bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survey reviews COVID‐19‐based disruptions for students with disabilities
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: September 2020

In the wake of the rapid move to online learning in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the Association on Higher Education And Disability conducted a survey of higher education professionals who work with students with disabilities to better identify the barriers these students have faced. Of those who responded to the survey conducted in the spring and summer of 2020, 94% worked in a disability resource office, and the survey results are the first of three planned data‐collection efforts by AHEAD to detail how institutions are maintaining accessibility for students during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
ADA 2020: Telehealth improves glycaemic control among rural diabetes patients
Authors: Idris Iskandar
Published: September 2020

The intensive use of telehealth improves glycaemic control among rural patients with type 2 diabetes, according to a recent study presented at the American Diabetes Association's 80th Virtual Conference.
ADA 2020: Ertugliflozin shown to significantly reduce heart failure hospitalization.
Authors: Idris Iskandar
Published: September 2020

The SGLT2 inhibitor, Ertugliflozin was shown to be non‐inferior to placebo for reducing cardiovascular events but significantly reduce heart failure hospitalization, according to a trial presented at the American Diabetes Association's 80th Conference.
COVID‐19: An opportunity to make long‐term improvement changes to inpatient diabetes services
Authors: Idris Iskandar
Published: September 2020

The changes to inpatient diabetes services brought about as a result of the current COVID‐19 pandemic may result in long‐term improvement to the outcomes of inpatients with diabetes.
Large‐eddy simulation of subsonic turbulent jets using the compressible lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Noah Khalid , Lien Fue‐Sang , Yee Eugene
Published: September 2020

The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is a powerful technique for the computational modeling of a wide variety of single‐s and multiphase flows involving complex geometries. Although the LBM has been demonstrated to be effective for the solution of incompressible flow problems, there are limitations when this methodology is applied to the solution of compressible flows, especially for flows at high Mach numbers. In this article, we investigate strategies to overcome some of the limitations associated with the application of LBM to compressible flows. To this purpose, one of the key contributions of this study is the synthesis and integration of previous efforts concerning the formulation of LBM for the large‐eddy simulation (LES) of compressible turbulent flows in the subsonic flow regime. It is shown how certain limitations of applying the LBM to compressible flows can be addressed by using either a higher order Taylor series expansion of the Maxwell–Boltzmann equilibrium distribution function or using the Kataoka and Tsutahara (KT) LBM model formulation for compressible flows. The proposed LBM/LES methodology for compressible flows has been combined with the Kirchhoff integral formulation for computational aeroacoustics and used to simulate the flow and acoustic fields of compressible jet flows at high subsonic speeds with practical relevance for providing a better understanding of problems associated with jet noise. In this context, simulations of the physics associated with the jet flow and concomitant noise in the near‐ and far‐field regimes were conducted using the proposed framework of a compressible LBM/LES and Kirchhoff integral method. The results of the subsonic isothermal and nonisothermal jet flow simulations for the flow and acoustic fields have been compared with available numerical and experimental results with generally good to excellent agreement.
Effects of Cudrania tricuspidata on anti‐senescence in high glucose‐treated endothelial cells via the Akt/p53/p21 pathway
Authors: Kim Gi Dae , Park Seonghee
Published: September 2020

The roles of Cudrania tricuspidata (CT) in the prevention of senescence and the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. In a high glucose (HG)‐induced senescent endothelial cell (EC) culture, CT (20 µg/ml) reduced the number of senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase‐positive cells by 8.3% compared with the control group and increased the expression of p‐Sirt1 by more than twofold compared with the control group. Moreover, 20 μg/ml CT treatment doubled the activity of p‐Akt, which was inhibited by HG, compared with the control group. In addition, CT treatment decreased the expression of p53, p21, and Rb, which was increased by HG. Overall, CT delays HG‐induced senescence via the Akt/p53/p21 pathway, suggesting its potential as a functional agent for the protection of ECs.
Is it worth outsourcing essential public health services in China?—Evidence from Beilin District of Xi'an
Authors: Yuan Hai , Li Hang , Hou ZhaoWei
Published: September 2020

Background

Essential public health services (EPHS) is general welfare public health interventions led by the Chinese government and provided by the primary medical institutions to all residents. In Beilin District, Xi'an, EPHS producers can be divided into outsourced institutions and public institutions.

Objective

Can outsourcing EPHS reduce costs and improve efficiency and quality? There is still no definite answer to this question. This paper compares the performance of outsourced institutions and public institutions in terms of efficiency and quality, explains the reasons for this phenomenon.

Methods

This paper uses a theoretical and two‐stage DEA model Based on a “triple subject” research framework.

Results

The results show that the difference between public institutions and outsourced institutions is mainly reflected in service quality. When the quality is not measured, outsourced institutions' production efficiency is higher than that of public institutions. When there are quality measurements, the production efficiency of outsourced institutions is lower than that of public institutions.

Conclusions

Outsourced institutions perform worse than public institutions. The reason is that a bilateral monopolistic market structure has formed between local governments and outsourced institutions. This situation makes it difficult for the government to replace poor quality outsourced institutions under the constraints of a limited budget.
Comparison of environmental tracers including organic micropollutants as groundwater exfiltration indicators into a small river of a karstic catchment
Authors: Glaser Clarissa , Schwientek Marc , Junginger Tobias , Gilfedder Benjamin Silas , Frei Sven , Werneburg Martina , Zwiener Christian , Zarfl Christiane
Published: September 2020

Understanding groundwater–surface water (GW–SW) interactions is vital for water management in karstic catchments due to its impact on water quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the applicability of seven environmental tracers to quantify and localize groundwater exfiltration into a small, human‐impacted karstic river system. Tracers were selected based on their emission source to the surface water either as (a) dissolved, predominantly geogenic compounds (radon‐222, sulphate and electrical conductivity) or (b) anthropogenic compounds (predominantly) originating from wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents (carbamazepine, tramadol, sodium, chloride). Two contrasting sampling approaches were compared (a) assuming steady‐state flow conditions and (b) considering the travel time of the water parcels (Lagrangian sampling) through the catchment to account for diurnal changes in inflow from the WWTP. Spatial variability of the concentrations of all tracers indicated sections of preferential groundwater inflow. Lagrangian sampling techniques seem highly relevant for capturing dynamic concentration patterns of WWTP‐derived compounds. Quantification of GW inflow with the finite element model FINIFLUX, based on observed in‐stream Rn activities led to plausible fluxes along the investigated river reaches (0.265 m3s−1), while observations of other natural or anthropogenic environmental tracers produced less plausible water fluxes. Important point sources of groundwater exfiltration can be ascribed to locations where the river crosses geological fault lines. This indicates that commonly applied concepts describing groundwater–surface water interactions assuming diffuse flow in porous media are difficult to transfer to karstic river systems whereas concepts from fractured aquifers may be more applicable. In general, this study helps selecting the best suited hydrological tracer for GW exfiltration and leads to a better understanding of processes controlling groundwater inflow into karstic river systems.
Nonlinear contagion between stock and real estate markets: International evidence from a local Gaussian correlation approach
Authors: Bouri Elie , Gupta Rangan , Wang Shixuan
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we analyze contagion over the daily period of January 1, 1998 to September 13, 2018 between Real Estate Investments Trusts (REITs) and the equity markets of 19 countries, which are at their different stages of development in terms of the REITs market. For our purpose, we use the local Gaussian correlation approach during the dot‐com, global financial, European sovereign debt crises and the more recent period involving the Brexit in the UK. The employed method not only avoids the bias of the conditional correlation, but also describes any nonlinear structure in dependence and the deviation from global normality. In general, we find strong evidence of nonlinear contagion between equities and REITs of not only matured and established markets, but also in economies with an emerging REITs sector, especially during the global financial and sovereign debt crises. Further, when we considered contagion across REITs of the US and the other countries, and between US REITs and equities of the remaining 18 countries, a similar pattern emerges. Our results have important implications for investors and policymakers alike.
Cost‐effectiveness of uterine tamponade devices for the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage: A systematic review
Authors: Vogel Joshua P. , Wilson Alyce N. , Scott Nick , Widmer Mariana , Althabe Fernando , Oladapo Olufemi T.
Published: September 2020

Background

Uterine tamponade is widely promoted for treating refractory postpartum hemorrhage (PPH); however, its cost‐effectiveness may vary depending on unit costs and setting.

Objective

To review available data on cost‐effectiveness of uterine tamponade devices when used for PPH treatment.

Search strategy

PubMed and EMBASE were searched (1980 to January 2020), as well as the National Health Services Economic Evaluation database from inception (1995) to March 2015.

Selection criteria

Eligible studies were any type of economic evaluation, or effectiveness studies that provided cost or economic data.

Data collection and analysis

Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality.

Main results

Eleven studies using a range of devices (condom catheter, uterine suction devices, Bakri, Inpress, Ellavi) were identified. Cost of condom catheter devices or kits ranged from US$0.64 to US$6, whereas purpose‐designed device costs were up to US$400. Two studies that took a health system perspective assessed the cost‐effectiveness of using uterine balloon tamponade and suggested that it was highly cost‐effective because of the low cost per disability‐adjusted life‐year averted, although both used effect estimates from case series.

Conclusions

Evidence on the cost‐effectiveness of uterine tamponade devices was limited and not generalizable. Rigorous economic evaluations based on updated effect estimates are needed.
A deep learning model integrating convolution neural network and multiple kernel K means clustering for segmenting brain tumor in magnetic resonance images
Authors: Ragupathy Balakumaresan , Karunakaran Manivannan
Published: September 2020

In medical imaging, segmenting brain tumor becomes a vital task, and it provides a way for early diagnosis and treatment. Manual segmentation of brain tumor in magnetic resonance (MR) images is a time‐consuming and challenging task. Hence, there is a need for a computer‐aided brain tumor segmentation approach. Using deep learning algorithms, a robust brain tumor segmentation approach is implemented by integrating convolution neural network (CNN) and multiple kernel K means clustering (MKKMC). In this proposed CNN‐MKKMC approach, classification of MR images into normal and abnormal is performed by CNN algorithm. At next, MKKMC algorithm is employed to segment the brain tumor from the abnormal brain image. The proposed CNN‐MKKMC algorithm is evaluated both visually and objectively in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity with the existing segmentation methods. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed CNN‐MKKMC approach yields better accuracy in segmenting brain tumor with less time cost.
The versatility of carbohydrates in antimicrobial applications
Authors: Xu Yuan , Liu Xue‐Wei
Published: September 2020

The worsening situation of global drug resistance is urgently demanding for novel antimicrobial agents. Considerable efforts have been concentrated on developing new antibacterial therapies with new mode of actions, exerting no selective pressure on bacterial mutation, and minimizing toxicity to host cells. In this context, active targeting can greatly contribute to selectivity between pathogens and mammalian cells in which carbohydrates, playing important roles in numerous biological processes, can be employed as targeting ligands or “trojan horse.” This short account has discussed the recent results of carbohydrate‐based antimicrobial agents developed by our group. Other excellent works by other scientists and possible directions in the future are also discussed.
A missing kidney and a hidden congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Singh Chanchal , Shahnaz Gazala , Handa Rakesh , Gupta Naveen Prakash , Sundar Jayasree
Published: September 2020

Congenital intrathoracic kidney (ITK) is a rare condition, which is usually discovered incidentally in asymptomatic children who do not need any intervention. However, it may be associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), in which case it requires urgent surgical intervention. We present a case of prenatally diagnosed ITK associated with a left CDH that was operated on day 5 of life. The neonate is currently well at 15 months of age.
Histology, ultrastructure, and seasonal variations in the bulbourethral gland of the African straw‐colored fruit bat Eidolon helvum
Authors: Abiaezute Clifford Nwabugwu , Nwaogu Innocent Chima , Igwebuike Udensi Maduabuchi
Published: September 2020

We studied the morphological characteristics and seasonal changes of the bulbourethral gland of Eidolon helvum in a typical African tropical environment. Forty‐eight bulbourethral glands were examined using gross anatomical, histological, histochemical, and ultrastructural techniques during the early rainy, late rainy, and peak dry seasons. The pear‐shaped bilateral bulbourethral glands were located extra‐abdominally in the inguinal region. Trabeculae from the capsule divided the parenchyma into numerous lobules of tubuloalveolar glandular acini. The mucosa was covered by a simple columnar epithelium consisting up of principal secretory cells, columnar dense cells and basal cells, which were progressively pronounced during the dry season. The principal cells contained eosinophilic granules, which were PAS positive while the dense cells did not show affinity for the stains. The mean gross weights, acini diameters, and epithelial heights were greater during the rainy season than the dry season. Ultrastructural evaluation showed that the cytoplasm of the principal cells contained well‐developed Golgi complexes, rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and secretory vesicles of varying electron densities and sizes. The secretory vesicles were numerous during the early rainy season, decreased during the late rainy season and were scanty during the peak dry season. The simple columnar epithelium observed during the rainy season was replaced by an undefined stratified epithelium during the dry season, and this was associated with cellular degenerations and regenerations. In conclusion, E. helvum has a typical mammalian bulbourethral gland, with a unique cell type, the dense cell whose functions are not well‐understood. The gland exhibits cyclical seasonal variation in structure and secretory activity; being active during the early rainy season (breeding season), and showing the lowest activity during the dry season (non‐breeding season). Glandular epithelial cell renewal occurs during the dry season in preparation for the next breeding season.
Prevalence of human papillomavirus 6 and 11 variants in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis
Authors: Sichero Laura , Ferreira Silvaneide , López Rossana V. M. , Mello Barbara P. , Costa Victor , El‐Achkar Vivian N. R. , Carlos Román , Ribeiro‐Silva Alfredo , Pignatari Shirley , Kaminagakura Estela , Villa Luisa L.
Published: September 2020

Human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11 are the etiological agents of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). We examined the prevalence and distribution of HPVs 6 and 11 genetic variants in juvenile onset (JORRP) and adult onset (AORRP) laryngeal papillomas. Cases of JORRP and AORRP were collected, retrospectively. HPV detection and genotyping were accessed by polymerase chain reaction‐sequencing in 67 RRP samples. Overall, the most prevalent HPV‐6 variants were from B1 (55.8%) and B3 (27.9%) sublineages, whereas among HPV‐11 positive samples A2 (62.5%) variants were predominant. A higher prevalence of HPV‐6 B1 was observed in JORRP (83.3% B1 and 16.7% B3), compared with AORRP cases (58.3% B1 and 41.7% B3). HPV‐11 A2 variants were more prevalent both in JORRP (57.2%) and in AORRP cases (70.0%). Nevertheless, with the exception that HPV‐6 B1 were significantly less likely to recur, there was a lack of association between any particular HPVs 6 or 11 variant and clinicopathological features. Our data do not support an association between HPVs 6 and 11 variability and RRP.
Effect of connective tissue grafting on buccal bone changes based on cone beam computed tomography scans in the esthetic zone of single immediate implants: A 1‐year randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zuiderveld Elise G. , van Nimwegen Wouter G. , Meijer Henny J.A. , Jung Ronald E. , Mühlemann Sven , Vissink Arjan , Raghoebar Gerry M.
Published: September 2020

Background

Connective tissue grafting has a beneficial effect on the peri‐implant mucosa, but the effect of grafting the buccal mucosa on buccal bone thickness (BBT) has not been investigated, although BBT is proposed to be a key factor for the soft‐tissue contour. The aim of this trial was to assess the outcome of a connective tissue graft (CTG) in the esthetic zone of single immediate implants on the change of BBT according to cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scan analysis.

Methods

In a 1‐year randomized controlled trial, 60 patients received an immediately placed implant and provisionalization, either combined with CTG (test group) or without CTG (control group). CBCTs were taken preoperatively (Tpre) and 1 year after definitive restoration (T2). Any change in BBT was assessed at different implant levels. Additionally, the change in mid‐buccal mucosal level (MBML) and approximal marginal bone level were assessed.

Results

Fifty‐five patients were available for statistical analysis (test group, n = 28; control group, n = 27). At T2, the average change in BBT was significantly larger in the test group (−0.84 ± 0.61 mm) than in the control group (−0.46 ± 0.54 mm, P = 0.02). A MBML gain of 0.07 ± 0.85 mm in the test and a MBML loss −0.52 ± 1.16 mm in the control group was observed at T2. Average loss of marginal bone was 0.05 ± 0.33 mm and 0.01 ± 0.38 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

The application of CTG in the esthetic zone of immediately placed and provisionalized implants is accompanied with more loss of BBT, but at the same time better maintains the mid‐buccal mucosal level.
Influence of restorative design on the progression of peri‐implant bone loss: A retrospective study
Authors: Majzoub Jad , Chen Zhaozhao , Saleh Islam , Askar Houssam , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: September 2020

Background

Clinical data on the restorative designs affecting the early progression of peri‐implantitis are scarce. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the influence of several restorative factors (e.g., restoration emergence angle, and internal screw length/diameter) on the marginal bone loss around implants with peri‐implantitis.

Methods

Implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis having 1‐ (T1) and 2‐year (T2) follow‐ups were included. In addition, within 6 months pre‐diagnosis (Tb), all cases required to have full documentation in which no evidence of peri‐implantitis was not indicated. Changes in marginal bone levels (MBLs) from Tb to T1 and from T1 to T2 were evaluated. The effect of several variables on MBLs changes was assessed via univariate and multivariate generalized estimating equations.

Results

Eighty‐three bone‐level implants from 65 patients were selected. The mean follow‐up before peri‐implantitis diagnosis was 99.47 ± 47.93 months. The radiographic mean marginal bone loss was 1.52 ± 1.33 mm (Tb to T1) and 0.58 ± 0.52 mm (T1 to T2). Restoration emergence angle and frequency of maintenance visits significantly affected MBLs from Tb to T1. Besides, 66.3% of the included implants’ bone levels were in a zone within 1 mm of the apical end of the internal screw at T1 and remained in this zone during the second follow‐up year.

Conclusions

Significant marginal bone loss occurred in the early post‐diagnosis period of peri‐implantitis, which could be affected by the restoration emergence angle. Peri‐implant MBLs were frequently located in a zone within 1 mm of the apical end of the internal screw.
Towards more Ecofriendly Pesticides: Use of Biosurfactants Obtained from the Corn Milling Industry as Solubilizing Agent of Copper Oxychloride
Authors: López‐Prieto Alejandro , Moldes Ana B. , Cruz Jose M. , Pérez Cid Benita
Published: September 2020

Copper oxychloride (Cu‐Oxy) is a widely used copper‐based fungicide. A drawback of the product is its very low water solubility (around 0.2%) which limits its fungicide efficiency due to the low‐penetrating capacity in the fungal mycelia. In this study, we have explored the use of biosurfactants (BS), surface‐active compounds obtained by microbial production, to enhance the solubility of Cu‐Oxy in agrochemical formulations. A BS extracted from corn steep liquor (CSL), a residue from the corn‐milling industry, was evaluated as an additive to increase the solubility of Cu‐Oxy in water. Different types of synthetic surfactants (Tween® 80, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)) were included for comparison. Results showed that it was possible to dissolve around 90% of Cu‐Oxy at concentration of 4 g L−1 in 20 min of contact time when the BS was added at the concentration of 20 g L−1. In contrast, the synthetic surfactants were only able to dissolve less than 0.5% of Cu‐Oxy under the same conditions. In addition, a factorial design was carried out in order to evaluate the influence of BS concentration, Cu‐Oxy concentration and contact time, on the solubilization of Cu‐Oxy. Maximum percentage of solubilization (96.5%) was achieved at concentrations of 16.1 g L−1 of BS, 2 g L−1 of Cu‐Oxy, and 20 min of contact time. These results allowed to conclude that BS extracted from CSL could be included in agrochemical formulations as solubilizing agents improving the stability of hydrophobic active principles and reducing the concentration needed of chemical pesticides, giving eco‐friendlier formulations.
Proteomic analysis of the seeds of transgenic rice lines and the corresponding nongenetically modified isogenic variety
Authors: Liu Weixiao , Chen Hao , Li Liang , Dong Mei , Zhang Zhe , Wan Yusong , Jin Wujun
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

An isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)‐based proteomic analysis was employed to study the seeds of two genetically modified (GM) rice lines, T2A‐1 and T1C‐19, and their nontransgenic isogenic variety, MH63, to investigate the unintended effects of genetic modification.

RESULTS

A total of 3398 proteins were quantitatively identified. Seventy‐seven differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) were identified in the T2A‐1/MH63 comparison, and 70 and 7 of these DAPs were upregulated and downregulated, respectively. A pathway enrichment analysis showed that most of these DAPs participated in metabolic pathways and protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and were ribosome components. Some 181 DAPs were identified from the T1C‐19/MH63 comparison, and these included 115 upregulated proteins and 66 downregulated proteins. The subsequent pathway enrichment analysis showed that these DAPs mainly participated in protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms and were ribosome components. None of these DAPs were identified as new unintended toxins or allergens, and only changes in abundance were detected. Fifty‐four co‐DAPs were identified in the seeds of the two GM rice lines, and protein–protein interaction analysis of these co‐DAPs demonstrated that some interacting proteins were involved in protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum and metabolic pathways, whereas others were identified as ribosome components. Representative co‐DAPs and proteins related to nutrients were analyzed using qRT‐PCR to determine their transcriptional levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggested that the seed proteomic profiles of the two GM rice lines studied were not substantially altered from those of their natural isogenic control. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Interactions between dietary fiber and ferulic acid change the aggregation of glutenin, gliadin and glutenin macropolymer in wheat flour system
Authors: Feng Yulin , Zhang Huijuan , Fu Bingbing , Iftikhar Maryam , Liu GuoYan , Wang Jing
Published: September 2020

BACKGROUND

Glutenin macropolymer (GMP), glutenin and gliadin proteins are important indicators of the baking quality of dough. This study investigated the impacts of wheat bran and a mixture of ferulic acid (FA) and dietary fiber (DF) on the constitution of gluten proteins. Addition of wheat bran (100 and 150 g kg−1) into gluten decreased the gliadin/glutenin ratio, while the addition of different amounts of FA + DF (C1 group: 20 g kg−1 FA and 60 g kg−1 DF; C2 group: 30 g kg−1 FA and 90 g kg−1 DF) had the opposite effect.

RESULTS

The GMP contents of wheat bran groups (B1 group: 100 g kg−1; B2 group: 150 g kg−1) were similar to that of the control group, and disulfide bond contents were increased. However, both GMP and disulfide bond contents of FA + DF groups significantly decreased. The GMP gel properties and microstructures were destroyed after addition of wheat bran and FA + DF. The wheat bran and FA + DF additives induced different effects on the thermal properties and secondary structures of glutenin, gliadin and GMP.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that the interaction mechanism of bran fractions and gluten proteins is not only related to the physicochemical properties of the additives, but also to interactions between the additives and the components of gluten protein. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Extrahepatic recurrence rates in patients receiving adjuvant hepatic artery infusion and systemic chemotherapy after complete resection of colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Srouji Rami M. , Narayan Raja R. , Boerner Thomas , Buisman Florian E. , Seier Kenneth , Gonen Mithat , Balachandran Vinod P. , Drebin Jeffrey A. , Jarnagin William R. , Kingham T. Peter , Wei Alice , Kemeny Nancy E. , D'Angelica Michael I.
Published: September 2020

Background

This study investigated the effect of the reduced dose of systemic chemotherapy (SYS) on recurrence patterns in patients receiving adjuvant hepatic artery infusion (HAI) chemotherapy after complete colorectal liver metastases (CRLM) resection.

Methods

Patients undergoing complete CRLM resection between 2000 and 2007 were selected from a prospectively maintained database and categorized as receiving SYS or HAI + SYS. Those with pre and/or intraoperative extrahepatic disease, documented death, or recurrence within 30 days of CRLM resection were excluded. Competing risk, Fine and Gray's tests were used to compare SYS versus HAI + SYS for time‐to‐organ recurrence.

Results

Of 361 study patients, 153 (42.4%) received SYS and 208 (57.6%) received HAI + SYS. The median follow‐up for survivors was 100 (range = 12–185) and 156 months (range = 18–217) for SYS and HAI + SYS, respectively. The 5‐year cumulative incidence (CI) of any liver recurrence was greater for those receiving SYS (SYS = 41.9% vs. HAI + SYS = 28.6%, p = .005). The 5‐year CI of developing any lung or extrahepatic recurrence for SYS patients was 36.2% and 47.9% compared with 44.5% (p = .242) and 51.7% (p = .551), respectively, in patients receiving HAI + SYS.

Conclusion

Despite the reduced dose of SYS, adjuvant HAI + SYS after CRLM resection is not associated with a significantly increased risk of extrahepatic recurrence.
Homogeneous conversion of NOx and NH3 with CH4, CO, and C2H4 at the diluted conditions of exhaust‐gases of lean operated natural gas engines
Authors: Schmitt Steffen , Schwarz Sabrina , Ruwe Lena , Horstmann Jacqueline , Sabath Franziska , Maier Lubow , Deutschmann Olaf , Kohse‐Höinghaus Katharina
Published: September 2020

Understanding gas‐phase reactions in model gas mixtures approximating pre‐turbine heavy‐duty natural gas engine exhaust compositions containing NO, NH3, NO2, CH4, CO, and C2H4 is extremely relevant for aftertreatment procedure and catalyst design and is thus addressed in this work. In a plug‐flow reactor at atmospheric pressure, five different model gas mixtures were investigated in the temperature range of 700‐1 200 K, using species analysis with electron ionization molecular‐beam mass spectrometry. The mixtures were designed to reveal influences of individual components by adding NO2, CH4, CO, and C2H4 sequentially to a highly argon‐diluted NO/NH3 base mixture. Effects of all components on the reactivity for NOx conversion were investigated both experimentally as well as by comparison with three selected kinetic models. Main results show a significantly increased reactivity upon NO2 and hydrocarbon addition with lowered NO conversion temperatures by up to 200 K. Methane was seen to be of dominant influence in the carbon‐containing mixtures regarding interactions between the carbon and nitrogen chemistry as well as formaldehyde formation. The three tested mechanisms were capable to overall represent the reaction behavior satisfactorily. On this basis, it can be stated that significant gas‐phase reactivity was observed among typical constituents of pre‐turbine natural gas engine exhaust at moderate temperature.
Preliminary evidence that letters to the editor are indexed inconsistently in PubMed and in exercise science and physical therapy journals: Implications and resolutions
Authors: Nuzzo James L.
Published: September 2020

Key points

Letters to the editor are important to science because they are a form of post‐publication review.

Examination of 3,203 letters published in exercise science and physical therapy journals revealed letters are indexed inconsistently.

Issues exist with letter titles, letter authorship, and letter digital object identifiers (DOIs) and PubMed identifiers (PMIDs).

Implications are that some letters are difficult to discover and cite, and some letter writers are not recognized for their intellectual contributions.

Resolutions include indexing letters in PubMed under the “letter” [pt] search term and indexing each letter with the author's name, a distinct but consistently formatted title, and a unique DOI and PMID.
Climate and food web effects on the spring clear‐water phase in two north‐temperate eutrophic lakes
Authors: Matsuzaki Shin‐Ichiro S. , Lathrop Richard C. , Carpenter Stephen R. , Walsh Jake R. , Vander Zanden M. Jake , Gahler Mark R. , Stanley Emily H.
Published: September 2020

Although climate change has shifted the phenological timing of plankton in lakes, few studies have explicitly addressed the relative contributions of climate change and other factors, including planktivory and nutrient availability. The spring clear‐water phase is a period of marked reduction in algal biomass and increased water transparency observed in many lakes. Here, we quantified the phenological patterns in the start date, maximum date, duration, and magnitude of the clear‐water phase over 38 yr in Lakes Mendota and Monona, and examined the effects of water temperature, total phosphorus, and food web structure (proportion of large‐bodiedDaphnia pulicariaand density of invasiveBythotrephes) and interactions between temperature and other predictors on these clear‐water phase metrics. We found that climate and food web structure affected the clear‐water phase, but the effects differed among the metrics. Higher water temperature led to earlier clear‐water phase start dates and maximum dates in both lakes. The proportion ofD. pulicariaaffected all clear‐water phase metrics in both lakes. WhenD. pulicariaproportion was higher, the clear‐water phase occurred earlier, lasted longer, and the water was clearer. Moreover, highBythotrephesdensity delayed clear‐water phase start dates (both lakes), and decreased clear‐water phase duration (Lake Mendota) in the following year. These results suggest that variation in food web structure changes the full phenological dynamics of the clear‐water phase, while variation in climate condition affects clear‐water phase timing only. Our findings highlight the importance of large‐bodied grazers for managing water quality under climate change.
Effects of Lugol's iodine on long‐term preservation of marine plankton samples for molecular and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analyses
Authors: Sano Masayoshi , Makabe Ryosuke , Kurosawa Norio , Moteki Masato , Odate Tsuneo
Published: September 2020

Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope and molecular analyses are common tools for marine ecological and biological research. However, it is difficult to fix samples for both analyses using only one preservative. A solution of potassium iodide and iodine (known as Lugol's iodine solution) is considered to be a suitable preservative; however, the effectiveness of Lugol's iodine solution for long‐term preservation of samples for stable isotope analysis and molecular analysis has not yet been investigated. We tested the effectiveness of 5% and 10% Lugol's iodine solutions by comparing them with marine plankton samples preserved in a 5% formalin solution, as well as preserved by freezing. Although δ13C and δ15N values of samples fixed in 5% formalin and 5% Lugol's iodine solution were significantly different from those of frozen samples, there were no significant differences in both δ13C and δ15N values between samples fixed in 10% Lugol's iodine solution and frozen samples, when preserved for a duration from 1 week up to 6 months. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay of samples fixed in 10% Lugol's iodine solution after 18 months of preservation succeeded; however, the DNA in samples fixed in 5% formalin and 5% Lugol's iodine solution could not be amplified using PCR. There was no difference in the sequences of partial 18S rRNA genes between samples fixed in 10% Lugol's solution and frozen samples. Thus, we conclude that 10% Lugol's solution is a suitable fixative for both of carbon and nitrogen stable isotope and molecular analyses.
Steering Directional Light Emission and Mode Chirality through Postshaping of Cavity Geometry
Authors: Wang Jiawei , Tang Min , Yang Yue‐De , Yin Yin , Chen Yan , Saggau Christian Niclaas , Zhu Minshen , Yuan Xiaobo , Karnaushenko Dmitriy , Huang Yong‐Zhen , Ma Libo , Schmidt Oliver G.
Published: September 2020

Dielectric optical microcavities have been explored as an excellent platform to manipulate the light flow and investigate non‐Hermitian physics in open optical systems. For whispering gallery mode optical microcavities, modifying the rotational symmetry is highly desirable for intriguing phenomena such as degenerated chiral modes and directional light emission. However, for the state‐of‐the‐art approaches, namely deforming the cavity geometry by precision lithography or introducing local scatterers near the cavity boundary via micromanipulation, there is a lack of flexibility in fine‐adjusting of chiral symmetry and far‐field emission direction. Here, precise engineering of cavity boundary using electron‐beam‐induced deposition is reported based on rolled‐up nanomembrane‐enabled spiral‐shaped microcavities. The deformation of outer boundary results in delicate tailoring of asymmetric backscattering between the outer and inner rolling edges, and hence deterministically strong mode chirality. Besides, the crescent‐shaped high‐index nanocap leads to modified light tunneling channels and inflected far‐field emission angle. It is envisioned that such a localized deposition‐assisted technique for adjusting the structural deformation of 3D optical microcavities will be highly useful for understanding rich insights in non‐Hermitian photonics and unfolding exotic properties on lasing, sensing, and cavity quantum electrodynamics.
DNA Methylation as a Potential Molecular Mechanism in X‐linked Dystonia‐Parkinsonism
Authors: Krause Christin , Schaake Susen , Grütz Karen , Sievert Helen , Reyes Charles Jourdan , König Inke R. , Laabs Björn‐Hergen , Jamora Roland Dominic , Rosales Raymond L. , Diesta Cid Czarina E. , Pozojevic Jelena , Gemoll Timo , Westenberger Ana , Kaiser Frank J. , Klein Christine , Kirchner Henriette
Published: September 2020

Background

X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism is a neurodegenerative movement disorder. The underlying molecular basis has still not been completely elucidated, but likely involves dysregulation of TAF1 expression. In X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism, 3 disease‐specific single‐nucleotide changes (DSCs) introduce (DSC12) or abolish (DSC2 and DSC3) CpG dinucleotides and consequently sites of putative DNA methylation. Because transcriptional regulation tightly correlates with specific epigenetic marks, we investigated the role of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis of X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism.

Methods

DNA methylation at DSC12, DSC3, and DSC2 was quantified by bisulfite pyrosequencing in DNA from peripheral blood leukocytes, fibroblasts, induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cortical neurons and brain tissue from X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism patients and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy Filipino controls in a prospective study.

Results

Compared with controls, X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism patients showed striking differences in DNA methylation at the 3 investigated CpG sites. Using methylation‐sensitive luciferase reporter gene assays and immunoprecipitation, we demonstrated (1) that lack of DNA methylation because of DSC2 and DSC3 affects gene promoter activity and (2) that methylation at all 3 investigated CpG sites alters DNA–protein interaction. Interestingly, DSC3 decreased promoter activity per se compared with wild type, and promoter activity further decreased when methylation was present. Moreover, we identified specific binding of proteins to the investigated DSCs that are associated with splicing and RNA and DNA binding.

Conclusions

We identified altered DNA methylation in X‐linked dystonia‐parkinsonism patients as a possible additional mechanism modulating TAF1 expression and putative novel targets for future therapies using DNA methylation‐modifying agents. © 2020 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Crisis response in Denver progresses, with many other communities watching
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: September 2020

Now in the fourth month of their pilot effort to respond to some mental health crisis calls without a police presence, leaders of Denver's Support Team Assisted Response (STAR) program can point to one rather remarkable statistic. As of early last week, not one of the more than 400 calls for service that the program's teams of a social worker and a paramedic have responded to have required a follow‐up call for police assistance.
Asymmetric single stub‐tapped stepped‐impedance unit for compact rat‐race coupler with ultra‐wide range harmonic suppression
Authors: Vuppuloori Ravi Sekhara Reddy , Velidi Vamsi Krishna , Bhima Prabhakara Rao
Published: September 2020

A design of compact rat‐race coupler (RRC) with very wide‐range spurious suppression is presented using transmission line (TL) based asymmetric single stub‐tapped stepped‐impedance units. The main advantages of proposed unit are 2fold. First, unlike regular single stub TL units, the present unit facilitates realizable high (low) impedance values for smaller electrical length series‐arm (shunt open‐stub) resulting in great extent of size reduction (harmonic suppression) without degradation in coupler bandwidths. Second, the number of open‐stubs in the RRC can be reduced to three by connecting the proposed units back‐to‐back, which is not possible in using other TL units. Theoretical analysis is provided with design equations and graphs. A prototype high performance compact RRC at f0 = 0.5 GHz, targeted at a size reduction of about 75% and ultra‐wide range suppressed harmonic response, extended up to 12f0, is demonstrated with good 20 dB return loss bandwidth of 26%.
Microdosimetric measurements of a monoenergetic and modulated Bragg Peaks of 62 MeV therapeutic proton beam with a synthetic single crystal diamond microdosimeter
Authors: Verona C. , Cirrone G. A. P. , Magrin G. , Marinelli M. , Palomba S. , Petringa G. , Rinati G. Verona
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate for the first time the performance of a synthetic single crystal diamond detector for the microdosimetric characterization of clinical 62 MeV ocular therapy proton beams.

Methods

A novel diamond microdosimeter with a well‐defined sensitive volume was fabricated and tested with a monoenergetic and spread‐out Bragg peak (SOBP) of the CATANA therapeutic proton beam in Catania, Italy. The whole sensitive volume of the detector has an active planar‐sectional area of 100 µm × 100 µm and a thickness of approximately 6.3 um. Microdosimetric measurements were performed at several water equivalent depths, corresponding to positions of clinical relevance. From the measured spectra, microdosimetric quantities such as the frequency mean lineal energy (), dose mean lineal energy () as well as microdosimetric relative biological effectiveness (RBEµ) values were derived for each depth along both a pristine Bragg curve and SOBP. Finally, Geant4 Monte Carlo simulations were performed modeling the detector geometry and CATANA beamline in order to calculate the average linear energy transfer (LET) values in the diamond active layer and water.

Results

The microdosimetric spectra acquired by the diamond microdosimeter show different shapes as a function of the water equivalent depths. No spectral distortion, due to pile‐up events and polarization effects, was observed. The experimental spectra have a very low detection threshold due to the electronic noise during the irradiation of about 1 keV/μm. The and values were in agreement with expected trends, showing a sharp increase in mean lineal energy at the distal edge of the Bragg peak. In addition, a good agreement between the mean lineal energy values and the calculated average LET ones was also observed. Finally, the RBE values evaluated with the diamond microdosimeter were in excellent agreement with those obtained with a mini tissue equivalent proportional counter as well as with radiobiological measurements in the same proton beam field.

Conclusions

The microdosimetric performance of the tested synthetic single crystal diamond microdosimeter clearly indicates its suitability for quality assurance in clinical proton therapy beam.
An exploration of physiotherapy telephone services: Impact on patient and service outcomes. A narrative review
Authors: Gilhooly Sophie , Alexander Jenny
Published: September 2020

Introduction

The demands on healthcare are intensifying and access times are rising. The appropriateness of telemedicine amongst the physiotherapy profession remains under question. This review aimed to explore the current evidence base and highlight methods in which services can be embedded more consistently. With the push for new methods of service delivery, this project fits well with the current climate.

Methods

Electronic databases, MEDLINE, CINAHL and PubMed were searched using basic and combination key terms without date restriction.

Ethical Approval

Ethical approval was not required as the work is not considered research.

Results/Discussion

Physiotherapy is considered by many, a hands‐on profession and failure to meet this expectation appears to take precedent over quality of care. Staff with prior experience view telephone services more positively and engage better. Interestingly no specific training requirements have been set to aid the development of staff in this new role. Telephone services are able to manage a modest proportion of patients however care must be taken to avoid increases in consulting time and costs via mechanisms such as repeated consultations. Patient choice, staff satisfaction and wider access also impacts on acceptability of these services for patients and staff.

Conclusion(s)

Telephone services offer flexible, alternative options for patients and support variation and skill development for staff however appear less satisfactory than usual care. Further research into areas such as patient expectation, staff training and evaluation of costs will develop the evidence base and support the use of telephone services within the physiotherapy profession.
Autonomic neuropathies
Authors: Kaur Divpreet , Tiwana Harmanpreet , Stino Amro , Sandroni Paola
Published: September 2020

Autonomic neuropathies represent a complex group of disorders that preferentially target autonomic fibers and can be classified as either acute/subacute or chronic in onset. Acute‐onset autonomic neuropathies manifest with such conditions as paraneoplastic syndromes, Guillain‐Barre syndrome, Sjögren syndrome, infection, or toxins/chemotherapy. When the presentation is acute, immune‐mediated, and without a secondary cause, autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy is likely, and should be considered for immunotherapy. Of the chronic‐onset forms, diabetes is the most widespread and disabling, with autonomic impairment portending increased mortality and cardiac wall remodeling risk. Acquired light chain (AL) and transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis represent two other key etiologies, with TTR amyloidosis now amenable to newly‐approved gene‐modifying therapies. The COMPASS‐31 questionnaire is a validated outcome measure that can be used to monitor autonomic severity and track treatment response. Symptomatic treatments targeting orthostatic hypotension, among other symptoms, should be individualized and complement disease‐modifying therapy, when possible.