bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of cellulose acetate/gamma‐cyclodextrin MOF based mixed matrix membranes for CO2/CH4 gas separation
Authors: Mehmood Ovaid , Farrukh Sarah , Hussain Arshad , Younas Mohammad , Salahuddin Zarrar , Pervaiz Erum , Ayoub Muhammad
Published: February 2021

This work is aimed to investigate the permeation characteristic of CA/γ‐CD‐metal organic framework (MOF) based mixed matrix membranes (MMM) for CO2/CH4 separation. The defect‐free CA/γ‐CD‐MOF MMMs with dense, isotropic morphology were fabricated using solution casting method. The fabricated membranes were characterized through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), ultimate tensile testing, and contact angle measurements. The characterization techniques revealed the uniform dispersion of filler in cellulose acetate matrix and absence of the agglomerates or cracks in the synthesized membrane samples. Moreover, the CO2/CH4 separation performance of fabricated membrane was evaluated using single and mixed gas permeation tests. A general trend of decreasing permeability and selectivity, that is, 36.79–35 of both CO2 and CH4 was observed by increasing the filler weight percentage (0.2–1.0) and pressure (1–5 bar). However, the highest CO2/CH4 selectivity of 38.49 was achieved by CA/γ‐CD‐MOF 0.4wt% MMM. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early versus late oral feeding following total (pharyngo)laryngectomy: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Milinis Kristijonas , Gaskell Peter , Lau Andrew , Lancaster Jeffrey , Jones Terry
Published: February 2021

Timing of oral feeding following total laryngectomy is a contentious issue with highly varied practices. Multiple database search was performed to identify studies comparing outcomes of early (≤5 days) versus late (>5 days) oral feeding. Bias assessment was carried out using Cochrane bias tool. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was used. The review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. The rate of pharyngocutaneous fistula (PCF) in randomized control trials (RCTs) in early versus late feeding was 15.2% versus 11.7% (RR 1.35, 95%CI [0.68–2.7], p = 0.40). The rate of PCF in the cohort studies was 14.1% versus 20.5% (RR 1.0, 95%CI [0.76–1.3], p = 0.98). The length of hospital stay was significantly shorter in the early feeding group (mean difference (days) −4.68 (−6.2 to −3.1, p < 0.0001). Early oral feeding appears to be safe and is associated with shorter hospital stay. However, the quality of evidence is low and the patient characteristics are not representative of current practices.
Oral propranolol therapy in parotid hemangiomas: A retrospective comparison with other infantile hemangiomas
Authors: Wang Luying , Li Shaohua , Gao Qianqian , Lv Renrong , Xu Guangqi , Li Xueqing , Bi Jianhai , Huo Ran
Published: February 2021

Background

The outcomes of propranolol treatment remain controversial for parotid hemangiomas, which may be inferior to outcomes for infantile hemangiomas (IHs) at other sites.

Methods

Patients with IHs treated with oral propranolol were retrospectively reviewed. Outcomes of propranolol therapy for parotid hemangiomas and other IHs were examined. Regression models were conducted to analyze the factors associated with the outcomes for parotid hemangiomas.

Results

Longer treatment duration was needed for parotid hemangiomas (p = 0.012) at a comparable efficacy and relapse rate as those of IHs at other sites. The higher efficacy was associated with early intervention before 4 months of age (OR = 5.2, p = 0.011), while, the lower relapse rate was associated with adequate treatment duration over 6 months (OR = 9.2, p = 0.010).

Conclusions

With a longer propranolol treatment duration, parotid hemangiomas could achieve a comparable efficacy and relapse rate as other IHs. Early treatment initiation and adequate treatment duration benefited the outcomes.
Tracheoesophageal puncture closure with annular mucosal flap
Authors: Yavuz Haluk , Vural Omer
Published: February 2021

Background

To present an effective and easily applicable method for tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) closure by using a localized annular flap instead of bulky and distant flaps.

Methods

The medical records of patients who underwent TEP closure surgery with the annular mucosal flap technique between July 2012 and August 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Fistula size, indication for closure, duration of surgery, radiotherapy status, and surgery results were analyzed.

Results

We have used our technique in nine patients. No postoperative bleeding, wound infection, esophageal stenosis, and tracheostoma stenosis occurred. In all these patients except one, successful closure was achieved. None of the patients had a recurrence of the TEP.

Conclusion

The annular mucosal flap technique for TEP closure is easy and quick to apply. The patient's oral feeding at the sixth hour after procedure without using a nasogastric tube makes the technique preferable as a priority.
Characterizing postoperative physiologic swallow function following transoral robotic surgery for early stage tonsil, base of tongue, and unknown primary human papillomavirus‐associated squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ottenstein Lauren , Cornett Hannah , Switchenko Jeffrey M. , Nathan Meghana , Thomas Susan , Gillespie Amanda I. , McColloch Nancy , Barrett Tiffany , Studer Matthew B. , Brinkman Meghan , Kaka Azeem S. , Boyce Brian J. , Ferris Robert L. , Aiken Ashley H. , El‐Deiry Mark , Beitler Jonathan J. , Patel Mihir R.
Published: February 2021

Background

Data objectively evaluating acute post‐transoral robotic surgery (TORS) swallow function are limited. Our goal was to characterize and identify clinical variables that may impact swallow function components 3 weeks post‐TORS.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study. Pre/postoperative use of the Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP) and Penetration‐Aspiration Scale (PAS) was completed on 125 of 139 TORS patients (2016–2019) with human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Dynamic Imaging Grade of Swallowing Toxicity (DIGEST) scores were retrospectively calculated. Uni/multivariate analysis was performed.

Results

Dysfunctional pre‐TORS DIGEST scores were predictive of post‐TORS dysphagia (p = 0.015). Pre‐TORS MBSImP deficits in pharyngeal stripping wave, swallow initiation, and clearing pharyngeal residue correlated with airway invasion post‐TORS based on PAS scores (p = 0.012, 0.027, 0.048, respectively). Multivariate analysis of DIGEST safety scores declined with older age (p = 0.044). Odds ratios (ORs) for objective swallow function components after TORS were better for unknown primary and tonsil primaries compared to base of tongue (BOT) (OR 0.35–0.91).

Conclusions

Preoperative impairments in specific MBSImP components, older patients, and BOT primaries may predict more extensive recovery in swallow function after TORS.
Exosome-Like Nanoparticles From Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG Protect Against Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease Through Intestinal Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Mice
Authors: Gu Zelin , Li Fengyuan , Liu Yunhuan , Jiang Mengwei , Zhang Lihua , He Liqing , Wilkey Daniel W. , Merchant Michael , Zhang Xiang , Deng Zhong-Bin , Chen Shao-Yu , Barve Shirish , McClain Craig J. , Feng Wenke
Published: February 2021

Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of mortality. Gut barrier dysfunction–induced bacterial translocation and endotoxin release contribute to the pathogenesis of ALD. Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is known to be beneficial on experimental ALD by reinforcing the intestinal barrier function. In this study, we aim to investigate whether the protective effects of LGG on intestinal barrier function is mediated by exosome-like nanoparticles (ELNPs) released by LGG. Intestinal epithelial cells and macrophages were treated with LGG-derived ELNPs (LDNPs) isolated from LGG culture. LDNPs increased tight junction protein expression in epithelial cells and protected from the lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory response in macrophages. Three-day oral application of LDNPs protected the intestine from alcohol-induced barrier dysfunction and the liver from steatosis and injury in an animal model of ALD. Co-administration of an aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) inhibitor abolished the protective effects of LDNPs, indicating that the effects are mediated, at least in part, by intestinal AhR signaling. We further demonstrated that LDNP administration increased intestinal interleukin-22-Reg3 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)–tight junction signaling pathways, leading to the inhibition of bacterial translocation and endotoxin release in ALD mice. This protective effect was associated with LDNP enrichment of bacterial tryptophan metabolites that are AhR agonists. Conclusions: Our results suggest that the beneficial effects of LGG and their supernatant in ALD are likely mediated by bacterial AhR ligand–enriched LDNPs that increase Reg3 and Nrf2 expression, leading to the improved barrier function. These findings provide a strategy for the treatment of ALD and other gut barrier dysfunction–associated diseases.
The Patient’s Perspective in Cirrhosis: Unmet Supportive Care Needs Differ by Disease Severity, Etiology, and Age
Authors: Valery Patricia C. , Bernardes Christina M. , Mckillen Benjamin , Amarasena Samath , Stuart Katherine A. , Hartel Gunter , Clark Paul J. , Skoien Richard , Rahman Tony , Horsfall Leigh , Hayward Kelly , Gupta Rohit , Lee Andrew , Pillay Leshni , Powell Elizabeth E.
Published: February 2021

Patients with cirrhosis have significant physical, psychological, and practical needs. We documented patients’ perceived need for support with these issues and the differences with increasing liver disease severity, etiology, and age. Using the supportive needs assessment tool for cirrhosis (SNAC), we examined the rate of moderate-to-high unmet needs (Poisson regression; incidence rate ratio [IRR]) and the correlation between needs and sociodemographic/clinical characteristics (multivariable linear regression) in 458 Australians adults with cirrhosis. Primary liver disease etiology was alcohol in 37.6% of patients, chronic viral hepatitis C in 25.5%, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in 23.8%. A total of 64.6% of patients had Child-Pugh class A cirrhosis. Most patients (81.2%) had at least one moderate-to-high unmet need item; more than 25% reported a moderate-to-high need for help with “lack of energy,” “sleep poorly,” “feel unwell,” “worry about … illness getting worse (liver cancer),” “have anxiety/stress,” and “difficulty with daily tasks.” Adjusting for key sociodemographic/clinical factors, patients with Child-Pugh C had a greater rate of “practical and physical needs” (vs. Child-Pugh A; IRR = 2.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.57-3.37), patients with NAFLD/NASH had a greater rate of needs with “lifestyle changes” (vs. alcohol; IRR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.18-2.77) and “practical and physical needs” (IRR = 1.43, 95% CI 1.23-1.65), and patients aged ≥65 years had fewer needs overall (vs. 18-64 years; IRR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.64-0.76). Higher overall SNAC scores were associated with Child-Pugh B and C (both P < 0.001), NAFLD/NASH (P = 0.028), patients with “no partner, do not live alone” (P = 0.004), unemployment (P = 0.039), ascites (P = 0.022), and dyslipidemia (P = 0.024) compared with their counterparts. Conclusion: Very high levels of needs were reported by patients with cirrhosis. This information is important to tailor patient-centered care and facilitate timely interventions or referral to support services.
Expression of reelin with age in the human hippocampal formation
Authors: Despotovski Vanessa , Vivekanandarajah Arunnjah , Waters Karen A. , Machaalani Rita
Published: February 2021

Reelin plays a key role in neuronal migration and lamination in the cortex and hippocampus. Animal studies have shown that reelin expression decreases with age. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of reelin in all layers of the human hippocampal formation across three age groups. We used immunohistochemistry in formalin fixed and paraffin embedded hippocampal tissue from infants (1–10 months;n= 9), children (4–10 years;n= 4), and adults (45–60 years;n= 6) to stain for reelin. Expression was quantified (measured as the number of positive reelin cells/mm2) in the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus (DG), the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus (ML), the hippocampal fissure (HF), stratum lacunosum moleculare (SLM), CA4/Hilus and the stratum pyramidale layer of CA3, CA2, and CA1. Expression of reelin was highest in the HF irrespective of age, followed by the SLM and ML. Minimal to no expression was seen in the stratum pyramidale layer of CA1‐3. With age, reelin expression decreased and was statistically significant from infancy to childhood in the HF (p= .02). This study confirms that reelin expression decreases with age in the human hippocampus, and shows for the first time that the major decrease occurs between infancy and early childhood.
Training and practices of quack nurses in Nigeria: A public health concern
Authors: Aborode Abdullahi T. , Babatunde Abdulhammed O. , Agboola Progress
Published: February 2021

Training of quack nurses by health care workers across all levels in Nigeria is gradually becoming the new normal and major malpractice worsening the country's health care system. This article addresses the causes and effects of this malpractice. The proliferation of quackery in the nursing profession can be linked to many sources. This includes doctors and nurses' greed and selfishness in the need to make mega‐profits from practice in private hospitals and clinics; lack of political will and commitment towards the health sector; poor regulation and routine supervision by professional associations; ignorance and misinformation. Effects of training quacks include increase maternal and childhood mortality, increase unemployment rate of registered nurses and midwifery, discredit medical and nursing education, poor treatment outcome and weakened healthcare system. Recommended solutions are: improving state health insurance, improving financial coverage, enforcing the law against quackery and increase awareness in local communities.
Concurrent validity of the MacArthur communicative development inventory, the Ages and Stages Questionnaires and the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development: A study in rural China
Authors: Yue Ai , Luo Xia , Jia Miqi , Wang Boya , Gao Qiufeng , Shi Yaojiang , Wang Shun
Published: February 2021

We aimed to evaluate the validity of the Ages and Stages Questionnaires Edition 3 (ASQ‐3) and the MacArthur communicative development inventory (CDI) as a screening measure for children at risk of language development delay in western rural China, by comparing them to the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID‐III). We administered the BSID‐III on 1,079 children (aged 8–24 months) and administered the ASQ‐3 and the CDI to their caregivers. We found a significant, low‐to‐moderate correlation between the three scales. Further, correlation strength increased with age of the child and was stronger when the mother was the primary caregiver. We also found that the sensitivity and specificity of the ASQ‐3 ranged widely. The overall findings suggest that the ASQ‐3 and the CDI may not be very accurate screening tools for identifying language development delays in children, especially those under 17 months or whose primary caregiver is not their mother.

Highlights

We evaluated the accuracy of language sections of three scales (CDI, ASQ‐3 and BSID‐III) for rural children in western China.

Multiple methods were utilized and showed a significant, low‐to‐moderate correlation between the three scales.

Our findings revealed that both ASQ‐3 and CDI are not accurate screening tools for identifying language development delays in children.
A Phase I dose‐escalation study of two cycles carboplatin‐olaparib followed by olaparib monotherapy in patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Geenen Jill J. J. , Dackus Gwen M. H. E. , Schouten Philip C. , Pluim Dick , Marchetti Serena , Sonke Gabe S. , Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Huitema Alwin D. R. , Beijnen Jos H. , Schellens Jan H. M. , Linn Sabine C.
Published: February 2021

Preclinical studies have shown synergistic effects when combining PARP1/2 inhibitors and platinum drugs in BRCA1/2 mutated cancer cell models. After a formulation change of olaparib from capsules to tablets, we initiated a dose finding study of olaparib tablets bidaily (BID) continuously with carboplatin to prepare comparative studies in this patient group. Patients were included in a 3 + 3 dose‐escalation schedule: olaparib 25 mg BID and carboplatin area under the curve (AUC) 3 mg*min/mL d1/d22, olaparib 25 mg BID and carboplatin AUC 4 mg*min/mL d1/d22, followed by increasing dose‐levels of olaparib from 50 mg BID, 75 mg BID, to 100 mg BID with carboplatin at AUC 4 mg*min/mL d1/d22. After two cycles, patients continued olaparib 300 mg BID as monotherapy. Primary objective was to assess the maximum tolerable dose (MTD). Twenty‐four patients with a confirmed diagnosis of advanced cancer were included. Most common adverse events were nausea (46%), fatigue (33%) and platelet count decrease (33%). Dose‐level 3 (olaparib 75 mg BID and carboplatin AUC 4 mg*min/mL; n = 6) was defined as MTD. Fourteen out of 24 patients (56%) had a partial response as best response (RECIST 1.1). Systemic exposure of the olaparib tablet formulation appeared comparable to the previous capsule formulation with olaparib tablet AUC0‐12 of 16.3 μg/mL*h at MTD. Polymers of ADP‐ribose levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were reduced by 98.7% ± 0.14% at Day 8 compared to Day 1 for dose‐level 3. Olaparib tablets 75 mg BID and carboplatin AUC 4 mg*min/mL for two cycles preceding olaparib monotherapy 300 mg is a feasible and tolerable treatment schedule for patients with advanced cancer.
Evolving landscape and academic attitudes toward the controversies of global immuno‐oncology trials
Authors: Xu Cheng , Zhang Shu , Zhang Yuan , Tang Si‐Qi , Fang Xue‐Liang , Zhu Guang‐Li , Peng Liang , Liu Jin‐Qi , Mao Yan‐Ping , Tang Ling‐Long , Liu Qing , Lin Ai‐Hua , Sun Ying , Ma Jun
Published: February 2021

This cross‐sectional and longitudinal descriptive analysis aimed to track the evolving landscape of global immuno‐oncology (IO) trials and provide insight into the resolution of IO‐related controversies. Clinical trials (n = 4510) registered on ClinicalTrials.gov in 2007 to 2019 studying immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), adoptive cell transfer (ACT), cancer vaccines and immune modulators were included. Most of IO trials are Phase 2 and focus on ICIs and multiple IO therapies. The United States leads global IO research, with stable growth and the best methodological quality. Mainland China ranks first in the number of ACT trials but has the lowest article publication rate (6.2%). A multiple‐arm comparative design is often adopted in multiple IO therapies trials (44.0%). Trials studying ICIs and multiple IO therapies are likely to use early registration (80.0% and 86.6%) and stringent corticosteroid‐/infection‐related criteria. Hospitals have provided the most extensive and strongest support for all IO categories. Big pharma prefers to fund Phase 3‐4 ICI trials (6.98%), while small pharma has a wider sponsorship favoring Phase 1‐2 trials. The “partial‐use‐of‐corticosteroids” strategy is generally well accepted in ICI trials with a definitive trend (32.5%; P < .001) but is associated with the poor dissemination of results (P ≤ .020), while the complete disclosure and standardization of dose/timing limits are still lacking. Disparities in design features and dissemination of results are widespread in IO trials and are modulated by IO category, cancer type and sponsor. We propose policy reforms to redefine the timely publication of IO trials and standardize the resolution of corticosteroid‐/infection‐related issues.
Financial determinants of corporate credit ratings: An Indian evidence
Authors: Gupta Rahul
Published: February 2021

Credit rating is a vital tool in the hands of investors and other users. Standard mathematical formulas do not exist for determining credit ratings. Instead, rating agencies exercise their judgment and use their experience to determine what information is to be important in providing a rating. Thus, knowledge and understanding about factors influencing credit ratings is very crucial for companies being rated and other users. Most of the prior studies in related context have used developed countries' data, and the effect in emerging markets, especially in Indian context, is still unclear due to lack of such studies. So, this study attempts to identify the long‐term and short‐term financial determinants of credit ratings issued to Indian companies and examines their impact on credit ratings on the basis of panel data and cross‐sectional approaches. Ordered probit analysis is used with credit ratings as the dependent variable and six financial factors as the independent variables. Results indicate that size, profitability and leverage have a significant relationship with corporate credit ratings in both panel data and cross‐sectional approaches. Also, size has the highest impact on credit ratings followed by leverage and profitability in both the approaches. The major contribution of present study is that two different mathematical models are framed which have a reasonably well correct prediction percentage. These models can be used by the investors' academicians, practitioners and other users for predicting the rating categories of various companies and to get a fair idea about their creditworthiness and safety.
Gravity assessment of the impact of alliances on bilateral trade: A comparative analysis of ECOMOG and NATO
Authors: Azu Nnanna P. , Atta Mills Ebenezer Fiifi Emire , Akanegbu Benedict N.
Published: February 2021

The prevailing notion for this research is anchored on determining the magnitude of alliances as trade determinants. Alliances are segregated into defence pact, non‐aggressive alliance and entente, which additionally integrates as trade cost in a gravity model. The Poisson pseudo maximum likelihood technique is adopted for the analysis with country pair‐effects exploited. Even though literature acknowledged three different kinds of alliance formation, the homogenous effects as trade cost have not been previously examined. Authors found that alliances' response to bilateral trade is homogenous irrespective of conceptualization and operationalism. All categories of alliance positively influence bilateral trade but could be more effective as trade determinant when rooted in a regional trade agreement. The result is more convincing in the NATO sample than the ECOWAS sample, which could not be unconnected with the level of economic and technological development in both cases. Militarized inter‐state conflict should be discouraged irrespective of the cause due to its negative effect on bilateral trade, especially in the region of its occurrence.
An analysis of Conventional and Alternative financing—Customers' perspective
Authors: Gupta Megha , Verma Suhasini , Pachare Smita
Published: February 2021

Alternative financing is a phenomenon that has been gaining momentum since the last decade. It is a way of dealing with financial requirements on an online platform with or without the intervention of a third party. In India, Banking and Financial Services are moving from the traditional “one size fits all” approach to a more personalized service approach, with the help of financial technology. However, it is important to understand that the growth of any sector, especially the service sector depends upon the user's experience and their perception of the service. A better understanding of customer's perceptions and their experience can help financial organizations to strategize better in order to increase their market share and profitability. In this connection, this study aims at understanding the customer's adaptability, awareness, and perceived ease of use of Alternative Financing with reference to conventional financing. Primary as well as secondary data are collected for this purpose. The primary data were obtained from self‐administered questionnaire. Factor analysis is conducted to explore the factors, which contribute to the better involvement of customers towards Alternative Finance. This study tries to make an original contribution by assessing significant factors that prompt a customer to use alternative financial services. Results indicate a significant positive relationship between the factors and the growth of alternative finance. The results may help financial institutions to design the products and increased the use of IT in their operations to achieve the objectives.
Transfer learning networks with skip connections for classification of brain tumors
Authors: Alaraimi Saleh , Okedu Kenneth E. , Tianfield Hugo , Holden Richard , Uthmani Omair
Published: February 2021

This article presents a transfer learning model via convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with skip connection topology, to avoid the vanishing gradient and time complexity, which are usually common in transfer learning networks. Three pretrained CNN architectures, namely AlexNet, VGG16 and GoogLeNet are employed to equip with skip connections. The transfer learning is implemented through fine‐tuning and freezing the CNN architectures with skip connections based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slices of brain tumor dataset. Furthermore, in the preprocessing, a frequency‐domain information enhancement technique is employed for better image clarity. Performance evaluation is conducted on the transfer learning networks with skip connections to obtain improved accuracy in brain MRI classifications.
A novel intuitionistic fuzzy soft set based colonogram enhancement for polyps localization
Authors: Ghosh Swarup Kr , Ghosh Anupam
Published: February 2021

This article represents a colonogram enhancement approach using intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) and fuzzy soft set (FSS) to improve the visual quality and highlight the local details in enhanced images without artifacts. The proposed method has the advantages of IFSs and fuzzy soft sets (FSSs) which can deal with gray‐level ambiguity in colonoscopy images. The combination of IFS and FSS works on intricate color variations with an adaptive parametric maps. First, the S‐membership function has been applied on the images to map into intuitionistic fuzzy space. We obtain intuitionistic fuzzy image from source image followed by decomposition of several blocks. Thereafter, the FSS is employed to get subsequent intuitionistic fuzzy soft matrix from individual image block. The FSS utilizes a class of parametric coefficients to obtain the hesitant score of individual pixels in each block through the soft‐score measure (SSM). Finally, the proposed method intensifies each membership degree in all blocks in the fuzzy plane using SSM and achieves an enhanced colonogram via defuzzification. Extensive experiment involving large data sets shows that the designed method exhibits better performance in contrast enhancement and visual quality improvement of colonograms for malformation detection (such as a polyps, malignant precancerous cells) in comparison with the state‐of‐art methods.
Anisotropic numerical potentials for coarse‐grained modeling from high‐speed multidimensional lookup table and interpolation algorithms
Authors: Gangopadhyay Ananya , Winberg Simon , Naidoo Kevin J.
Published: February 2021

A high‐speed numerical potential delivering computational performance comparable with complex coarse‐grained analytic potentials makes available models that have greater degrees of physical and chemical accuracy. This opens the possibility of increased accuracy in classical molecular dynamics simulations of anisotropic systems. In this work, we report the development of a high‐speed lookup table (LUT) of four‐dimensional gridded data, that uses cubic B‐spline interpolations to derive off grid values and their associated partial derivatives that are located between the known grid data points. The accuracy of the coarse‐grained numerical potential using a LUT from uniaxial Gay–Berne (GB) potential produced array of values is within a 3% and a 5% margin of error respectively for the interpolation of the uniaxial GB potential and its partial derivatives. The numerical potential model and partial derivatives speedup is made competitive with the analytical potential by exploiting graphics processing units on board functionality. The capability of the numerical potential is demonstrated by comparing minimizations of a box of 500 naphthalene molecules. The minimizations using a full atomistic (NAMD/CHARMM force field), a biaxial GB and a numerical potential from a LUT using data from the CHARMM pair potential was done. The numerical potential model is significantly more accurate in its approximation of the atomistic local minimum configuration than is the biaxial GB analytical potential function. This demonstrates that using a numerical potential founded on a direct lookup of the atomistic potential landscape significantly improves coarse grain (CG) modeling of complex molecules, possibly paving the way for accurate anisotropic system CG modeling.
A renewed understanding of anti‐human globulin reagents: interference constraints using an optimization method in pretransfusion compatibility tests
Authors: Wang Si‐Si , Zhang Huayu , Qu Limei , Zhao Zhen , Li Lingbo
Published: February 2021

Anti‐human globulin (AHG) reagents are widely applied in pretransfusion compatibility tests. The accuracy of detection with AHG reagents is mainly affected by irregular antibodies or cold agglutinins in blood samples, which are related to the human complement system. Although much has been written about various types and applications of AHG reagents, their characteristics, interference factors and optimal selection in pretransfusion compatibility tests still need to be further clarified. Here, we review clinical practice and basic studies that describe each AHG reagent, summarize the advantages and disadvantages of using different AHG reagents in the presence of cold agglutinins or complement‐fixing antibodies, explore the potential mechanisms by which the complement system influences detection with AHG reagents and address the question of how to optimally select AHG reagents for clinically significant antibody detection.
Commentary: Rupture repair as a transtheoretical corrective experience
Authors: Eubanks Catherine F. , Sergi Joey , Samstag Lisa Wallner , Muran J. Christopher
Published: February 2021

This commentary highlights common principles shared across the diverse clinical case examples featured in this In Session issue on Rupture Repair in Practice. We discuss the importance of therapists recognizing subtle signs of rupture and responding to ruptures with curiosity and compassion. We also consider how therapists can use repair strategies responsively to facilitate a corrective experience for the patient. We explore the ways in which the specific resolution strategy of linking a rupture to larger interpersonal patterns can benefit the therapeutic process, and the ways in which it can constitute a form of avoidance. We conclude by noting promising future directions and celebrating the generosity evidenced by these insightful authors' willingness to share and explore challenging moments in therapy.
Stair climbing and mortality: a prospective cohort study from the UK Biobank
Authors: Sanchez‐Lastra Miguel A. , Ding Ding , Dalene Knut‐Eirik , del Pozo Cruz Borja , Ekelund Ulf , Tarp Jakob
Published: February 2021

Background

Regular stair climbing has the potential to lower the risk of premature death, but current evidence is scarce. We aimed to examine whether daily stair climbing is associated with lower risk of all‐cause, cancer, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality.

Methods

Using the UK Biobank cohort, we extracted information of self‐reported daily flights of stairs climbed at home, categorized as none, 1 to 5, 6 to 10, 11 to 15, and ≥16 flights per day. Associations between flights of stair climbed per day and mortality were examined as hazard ratios (HRs) from Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for demographic, clinical, and behavioural covariates including time spent in other physical activities. We calculated the restricted mean survival time as an absolute measure of association. The risk of residual confounding was examined using propensity score matching and by using lung cancer as negative control outcome. Participants were followed from baseline (2006–2010) through 31 March 2020.

Results

A total of 280 423 participants (median follow‐up 11.1 years, during which 9445 deaths occurred) were included. Compared with not climbing any stairs, climbing more than five flights of stairs at home per day was associated with lower risk of premature mortality. The lowest risk was found for those climbing 6–10 flights per day: 0.91; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85, 0.98, translated to approximately 44 to 55 days of additional survival. A similar pattern was found after applying propensity score matching and for cancer mortality (6–10 flights per day HR: 0.88; 95% CI: 0.80, 0.97), but not for CVD mortality (6–10 flights per day HR: 1.08; 95% CI: 0.91, 1.29). The association between stair climbing and lung cancer was similar to that of all‐cause mortality.

Conclusions

Climbing more than five flights of stairs at home per day was associated with a lower risk of all‐cause and cancer mortality, but not CVD mortality, compared with those who did not take the stairs. The magnitude of the association was small and appeared susceptible to residual confounding. It is unlikely that at‐home stair climbing is sufficient physical activity stimuli to lower the risk of premature mortality.
Effects of pre‐operant running and sucrose concentration on operant wheel running on a fixed interval schedule of reinforcement
Authors: Belke Terry W. , Pierce W. David , Sexton Christine A.
Published: February 2021

Prior research proposed that temporal control over the pattern of operant wheel running on a fixed interval (FI) schedule of sucrose reinforcement is a function of automatic reinforcement generated by wheel running and the experimentally arranged sucrose reinforcement. Two experiments were conducted to assess this prediction. In the first experiment, rats ran for different durations (0, 30, 60, and 180 min) prior to a session of operant wheel running on a FI 120‐s schedule. In the second experiment, the concentration of sucrose reinforcement on a FI 180‐s schedule was varied across values of 0, 5, 15, and 25%. In Experiment 1, as the duration of pre‐operant running increased, the postreinforcement pause before initiation of running lengthened while wheel revolutions in the latter part of the FI interval increased. In Experiment 2, wheel revolutions markedly increased then decreased to a plateau early in the FI interval. Neither manipulation increased temporal control of the pattern of wheel running. Instead, results indicate that operant wheel running is regulated by automatic reinforcement generated by wheel activity and an adjunctive pattern of running induced by the temporal presentation of sucrose. Furthermore, the findings question whether the sucrose contingency regulates wheel running as a reinforcing consequence.
Characterization of the mechanical and structural properties of PGA/TMC copolymer for cardiac tissue engineering
Authors: El‐Sayed Nayera M. , El‐Bakary Mohammed A. , Ibrahim Medhat A. , Elgamal Mohamed A. , Hamza Ahmed A.
Published: February 2021

Recently, scientific research has confirmed that a single polymer material cannot meet the ambitions of all surgical requirements. Thus, combinations of different types of polymeric materials are used in order to manufacture different suture materials. A copolymer of Polyglycolide (PGA) and trimethylene carbonate (TMC) is one of the simplest bioabsorbable monofilament sutures. The optical properties of PGA/TMC copolymer surgical suture were investigated by using multiple‐beam interferometric of Fizeau type. The mechanical properties were measured by a suture‐drawing apparatus attached to the multiple‐beam interferometric system. The refractive indices, stress–strain curve, elastic shear modulus, Young's modulus and crosslink density were investigated for the PGA/TMC surgical suture at various draw ratios. The biological activities were conducted by Quantitative Structure Activity Relationships (QSAR) descriptors. Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MESP) maps were used to describe the reactivity and functional active sites for the given molecule. The behavior of stress–strain curve confirms the compatibility of the suture with the sternum which proves that this suture is a good candidate for cardiac operations.

Research highlights

Fizeau fringes is accurate in characterizing properties of PGA/TMC surgical suture. The biological activities were conducted by (QSAR) descriptors. The compatibility measurements lead to it is a good candidate for cardiac operations.
Impact of the revision of the law on pancreatic transplants in Japan—An analysis of the Japanese Pancreas Transplants Registry
Authors: Ito Taihei , Kenmochi Takashi , Aida Naohiro , Kurihara Kei , Tomimaru Yoshito , Ito Toshinori
Published: February 2021

Background

In Japan, it has been about 10 years since the revision of the law on donating brain‐dead organs. The present study compared the outcomes of pancreatic transplant before and after the revision of the law.

Methods

The 437 patients who had received pancreas transplantation were divided into two groups according to the time when pancreas transplantation was performed between era 1 (before the revision) and 2 (after the revision), and compared in the patient and pancreas graft survival.

Results

While the annual number of brain‐dead donors was <10 in era 1, and this number significantly increased in era 2 to >50. This resulted in an increased number of pancreas transplantations: >30 cases per year. The comparison data after a propensity score‐matched analysis revealed that the death‐censored pancreatic graft survival at 1, 3, and 5 years after pancreas transplantation in era 2 was 94.9%, 92.0%, and 92.0%, which, while lacking significance, tended to be better than the values of 90.5%, 83.1%, and 78.2%, respectively, in era 1.

Conclusions

The revision of the law on donating brain‐dead organs increased the number of pancreas transplantations. Technical improvements in surgery due to increased experience with performing pancreas transplants may help improve pancreatic graft survival.
A systematic review of noninflammatory cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers for clinical outcome in neonates with perinatal hypoxic brain injury that could be biologically significant
Authors: Shi Zhongjie , Luo Kehuan , Deol Saihaj , Tan Sidhartha
Published: February 2021

Neonatal encephalopathy (NE) that purportedly arises from hypoxia‐ischemia is labeled hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Perinatal asphyxia is a clinical syndrome involving acidosis, a low Apgar score and the need for resuscitation in the delivery room; asphyxia alerts one to the possibility of NE. In the present systematic review, we focused on the noninflammatory biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that are involved in the development of possible brain injury in asphyxia or HIE. A literature search in PubMed and EMBASE for case–control studies was conducted and 17 studies were found suitable by a priori criteria. Statistical analysis used the Mantel–Haenszel model for dichotomous data. The pooled mean difference and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were determined. We identified the best biomarkers, based on the estimation approach in evaluating the biological significance, out of hundreds in three categories: cell adhesion and proliferation, oxidants and antioxidants, and cell damage. The following subtotal‐population comparisons were made: perinatal asphyxia versus no asphyxia, asphyxia with HIE versus asphyxia without HIE, asphyxia with HIE versus no asphyxia, and term versus preterm HIE newborn with asphyxia. Biological significance of the biomarkers was determined by using a modification of the estimation approach, by ranking the biomarkers according to the difference in the bounds of the CIs. The most promising CSF biomarkers for prognostication especially for the severest HIE include creatine kinase, xanthine oxidase, vascular endothelial growth factor, neuron‐specific enolase, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde. Future studies are recommended using such a combined test to prognosticate the most severely affected patients.
Convection over the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and Iranian branch of Asian summer monsoon anticyclone modulates the wet and dry phases of summer monsoon rainfall over Kerala
Authors: A.V. Sreenath , S. Abhilash
Published: February 2021

This study examined factors affecting wet and dry phases of monsoon rainfall over Kerala, using modern‐era retrospective analysis for research and applications (MERRA 2) data set. Based on circulation pattern, our study shows that the wet and dry phases of monsoon over Kerala are related to modulation of convective activity over the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean (EEIO) and the Iranian branch (Western flank) of Asian Summer monsoon anticyclone (ASMA). Outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) and cloud top pressure (CTP) show an anomalous dipole (quadrupole) pattern over the Equatorial Indian Ocean (EIO) during the wet (dry) phase of Kerala summer monsoon rainfall (KSMR). We found that KSMR is enhanced during intensification of the Iranian branch of ASMA and suppressed by anomalous deep convection over the EEIO. Further, anomalous lower level cyclonic circulation over the Western North Pacific (WNP) is pulling low‐level jet (LLJ) through Southern Peninsular India, hence playing a vital role in establishing the KSMR wet phase. Contrarily, the dry phase of KSMR is associated with weakening of the Iranian branch of ASMA in the upper level.
Metrological evaluation of the effect of the presence of a road on near‐surface air temperatures
Authors: Coppa Graziano , Quarello Annarosa , Steeneveld Gert‐Jan , Jandrić Nebojša , Merlone Andrea
Published: February 2021

With the purpose of revising World Meteorological Organization's Commission for Instruments and Methods of Observation (WMO/CIMO) Guide #8 on weather stations siting, an experiment to evaluate metrologically the maximum influence of a paved road on 2‐m air temperature measurements (“road siting effect”) has been designed, installed and run in Italy. It consists of a 100‐m long array of seven measurement stations, at increasing distances from a local road, equipped with shielded Pt100 thermometers and ancillary sensors. Data coming from 1 year of observations have been analysed for daily climatological metrics, finding that the road mostly effects minimum temperatures, with average values of ~0.30 ± 0.18 °C at a distance of 1 m; then, in order to quantify the instrumental effect on the measurement, data were filtered by applying a generalized additive model, selecting only times when the effect is more intense (during nights, in presence of low winds coming from the road), and the road siting effect has been calculated by modelling the maximum temperature differences by using extreme values analysis. The 1‐year return value on 10‐min measurements is 1.22 ± 0.30 °C at 1 m from the road, with a gradual decline (~0.1 °C·m−1), while an extrapolation to 100‐year return level gives a value of 1.71 ± 0.79 °C with a decline rate of about 0.17 °C·m−1. This is a first step towards a redefinition of the weather station classification scheme of WMO/CIMO Guide #8, together with building and tree effects experiments which have been run in parallel with the road siting experiment here presented and which will be presented elsewhere.
Effects of Standard vs Energy‐Dense Formulae on Gastric Retention, Energy Delivery, and Glycemia in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Chapple Lee‐anne S. , Summers Matthew J. , Weinel Luke M. , Abdelhamid Yasmine Ali , Kar Palash , Hatzinikolas Seva , Calnan Deborah , Bills Madison , Lange Kylie , Poole Alexis , O'Connor Stephanie N. , Horowitz Michael , Jones Karen L. , Deane Adam M. , Chapman Marianne J.
Published: February 2021

Background

Energy‐dense formulae are often provided to critically ill patients with enteral feed intolerance with the aim of increasing energy delivery, yet the effect on gastric emptying is unknown. The rate of gastric emptying of a standard compared with an energy‐dense formula was quantified in critically ill patients.

Methods

Mechanically ventilated adults were randomized to receive radiolabeled intragastric infusions of 200 mL standard (1 kcal/mL) or 100 mL energy‐dense (2 kcal/mL) enteral formulae on consecutive days in this noninferiority, blinded, crossover trial. The primary outcome was scintigraphic measurement of gastric retention (percentage at 120 minutes). Other measures included area under the curve (AUC) for gastric retention and intestinal energy delivery (calculated from gastric retention of formulae over time), blood glucose (peak and AUC), and intestinal glucose absorption (using 3‐O‐methyl‐D‐gluco‐pyranose [3‐OMG] concentrations). Comparisons were undertaken using paired mixed‐effects models. Data presented are mean ± SE.

Results

Eighteen patients were studied (male/female, 14:4; age, 55.2 ± 5.3 years). Gastric retention at 120 minutes was greater with the energy‐dense formula (standard, 17.0 ± 5.9 vs energy‐dense, 32.5 ± 7.1; difference, 12.7% [90% confidence interval, 0.8%–30.1%]). Energy delivery (AUC120, 13,038 ± 1119 vs 9763 ± 1346 kcal/120 minutes; P = 0.057), glucose control (peak glucose, 10.1 ± 0.3 vs 9.7 ± 0.3 mmol/L, P = 0.362; and glucose AUC120 8.7 ± 0.3 vs 8.5 ± 0.3 mmol/L.120 minutes, P = 0.661), and absorption (3‐OMG AUC120, 38.5 ± 4.0 vs 35.7 ± 4.0 mmol/L.120 minutes; P = .508) were not improved with the energy‐dense formula.

Conclusion

In critical illness, administration of an energy‐dense formula does not reduce gastric retention, increase energy delivery to the small intestine, or improve glucose absorption or glucose control; instead, there is a signal for delayed gastric emptying.
Effect of Gd on microstructure and stress corrosion cracking of the AZ91‐extruded magnesium alloy
Authors: Song Yulai , Liu Qing , Wang Haiyang , Zhu Xianyong
Published: February 2021

AZ91 and AZ91–xGd (x = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 wt%) magnesium alloys are extruded into plates. The addition of Gd promotes the formation of Al2Gd, effectively reducing the volume fraction of the β‐Mg17Al12 phase and making the banded structures of the extruded magnesium alloys thinner. The corrosion weight loss tests and electrochemistry analyses demonstrate that Gd significantly improves the pitting resistance of the AZ91 in 3.5‐wt% NaCl solution saturated with Mg(OH)2. Slow strain rate tensile tests show that in a corrosive environment, compared with AZ91, the elongation to failure of the AZ91–1.0Gd alloy is increased by 47%, and the alloy exhibits excellent stress corrosion resistance in this study. The fracture mode of AZ91 is changed from typical intergranular fracture to a mixture of transgranular and intergranular fracture in the corrosion solution by adding Gd. The mechanism of Gd to improve the stress corrosion resistance of the AZ91 magnesium alloy is that Gd increases the corrosion resistance, especially the pitting of AZ91.