bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of levator hiatal overdistension after vacuum and forceps deliveries
Authors: Sainz José A. , González‐Diaz Enrique , Martínez Alicia M. , Ortega Ismael , Fernández‐Fernández Camino , Palacín Ana F. , García‐Mejido José A.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Levator ani avulsion rates after assisted vaginal delivery have been reported in the literature. However, there are no definitive data regarding the association between overdistention and assisted vaginal delivery. Therefore, our aim is to report overdistention rates after assisted vaginal delivery with a postpartum ultrasound examination.

Materials and Methods

This multicenter study involved a retrospective analysis of data from primiparous women (n = 602) who had previously been recruited at three tertiary hospitals between January 2015 and January 2017. Overdistention was assessed at 6 months postpartum using three‐/four‐dimensional transperineal ultrasound. Patients with levator ani muscle avulsion were excluded. Overdistention was defined as a levator hiatal area ≥ 25 cm2 on Valsalva.

Results

Of the 602 primiparous patients, 250 patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria (139 patients who underwent forceps delivery and 111 patients who underwent vacuum delivery) were evaluated. Overdistention occurred in 20% (50 of 250) of these patients. Overdistention was observed for 1% (1/111) of vacuum deliveries and 35.3% (49 of 139) of forceps deliveries. We found an increased risk of overdistention following forceps delivery compared to vacuum delivery, with a crude odds ratio (OR) of 59.9 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 8.1, 442.2) and an adjusted OR (adjusted for maternal age, second‐stage duration, and head circumference) of 17.6 (95% CI: 2.3, 136.7).

Conclusions

Postpartum overdistention occurred for 20% of assisted vaginal deliveries, with an increased risk of overdistention following forceps delivery compared to vacuum delivery.
Quantitative evaluation on oil diffusion mechanisms in nano‐organic‐montmorillonite modified caster oil‐based polyurethane foam for oil/water separation
Authors: Zhou Xinxing , Huang Qiong
Published: January 2020

To improve the oil absorbency of caster oil‐based polyurethane foam, nano‐organic‐montmorillonite (OMMT) was used for the additives. The aim of this study is to evaluate the oil diffusion mechanism and dispersion uniformity of OMMT modified caster oil‐based polyurethane (MPU) using experiments and molecular dynamic simulation. Molecule movement and molecule trajectory of oil was investigated by molecular dynamic simulation and numerical simulation. According to the quantitative analyzing results, the diffusion model was put forward. The average diffusion coefficient of crude oil in 0, 1, 2 wt%, 4, and 6 wt% MPU is 2.4 × 10−4 cm2/s, 2.6 × 10−4 cm2/s, 3.0 × 10−4 cm2/s, 3.2 × 10−4 cm2/s, and 3.3 × 10−4 cm2/s, respectively. It indicated that crude oil appeared gradient in the MPU. The optimal diffusion direction of crude oil is (0, 0, 1) crystal face, and the small particles of crude oil are easy to be adsorbed. The two‐dimensional diffusion trajectory of crude oil is nonlinear. The diffusion model includes the diffusion of crude oil at the interface of oil and polyurethane, surface diffusion and pore diffusion, and pore adsorption. Furthermore, the diffusion model showed that the van der Waals force was the main reason for crude oil diffusion or adsorption. OMMT could improve the ability of oil/water separation of polyurethane.
Preclinical evaluation of the combination of AZD1775 and irinotecan against selected pediatric solid tumors: A Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium report
Authors: Kolb E. Anders , Houghton Peter J. , Kurmasheva Raushan T. , Mosse Yael P. , Maris John M. , Erickson Stephen W. , Guo Yuelong , Teicher Beverly A. , Smith Malcolm A. , Gorlick Richard
Published: January 2020

Introduction

WEE1 is a serine kinase central to the G2 checkpoint. Inhibition of WEE1 can lead to cell death by permitting cell‐cycle progression despite unrepaired DNA damage. AZD1775 is a WEE1 inhibitor that is in clinical development for children and adults with cancer.

Methods

AZD1775 was tested using a dose of 120 mg/kg administered orally for days 1 to 5. Irinotecan was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg for days 1 to 5 (one hour after AZD1775 when used in combination). AZD1775 and irinotecan were studied alone and in combination in neuroblastoma (n = 3), osteosarcoma (n = 4), and Wilms tumor (n = 3) xenografts.

Results

AZD1775 as a single agent showed little activity. Irinotecan induced objective responses in two neuroblastoma lines (PRs), and two Wilms tumor models (CR and PR). The combination of AZD1775 + irinotecan‐induced objective responses in two neuroblastoma lines (PR and CR) and all three Wilms tumor lines (CR and 2 PRs). The objective response measure improved compared with single‐agent treatment for one neuroblastoma (PR to CR), two osteosarcoma (PD1 to PD2), and one Wilms tumor (PD2 to PR) xenograft lines. Of note, the combination yielded CR (n = 1) and PR (n = 2) in all the Wilms tumor lines. The event‐free survival was significantly longer for the combination compared with single‐agent irinotecan in all models tested. The magnitude of the increase was greatest in osteosarcoma and Wilms tumor xenografts.

Conclusions

AZD1775 potentiates the effects of irinotecan across most of the xenograft lines tested, with effect size appearing to vary across tumor panels.
The social and emotional world of gifted students: Moving beyond the label
Authors: Wiley Kristofor R.
Published: January 2020

Students who are identified as gifted have academic, social, and emotional experiences that are informed by both their cognition and their identification. Similarly, highly able students who are overlooked and remain unidentified have extra layers of social and emotional complexity to negotiate. While the label should not uniquely define the treatment of the student, this review of the literature offers some supported themes that might inform service. Research on traditional and contemporary concerns is placed in the context of conceptual and methodological limitations, concluding with recommendations for the practitioner as a beginning to the conversation.
Ion transport mechanisms in salt‐doped polymerized zwitterionic electrolytes
Authors: Keith Jordan R. , Ganesan Venkat
Published: January 2020

Polyzwitterions (polyZIs), macromolecules with repeating ampholytic monomers, are a novel class of materials with attractive properties for battery electrolytes. In this study, we probe the ion transport characteristics and underlying mechanisms in two salt‐doped (Li+‐TFSI−) polyZIs of similar composition with contrasting zwitterion (ZI) ionic organization: pendant monomers organized via backbone‐anion‐cation (B‐ZI−‐ZI+, Motif B) and backbone‐cation‐anion (B‐ZI+‐ZI−, Motif C). Within both Motifs B and C, the counterion of the pendant‐end ZI moiety shows higher mobility. Similarly, when comparing Li+ or TFSI− across motifs, it is seen that the respective pendant‐end counterion possesses higher mobility than its backbone‐adjacent counterpart. Furthermore, when comparing counterions to same‐position ZI moieties, TFSI− is seen to possess higher mobility than Li+ in each case, a result rationalized by invoking the lower interaction strength between the TFSI− and ZI+. Analysis of ion‐transport mechanisms demonstrate that the mobility of countercharges to the pendant‐end ZI moiety correlates with the ion‐association relaxation timescale, similar to ideas noted in polymerized ionic liquids in past studies. However, the mobility of countercharges to the backbone‐adjacent ZI moiety is shown to be correlated with a cage relaxation time, which incorporates the combined effects of frustrated motion due to the presence of the polymer backbone and pendant‐end ZI moiety and the higher mobility in a population of lightly ZI‐coordinated ions. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci. 2020, 58, 578–588
Feasibility of a pediatric long‐term Home Ventilation Program in Argentina: 11 years' experience
Authors: Leske Vivian , Guerdile María J. , Gonzalez Adriana , Testoni Fernanda , Aguerre Verónica
Published: January 2020

Background

Pediatric home ventilation (HV) has increased worldwide. A Home Ventilation Program (HVP) was started in the Pulmonary Department of the “Hospital de Pediatría Prof. Dr. J. P. Garrahan,” Argentina, in 2007. This is the largest Argentine national pediatric tertiary care referral center. Limited studies on pediatric HV from Latin American countries have been published.

Objective

This study describes and analyzes the cohort of children admitted to the HVP during an 11 years period.

Methods

Longitudinal study. Population: all patients (pts) admitted to the HVP between 2007 and 2018. We analyzed demographic and clinical variables, sleep study results, ventilation setting, and start manner collected in a prospective data base.

Results

A total of 244 pts were admitted. Median age at ventilation start was 9.41 (3.47‐14.08) years, 84% of pts had health insurance. The most frequent underlying diseases were neuromuscular disease (43%) and genetic syndromes (23%). Home‐hospital distance was 100‐500 km in 16% of cases and greater than 500 km in 34%. Seventy percent of pts had sleep studies before ventilation initiation. Ventilation was started in our general pediatric ward in 83.6%. Noninvasive ventilation was used in 86.1%. The actual number of pts still on follow up is 133 of 244 (54.5%), 16.8% dropped out, 16.4% were transitioned to adult care, 5.32% resolved their sleep‐disordered breathing, and 5.32% died.

Conclusions

The HVP admitted pts from all the country. Ventilation was started on the basis of clinical and objective sleep measures. This long‐term experience underlines the feasibility of a HVP in an emergent country.
Shock Initiation Microscopy with High Time and Space Resolution
Authors: Bassett Will P. , Johnson Belinda P. , Salvati Lawrence , Nissen Erin J. , Bhowmick Mithun , Dlott Dana D.
Published: January 2020

We describe studies of shock initiation and shock‐to‐detonation transitions in energetic materials using a tabletop shock compression microscope with nanosecond time resolution and micrometer spatial resolution. Planar input shocks with durations of 4–20 ns are produced using 0–4.5 km/s laser‐launched flyer plates. Emphasis is on measurements of temperature, velocities, pressure, and microstructure using photon Doppler velocimetry (PDV), optical pyrometry and high‐speed videography. Techniques are discussed for fabricating disposable shock target arrays of tiny plastic‐bonded explosives (PBX), liquid and powder explosives, and single‐crystal explosives for high‐throughput studies. Optical temperature measurements of shocked triaminotrinitrobenzene (TATB) are discussed. Since TATB is yellow, we developed methods to correct for the blue absorption to obtain more accurate temperatures. Hot spots in shocked polymer‐encased HMX (octahydro‐1,3,5,7‐tetranitro‐1,3,5,7‐tetrazocine) crystals are observed in real‐time, showing a hot spot produced in a collapsing void that ignites a deflagration. Despite the small dimensions of our explosive charges (typically 1 mm diameter and 250 μm length), we produced reproducible detonation states in solid and liquid explosives using short‐duration shocks near the von Neumann spike (VNS) pressure. We show the VNS pressure is associated with a transition to high‐efficiency gas production from the explosives. In studies of NM, prior to detonation, we see reaction originating at hot spots which coalesce to form a superdetonation.
Enhancing Light Outcoupling in Organic Light‐Emitting Devices by Integration of Scattering Electrodes
Authors: Kourkoulos Dimitrios , Patron Christoph , Umbach Thorsten Erich , Umbach Anne Manuela , Meerholz Klaus
Published: January 2020

Limited outcoupling efficiencies are still a big problem in organic light‐emitting devices (OLEDs). In this contribution, a simple and general approach for enhancing the outcoupling efficiency of OLEDs is presented: by using a three‐step process, including electrospray deposition of a sacrificial material (step i), thin metal‐layer deposition (step ii), and elution of the sacrificial material (step iii), scattering metal structures are fabricated that can be used in cavity OLEDs. The integration into green‐emitting vacuum‐processed OLEDs yields in an increased luminous efficiency and external quantum efficiency (EQE) by 30% and 27%, respectively.
Enhancement of Nonlinear Optical and Dielectric Properties of Cu2O Films Sandwiched with Indium Slabs
Authors: Omar Ahmad , Qasrawi Atef F.
Published: January 2020

In this work, the effects of the insertion of indium slabs of thickness 100 nm on the performance of stacked layers of Cu2O are reported. Cu2O/In/Cu2O thin films coated onto ultrasonically cleaned glass substrates are structurally, morphologically, optically, and dielectrically studied. The glassy films of Cu2O display larger, well‐ordered grains in an amorphous sea of Cu2O upon insertion of indium slabs between layers of Cu2O. Optically, the indium slabs increase the light absorbability in the IR region by 12.5 times, narrow the energy bandgap, and widen the energy band tails region. They also enhance the nonlinearity in the dielectric response and increase the dielectric constant values by 2.5 times. In addition, the optical conductivity parameters are obtained from the fittings of the dielectric spectra. The analyses reveal an enhancement in the drift mobility, plasmon frequency, and free carrier density via stacking of the indium layer between layers of Cu2O. The drift mobility and plasmon frequency values reach 232.4 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 3.95 GHz at a reduced hole‐plasmon frequency value of 6.0 × 1014 Hz (2.48 eV). The values are promising as they indicate the applicability of Cu2O/In/Cu2O interfaces in optoelectronics as thin film transistors and electromagnetic wave cavities.
Solution‐Processed Barium Titanate Nonlinear Woodpile Photonic Structures with Large Surface Areas
Authors: Vogler-Neuling Viola Valentina , Savo Romolo , Pohl David , Hendricks Nicholas R. , Lang Lukas , Timofeeva Maria , Schneider Barbara , Richter Felix Ulrich , Timpu Flavia , Monneret Serge , Starsich Fabian , Grange Rachel
Published: January 2020

Three dimensional (3D) nonlinear photonic crystals are one of the potential candidates for enabling photonic circuits. Most of the current top‐down fabrication approaches for such crystals are time consuming and suffer from small surface areas and limitations to specific substrates. Herein, a bottom‐up fabrication technique (UV‐soft nanoimprint lithography) together with solution processing of barium titanate (BaTiO3) nanoparticles is used to create large‐scale 3D nonlinear woodpile photonic crystals. Opposed to other 3D photonic crystals, the woodpile structure can be fabricated layer by layer. This property makes it suitable for roll‐to‐roll fabrication, which can be easily adapted in industry. The prepared photonic crystals with up to eight layers have surface areas of 1.0 cm2. The linear and nonlinear optical behavior of these 3D woodpile structures is characterized. Their transmission stop band lies around 757 nm and a relative linear minimum transmission of 48.4% for a four‐layer sample is obtained. Images of diffraction patterns together with polarization‐dependent second harmonic generation measurements prove a cubic photonic crystal structure in the linear and nonlinear regime. In addition to second‐order nonlinearity, BaTiO3 exhibits electro‐optic, elasto‐optic, and thermo‐optic effects. Therefore, it is especially suited for future active photonic crystal applications.
Characterization of Surface and Heterointerface of Cu2ZnSn1–xGexSe4 for Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Nagai Takehiko , Kim Shinho , Tampo Hitoshi , Tanigawa Kohei , Iwamoto Yuya , Hamada Hiroya , Ohta Nobuyoshi , Shibata Hajime , Niki Shigeru , Terada Norio
Published: January 2020

This study analyzes the electronic structure of Cu2ZnSn1–xGexSe4 (CZTGSe) surface and band alignments of CdS and CZTGSe using the Ge/(Sn + Ge) composition ratios of x = 0–1 based on inversed, ultraviolet, and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy. The conduction band offsets of the CdS/CZTGSe interface linearly decrease with increasing x, which are so‐called spike conduction band connections, whereas the valence band offsets are observed to be independent of x. Moreover, the hole density near the CZTGSe surface increases with an increase in x; this corresponds to the increase in the measured built‐in‐potential with x. However, the open circuit voltage (VOC) saturates to ≈0.5 V for x over 0.2 in spite of the favorable band alignment and larger built‐in‐potential of x at the interface. External‐quantum‐efficiency spectral analysis shows that the carrier recombination in CZTGSe bulk is suppressed with an increase in x, whereas the recombination near the CZTGSe surface is enhanced. The relationship between these recombination centers, electronic structure, and saturation of VOC is discussed.
Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of scientific evidence from experimental research to clinical application
Authors: Durg Sharanbasappa , Bavage Sachin , Shivaram Shivakumar B.
Published: January 2020

Withania somnifera Dunal, also known as Indian ginseng, has been in use since ancient times in the management of diabetes mellitus (DM). This systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated the efficacy/effectiveness, safety and tolerability of W. somnifera in managing DM. Literature search (published/unpublished) was performed from inception to April 2019 in guidelines recommended databases. A total of 6 in‐vitro, 13 pre‐clinical and 5 clinical studies were included for systematic evaluation. W. somnifera treatment in DM significantly restored the altered levels of blood glucose (experimental data; mean difference, −196.27; 95% confidence interval [−220.96, −171.58]; p < .00001) glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, lipid profile, serum and oxidative stress markers with no safety concerns. The results suggest the potential role of W. somnifera in managing DM. However, the available clinical data are not considerably enough to provide novel and sufficiently robust evidence for the use of W. somnifera in managing DM. To further strength the anti‐diabetic profile of W. somnifera, well‐designed randomized‐controlled trial(s) with a larger sample size and longer duration is warranted with evaluation of its effect primarily on blood glucose, HbA1c and insulin. Future research also needs to elucidate the molecular mechanism(s) of W. somnifera including its active principles in DM.
Predicted impacts of proposed hydroelectric facilities on fish migration routes upstream from the Pantanal wetland (Brazil)
Authors: Medinas de Campos Marcel , Tritico Hans M. , Girard Pierre , Zeilhofer Peter , Hamilton Stephen K. , Fantin‐Cruz Ibraim
Published: January 2020

There are 104 hydroelectric facilities proposed to be installed in the watersheds that feed the Pantanal, a vast floodplain wetland located mostly in Brazil. The Pantanal is host to 23 long‐distance migratory fish species that ascend upland tributaries to spawn. A Geographic Information System was used to predict the impact of hydroelectric dams on potential migration routes for these species. Both anthropogenic (hydroelectric dams) and natural barriers were included in the analysis. Natural barriers were identified by river slope. Critical river slopes of 10 and 25%, above which fish were predicted to be incapable of ascending, were modeled as natural barriers. Based on this model, we show that between 2 and 14% of rivers in the Pantanal watershed are naturally blocked to fish migration. An additional 5 to 9% of rivers are currently blocked due to 35 existing hydroelectric facilities. If all proposed dams are built, the area flooded by new reservoirs will triple and the river kilometers blocked will double, blocking 25 to 32% of the river system to fish migration. The Taquari and Cuiabá River sub‐basins will be the most impacted, each having more than 70% of their rivers blocked. The impact of individual proposed facilities on the loss of migration routes is related to their proximity to existing barriers. Fourteen of the proposed dams are upstream from existing barriers and will therefore not further restrict long‐distance fish migration routes while proposed dams are predicted to close an additional 11,000 to 12,000 km of river channels.
Isopropyl Cresols: Synthesis and Herbicidal Activity
Authors: Wang Jing , Dong Huanhuan , Zhang Hongmei , Dai Songlin , Jiang Jianxin , Zhao Zhendong
Published: January 2020

Isopropyl cresols were prepared by a two‐step process: monoterpene oxidation catalyzed by CrO3 and terpenone isomerization catalyzed by 13X molecular sieves. 5‐Isopropyl‐3‐methylphenol and carvacrol were prepared from 3‐carene, whereas thymol and 4‐isopropyl‐3‐methylphenol were synthesized from α‐pinene. The two reactions followed an identical procedure, but the reaction of 3‐carene was more efficient, benefiting from the three‐membered ring in the structure. 5‐Isopropyl‐3‐methylphenol, thymol, and carvacrol were found to show higher herbicidal activity than glyphosate toward the root growth of barnyard grass. However, they exhibited slightly lower activity in preventing shoot growth. Moreover, 5‐isopropyl‐3‐methylphenol showed higher herbicidal activity than its isomers, which indicates that the relative position of substitutes is significantly associated with the herbicidal activity of isopropyl cresols.
Identification of Potential Inhibitors from Traditional Chinese Medicine for Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 Based on Virtual Screening and Molecular Dynamics Analysis
Authors: Sun Peng , Jiang Chen , Zhou GuiFen , Zhang Qiao Yan , Cheng Gang , Qin LuPing
Published: January 2020

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) is involved in the process of cell proliferation, differentiation and function, especially in bone skeletal development. It is a potential new therapeutic target for osteoporosis and other skeletal‐related diseases. In this study, we aim to identify FGFR1 inhibitors from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) database by the structure‐based virtual screening and MM/GBSA scoring. First, 26450 compounds were filtered by Lipinski rules of five, followed by a hierarchy virtual screen workflow which includes glide docking, ranking, cluster analysis and visual inspection to afford 40 potential compound candidates. Finally, 6 candidates were selected based on MM/GBSA binding energy analysis of the with FGFR1 protein. Our modelling study would provide some clues to the discovery of novel FGFR1 inhibitors as potential therapeutic drugs for osteoporosis. In addition, given multipotency characteristic of FGFR1, these potential inhibitors might provide some reference to other related diseases, such as non‐small cell lung cancer and squamous cell lung cancer.
Unveiling the Importance of Precursor Preparation for Highly Efficient and Stable Phenethylammonium‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Da Seul , Kim Jincheol , Bing Jueming , Zheng Jianghui , Yun Jae Sung , Seidel Jan , Lim Sean , Green Martin A. , Huang Shujuan , Ho-Baillie Anita W. Y.
Published: January 2020

For the fabrication of low‐dimensional perovskite solar cells, understanding the effect of precursor preparation on film formation is critical to achieve high‐quality perovskite film and, therefore, high efficiency in related solar devices. Herein, the two methods to prepare phenethylammonium‐based mixed perovskite precursors with the same chemical composition are reported. These methods are called 1) different phase (DP) and 2) same phase (SP) methods as the former involves the mixing of a 3D perovskite precursor with a 2D perovskite precursor, whereas the latter involves the mixing of quasi‐2D perovskite precursors. The films prepared by these methods are characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, revealing different perovskite structures. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the champion cells by DP and SP methods reaches 19.1% and 18.9%, respectively. Results of the aging test show a dramatic improvement in the stability of SP perovskite devices maintaining 86% of its initial performance after exposure to a relative humidity (RH) 8 ± 5% for 1000 hr and over 80% of its initial PCE after continuous 1 sun illumination (including UV) at RH 70%. The new insights provided by this work are important to design perovskite precursor preparation methods for the best device performance and stability.
Predicting Hadoop misconfigurations using machine learning
Authors: Robert Andrew , Gupta Apaar , Shenoy Vinayak , Sitaram Dinkar , Kalambur Subramaniam
Published: January 2020

Distributed applications are popular for heavy workloads where the resources of a single machine are not sufficient. These distributed applications come with many parameters to tune so that cluster resources can be effectively utilized. However, any misconfiguration of the available parameters may result in suboptimal performance of one or more machines in the cluster. These events may go unnoticed or can result in crashes. This problem of misconfigured parameters has no straightforward solution due to the variety of parameters and vastly different workloads being processed. In this article, we propose a methodology for machine learning‐based detection of misconfigurations. We collect data mined from system resource utilization, Hadoop logs, and job‐level metrics to train a model using decision tree and support vector machine. The models are used to identify whether a set of configuration parameters could result in a crash or a slowdown for a specific workload. The approach explained in this article can be extended to other distributed big data applications, such as Spark, Hive, Pig, and so on.
Discovery of two novel and adjacent QTLs on chromosome B02 controlling resistance against bacterial wilt in peanut variety Zhonghua 6
Authors: Luo Huaiyong , Pandey Manish K. , Zhi Ye , Zhang Huan , Xu Siliang , Guo Jianbin , Wu Bei , Chen Haiwen , Ren Xiaoping , Zhou Xiaojing , Chen Yuning , Chen Weigang , Huang Li , Liu Nian , Sudini Hari K. , Varshney Rajeev K. , Lei Yong , Liao Boshou , Jiang Huifang
Published: January 2020

Key message

Two novel and adjacent genomics and candidate genes for bacterial wilt resistance were identified on chromosome B02 in peanut variety Zhonghua 6 using both traditional QTL mapping and QTL-seq methods.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is an important oilseed crop worldwide. Utilization of genetic resistance is the most economic and effective approach to control bacterial wilt, one of the most devastating plant diseases, in peanut production. To accelerate the genetic improvement of bacterial wilt resistance (BWR) in peanut breeding programs, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping has been conducted for two resistant varieties. In this context, we deployed linkage mapping as well as sequencing-based mapping approach, QTL-seq, to identify genomic regions and candidate genes for BWR in another highly resistant variety Zhonghua 6. The recombination inbred line population (268 progenies) from the cross Xuhua 13 × Zhonghua 6 was used in BWR evaluation across five environments. QTL mapping using both SSR- and SNP-based genetic maps identified a stable QTL (qBWRB02-1) on chromosome B02 with 37.79–78.86% phenotypic variation explained (PVE) across five environments. The QTL-seq facilitated further dissection of qBWRB02-1 into two adjacent genomic regions, qBWRB02-1-1 (2.81–4.24 Mb) and qBWRB02-1-2 (6.54–8.75 Mb). Mapping of newly developed Kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers on the genetic map confirmed their stable expressions across five environments. The effects of qBWRB02-1-1 (49.43–68.86% PVE) were much higher than qBWRB02-1-2 (3.96–6.48% PVE) and other previously reported QTLs. Nineteen putative candidate genes affected by 49 non-synonymous SNPs were identified for qBWRB02-1-1, and ten of them were predicted to code for disease resistance proteins. The major and stable QTL qBWRB02-1-1 and validated KASP markers could be deployed in genomics-assisted breeding (GAB) to develop improved peanut varieties with enhanced BWR.
Tandem peptide receptor radionuclide therapy using 90Y/177Lu-DOTATATE for neuroendocrine tumors efficacy and side-effects - polish multicenter experience
Authors: Kunikowska Jolanta , Zemczak Anna , Kołodziej Maciej , Gut Paweł , Łoń Izabela , Pawlak Dariusz , Mikołajczak Renata , Kamiński Grzegorz , Ruchała Marek , Kos-Kudła Beata , Królicki Leszek
Published: January 2020

Introduction

One of the concepts of theranostics in nuclear medicine is peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT), whereby labeled somatostatin analogs are used for imaging and treating inoperable or disseminated neuroendocrine tumors (NET).

Aim

The aim of the study was to determine the therapeutic efficacy and toxicity of tandem 90Y /177Lu-DOTATATE in patients with disseminated NET in a multicenter trial.

Materials and methods

103 patients with NET G1/G2 treated with 90Y/177Lu-DOTATATE (1:1) with amino-acid infusion for nephroprotection were included in the study.

Results

Overall survival from the disease diagnosis (OS-D) was 127.4 months and from the time of PRRT (OS-T) was 89.5 months. Progression-free survival (PFS) was 29.9 months. An analysis based on the proliferation index revealed a statistically significant impact on PFS and OS-T (PFS G1 vs G2, 59.3 vs 24.3 months; OS-T G1 vs G2, not reached vs 79.9 months). The effect of the primary disease site was also analyzed. For pancreatic vs small bowel vs large bowel, the PFS was 30.8 vs 30.3 vs 40.6 months, the OS-T was 94 vs 61.9 vs 131.2 months and OS-D was 130.4 vs 89.2 vs not reached months, respectively. The 2-year risk of progression was 42%. The probability of 2-year and 5-year overall survival was 89% and 62%, respectively. PRRT was well tolerated by all patients. One patient (1%) developed myelodysplastic syndrome. No other grade 3 and 4 hematological or renal toxicity was observed.

Conclusions

This multicenter trial showed that tandem 90Y/177Lu-DOTATATE is highly effective and safe therapy for patients with disseminated NET.
Incidence, diagnostics and treatment algorithm of nerve lesions after traumatic shoulder dislocations: a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Tiefenboeck T. M. , Zeilinger J. , Komjati M. , Fialka C. , Boesmueller S.
Published: January 2020

Background

The shoulder is the joint most prone to dislocating in the human body and accounts for 45% of all dislocations. In addition to ruptures of the soft tissue and bony injuries, lesions to vascular structures as well as the brachial plexus and its corresponding nerves might occur. With an incidence of up to 65%, nerve lesions are frequently reported after shoulder dislocations. The aim of this study is to obtain information on epidemiology, diagnostics, treatment and duration until remission or late sequelae after shoulder dislocation and concomitant nerve injury in a large patient cohort.

Methods

The patient cohort consisted of 15,739 patients from three centres who had sustained a shoulder dislocation. All patient files were searched for concomitant injury of the brachial plexus or its corresponding nerves. For epidemiological data analysis, demographic data, clinical follow-ups, electromyography and nerve conduction velocity were evaluated.

Results

In total, 60 patients (32 males, 28 females) with a mean age of 60 years (range 19–88 years) met the inclusion criteria. In the majority of patients (n = 51), the trauma mechanism was a trivial fall on the outstretched arm. The most frequent dislocation direction was anterior-caudal in 61.6%, followed by strictly caudal in 16.6%. The brachial plexus was injured in 46 patients (76.6%) and isolated nerve damage was documented in 14 patients (23.3%). Electroneurographic examinations were performed in less than half of the patients (38.3%).

Conclusion

A combination injury of shoulder dislocation and plexus lesion may occur at any age and sometimes has a poor outcome. Electroneurographic examinations should be implemented when managing these patients as a cost-effective and supportive examination.

Level of evidence

Level IV, retrospective study.
An increased bone mineral density is an adverse prognostic factor in patients with systemic mastocytosis
Authors: Riffel Philipp , Schwaab Juliana , Lutz Christopher , Naumann Nicole , Metzgeroth Georgia , Fabarius Alice , Schoenberg Stefan O. , Hofmann Wolf-Karsten , Valent Peter , Reiter Andreas , Jawhar Mohamad
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is characterized by the expansion of clonal mast cells that infiltrate various organ systems. The extent of organ infiltration and subsequent organ damage distinguishes between indolent SM (ISM) defined by a nearly normal life expectancy and advanced SM (AdvSM) defined by poor prognosis. In ISM, measurement of the bone mineral density (BMD) frequently reveals osteoporosis. In contrast, the clinical implication of an increased BMD and osteosclerosis remains unclear.

Methods

BMD was evaluated in 61 patients with mastocytosis (ISM, n = 29, 48%; AdvSM, n = 32, 52%). We correlated the prevalence of osteoporosis, increased BMD and osteosclerosis with clinical parameters, disease variant and prognosis.

Results

Osteoporosis was detected in 11/29 (38%) patients with ISM but only in 2/32 (6%) patients with AdvSM (p = 0.004). An increased BMD was detected in 1/29 (3%) patients with ISM and 24/32 (75%) patients with AdvSM (p < 0.001) while osteosclerosis was only detected in AdvSM patients (16/32, 50%). AdvSM patients with increased BMD had higher levels of bone marrow mast cell infiltration, higher serum tryptase and alkaline phosphatase levels compared to ISM as well as higher number of high-molecular risk mutations (p < 0.05). In addition, we found that the prognosis of AdvSM patients with increased BMD is inferior compared to those without increased BMD (median overall survival 3.6 years versus not reached, p = 0.031).

Conclusions

Osteoporosis is a common feature in ISM but not in AdvSM. An increased BMD is frequently present in AdvSM but not in ISM and is associated with more advanced disease and inferior outcome.
Lung function is associated with minimal EQ-5D changes over time in patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ciaffi Jacopo , van Leeuwen Nina M. , Liem Sophie I.E. , Ninaber Maarten K. , Huizinga Tom W.J. , de Vries-Bouwstra Jeska K.
Published: January 2020

In systemic sclerosis (SSc) therapeutic efforts are often directed to prevent progressive respiratory impairment, but it is unclear to what extent changes in pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are associated with health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The aim of our study is to evaluate how modifications in PFTs contribute to longitudinal variations in HRQoL, assessed through the multidimensional questionnaire EQ-5D, in patients with SSc. We included SSc patients with forced vital capacity (FVC%), diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO%) and EQ-5D assessed in at least two visits. The EQ-5D consists of two parts, a utility score ranging from − 0.59 to 1, and a 0–100 Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Higher values represent better health. The association between changes in FVC% and DLCO%, and evolution of EQ-5D over time, was investigated using generalized estimating equations. Three hundred seventy-eight patients were included, accounting for a total of 1619 measurements. The models showed that improvement in FVC% is significantly associated with increase in both utility score (β = 0.001; 95% CI 0.000 to 0.002; p = 0.003) and VAS over time (β = 0.188; 95% CI 0.111 to 0.264; p < 0.001). Moreover, improvement in DLCO% is longitudinally associated with increase in utility score (β = 0.001; 95% CI 0.000 to 0.002; p = 0.038), while the results for VAS were non-significant (β = 0.020; 95% CI -0.079 to 0.120; p = 0.690). We show that change in PFTs has a significant, although minor, impact on HRQoL as measured by EQ-5D in SSc.Key Points• In patients with SSc, changes in PFTs have a significant, although minor, impact on HRQoL.• In patients with SSc-ILD, the perception of HRQoL is nearly not influenced by changes in pulmonary function.• The use of generic questionnaires might not be sensitive enough to evaluate the impact on quality of life of therapies targeting specific SSc manifestations.
Japan society of clinical oncology/Japanese society of medical oncology-led clinical recommendations on the diagnosis and use of tropomyosin receptor kinase inhibitors in adult and pediatric patients with neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase fusion-positive advanced solid tumors, cooperated by the Japanese society of pediatric hematology/oncology
Authors: Naito Yoichi , Mishima Saori , Akagi Kiwamu , Igarashi Ataru , Ikeda Masafumi , Okano Susumu , Kato Shunsuke , Takano Tadao , Tsuchihara Katsuya , Terashima Keita , Nishihara Hiroshi , Nishiyama Hiroyki , Hiyama Eiso , Hirasawa Akira , Hosoi Hajime , Maeda Osamu , Yatabe Yasushi , Okamoto Wataru , Ono Shigeru , Kajiyama Hiroaki , Nagashima Fumio , Hatanaka Yutaka , Miyachi Mitsuru , Kodera Yasuhiro , Yoshino Takayuki , Taniguchi Hiroya
Published: January 2020

Background

The development of novel antitumor agents and accompanying biomarkers has improved survival across several tumor types. Previously, we published provisional clinical opinion for the diagnosis and use of immunotherapy in patients with deficient DNA mismatch repair tumors. Recently, efficacy of tropomyosin receptor kinase inhibitors against neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) fusion gene-positive advanced solid tumors have been established as the second tumor-agnostic treatment, making it necessary to develop the guideline prioritized for these patients.

Methods

Clinical questions regarding medical care were formulated for patients with NTRK-positive advanced solid tumors. Relevant publications were searched by PubMed and Cochrane Database. Critical publications and conference reports were added manually. Systematic reviews were performed for each clinical question for the purpose of developing clinical recommendations. The committee members identified by Japan Society of Clinical Oncology (JSCO) and Japanese Society of Medical Oncology (JSMO) voted to determine the level of each recommendation considering the strength of evidence, expected risks and benefits to patients, and other related factors. Thereafter, a peer review by experts nominated from JSCO, JSMO, and Japanese Society of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, and the public comments among all Societies’ members was done.

Results

The current guideline describes 3 clinical questions and 15 recommendations for whom, when, and how NTRK fusion should be tested, and what is recommended for patients with NTRK fusion-positive advanced solid tumors.

Conclusion

In the NTRK guideline, the committee proposed 15 recommendations for performing NTRK testing properly to select patients who are likely to benefit from tropomyosin receptor kinase inhibitors.
A novel technique for the assessment of mechanical properties of vascular tissue
Authors: Sanders Stefan N. , Lopata Richard G. P. , van Breemen Lambert C. A. , van de Vosse Frans N. , Rutten Marcel C. M.
Published: January 2020

Accurate estimation of mechanical properties of the different atherosclerotic plaque constituents is important in assessing plaque rupture risk. The aim of this study was to develop an experimental set-up to assess material properties of vascular tissue, while applying physiological loading and being able to capture heterogeneity. To do so, a ring-inflation experimental set-up was developed in which a transverse slice of an artery was loaded in the radial direction, while the displacement was estimated from images recorded by a high-speed video camera. The performance of the set-up was evaluated using seven rubber samples and validated with uniaxial tensile tests. For four healthy porcine carotid arteries, material properties were estimated using ultrasound strain imaging in whole-vessel-inflation experiments and compared to the properties estimated with the ring-inflation experiment. A 1D axisymmetric finite element model was used to estimate the material parameters from the measured pressures and diameters, using a neo-Hookean and Holzapfel–Gasser–Ogden material model for the rubber and porcine samples, respectively. Reproducible results were obtained with the ring-inflation experiment for both rubber and porcine samples. Similar mean stiffness values were found in the ring-inflation and tensile tests for the rubber samples as 202 kPa and 206 kPa, respectively. Comparable results were obtained in vessel-inflation experiments using ultrasound and the proposed ring-inflation experiment. This inflation set-up is suitable for the assessment of material properties of healthy vascular tissue in vitro. It could also be used as part of a method for the assessment of heterogeneous material properties, such as in atherosclerotic plaques.
Understandings and attitudes regarding skill-based and competency-based cultures for learning: a comparative study of Norwegian and New Zealand teacher educators
Authors: Madsen Siri Sollied
Published: January 2020

This is a study of Norwegian and New Zealand teacher educators’ attitudes and understandings of what constitutes learning in schools. Excerpts of curriculum differences between the countries were used as catalysts to gain insight into teacher educators’ espoused theories regarding their understanding of learning, using examples of skill-based and competency-based perspectives on learning. This article describes reactions from Norwegian and New Zealand teacher educators when presented with examples of these two different educational cultures. The majority of both the Norwegian and the New Zealand teacher educators express a critical stance towards a skill-based perspective when asked about the matter. A concern regarding political pressure as an agent of change in educational systems was explicit in both countries. Norway appears to be politically governed top down to a greater degree than New Zealand, and this article examines whether the top-down governing of education can lead to discrepancies between formal curriculum, perceived curriculum, and operationalised curriculum. The findings indicate that such discrepancies exist among Norwegian teacher educators. The results show that inconsistencies of this nature could affect teacher educators’ motivation for their profession and can be perceived to undermine the trust that practitioners have in their professional and pedagogical competencies. This article contributes to broadening the understanding of how the governing of education could affect practitioners at a time of political pressure and requirements for measurable results.
Retrospective Analysis of Plagiaristic Practices within a Cinematic Industry in India – a Tip in the Ocean of Icebergs
Authors: Umamaheswaran Paneerselvam , Ramachandran Sharavan , Sivasubramaniam Shivadas D.
Published: January 2020

Music plagiarism is defined as using tune, or melody that would closely imitate with another author’s music without proper attributions. It may occur either by stealing a musical idea (a melody or motif) or sampling (a portion of one sound, or tune is copied into a different song). Unlike the traditional music, the Indian cinematic music is extremely popular amongst the public. Since the expectations of the public for songs that are enjoyable are high, many music directors are seeking elsewhere to “borrow” tunes. Whilst a vast majority of Indian cinemagoers may not have noticed these plagiarised tunes, some journalists and vigilant music lovers have noticed these activities. This study has taken the initiative to investigate the extent of plagiaristic activities within one Indian cinematic music industry. A list of plagiarised songs was produced by using YouTube® searches for “comparative videos” made by the vigilant music lovers about accused/detected music plagiarism. Some of these individuals were also interviewed to understand their views on this. During the investigation, it was possible to identify a vast number of plagiarised tunes, snippets, or even the full songs. In fact, some of these examples’ dates to 1954, during the era when no one would have noticed plagiarism. The paper would highlight the similarities of these music files. It will also show some examples of the excuses/denial given by the composers and would try to highlight the attitudes of general public towards these types of activities.
Out of Pocket Expenditure for Sick Newborn Care in Referral Hospitals of Nepal
Authors: Sunny Avinash K. , Gurung Rejina , Gurung Abhishek , Basnet Omkar , KC Ashish
Published: January 2020

Background

Almost all preventable neonatal deaths take place in low- and middle-income countries and affect the poorest who have the least access to high quality health services. Cost of health care is one of the factors preventing access to quality health services and universal health coverage. In Nepal, the majority of expenses related to newborn care are borne by the caregiver, regardless of socioeconomic status. We conducted a study to assess the out of pocket expenditure (OOPE) for sick newborn care in hospitals in Nepal.

Methods

This cross-sectional study of hospital care for newborns was conducted in 11 hospitals in Nepal and explored OOPE incurred by caregivers for sick newborn care. Data were collected from the caregivers of the sick newborn on the topics of cost of travel, accommodation, treatment (drugs, diagnosis) and documented on a sick newborn case record form.

Results

Data were collected from 814 caregivers. Cost of caregivers’ stay accounted for more than 40% of the OOPE for sick newborn care, followed by cost of travel, and the baby’s stay and treatment. The overall OOPE ranged from 13.6 to 226.1 US dollars (USD). The median OOPE was highest for preterm complications ($33.2 USD; CI 14.0–226.1), followed by hyperbilirubinemia ($31.9 USD; CI 14.0–60.7), respiratory distress syndrome ($26.9 USD; 15.3–121.5), neonatal sepsis ($ 25.8 USD; CI 13.6–139.8) and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy ($23.4 USD; CI 13.6–97.7).

Discussion for practice

In Nepal, OOPE for sick newborn care in hospitals varied by neonatal morbidity and duration of stay. The largest proportion of OOPE were for accommodation and travel. Affordable and accessible health care will substantially reduce the OOPE for sick newborn care in hospitals.
Selected Clauses of a Copyright Contract in Polish and English in Translation by Google Translate: A Tentative Assessment of Quality
Authors: Trzaskawka Paula
Published: January 2020

The aim of this paper is to carry out a comparative analysis of clauses in Polish and English copyright agreements in respect of their translation by a computer assisted tool—Google Translate, and to assess the quality of such translation. The comparison of parallel texts as a research method has been applied. The research corpora include authentic Polish and English Copyright Agreements. The analysed clauses have been excerpted from the above mentioned Copyright Agreements. The author chose the most standard clauses as well as clauses typical for copyright contracts. As a result of the analysis, translations provided by Google Translate are better in terms of typical clauses but of worse quality in terms of specialised copyright clauses.