epoxy binder in these media.
Framework for assessment of climate change impact on offshore wind energy
Authors: Kulkarni Sumeet , Deo M. C. , Ghosh Subimal
Published: September 2017

A probabilistic framework for evaluating changes in offshore wind potential under a changing climate is presented considering three general circulation models (GCMs), two representative concentration pathways and two statistical downscaling techniques. The analysis was done with respect to three specific locations along the Indian coastline, identified earlier for future offshore energy extraction. The uncertainty among the GCMs was addressed and the choice of an appropriate GCM was made by combining analysis of GCM uncertainty and model reliability. The regional scale wind was derived from the selected GCM using one hard computing method, namely bilinear interpolation and quantile mapping, and one soft method, an artificial neural network. The efficiency of these methods was assessed using certain performance criteria for the historical period and a convergence criterion over the future period. To evaluate wind potential, the GCM output was downscaled from daily to hourly, taking into account the removal of gusts because of long interval averaging. The wind potential for past (1979–2005) and future (2006–2032) time slices was determined using both hard and soft methods as well as two representative concentration pathways. The resulting four outcomes at annual and seasonal scale were compared with the extrapolated trend of past wind potential derived from both GCM and reanalysis data. Finally, the most efficient strategy was evaluated and the actual extractable power was estimated considering a standard power curve. It is concluded that at all the three locations the annual average wind potential will substantially increase, benefitting the offshore industry.
Pulmonary embolism in pregnant patients: Assessing organ dose to pregnant phantom and its fetus during lung imaging
Authors: Rafat Motavalli Laleh , Hoseinian Azghadi Elie , Miri Hakimabad Hashem , Akhlaghi Parisa
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to provide updated radiation dose from diagnostic exams performed for pregnant patients suspected of pulmonary embolism (PE) using the recently developed BREP phantoms of pregnant woman and the fetus. Also to challenge the validity of current recommendations suggest that ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) vs. computed tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA) should be considered for diagnosis of PE in radiosensitive groups such as pregnant women.

Methods

The Monte Carlo calculations involving detailed geometrical simulation of pregnant women and the fetus were performed.

Results

The results showed that when radiation dose to the fetus is of concern, CTPA is more appropriate at early stages causes 50%–97% lower fetal doses for the first two trimesters of pregnancy. While for gestational periods more than 6 months, V/Q SPECT leads to a 15% lower fetal dose and thus, is less hazardous. The fetal dose from CTPA increases with gestational age, while that from V/Q SPECT decreases. Furthermore, the maximum amount of fetal dose is received by fetal skeleton (i.e., on average about 1.8 and 3.9 times larger dose from SPECT and CT, respectively).

Conclusions

V/Q SPECT should not always be preferred for pregnant patients suspected of PE. This finding is in contrast with the guidance to choose the preferred modality based on the maternal effective dose. The reason of this issue was discussed in this paper based on chord length distributions (CLDs). The importance of considering fetal organs separately in MC calculations was also highlighted.
Assessing risk of bias in randomized controlled trials of methylphenidate for children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Rodrigues‐Tartari Raíssa , Swardfager Walter , Salum Giovanni A. , Rohde Luís A. , Cogo‐Moreira Hugo
Published: September 2017

To test how reliable the tool recommend by Cochrane Collaboration for assessing risk of bias systematic reviews of randomized clinical trials is in the context of methylphenidate for children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate a unidimensional model for the 7 indicators, applied to 184 Randomized Clinical Trial (RCTs) within a 2015 Cochrane systematic review titled “Methylphenidate for children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.” A unidimensional model resulted in excellent adequacy indices, but only 2 indicators had very high factor loadings and low measurement errors. In terms of content, the 7 indicators showed poor reliability (ω = 0.642); however, the set of indicators was precise in evaluating studies with a high amount of bias risk. The Cochrane model of risk of bias as it is, exhibited good fit indices but the majority of the items were not reliable to adequately capture risk of bias in the context of clinical trials of methylphenidate for ADHD.
Long‐term pulmonary disease among Swiss childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Kasteler Rahel , Weiss Annette , Schindler Matthias , Sommer Grit , Latzin Philipp , von der Weid Nicolas X. , Ammann Roland A. , Kuehni Claudia E. ,   Swiss Pediatric Oncology Group (SPOG)
Published: September 2017

Background

Pulmonary diseases are potentially severe late complications of childhood cancer treatment that increase mortality risk among survivors. This nationwide study assesses the prevalence and incidence of pulmonary diseases in long‐term childhood cancer survivors (CCS) and their siblings, and quantifies treatment‐related risks.

Methods

As part of the Swiss Childhood Cancer Survivor Study, we studied CCS who were diagnosed between 1976 and 2005 and alive at least 5 years after diagnosis. We compared prevalence of self‐reported pulmonary diseases (pneumonia, chest wall abnormalities, lung fibrosis, emphysema) between CCS and their siblings, calculated cumulative incidence of pulmonary diseases using the Kaplan–Meier method, and determined risk factors using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

CCS reported more pneumonias (10% vs. 7%, P = 0.020) and chest wall abnormalities (2% vs. 0.4%, P = 0.003) than siblings. Treatment with busulfan was associated with prevalence of pneumonia (odds ratio [OR] 4.0, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1–14.9), and thoracic surgery was associated with chest wall abnormalities and lung fibrosis (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.6–10.7 and OR 6.3, 95% CI 1.7–26.6). Cumulative incidence of any pulmonary disease after 35 years of follow‐up was 21%. For pneumonia, the highest cumulative incidence was seen in CCS treated with both pulmotoxic chemotherapy and radiotherapy to the thorax (23%).

Conclusion

This nationwide study in CCS found an increased risk for pulmonary diseases, especially pneumonia, while still young, which indicates that CCS need long‐term pulmonary follow‐up.
Intravenous‐only or Intravenous Transitioned to Oral Antimicrobials for Enterobacteriaceae‐Associated Bacteremic Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Rieger Krista L. , Bosso John A. , MacVane Shawn H. , Temple Zachary , Wahlquist Amy , Bohm Nicole
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To characterize antibiotic regimens utilized for bacteremic Enterobacteriaceae urinary tract infections and assess treatment failure associated with intravenous‐only compared to intravenous transitioned to oral antibiotic treatment.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Settings

Tertiary care academic medical center.

Patients

241 adult patients hospitalized between July 1, 2010, and June 30, 2015, with positive blood and urine cultures with the same Enterobacteriaceae pathogen.

Main Results

Hospital days on antibiotics as well as length of stay were less in the group treated with any oral antibiotics (intravenous/oral, median 5 [IQR 3–7] days vs intravenous‐only antibiotics 6 [4–10] days, p<0.001; length of stay for intravenous/oral 4.6 [3.1–7.8] days vs intravenous‐only 7.1 [4.0–17.5] days, p<0.001). No statistically significant difference was found in the composite outcome of treatment failure in patients who received intravenous‐only antibiotics versus intravenous/oral antibiotics for the treatment of bacteremic urinary tract infections (intravenous‐only 3.8% [95% CI: 1.0–9.4%] failure; intravenous/oral 8.2% [95% CI: 4.1–14.1%] failure; p=0.19).

Conclusions

Intravenous transitioned to oral treatment (intravenous/oral) was associated with a shorter length of stay and fewer hospital antibiotic days compared with intravenous‐only therapy. Transitioning from intravenous to oral antibiotic therapy is a viable treatment option to consider for patients with bacteremic Enterobacteriaceae urinary tract infection.
Proteogenomic Insights into the Intestinal Parasite Blastocystis sp. Subtype 4 Isolate WR1
Authors: Armengaud Jean , Pible Olivier , Gaillard Jean‐Charles , Cian Amandine , Gantois Nausicaa , Tan Kevin S. W. , Chabé Magali , Viscogliosi Eric
Published: September 2017

Blastocystis sp. is known for years as a highly prevalent anaerobic eukaryotic parasite of humans and animals. Several monophyletic clades have been delineated based on molecular data, and the occurrence of each subtype in humans and/or animal hosts has been documented. The genome of several representatives has been sequenced revealing specific traits such as an intriguing 3'‐end processing of primary transcripts. Here, a first high‐throughput proteomics dataset acquired on this difficult‐to‐cultivate parasite is presented for the zoonotic subtype T4 isolate WR1. Amongst the 2766 detected proteins, we highlighted the role of a small ADP ribosylation factor GTP‐binding protein involved in intracellular traffic as major regulator of vesicle biogenesis and a voltage‐dependent anion‐selective channel protein because both were unexpectedly highly abundant. We show how these data may be used for gaining proteogenomics insights into Blastocystis sp. specific molecular mechanisms. We evidenced for the first time by proteogenomics a functional termination codon derived from transcript polyadenylation for seven different key cellular components.
Low cost bifunctional initiators for bidirectional living cationic polymerization of olefins. I. isobutylene
Authors: Nugay Turgut , Keszler Balazs L. , Deodhar Tejal , Nugay Nihan , Kennedy Joseph P.
Published: September 2017

We describe the discovery of novel low cost bifunctional initiators 2,4,7,9‐tetramethyl‐tricyclo[6.2.0.036]deca‐1(8),2,6‐triene‐4,9‐diol (bBCB‐diOH) and 4,9‐dichloro,2,4,7,9‐tetramethyl‐tricyclo[6.2.0.036]deca‐1(8),2,6‐triene (bBCB‐diCl), for living cationic bidirectional polymerization of olefins, for example, isobutylene. bBCB‐diOH was quantitatively synthesized in one step by UV radiation of commercially available diacetyl durene (DAD) and bBCB‐diCl by hydrochlorination of bBCB‐diOH. These molecules, in conjunction with TiCl4 coinitiator, initiate the living polymerization of isobutylene. Livingness was demonstrated by linear conversion versus molecular weight (MW) plots and narrow MW distributions. Polymerizations are slower than those initiated by the universally used “hindered” bifunctional initiator 5‐tert‐butyl‐1,3‐bis(1‐chloro‐1‐methyl)benzene and are suitable for rate studies. Herein, we report the synthesis, by the use of bBCB‐diCl, of relatively low MW (Mn < 3000 g mol−1) allyl‐telechelic polyisobutylene (PIB) used for the synthesis of PIB‐based polyurethanes and that of relatively high MW (Mn > 30,000) living PIB telechelics for the synthesis of thermoplastic elastomers. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3716–3724
Statistical copolymers of N‐vinylpyrrolidone and 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate via RAFT: Monomer reactivity ratios, thermal properties, and kinetics of thermal decomposition
Authors: Roka Nikoletta , Kokkorogianni Olga , Pitsikalis Marinos
Published: September 2017

Statistical copolymers of N‐vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) with 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) were prepared by Reversible Addition‐Fragmentation chain Transfer Polymerization (RAFT), employing three different RAFT agents: [(O‐ethylxanthyl)methyl]benzene, [1‐(O‐ethylxanthyl)ethyl]benzene, and O‐ethyl S‐(phthalimidylmethyl) xanthate. The reactivity ratios were estimated using the Fineman‐Ross, inverted Fineman‐Ross, Kelen‐Tüdos, and extended Kelen‐Tüdos graphical methods, along with the computer program COPOINT. Structural parameters of the copolymers were obtained by calculating the dyad sequence fractions and the mean sequence length. All the methods indicate that the DMAEMA reactivity ratio is much greater than the one of NVP, thus, the statistical copolymers are in fact pseudo‐diblocks. The glass‐transition temperature (Tg) values of the copolymers were measured by Differential Scanning Calorimetry. Furthermore, a systematic and detailed investigation has been done, on the thermal degradation of the copolymers compared with the respective homopolymers, by Thermogravimetric Analysis, within the framework of the Ozawa‐Flynn‐Wall and Kissinger methodologies. Apparently, the thermal stability of the copolymers is influenced by both monomers and by the structure of the thiocarbonylthio end groups due to the RAFT agents. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3776–3787
Correlates of concealment behavior among couples coping with cancer: Actor partner model
Authors: Wertheim Reut , Goldzweig Gil , Mashiach‐Eizenberg Michal , Pizem Noam , Shacham‐Shmueli Einat , Hasson‐Ohayon Ilanit
Published: September 2017

Objectives

Contextual self‐concealment in the psychooncology literature has been found to be associated with elevated distress. The current study aimed to understand the dyadic relationships of an individual's perception of spousal support and dispositional perspective‐taking with own and partner's levels of self‐concealment behavior, among couples coping with cancer.

Methods

A subsample of 61 heterosexual couples coping with cancer was taken from a large‐scale cross‐sectional study. Patients and their spouses independently completed measures of perceived spousal support, perspective‐taking, and contextual self‐concealment. Dyadic data were analyzed by using the actor‐partner interdependence model both for couples in which the woman was the patient and also for couples in which the man was the patient.

Results

Perceived spousal support negatively predicted contextual self‐concealment, regardless of gender and role. Implications of perspective‐taking for concealment behavior were dependent on role and gender. A female patient's perspective‐taking was associated with a reduction in her own and her spouse's concealment behavior. A male spouse's perspective‐taking was associated with an increase in his own and his spouse's concealment behavior. A female spouse's perspective‐taking negatively predicted patient's concealment behavior, but not her own.

Conclusions

Findings stress the important roles played by spousal support and perspective‐taking in communication patterns between couples affected by cancer. Although the perception of support from one's spouse seems to reduce the need to conceal cancer‐related issues, interventions that focus on couples' communication should address the differential implications of perspective‐taking, as they can lead to either more or less self‐concealment among couples, depending on role and gender.
The influence of plasma operation parameters on synthesis process of copper particles at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Marascu Valentina , Lazea‐Stoyanova Andrada , Stancu Cristian , Dinescu Gheorghe
Published: September 2017

Copper particles, generated using an atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ), are characterized and their generation is studied. The particle synthesis is based on the vaporization/condensation process. In our study, we used a radiofrequency (RF) plasma jet operating in an inert gas and copper bulk metal as source material. The RF power effects on the plasma characteristics are investigated. Correlating the information obtained by optical emission spectroscopy (OES), with visual investigations and with the profilometric electrode surface analyses we identify a RF power threshold when particles starts to be formed. Moreover, the metal vaporization stabilized after a couple of minutes of discharge operation. The influences of RF power over the particles shape, mean size and size distributions are studied.
Inhibition of RhoA/Rho kinase pathway and smooth muscle contraction by hydrogen sulfide
Authors: Nalli Ancy D. , Wang Hongxia , Bhattacharya Sayak , Blakeney Bryan A. , Murthy Karnam S.
Published: September 2017

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays an important role in smooth muscle relaxation. Here, we investigated the expression of enzymes in H2S synthesis and the mechanism regulating colonic smooth muscle function by H2S. Expression of cystathionine‐γ‐lyase (CSE), but not cystathionine‐β‐synthase (CBS), was identified in the colonic smooth muscle of rabbit, mouse, and human. Carbachol (CCh)‐induced contraction in rabbit muscle strips and isolated muscle cells was inhibited by l‐cysteine (substrate of CSE) and NaHS (an exogenous H2S donor) in a concentration‐dependent fashion. H2S induced S‐sulfhydration of RhoA that was associated with inhibition of RhoA activity. CCh‐induced Rho kinase activity also was inhibited by l‐cysteine and NaHS in a concentration‐dependent fashion. Inhibition of CCh‐induced contraction by l‐cysteine was blocked by the CSE inhibitor, dl‐propargylglycine (DL‐PPG) in dispersed muscle cells. Inhibition of CCh‐induced Rho kinase activity by l‐cysteine was blocked by CSE siRNA in cultured cells and DL‐PPG in dispersed muscle cells. Stimulation of Rho kinase activity and muscle contraction in response to CCh was also inhibited by l‐cysteine or NaHS in colonic muscle cells from mouse and human. Collectively, our studies identified the expression of CSE in colonic smooth muscle and determined that sulfhydration of RhoA by H2S leads to inhibition of RhoA and Rho kinase activities and muscle contraction. The mechanism identified may provide novel therapeutic approaches to mitigate gastrointestinal motility disorders.
Higher patient satisfaction with antidepressants correlates with earlier drug release dates across online user‐generated medical databases
Authors: Siskind Scott , Aydin Roland C. , Matta Punit , Cyron Christian J.
Published: September 2017

Studies establishing the use of new antidepressants often rely simply on proving efficacy of a new compound, comparing against placebo and single compound. The advent of large online databases in which patients themselves rate drugs allows for a new Big Data–driven approach to compare the efficacy and patient satisfaction with sample sizes exceeding previous studies. Exemplifying this approach with antidepressants, we show that patient satisfaction with a drug anticorrelates with its release date with high significance, across different online user‐driven databases. This finding suggests that a systematic reevaluation of current, often patent‐protected drugs compared to their older predecessors may be helpful, especially given that the efficacy of newer agents relative to older classes of antidepressants such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) is as yet quantitatively unexplored.
Seasonal variation in effectiveness of the boar‐operated system to deliver baits to wild boar
Authors: Ferretti Francesco , Coats Julia , Cowan Dave P , Pietravalle Stéphane , Massei Giovanna
Published: September 2017

BACKGROUND

Wild boar and feral pig numbers are growing worldwide and have substantial economic and environmental impacts. Bait‐delivered pharmaceuticals such as disease vaccines, toxicants and contraceptives are advocated to mitigate these impacts. Effective campaigns based on these pharmaceuticals rely on optimising the target species' bait uptake, which may differ between seasons. We investigated seasonal differences in the use of Boar‐Operated Systems (BOSs) by wild boar and non‐target species in an English woodland.

RESULTS

In a pre‐trial phase (BOS left open), wild boar, wild mammals, birds, livestock and companion animals fed on the peanuts and maize used as bait in the BOS. During the trial (BOS closed), only wild boar consumed the baits. Wild boar visited and fed from a larger number of BOSs in spring than in summer or winter. No aggressive intra‐group interactions were recorded when wild boar fed from the BOSs but adult males were observed to monopolise two BOSs. Group size was highest in spring and bait uptake was lowest in winter.

CONCLUSION

The study confirmed the species‐specificity of the BOS throughout the year and highlighted that, at least in this area, bait uptake by wild boar for baits delivered through the BOS would be maximised in spring. © 2017 Crown copyright. Pest Management Science © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Excitonic and Band‐to‐Band Transitions in Temperature‐Dependent Optical Absorption Spectra of Cu2SnS3 Thin Films
Authors: Aihara Naoya , Araki Hideaki , Tanaka Kunihiko
Published: September 2017

Temperature‐dependent optical absorption spectra from transmittance and reflectance measurements of Cu2SnS3 (CTS) thin films which are promising material for solar cells were investigated. Thin film CTS samples with Cu‐poor, near‐stoichiometric, and Cu‐rich compositions were prepared on glass substrates by thermal co‐evaporation and sulfurization. At low temperature, three band‐to‐band (BB) transitions that are allowed between triple upper valence bands and a single lower conduction band were observed for all samples. The square of the product of the absorption coefficient and the photon energy was plotted to estimate the band gap energy for three bands of the Cu‐poor sample. On the other hand, excitonic (EX) transitions that corresponded to three bands were observed for the Cu‐rich and near‐stoichiometric samples. Temperature‐dependent optical absorption spectra with the triple BB and EX transitions were resolved using a simplified fitting equation with Lorentzian functions as the EX transitions. The band gap, EX transition, and exciton binding energies for the lowest energy band of the Cu‐rich sample were determined to be 0.945 eV, 0.936 eV, and 8.9 meV at 6 K, respectively. In the low‐temperature region, anomalous blue‐shifts of the estimated band gap energy with increasing temperature were obtained for three bands of all samples.
A model‐based conditional power assessment for decision making in randomized controlled trial studies
Authors: Zou Baiming , Cai Jianwen , Koch Gary G. , Zhou Haibo , Zou Fei
Published: September 2017

Conditional power based on summary statistic by comparing outcomes (such as the sample mean) directly between 2 groups is a convenient tool for decision making in randomized controlled trial studies. In this paper, we extend the traditional summary statistic‐based conditional power with a general model‐based assessment strategy, where the test statistic is based on a regression model. Asymptotic relationships between parameter estimates based on the observed interim data and final unobserved data are established, from which we develop an analytic model‐based conditional power assessment for both Gaussian and non‐Gaussian data. The model‐based strategy is not only flexible in handling baseline covariates and more powerful in detecting the treatment effects compared with the conventional method but also more robust in controlling the overall type I error under certain missing data mechanisms. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated by extensive simulation studies and illustrated with an application to a clinical study.
Modeling Bainite Transformation and Retained Austenite in Hot Rolled TRIP Steel by Instantaneous Carbon Enrichment
Authors: Suwanpinij Piyada , Li Xiaoxiao , Prahl Ulrich , Bleck Wolfgang
Published: September 2017

The rate model inherited from Leblond and Devaux's concept has been applied to multiphase transformations in hot‐rolled TRIP steel. The phase fraction is collected from different laboratory scale process simulations, both multi‐pass rolling for repeated recrystallization and single‐pass cycles. The latter is also investigated by in situ synchrotron X‐ray diffraction (XRD) to acquire instantaneous data for the phase fraction and carbon content. The different cycles allow different austenite conditioning inputs for the model to enlarge the range of thermomechanical parameters. Bainite transformation model is a function of the instantaneous average carbon content in the remaining austenite, which is measured from the shift in the 1‐dimensional diffraction peaks. The modeling can map different process windows for a specific required microstructure of TRIP steel. The bainite formation is remarkably favored by low carbon content. But, the promotion of ferrite formation in the former step increases the carbon content dramatically and yields smaller bainite fraction that consequently larger fraction of retained austenite is allowed. A modified Koistinen–Marburger equation has been established from the in situ XRD data to model the martensite formation during the final cooling to reveal the stability of austenite. Above an average carbon content of 1.475 mass%, the retained austenite becomes stable.
Effects of Shear Strain on Orientation Gradients, the Instability of Austenite Diffraction Peak, and Microstructure in Twinning‐Induced Plasticity (TWIP) Steels
Authors: Yang Yong‐Gang , Mi Zhen‐Li , Li Hui , Xu Mei , Jiang Rui‐Ting
Published: September 2017

As automotive steels require high safety standard for absorbing impact energy during vehicle body collision, detailed investigation of deformation behavior at shear strain state of TWIP steels is crucial. The orientation gradients, the instability of austenite diffraction peak, and microstructure of TWIP steel are investigated as a function of shear strain using transmission electron microscopy, electron back‐scatter diffraction, and X‐ray diffraction analyses of interrupted shear specimens. According to microstructural evolution results, both orientation rotation and supplementary twinning system impact the intensities of austenite diffraction peak. The decrease of γ(220) peak intensity occurs at ϵe = 0.49, since the orientations rotate mainly toward the <111> and <001> poles. The reversion of intensity of γ(220) peak happens at ϵe = 1.18, which may be caused by supplementary twinning system. Due to the kinking formed at the twin border region, orientation gradient of matrix in front of twin boundary increases significantly at ϵe = 1.18.
The Effect of a High Al Content on the Variation of the Total Oxygen Content in the Steel Melt during a Secondary Refining Process
Authors: Yoshioka Takanori , Ideguchi Takahiro , Karasev Andrey , Ohba Yasuhide , Jönsson Pär Göran
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study is to clarify the mechanism of low total oxygen (T.O) contents in high‐Al containing steel grades. Steel samples are taken from a ladle during an LF‐RH process, and the compositions of both the steels and inclusions are determined. According to thermodynamic considerations, the low T.O contents of high Al steel grades are due to the low insoluble oxygen contents. Due to the high Al contents in a steel melt, thermodynamic driving forces of the Al2O3modification are lower than those in ordinary Al‐killed steels. Both the low thermodynamic driving force of the Al2O3modification and the inclusion removal from the melts contribute to the low CaO contents in inclusions in high‐Al steel melts. The contact angles of inclusions in high Al steel melts are higher than 90° due to the low CaO content in inclusions. Therefore, the removal tendency of inclusions in high Al steel melts is kept high throughout an LF‐RH process. Due to this high removal tendency, the T.O contents in high Al steel melts decreases remarkably during an LF refining process. Thereafter, they decrease further during the following RH treatment.
RUNX1cRegulates Hematopoietic Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Possibly in Cooperation with Proinflammatory Signaling
Authors: Navarro-Montero Oscar , Ayllon Veronica , Lamolda Mar , López-Onieva Lourdes , Montes Rosa , Bueno Clara , Ng Elizabeth , Guerrero-Carreno Xiomara , Romero Tamara , Romero-Moya Damià , Stanley Ed , Elefanty Andrew , Ramos-Mejia Verónica , Menendez Pablo , Real Pedro J.
Published: September 2017

Runt-related transcription factor 1 (Runx1) is a master hematopoietic transcription factor essential for hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) emergence. Runx1-deficient mice die during early embryogenesis due to the inability to establish definitive hematopoiesis. Here, we have used human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) as model to study the role of RUNX1 in human embryonic hematopoiesis. Although the three RUNX1 isoforms a, b, and c were induced in CD45+ hematopoietic cells, RUNX1c was the only isoform induced in hematoendothelial progenitors (HEPs)/hemogenic endothelium. Constitutive expression of RUNX1c in human embryonic stem cells enhanced the appearance of HEPs, including hemogenic (CD43+) HEPs and promoted subsequent differentiation into blood cells. Conversely, specific deletion of RUNX1c dramatically reduced the generation of hematopoietic cells from HEPs, indicating that RUNX1c is a master regulator of human hematopoietic development. Gene expression profiling of HEPs revealed a RUNX1c-induced proinflammatory molecular signature, supporting previous studies demonstrating proinflammatory signaling as a regulator of HSC emergence. Collectively, RUNX1c orchestrates hematopoietic specification of hPSCs, possibly in cooperation with proinflammatory signaling.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein Promotes Lewis X Stage-Specific Embryonic Antigen 1 Expression Thereby Interfering with Neural Precursor and Stem Cell Proliferation
Authors: Luque-Molina Inma , Khatri Priti , Schmidt-Edelkraut Udo , Simeonova Ina K. , Hölzl-Wenig Gabriele , Mandl Claudi , Ciccolini Francesca
Published: September 2017

The glycoprotein Prominin-1 and the carbohydrate Lewis X stage-specific embryonic antigen 1 (LeX-SSEA1) both have been extensively used as cell surface markers to purify neural stem cells (NSCs). While Prominin-1 labels a specialized membrane region in NSCs and ependymal cells, the specificity of LeX-SSEA1 expression and its biological significance are still unknown. To address these issues, we have here monitored the expression of the carbohydrate in neonatal and adult NSCs and in their progeny. Our results show that the percentage of immunopositive cells and the levels of LeX-SSEA1 immunoreactivity both increase with postnatal age across all stages of the neural lineage. This is associated with decreased proliferation in precursors including NSCs, which accumulate the carbohydrate at the cell surface while remaining quiescent. Exposure of precursors to bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) increases LEX-SSEA1 expression, which promotes cell cycle withdrawal by a mechanism involving LeX-SSEA1-mediated interaction at the cell surface. Conversely, interference with either BMP signaling or with LeX-SSEA1 promotes proliferation to a similar degree. Thus, in the postnatal germinal niche, the expression of LeX-SSEA1 increases with age and exposure to BMP signaling, thereby downregulating the proliferation of subependymal zone precursors including NSCs.
Overlapping Lattice Modeling for concrete fracture simulations using sequentially linear analysis
Authors: Aydin Beyazit B. , Tuncay Kagan , Binici Baris
Published: September 2017

Modeling concrete fracture is important in order to uncover accurately the sources of distress which lead to the damage or failure of structures. Many different numerical approaches have been used in the past employing either a smeared or a discrete cracking approach. Those models have difficulty in capturing the local nature of cracking, as well as the direction of crack propagation. Lattice modeling and peridynamics (PD) are some of the more recent nonlocal fracture simulation tools which possess advantages, such as ease of modeling and accuracy of crack propagation simulations with few key parameters. In this work, we employ an overlapping lattice approach, where the continuum is discretized using truss elements extending over a predefined horizon similar to the concept used in PD with the sequentially linear analysis technique. Simulation results for several reinforced concrete (RC) and un‐RC tests demonstrate the ability to estimate crack propagation directions and widths accurately, with the proposed modeling approach also offering a rather simple and intuitive approach.
Criteria and influencing parameters for the design of piers of semi‐integral bridges
Authors: Gebauer Daniel , Stümpel Marina , von der Haar Christoph , Marx Steffen
Published: September 2017

This article deals with the challenges of semi‐integral construction of long viaducts. The main characteristic of semi‐integral bridges is the monolithic connection of most parts of the substructure with the superstructure. This leads to complex load‐bearing behavior, in which several structural components interact with each other. Because of the longitudinal movement of the superstructure, constraint forces and moments occur in the piers. They induce additional stresses in the structure compared to conventionally supported bridges. An important issue during the design process is the choice of the pier cross section. The stiffness and ductility of the piers influence the constraint moments and failure behavior of the pier. This is the reason why the detailed investigation into the influencing parameters (normal‐force utilization, reinforcement ratio, and width‐to‐height ratio) described in this paper was carried out. In this investigation, the moment–curvature relationship was used and the failure behavior as well as the constraint moments in the structure were evaluated.
Biologically Active Digests from Pumpkin Oil Cake Protein: Effect of Cross‐linking by Transglutaminase
Authors: Popović Ljiljana , Stolić Žužana , Čakarević Jelena , Torbica Aleksandra , Tomić Jelena , Šijački Mirjana
Published: September 2017

The objective of this study was to show that biologically active hydrolysates can be obtained by simulated human gastrointestinal digestion (HGD) of transglutaminase cross‐linked pumpkin oil cake protein (Tg‐C) which was previously reported as a potential functional food additive. A two‐stage in vitro digestion model system (by pepsin and α chymotrypsin and trypsin, simultaneously) was used to simulate the process of HGD on native and Tg‐C major storage pumpkin oil seed/cake protein, cucurbitin (C). The biologically active potential of the digests was evaluated, measuring the angiotensin‐converting‐I enzyme (ACE) inhibitory and anti‐oxidant capacity. The ACE inhibitory activity was determined in both final digests, with IC50 = 0.30 ± 0.04 mg/ml for C and IC50 = 0.28 ± 0.01 for Tg‐C. The anti‐oxidant potency of the examined proteins was enhanced by the digestion process. The 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) radical cation activities and reducing power testing showed that all the hydrolysates act as a radical quencher and reducing agents. Overall, the results showed that the cross‐linking by Tg did not influence the digestion process, as well as having no effect on the biological activity of the hydrolysates. These also indicate that Tg‐C, if used as functional food additive, after food consumption can be digested and become a source of peptides exerting positive effects on human health.
The influence of online images on self‐harm: A qualitative study of young people aged 16–24
Authors: Jacob Nina , Evans Rhiannon , Scourfield Jonathan
Published: September 2017

To date, research on the role of the Internet in self‐harm has focused on young people's interaction via the medium of text, with limited consideration of the effect of images. This qualitative study explores how young people understand and use online images of self‐harm. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a community sample of 21 individuals aged 16–24 living in Wales, UK, with a previous history of self‐harm. Interviewees reported the role of the Internet in normalising young people's self‐harm. Images rather than textual interactions are the primary reason cited for using the Internet for self‐harm purposes. Images invoke a physical reaction and inspire behavioural enactment, with Tumblr, which permits the sharing of images by anonymous individuals, being the preferred platform. Viewing online images serves a vital role in many young people's self‐harm, as part of ritualistic practice. Online prevention and intervention need to attend to the importance of images.
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in a Patient With Traumatic Brain Injury: A Case Presentation
Authors: Omura Jaclyn , Osorio Marisa
Published: September 2017

We present a case of a 17‐year‐old girl who developed premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) after sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), and we review the diagnosis of PMDD. The patient developed symptoms of severe depression surrounding her menses months after sustaining severe TBI and was diagnosed with PMDD by a psychiatrist. She ultimately required antipsychotics for optimal symptom resolution. PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome with symptoms including irritability, anxiety, and nonfatal suicidal behavior. We discuss other potential causes of mood disturbance that are important to screen for after TBI, including depression, anxiety, and hypothalamic‐pituitary axis disorders. Rehabilitation medicine providers need to be aware of PMDD in postpubertal female patients with TBI because it can lead to nonfatal suicidal behaviors.

Level of Evidence

V
Immunosuppressant Medication–Induced Lower Extremity Pain After Combined Liver and Kidney Transplant: A Case Report
Authors: Mohideen Thanzeela Kausar , Wu Hong
Published: September 2017

Calcineurin inhibitors are imperative in the success of a transplanted organ. However, these immunosuppressants can lead to a rare complication known as calcineurin inhibitor–induced pain syndrome, which may not be recognized early and managed appropriately. We present a case of a 35‐year‐old woman who underwent a combined liver/kidney transplant and developed lower extremity pain while being maintained on tacrolimus. This case illustrates a patient with previously reported characteristic clinical features of calcineurin inhibitor–induced pain syndrome in addition to uncharacteristic neuropathic symptoms and imaging findings. The patient was treated successfully with gabapentin, calcitonin nasal spray, and acupuncture. Early recognition of this syndrome can help improve a patient's quality of life.

Level of Evidence

V