bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Unified Analytical Transregional MOSFET Model for Nanoscale CMOS Digital Technologies
Authors: Kalra Shruti , Bhattacharyya Amalendu Bhushan
Published: November 2019

For IC designers, power has always been the main design constraint. Near threshold (moderate inversion) computing is a promising technique to manage power and energy requirements. A modeling framework specific to moderate inversion is developed in literature known as Transregional Mosfet Model (TRM). This paper presents an extension of TRM model by considering the lateral and vertical field dependent mobility of carriers that make it suitable for circuit design at supply voltages not restricted to near threshold voltage. The model proposed is the unified model applicable in all operating regions (weak, moderate, and strong) and all saturation levels from a long channel with negligible effect of velocity saturation to a short channel having extreme velocity saturation. Further, it has been shown that the proposed drain current model can be reduced to unified interpolated expression of EKV model for long channel MOSFET.
Atrial fibrillation risk factor management with a plant‐based diet: A review
Authors: Storz Maximilian Andreas , Helle Paul
Published: November 2019

Atrial fibrillation is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia in the clinical setting affecting approximately 34 million individuals worldwide. The disease is associated with a significant burden of morbidity and mortality resulting from stroke, heart failure, and acute coronary syndrome. Atrial fibrillation is now a major public health problem with tremendous implications on the economy and the world's healthcare systems. Numerous risk factors and clinical conditions that are associated with the development and progression of atrial fibrillation have been identified in the past. Within the last decades, a shift in awareness toward modifiable conditions has been observed and risk factor management has gained significant momentum. In light of this, dietary approaches are of paramount importance. Whole‐food plant‐based diets emphasizing grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits and nuts and excluding most (or all) animal products have recently experienced a significantly increased interest. The purpose of this review is to present evidence suggestive of a plant‐based diet being a valuable tool in atrial fibrillation risk factor management. The effects of a plant‐based diet on both established and emerging risk factors, such as inflammation and subclinical atherosclerosis, are reviewed in this article. A special focus is put on cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors including hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes, and obesity.
The Apoptosis Pathway and CASP8 Variants Conferring Risk for Acute and Overuse Musculoskeletal Injuries
Authors: Seale Kirsten , Burger Marilize , Posthumus Michael , Häger Charlotte K. , Stattin Evalena , Nilsson Kjell G. , Collins Malcolm , September Alison V.
Published: November 2019

Rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures, and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), are examples of chronic (RCT and CTS) and acute (ACL ruptures) musculoskeletal soft tissue injuries. These injuries are multifactorial in nature, with several identified intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. Previous studies have implicated specific sequence variants within genes encoding structural and regulatory components of the extracellular matrix of tendons and/ligaments to predispose individuals to these injuries. An example, includes the association of sequence variants within the apoptotic regulatory gene, caspase‐8 (CASP8) with other musculoskeletal injury phenotypes, such as Achilles tendinopathy. The primary aim of this study was, therefore, to investigate previously implicated DNA sequence variants within CASP8: rs3834129 (ins/del) and rs1045485 (G/C), and the rs13113 (T/A) identified using a whole exome sequencing approach, with risk of musculoskeletal injury phenotypes (RCT, ACL ruptures, and CTS) in three independent studies. In addition, the aim was to implicate a CASP8 genomic interval in the modulation of risk of RCT, ACL ruptures, or CTS. It was found that the AA genotype of CASP8 rs13113 (T/A) was independently associated with increased risk for CTS. In addition, it was found that the del‐C haplotype (rs3834129–rs1045485) was significantly associated with non‐contact ACL ruptures, which is in alignment with previous research findings. Collectively, the results of this study implicate the apoptosis pathway as biologically significant in the underlying pathogenesis of musculoskeletal injury phenotypes. These findings should be repeated in larger sample cohorts and across different populations. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:680–688, 2020
Enhanced Subchondroplasty Treatment for Post‐Traumatic Cartilage and Subchondral Bone Marrow Lesions in a Canine Model
Authors: Oliver Harvey A. , Bozynski Chantelle C. , Cook Cristi R. , Kuroki Keiichi , Sherman Seth L. , Stoker Aaron M. , Cook James L.
Published: November 2019

This study characterizes outcomes associated with subchondroplasty (SCP) versus SCP enhanced with platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) or bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMC) treatment of impact‐induced subchondral bone marrow lesions (BML) using a validated preclinical canine model. With IACUC approval, purpose‐bred research hounds (n = 24) underwent arthroscopic impact injury (40 N) to both medial femoral condyles. At 3 months, functional assessments, arthroscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed. One knee in each dog (n = 24; n = 12 per endpoint) was randomly assigned to SCP with the other knee randomly assigned to SCP + PRP, SCP + BMC or sham injection (control) (n = 8 per group; n = 4 per endpoint). Dogs were evaluated at 6 and 12 months after treatment using functional assessments, radiography, arthroscopy, and MRI and humanely euthanatized at 6 or 12 months after treatment for histologic assessments. At 6 months post‐treatment, comfortable range‐of‐motion (CROM) was higher (p < 0.04) in SCP + PRP and SCP + BMC knees compared with controls. At 1 year post‐treatment, %Total Pressure Index was higher (p = 0.036) in SCP + BMC compared with controls, pain was lower (p < 0.05) in SCP + BMC and SCP + PRP compared with SCP and controls, and CROM was higher (p < 0.05) in SCP + BMC and SCP + PRP compared with SCP and controls. Knees treated with SCP + PRP and SCP + BMC had better (p < 0.05) MRI grades than SCP and controls. No statistically significant differences in arthroscopic or histologic pathology were noted. Clinical significance: Biologics added to SCP treatment may further enhance its beneficial effects by improving range‐of‐motion, pain severity, and limb loading through 1 year after treatment. However, these benefits must be considered alongside cost, logistics, and treatment availability. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:740‐746, 2020
Morphostratigraphy and provenance of Plio‐Pleistocene terraces in the south‐eastern Alpine foreland: the Mislinja and Upper Savinja valleys, northern Slovenia
Authors: Mencin Gale Eva , Jamšek Rupnik Petra , Trajanova Mirka , Bavec Miloš , Anselmetti Flavio S. , Šmuc Andrej
Published: November 2019

This study focuses on the Plio‐Pleistocene fluvial deposits preserved in the terrace staircases in the south‐eastern Alpine foreland of the Mislinja (MV) and Upper Savinja valleys (USV) in northern Slovenia. The area is located at the north‐eastern margin of the Adria microplate, where neotectonic activity is the prevailing driving force for the terrace formation. The aim of this study is to determine the morphostratigraphy and provenance of the Pliocene to Early Pleistocene gravels using geomorphic and clast lithological analysis. The established morphostratigraphic framework encompasses three terraces in the MV and five terraces in the USV. Due to the lack of age‐relevant data, the morphostratigraphy of the MV and USV is based on the results of geomorphic analysis, clast petrography and data from the literature. Low‐level, middle‐level and high‐level terrace groups were tentatively attributed to the Late and Middle Pleistocene, Early Pleistocene–Pliocene and Pliocene, and compared with the traditional Quaternary stratigraphy of the Alpine foreland. The results of the clast lithological analysis revealed major provenance areas. Moreover, the evolution of long‐term drainage from the Miocene onward was inferred, which suggests that the system reached conformity with the present‐day drainage pattern at the Miocene to Plio‐Pleistocene transition. Copyright © 2019 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laparoscopic resection for Bismuth type III and IV hilar cholangiocarcinoma: How to improve the radicality without direct palpation
Authors: Feng Feng , Cao Xuehui , Liu Xueqing , Qin Jianzhang , Zhang Shubin , Li Qiusheng , Liu Jianhua
Published: November 2019

Background

Open surgery for hilar cholangiocarcinoma (HCCA) has already been widely reported and analyzed. However, the laparoscopic technique for treating HCCA remains controversial because of the lack of radicality and poor assessment of the resectability of hilar structures without direct palpation. The aim of this study was to provide detailed surgical procedures and photographs of this technically demanding operation, describe our experience in assessing resectability before and during surgery, and confirm the radicality of laparoscopic resection of Bismuth type III and IV HCCA.

Methods

From November 2016 to November 2018, nine patients received laparoscopic resection of Bismuth type III or IV HCCA in our department.

Results

Laparoscopic right hepatectomy was performed in four patients, and laparoscopic left hepatectomy was performed in five patients. Negative margins were achieved in all patients. Complications were found in two (22.22%) patients, with bile leakage and hepatic insufficiency each in one patient. The patient developing hepatic insufficiency had persistent and ongoing liver failure and finally expired.

Conclusion

The radicality of laparoscopic resection for Bismuth type III and IV HCCA can be technically improved through extended lymphadenectomy, visual assessment of hilar structures, and frozen section techniques.
Positive node‐ratio in curative‐intent treatment for gastric cancer is a strong independent prognostic factor for 5‐year overall survival
Authors: Wohnrath Durval R. , Araujo Raphael L. C.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

This study addressed whether the positive node‐ratio (N‐ratio) for patients who underwent curative‐intent treatment was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival (OS) for gastric adenocarcinoma (GA).

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent gastrectomy for GA with at least 15 harvested nodes were evaluated for 5‐year OS. The best threshold was determined using the area under an receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Univariate and multivariate models were assessed looking for independent prognostic factors for OS.

Results

From 1994 to 2015, 398 consecutive patients were evaluated. The N‐ratio ≥11% had an accuracy of 0.764, the sensitivity of 71.1%, the specificity of 81.7%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 91.7%, and odds ratio (OR) of 11. After multivariate analysis for OS, age ≥70 years (HR 1.44), need for total gastrectomy (HR 1.45), need for extended resection (HR 1.7), and N‐ratio ≥11% (HR 3.7) were unfavorable prognostic factors. D2 lymphadenectomy (HR 0.53) was a protective factor. The median OS according to N‐ratio was 14 months for N‐ratio >11 vs 58 months for N‐ratio <11%.

Conclusion

The N‐ratio ≥11% was an independent negative prognostic factor for patients who underwent treatment for GA with curative intent. The N‐ratio ≥11% presented high specificity, high PPV and high OR for risk of death for 5 years after surgery.
Optimizing Survival Predictions of Hypopharynx Cancer: Development of a Clinical Prediction Model
Authors: Arends Coralie R. , Petersen Japke F. , van der Noort Vincent , Timmermans Adriana J. , Leemans C. René , de Bree Remco , van den Brekel Michiel W.M. , Stuiver Martijn M.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To develop and validate a clinical prediction model (CPM) for survival in hypopharynx cancer, thereby aiming to improve individualized estimations of survival.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of hypopharynx cancer patients. We randomly split the cohort into a derivation and validation dataset. The model was fitted on the derivation dataset and validated on the validation dataset. We used a Cox's proportional hazard model and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) selection. Performance (discrimination and calibration) of the CPM was tested.

Results

The final model consisted of gender, subsite, TNM classification, Adult Comorbidity Evaluation‐27 score (ACE27), body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin, albumin, and leukocyte count. Of these, TNM classification, ACE27, BMI, hemoglobin, and albumin had independent significant associations with survival. The C Statistic was 0.62 after validation. The model could significantly identify clinical risk groups.

Conclusions

ACE27, BMI, hemoglobin, and albumin are independent predictors of overall survival. The identification of high‐risk patients can be used in the counseling process and tailoring of treatment strategy or follow‐up.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:2166–2172, 2020
Treatment strategy of hilar and intraglandular stones in wharton's duct: A 12‐year experience
Authors: Zhao Ya‐Ning , Zhang Ya‐Qiong , Zhang Li‐Qi , Xie Xiao‐Yan , Liu Deng‐Gao , Yu Guang‐Yan
Published: November 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

To suggest a strategy for transoral removal of hilar and intraparenchymal submandibular stones.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation was performed for 514 consecutive patients with hilar and intraparenchymal submandibular stones treated via endoscopy‐assisted surgery from January 2006 to June 2018. Three patients had bilateral stones. The stones were classified as: hilar (type I), posthilar (type II), intraparenchymal (type III), and multiple stones (type IV).

Results

The affected glands included 311 with type I, 84 with type II, 65 with type III, and 57 with type IV stones. Stones were successfully removed in 478 glands (92.5%, 478/517). Main treatment techniques included hilum ductotomy in 311 glands, intraparenchymal ductotomy in 68, submandibulotomy in 14, intraductal retrieval in 74, and hilum ductotomy accompanied by intraductal retrieval in 11. At a mean 40‐months follow‐up of 478 successful cases, clinical outcomes were good in 425, fair in 27, and poor in 26 glands. Postoperative sialograms in 75 stone‐free patients were categorized as: type I, normal (n = 6); type II, ectasia or stenosis in the main duct and no persistent contrast on functional films (n = 44); type III, ectasia or stenosis in the main duct and mild contrast retention (n = 15); and type IV, poor shape of the main duct and evident contrast retention (n = 10). Postoperative sialometry of 32 patients revealed no significant differences of the gland function between the two sides.

Conclusions

Appropriate use of various endoscopy‐assisted approaches helps preserve the gland and facilitates recovery of gland function in patients with different depths of hilo‐parenchymal submandibular stones.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:2360–2365, 2020
Attic retraction pockets: Classification system
Authors: Vijayendra H. , Mahajan Nilesh H. , Vijayendra Vinay , Ramdass Sangeetha
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Although attic retractions have previously been classified into Grades 0 through IV, it is often not possible to assign attic retraction pockets into a single specific category. The present study describes an improved classification system based on otoscopic and endoscopic visualization of the retraction pocket fundus, the ossicular status in the attic, degree of scutal erosion, and the presence or absence of cholesteatoma.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and fifty‐four patients (200 ears) with different grades of attic retraction pockets who were seen by a tertiary referral otology center between August 2015 and July 2018 were selected for this study.

Observations

The new classification system (Grades I, IIa, IIb, IIIa, IIIb, IIIc, IVa, IVb, IVc, and V) was applied to these retraction pockets. Pure tone audiometry was obtained.

Results

All attic retraction pockets could be classified precisely using the new classification system. Forty‐four of 200 (22%) of ears showed Grade I Attic retraction, 18 ears showed Grade IIa (9%), 14 showed Grade IIb (7%), 28 showed Grade IIIa (14%), 12 showed IIIb (6%), 20 showed Grade IIIc (10%), 16 showed grade IVa (8%), 12 showed grade IVb (6%), 28 showed grade IVc (14%), and eight showed grade V (4%) attic retraction pockets.

Grades I, IIa, IIb, IIIa, and IVa had no significant hearing loss. Average hearing loss was 42 dB and 52 dB in Grades IIIb and IIIc, 44 dB and 58 dB in Grades IVb and IVc, and 61 dB in Grade V.

Level of Evidence

5 Laryngoscope, 130: 2034–2039, 2020
Exploring multisensory place experiences through cruise blog analysis
Authors: Buzova Daniela , Cervera‐Taulet Amparo , Sanz‐Blas Silvia
Published: November 2019

The multisensory approach to understanding consumer behavior has received increasing attention as a factor shaping individuals’ perception, attitude, and behavior. However, previous studies have scarcely investigated the role of senses on destination experiences as places of consumption. The aim of the research is to uncover tourists’ meaningful multisensory place perceptions by analyzing cruise travel blogs. The study conducted a thematic content analysis of 248 blog entries on Mediterranean port of call experiences using the text analytics software Leximancer. The results show a convergence between visual, gustatory, olfactory, and haptic impressions, while auditory perceptions are scarce and refer mainly to the presence/absence of noise. Interestingly, unlike past multisensory studies that reported haptic perceptions as the least salient sensory dimension in tourist experiences, the research identified three haptic themes associated with cutaneous, hedonic‐elicited, and somatic touch. The research yields a threefold contribution: (a) It provides empirical evidence for the relevance of multisensory perceptions on tourists’ evaluation of place experiences; (b) a novel methodological approach to assessing sensory impressions is used by analyzing tourists’ freely written online narratives; and (c) the research broadens the scope of existing multisensory literature by assessing urban/coastal travel destination experiences.
Mineralized Supramolecular Hydrogels Bearing Tunable Thermo‐Responsiveness
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Yiming , Wang Jie , Zhao Fang , Xu Zhi , Yuan Zhenyu , Niu Xiaofeng , Li Li , Bai Shengyu , Shi Yulin , Guo Xuhong
Published: November 2019

Although a variety of biomimetic mineralized materials have been created in the lab, the vast majority of these manmade examples lack response to external stimuli. Here, mineralized supramolecular hydrogels with on‐demand thermo‐responsiveness that are formed by a simple, physical crosslinking between amorphous CaCO3 (ACC) nanoparticles and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) are reported. Upon the addition of Na2CO3 solution into a mixture composed of PAA and CaCl2, amorphous ACC nanoparticles are formed in situ and simultaneously crosslinked by PAA chains, giving rise to the mineralized hydrogels. Interestingly, upon tuning the content of the formed ACC, hydrogels with different types of thermo‐responsiveness can be easily obtained, and the transparencies of the resulting hydrogels are dramatically changed during the temperature‐driven phase transitions. As an application, these thermo‐responsive mineralized hydrogels are used to control the exposure of UV light, which is successfully applied to switch fluorescent signals in response to temperature.
LCP1 triggers mTORC2/AKT activity and is pharmacologically targeted by enzastaurin in hypereosinophilia
Authors: Ma Guangxin , Gezer Deniz , Herrmann Oliver , Feldberg Kristina , Schemionek Mirle , Jawhar Mohamad , Reiter Andreas , Brümmendorf Tim H. , Koschmieder Steffen , Chatain Nicolas
Published: November 2019

Hypereosinophilia (HE) is caused by a variety of disorders, ranging from parasite infections to autoimmune diseases and cancer. Only a small proportion of HE cases are clonal malignancies, and one of these, the group of eosinophilia‐associated tyrosine kinase fusion‐driven neoplasms, is sensitive to tyrosine kinase inhibitors, while most subtypes lack specific treatment. Eosinophil functions are highly dependent on actin polymerization, promoting priming, shape change, and infiltration of inflamed tissues. Therefore, we investigated the role of the actin‐binding protein lymphocyte cytosolic protein 1 (LCP1) in malignant and nonmalignant eosinophil differentiation. We use the protein kinase C‐β (PKCβ) selective inhibitor enzastaurin (Enza) to dephosphorylate and inactivate LCP1 in FIP1L1‐platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRA)‐positive Eol‐1 cells, and this was associated with reduced proliferation, metabolic activity, and colony formation as well as enhanced apoptosis and impaired migration. While Enza did not alter FIP1L1‐PDGFRA‐induced signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), STAT5, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation, it inhibited STAT1Tyr701 and AKTSer473 (but not AKTThr308) phosphorylation, and short hairpin RNA knockdown experiments confirmed that this process was mediated by LCP1 and associated mammalian target of rapamycin complex 2 (mTORC2) activity loss. Homeobox protein HoxB8 immortalized murine bone marrow cells showed impaired eosinophilic differentiation upon Enza treatment or LCP1 knockdown. Furthermore, Enza treatment of primary HE samples reduced eosinophil differentiation and survival. In conclusion, our data show that HE involves active LCP1, which interacts with mTOR and triggers mTORC2 activity, and that the PKCβ inhibitor Enza as well as targeting of LCP1 may provide a novel treatment approach to hypereosinophilic disorders.
Hybrid molecules with potential in vitro antiplasmodial and in vivo antimalarial activity against drug‐resistant Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Feng Lian‐Shun , Xu Zhi , Chang Le , Li Chuan , Yan Xiao‐Fei , Gao Chuan , Ding Chao , Zhao Feng , Shi Feng , Wu Xiang
Published: November 2019

Malaria is a tropical disease, leading to around half a million deaths annually. Antimalarials such as quinolines are crucial to fight against malaria, but malaria control is extremely challenged by the limited pipeline of effective pharmaceuticals against drug‐resistant strains of Plasmodium falciparum which are resistant toward almost all currently accessible antimalarials. To tackle the growing resistance, new antimalarial drugs are needed urgently. Hybrid molecules which contain two or more pharmacophores have the potential to overcome the drug resistance, and hybridization of quinoline privileged antimalarial building block with other antimalarial pharmacophores may provide novel molecules with enhanced in vitro and in vivo activity against drug‐resistant (including multidrug‐resistant) P falciparum. In recent years, numerous of quinoline hybrids were developed, and their activities against a panel of drug‐resistant P falciparum strains were screened. Some of quinoline hybrids were found to possess promising in vitro and in vivo potency. This review emphasized quinoline hybrid molecules with potential in vitro antiplasmodial and in vivo antimalarial activity against drug‐resistant P falciparum, covering articles published between 2010 and 2019.
California project to aim for consumer engagement in underserved community
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2019

With an eye toward providing more access to mental health services to underserved groups, a California‐based project plans to make that happen by increasing consumer engagement in outpatient mental health care in their rural, bi‐county community. Project leaders aim to also dispel misconceptions and address stigmas related to behavioral health care.
The examination and modeling of moisture content effect of banana leaves on dielectric constant for remote sensing
Authors: Basyigit Ibrahim Bahadir
Published: November 2019

Remote sensing technology is useful for detecting agricultural and fruit regions. In this way, the world map can be determined in terms of the vegetation canopy. Contrary to this case, the vegetation canopies can also be used in areas such as intelligence and military regions that are required to be hidden and invisible. The use of microwave remote sensing technology is more sensitive to radiation than other methods, so it allows us to have knowledge about the volumetric information of the target object. However, this method is based on obtaining the dielectric properties of the samples. The aim of this paper is to examine the effect of the moisture content on relative dielectric constant and dielectric loss of banana leaves at X‐band as a novelty. In this study, transmission line technique is used to measure dielectric properties of the samples (banana leaves) in 8.2 to 12.4 GHz. The initial natural moisture content of the fresh banana leaves before drying is calculated to be approximately 82%. The moisture content of the banana leaves is dried from about 82% to 40%. As a result, the relative dielectric constant of it decreases with increasing frequency. In addition, increased moisture content increases both real and imaginary parts of dielectric constant. Correspondingly, unlike literature, a model that calculates the relative dielectric constant and dielectric loss value of the banana leaves is obtained. Root mean square error (RMSE) and R‐squared (R2) are calculated to see regression performance of the proposed model.
Elliptical monopole based super wideband fractal antenna
Authors: Singhal Sarthak , Jaiverdhan  , Singh Amit K.
Published: November 2019

An elliptical monopole based third iterative fractal antenna for super wideband applications is investigated in this article. It consists of microstrip line fed three iterations of elliptical monopole in tree shaped manner and modified semielliptical ground plane. It has an impedance bandwidth of 0.65 to 35.61 GHz, that is, ratio bandwidth of 54.78:1. The overall footprint of the antenna is 170 × 150 mm2. A peak realized gain of 6.51 dB with an average gain of 3.24 dB is achieved. The investigated antenna has advantages of miniaturized dimensions, simple geometry, and wider bandwidth over previously reported structures.
Reisolation and NMR characterization of the satratoxins G and H
Authors: Hudson Daniel , Singh A. Jonathan , Lewis Andrew R. , Sulyok Michael , Hinkley Simon F.R.
Published: November 2019

The exquisitely cytotoxic macrolides, satratoxins G and H, have been reisolated from a solvent extract of a rice culture inoculated with Stachybotrys chartarum to be used as high‐purity reference compounds for analytical analyses. Extensive chromatographic separation realized the compounds that were fully recharacterized in two solvents by 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR spectroscopy, revealing some discrepancies in the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data as compared with the previously reported values found in the literature. Detailed spectra are provided in order to aid future identification and dereplication.
Porcine IVF embryo development and estrogen receptors are influenced by the concentration of percoll gradients during sperm selection
Authors: Ohlweiler Lain U. , Mezzalira Joana C. , Mezzalira Alceu
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of three different concentrations of discontinuous gradients of percoll (90/45, 80/40, and 70/35) in the outcome of porcine in vitro fertilization (IVF) and its influence on further embryo development and quality. Embryo viability was assessed by the expression of estrogen receptors (E2R) and cleaved caspase‐3 (CC3). The highest percoll concentration (90/45) resulted in the lowest embryo production (24.9%) in comparison with 80/40 (37.5%) and 70/35 (40.0%), with the production being similar between the two lowest concentrations. The hatching rate for 90/45 (26.2%) was lower than for 80/40 (45.5%), and both were similar to the Group 70/35 (32.9%). The hatched embryos from the concentration 90/45 showed the lowest proportion of E2R expression (3.6%), while the Groups 80/40 (22.6%) and 70/35 (39.3%) had a similar proportion of expression. The live embryos that did not hatch until Day 8 of culture presented a higher CC3 proportion for Group 90/45 (18.3%), in comparison with 80/40 (12.7%) and 70/35 (10.7%), with the latter two being similar. In conclusion, adjustments in percoll concentration used for sperm selection before porcine IVF can improve embryo production and competence for pregnancy recognition and establishment.
Towards the molecular origin of glutamate CEST (GluCEST) imaging in rat brain
Authors: Cui Jing , Zu Zhongliang
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) signals at 3 ppm acquired with high irradiation powers, termed GluCEST, have been suggested as an indicator of glutamate in neural systems. However, amines in proteins may also contribute to the GluCEST signal, but they have been ignored in previous studies. This study aims to investigate the molecular origins and specificity of GluCEST signal in rat brain.

Methods

Dialysis was used to selectively remove small molecules, such as glutamate and other metabolites, from tissue homogenates prepared from rat brain. This approach allowed the specific influence of proteins on GluCEST to be measured. Clean CEST effects were also quantified by a 2‐step analysis, which first used a fitting approach to quantify the asymmetric magnetization transfer effect and an inverse subtraction to remove it, and then combined an apparent exchange‐dependent relaxation method with asymmetric analysis to remove the direct water saturation andT1weighting.

Results

The removal of glutamate and other small metabolites by dialysis decreases the GluCEST signal by approximately 24%, indicating that a major contributor to GluCEST in the brain is amines in proteins under our experimental conditions.

Conclusion

Data from in vivo GluCEST measurements should be interpreted with caution, especially in disorders in which changes in the content or conformation of proteins are expected.
Strong correlation between standing cough test and 24‐hour pad weights in the evaluation of male stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Yi Yooni A. , Keith Christopher G. , Graziano Christopher E. , Davenport Michael T. , Bergeson Rachel L. , Christine Brian S. , Morey Allen F.
Published: November 2019

Aims

We sought to compare in‐office physical exam findings via standing cough test (SCT) versus 24‐hour pad weights among men seeking treatment for postprostatectomy stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods

A retrospective review of a single surgeon database of incontinence procedures was performed. Documentation of SUI severity (grades 0‐4) was completed by SCT preoperatively utilizing the Male Stress Incontinence Grading Scale (MSIGS). All patients had pads per day (PPD) and 24‐hour pad weights obtained. We determined the Spearman's correlation coefficient between these variables.

Results

We identified 104 men who underwent anti‐incontinence surgery (AdVance Sling or artificial urinary sphincter [AUS]). In the sling group (65 patients), nearly all (97%) had minimal incontinence with SCT (MSIGS = 0‐2). In the AUS group (39 patients), most patients (69%) had an MSIGS 3 or 4 with SCT. Spearman's coefficient between quantification of SCT and pad weight for the overall group was ρ = .68 (P < .0001) demonstrating a strong positive correlation. PPD was also strongly correlated with pad weight (ρ = .55, P < .0001). As seen previously, SCT and PPD were correlated (ρ = .47, P < .0001). In a multivariable model predicting pad weight, the effect of SCT was greater than PPD (β = 83 [54‐111], P < .0001 vs 45 [2169], P = .0004).

Conclusions

SCT findings strongly correlate to 24‐hour pad weights in the evaluation of male SUI. The SCT shows promise as a rapid, reliable, noninvasive measure of SUI severity before anti‐incontinence surgery.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice instruments for urinary incontinence: A psychometric review
Authors: Lima Ribeiro Gabriela , Teixeira Moreira Vasconcelos Camila , Silva Gomes Maria Laura , Veras Firmiano Mariana Luisa , Oliveira Batista Oriá Mônica , Gomes Lopes Lia
Published: November 2019

Aims

To analyze the psychometric properties of instruments measure knowledge and/or attitude and/or practice related to urinary incontinence (UI).

Methods

This review was conducted in September 2018 without restrictions regarding language and year of publication. Data sources: MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, SCOPUS, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane, LILACS, and Google. The psychometric properties were evaluated using the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments and the Quality Criteria for Measurement Properties.

Results

A total of seven articles published between 1999 and 2018 were included. The evaluation of the psychometric properties showed that the majority of the instruments presented “excellent” or “good” methodological quality; however, the description of aspects related to the validation stages was inadequate in some studies, causing the quality of the results to be evaluated as “indeterminate” in some properties. This review cannot recommend any questionnaire without reservations; however, the Urinary Incontinence Scales and the Barriers Incontinence Care Seeking Questionnaire presented better evaluations, regarding both methodological quality and the quality of the results.

Conclusion

This review provides a strategy to select the most suitable instrument to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding UI, according to the psychometric properties, guiding their use by researchers in clinical practice.
Association between urinary symptom severity and white matter plaque distribution in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Smith Ariana L. , Weissbart Steven J. , Hartigan Siobhán M. , Bilello Michel , Newman Diane K. , Wein Alan J. , Malykhina Anna P. , Erus Guray , Fan Yong
Published: November 2019

Aims

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by demyelinated white matter plaque throughout the central nervous system. Plaque involvement in regions that regulate micturition may be associated with urinary symptom severity in patients with MS. The aim of this prospective study is to investigate the relationship between cerebral plaque volume (PV), location, and urinary symptoms in women with MS.

Methods

We conducted a case‐control pilot study of women with MS undergoing routine yearly brain MRI. Women were administered the American Urologic Association‐Symptom Index (AUA‐SI) and divided into two groups: severe urinary symptoms (AUA‐SI ≥20) and mild symptoms (AUA‐SI ≤7). PV and location in the brain were determined using a validated automated white matter lesion segmentation algorithm.

Results

This study of 36 women found that the median total PV did not differ between groups. Women with severe urinary symptoms had larger median PV in the left frontal lobe (LFL) and right limbic lobe (RLL) compared with women with mild urinary symptoms. Within the RLL, women with severe symptoms had a larger median PV in the right cingulate gyrus (RCG). There was a moderate correlation between LFL lesion volume and RLL lesion volume with the AUA emptying subscore; however, these regions did not correlate with the storage subscore.

Conclusions

This preliminary study found urinary symptom severity in women with MS is associated with PV in the RCG and LFL, and not total cerebral PV. These findings may explain why disease burden alone is not a predictor of severity or type of voiding dysfunction in patients with MS.
Botulinum toxin A for refractory OAB and idiopathic urinary retention: Can phenotyping improve outcome for patients: ICI‐RS 2019?
Authors: Malde Sachin , Apostolidis Apostolos , Selai Caroline , Rahnama'i Mohammad Sajjad , Marcelissen Tom , Cardozo Linda , Lovick Thelma
Published: November 2019

Aims

Botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) is a well‐established treatment for refractory idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB). It has also been used with short‐term success in treating idiopathic urinary retention. However, efficacy and complication rates are variable and predicting those likely to benefit most from treatment would enable personalization of therapy and optimization of outcomes. At the International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society (ICI‐RS) meeting in 2019 a Think Tank addressed the question of how we can improve the way we phenotype patients undergoing BTX‐A treatment.

Methods

The Think Tank conducted a literature review and expert consensus meeting focussing on how advances in basic science research of the mechanism of action of BTX‐A, as well as assessment of psychological comorbidity, can be translated into clinical practice to improve patient selection for therapy.

Results

Idiopathic OAB and idiopathic urinary retention are heterogenous conditions encompassing several phenotypes with multiple potential pathophysiological mechanisms. Animal models have demonstrated a central nervous system mechanism of action of intravesically injected BTX‐A and this has been confirmed in human functional MRI studies, but whether this tool can be used to predict outcome from treatment remains to be determined. Phenotyping based on psychological comorbidity using validated screening tools should be studied as a way to potentially optimize patient selection for therapy.

Conclusions

Advances in basic science research into the mechanism of action of BTX‐A have improved our understanding of the pathophysiology of OAB and may lead to novel ways to phenotype patients. Psychological assessment is another way in which phenotyping may be improved. Areas for further research are proposed.
In the hands of nurses: A focus group study of how nurses perceive and promote inpatients' needs for physical activity
Authors: Ohlsson‐Nevo Emma , Andersson Gunnel , Nilsing Strid Emma
Published: November 2019

Aims

To describe how nurses perceive and promote inpatients' needs for physical activity during their stay at the ward.

Design

A qualitative descriptive design was employed providing an exploration of how nurses perceive and promote inpatients' need for physical activity.

Methods

Seven semi‐structured focus group discussions were held between November 2016 and February 2017 with 29 nurses in three hospitals in Sweden. Both interaction analysis and content analysis of the data were conducted.

Results

Patients are dependent on nurses' prioritizations and promotions to be sufficiently physically active during their stay at the ward. The external environment and the integration of physical activity affected the promotion of physical activity. The nurses perceived that understanding the patient's expectations was important and that promotion of physical activity was a joint responsibility of patient, relatives and healthcare professionals. The interaction analysis revealed no clear hierarchical pattern as all members in each focus group took initiative to open the discussions. The Registered Nurses contributed with more new ideas.
Numerical analysis of the coupling of free fluid with a poroelastic material
Authors: Cesmelioglu Aycil , Chidyagwai Prince
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a numerical solution of the coupled system of the time‐dependent Stokes and fully dynamic Biot equations. The numerical scheme is based on standard inf‐sup stable finite elements in space and the Backward Euler scheme in time. We establish stability of the scheme and derive error estimates for the fully discrete coupled scheme. To handle realistic parameters which may cause nonphysical oscillations in the pore fluid pressure, a heuristic stabilization technique is considered. Numerical errors and convergence rates for smooth problems as well as tests on realistic material parameters are presented.
A secondary analysis to inform a clinical decision rule for predicting skull fracture and intracranial injury in children under age 2
Authors: Stone Elizabeth L. , Davis Leslie L. , McCoy Thomas P. , Travers Debbie , Van Horn Elizabeth , Krowchuk Heidi V.
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with the risk of closed head injury (CHI) in children under age 2 years with suspected minor head injuries based on age‐appropriate, or near age‐appropriate, mental status on an exam. The study was a secondary data analysis of a public‐use dataset from the largest prospective, multicenter pediatric head injury study found in the current literature. An existing, validated clinical decision rule was examined using a sample of 3,329 children under age 2 to determine whether it, or the individual variables within it, could be utilized alone, or in conjunction with other variables to accurately predict the risk of underlying CHI in this sample. Results indicated that the keys to an accurate triage assessment for children under age 2 with suspected minor head injuries include the ability to identify the specific skull region injured, the ability to assess for the presence and size of any scalp hematoma, the ability to identify signs of altered mental status in this age group, and having access to accurate information regarding the child's age and the details of the injury mechanism. The findings from this study add to the body of knowledge regarding what factors are associated with CHI in children under age 2 with suspected minor head injuries and could be used to inform age‐specific recommendations for children under age 2 in triage, educational resources, and national trauma criteria.
Methods and Risks of Bias in Natural Experiments in Obesity: Opportunities for the Future Informed by a Systematic Review
Authors: Knapp Emily A. , Bennett Wendy L. , Wilson Renee F. , Zhang Allen , Tseng Eva , Cheskin Lawrence J. , Bass Eric B. , Kharrazi Hadi , Stuart Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2019

Objective

This paper promotes rigorous methods and designs currently underutilized in obesity research, informed by a recent systematic review of the methods and risks of bias in studies of policies, programs, and built environment changes for obesity prevention and control.

Methods

To determine the current state of the field, relevant databases from 2000 to 2017 were searched to identify studies that fit the inclusion criteria. Study design, analytic approach, and other details of study methods were abstracted. These findings inform recommendations for obesity researchers and the field as a whole.

Results

Previously identified were 156 natural experiment studies. Most were cross‐sectional (35%), pre‐post single group comparison (31%), or difference‐in‐differences designs (29%). Few used rigorous causal designs such as interrupted time series with more than two time points, propensity score methods, or instrumental variables. The potential relevance for obesity research is discussed, and recommendations for obesity researchers are provided.

Conclusions

To strengthen natural experiment study designs and enhance the validity of results, researchers should carefully consider and control for confounding and selection of comparison groups and consider study designs that address these biases.
Understand Your GAC Filters to Optimize Performance
Authors: Thiel Peta , Knight Adrian
Published: November 2019

When considering whether granular activated carbon is operating as intended, it's important to recognize the complexities of filtration and how system performance can be monitored and evaluated.
Buoyant Media Can Improve Treatment Efficiency
Authors: Ross Richard R. , Baker Gerry , Lucey David
Published: November 2019

Two utilities using clarifiers with heavy media sought to increase water production and reduce losses. By switching to adsorption clarifiers with buoyant media, the plants captured more solids and reduced chemical costs, waste production, and filter backwash frequency.
Evaluation of decentralization experience through political, administrative, and fiscal indicators: The case of Jordan
Authors: Taamneh Mohammad , Rawabdeh Mohammad A. , Abu‐Hummour Anan M.
Published: November 2019

The present study evaluates the decentralization experience in Jordan offering an empirical test of the tripartite model of decentralization that has been developed by Schneider (2003) using descriptive and inferential analyses. The finding indicates that there is a moderate extent of the implementation of decentralization in Jordan with a mean of 3.12 and standard deviation of 0.581. SPSS analysis confirms a moderate degree for each core indicator within Jordanian experience; the mean average values recorded were 3.33, 3.11, and 2.95 for political, financial, and administrative indicators, respectively. As a result, Jordan's local administration essentially remains dependent on the local arms of centralized power. Finally, the implementation of decentralization experience in Jordan is influenced by the position variable of Jordanian civil servants at level (α ≤ .05).
Experimental characterization of the performance of different photovoltaic technologies on water bodies
Authors: Kumar Manish , Kumar Arun
Published: November 2019

Long term performance analysis of different PV technologies under the climatic condition of water bodies helps in the selection of appropriate PV technology for the large scale deployment on water bodies. The objective of the present research is to evaluate the suitability of different PV technologies on water bodies using performance and degradation analysis. Therefore, an experimental setup was designed to analyze the performance and degradation of HIT, Poly‐Si and CdTe PV technologies on the water surface and to compare their performance and degradation with the respective PV technologies deployed on the land surface. The data from experimental setup was measured for over one year duration. Furthermore, the evaporation reduction in PV panels covered water bodies has been experimentally measured. The performance of HIT and Poly‐Si PV panels on the water surface are found to be 0.4% and 2.7% lower than the corresponding land based panels, respectively; whereas the performance of CdTe panel on the water surface is found to be 3.1% higher than corresponding land based panel. The Poly‐Si panel has a degradation of 1.32% on the water surface which is significantly higher than the degradation rate of 0.93% of the corresponding land‐based panel whereas the HIT panels have almost similar degradation of approximately 0.50% in both climatic conditions. Thus, the study concludes that the HIT and CdTe technologies are suitable for water bodies applications. The experimental results show that the PV panel cover on the water bodies has reduced the evaporation loss by about 29% in one year.