bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Synthesis of Novel Cytotoxic Indole‐Thiosemicarbazone Derivatives: Biological Evaluation and Docking Study
Authors: Bakherad Zohreh , Safavi Maliheh , Fassihi Afshin , Sadeghi‐Aliabadi Hojjat , Bakherad Mohammad , Rastegar Hossein , Saeedi Mina , Ghasemi Jahan B , Saghaie Lotfollah , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: March 2019

In this work, two novel series of indole‐thiosemicarbazone derivatives were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their cytotoxic activity against MCF‐7, A‐549, and Hep‐G2 cell lines in comparison to etoposide and colchicine as the reference drugs. Generally, the synthesized compounds showed better cytotoxicity towards A‐549 and Hep‐G2 than MCF‐7. Among them, (2E)‐2‐{[2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl]methylidene}‐N‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)hydrazinecarbothioamide (8l) was found to be the most potent compound against A‐549 and Hep‐G2, at least three times more potent than etoposide. The morphological analysis by the acridine orange/ethidium bromide double staining test and flow cytometry analysis indicated that compound 8l induced apoptosis in A‐549 cells. Moreover, molecular docking methodology was exploited to elucidate the details of molecular interactions of the studied compounds with putative targets.
Strangulated recurrent rectal prolapse after a Delorme intervention, a case report
Authors: Malibary Nadim , Brigand Cecile
Published: March 2019

Key Clinical Message

A surgeon must be aware of indications of rectal prolapse surgery with proper preoperative evaluation and have the ability to recognize complications. Sigmoid redundancy might lead to early recurrence, which itself could complicate into strangulation. Complications per say might require more drastic measures, as Hartmann's procedure in this case.
Confronting the Challenges of Next‐Generation Silicon Anode‐Based Lithium‐Ion Batteries: Role of Designer Electrolyte Additives and Polymeric Binders
Authors: Eshetu Gebrekidan Gebresilassie , Figgemeier Egbert
Published: March 2019

Silicon has emerged as the next‐generation anode material for high‐capacity lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). It is currently of scientific and practical interest to encounter increasingly growing demands for high energy/power density electrochemical energy‐storage devices for use in electric vehicles (xEVs), renewable energy sources, and smart grid/utility applications. Improvements to existing conventional LIBs are required to provide higher energy, longer cycle lives. This is attributed to its unparalleled theoretical capacity (4200 mAh g−1 for Li4.4Si), which is approximately 10 times higher than that of a state‐of‐the‐art graphitic anode (372 mAh g−1 for LiC6), with a suitable operating voltage, natural abundance, environmental benignity, nontoxicity, high safety, and so forth. However, despite the overwhelming beneficial features, the practical integration of LIBs containing a silicon anode beyond the commercial niche is hampered by unavoidable challenges, such as excessive volume changes during the (de‐)alloying process, inherently low electrical and ionic conductivities, an unstable solid–electrolyte interphase, and electrolyte drying out. Among various extenuating strategies, non‐electrode factors encompassing electrolyte additives and polymeric binders are regarded as the most economical, and effective approaches towards circumventing these disadvantages are in short supply. With the aim of providing an in‐depth insight into rapidly growing accounts of electrolyte additives and binders for use with silicon anode‐based LIBs, this Review assesses the current state of the art of research and thereby examines opportunities to open up new avenues for the practical realization of these silicon anode‐based LIBs.
The synthetic cathinone psychostimulant α‐PPP antagonizes serotonin 5‐HT2A receptors: In vitro and in vivo evidence
Authors: Chen Yiming , Blough Bruce E. , Murnane Kevin S. , Canal Clinton E.
Published: March 2019

Synthetic cathinones (SCs) are β‐keto analogs of amphetamines. Like amphetamines, SCs target monoamine transporters; however, unusual neuropsychiatric symptoms have been associated with abuse of some SCs, suggesting SCs might possess additional pharmacological properties. We performed radioligand competition binding assays to assess the affinities of nine SCs at human 5‐HT2A receptors (5‐HT2AR) and muscarinic M1 receptors (M1R) transiently expressed in HEK293 cells. None of the SCs exhibited affinity at M1R (minimal displacement of [~Kd] [3H]scopolamine up to 10 μM). However, two SCs, α‐pyrrolidinopropiophenone (α‐PPP) and 4‐methyl‐α‐PPP, had low μM Ki values at 5‐HT2AR. In 5‐HT2AR–phosphoinositide hydrolysis assays, α‐PPP and 4‐methyl‐α‐PPP displayed inverse agonist activity. We further assessed the 5‐HT2AR functional activity of α‐PPP, and observed it competitively antagonized 5‐HT2AR signaling stimulated by the 5‐HT2R agonist (±)‐2,5‐dimethoxy‐4‐iodoamphetamine (DOI; Kb = 851 nM). To assess in vivo 5‐HT2AR activity, we examined the effects of α‐PPP on the DOI‐elicited head‐twitch response (HTR) in mice. α‐PPP dose‐dependently blocked the HTR with maximal suppression at 10 mg/kg (P < 0.0001), which is a moderate dose used in studies investigating psychostimulant properties of α‐PPP. To corroborate a 5‐HT2AR mechanism, we also tested 3,4‐methylenedioxy‐α‐PPP (MDPPP) and 3‐bromomethcathinone (3‐BMC), SCs that we observed had 5‐HT2AR Kis > 10 μM. Neither MDPPP nor 3‐BMC, at 10 mg/kg doses, attenuated the DOI HTR. Our results suggest α‐PPP has antagonist interactions at 5‐HT2AR in vitro that may translate at physiologically‐relevant doses in vivo. Considering 5‐HT2AR antagonism has been shown to mitigate effects of psychostimulants, this property may contribute to α‐PPPs unpopularity compared to other monoamine transporter inhibitors.
IPM2: toward better understanding and forecasting of population dynamics
Authors: Plard Floriane , Turek Daniel , Grüebler Martin U. , Schaub Michael
Published: March 2019

Dynamic population models typically aim to predict demography and the resulting population dynamics in relation to environmental variation. However, they rarely include the diversity of individual responses to environmental changes, thus hampering our understanding of demographic mechanisms. We develop an integrated integral projection model (IPM2) that is a combination of an integrated population model (IPMpop) and an integral projection model (IPMind). IPM2 includes interactions between environmental and individual effects on demographic rates and can forecast both population size and individual trait distributions. First, we study the performance of this model using eight simulated scenarios with variable reproductive selective pressures on an individual trait. When the individual trait interacts with the environmental variable and the selective pressure on the individual trait is nonlinear, only IPM2 produces adequate predictions, because IPMind does not link predictions between the population level and observed data and because IPMpop does not include the individual trait. Second, we apply IPM2 to a population of barn swallows. The model accurately predicts trends of the barn swallow population while also providing mechanistic insights. High precipitation negatively influenced population dynamics through delaying laying dates, which lowered reproductive and survival rates. To predict the future of populations, we need to understand their individual drivers and thus include individual responses to their environment while following the entire population. As a consequence, IPM2 will improve our ability to test ecological and evolutionary hypotheses and improve the accuracy of population forecasting to aid management programs.
Observations of a novel predatory gull behavior on an invasive ascidian: A new consequence of coastal urban sprawl?
Authors: Holman Luke E. , Rius Marc , Blackburn Tim M.
Published: March 2019

Coastal urbanization has a dramatic effect on both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, altering resources such as food or space. Many species have shifted their ranges in response to anthropogenic pressures, resulting in novel species interactions. Here, we report an observation of a novel foraging behavior of the European Herring Gull (Larus argentatus): the capture and consumption of the widespread sea squirt Ciona intestinalis from under floating pontoons in a recreational marina in Ireland. Multiple gulls were observed performing a complex, multi‐step manipulation of several C. intestinalis individuals to remove their cellulose‐based tunic, which remained unconsumed. Further avenues of investigation are discussed, and hypotheses concerning possible ecosystem effects of novel ecological interactions occurring in proliferating artificial environments are presented.
NH2‐Functionalized Multi Walled Carbon Nanotubes Decorated with ZnO Nanoparticles and Graphene Quantum Dots for Sensitive Assay of Pimozide
Authors: Aftab Saima , Kurbanoglu Sevinc , Ozcelikay Goksu , Shah Afzal , Ozkan Sibel A.
Published: March 2019

In this study, a novel and sensitive electrochemical nanosensor for the determination of antipsychotic drug Pimozide (PZ) is proposed using NH2functionalized multi walled carbon nanotubes (NH2fMWCNT) decorated with and ZnO nanoparticles (ZnONPs) co‐catalyzed by graphene quantum dots (GQDs). Prior to electrochemical analyses of PZ, the designed nanosensor was well characterized in terms of surface morphology by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and SEM armed with EDX analysis. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) employed to investigate the electron transfer capability and cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique was used to successfully compare the redox response of PZ on the surface of modified and unmodified electrode. The designed nanosensor response was linear between 6.25×10−11–1.20×10−7 M concentration range of PZ with a limit of detection value as 1.02×10−11 M. The influence of interfering agents was further studied to examine the selectivity of the designed sensor. A rapid screening of PZ as is required in pharmaceutical and biological samples underscores the paramount importance of nano based electrochemical sensor for its sensitive and selective detection.
Impacts of the murine skull on high‐frequency transcranial photoacoustic brain imaging
Authors: Liang Bingyang , Liu Wei , Zhan Qiwei , Li Mucong , Zhuang Mingwei , Liu Qing H. , Yao Junjie
Published: March 2019

Non‐invasive photoacoustic tomography (PAT) of mouse brains with intact skulls has been a challenge due to the skull's strong acoustic attenuation, aberration, and reverberation, especially in the high‐frequency range (>15 MHz). In this paper, we systematically investigated the impacts of the murine skull on the photoacoustic wave propagation and on the PAT image reconstruction. We studied the photoacoustic acoustic wave aberration due to the acoustic impedance mismatch at the skull boundaries and the mode conversion between the longitudinal wave and shear wave. The wave's reverberation within the skull was investigated for both longitudinal and shear modes. In the inverse process, we reconstructed the transcranial photoacoustic computed tomography (PACT) and photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) images of a point target enclosed by the mouse skull, showing the skull's different impacts on both modalities. Finally, we experimentally validated the simulations by imaging an in vitro mouse skull phantom using representative transcranial PAM and PACT systems. The experimental results agreed well with the simulations and confirmed the accuracy of our forward and inverse models. We expect that our results will provide better understanding of the impacts of the murine skull on transcranial photoacoustic brain imaging and pave the ways for future technical improvements.
Reference values for handgrip strength and their association with intrinsic capacity domains among older adults
Authors: Ramírez‐Vélez Robinson , Correa‐Bautista Jorge Enrique , García‐Hermoso Antonio , Cano Carlos Alberto , Izquierdo Mikel
Published: March 2019

Objective

The purposes of this study were three‐fold: (i) to describe handgrip strength in older individuals aged ≥60 years in Colombia; (ii) to identify sex‐specific and age‐specific muscle weakness cut‐off points in older adults; and (iii) to determine the odds of adverse events for each of the intrinsic capacity domains for individuals with handgrip strength greater than the muscle weakness cut‐off points, as compared with their weaker counterparts.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in Colombia, among 5237 older adults aged ≥60 years old (58.5% women, 70.5 ± 7.8 years), according to ‘SABE Survey 2015’. Handgrip strength data were obtained with a Takei dynamometer. Sociodemographic variables, five domains of intrinsic capacity (i.e. locomotion, vitality, cognition, psychological, and sensory), and medical conditions were assessed and analyzed. Adjustments variables were age, ethnicity, socio‐economic status, urbanicity, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol intake, drug use, physical activity, and co‐morbid chronic diseases. Sex‐stratified analyses were conducted with logistic regression models.

Results

Handgrip strength was greater among men than among women (26.7 ± 8.5 vs. 16.7 ± 5.7 kg, respectively, P < 0.001) at all ages. Weak handgrip strength cut‐off points ranged from 17.4 to 8.6 and from 10.1 to 4.9 in men and women, respectively. Overall, participants with optimal handgrip strength had better intrinsic capacity [in men, odds ratio (OR) = 0.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 0.71; P < 0.001; and in women, OR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.92; P = 0.002] than their weaker counterparts. Also, men with optimal handgrip strength had a lower risk of hospitalization (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.78; P = 0.004) than their weaker counterparts.

Conclusions

This study is the first to describe handgrip strength values and cut‐off points for muscle weakness among a nationally representative sample of Colombian older adults by age and sex. After categorizing older adults as weak or not weak based on the handgrip cut‐off points, non‐weakness was associated with a decreased odds of intrinsic capacity impairments. These cut‐off points may be good candidates for clinical assessment of risks to physical and mental health in older Colombian adults.
Cell therapy to improve regeneration of skeletal muscle injuries
Authors: Qazi Taimoor H. , Duda Georg N. , Ort Melanie J. , Perka Carsten , Geissler Sven , Winkler Tobias
Published: March 2019

Diseases that jeopardize the musculoskeletal system and cause chronic impairment are prevalent throughout the Western world. In Germany alone, ~1.8 million patients suffer from these diseases annually, and medical expenses have been reported to reach 34.2bn Euros. Although musculoskeletal disorders are seldom fatal, they compromise quality of life and diminish functional capacity. For example, musculoskeletal disorders incur an annual loss of over 0.8 million workforce years to the German economy. Among these diseases, traumatic skeletal muscle injuries are especially problematic because they can occur owing to a variety of causes and are very challenging to treat. In contrast to chronic muscle diseases such as dystrophy, sarcopenia, or cachexia, traumatic muscle injuries inflict damage to localized muscle groups. Although minor muscle trauma heals without severe consequences, no reliable clinical strategy exists to prevent excessive fibrosis or fatty degeneration, both of which occur after severe traumatic injury and contribute to muscle degeneration and dysfunction. Of the many proposed strategies, cell‐based approaches have shown the most promising results in numerous pre‐clinical studies and have demonstrated success in the handful of clinical trials performed so far. A number of myogenic and non‐myogenic cell types benefit muscle healing, either by directly participating in new tissue formation or by stimulating the endogenous processes of muscle repair. These cell types operate via distinct modes of action, and they demonstrate varying levels of feasibility for muscle regeneration depending, to an extent, on the muscle injury model used. While in some models the injury naturally resolves over time, other models have been developed to recapitulate the peculiarities of real‐life injuries and therefore mimic the structural and functional impairment observed in humans. Existing limitations of cell therapy approaches include issues related to autologous harvesting, expansion and sorting protocols, optimal dosage, and viability after transplantation. Several clinical trials have been performed to treat skeletal muscle injuries using myogenic progenitor cells or multipotent stromal cells, with promising outcomes. Recent improvements in our understanding of cell behaviour and the mechanistic basis for their modes of action have led to a new paradigm in cell therapies where physical, chemical, and signalling cues presented through biomaterials can instruct cells and enhance their regenerative capacity. Altogether, these studies and experiences provide a positive outlook on future opportunities towards innovative cell‐based solutions for treating traumatic muscle injuries—a so far unmet clinical need.
A cell retention system composed of cellulose acetate hollow fiber membranes for cultivation of Dunaliella salina in a helical photobioreactor
Authors: Ershad Ghazaleh Amini , Jazini Mohammadhadi , Fashandi Hossein , Shariati Mansour
Published: March 2019

Background

One of the challenges in commercial‐scale cultivation of Dunaliella salina is low biomass productivity and concentration. In addition, cultivations in wastewaters may encounter some nutrient limitations. Hence, there is a need for a cultivation system which is capable of continuous provision of nutrients while the cells are retained in the system. In this study, the feasibility of using a cell retention system (CRS) for increasing biomass productivity and concentration of D. salina was investigated. The CRS was composed of cellulose acetate hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) coupled with a helical photobioreactor.

Results

Using the produced HFMs with mean pore size of 124 nm and overall porosity of 78.9%, the rejection of D. salina microalgae was as high as 93.2%. Continuous cultivation of D. salina in the helical photobioreactor at a dilution rate of 0.48 day−1 resulted in a biomass productivity (concentration) of 4.9 × 107 cells L−1 h−1 (2.7 × 106 cells mL−1). Interestingly, cultivation at the same initial dilution rate (0.48 day−1) in the helical photobioreactor coupled with the CRS resulted in a biomass productivity (concentration) of 9.3 × 107 cells L−1 h−1 (6.7 × 106 cells mL−1).

Conclusions

The results revealed the potential of the proposed system for enhancing biomass productivity by 90% and biomass concentration by more than twofold. The cultivation system is also proposed as a potential tool for cultivations in wastewaters. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluation of the effect of agitation speed on the growth and high‐value LC‐PUFA formation of Porphyridium cruentum based on basic rheological analysis
Authors: Hu Hao , Wang Hou‐Feng , Li Jia‐Yun , Ma Lin‐Lin , Shen Xiao‐Fei , Zeng Raymond J
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

The selection of hydrodynamic properties of microalgae such as agitation speed is usually done according to empirical values without a technical basis, and the selected agitation speeds are not consistent with each other in many references. In this study, we aimed to provide a possible technical basis for the setup of the agitation speed of microalgae suspensions based on basic rheological analysis, in terms of viscosity of microalgae suspensions at different agitation speeds, using the red microalga Porphyridium cruentum as a model.

RESULTS

The agitation speed of 150 rpm was optimal for P. cruentum cultivation, with its biomass concentration increased by about 19–57% compared with the microalgae cultured at other agitation speeds. Meanwhile, the content of linoleic acid, arachidonic acid and total fatty acids increased by maximum 103%, 58% and 48%, respectively, compared with those at other agitation speeds. Furthermore, a low rotational speed was beneficial for eicosapentaenoic acid formation (which increased by 72–106%).

CONCLUSION

Basic rheological analysis of microalgal suspensions can be used as a guide in setting a reasonable and suitable agitation speed. Meanwhile, the agitation speed could affect both the biomass growth and the formation of certain high‐value products of microalgae. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Long‐term follow‐up after radiofrequency ablation of ectopic atrial tachycardia in young patients
Authors: Balla Cristina , Foresti Sara , Ali Hussam , Sorgente Antonio , Egidy Assenza Gabriele , De Ambroggi Guido , Epicoco Gianluca , Lupo Pierpaolo , Cappato Riccardo
Published: March 2019

Aim

Ectopic atrial tachycardia (EAT) is a common arrhythmia in children, adolescents, and young adults. Radiofrequency (RF) ablation is often considered the treatment of choice in this population. We sought to evaluate the long‐term follow‐up after RF ablation.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively analyzed 36 young patients (age range 8‐29 years), with clinical signs and symptoms suspected for EAT who underwent an electrophysiological study in our center. We evaluated the safety and acute success rate of ablation and the long‐term follow‐up. Ectopic foci were more frequently localized in the right atrium along the crista terminalis (28%) and EAT was successfully terminated in 97% of patients. At median follow‐up (38 months), the recurrence rate was 20% with mostly recurrences expressed within 6 months.

Conclusions

The study confirmed the safety and high acute success rate of EAT ablation in a population of children, adolescents, and young adults. Therefore, catheter ablation of EAT can be considered early in the course of treatment of these patients. The evidence of most recurrences within 6 months could be useful for advising patients on likely outcomes.
Unusual ventricular entrainment response: What is the mechanism?
Authors: Ozeke Ozcan , Cay Serkan , Ozcan Firat , Hacili Ayten , Karimli Emin , Altiparmak Ibrahim Halil , Kara Meryem , Sahin Mursel , Burak Cengiz , Kuyumcu Mevlut Serdar , Koca Serhat , Demir Gultekin Gunhan , Topaloglu Serkan , Aras Dursun
Published: March 2019

Entrainment is an important tool for the diagnosis and location of reentry. The usefulness of this maneuver requires that, prior to cessation of ventricular pacing, the atrial rate accelerates to the ventricular pacing rate. Moreover, it is important to verify the continuation of the tachycardia following cessation of entrainment. The recognizing the last entrained atrial beat is utmost important to avoid erroneous A–A–V labeling.
Trend analysis of tropospheric specific humidity over Iran during 1979–2016
Authors: Darand Mohammad , Pazhooh Farshad , Saligheh Mohammad
Published: March 2019

In this study, the variation and trend of specific humidity (SH) of the troposphere (1,000–500 hPa) over Iran was analysed using the monthly European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) Re‐Analysis Interim (ERA‐Interim) gridded data from January 1979 to December 2016. By using nonparametric modified Mann–Kendall test, the trend of values for each gridded point was tested in eight different atmospheric levels at 95% confidence level. The Sen's slope estimator test was used to estimate the change rate. The findings showed that the annual trend of SH is decreasing in most of Iran and is only increasing on the northern and southern coast of the country. The highest increasing trend of the SH is observed on the southern coast of Iran in 1,000 hPa. The regression line fitting on the standardized time series of Iran's area average SH showed that the highest decreasing rate occurred in the first layer (1,000–850 hPa) and only the third layer (600–500 hPa) has had a significant increase of SH trend over Iran. Area average annual anomaly of the tropospheric cross sections indicates that the studied period is divided into two periods: a wet period (1979–1998) and a dry period (1999–2016).
Attribution analysis of actual and potential evapotranspiration changes based on the complementary relationship theory in the Huai River basin of eastern China
Authors: Chu Ronghao , Li Meng , Islam Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul , Fei Dunyue , Shen Shuanghe
Published: March 2019

Accurate terrestrial evapotranspiration (ET) estimation and understanding the causes of ET variation are essential for water resource management and irrigation planning. In this research, the complementary relationship (CR) between actual evapotranspiration (ETa) and potential evapotranspiration (ETp) was evaluated. An Advection–Aridity (AA) model was calibrated and validated using eddy covariance measurements. The spatiotemporal variations of ETa, ETp and associated meteorological variables were examined through Mann–Kendall (MK) testing and Theil–Sen's estimator, using daily weather data from 137 meteorological stations in Huai River basin (HRB) during 1961–2014. Moreover, the influences of meteorological factors on ETa and ETp were quantified by the differential equation method. The results indicate that CR theory is applicable in the HRB and the calibrated AA model can simulate the ETa well. ETa exhibited a significant increasing trend before 1990 and then decreased significantly. However, ETp decreased significantly before 1990 and then declined slightly. During 1961–1990, except for significant increasing relative humidity (RH), other meteorological variables exhibited decreasing trends. The aerodynamic component dominated ETa and ETp trends in general. The wind speed at 2‐m height (u2) dominated ETa trends except for summer and growing season and ETp trends except for summer, when the dominant factor is net radiation (R
n). During 1991–2014, mean temperature (T
a) and RH showed distinct increasing and decreasing trends, respectively, whereas significant decline in u2 palpably slowed. The absolute value of the radiative component was larger than that of the aerodynamic one. The dominant factor of ETa trends shifted from u2 to RH in spring and to R
n in autumn, winter and annual timescales. Moreover, the dominant factor of ETp trends changed from u2 to RH in spring, winter and annual timescales and to R
n in growing season and autumn. R
n always played a pivotal role in both ETa and ETp trends in summer.
Initial Institutional Experience With Cryoablation Therapy for Breast Fibroadenomas: Technique, Molecular Science, and Post‐Therapy Imaging Follow‐up
Authors: Sheth Monica , Lodhi Umairullah , Chen Brandon , Park Young , McElligott Suzanne
Published: March 2019

Cryoablation is a safe and effective nonsurgical treatment for breast fibroadenomas (FAs). The treatment response is inversely related to the tumor size, with lesions less than 2 cm showing an optimal response. Ultrasound (US) imaging follow‐up of the ablated tumor is recommended at 6‐month intervals for 2 years at our institution. Although a decrease in the size of the FA clinically and on US imaging is the expected treatment response, variations can be seen. Knowledge of typical US changes over time is imperative to prevent unnecessary rebiopsy or excision in patients who have undergone cryoablation. We will review the initial patient selection criteria, cryoablation technique, and US findings at regular follow‐up intervals after cryoablation of FAs through a series of cases treated at our institution.
A serial mediation model of effects of team innovation on new product development success: Revising the role of team strategic orientations
Authors: Amaya Rivas Adriana A. , Wu Wann‐Yih
Published: March 2019

Although team innovation is considered as a critical pillar for the success of new product development (NPD) projects, previous studies have not clearly differentiated the stages of team innovation from team creativity to team innovation implementation, but only paying more attention to the generation of new ideas. Therefore, this study examines the mechanism through which three forms of team strategic orientation (technology orientation, market orientation, and entrepreneurial orientation) simultaneously influence on NPD success. Using the resource‐based view, this study proposes a theoretical framework in which team creativity and team innovation implementation mediate team strategic orientations on NPD success. The findings of this study can provide a guide for project managers to exercise different strategies in different stages of innovation to promote the development of new products that permit to explore and to exploit knowledge and to promote organizational learning.
Hydroxyapatite cement cranioplasty for translabyrinthine surgery: A single institution experience
Authors: Luryi Alexander L. , Schutt Christopher A. , Michaelides Elias , Kveton John F.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To assess complication rates in hydroxyapatite cement (HAC) cranioplasty for translabyrinthine acoustic surgery compared with historical controls.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients undergoing de novo translabyrinthine surgery with HAC cranioplasty without concurrent adipose tissue graft or additional material between 2010 and 2017 at a tertiary otology center.

Results

Fifty‐two patients underwent HAC cranioplasty during the study period. The average length of follow‐up was 30.5 months. HAC cranioplasty was associated with acceptable rates of cerebrospinal fluid leak (3.8%), wound or intracranial infection (5.8%), need for unplanned revision surgery (9.6%), and all complications (15.3%). All complications occurred within 5 months of surgery. No delayed wound infections or implant extrusions occurred.

Conclusion

HAC cranioplasty has an acceptable complication profile for translabyrinthine surgery and is a viable alternative to abdominal fat grafting without associated donor site morbidity.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130:206–211, 2020
Relationship of soil fertility to biochemical properties under agricultural practices aimed at controlling land degradation
Authors: de Santiago Ana , Recena Ramiro , Perea‐Torres Francisco , Moreno María Teresa , Carmona Eusebio , Delgado Antonio
Published: March 2019

Conservation agriculture (CA) is an essential strategy to avoid agricultural land degradation. It affects nutrient availability to plants and soil biological activity. However, an integral view of the effects of CA on soil fertility and biological indicators has been rarely described. Here, we examined the long‐term effects of no‐till and residue mulching on chemical properties, biological functionality indicators (enzyme activity), and nutrient availability indices of soil, and also their potential relationships, in order to provide a comprehensive view of the effects of CA on soil quality improvement. To this end, we assessed the effects after 27 years of conventional tillage (CT) and no‐tillage (NT) on a vertisol. NT increased Fe and Mn bound to organic matter when compared with CT. P and K availability in the soil surface was greater under NT than under CT by effect of more marked fertilizer stratification, and in the case of P by a decreased precipitation rate of Ca phosphates ascribed to an increased soil organic matter (SOM). The availability indices for Fe, Mn, Cu, P, and B were correlated with some enzyme activities. Our results reveal a relationship of soil biological functionality indicators, which were higher under CA, to nutrient availability to plants. This was explained at least in part by changes in soil properties, in particular an increased SOM, affecting both biological properties and nutrient availability. Thus, enzyme activities can be considered effective indicators of change in soil fertility, that is, nutrient availability to plants, a crucial factor for soil quality and functioning.
Kocuria Bacterial Isolates from Radioactive Springs of Jáchymov spa (Joachimsthal) as Sources of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Řezanka Tomáš , Gharwalová Lucia , Nováková Gabriela , Kolouchová Irena , Uhlík Ondřej , Sigler Karel
Published: March 2019

Four bacterial isolates, which produced polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), were isolated from water samples of radioactive springs collected from Jáchymov spa. Jáchymov (Sankt Joachimsthal) is a city in northwestern Bohemia, where Marie and Pierre Curie isolated radium in 1898 from the mineral uraninite. To date, four springs (Agricola, Behounek, C1, and Curie) have been used for spa purposes, that is for the treatment of nervous and rheumatic disorders by constantly produced radioactive gas radon (222Rn) dissolved in the water. The radioactivity reaches 24 kBq/L. Using 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, all four isolates were identified as members of the genus Kocuria, with two isolates designated 208 and 401 affiliated with Kocuria kristinae, while isolates 101 and 301 most likely with K. rhizophila. The content of fatty acids in polar lipids was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and two PUFA, that is arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic, were identified. The position of double bonds was confirmed by GC–MS of 3‐pyridylcarbinol (formerly picolinyl) esters. We assume that all four isolates of Kocuria produce PUFA to increase the stability of cell membranes, which may be impaired by the reaction of the reactive oxygen species. These can arise, for example, because of α radiation during 222Rn decay.
Status and Trends of Marbled Grouper in the North-Central Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Campbell Matthew D. , Rademacher Kevin R. , Noble Brandi , Salisbury Joseph , Felts Paul , Moser John , Caillouet Ryan , Hendon Michael , Driggers William B.
Published: March 2019

Marbled Grouper Dermatolepis inermis were categorized as “near threatened” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in 1996, and the status of the species was set for review in 2018. Analysis used to support its global threatened status included basic parameters, such as numbers seen in a year and spatial maps of positive observations, but included no statistical approaches to interpret abundance trends. In an effort to improve the understanding of Marbled Grouper status and trends, we used the Southeast Area Monitoring and Assessment Program reef fish video survey time series in the northern Gulf of Mexico, USA, to estimate relative abundance, proportion of positive stations, and the impact of habitat variables on fish abundance. Marbled Grouper were consistently observed in low numbers on the Louisiana shelf-edge banks throughout the survey. Generalized linear mixed models using a negative binomial data distribution showed significant effects for the presence of reef and depth, while the percent coverage of rock was marginally significant. These results indicate that detection and abundance of Marbled Grouper are strongly associated with high rugosity and deep (60–100 m) reef tracts. Interpretation of annual trends was difficult due to high interannual variability, but the data appear to show no detectable trends. Given that the previous classification of near threatened was based primarily on the consistent but rare observation of the species in its preferred habitat on a global basis, and given that the annual indices produced for the northern Gulf of Mexico region were highly variable, we recommend that the current International Union for Conservation of Nature regional status be maintained. This study highlights the utility of optical surveys for collecting data on species that are rare or that are not observed using traditional fisheries sampling gears and also indicates the importance of synchronous collection of habitat information.
Single breath‐hold measurement of pulmonary gas exchange and diffusion in humans with hyperpolarized 129Xe MR
Authors: Xie Junshuai , Li Haidong , Zhang Huiting , Zhao Xiuchao , Shi Lei , Zhang Ming , Xiao Sa , Deng He , Wang Ke , Yang Hao , Sun Xianping , Wu Guangyao , Ye Chaohui , Zhou Xin
Published: March 2019

Pulmonary diseases usually result in changes of the blood‐gas exchange function in the early stages. Gas exchange across the respiratory membrane and gas diffusion in the alveoli can be quantified using hyperpolarized 129Xe MR via chemical shift saturation recovery (CSSR) and diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), respectively. Generally, CSSR and DWI data have been collected in separate breaths in humans. Unfortunately, the lung inflation level cannot be the exactly same in different breaths, which causes fluctuations in blood‐gas exchange and pulmonary microstructure. Here we combine CSSR and DWI obtained with compressed sensing, to evaluate the gas diffusion and exchange function within a single breath‐hold in humans. A new parameter, namely the perfusion factor of the respiratory membrane (SVRd/g), is proposed to evaluate the gas exchange function. Hyperpolarized 129Xe MR data are compared with pulmonary function tests and computed tomography examinations in healthy young, age‐matched control, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease human cohorts. SVRd/g decreases as the ventilation impairment and emphysema index increase. Our results indicate that the proposed method has the potential to detect the extent of lung parenchyma destruction caused by age and pulmonary diseases, and it would be useful in the early diagnosis of pulmonary diseases in clinical practice.
Sampling and multilevel coarsening algorithms for fast matrix approximations
Authors: Ubaru Shashanka , Saad Yousef
Published: March 2019

This paper addresses matrix approximation problems for matrices that are large, sparse, and/or representations of large graphs. To tackle these problems, we consider algorithms that are based primarily on coarsening techniques, possibly combined with random sampling. A multilevel coarsening technique is proposed, which utilizes a hypergraph associated with the data matrix and a graph coarsening strategy based on column matching. We consider a number of standard applications of this technique as well as a few new ones. Among standard applications, we first consider the problem of computing partial singular value decomposition, for which a combination of sampling and coarsening yields significantly improved singular value decomposition results relative to sampling alone. We also consider the column subset selection problem, a popular low‐rank approximation method used in data‐related applications, and show how multilevel coarsening can be adapted for this problem. Similarly, we consider the problem of graph sparsification and show how coarsening techniques can be employed to solve it. We also establish theoretical results that characterize the approximation error obtained and the quality of the dimension reduction achieved by a coarsening step, when a proper column matching strategy is employed. Numerical experiments illustrate the performances of the methods in a few applications.
Topology optimization of exterior acoustic‐structure interaction systems using the coupled FEM‐BEM method
Authors: Zhao Wenchang , Chen Leilei , Chen Haibo , Marburg Steffen
Published: March 2019

This paper presents an efficient topology optimization procedure for exterior acoustic‐structure interaction problems, in which the coupled systems are formulated by the boundary element method (BEM) and the finite element method (FEM). So far, the topology optimization based on the coupled FEM‐BEM still faces several issues needed to be addressed, especially the efficient design sensitivity analysis for the coupled systems. In this work, we contribute to these issues in two main aspects. Firstly, the adjoint variable method (AVM) formulations are derived for sensitivity analysis of arbitrary objective function, and the feedback coupling between the structural and acoustic domains are taken into consideration in the sensitivity analysis. Secondly, in addition to the application of fast multipole method (FMM) in the acoustic BEM response analysis, the FMM is now updated to adapt to the arising different multiplications in the AVM equations. These accelerations save considerable computing time and memory. Numerical tests show that the developed approach permits its application to large‐scale problems. Finally, some basic observations for the optimized designs are drawn from the numerical investigations.
The use of the concept of transition in different disciplines within health and social welfare: An integrative literature review
Authors: Lindmark Ulrika , Bülow Pia H. , Mårtensson Jan , Rönning Helén ,   A.D.U.L.T. Research Group
Published: March 2019

Aims

To continuing the quest of the concept of transition in nursing research and to explore how the concept of transition is used in occupational therapy, oral health and social work as well as in interdisciplinary studies in health and welfare, between 2003–2013.

Design

An integrative literature review.

Methods

PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, DOSS, SocIndex, Social Science Citation Index and AMED databases from 2003–2013 were used. Identification of 350 articles including the concept of transition in relation to disciplines included. Assessment of articles are in accordance to Meleis' typologies of transition by experts in each discipline. Chosen key factors were entered into Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS).

Results

Meleis' four typologies were found in all studied disciplines, except development in oral health. The health‐illness type was the most commonly explored, whereas in social work and in occupation therapy, situational transitions dominated.
Preparation of a novel phosphorus‐containing organosilicon and its effect on the flame retardant and smoke suppression of polyethylene terephthalate
Authors: Peng Yun , Xue Baoxia , Song Yinghao , Wang Jie , Niu Mei
Published: March 2019

A novel phosphorus‐containing silicone flame retardant (PDPSI) was prepared by Mannish reaction, and a series of PDPSI/PET composites were prepared by melt blending method. The nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), Fourier transformation infrared (FTIR), and the thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) results indicated that PDPSI showed network structure and owned good thermal stability, with the char residue of 62.2% at 800°C. The flame retardancy of PDPSI/PET composites was characterized by limiting oxygen index (LOI), vertical burning tests (UL‐94), and cone calorimeter (CCT). The results revealed that the addition amount of PDPSI was 5%, the LOI value of PDPSI/PET composites increased to 27.3%, and UL‐94 test passed V‐0 rating. When the PDPSI loading was 3%, PET composites showed excellent flame retardancy and smoke suppression, with a decrease in the peak heat release rate (PHRR) by 71.19% and the total smoke release (TSP) reduced from 14.4 to 11.1m2. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and FTIR results of char residue demonstrated that the flame‐retardant mechanism of PDPSI was solid phase flame retardant. PDPSI catalyzed the aromatization reaction of PET to promote the formation of a dense and continuous carbon layer, finally improving the flame retardancy and smoke suppression properties of PET.
Amphiphilic block poly(propylene carbonate)‐block‐allyloxypolyethyleneglycol copolymer based shell cross‐linked micelles for controlled release of drug
Authors: Niu Yongsheng , Li Hongchun
Published: March 2019

Amphiphilic block poly(propylene carbonate)‐block‐allyloxypolyethyleneglycol (PPC‐b‐APEG) copolymer was synthesized by the click chemistry, and its structure were characterized. PPC‐b‐APEG can self‐assemble into micelles without emulsifier in water. Shell cross‐linked micelles were obtained by the reaction of the allyloxy groups, which were exposed on the outer of the PPC‐b‐APEG micelles, and N‐vinylpyrrolidone (NVP). The morphology and size of the micelles before and after cross‐link reactions were characterized. The research result shows that the shell cross‐linking could improve the stability of micelles. The particle size of uncross‐linked micelle was about 800 nm. The size of cross‐linked micelles increased with increasing amount of cross‐linking degree. To better evaluate the release behavior of PPC‐b‐PEG copolymer, doxorubicin (DOX)‐loaded micelles were synthesized using DOX as the model drug. Results showed that the DOX releasing rate decreased with increasing of NVP. The shell cross‐linking do decrease the burst release behaviours of DOX and reduce the DOX release rate.
Atypical ductal hyperplasia is a multipotent precursor of breast carcinoma
Authors: Kader Tanjina , Hill Prue , Zethoven Magnus , Goode David L , Elder Kenneth , Thio Niko , Doyle Maria , Semple Timothy , Sufyan Wajiha , Byrne David J , Pang Jia‐Min B , Murugasu Anand , Miligy Islam M , Green Andrew R , Rakha Emad A , Fox Stephen B , Mann G Bruce , Campbell Ian G , Gorringe Kylie L
Published: March 2019

The current model for breast cancer progression proposes independent ‘low grade (LG)‐like’ and ‘high grade (HG)‐like’ pathways but lacks a known precursor to HG cancer. We applied low‐coverage whole‐genome sequencing to atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) with and without carcinoma to shed light on breast cancer progression. Fourteen out of twenty isolated ADH cases harboured at least one copy number alteration (CNA), but had fewer aberrations than LG or HG ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). ADH carried more HG‐like CNA than LG DCIS (e.g. 8q gain). Correspondingly, 64% (7/11) of ADH cases with synchronous HG carcinoma were clonally related, similar to LG carcinoma (67%, 6/9). This study represents a significant shift in our understanding of breast cancer progression, with ADH as a common precursor lesion to the independent ‘low grade‐like’ and ‘high grade‐like’ pathways. These data suggest that ADH can be a precursor of HG breast cancer and that LG and HG carcinomas can evolve from a similar ancestor lesion. We propose that although LG DCIS may be committed to a LG molecular pathway, ADH may remain multipotent, progressing to either LG or HG carcinoma. This multipotent nature suggests that some ADH cases could be more clinically significant than LG DCIS, requiring biomarkers for personalising management. Copyright © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Devil's in the details: Reports on reproducibility in pharmacoepidemiologic studies
Authors: Petrone Andrew B. , DuCott April , Gagne Joshua J. , Toh Sengwee , Maro Judith C.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Sentinel Initiative “modular programs” have been shown to replicate findings from conventional protocol‐driven, custom‐programmed studies. One such parallel assessment—dabigatran and warfarin and selected outcomes—produced concordant findings for three of four study outcomes. The effect estimates and confidence intervals for the fourth—acute myocardial infarction—had more variability as compared with other outcomes. This paper evaluates the potential sources of that variability that led to unexpected divergence in findings.

Methods

We systematically compared the two studies and evaluated programming differences and their potential impact using a different dataset that allowed more granular data access for investigation. We reviewed the output at each of five main processing steps common in both study programs: cohort identification, propensity score estimation, propensity score matching, patient follow‐up, and risk estimation.

Results

Our findings point to several design features that warrant greater investigator attention when performing observational database studies: (a) treatment of recorded events (eg, diagnoses, procedures, and dispensings) co‐occurring on the index date of study drug dispensing in cohort eligibility criteria and propensity score estimation and (b) construction of treatment episodes for study drugs of interest that have more complex dispensing patterns.

Conclusions

More precise and unambiguous operational definitions of all study parameters will increase transparency and reproducibility in observational database studies.