bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Summer assessment of zooplankton biodiversity and environmental control in urban waterbodies on the Island of Montréal
Authors: Mimouni El‐Amine , Pinel‐Alloul Bernadette , Beisner Beatrix E. , Legendre Pierre
Published: August 2018

Waterbodies in urban environments are usually built or maintained to serve socioeconomic functions. However, they also represent ecosystems that can contribute notably to urban biodiversity. To better understand contribution to biodiversity of urban ecosystems, the variation in zooplankton community composition in 19 waterbodies across the Island of Montréal (Québec, Canada) was monitored across three summer months. Communities were dissimilar between and within waterbodies with species richness differences and replacement patterns playing equal parts in shaping the observed variation. Within each waterbody, notable differences were detected between months, which can affect biodiversity estimation or community composition assessment. Zooplankton species richness was especially well explained by macrophyte cover, which had a positive effect. Compositional differences were also explained by macrophyte cover and by waterbody emptying. Partitioning the beta diversity revealed that only richness difference patterns were explained by macrophyte cover, as species replacement patterns were not explained by any of the measured environmental variables.
Ultrasound‐guided adductor canal block after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: Effect of adding dexamethasone to bupivacaine, a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ibrahim A.S. , Aly M.G. , Farrag W.S. , Gad EL‐Rab N.A. , Said H.G. , Saad A.H.
Published: August 2018

Background

Dexamethasone improves the quality and duration of peripheral nerve block when used as an adjuvant to local anaesthetic. We evaluated the effect of adding dexamethasone to bupivacaine on the duration of postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing knee arthroscopy using ultrasound‐guided adductor canal block.

Methods

The study was a randomized, double‐blinded trial. Sixty patients scheduled for arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction were randomly allocated into two groups to receive adductor canal block. The control group received 20 mL bupivacaine 0.5% + 2 mL normal saline, and the dexamethasone group received 20 mL bupivacaine 0.5% + 2 mL dexamethasone (8 mg). Measurements included onset and duration of sensory blockade, visual analog score, time to first analgesic requirement, analgesic consumption, satisfaction score and assessment of quadriceps strength.

Results

Duration of sensory block was significantly longer in the dexamethasone group (17.42 ± 5.24 h) than the control group (12.52 ± 1.16 h), p < 0.001. The visual analog score was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the dexamethasone group. Time to first analgesic requirement was significantly longer in the dexamethasone group (13.37 ± 3.68 h) compared with the control group (10.57 ± 0.93 h), p < 0.001. Ketorolac dose as a rescue analgesic was significantly higher in the control group (p < 0.001), whereas patients’ satisfaction score was significantly higher in the dexamethasone group (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The addition of dexamethasone to bupivacaine in adductor canal block provides prolonged postoperative analgesia and less postoperative analgesic consumption than bupivacaine alone in anterior cruciate ligament arthroscopic surgery.

Significance

Adding dexamethasone to bupivacaine in adductor canal block significantly increases the duration of sensory block, time to first analgesic requirement and patients’ satisfaction score in anterior cruciate ligament arthroscopic surgery.
Recent Progress and Future Trends of Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Hu Yuxiang , Sun Dan , Luo Bin , Wang Lianzhou
Published: August 2018

As one of the most promising alternatives to next‐generation energy storage systems, aluminum batteries (ABs) have been attracting rapidly increasing attention over the past few years. In this review, we summarize the recent advancements of ABs based on both aqueous and non‐aqueous electrolytes, with a particular focus on rechargeable non‐aqueous ionic liquid‐based aluminum‐ion batteries (AIBs). Progress of the current intensive investigation on the development of cathode materials and electrolytes in non‐aqueous AIBs are discussed. Then research efforts towards aqueous ABs are described to give readers a broader view of the aluminum battery family. Finally, the review summaries the key challenges underpinning ABs and provides future research perspectives on this growing field.
Incremental relaying networks with energy harvesting relay selection: Performance analysis
Authors: Bao Vo Nguyen Quoc , Van Nguyen Toan
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we propose an incremental relaying network with energy harvesting–based relay selection, where the selected relay harvesting the largest energy from the source radio‐frequency signals among available ones will be the forwarder in the next hop using time switching mechanism. Employing incremental relaying, the destination will request the assistance from the selected relay when the direct link from the source to the destination is not good enough for decoding. Three cases at the destination are considered including no combining, selection combining, and maximal ratio combining. Our main contribution is to evaluate completely the performance of the proposed scheme over Rayleigh fading channels. The exact expressions of the system outage probability are derived and then verified by Monte‐Carlo simulations. We further conduct the asymptotic analysis to evaluate the diversity gain of the proposed scheme. We also propose a linear search algorithm to attain the optimal time switching ratio. The numerical results confirm the advantage of the proposed scheme over the direct transmission for a given average transmit power. In addition, it is shown that the system performance in terms outage probability, spectral efficiency, and system throughput can be improved by appropriately designing the switching (requesting) rate and the position of relays has significant effect on the system performance if the switching rate is greater than the target data rate.
BIM processes and workflows using the example of the subway extension in Stockholm
Authors: Stelzer Magdalena , Radoncic Nedim , Iserte Llacer Pedro Luis , Tatar Ali , Holmberg Mats
Published: August 2018

Three major technical and economic factors of the ”Yellow Line“ project of the Stockholm subway network justify the decision to apply a BIM‐oriented design: (1) Early optimization and risk minimization for cost and time and active counteraction to the loss of information throughout the entire lifecycle of the project, (2) all technical aspects are to be incorporated in the design simultaneously and from early stage onwards, (3) numerous surface and subsurface structures, including tunnels under operation and in vicinity of the new line lead to a complex geometrical layout and geotechnical influences on each of these structures are to be minimized. Commercial 3D/BIM products have proven to be developed for application in surface structure design and new methods had to be established to cope with high quality tunnel modelling, coordination and tunnelling challenges. This publication is addressing the experience and solutions made during the design: Choice of appropriate modelling tools, applied methodology for a structured design process in a multidisciplinary and manifold work environment, accounting to highly complex geologically‐geotechnical data, seamless transfer of the model data to numerical analysis tools. The advantages and disadvantages of using BIM methodology are discussed and recommendations with regard to future development are presented.
Idiopathic Portal Hypertension
Authors: Hernández‐Gea Virginia , Baiges Anna , Turon Fanny , Garcia‐Pagán Juan Carlos
Published: August 2018

Idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) is a rare disorder characterized by clinical portal hypertension in the absence of a recognizable cause such as cirrhosis. Laboratory tests often reveal a preserved liver function with anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia due to splenomegaly. Imaging studies reveal signs of portal hypertension, whereas liver stiffness and portal pressure values are usually normal or slightly elevated. Liver biopsy is considered mandatory in order to rule out other causes of portal hypertension, mainly cirrhosis. Liver histology may only show subtle or mild changes, and the definite diagnosis of IPH often requires an expert pathologist and a high‐quality specimen. The most frequent clinical presentation is variceal bleeding. Ascites is rarely observed initially, although it may occasionally appear during follow‐up. Typical histological findings associated with IPH have been described in patients without portal hypertension, probably representing early stages of the disease. Although the pathophysiology of this entity remains largely unknown, it is frequently associated with underlying immunological disorders, bacterial infections, trace metal poisoning, medications, liver circulatory disturbances, and thrombotic events. The long‐term prognosis of patients with IPH, where ascites and the underlying condition are important prognostic factors, is better than in patients with cirrhosis. Treatments that modify the natural history of the disease remain an unmet need, and management of IPH is frequently restricted to control of portal hypertension–related complications.
Drinking and Breathing: Solvent Coordination‐driven Plasticity of IRMOF‐9
Authors: Canossa Stefano , Pelagatti Paolo , Bacchi Alessia
Published: August 2018

The coordination chemistry of Metal‐Organic Frameworks is one key aspect when their applications and performances enhancement are pursued. This is usually investigated while cation exchanges or functionalisation reactions on open metal sites are involved. In this work we present a rare case of solvent coordination‐induced breathing behaviour of a renowned Zn‐based MOF, namely IRMOF‐9, whose structural flexibility allows its framework topology to be retained upon dramatic coordination changes on their inorganic nodes. These are observed to accept from one to three additional coordination bonds from solvent molecules, depending on the coordination power of these latter and on temperature conditions. Structural studies by Single Crystal X‐Ray Diffraction afforded precious insights on the occurring of such coordinative changes, suggesting that solvent molecules which dynamically bind the metal atoms are capable to play a decisive role in the final geometry of the framework.
A Simplified Irrigation Pump Testing Method for Developing Countries: A Case Study in Bangladesh
Authors: Yu Su , Colton Jonathan S. , Matin Md. Abdul , Krupnik Timothy J.
Published: August 2018

Much of South Asia experiences a monomodal rainfall pattern with a distinct dry season following the annual monsoon. Enabling irrigation during the dry season has therefore been crucial in assuring improved productivity and double‐cropping. This is particularly the case in southern Bangladesh, where recent government initiatives have called for an expansion of surface water irrigation to reduce pressure on groundwater tables in intensively cultivated areas in the north of the country, where dry season boro rice is grown. This paper describes a method based on first principles of fluid mechanics to characterize the performance of surface water irrigation pumps used by small‐scale farmers in South Asia and Bangladesh. This method is unique, as it incorporates an optimized protocol suitable for resource‐limited conditions found in many developing countries and provides a comprehensive yet simple‐to‐use pump selection method for surface water irrigation pump customers. Using pump impellers as a case study, the method also characterizes the effect of pump geometric variations resulting from the variable production and assembly practices found in different manufacturing workshops. This method was validated with a case study in Bangladesh supported by both full‐scale field testing and numerical simulation results. © 2018 The Authors. Irrigation and Drainage published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Commission for Irrigation and Drainage
Punishment of an alternative behavior generates resurgence of a previously extinguished target behavior
Authors: Fontes Rafaela M. , Todorov João C. , Shahan Timothy A.
Published: August 2018

Resurgence is often defined as the recurrence of an extinguished behavior when a more recently reinforced alternative behavior is also extinguished. Resurgence has also been observed when the alternative behavior is devalued by other means (e.g., reinforcement rate or magnitude reductions). The present study investigated whether punishment of an alternative behavior would generate resurgence. A target response was reinforced during Phase 1 and then extinguished in Phase 2 while an alternative response was reinforced. During Phase 3, response‐dependent foot shocks were superimposed on the schedule of reinforcement for the alternative response and shock intensity was escalated gradually across sessions. Resurgence of the target response was reliably observed, mostly at higher intensities. The effect was replicated in two subsequent exposures to the sequence of conditions, with resurgence tending to occur at the lowest foot shock intensity. These results suggest that devaluation of an alternative behavior via punishment can generate resurgence. Although it is difficult to reconcile the overall pattern of results with Bouton's context account, these findings are consistent with the suggestion that resurgence results from a “worsening of conditions” for the alternative behavior and with the formalization of that suggestion in terms of a choice‐based matching‐law account (i.e., Resurgence as Choice).
Gallstone ileus with spontaneous evacuation: A case report
Authors: Takahashi Koji , Kashimura Hiroshi , Konno Naoaki , Nakagawa Miyuki , Kawahara Yuki , Munakata Akari , Okawara Ken , Aoki Yohei , Nihei Takeshi
Published: August 2018

A 65‐year‐old man was referred to our hospital for abdominal pain. He had a history of enterotomy with stone extraction for gallstone ileus. On abdominal computed tomography, a stone measuring 32 × 28 mm lodged in the jejunum was identified. He was diagnosed with gallstone ileus and treated using a nasal ileus tube. Four days after admission, computed tomography showed that the stone had passed into the rectum. The gallstone was spontaneously evacuated on the same day. A fistula with the gallbladder was found in the duodenal bulb. The patient's condition improved, and he was discharged 9 days after admission.
High HIV and active tuberculosis prevalence and increased mortality risk in adults with symptoms of TB: a systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Nliwasa Marriott , MacPherson Peter , Gupta‐Wright Ankur , Mwapasa Mphatso , Horton Katherine , Odland Jon Ø , Flach Clare , Corbett Elizabeth L.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

HIV and tuberculosis (TB) remain leading causes of preventable death in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends HIV testing for all individuals with TB symptoms, but implementation has been suboptimal. We conducted a systematic literature review and meta‐analyses to estimate HIV and TB prevalence, and short‐term (two to six months) mortality, among adults with TB symptoms at community‐ and facility level.

Methods

We searched Embase, Global Health and MEDLINE databases, and reviewed conference abstracts for studies reporting simultaneous HIV and TB screening of adults in LMICs published between January 2003 and December 2017. Meta‐analyses were performed to estimate prevalence of HIV, undiagnosed TB and mortality risk at different health system levels.

Results

Sixty‐two studies including 260,792 symptomatic adults were identified, mostly from Africa and Asia. Median HIV prevalence was 19.2% (IQR: 8.3% to 40.4%) at community level, 55.7% (IQR: 20.9% to 71.2%) at primary care level and 80.7% (IQR: 73.8% to 84.6%) at hospital level. Median TB prevalence was 6.9% (IQR: 3.3% to 8.4%) at community, 20.5% (IQR: 11.7% to 46.4%) at primary care and 36.4% (IQR: 22.9% to 40.9%) at hospital level. Median short‐term mortality was 22.6% (IQR: 15.6% to 27.7%) among inpatients, 3.1% (IQR: 1.2% to 4.2%) at primary care and 1.6% (95% CI: 0.45 to 4.13, n = 1 study) at community level.

Conclusions

Adults with TB symptoms have extremely high prevalence of HIV infection, even when identified through community surveys. TB prevalence and mortality increased substantially at primary care and inpatient level respectively. Strategies to expand symptom‐based TB screening combined with HIV and TB testing for all symptomatic individuals should be of the highest priority for both disease programmes in LMICs with generalized HIV epidemics. Interventions to reduce short‐term mortality are urgently needed.
Mitochondrial uncoupling prodrug improves tissue sparing, cognitive outcome, and mitochondrial bioenergetics after traumatic brain injury in male mice
Authors: Hubbard W. Brad , Harwood Christopher L. , Geisler John G. , Vekaria Hemendra J. , Sullivan Patrick G.
Published: August 2018

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in cognitive impairment, which can be long‐lasting after moderate to severe TBI. Currently, there are no FDA‐approved therapeutics to treat the devastating consequences of TBI and improve recovery. This study utilizes a prodrug of 2,4‐dinitrophenol, MP201, a mitochondrial uncoupler with extended elimination time, that was administered after TBI to target mitochondrial dysfunction, a hallmark of TBI. Using a model of cortical impact in male C57/BL6 mice, MP201 (80 mg/kg) was provided via oral gavage 2‐hr post‐injury and daily afterwards. At 25‐hr post‐injury, mice were euthanized and the acute rescue of mitochondrial bioenergetics was assessed demonstrating a significant improvement in both the ipsilateral cortex and ipsilateral hippocampus after treatment with MP201. Additionally, oxidative markers, 4‐hydroxyneneal and protein carbonyls, were reduced compared to vehicle animals after MP201 administration. At 2‐weeks post‐injury, mice treated with MP201 post‐injury (80 mg/kg; q.d.) displayed significantly increased cortical sparing (p = .0059; 38% lesion spared) and improved cognitive outcome (p = .0133) compared to vehicle‐treated mice. Additionally, vehicle‐treated mice had significantly lower (p = .0019) CA3 neuron count compared to sham while MP201‐treated mice were not significantly different from sham levels. These results suggest that acute mitochondrial dysfunction can be targeted to impart neuroprotection from reactive oxygen species, but chronic administration may have an added benefit in recovery. This study highlights the potential for safe, effective therapy by MP201 to alleviate negative outcomes of TBI.
Identity work in organizations and occupations: Definitions, theories, and pathways forward
Authors: Caza Brianna Barker , Vough Heather , Puranik Harshad
Published: August 2018

Understanding how, why, and when individuals create particular self‐meanings has preoccupied scholars for decades, leading to an explosion of research on identity work. We conducted a wide‐ranging review of this literature with the aim of presenting an overarching framework that comprehensively summarizes and integrates the vast amount of recent research in this domain. Drawing on our analysis of the empirical literature, we present an enhanced conceptual understanding of identity work. We then summarize the four dominant theoretical approaches researchers have used to explain how, when, and why individuals engage in identity work. This side‐by‐side comparison of these theoretical perspectives allows us to parse out the unique contribution of each theoretical lens and highlights how these theories can be integrated into a holistic view of an inherently multifaceted concept. Lastly, we critically analyze the state of the field and lay a detailed roadmap for future researchers to draw from to expand our current understanding of how individuals work on their identities in occupations and organizations.
Improved S‐adenosylmethionine and glutathione biosynthesis by heterologous expression of an ATP6 gene in Candida utilis
Authors: Xu Ruoyang , Wang Dahui , Wang Chonglong , Zhang Gaochuan , Wei Gongyuan
Published: August 2018

ATP is indispensable to the biosynthesis of both S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) and glutathione (GSH) in yeast cells. To improve ATP supply for overproduction of SAM and GSH in Candida utilis CCTCC M 209298, an exogenous ATP6 gene from Arabidopsis thaliana was expressed in the parental strain to construct the mutant C. utilis ATP6 by genomic integration. The maximal production of SAM and GSH in the mutant increased by 46.6 and 28.7%, respectively, when compared with those obtained in the parental strain. The mechanism underlying improved SAM and GSH biosynthesis by exogenous ATP6 gene expression revealed that the mutant had higher activities of key enzymes involved in SAM and GSH biosynthesis as well as energy metabolism. Increased NADH availability and F0F1‐ATPase activity subsequently resulted in improved ATP regeneration and intracellular ATP supply for SAM and GSH overproduction. The present study not only developed an effective method for improving SAM and GSH biosynthesis by energy metabolism regulation, but also offered a novel approach for efficient production of similar energy‐consuming products in eukaryotic cells.
Magnetic‐covalent organic polymer solid‐phase extraction coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography for the sensitive determination of fluorescent whitening agents in cosmetics
Authors: Xia Ling , Chen Xiaoman , Xiao Xiaohua , Li Gongke
Published: August 2018

Magnetic solid‐phase extraction is a powerful sample preparation tool. Combined with covalent organic polymers, this technique permits an excellent extraction performance. We present a sensitive, efficient, and easy operating magnetic‐ covalent organic polymer solid‐phase extraction method. By using the magnetic covalent organic polymer nanoparticles yielded by a one‐pot reaction, five fluorescent whitening agents were successfully preconcentrated and separated. The saturated extraction amounts of the magnetic covalent organic polymer nanoparticles for the five fluorescent whitening agents were in the range of 97–155 nmol/mg. Coupled with high‐performance liquid chromatography, the limit of detection of the fluorescent whitening agent was improved by at least an order of magnitude compared to current literature records. Under the optimal conditions, the linear ranges of these five fluorescent whitening agents were up to 0.5–100 ng/L, the limit of detection was as low as 0.1 ng/L, and the recoveries were in the range of 78.2–105% with relative standard deviations lower than 5.5%. Meanwhile, a trace level of 7‐diethylamino‐4‐methylcoumarin was found in a typical cosmetic sample by using this magnetic‐covalent organic polymer solid‐phase extraction method when coupling with high‐performance liquid chromatography. Moreover, this sensitive, efficient, and easy operating sample preparation method can be extended to analysis of other analytes that have a π–π conjugated structure.
“Zylon” Aerogels
Authors: Chen Meiling , Wang Daolin , Yue Mingli , Lin Xiankun , Yang Ming , He Qiang
Published: August 2018

Ultralight materials with challenging combinations of properties such as high mechanical stiffness at low density, high thermal and environmental stabilities, are hard to achieve. Here, poly(p‐phenylene benzobisoxazole) (PBO) nanofibers derived from “super” fibers (Zylon) are assembled into a robust 3D porous structure, forming aerogels with integrated performance surpassing previously existing polymeric aerogels. “Zylon” aerogel has a specific compressive modulus of 72 MPa g−1 cm3 at a density as low as 32 mg cm−3, low thermal conductivity (0.045 W m−1 K−1) at 500 °C, and an intrinsic moisture resistance. PBO nanofibers also empower “Zylon” aerogels with high thermal stability up to 692 °C, a near‐zero thermal expansion coefficient, and a superior fire‐retardant capability. These attractive multiparameter properties make “Zylon” aerogels highly competitive lightweight construction structures. The use of polymeric assembly units with intrinsic demanding characteristics represents an essential pathway toward rationalizing the design of high‐performance aerogels.
Electrospun Mats: From White to Transparent with a Drop
Authors: Cimadoro Jonathan , Ribba Laura , Ledesma Silvia , Goyanes Silvia
Published: August 2018

In this article, the transparency of hydrophilic electrospun mats is studied. Results showing how transmittance varies under the action of water are presented. It is observed that swelling plays a crucial role in the transmittance of the material, changing it from opaque to transparent when it is wet. Atomic force microscope measurements show that the diameter distribution of nanofibers is modified during both the wetting and the drying of the mats. Using these distributions and modeling the change in the relative refractive index as a composite material, a qualitative explanation of the mat scattering behavior by using the Mie scattering theory for cylinders has been done. The obtained results indicate that changes on the optical response produced by water contact are different according to the mat thickness: samples with smaller thicknesses can act as a water sensor with a persistent response over time, while samples with thicknesses greater than 7 µm can act as sensors for drying time.
Remark on the regularity criteria via partial components of vorticity to the Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Ye Zhuan
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we establish several improved regularity criteria via partial components of vorticity to the incompressible Navier‐Stokes equations in higher dimensions. Our result is a further improvement of the recent result given by Tsurumi [extension criterion via partial components of vorticity on strong solutions to the Navier‐Stokes equations in higher dimensions, J. Differential Equations 263 (2017), 4007‐4022].
Which molecular targets do we need to focus on to improve lower urinary tract dysfunction? ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Andersson Karl‐Erik , Fry Christopher , Panicker Jalesh , Rademakers Kevin
Published: August 2018

Aims

Update on some molecular targets for new drugs to improve lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction.

Methods

Using PubMed, a search for literature on molecular targets in the LUT was performed to identify relevant clinical and animal studies. Keywords were entered as Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) or as text words. The Mesh terms were used in various combinations and usually included the terms lower urinary AND pharmacology. Other Mesh term included: bladder, urethra, CNS, physiology, afferent activity, ATP, prostanoids, cannabinoids, fibrosis. Search results were assessed for their overall relevance to this review.

Results

In a normal bladder, ATP contributes little to detrusor contraction, but in a diseased bladder ATP may contribute to OAB. Selective decrease of ATP release via adenosine A1 receptor stimulation offers a potential treatment possibility. Candidates for relaxation of the smooth muscle of the urethra can be found among, for example, the receptor subtypes of PGE2, and PGD2. Drugs for relaxation of the striated sphincter can target the muscle directly or the spinal sphincter control. Fibrosis is a major problem in LUT dysfunction and agents with an inhibitory effect on the TGFβ pathway, for example relaxin and BMP7, may be promising avenues. Available drugs with a CNS site of action are often limited by low efficacy or adverse effects. Inhibitors of the glycine receptor Gly‐T2 or antagonists of the adenosine A2 receptor may be new alternatives.

Conclusion

New molecular targets for drugs aiming at improvement of voiding function can be identified, but their translational impact remains to be established.
How can we develop a more clinically useful and robust algorithm for diagnosing and treating nocturia? ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Everaert Karel , Hervé François , Bower Wendy , Djurhuus Jens C. , Dmochowski Roger , Fine Noam , Wein Alan , Wyndaele Michel , Weiss Jeffrey
Published: August 2018

Aims

Nocturia, or waking up at night to void, is a highly prevalent and bothersome symptom. Currently, there is a lack of clear and consistent recommendations regarding evaluation and management of nocturia. The aim of this report is to discuss how to fill the gaps in our knowledge in order to develop a practical patient‐oriented diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm for nocturia.

Methods

This paper is a report of the presentations and subsequent discussion of a Think Tank session at the annual International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI‐RS) in June 2017 in Bristol.

Results and Conclusion

Further investigations are needed to better understand the pathophysiology of nocturia, to allow improvement in diagnosis, and to optimize treatment by increasing efficacy and reducing adverse events. Patient‐oriented practical guidelines on nocturia are needed to help clinicians from different disciplines diagnose and treat nocturia.
Do we understand voiding dysfunction in women? Current understanding and future perspectives: ICI‐RS 2017
Authors: Panicker Jalesh N. , Anding Ralf , Arlandis Salvador , Blok Bertil , Dorrepaal Caroline , Harding Chris , Marcelissen Tom , Rademakers Kevin , Abrams Paul , Apostolidis Apostolos
Published: August 2018

Aims

Urinary retention in women is poorly understood, compared to the equivalent condition in men, and was the subject of a dedicated session organized at the International Consultation on Incontinence Research Society (ICI‐RS) in Bristol, United Kingdom, 2017.

Methods

The current understanding of the pathophysiological correlates of idiopathic voiding dysfunction in women, the role of urodynamics, neurophysiology, and non‐invasive tests in characterizing functional bladder outlet obstruction due to a non‐relaxing urethral sphincter, and poorly defined diagnosis of detrusor underactivity were reviewed.

Results

Putative factors underlying the pathogenesis of urinary retention following urinary tract infections were discussed. Further research is required to explore the association between bladder wall inflammation and alterations in detrusor contractile functions. The complex interrelationship between urinary retention and psychological co‐morbidities and sexual trauma were explored, and the overlap between these and psychological co‐morbidities and functional neurological problems with functional urological problems were recognized. Understanding the mechanism of action of sacral neuromodulation, often a successful treatment for urinary retention, would provide insight into the underlying factors that may be responsible for urinary retention. Specifically, there is a need to understand the role of the endogenous enkephalinergic system in the pathogenesis of urinary retention and to identify predictors of successful treatment with sacral neuromodulation. Based on current understanding and potential directions of research in the future, an algorithm for the evaluation of women with voiding dysfunction was proposed.

Conclusions

In the future, recommendations for research should lead to a better understanding of urinary retention in women and its treatment.
Incorporation of palm oil polyol in shape memory polyurethane: Implication for development of cardiovascular stent
Authors: Ahmad Zubir Syazana , Mat Saad Norshahli , Harun Farah Wahida , Ali Ernie Suzana , Ahmad Sahrim
Published: August 2018

Shape memory polyurethanes (SMPU) are one of the advanced materials that have potential applications in the field of biomedical particularly vascular stent. This paper studies the effect of incorporating palm oil polyol (POP) up to 40% molar ratio in place of petroleum‐based polyol in the preparation of SMPU due to environmental concern. Polycaprolactone diol was utilized as the soft segment while 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate and 1,4‐butanediol as the hard segments. The SMPU was prepared using two‐step prepolymer method, and the fabricated samples were characterized to study the effect of POP on the thermal properties, tensile, and shape memory behavior of polyurethane. The results obtained have shown that SMPU with incorporation of POP showed good shape fixity (100%) and elongation at break (245%) up to 20% molar ratio of POP. The presence of dangling chains of fatty acid in POP was believed to enhance the flexibility of SMPU molecular chains by acting as a plasticizer. On the other hand, the shape recovery of SMPU remains high even at 40% molar ratio of POP, and the thermal stability of SMPU increased with the addition of POP. It is proposed that the synthesized POP‐based SMPU is a suitable candidate for cardiovascular stent as they possessed desired thermal, mechanical, and shape memory properties.
Masking by vaccines in pediatric drug safety signal detection in the EudraVigilance database
Authors: Dodd Caitlin , Pacurariu Alexandra , Osokogu Osemeke U. , Weibel Daniel , Ferrajolo Carmen , Vo Dang H. , Becker Benedikt , Kors Jan A. , Sturkenboom Miriam
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Postmarketing drug safety surveillance relies upon measures of disproportionate reporting in spontaneous reporting systems. It has been hypothesized that products or events reported frequently may “mask” signals.

Methods

We analyzed the masking effect of vaccines in pediatrics in the EudraVigilance database by conducting disproportionality analysis in the full database (containing vaccine exposures) and in a restricted set (excluding vaccine exposures). We measured performance of the reporting odds ratio (ROR) in both data sets using a pediatric‐specific drug reference set and in the absence of a reference set. We assessed masking effects across age groups and conducted a classification tree (CART) analysis.

Results

Removal of vaccines decreased the ROR values both in negative and positive controls. Exceptions were drug‐event combinations including outcomes frequent in vaccine reports. When restricted to positive control associations, removal of vaccine‐related events resulted in increased ROR values for events commonly reported following vaccination. For events rarely associated with vaccination, ROR values decreased for all age groups, especially infants. Analysis in the absence of a reference set showed decrease in ROR following vaccine removal and CART revealed that change in ROR with vaccine removal depended upon age and proportion of reports including a vaccine.

Conclusions

Removal of vaccines for signal detection in a pediatric population has an impact on ROR, dependent upon the reporting frequency of the event of interest in combination with vaccines. We recommend stratification by age and removal of vaccine exposures if the investigated adverse drug reactions include those typically reported in association with vaccines for the age strata.
Spatial‐temporal distributions of ROS in model tissues treated by a He+O2 plasma jet
Authors: Liu Dingxin , He Tongtong , Liu Zhijie , Wang Sui , Liu Zhichao , Rong Mingzhe , Kong Michael G.
Published: August 2018

The transportation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) to lesion site through human tissue is crucial for plasma medicine. For this reason, the spatial‐temporal distributions of ROS in model tissues irradiated by a He + O2 plasma jet were investigated in this paper. It was found that the ROS formed a ring‐shaped surface pattern on the model tissue, of which the diameter increased with the gas flow rate but remained unchanged with the plasma treatment time. The surface pattern changed significantly with the inclination angle of plasma irradiation, suggesting that the ROS dosage is difficult to precisely control for clinical applications. Moreover, the penetration depth of O3 increased linearly with the plasma treatment time or the water content of the model tissue.
Uniformly most powerful Bayesian interval design for phase I dose‐finding trials
Authors: Lin Ruitao , Yin Guosheng
Published: August 2018

Interval designs have recently attracted much attention in phase I clinical trials because of their simplicity and desirable finite‐sample performance. However, existing interval designs typically cannot converge to the optimal dose level since their intervals do not shrink to the target toxicity probability as the sample size increases. The uniformly most powerful Bayesian test (UMPBT) is an objective Bayesian hypothesis testing procedure, which results in the largest probability that the Bayes factor against null hypothesis exceeds the evidence threshold for all possible values of the data generating parameter. On the basis of the rejection region of UMPBT, we develop the uniformly most powerful Bayesian interval (UMPBI) design for phase I dose‐finding trials. The proposed UMPBI design enjoys convergence properties because the induced interval indeed shrinks to the toxicity target and the recommended dose converges to the true maximum tolerated dose as the sample size increases. Moreover, it possesses an optimality property that the probability of incorrect decisions is minimized. We conduct simulation studies to demonstrate the competitive finite‐sample operating characteristics of the UMPBI in comparison with other existing interval designs. As an illustration, we apply the UMPBI design to a panitumumab and standard gemcitabine‐based chemoradiation combination trial.
Bayesian dose‐finding phase I trial design incorporating pharmacokinetic assessment in the field of oncology
Authors: Takeda Kentaro , Komatsu Kanji , Morita Satoshi
Published: August 2018

The main purpose of a phase I dose‐finding study in the field of oncology is to evaluate toxicity and pharmacokinetic (PK) data and to estimate the optimal dose (OD) for subsequent clinical trials. From a pharmacological perspective, PK information is considered as an appropriate indicator for evaluating the degree of drug intervention in humans. Dose proportionality is typically assessed to investigate the PK properties of a drug. If we rely solely on the dose‐exposure relationship, then when this relationship is not proportional, eg, if there is saturation of drug elimination or absorption, the performance of OD selection may be affected. This may be because any exposure ratio between two dose levels differs from the dose ratio between the dose levels. In addition, large inter‐individual variability in exposure affects the occurrence of toxicity. Therefore, incorporating PK assessment in a phase I dose‐finding trial may enable us to more precisely estimate OD. In most oncology dose‐finding clinical trials, however, the result of PK analysis is not explicitly incorporated in the dose‐finding determination analysis. In this study, we propose a Bayesian approach to incorporating PK assessment into OD estimation in a dose‐finding trial. Our proposed approach incorporates into the statistical model an adjustment based on the latest area under the time‐concentration curve assessment. The simulation study shows that compared with standard methods, the proposed method may be better able to select the correct ODs across a variety of realistic settings.
The influence of stretch wrap containment force on load bridging in unit loads
Authors: Park Jonghun , Horvath Laszlo , White Marshall , Araman Philip , Bush Robert J.
Published: August 2018

The term “load bridging” describes a phenomenon in which the physical interaction between various packaging components acts as a series of discrete loads in a given unit load and adds stiffness to the shipping pallet/load combination. Current pallet design practices often ignore the aspect of load bridging and assume that the pallet payload is flexible and uniformly distributed over the pallet surface. This can influence the load‐carrying capacity of the pallet. The study reported in this paper investigated the relationship between the stretch wrap containment force and load bridging in unit loads and the resulting unit‐load deflection. The experimental results of this study indicate that an increase in the stretch wrap containment force can improve the unit‐load deflection by as much as 81%. The influence of the stretch wrap containment force on pallet deflection is greatest for small packages and pallets with low stiffness. These experimental results provide useful information for realizing more efficient and sustainable unit‐load designs.
The consequences of neglecting permutation symmetry in the description of many‐electrons systems
Authors: Nascimento Marco Antonio Chaer
Published: August 2018

The consequences of neglecting the permutation symmetry of the Hamiltonian of many‐electrons system are examined. From the comparison of wave functions based on methods, which take (generalized valence bond [GVB]) and do not take (Hartree‐Fock) the permutation symmetry into account, it is shown that neglecting the permutation symmetry leads to false concepts, misinterpretations, and unjustifiable approximations when dealing with many‐electrons systems, atoms, and molecules. In particular, it is shown that how the double occupancy of atomic and molecular orbitals, the exchange integral, the correlation energy, and the so‐called “nondynamic” correlation energy are related to neglecting the permutation symmetry.
Influencing the Fate of Cardiac and Neural Stem Cell Differentiation Using Small Molecule Inhibitors of ALK5
Authors: Zhong Qixing , Laco Filip , Liao Mei-Chih , Woo Tsung L. , Oh Steve K.W. , Chai Christina L.L.
Published: August 2018

In this study, 50 tri-substituted imidazoles (TIs), which are analogs of the small molecules TA-01 and SB203580, were synthesized and screened for cardiomyogenic activities. Several TIs displayed cardiomyogenic activities when applied during the differentiation from days 3–5. The TIs did not affect the Wnt/β-catenin pathway during cardiomyogenesis and the likely mechanism of action is through the inhibition of ALK5 of the TGFβ pathway. Interestingly, these TIs promoted the neural differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) with a similar potency to that of the dual SMAD inhibitors SB431542/LDN-193189 when dosed from days 1 to 9. The neural induction activities of the TIs correlated with their ALK5 inhibitory activities. This study reports the discovery of small molecule inhibitors of ALK5, which can promote the differentiation of hPSCs into cardiomyocytes or neural cells depending on the time of dosing, showing potential for the production of clinical-grade cardiac/neural cells for regenerative therapy.
Using cooperative game theory to contribute to strategy research
Authors: Ross David Gaddis
Published: August 2018

Research Summary

A growing literature uses cooperative game theory to develop formal strategy theories of value creation and value capture. In a recent review, Gans and Ryall () provide an introduction to this literature in which they emphasize the biform modeling framework of Brandenburger and Stuart (, ). The purpose of this article is to extend the work of Gans and Ryall () by (a) discussing the many ways that cooperative game theory and allied models can contribute to strategy research beyond the biform framework itself, and (b) offering recommendations for choosing among formal modeling options, both cooperative and noncooperative.

Managerial Summary

Growing numbers of strategy scholars are using cooperative game theory to study strategic interaction and develop practical tools for managers, because it offers the mathematical precision of traditional formal modeling techniques while imposing fewer constraints on the actions of firms and managers. Gans and Ryall () review cooperative game theory, with a particular focus on a version developed by Brandenburger and Stuart (, ). This article extends Gans and Ryall () by discussing the many additional ways that cooperative game theory can contribute to strategy research and how to choose between cooperative game theory and other formal modeling methods.
Demand variation, strategic flexibility and market entry: Evidence from the U.S. airline industry
Authors: Claussen Jörg , Essling Christian , Peukert Christian
Published: August 2018

Research Summary

Entry into dynamic environments can be challenging for firms. We study if, and under which circumstances, firms can use strategic flexibility to enter markets with variable demand. In the airline industry, we find broad support for our hypotheses. We observe less entry with more demand variation, more entry of more flexible firms, and that more flexible firms are more likely to enter markets with greater variation in demand. Furthermore, we find that this relationship is especially strong when variation in demand is harder to predict, which suggests that strategic flexibility is most valuable in unpredictable turbulent environments.

Managerial Summary

We show that firms in the airline industry that choose strategic flexibility over operational efficiency are more likely to enter volatile markets. This finding is especially true when future demand is difficult to forecast using historical data. We conclude that strategic flexibility can be a useful complement to investments in business analytics.
The effect of wrist angle on ulnar nerve appearance at Guyon's canal in asymptomatic individuals utilising high‐resolution sonography
Authors: Mulholland Janet M.
Published: August 2018

Introduction

Focal ulnar nerve compression neuropathy within Guyon's canal in the wrist is an infrequent but debilitating condition often termed Guyon's canal syndrome. Being difficult to diagnose, it has been linked to altered wrist postures, such as in cyclists. The research aim was to determine the effect of wrist angle on ulnar nerve appearance at Guyon's canal utilising high‐resolution sonography.

Methods

Fifty‐one asymptomatic volunteers underwent a sonographic examination of the ulnar nerve with the wrist held in neutral, 30° flexion and 30° extension. Parameters studied included cross‐sectional area, antero‐posterior diameter, transverse diameter and a flattening ratio of the ulnar nerve.

Results

The antero‐posterior diameter of the ulnar nerve increases, whilst the transverse diameter decreases with changes in wrist posture from neutral to both flexion and extension. The cross‐sectional area is lower, and the flattening ratio is greater in the neutral compared to non‐neutral wrist positions.

Discussion

The non‐neutral wrist positions result in deformation of the ulnar nerve within Guyon's canal. The ulnar nerve forms a more cylindrical and less ovoid cross‐sectional shape with changes in wrist angle. Wrists containing accessory muscles overlying Guyon's canal behave in a similar manner.
Space-time in the SYK model
Authors: Das Sumit R. , Ghosh Animik , Jevicki Antal , Suzuki Kenta
Published: August 2018

Abstract

We consider the question of identifying the bulk space-time of the SYK model. Focusing on the signature of emergent space-time of the (Euclidean) model, we explain the need for non-local (Radon-type) transformations on external legs of n-point Green’s functions. This results in a dual theory with Euclidean AdS signature with additional legfactors. We speculate that these factors incorporate the coupling of additional bulk states similar to the discrete states of 2d string theory.
Judicial Reasoning and Review in the Indonesian Supreme Court
Authors: BUTT Simon
Published: August 2018

This article describes and critiques the judicial reasoning of Indonesia’s Supreme Court, through the lens of the Court’s reviews of subnational laws during 2011–17. The resulting picture is a negative one. Most of the Court’s decisions were critically flawed, with either very little or no reasoning, and inconsistencies with past decisions. Worse, the Court appears keen to avoid hearing important cases that raise difficult political issues, even though the law governing those issues is clear and easy to apply. These inadequacies are perpetuated by genuine uncertainty about the precise jurisdiction of the Court in judicial review cases. However, the Court has not sought to resolve this uncertainty. Indeed, these decisions appear to reflect a court paying little regard to judicial transparency and accountability, and unwilling or unable to act as an effective check on government power.