bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ontogeny of the lateral line system in Telmatobius atacamensis (Anura, Telmatobiidae)
Authors: Quinzio Silvia I.
Published: November 2019

The lateral line system in anurans is functional during aquatic stages and therefore could provide characters related to larval morphological variation. However, few studies have addressed its components in an integrated overview, and little is known about its ontogenetic variation. This study describes the postembryonic trajectory of the lateral system in Telmatobius atacamensis up to its metamorphic regression. This includes structure, number, topography, and innervation of neuromasts, to contribute new and complete information about its larval organization and its temporal sequence of regression. The arrangement and innervation of lateral lines in T. atacamensis resembles those described for other Type IV tadpoles. Its distinctive features are the orientation of the neuromast stitches in the lateral lines, the presence of supraotic neuromasts, and the first‐described case of asymmetry of the ventral trunk line. The temporal sequence of regression during metamorphosis differs between the lateral lines and the lateral line nerves, which remain myelinated into postmetamorphic stages. This asynchronous pattern between different components of the system has also been described for Pseudis paradoxa, which shares with T. atacamensis a remarkably long larval period. This long larval period and gradual metamorphosis could also be related to the constitutive metamorphic regression of the system, in spite of the aquatic lifestyle of these frogs.
Application of proteometric approach for identification of functional mutant sites to improve the binding affinity of anticancer biologic trastuzumab with its antigen human epidermal growth factor receptor 2
Authors: Balakrishnan Nataraj , Gurunathan Baskar , Surapaneni Krishna Mohan
Published: November 2019

The aim of the present study was to develop a linear regression model aiding to a quick scan of the most important sites for mutation of an anticancer biologic trastuzumab. The important sites identified on trastuzumab can be used to carry out site‐directed mutagenesis to improve the binding affinity of the drug towards its antigen, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). This will lead to low dosage requirement of the drug for treating cancer patients, which in turn help to cut the cost and combat development of resistance. A quantitative structure‐activity relationship (QSAR) model was built by multiple linear regressions using genetic algorithm‐based feature selection (GA‐MLR) method using 48 dependent variables (dissociation constant Kd) and 226 independent variables (theoretical descriptors generated using a proteometrics approach). The final QSAR model selected in the study was more on the basis of ability to predict accurately independent test data and generalization ability of the model rather than mere statistical significance of the model. With combined analysis of descriptors presented in final QSAR model and most frequent descriptors pooled from all solution models, it was demonstrated that the modeling procedure was able to bring on the factors important for antigen‐antibody interactions with an example of HER2‐trastuzumab interaction reported in previous experimental studies. This paper will allow the prediction of the most preferable site to mutate for improving the binding affinity of trastuzumab with HER2 and also will be helpful in selecting most preferable amino acids to substitute in the selected site for mutations. This is the novel report on proteometrics approach with autocorrelation formalism for antibody engineering, which can be extended to other antibody‐antigen pairs.
Coronary CT radiation dose reduction strategies at an Australian Tertiary Care Center – improvements in radiation exposure through an evidence‐based approach
Authors: Hamilton‐Craig Christian R. , Tandon Karman , Kwan Bianca , DeBoni Karen , Burley Chris , Wesley Allan J. , O’Rourke Rachael , Neill Johanne , Branch Kelley R.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Coronary CT Angiography (CCTA) is a rapidly increasing technique for coronary imaging; however, it exposes patients to ionising radiation. We examined the impact of dose reduction techniques using ECG‐triggering, kVp/mAs reduction and high‐pitch modes on radiation exposure in a large Australian tertiary CCTA service.

Methods

Data on acquisition modes and dose exposure were prospectively collected on all CCTA scans from November 2009 to March 2014 at an Australian tertiary care centre. A dose reduction algorithm was developed using published techniques and implemented with education of medical staff, radiographers and referrers. Associations of CCTA acquisition to radiation over time were analysed with multivariate regression. Specificity in positive CCTA was assessed by correlation with invasive coronary angiography.

Results

3333 CCTAs were analysed. Mean radiation dose decreased from 8.4 mSv to 5.3, 4.4, 3.7, 2.9 and 2.8 mSv (P < 0.001) per year. Patient characteristics were unchanged. Dose reduction strategies using ECG‐triggering, kVp/mAs reduction accounted for 91% of the decrease. High‐pitch scanning reduced dose by an additional 9%. Lower dose was independently related to lower kVp, heart rate, tube current modulation, BMI, prospective triggering and high‐pitch mode (P < 0.01). CCTA specificity remained unchanged despite dose reduction.

Conclusion

Implementation of evidence‐based CCTA dose reduction algorithm and staff education programme resulted in a 67% reduction in radiation exposure, while maintaining diagnostic specificity. This approach is widely applicable to clinical practice for the performance of CCTA.
Modeling the impact of fundamental and quantum resistance on the performance of SWCNT‐based RLC interconnects
Authors: Jadav Sunil , Chandel Rajeevan , Vashishath Munish
Published: November 2019

An analytical interconnect model for single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) interconnects is proposed using Fourier method. Nonapproximated transfer function of the RLC SWCNT interconnect is modeled. The effect of fundamental and quantum resistance of SWCNT is incorporated in the transfer function. The propagation delay and overshoot/undershoot voltages are computed using Fourier series technique for SWCNT interconnects. Further, the effect of inductance that is prominent in CNTs is shown in terms of increased number of harmonics. Comparative analysis is carried out for SWCNT and Cu interconnects using MATLAB and SPICE at 65‐nm technology node for various performance parameters. Good accuracy is observed between the analytical and simulated results.
czcD gene from Bacillus megaterium and Microbacterium liquefaciens as a potential nickel–vanadium soil pollution biomarker
Authors: Fierros‐Romero Grisel , Gómez‐Ramírez Marlenne , Sharma Ashutosh , Pless Reynaldo C. , Rojas‐Avelizapa Norma G.
Published: November 2019

Metals are among the most prevalent pollutants released into the environment. For these reasons, the use of biomarkers for environmental monitoring of individuals and populations exposed to metal pollution has gained considerable attention, offering fast and sensitive detection of chemical stress in organisms. There are different metal resistance genes in bacteria that can be used as biomarkers, including cation diffusion facilitators carrying metal ions; the prototype is the cobalt–zinc–cadmium transporter (czcD). The present study reports the expression changes in the czcD gene in Bacillus megaterium and Microbacterium liquefaciens under nickel and vanadium exposure by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The nickel–vanadium‐resistant strains of B. megaterium and M. liquefaciens used in this study were isolated from mine tailings in Guanajuato, Mexico. The czcD gene showed high expression under exposure to 200 ppm of Ni and 200 ppm of V during the logarithmic growth phase of M. liquefaciens in PHGII liquid media. In contrast, no changes were observed in B. megaterium during logarithmic and stationary growth, perhaps due to the gene having differential expression during the growth phases. The expression profiles obtained for czcD show the possibility of using this gene from M. liquefaciens as a biomarker of nickel and vanadium pollution in microorganisms.
Relationship Between Insertion Torque and Compression Strength in the Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Baseplate
Authors: Diaz Miguel A. , Garrigues Grant E. , Ricchetti Eric T. , Gutierrez Sergio , Frankle Mark A.
Published: November 2019

Reverse shoulder arthroplasty is a well‐established procedure, however, there is limited data in the literature regarding adequate insertion torque and the resulting compression for glenoid baseplate fixation. In this biomechanical study, we evaluated the relationship between insertion torque and baseplate compression by simultaneously measuring the insertion torque and axial compressive forces generated by two reverse shoulder arthroplasty baseplates with central screw design. Three different bone surrogates were chosen to mimic clinical scenarios where differences in compression achieved during baseplate insertion may exist due to varying bone quality. Epoxy resin sheets were combined with the bone surrogates to simulate the glenoid vault. A digital torque gauge was used to measure insertion torque applied to the baseplate, while compression data were collected continuously from a load cell. A strong positive correlation was found between baseplate compression and insertion torque. Among the lower density bone surrogates, neither baseplate design reached maximum insertion torque (6.8 Nm) due to material strip‐out. This phenomenon did not occur in denser bone surrogates. Both baseplate designs experienced a significant increase in mean baseplate compression as insertion torque increased and were found to behave similar in the denser bone surrogates. The results presented here suggest that larger compressive forces can be achieved with an increase in insertion torque in denser bone surrogates, but caution must be used when trying to achieve fixation in poor‐quality bone. Clinically, this could be useful preoperatively to minimize baseplate failure, and in further studies regarding baseplate design for improved initial fixation and stability. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:871‐879, 2020
Efficacy of Antibiotic‐Loaded Hydroxyapatite/Collagen Composites Is Dependent on Adsorbability for Treating Staphylococcus aureus Osteomyelitis in Rats
Authors: Egawa Satoru , Hirai Keigo , Matsumoto Rempei , Yoshii Toshitaka , Yuasa Masato , Okawa Atsushi , Sugo Ken , Sotome Shinichi
Published: November 2019

Osteomyelitis remains one of the most challenging disorders for orthopedic doctors despite the advancement of therapeutic techniques. The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of local antibiotic administration using hydroxyapatite/collagen (HAp/Col) as a drug delivery system. We hypothesized that higher adsorbability of antibiotics onto HAp/Col will result in more efficacious activity and therefore, treatment of osteomyelitis. Eight antibiotics were examined in this study: amikacin, cefazolin, cefotiam, daptomycin, minocycline, piperacillin, teicoplanin, and vancomycin. Aligning with their adsorbability onto HAp/Col, minocycline, teicoplanin, and vancomycin showed antibacterial effects up to 14 days after subcutaneous implantation in Wistar rats; while antibiotics with reduced adsorbability (cefazolin, cefotiam, piperacillin) had diminished antibacterial effects. Furthermore, when implanted into a rat femur, vancomycin levels from the Hap/Col were detected in the medullary space above the minimum inhibitory concentration for Staphylococcus aureus for 7 days, while cefazolin levels were undetectable. Aligning with these results, implantation of Hap/Col impregnated with vancomycin to the femur in an acute osteomyelitis rat model had a greater therapeutic effect than cefazolin, as measured by the number of bacteria, the extent of bone destruction, and bone regeneration. These results indicated that the adsorbability of antibiotics onto their carrier is important when locally administered and that HAp/Col scaffolds might be a useful antibiotic delivery system for osteomyelitis. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society J Orthop Res 38:843‐851, 2020
In Vivo Pelvic and Hip Joint Kinematics in Patients With Cam Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome: A Dual Fluoroscopy Study
Authors: Atkins Penny R. , Fiorentino Niccolo M. , Hartle Joseph A. , Aoki Stephen K. , Peters Christopher L. , Foreman K. Bo , Anderson Andrew. E.
Published: November 2019

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) may alter the kinematic function of the hip, resulting in pain and tissue damage. Previous motion analysis studies of FAIS have employed skin markers, which are prone to soft tissue artifact and inaccurate calculation of the hip joint center. This may explain why the evidence linking FAIS with deleterious kinematics is contradictory. The purpose of this study was to employ dual fluoroscopy (DF) to quantify in vivo kinematics of patients with cam FAIS relative to asymptomatic, morphologically normal control participants during various activities. Eleven asymptomatic, morphologically normal controls and seven patients with cam FAIS were imaged with DF during standing, level walking, incline walking, and functional range of motion activities. Model‐based tracking calculated the kinematic position of the hip by registering projections of three‐dimensional computed tomography models with DF images. Patients with FAIS stood with their hip extended (mean [95% confidence interval], −2.2 [−7.4, 3.1]°, flexion positive), whereas controls were flexed (5.3 [2.6, 8.0]°; p = 0.013). Male patients with cam FAIS had less peak internal rotation than the male control participants during self‐selected speed level‐walking (−0.2 [−6.5, 6.1]° vs. −9.8 [−12.2, −7.3]°; p = 0.007) and less anterior pelvic tilt at heel‐strike of incline (5°) walking (3.4 [−1.0, −7.9]° vs. 9.8 [6.4, 13.2]°; p = 0.032). Even during submaximal range of motion activities, such as incline walking, patients may alter pelvic motion to avoid positions that approximate the cam lesion and the acetabular labrum. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:823‐833, 2020
Biofilm Producing Staphylococcus epidermidis (RP62A Strain) Inhibits Osseous Integration Without Osteolysis and Histopathology in a Murine Septic Implant Model
Authors: Tomizawa Takuya , Ishikawa Masahiro , Bello‐Irizarry Sheila N. , de Mesy Bentley Karen L. , Ito Hiromu , Kates Stephen L. , Daiss John L. , Beck Christopher , Matsuda Shuichi , Schwarz Edward M. , Nishitani Kohei
Published: November 2019

Despite its presence in orthopaedic infections, Staphylococcus epidermidis's ability to directly induce inflammation and bone destruction is unknown. Thus, we compared a clinical strain of methicillin‐resistant biofilm‐producing S. epidermidis (RP62A) to a highly virulent and osteolytic strain of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (USA300) in an established murine implant‐associated osteomyelitis model. Bacterial burden was assessed by colony forming units (CFUs), tissue damage was assessed by histology and micro‐computed tomography, biofilm was assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), host gene expression was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and osseous integration was assessed via biomechanical push‐out test. While CFUs were recovered from RP62A‐contaminated implants and surrounding tissues after 14 days, the bacterial burden was significantly less than USA300‐infected tibiae (p < 0.001). In addition, RP62A failed to produce any of the gross pathologies induced by USA300 (osteolysis, reactive bone formation, Staphylococcus abscess communities, marrow necrosis, and biofilm). However, fibrous tissue was present at the implant‐host interface, and rigorous SEM confirmed the rare presence of cocci on RP62A‐contaminated implants. Gene expression studies revealed that IL‐1β, IL‐6, RANKL, and TLR‐2 mRNA levels in RP62A‐infected bone were increased versus Sterile controls. Ex vivo push‐out testing showed that RP62A‐infected implants required significantly less force compared with the Sterile group (7.5 ± 3.4 vs. 17.3 ± 4.1 N; p < 0.001), but required 10‐fold greater force than USA300‐infected implants (0.7 ± 0.3 N; p < 0.001). Taken together, these findings demonstrate that S. epidermidis is a commensal pathogen whose mechanisms to inhibit osseous integration are limited to minimal biofilm formation on the implant, and low‐grade inflammation. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:852‐860, 2020
Early Growth Response Genes Increases Rapidly After Mechanical Overloading and Unloading in Tendon Constructs
Authors: Herchenhan Andreas , Dietrich‐Zagonel Franciele , Schjerling Peter , Kjær Michael , Eliasson Pernilla
Published: November 2019

Tendon cells exist in a dense extracellular matrix and mechanical loading is important for the strength development of this matrix. We therefore use a three‐dimensional (3D) culture system for tendon formation in vitro. The objectives of this study were to elucidate the temporal expression of tendon‐related genes during the formation of artificial tendons in vitro and to investigate if early growth response‐1 (EGR1), EGR2, FOS, and cyclooxygenase‐1 and ‐2 (PTGS1 and PTGS2) are sensitive to mechanical loading. First, we studied messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of several tendon‐related genes during formation of tendon constructs. Second, we studied the mRNA levels of, for example, EGR1 and EGR2 after different degrees of loading; dynamic physiologic‐range loading (2.5% strain), dynamic overloading (approximately 10% strain), or tension release. The gene expression for tendon‐related genes (i.e., EGR2, MKX, TNMD, COL3A1) increased with time after seeding into this 3D model. EGR1, EGR2, FOS, PTGS1, and PTGS2 did not respond to physiologic‐range loading. But overloading (and tension release) lead to elevated levels of EGR1 and EGR2 (p ≤ 0.006). FOS and PTGS2 were increased after overloading (both p < 0.007) but not after tension release (p = 0.06 and 0.08). In conclusion, the expression of tendon‐related genes increases during the formation of artificial tendons in vitro, including EGR2. Furthermore, the gene expression of EGR1 and EGR2 in human tendon cells appear to be sensitive to overloading and unloading but did not respond to the single episode of physiologic‐range loading. These findings could be helpful for the understanding of tendon tensional homeostasis. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:173–181, 2020
Effect of gingival phenotype on the maintenance of periodontal health: An American Academy of Periodontology best evidence review
Authors: Kim David M. , Bassir Seyed Hossein , Nguyen Thomas T.
Published: November 2019

Background

Gingival thickness, keratinized tissue width, and bone morphotype are three important parameters used to categorize periodontal phenotypes. These elements all play an important role in the maintenance of periodontal health. The aim of this review is to explore the importance of converting thin phenotype into a thick phenotype for periodontal health maintenance.

Methods

Three clinically relevant focused questions were defined to understand the role of gingival phenotype around teeth. 1) What are the factors affecting gingival phenotype (e.g., age, sex, dental arch, race, crown forms, etc.)? 2) Is there a difference between thin versus thick gingival phenotype in terms of gingival health? 3) Does the conversion of gingivae from a thin to thick gingival phenotype in sites without mucogingival defects help with periodontal health maintenance?

Results

Extensive electronic and manual literature search identified a total of 1,129 citations. After title, abstract, and full‐text screenings, 30 articles were included in the present review. Twenty‐five studies met the inclusion criteria and provided data for focused question 1. It was found that periodontal phenotype varies among different individuals and different areas of the mouth within the same individual. Asian individuals tend to have thinner gingival phenotype compared with white subjects. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria for the focused question 2. Prevalence and severity of gingival recession was higher at the sites with thin gingiva compared with the sites with thicker gingiva. No studies provided data for focused question 3.

Conclusions

Available evidence indicates that subjects with thin and narrow gingiva tend to have more gingival recession compared with those with thick and wide gingiva. Currently, there is no published evidence to support conversion of thin to thick gingival phenotype in sites without gingival recession or mucogingival deformity.
Thermosensitive molecularly imprinted poly(1‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone/methyl methacrylate/N‐vinylcaprolactam) for selective extraction of imatinib mesylate in human biological fluid
Authors: Kazemi Atefeh , Ahmad Panahi Homayon , Safaeijavan Raheleh
Published: November 2019

The efficiency of a molecularly imprinted polymer as a selective packing material for the solid‐phase extraction of imatinib mesylate sorption was investigated. The molecularly imprinted polymer was prepared using N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide as a cross‐linker agent, N‐vinylcaprolactam as a thermo‐sensitive monomer, 1‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone and methyl methacrylate as functional monomers, azobisisobutyronitrile as an initiator and imatinib mesylate as a template. The drug‐imprinted polymer was identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, elemental analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. It was found that this polymer can be used for determination of trace levels of imatinib mesylate with a recovery percentage that could reach over 90%. Furthermore, the synthesized molecularly imprinted polymer indicated higher selectivity towards imatinib mesylate than other compounds. From isotherm study, the equilibrium adsorption data of imatinib mesylate by imprinted polymer were analyzed by Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models. The developed method was used for determination of imatinib mesylate in human fluid samples by high performance liquid chromatography with excellent results.
Chromatography: An important tool for drug discovery
Authors: Ahmad Dar Alamgir , Sangwan P.L. , Kumar Anil
Published: November 2019

Despite substantial developments of extraction and separation techniques, isolation of natural products from natural sources is still a challenging task. Undoubtedly hybrid methods like liquid chromatography with NMR spectroscopy or liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry made on‐line structure elucidation possible and provided impressive examples of natural product identification without prior isolation, however, in many cases the necessity to get the purified compounds in hand is still a fact. The process begins with the collection of desired plant material which is subjected to the suitable extraction process. The complex crude extracts are then monitored by various chromatographic procedures to separate and quantify the desired compounds. The active plant extracts are then fractionated to isolate the bioactive compounds in their pure form. The fully identified compound is used as a lead for the production of related analogues to modulate the biological activity and to carry out structure‐activity relationship. The major isolated bioactive compound is used for semi‐synthetic modification or total synthesis should be carried out such that it is relatively easy to modify the structure of the lead compound. This is a simple and cost‐effective way to increase the chance to discover lead compounds. The biological activity in vitro and in vivo has to be done after purification.
The current response of soil thermal regime and carbon exchange of a paraglacial coastal land system in maritime Antarctica
Authors: Thomazini André , Francelino Márcio Rocha , Pereira Antonio Batista , Schünemann Adriano Luis , Mendonça Eduardo de Sá , Michel Roberto Ferreira Machado , Schaefer Carlos Ernesto Gonçalves Reynaud
Published: November 2019

Ice‐free areas of maritime Antarctica (MA) are undergoing rapid environmental adjustment due to climate change because glaciers retreated. In recently deglaciated areas, sensitive indicators related to soil can be used as proxies of the transition phase from glacial to nonglacial conditions at paraglacial coastal systems. This work aims at comprehending how paraglacial coastal land systems respond to adjustment processes in highly dynamic deglaciated areas, based on net ecosystem exchange, soil temperature (ST), and soil moisture (SM) temporal series in two different vegetation communities on a paraglacial coastal land system in MA. We selected a moss community (MC) and a mixed community with mosses and lichens (MLC). MC is located on a hydromorphic area with buffered ST regime, compared with MLC, where greater SM variation range and freezing conditions were observed. MC and MLC are currently acting as an atmospheric CO2 sink. In this work, MC showed a greater capacity of CO2 uptake during measurements (711.20 g CO2 m−2). In this part of Antarctica, where a recent trend of decreasing ST occurs, less permafrost and surface land degradation, combined with enhanced carbon storage, are expected. However, in the long term, following the readjustment of the paraglacial period, thawing is expected, coupled with permafrost degradation and carbon release to the atmosphere, under the predicted warming scenario in MA.
Exploring soil amendment strategies with polyacrylamide to improve soil health and oat productivity in a dryland farming ecosystem: One‐time versus repeated annual application
Authors: Ma Bin , Ma Bao‐Luo , McLaughlin Neil B. , Mi Junzhen , Yang Yanming , Liu Jinghui
Published: November 2019

Degraded lands resulting from human and natural causes are widespread in arid and semiarid regions throughout the world. Polyacrylamide (PAM) soil amendments are increasingly used to remediate these degraded lands with the potential benefits on soil health and crop production. However, the scientific evidence of farm‐scale use of one‐time versus repeated application of PAM has not been reported. The specific objective of this research was to determine the effects of single versus multiple annual PAM application on (a) the dynamic changes in soil quality parameters and (b) oat crop productivity indicators in a dryland farming ecosystem. Our data illustrated that multiple years of annual application of PAM significantly increased soil profile water storage, whereas it reduced soil bulk density and electrical conductivity in the top (0–20 cm) and deeper layers (20–60 cm) over those for the control or single PAM application. The improved soil microecological environments led to increased activities of soil enzymes urease (up to 106%), invertase (94%), and catalase (45%). These in turn promoted soil nutrient turnover and availability (e.g., 76% higher soil alkaline N) and crop growth leading to the improvement in grain protein (up to 31%), protein yield (58%), and partial factor productivity of nitrogen (20%), than did the control treatment. Taken together, these soil and crop performance indicators suggest that repeated annual PAM application for a minimum of 2–3 years would be an effective strategy to combat drought and land degradation and foster sustainable crop production in dryland agriculture under a changing climate scenario.
Thyroid lobe size predicts risk of postoperative temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis
Authors: Tsuzuki Nobuyoshi , Wasano Koichiro , Kawasaki Taiji , Sasaki Shun‐ichi , Ogawa Kaoru
Published: November 2019

Objectives

In patients who had undergone thyroidectomy in Japan for benign tumor, we determined whether thyroid lobe size correlates with temporary recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis (T‐RLNP).

Methods

We retrospectively collected medical record data on usage of intraoperative neuromonitoring, laterality of thyroidectomy, amount of bleeding during surgery, duration of surgery, and whether the surgeon was a board certified otorhinolaryngologist as determined by the Oto‐Rhino‐Laryngological Society of Japan. Thyroid size was measured in preoperative axial computed tomography (CT) images. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the thyroid size that predicted a high risk of T‐RLNP or permanent recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis (P‐RLNP).

Results

Of the 146 eligible patients identified, 9 (6.2%) developed T‐RLNP and 2 (1.4%) developed P‐RLNP. The amount of bleeding during thyroidectomy was significantly greater in T‐RLNP patients than in P‐RLNP patients. Thyroid sizes in CT images were significantly larger in T‐RLNP patients compared to patients who did not develop RLNP (referred to hereafter as N‐RLNP). ROC analysis revealed that 1.3% of thyroid lobes with an area of less than 1000.0 mm2, and 9.9% of thyroid lobes with an area of greater than 1000.0 mm2 were at risk for T‐RLNP.

Conclusion

We presented evidence that thyroid sizes, as measured on preoperative axial CT images, were larger in T‐RLNP patients than in N‐RLNP patients. Our results indicate a connection between benign thyroid tumor stretch injuries and T‐RLNP.

Level of Evidence

IV.
Accounting for seasonal and composition‐related variability in acoustic material properties in estimating copepod and krill target strength
Authors: Sakinan Serdar , Lawson Gareth L. , Wiebe Peter H. , Chu Dezhang , Copley Nancy J.
Published: November 2019

Estimation of abundance or biomass, using acoustic techniques requires knowledge of the frequency dependent acoustic backscatter characteristics, or target strength, of organisms. Target strength of zooplankton is typically estimated from physics‐based models that involve multiple parameters, notably including the acoustic material properties (i.e., the contrasts in density and sound speed between the animal and surrounding seawater). In this work, variability in the acoustic material properties of two zooplankton species in the Gulf of Maine, the copepod (Calanus finmarchicus) and krill (Meganyctiphanes norvegica), was investigated relative to changing season as well as, for the copepod, temperature and depth. Increases in the density and sound speed contrasts of these species from fall to spring were observed. Target strength predictions based on these measurements varied between fall and spring by 2‐3 dB in krill. Measurements were also conducted on C. finmarchicus lipid extract at changing temperature and pressure. The density contrast of the extract varied negatively with temperature, while the sound speed contrast changed by more than 10 % over the temperature and pressure ranges that the organism expected to occupy. C. finmarchicus target strength predictions showed that the combined effect of temperature and pressure can be significant (more than 10 dB) due to the varying response of lipids. The large vertical migration ranges and lipid accumulation characteristics of these species (e.g., the diapause behaviour of Calanus copepods) suggest that it is necessary for seasonal and environmental variability in material properties to be taken into account to achieve reliable measurements.
Vanishing for Hodge ideals on toric varieties
Authors: Dutta Yajnaseni
Published: November 2019

In this article we construct a Koszul‐type resolution of the exterior power of the sheaf of holomorphic differential forms on smooth toric varieties and use this to prove a Nadel‐type vanishing theorem for Hodge ideals associated to effective ‐divisors on smooth projective toric varieties. This extends earlier results of Mustaţă and Popa.
Capacity sharing with different oligopolistic competition and government regulation in a supply chain
Authors: Chen Junlong , Xie Xinran , Liu Jiali
Published: November 2019

This paper constructs a capacity sharing model in a supply chain to reveal the factors affecting equilibrium outcomes. The results show that improving the technical level lowers capacity charge and increases seller profits in any case. Product differentiation has uncertain impacts on equilibrium outcomes, which depend on government regulations and oligopolistic competition models. The improvement of supplier's fixed component of marginal costs improves capacity sharing charge and reduces profits and consumer surplus. The government regulations and oligopolistic competition model directly affect equilibrium outcomes and welfare distribution. Government capacity control helps improve social welfare, but the effect of government subsidies is uncertain.
Organisational form and quality, service, and cleanliness inspection scores in restaurant franchise chains: Evidence from Spain
Authors: Vázquez‐Suárez Luis , Mejía‐Vásquez Pericles Ramón , Sánchez‐Gómez Roberto
Published: November 2019

This study investigates how the organisational form (company ownership vs. franchising) of individual restaurants of a large Spanish restaurant company influences their inspection scores in terms of quality, service, and cleanliness (QSC). The research uses a panel data set that includes bimonthly restaurant‐level data on QSC inspection scores. The aggregate data initially reveal substantial differences between company‐owned and franchised restaurants. Nevertheless, after controlling for other variables, we observe that such differences are in fact minor, or even nonexistent. In addition, when we endogenise the selection of the restaurants' organisational form, the differences become statistically insignificant.
Lab‐on‐a‐Chip for hydrogen sulphide detection—Part II: Integrated with screen‐printed electrode
Authors: Baniya Ashok , Thapa Suvhashis , Borquist Eric , Bailey Davis , Wood Deborah , Kevil Chris , Arumugam Prabhu , Weiss Leland
Published: November 2019

The measurement of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) has held the attention of the analytical community due to its unique physiological and pathophysiological roles in biological systems. This work reports fabrication and characterization of screen‐printed electrode (SPE) integrated lab‐on‐a‐chip (LOAC) for H2S detection. The device has been designed to detect all forms of H2S present in the plasma; however, current work is a proof of concept of device operation for free sulphide. The device consists of three distinct layers for H2S separation and SPE to detect H2S. It operates with pH‐dependent liberation and trapping from samples introduced. The first layer, the releasing layer, consists of a releasing chamber for the liberation of H2S. The second layer, a silicone membrane, is where gas diffuses from the sample layer to the third layer. The third layer, the trapping layer, is integrated with SPE to determine the concentration of H2S. The device uses an electrochemical technique. First, electrode performances are tested on the cell vial to establish suitability for subsequent LOAC incorporation. Common metal electrodes are compared with boron‐doped ultra‐nano‐crystalline diamond (BDUNCD) electrode and SPE. The range of detection, detection limit, and sensitivity of the electrode are characterized. In conclusion, a proof of concept of an electrochemical sensing of H2S in a LOAC is reported. The device is portable, robust and can easily be fabricated. Transfer data indicated that 10% sulphide detected into the trapping chamber in a reproducible manner at 20 min. The SPE integrated LOAC shows a huge advantage over conventional techniques.
College takes multilayer approach to addressing student mental health
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2019

Demand for mental health services on college campuses has soared in recent years, leaving administrators scrambling to diversify in‐house services and to partner with community resources where necessary. In some respects, university leadership faces some of the same challenges the mental health provider community is experiencing: optimizing care for a more informed consumer in a more time‐limited environment.
Regularized solution for backward heat equation in Sobolev space
Authors: Hapuarachchi Sujeewa , Xu Yongzhi S.
Published: November 2019

Inverse problems in partial deferential equations are severely ill posed in the sense of Hadamard. So the heat equation with a terminal condition problem is ill posed even in the sobolev space so regularization is needed. In this paper, we discuss about the convergence result of the approximation problem in the Sobolev space
, which is well posed. By using a small parameter, we construct an approximation problem and use a quasi‐boundary value method to regularize nonlinear heat equation. Finally, we prove the approximation solution converges to the original solution whenever the parameter goes to zero in
.
Numerical solutions of random mean square Fisher‐KPP models with advection
Authors: Casabán María Consuelo , Company Rafael , Jódar Lucas
Published: November 2019

This paper deals with the construction of numerical stable solutions of random mean square Fisher‐Kolmogorov‐Petrosky‐Piskunov (Fisher‐KPP) models with advection. The construction of the numerical scheme is performed in two stages. Firstly, a semidiscretization technique transforms the original continuous problem into a nonlinear inhomogeneous system of random differential equations. Then, by extending to the random framework, the ideas of the exponential time differencing method, a full vector discretization of the problem addresses to a random vector difference scheme. A sample approach of the random vector difference scheme, the use of properties of Metzler matrices and the logarithmic norm allow the proof of stability of the numerical solutions in the mean square sense. In spite of the computational complexity, the results are illustrated by comparing the results with a test problem where the exact solution is known.
Fractional derivative heat conduction modeling based on thermal elements combination
Authors: Fang Jun , Sun HongGuang , Zhang Cuiping
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes a general theoretical framework to establish the time‐space fractional derivative models for non‐Fourier heat conduction. Similar to viscoelastic modeling in mechanics, some new heat conduction elements are proposed instead of mechanical ones. With different combinations of the thermal elements, the time‐space fractional generalizations, such as the Kelvin‐Voigt model, the Maxwell model, and the Zener model, are presented. In addition, it is possible to obtain the fractional derivative heat conduction equations from the corresponding transport equations. While incorporating the existing non‐Fourier heat conduction models into the proposed theoretical framework, some new time‐space fractional derivative models are presented. Finally, the nonlocal models considering the long‐range heat fluxes are investigated and confirmed to be consistent with the proposed framework.
On the choice of the best members of the Kim family and the improvement of its convergence
Authors: Chicharro López Francisco Israel , Cordero Alicia , Garrido Neus , Torregrosa Juan Ramon
Published: November 2019

The best members of the Kim family, in terms of stability, are obtained by using complex dynamics. From this elements, parametric iterative methods with memory are designed. A dynamical analysis of the methods with memory is presented in order to obtain information about the stability of them. Numerical experiments are shown for confirming the theoretical results.
A 23‐31 GHz gallium nitride high‐robustness low‐noise amplifier with 1.1‐dB noise figure and 28‐dBm saturation output power
Authors: Zheng Penghui , Zhang Shiyong , Xu Jianxing , Wang Rong , Tong Xiaodong
Published: November 2019

A 23 to 31 GHz low‐noise amplifier (LNA) based on 0.1‐μm gallium nitride (GaN) on silicon (Si) microwave monolithic integrated circuit process is presented in this work. Three‐stage cascade topology was used in the LNA design with chip area of 1.9 × 0.8 mm2. The measured linear gain is 22 to 27 dB with low input and output return loss. The noise figure (NF) was measured with cold source methodology, which is 0.93 to 1.36 dB across the working frequency band. The power characteristics were measured, which indicate that this LNA has 1‐dB compression point output power (P1dB) of 23 dBm and saturated output power (Psat) of 28 dBm. The measured output‐referred third‐order intercept point (OIP3) was at 34 dBm level, which indicates the high linearity of this LNA. To inspect the robustness, 30 dBm continuous wave input power was injected into the working LNA for 5 minutes, no obvious degradation was found after stress. Compared with the traditional gallium arsenide (GaAs) and indium phosphide (InP) LNA, GaN LNA reported in this work has comparable NF but much higher robustness. Moreover, this LNA has very high linearity, which increases the immunity to jamming signal, enables more complicated modulation mode and improves data throughput. As we know, there is no GaN LNA achieving such high P1dB and Psat with NF below 1.4 dB at this frequency band. This GaN LNA has a great potential in the applications of electronic war, anti‐electromagnetic interference and signal detection.
Effect of PMMA and PVA coating on the performance of optical microbottle resonator humidity sensors
Authors: Johari Md Ashadi Md , Pour Meisam Parsa , Al Noman Abdullah , Khudus Muhammad Imran Mustafa Abdul , Jali Mohd Hafiz Bin , Maslinda M. S. , Ali Ummu Umairah Mohd , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: November 2019

This article compares the performances of uncoated and coated optical microbottle resonators (MBR) for humidity sensing. A technique called “soften‐and‐compress” was used to form the MBR with midriff diameter of
D
b = 190 μm, stem diameter of
D
s = 125 μm and bottle length of
L
b = 182 μm. The MBRs were prepared in three different conditions, which are noncoated MBR, PMMA (poly methyl meth acrylate) coated MBR, and PVA (polyvinyl‐alcohol) coated MBR. The MBRs characteristic was investigated by employing a 2 μm tapered microfiber and tested for humidity sensing within a humidity range of 40% to 95%. The Q‐factor obtained were >104 for all MBRs. The performance as humidity sensor was defined by the sensitivity and linearity of MBRs, which were investigated based on wavelength shift and also the transmitted power. The MBRs are undergoing a 180‐seconds stability test at 65% RH humidity level. It is found that the PVA coated MBR performed better than other MBRs as a humidity sensor based on sensitivity, linearity, and stability measurements.
Dual polarized, slot coupled monostatic antenna with high isolation for 2.4 GHz full duplex applications
Authors: Nawaz Haq , Basit Muhammad A. , Shaukat Furqan
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a compact, dual polarized, differentially fed monostatic slot coupled patch antenna with high isolation between transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) ports for 2.4GHz simultaneous transmit and receive (STAR) or in‐band full duplex (IBFD) wireless applications. By using the proposed differential feeding for receive (Rx) mode operation through symmetrically placed feeds of radiating patch, the self‐interference (SI) is well canceled to demonstrate high Tx‐Rx interport isolation. The simulation and measurement results for presented IBFD antenna indicate very high levels of interport isolation achieved through differential feeding based self‐interference cancellation (SIC) mechanism. The implemented prototype (validation model) of proposed dual port, dual polarized, slot coupled antenna achieves more than 95 dB peak isolation and 90 dB isolation in 20 MHz bandwidth. Moreover, the achieved Tx‐Rx isolation is around 85 dB within antenna's 10 dB‐return loss impedance bandwidth of 45 MHz. To the best of our knowledge, these are the highest levels of interport RF isolation reported for dual polarized monostatic patch antenna.
Dual−/tri‐band bandpass filter using multimode rectangular SIW cavity
Authors: Yang Zeng , You Bin , Luo Guoqing
Published: November 2019

This article presents the novel dual−/tri‐band bandpass filter (BPF) by using the multimode rectangular substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) structure. A dual‐band BPF is realized based on a single rectangular SIW structure by using perturbed metallized via‐holes. The perturbations, located at the center of the cavity, are used to shift the resonant frequencies of the TE101 and TE301 modes. This method leads that TE101 and TE201 modes constitute the first passband while TE301 and TE401 modes constitute the second passband. A tri‐band BPF is implemented by vertically coupling two single‐mode SIW cavities to the perturbed rectangular SIW. Due to the cross‐coupling of the high/low order modes, there are two transmission zeros (TZs), which improve the stopband rejection of the filters, in the upper band of each passband. A dual‐band BPF operating at 6.95GHz and 7.95GHz with four TZs and a tri‐band BPF operating at 6.5, 7.35, and 8.15 GHz with six TZs have been designed, fabricated, and measured. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulated ones.
Extracellular pH mapping of liver cancer on a clinical 3T MRI scanner
Authors: Coman Daniel , Peters Dana C. , Walsh John J. , Savic Lynn J. , Huber Steffen , Sinusas Albert J. , Lin MingDe , Chapiro Julius , Constable R. Todd , Rothman Douglas L. , Duncan James S. , Hyder Fahmeed
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To demonstrate feasibility of developing a noninvasive extracellular pH (pHe) mapping method on a clinical MRI scanner for molecular imaging of liver cancer.

Methods

In vivo pHe mapping has been demonstrated on preclinical scanners (e.g., 9.4T, 11.7T) with Biosensor Imaging of Redundant Deviation in Shifts (BIRDS), where the pHe readout by 3D chemical shift imaging (CSI) depends on hyperfine shifts emanating from paramagnetic macrocyclic chelates like TmDOTP5− which upon extravasation from blood resides in the extracellular space. We implemented BIRDS‐based pHe mapping on a clinical 3T Siemens scanner, where typically diamagnetic 1H signals are detected using millisecond‐long radiofrequency (RF) pulses, and 1H shifts span over ±10 ppm with long transverse (T2, 102 ms) and longitudinal (T1, 103 ms) relaxation times. We modified this 3D‐CSI method for ultra‐fast acquisition with microsecond‐long RF pulses, because even at 3T the paramagnetic 1H shifts of TmDOTP5− have millisecond‐long T2 and T1 and ultra‐wide chemical shifts (±200 ppm) as previously observed in ultra‐high magnetic fields.

Results

We validated BIRDS‐based pH in vitro with a pH electrode. We measured pHe in a rabbit model for liver cancer using VX2 tumors, which are highly vascularized and hyperglycolytic. Compared to intratumoral pHe (6.8 ± 0.1; P < 10−9) and tumor's edge pHe (6.9 ± 0.1; P < 10−7), liver parenchyma pHe was significantly higher (7.2 ± 0.1). Tumor localization was confirmed with histopathological markers of necrosis (hematoxylin and eosin), glucose uptake (glucose transporter 1), and tissue acidosis (lysosome‐associated membrane protein 2).

Conclusion

This work demonstrates feasibility and potential clinical translatability of high‐resolution pHe mapping to monitor tumor aggressiveness and therapeutic outcome, all to improve personalized cancer treatment planning.