bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reading and writing for well‐being: A qualitative exploration of the therapeutic experience of older adult participants in a bibliotherapy and creative writing group
Authors: Malyn Brianna O. , Thomas Zoe , Ramsey‐Wade Christine E.
Published: February 2020

This study provides a qualitative exploration of the therapeutic mechanisms occurring within three community‐based reading and writing for well‐being groups attended by older adults, located in a city in England. Whilst it is increasingly accepted that community‐based participatory arts programmes can contribute to health and well‐being (Clift, 2012), research in this area has tended to focus on the visual and performing arts, with less attention given to literary interventions. This study aims to develop a deeper understanding of the therapeutic mechanisms occurring within these groups which facilitate well‐being, with the objectives of (a) enhancing practitioners' ability to effectively implement such interventions and (b) contributing to the development of a strong theoretical base from which such interventions can be meaningfully evaluated. Twelve individual, semi‐structured interviews were conducted for this study and analysed using thematic analysis, following the guidelines of Braun and Clarke (2006). Four overarching themes were developed through the analysis. These are expressed through a relational framework as follows: ‘Relationship to self’, ‘Relationship with others’, ‘Relationship with facilitator’ and ‘An intermediary object’. It is concluded that community‐based bibliotherapy and therapeutic creative writing groups support well‐being in older adults by providing a unique space in which participants feel acknowledged, accepted, challenged and inspired. Future research should focus on the efficacy of the intervention for reducing social isolation and loneliness. Practice implications for traditional group and individual therapies are also discussed.
SCAI publications committee manual of standard operating procedures
Authors: Szerlip Molly , Feldman Dmitriy N. , Aronow Herbert D. , Blankenship James C. , Choi James W. , Elgendy Islam Y. , Elmariah Sammy , Garcia Santiago , Goldstein Bryan H. , Herrmann Howard , Hira Ravi S. , Jaff Michael R. , Kalra Ankur , Kaluski Edo , Kavinsky Clifford J. , Kolansky Daniel M. , Kong David F. , Messenger John C. , Mukherjee Debabrata , Patel Rajan A. G. , Piana Robert , Senerth Emily , Shishehbor Mehdi , Singh Gagan , Singh Vikas , Yadav Pradeep K. , Cox David
Published: February 2020

Evidence‐based recommendations for clinical practice are intended to help health care providers and patients make decisions, minimize inappropriate practice variation, promote effective resource use, improve clinical outcomes, and direct future research. The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) has been engaged in the creation and dissemination of clinical guidance documents since the 1990s. These documents are a cornerstone of the society's education, advocacy, and quality improvement initiatives. The publications committee is charged with oversight of SCAI's clinical documents program and has created this manual of standard operating procedures to ensure consistency, methodological rigor, and transparency in the development and endorsement of the society's documents. The manual is intended for use by the publications committee, document writing groups, external collaborators, SCAI representatives, peer reviewers, and anyone seeking information about the SCAI documents program.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis: A case report with oral manifestations and the role of pediatric dentists in the diagnosis
Authors: Hammouri Eman Hussein , Sweidan Hala Antoun , AShokaibi Omar , Al Omari Leen
Published: February 2020

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a benign disease that behaves malignantly. Early recognition and treatment of oral manifestation of LCH by pediatric dentist and other medical specialties is important to prevent further organ damage.
Huge fetal ovarian cyst
Authors: Wang Liangcheng , Shimizu Emi , Ikeda Taro , Ishiguro Aya , Irie Yuko , Ko Hiroyoshi , Horiuchi Isao , Chikazawa Kenro , Imai Ken , Kuwata Tomoyuki , Takagi Kenjiro
Published: February 2020

Most fetal ovarian cysts increase in size during the late stages of pregnancy. Early treatment of a huge neonatal cyst may reduce the risk of gastrointestinal obstruction.
Pembrolizumab‐axitinib‐induced tumor lysis syndrome in a patient with metastatic renal cancer
Authors: Shah Manan , Jain Sanjay , Abe Temidayo , Surapaneni Phani Keerthi , Bhatia Kapil
Published: February 2020

Tumor lysis syndrome is uncommon in solid tumors but with the use of immunotherapy (checkpoint inhibitors) their incidence is increasing. Physicians need to take adequate precautions while treating patients with immunotherapy. The findings of our case report will help improve our current understanding of tumor lysis syndrome specially in solid tumors and will help in developing multidisciplinary treatment and prophylaxis strategies for this uncommon, but potentially fatal complication.
A case of stercoral colitis with marked elevation of serum carcinoembryonic antigen
Authors: Takehara Kiyoto , Takehara Yuko , Ueyama Satoshi , Kobayashi Tatsunori
Published: February 2020

It should be noted that the serum CEA level can become elevated in severe stercoral colitis. Marked elevation of the serum CEA level in stercoral colitis may suggest the necessity of surgery in patients with stercoral colitis.
Isotopic Oxygen Exchange Study to Unravel Noble Metal Oxide/Support Interactions: The Case of RuO2 and IrO2 Nanoparticles Supported on CeO2, TiO2 and YSZ
Authors: Hajar Yasmine M. , Boreave Antoinette , Caravaca Angel , Vernoux Philippe , Baranova Elena A.
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study is to unravel the mechanism of (noble metal oxide)/(active support) interactions for catalytic purposes. Hence, isotopic oxygen exchange (IOE) tests were performed on Iridium‐ and ruthenium‐based oxides supported on cerium oxide (CeO2), titanium oxide (TiO2), and yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ). IOE tests demonstrated the metal oxide support involvement in the propane oxidation reaction, with YSZ‐based catalysts showing the highest exchange rate of oxygen, while CeO2 and TiO2‐based catalysts had a less diffusion of lattice oxygen in that order. This is related to the presence of extrinsic oxygen vacancies in the YSZ‐based catalysts and the reduction ability of the CeO2 and TiO2 supports. Despite the limitations on oxygen exchange in some of the noble/metal oxide catalysts, their catalytic performance was comparable to the ones that showed a high oxygen exchange. Therefore, active supports results in a higher engagement of oxygen from the support but not in a linear correlation with the catalytic performance of the metal/support.
Aggregation‐Induced Synergism by Hydrophobic‐Driven Self‐Assembly of Amphiphilic Oligonucleotides
Authors: Yang Peng , Peng Xin , Yang Ze‐zhou , Chai Ya‐qin , Yuan Ruo , Liang Wen‐bin
Published: February 2020

The evident contradiction between high local‐concentration‐based substrate reactivity and free‐diffusion‐based high reaction efficiency remains one of the important challenges in chemistry. Herein, we propose an efficient aggregation‐induced synergism through the hydrophobic‐driven self‐assembly of amphiphilic oligonucleotides to generate high local concentration whereas retaining high reaction efficiency through hydrophobic‐based aggregation, which is important for constructing efficient DNA nanomachines for ultrasensitive applications. MicroRNA‐155, used as a model, triggered strand displacement amplification of the DNA monomers on the periphery of the 3D DNA nanomachine and generated an amplified fluorescent response for its sensitive assay. The local concentration of substrates was increased by a factor of at least 9.0×105 through hydrophobic‐interaction‐based self‐assembly in comparison with the traditional homogeneous reaction system, achieving high local‐concentration‐based reactivity and free‐diffusion‐based enhanced reaction efficiency. As expected, the aggregation‐induced synergism by hydrophobic‐driven self‐assembly of amphiphilic oligonucleotides created excellent properties to generate a 3D DNA nanomachine with potential as an assay for microRNA‐155 in cells. Most importantly, this approach can be easily expanded for the bioassay of various biomarkers, such as nucleotides, proteins, and cells, offering a new avenue for simple and efficient applications in bioanalysis and clinical diagnosis.
Predicting visual similarity between colour palettes
Authors: Yang Jie , Chen Yun , Westland Stephen , Xiao Kaida
Published: February 2020

This work is concerned with the prediction of visual colour difference between pairs of palettes. In this study, the palettes contained five colours arranged in a horizontal row. A total of 95 pairs of palettes were rated for visual difference by 20 participants. The colour difference between the palettes was predicted using two algorithms, each based on one of six colour‐difference formulae. The best performance (r2 = 0.86 and STRESS = 16.9) was obtained using the minimum colour‐difference algorithm (MICDM) using the CIEDE2000 equation with a lightness weighing of 2. There was some evidence that the order (or arrangement) of the colours in the palettes was a factor affecting the visual colour differences although the MICDM algorithm does not take order into account. Application of this algorithm is intended for digital design workflows where colour palettes are generated automatically using machine learning and for comparing palettes obtained from psychophysical studies to explore, for example, the effect of culture, age, or gender on colour associations.
Amplified locality‐sensitive hashing‐based recommender systems with privacy protection
Authors: Chi Xiaoxiao , Yan Chao , Wang Hao , Rafique Wajid , Qi Lianyong
Published: February 2020

With the advent of Internet of Things (IoT) age, the variety and volume of web services have been increasing at a fast speed. This often leads to users' selections for web services more complicated. Under the circumstance, a variety of methods such as collaborative filtering are adopted to deal with this challenging situation. While traditional collaborative filtering method has some shortcomings, one of which is that only centralized user‐service data are considered while distributed quality data from multiple platform are ignored. Generally, service recommendation across different platforms often involves data communication among multiple platforms, during which user privacy may be disclosed and much computational time is required. Considering these challenges, a unique amplified locality‐sensitive hashing (LSH)‐based service recommendation method, that is, SRAmplified‐LSH, is proposed in the article. SRAmplified‐LSH can guarantee a good balance between accuracy and efficiency of recommendation and user privacy information. Finally, extensive experiments deployed on WS‐DREAM dataset validate the feasibility of our proposed method.
Spanish version of the Inferential Confusion Questionnaire‐Expanded Version: Further support for the role of inferential confusion in obsessive–compulsive symptoms
Authors: Llorens‐Aguilar Sara , García‐Soriano Gemma , Roncero María , Barrada Juan Ramón , Aardema Frederick , O Connor Kieron
Published: February 2020

The purposes of this research were (1) to analyse the psychometric properties of the Inferential Confusion Questionnaire‐Expanded Version (ICQ‐EV) in a Spanish population; (2) to explore the role of inferential confusion in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD); and (3) to compare the inferential confusion construct in nonclinical and clinical samples. A sample of 342 nonclinical participants and 66 patients with OCD completed the ICQ‐EV Spanish adaptation as well as a set of questionnaires. Results confirmed a good fit of the ICQ‐EV Spanish version to the original unifactorial structure and excellent internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Moreover, results confirmed that the ICQ‐EV predicts Obsessing, Checking, Washing, and Hoarding symptoms, independently of the contribution of dysfunctional beliefs. In addition, OCD patients scored significantly higher on the ICQ‐EV than nonclinical participants. The Spanish version of the ICQ‐EV is a reliable instrument to assess inferential confusion, and further support is provided for the relevance of the inferential confusion construct in OCD.
Tuning the Electrochemical Properties of Organic Battery Cathode Materials: Insights from Evolutionary Algorithm DFT Calculations
Authors: Carvalho Rodrigo P. , Marchiori Cleber F. N. , Brandell Daniel , Araujo C. Moyses
Published: February 2020

Several forms of organic materials have arisen as promising candidates for future active electrode materials for Li‐ion and post‐Li‐ion batteries, owing to a series of key features that encompasses sustainability, accessibility, and tunable electrochemical properties by molecular modifications. In this context, a series of organic electrode materials (OEMs) are investigated to further understand their thermodynamic and electronic properties. Through an evolutionary algorithm approach combined with first‐principles calculations, the crystal structure of lithiated and delithiated phases of these OEMs and their respective NO2‐substituted analogues are predicted. This framework allows a first assessment of their electrochemical and electronic properties and further understanding on the effects of the nitro group in the substituted compounds. NO2 is found to strongly affect structural and thermodynamic aspects during the electrochemical reaction with the reducing equivalents (Li++e−), changing the OEM's character from a low‐potential anode to a high‐potential cathode by creating a localization of the additional electrons, thus resulting in a better‐defined redox‐active center and leading to a shift in the potential from 0.92 V to 2.66 V vs. Li/Li+.
Recycling of CO2 by Hydrogenation of Carbonate Derivatives to Methanol: Tuning Copper–Oxide Promotion Effects in Supported Catalysts
Authors: Kim Jonglack , Pfänder Norbert , Prieto Gonzalo
Published: February 2020

The selective hydrogenation of organic carbonates to methanol is a relevant transformation to realize flexible processes for the recycling of waste CO2 with renewable H2 mediated by condensed carbon dioxide surrogates. Oxide‐supported copper nanoparticles are promising solid catalysts for this selective hydrogenation. However, essential for their optimization is to rationalize the prominent impact of the oxide support on performance. Herein, the role of Lewis acid centers, exposed on the oxide support at the periphery of the Cu nanoparticles, was systematically assessed. For the hydrogenation of propylene carbonate, as a model cyclic carbonate, the conversion rate, the apparent activation energy, and the selectivity to methanol correlate with the Lewis acidity of the coordinatively unsaturated cationic sites exposed on the oxide support. Lewis sites of markedly low and high electron‐withdrawing character promote unselective decarbonylation and decarboxylation reaction pathways, respectively. Supports exposing Lewis sites of intermediate acidity maximize the selectivity to methanol while inhibiting acid‐catalyzed secondary reactions of the propanediol product, and thus enable its recovery in cyclic processes of CO2 hydrogenation mediated by condensed carbonate derivatives. These findings help rationalize metal–support promotion effects that determine the performance of supported metal nanoparticles in this and other selective hydrogenation reactions of significance in the context of sustainable chemistry.
Modeling ExB drift transport in conceptual slot divertor configurations
Authors: Meier E.T. , Covele B.M. , Guo H.Y. , Leonard A.W. , Thomas D.M.
Published: February 2020

At DIII‐D, a slot divertor concept, called small‐angle‐slot (SAS), is under development, aiming to enable detachment at relatively low plasma edge density. We report on simulations using the SOLPS‐ITER two‐dimensional edge code to examine the performance of conceptual “SAS 2” slot configurations. The focus of the analysis is on E × B drift effects on upstream density at detachment (UDD), with detachment marked by electron temperature Te ≤ 3 eV at the outer strike point (OSP). With toroidal field such that radial E × B drift carries particles from the OSP towards the private flux region (PFR), placing the OSP near the inner slot wall gives ≈20% lower UDD than having the OSP near the outer wall. The inner wall effectively traps the radial E × B drift flux, resulting in low Te and associated radial electric field in the PFR, and thus small losses from the slot to the inner target via poloidal E × B drift flux. With toroidal field reversed such that radial E × B drift is reversed, OSP placement near the inner wall gives ≈10% lower UDD than OSP placement near the outer wall. Although radial E × B flux is from the OSP towards the outer wall, this flux largely escapes the slot, raising the UDD. A change in the slot shaping is suggested with the goal of eliminating such E × B‐driven particle losses from the slot.
Prolonging lifetime for wireless rechargeable sensor networks through sleeping and charging scheduling
Authors: Wang Kun , Wang Lei , Lin Chi , Obaidat Mohammad S. , Alam Muhammad
Published: February 2020

Prolonging network lifetime is a fundamental requirement in wireless sensor network (WSN). Existing charging scheduling algorithms suffer from high node redundancy and energy consumption issues. In this paper, we study WSN charging problem from the perspectives of energy conservation combined with energy replenishment scheduling. Firstly, we detect the redundant nodes whose energy is wasted in the network functionality and develop a K‐covering redundant nodes sleeping scheduling algorithm (KRSS) for reducing energy. Secondly, we employed multiple wireless charging vehicles (WCVs) for energy replenishment and optimize the charging scheduling algorithm to prevent any exhaustion of nodes, and we proposed a distance and energy–oriented charging scheduling algorithm (DECS) with multiple WCVs. Simulation experiments are conducted to show the advantages of the proposed KRSS+DECS, confirming that our scheme is capable of removing redundant nodes, lowering node failures, and prolonging network lifetime.
An Internet and wireless networking‐based water pipes web application for fault reporting
Authors: Al‐Bayari Omar , Sadoun Balqies , Shatnawi Nawras
Published: February 2020

With the advancement of modern technologies such as smart cities, IoT, and e‐governments, people have to participate in their well‐being self‐governing and safe guard their key resources and critical infrastructures. To employ their efforts efficiently, many modern handy applications are created and solutions are proposed. Supported by the Ministry of Water, we designed and developed a free‐of‐charge web application (App.), easy to download from Google play store and operate using simple gadgets. Users can report water and sewage accidents fast and easy and at no cost. By merging Surveying and Geomatics Engineering with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) with Wireless communication, networking technology, and systems, we are able to create a web application to report complaints of accidents directly to the right delegated call centers at the Water Authority using the Internet and a smart mobile phone (simple gadgets). This will automate the complaint process and cancel the old paper work system. Surveying and Geomatics Engineering are concerned with the creation of an accurate GIS to manage the Water Authority data and in the data uploading into Google Maps. The developed computer program (application) works in two ways: first, it connects users (customer or employee) to the water authority electronically, and second, it allows immediate checking about the location of the complaint, momentarily filling using the Authority coordinate system, immediate action delegation (repair) at the water authority, continuous follow up, and confirmation to the user about the case. It performs as well, the needed coordinate transformation to guarantee exact filing and locations. Several software tools and programming languages are used to achieve this work such as ArcGIS, Google earth, Google map, GIS cloud, and Java and C++. As a case study, we present the App. performance for a town “Al‐Fuheis, Jordan” using the Water Authority data for creating the needed Water pipes and Sewage (GIS). Moreover, we presented the performance and the efficiency of the App. even when using Goggle Maps data only without GIS data intervention and it proved to be satisfying as well. As a result. a web App. called “Water Pipes” for the Water Authority is posted on their web to allow users participation in the reporting and the follow up process to better conserve the very scarce water in the country. In addition, it automates the work at the Water Authority from filing to take action and repair electronically in no time.
Urine manipulation with liquid soap: A case report
Authors: Gmeiner Günter , Geisendorfer Thomas
Published: February 2020

Among the various strategies to enhance performance by the use of doping substances or methods, sample manipulation to cheat common detection strategies is prohibited by the World Antidoping Agency. Two cases of urine sample adulteration with surfactants are presented in this article, as well as an easy strategy for the detection of this sort of sample manipulation.
Influence of canopy openness, ungulate exclosure, and low‐intensity fire for improved oak regeneration in temperate Europe
Authors: Petersson Linda K. , Dey Daniel C. , Felton Annika M. , Gardiner Emile S. , Löf Magnus
Published: February 2020

Failed oak regeneration is widely reported in temperate forests and has been linked in part to changed disturbance regimes and land‐use. We investigated if the North American fire–oak hypothesis could be applicable to temperate European oaks (Quercus robur,Quercus petraea) using a replicated field experiment with contrasting canopy openness, protection against ungulate browsing (fencing/no fencing), and low‐intensity surface fire (burn/no burn). Survival, relative height growth (RGRH), browsing damage on naturally regenerated oaks (≤300 cm tall), and changes in competing woody vegetation were monitored over three years. Greater light availability in canopy gaps increased oak RGRH(p = .034) and tended to increase survival (p = .092). There was also a trend that protection from browsing positively affected RGRH(p = .058) and survival (p = .059). Burning reduced survival (p < .001), nonetheless, survival rates were relatively high across treatment combinations at the end of the experiment (54%–92%). Most oaks receiving fire were top‐killed and survived by producing new sprouts; therefore, RGRHin burned plots became strongly negative the first year. Thereafter, RGRHwas greater in burned plots (p = .002). Burning altered the patterns of ungulate browsing frequency on oaks. Overall, browsing frequency was greater during winter; however, in recently burned plots summer browsing was prominent. Burning did not change relative density of oaks, but it had a clear effect on competing woody vegetation as it reduced the number of individuals (p < .001) and their heights (p < .001). Our results suggest that young, temperate European oaks may respond similarly to fire as their North American congeners. However, disturbance from a single low‐intensity fire may not be sufficient to ensure a persistent competitive advantage—multiple fires and canopy thinning to increase light availability may be needed. Further research investigating long‐term fire effects on oaks of various ages, species‐specific response of competitors and implications for biodiversity conservation is needed.
Whey Protein Isolate Coated Liposomes as Novel Carrier Systems for Astaxanthin
Authors: Pan Li , Zhang Xin , Fan Xiaozu , Li Hua , Xu Baocheng , Li Xueqin
Published: February 2020

In this work, whey protein isolate (WPI)‐coated astaxanthin‐loaded liposomes are prepared by combining the fabrication of liposomes with the layer self‐assembly deposition technique. The physical properties of such composite carriers are evaluated by zeta potential, particle size, distribution, encapsulation efficiency, and morphology. WPI‐ coated astaxanthin‐loaded liposomes display homodisperse distribution and high encapsulation efficiency with a WPI coating layer surrounding the surface of conventional liposomes by the electrostatic interaction. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction analysis reveal that WPI interacts with the lipid bilayer via hydrophobic forces and hydrogen bonding, which result in the successful coating. Based on experimental results of differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, it is demonstrated that thermal stability of astaxanthin‐loaded liposomes benefits from the formation of surface modification of the WPI‐layer. In addition, the physical stability of WPI‐coated astaxanthin‐loaded liposomes under heating and light is significantly improved as compared with uncoated liposomes. This research might provide scientific guidance for the development of WPI‐coated liposomes as efficient carrier systems for bioactive substances in food and pharmaceutical industry.

Practical Applications: To improve lipid membrane stability and to prevent the leakage of encapsulated astaxanthin, a novel carrier system based on WPI coated on the surface of liposomes is prepared through the layer self‐assembly deposition technique. This research suggests that WPI‐coated liposomes represent an effective and stable delivery system for astaxanthin. WPI‐coated liposomes could be developed as efficient carrier systems for bioactive compounds in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Ynones in Reflex‐Michael Addition, CuAAC, and Cycloaddition, as Well as their Use as Nucleophilic Enols, Electrophilic Ketones, and Allenic Precursors
Authors: Wang Zhan‐Yong , Wang Kai‐Kai , Chen Rongxiang , Liu Huan , Chen Kaijun
Published: February 2020

The great success of ynones in synthesis is rooted in their multiple functional groups. Herein, reactions triggered by the reflex‐Michael addition, ynones in copper(I)‐catalyzed alkyne–azide cycloaddition (CuAAC), and formal cycloaddition as well as the use of ynones as nucleophilic enols, electrophilic ketones, and allenic precursors were thoroughly discussed and summarized. Multi‐component reactions, rearrangements, cycloadditions, regio‐ and stereoselective synthesis, coupling, and cycloaddition are depicted in detail. This review focused on advances of ynones chemistry in the last decade (2009–2019). We hope it will promote future research in this area.
Oxytocin modulates intrinsic neural activity in patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Schneider Isabella , Schmitgen Mike M. , Boll Sabrina , Roth Corinna , Nees Frauke , Usai Katrin , Herpertz Sabine C. , Wolf Robert C.
Published: February 2020

Background

Modulation of pain perception by oxytocin (OXT) has attracted increased scientific and clinical interest. Neural mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly understood. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of intranasally applied OXT on intrinsic neural activity in patients with chronic low back pain (cLBP).

Methods

Twenty‐four male patients with cLBP and 23 healthy males were examined using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Participants were scanned twice and received either intranasally applied OXT (24 international units) or placebo 40 min before scanning. The fractional amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuations (fALFF) was computed to investigate regionally specific effects of OXT on intrinsic neural activity. In addition a multivariate statistical data analysis strategy was employed to explore OXT‐effects on functional network strength.

Results

Differential effects of OXT were observed in cLBP and healthy controls. FALFF decreased in left nucleus accumbens and right thalamus in cLBP and increased in right thalamus in healthy controls after OXT application compared to placebo. OXT also induced activity changes in bilateral thalamus, left caudate nucleus and right amygdala in cLBP. OXT was associated with increased medial frontal, parietal and occipital functional network strength, though this effect was not group‐specific. Regression analyses revealed significant associations between left nucleus accumbens, left caudate nucleus and right amygdala with pain‐specific psychometric scores in cLBP.

Conclusions

These data suggest OXT‐related modulation of regional activity and neural network strength in patients with cLBP and healthy controls. In patients, distinct regions of the pain matrix may be responsive to modulation by OXT.

Significance

Our data suggest significant oxytocin‐related modulation of intrinsic regional activity and neural network strength in patients with chronic low back pain and healthy controls. In patients, distinct regions of the pain matrix may be responsive to modulation by oxytocin. Therapeutic effects of oxytocin for improved pain treatment need to be further investigated.
A randomized, double‐blind, crossover, dose ranging study to determine the optimal dose of oral opioid to treat breakthrough pain for patients with advanced cancer already established on regular opioids
Authors: Currow David C. , Clark Katherine , Louw Sandra , Fazekas Belinda , Greene Aine , Sanderson Christine R.
Published: February 2020

Background

Pain in people with advanced cancer is prevalent. When a stable dose of opioids is established, people still experience episodic breakthrough pain for which dosing of an immediate release opioid is usually a proportion of the total daily dose.

Methods

This multi‐site, double blind, randomized trial tested three dose proportions (1/6, 1/8, 1/12 of total daily dose) in two blocks, each block with three dose proportions in random order (6 numbered bottles in total). When participants required opioid breakthrough doses and it was their first breakthrough dose for that study day, they took the next numbered bottle rather than their usual breakthrough dose. (Subsequent doses on that day reverted to their usual dose.)

Results

Eighty‐five people were randomized in this study of whom 81 took at least one dose and 73 (90%) took at least block one (one of each dose proportion). No dose was found to be optimal at 30 min with approximately one‐third of participants showing maximal reduction with each dose proportion. Median time to pain relief was 120 min. There were no differences in harms: drowsiness, confusion, nausea or vomiting at 30, 60 or 120 min.

Conclusions

This adequately powered study did not show any difference with three dose proportions for reduction in pain intensity, time to pain relief, pain control on the subsequent day nor any difference in harms. From first principles, this suggests 1/12 the 24 hourly dose should be used as the lowest dose that delivers benefit. Future studies should include a placebo arm.

Significance

Despite the widespread use of immediate release morphine solution for breakthrough cancer pain, the ideal dose derived from background dose has not been determined in an adequately powered randomized, double‐blind, crossover, dose ranging study. This study tested three dose levels in people with advanced cancer. Given no differences in time to onset, level of analgesia achieved, nor side effects, the lowest dose tested (1/12th of the daily dose) should be used.
Clinical outcomes and treatments effectiveness in status epilepticus resolved by antiepileptic drugs: A five‐year observational study
Authors: Orlandi Niccolò , Giovannini Giada , Rossi Jessica , Cioclu Maria Cristina , Meletti Stefano
Published: February 2020

Objective

To evaluate clinical outcomes and treatment effectiveness of status epilepticus finally resolved by nonbenzodiazepine antiepileptic drugs (AEDs).

Methods

All consecutive SE episodes observed from September 1, 2013, to September 1, 2018, and resolved by AEDs were considered. Diagnosis and classification of SE followed the 2015 ILAE proposal. Nonconvulsive status (NCSE) diagnosis was confirmed according to the Salzburg EEG criteria. The modified Rankin Scale and deaths at 30 days from onset were used to evaluate outcomes.

Results

A total of 277 status episodes (mean age 71 years; 61% female) were treated and resolved by antiepileptic drugs after 382 treatment trials. 68% of the SE resolved after AED use as first/second treatment line, while subsequent trials with AEDs gave an additional 32% resolution. A return to baseline conditions was observed in 48% of the patients, while overall mortality was 19% without significant changes across the study years. Mortality was higher in NCSE than in convulsive SE (22.5% vs 12.9%; P < .05), while mortality did not differ in SE episodes resolved by a first/second AED trial (17.2%) versus SE resolved by successive treatment trials (18.9%). The resolution rate of intravenous AEDs was 82% for valproate, 77% for lacosamide, 71% for phenytoin, and 62% for levetiracetam. No significant differences were found in head‐to‐head comparison, but for the valproate‐levetiracetam one that was related to NCSE episodes in which valproate resulted to be effective in 86% of the trials while levetiracetam in 62% (P < .002).

Significance

A high short‐term mortality, stable over time, was observed in SE despite resolution of seizures, especially in SE with nonconvulsive semiology. Comparative AED efficacy showed no significant differences except for higher resolution rate for valproate versus levetiracetam in NCSE.
Morphological and sedimentary features of sandy‐muddy transitional beaches in estuaries and bays along mesotidal to macrotidal coasts
Authors: Zhao Shaohua , Qi Hongshuai , Cai Feng , Zhu Jun , Zhou Xiang , Lei Gang
Published: February 2020

Sandy‐muddy transitional beaches (SMT‐Beaches), representing the transition from sandy beaches to tidal mudflats, should theoretically develop very different morphological and sedimentological characteristics in river estuaries and in semi‐enclosed bays due to their contrasting dynamic sedimentary environments. Evidence, however, is rare in the scientific literature. To reveal these morphological and sedimentary differences, the sand–mud transition (SMT) boundary distribution, beach profiles, and surface and downcore sediment grain‐size compositions of 27 SMT‐Beaches located along mesotidal to macrotidal coasts of the western Taiwan Strait, southeastern China, were investigated. The results show that typical estuarine SMT‐Beaches are mainly characterized by an ambiguous SMT, a long distance between the SMT and the coastline (31–302 m), lower SMT and inflection point altitudes (average –0.76 m and –0.04 m), and lower upper beach gradients (~0.068) with fine sand. Estuarine SMT‐Beach sediments display clear interbedded mud and sand layers, implying potential SMT migrations over various timescales. By contrast, typical bay SMT‐Beaches are characterized by distinct SMT, a short distance between the SMT and the coastline (11–52 m), higher SMT and inflection point altitudes (~0.24 m and ~0.35 m), and narrower upper beaches with higher gradients (~0.095) and coarse sand. Bay SMT‐Beaches present relatively stable sedimentary sequences and a narrow gravel belt surrounding the inflection point and/or SMT. These morphological and sedimentary differences between the two SMT‐Beach types are initially constrained by sediment supply and transport and are further affected by tide conditions and wave climate. Sediment supply and transport predominately control the sediment structures, while the tidal range strongly influences spatial variations in SMT distances. Wave climate normally drives SMT altitude variations. This study highlights the morphological and sedimentary differences in SMT‐Beaches in estuaries and bays, providing important knowledge for further revealing their morphodynamic processes and potential future nourishment. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Emerging entities in NUTM1‐rearranged neoplasms
Authors: McEvoy Christopher R. , Fox Stephen B. , Prall Owen W. J.
Published: February 2020

Structural alterations of NUTM1 were originally thought to be restricted to poorly differentiated carcinomas with variable squamous differentiation originating in the midline organs of children and adolescents. Termed NUT carcinomas (NCs), they were defined by a t(15;19) chromosomal rearrangement that was found to result in a BRD4‐NUTM1 gene fusion. However, the use of DNA and RNA‐based next‐generation sequencing has recently revealed a multitude of new NUTM1 fusion partners in a diverse array of neoplasms including sarcoma‐like tumors, poromas, and acute lymphoblastic leukemias (ALLs) that we propose to call NUTM1‐rearranged neoplasms (NRNs). Intriguingly, the nosology of NRNs often correlates with the functional classification of the fusion partner, suggesting different oncogenic mechanisms within each NRN division. Indeed, whereas NCs are characterized by their aggressiveness and intransigence to standard therapeutic measures, the more positive clinical outcomes seen in some sarcoma and ALL NRNs may reflect these mechanistic differences. Here we provide a broad overview of the molecular, nosological, and clinical features in these newly discovered neoplastic entities. We describe how aberrant expression of NUTM1 due to fusion with an N‐terminal DNA/chromatin‐binding protein can generate a potentially powerful chromatin modifier that can give rise to oncogenic transformation in numerous cellular contexts. We also conclude that classification, clinical behavior, and therapeutic options may be best defined by the NUTM1 fusion partner rather than by tumor morphology or immunohistochemical profile.
Susceptibility of Rat Steatotic Liver to Ischemia–Reperfusion Is Treatable With Liver‐Selective Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibition
Authors: Wang Xiangdong , Walkey Christopher J. , Maretti‐Mira Ana C. , Wang Lei , Johnson Deborah L. , DeLeve Laurie D.
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

This study examined whether enhanced susceptibility of steatotic liver to ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury is due to impaired recruitment of bone marrow (BM) progenitors of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs, also called sinusoidal endothelial cell progenitor cells [sprocs]) with diminished repair of injured LSECs and whether restoring signaling to recruit BM sprocs reduces I/R injury.

Approach and Results

Hepatic vessels were clamped for 1 hour in rats fed a high‐fat, high‐fructose (HFHF) diet for 5, 10, or 15 weeks. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9) antisense oligonucleotides (ASO) or an MMP inhibitor were used to induce liver‐selective MMP‐9 inhibition. HFHF rats had mild, moderate, and severe steatosis, respectively, at 5, 10, and 15 weeks. I/R injury was enhanced in HFHF rats; this was accompanied by complete absence of hepatic vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)–stromal cell–derived factor 1 (sdf1) signaling, leading to lack of BM sproc recruitment. Liver‐selective MMP‐9 inhibition to protect against proteolytic cleavage of hepatic VEGF using either MMP‐9 ASO or intraportal MMP inhibitor in 5‐week and 10‐week HFHF rats enhanced hepatic VEGF–sdf1 signaling, increased BM sproc recruitment, and reduced alanine aminotransferase (ALT) by 92% and 77% at 5 weeks and by 80% and 64% at 10 weeks of the HFHF diet, respectively. After I/R injury in 15‐week HFHF rats, the MMP inhibitor reduced active MMP‐9 expression by 97%, ameliorated histologic evidence of injury, and reduced ALT by 58%, which is comparable to control rats sustaining I/R injury. Rescue therapy with intraportal MMP inhibitor, given after ischemia, in the 5‐week HFHF rat reduced ALT by 71% and reduced necrosis.

Conclusions

Lack of signaling to recruit BM sprocs that repair injured LSECs renders steatotic liver more susceptible to I/R injury. Liver‐selective MMP‐9 inhibition enhances VEGF–sdf1 signaling and recruitment of BM sprocs, which markedly protects against I/R injury, even in severely steatotic rats.
Interaction between an operator and the control desk at the control room of the railway traffic: A Serbian experience
Authors: Grozdanovic Miroljub
Published: February 2020

The subject of this paper is the interaction between an operator and the control desk at the Railway Traffic Control Room (RTCR) in Nis, Serbia. The following methods were used for this research: operators' anthropometric measurement; determining of maximum force of the movements of operators' arms; an analysis of workload of the movements of operators' arms, heads and torsos, and an analysis of errors in operators' movements in response to visual cues. The paper presents the following results: static parameter of 20 anthropometric measures of 41 operators' bodies were measured; nine corresponding dimensions of particular body parts for 5th, 50th, and 95th percentile were calculated; 10 characteristic work angles were measured; five corresponding functional body parts were calculated; times and distances covered by operators' arms were measured; maximum forces used for these movements were calculated; positions and number of movements of arms, heads, and torsos of operators were determined, and movement errors and probability of movement errors in choice of direction, arms and cumulative conditional probability were calculated. The research was conducted with the aim of discovering determining factors of mutual synchronization of the operator and desk.
Effect of wrist position on grip force sense in healthy adults
Authors: Li Lin , Li Yan‐xia , Gong Rui , Fu Hao
Published: February 2020

To achieve a better understanding of the causes of higher rates of musculoskeletal disorders and to develop preventive strategies to decrease the risk of injury and optimally design hand tools, it is necessary to understand the effects of both wrist position and force level on grip force sense. In this study, the effects of both wrist position and force level on grip force sense in healthy males during an ipsilateral force reproduction task were investigated. Twenty healthy subjects were instructed to produce varying levels of target forces (i.e., 10%, 30%, and 50% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction [MVIC]) for five wrist positions (i.e., neutral position, full radial deviation, full ulnar deviation, full‐extension, and full flexion), and to reproduce these forces using the same hand. The results of our study revealed that the absolute error, constant error, and MVIC decreased as the wrist joint angle deviated from the neutral position. Subjects had a more accurate estimation of medium target force (30% MVIC), while low target force (10% MVIC) was overestimated and high target force (50% MVIC) was underestimated, in contrast to most previous studies.
Preventable hysterectomies in Malawi: Addressing challenges in the healthcare system
Authors: Kangaude Godfrey D. , Sibande Chrispine , Durojaye Ebenezer
Published: February 2020

Women should play a key role in ending the problem of preventable hysterectomies that are a result of poor obstetric and gynecological care in Malawi.
Effect of scaffold properties on adhesion and maintenance of boundary cap neural crest stem cells in vitro
Authors: Han Yilin , Baltriukienė Daiva , Kozlova Elena N.
Published: February 2020

Optimal combination of stem cells and biocompatible support material is a promising strategy for successful tissue engineering. The required differentiation of stem cells is crucial for functionality of engineered tissues and can be regulated by chemical and physical cues. Here we examined how boundary cap neural crest stem cells (bNCSCs) are affected when cultured in the same medium, but on collagen‐ or laminin‐polyacrylamide (PAA) scaffolds of different stiffness (0.5, 1, or ~7 kPa). bNCSCs displayed marked differences in their ability to attach, maintain a large cell population and differentiate, depending on scaffold stiffness. These findings show that the design of physical cues is an important parameter to achieve optimal stem cell properties for tissue repair and engineering.
Biodegradable shape memory polymer foams with appropriate thermal properties for hemostatic applications
Authors: Jang Lindy K. , Fletcher Grace K. , Monroe Mary Beth B. , Maitland Duncan J.
Published: February 2020

Shape memory polymer (SMP) foams are a promising material for hemostatic dressings due to their biocompatibility, high surface area, excellent shape recovery, and ability to quickly initiate blood clotting. Biodegradable SMP foams could eliminate the need for a secondary removal procedure of hemostatic material from the patients’ wound, further facilitating wound healing. In this study, we developed hydrolytically and oxidatively biodegradable SMP foams by reacting polyols (triethanolamine or glycerol) with 6‐aminocaproic acid or glycine to generate foaming monomers with degradable ester bonds. These monomers were used in foam synthesis to provide highly crosslinked SMP foam structures. The ester‐containing foams showed clinically relevant thermal properties that were comparable to controls and excellent shape recovery within eight min. Triethanolamine‐based ester‐containing foams showed interconnected porous structure along with increased mechanical strength. Faster hydrolytic and oxidative biodegradation rates were achieved in ester‐containing foams in comparison to controls. These biodegradable SMP foams with clinically applicable thermal properties possess great potential as an effective hemostatic device for use in hospitals or on battlefields.
Characterization of novel calcium hydroxide‐mediated highly porous chitosan‐calcium scaffolds for potential application in dentin tissue engineering
Authors: Soares Diana Gabriela , Bordini Ester Alves Ferreira , Cassiano Fernanda Balestrero , Bronze‐Uhle Erika Soares , Pacheco Leandro Edgar , Zabeo Giovana , Hebling Josimeri , Lisboa‐Filho Paulo Noronha , Bottino Marco Cicero , de Souza Costa Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to develop a highly porous calcium‐containing chitosan scaffold suitable for dentin regeneration. A calcium hydroxide (Ca[OH]2) suspension was used to modulate the degree of porosity and chemical composition of chitosan scaffolds. The chitosan solution concentration and freezing protocol were adjusted to optimize the porous architecture using the phase‐separation technique. Scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive spectroscopy demonstrated the fabrication of a highly porous calcium‐linked chitosan scaffold (CH‐Ca), with a well‐organized and interconnected porous network. Scaffolds were cross‐linked on glutaraldehyde (GA) vapor. Following a 28‐day incubation in water, cross‐linked CH scaffold had no changes on humid mass, and CH‐Ca featured a controlled degradability profile since the significant humid mass loss was observed only after 21 (26.0%) and 28 days (42.2%). Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy indicated the establishment of Schiff base on cross‐linked scaffolds, along with calcium complexation for CH‐Ca. Cross‐linked CH‐Ca scaffold featured a sustained Ca2+ release up to 21 days in a humid environment. This porous and stable architecture allowed for human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) to spread throughout the scaffold, with cells exhibiting a widely stretched cytoplasm; whereas, the cells seeded onto CH scaffold were organized in clusters. HDPCs seeded onto CH‐Ca featured significantly higher ALP activity, and gene expressions for ALP, Col1, DMP‐1, and DSPP in comparison to CH, leading to a significant 3.5 times increase in calcium‐rich matrix deposition. In sum, our findings suggest that CH‐Ca scaffolds are attractive candidates for creating a highly porous and bioactive substrate for dentin tissue engineering.