bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of feature tracking, fast‐SENC, and myocardial tagging for global and segmental left ventricular strain
Authors: Bucius Paulius , Erley Jennifer , Tanacli Radu , Zieschang Victoria , Giusca Sorin , Korosoglou Grigorious , Steen Henning , Stehning Christian , Pieske Burkert , Pieske‐Kraigher Elisabeth , Schuster Andreas , Lapinskas Tomas , Kelle Sebastian
Published: December 2019

Aims

A multitude of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) techniques are used for myocardial strain assessment; however, studies comparing them are limited. We sought to compare global longitudinal (GLS), circumferential (GCS), segmental longitudinal (SLS), and segmental circumferential (SCS) strain values, as well as reproducibility between CMR feature tracking (FT), tagging (TAG), and fast‐strain‐encoded (fast‐SENC) CMR techniques.

Methods and results

Eighteen subjects (11 healthy volunteers and seven patients with heart failure) underwent two CMR scans (1.5T, Philips) with identical parameters. Global and segmental strain values were measured using FT (Medis), TAG (Medviso), and fast‐SENC (Myocardial Solutions). Friedman's test, linear regression, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and Bland–Altman analyses were used to assess differences and correlation in measured GLS and GCS between the techniques. Two‐way mixed intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variance (COV), and Bland–Altman analysis were used for reproducibility assessment.

All techniques correlated closely for GLS (Pearson's r: 0.86–0.92) and GCS (Pearson's r: 0.85–0.94). Intra‐observer and inter‐observer reproducibility was excellent in all techniques for both GLS (ICC 0.92–0.99, CoV 2.6–10.1%) and GCS (ICC 0.89–0.99, CoV 4.3–10.1%). Inter‐study reproducibility was similar for all techniques for GLS (ICC 0.91–0.96, CoV 9.1–10.8%) and GCS (ICC 0.95–0.97, CoV 7.6–10.4%). Combined segmental intra‐observer reproducibility was good in all techniques for SLS (ICC 0.914–0.953, CoV 12.35–24.73%) and SCS (ICC 0.885–0.978, CoV 10.76–19.66%). Combined inter‐study SLS reproducibility was the worst in FT (ICC 0.329, CoV 42.99%), while fast‐SENC performed the best (ICC 0.844, CoV 21.92%). TAG had the best reproducibility for combined inter‐study SCS (ICC 0.902, CoV 19.08%), while FT performed the worst (ICC 0.766, CoV 32.35%). Bland–Altman analysis revealed considerable inter‐technique biases for GLS (FT vs. fast‐SENC 3.71%; FT vs. TAG 8.35%; and TAG vs. fast‐SENC 4.54%) and GCS (FT vs. fast‐SENC 2.15%; FT vs. TAG 6.92%; and TAG vs. fast‐SENC 2.15%). Limits of agreement for GLS ranged from ±3.1 (TAG vs. fast‐SENC) to ±4.85 (FT vs. TAG) for GLS and ±2.98 (TAG vs. fast‐SENC) to ±5.85 (FT vs. TAG) for GCS.

Conclusions

We found significant differences in measured GLS and GCS between FT, TAG, and fast‐SENC. Global strain reproducibility was excellent for all techniques. Acquisition‐based techniques had better reproducibility than FT for segmental strain.
A Highly Stable Luminescent Eu‐MOF Exhibiting Efficient Response to Nitrofuran Antibiotics through the Inner Filter Effect and Photoinduced Electron Transfer
Authors: Yang Han‐Wen , Xu Ping , Ding Bo , Liu Zheng‐Yu , Zhao Xiao‐Jun , Yang En‐Cui
Published: December 2019

A novel 4,8‐connected Eu‐MOF with paddle wheel‐shaped {Eu2(COO)4} subunits extended by 4‐connected BTCTB3– linkages is hydrothermally synthesized by incorporating with C3‐symmetric 3,3′,3′′‐[1,3,5‐benzenetriyltris(carbonylimino)]tris‐benzoate ligand (BTCTB), which exhibits high stability, good dispersion and intense red emission. Resulting significantly from the synergetic inner filter effect and photoinduced electron transfer, the framework shows rapid and efficient fluorescence decay towards nitrofuran antibiotics with strong quenching constants and low detection limits of (1.27 ± 0.03) × 104 m–1 and 0.67 ± 0.08 µm for nitrofurazone, (2.10 ± 0.03) × 104 m–1 and 0.60 ± 0.06 µm for nitrofurantoin as well as (1.72 ± 0.04) × 104 m–1 and 0.51 ± 0.06 µm for furazolidone. Furthermore, a RGB value‐based colorimetric response application loaded on the mobile device and personal computer platforms is developed, which can potentially fulfil portable and easy probing for nitrofuran antibiotics in water system.
Regioselective Alkylation of Pyridinium Riboses
Authors: Salahi Farbod , Wiest Olaf
Published: December 2019

The nucleophilic addition of alkyl, benzyl, and allyl organozinc reagents to protected pyridinium riboses proceeds under mild conditions and with yields of > 90 % in several cases and complete regioselectivity for the 4‐position.
Ablation of reactive astrocytes exacerbates disease pathology in a model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Katsouri Loukia , Birch Amy M. , Renziehausen Alexander W. J. , Zach Carolin , Aman Yahyah , Steeds Hannah , Bonsu Angela , Palmer Emily O. C. , Mirzaei Nazanin , Ries Miriam , Sastre Magdalena
Published: December 2019

The role of astrocytes in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains poorly understood. We assessed the consequences of ablating astrocytic proliferation in 9 months old double transgenic APP23/GFAP‐TK mice. Treatment of these mice with the antiviral agent ganciclovir conditionally ablates proliferating reactive astrocytes. The loss of proliferating astrocytes resulted in significantly increased levels of monomeric amyloid‐β (Aβ) in brain homogenates, associated with reduced enzymatic degradation and clearance mechanisms. In addition, our data revealed exacerbated memory deficits in mice lacking proliferating astrocytes concomitant with decreased levels of synaptic markers and higher expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Our data suggest that loss of reactive astrocytes in AD aggravates amyloid pathology and memory loss, possibly via disruption of amyloid clearance and enhanced neuroinflammation.
Induction chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy for N3 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Du Chengrun , Blanchard Pierre , Even Caroline , Boros Angela , Gorphe Philippe , Breuskin Ingrid , Baste‐Rotllan Neus , Nguyen France , Ruffier Amandine , Bidault François , Billard Camélia , Janot François , Mirghani Haitham , Temam Stephane , Tao Yungan
Published: December 2019

Background

The treatment outcomes for N3 HNSCC treated with induction chemotherapy (ICT) followed by definitive radiation were reported to clarify the role of ICT and potential prognostic factors.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 120 patients with N3 (≥6 cm) HNSCC, who were treated with ICT as initial treatment. Survival outcomes and potential prognostic factors were reported.

Results

The response rate to ICT was 68.3%. There was a statistically significant difference between responders and non‐responders in terms of 5‐year OS (35.1% vs 13.3%, P < .001) and PFS (29.4% vs 7.4%, P < .001). Good response to ICT (P < .001) and upfront neck dissection (UFND) before radiotherapy (P = .016) were factors predicting for better OS. However, UFND before radiotherapy was not associated with improved outcomes among responders.

Conclusions

This study suggests that ICT could be one treatment option for N3 HNSCC. Among responders to ICT, UFND before radiotherapy could be avoided.
Estimation of Differential Code Bias of IRNSS Satellites using Global Ionosphere Map
Authors: Lingwal Yogesh , Kumar Rajesh , Singh F. B. , Ramakrishna B.N.
Published: December 2019

IRNSS (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System) is an independent satellite based regional navigation system, developed by India, with an aim to provide accurate positioning and timing services to user in India as well as 1500 km away from its boundary. IRNSS is a constellation of seven satellites, three satellites are orbiting in a GEO (Geostationary orbit) and remaining four satellites are in GSO (Geosynchronous orbit).

IRNSS provides navigation services on two frequencies i.e. L5 (1176.45 ± 12 MHz) and S band (2492.028 ± 8.25 MHz). The measurements from dual frequency IRNSS/NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) receiver are affected by instrument bias of satellite and receiver. Differential Code Bias (DCB) is the hardware bias between two GNSS code at same or different frequency. DCB can't be ignored for both precise positioning as well as for precise TEC estimation. Currently there are limited numbers of IRNSS satellites, so it is difficult to build an independent Ionospheric model for the precise estimation of DCB of IRNSS satellites.

There are several Ionospheric Associated Analysis centers (IAAC), providing the DCB (Differential Code Bias) of different GNSS satellites (GPS, GLONASS etc.) along with the Global Ionospheric Map (GIM) on routine basis. Knowledge of DCB is currently unavailable for newly developed constellations like IRNSS, due to the limited number of satellites and monitoring stations. In this paper Global Ionospheric Map (GIM) published by IGS (International GNSS services) is used as a reference for the estimation of DCB of IRNSS satellites. More than 60 days' observation data of IRNSS Range integrity and monitoring station (IRIMS) were analysed and DCB of each day was computed with the stability of up‐to ∼1 ns for all IRNSS satellites in constellation.
Characterizing and decomposing classes of threshold, split, and bipartite graphs via 1‐Sperner hypergraphs
Authors: Boros Endre , Gurvich Vladimir , Milanič Martin
Published: December 2019

A hypergraph is said to be 1‐Sperner if for every two hyperedges the smallest of their two set differences is of size one. We present several applications of ‐Sperner hypergraphs to graphs. First, we consider several ways of associating hypergraphs to graphs, namely, vertex cover, clique, independent set, dominating set, and closed neighborhood hypergraphs. For each of them, we characterize graphs yielding ‐Sperner hypergraphs. These results give new characterizations of threshold and domishold graphs. Second, we apply a characterization of ‐Sperner hypergraphs to derive decomposition theorems for two classes of split graphs, a class of bipartite graphs, and a class of cobipartite graphs. These decomposition theorems, based on certain matrix partitions, lead to new classes of graphs of bounded clique‐width and new polynomially solvable cases of three basic domination problems: domination, total domination, and connected domination.
Effect of Liraglutide on Cardiovascular Function and Myocardial Tissue Characteristics in Type 2 Diabetes Patients of South Asian Descent Living in the Netherlands: A Double‐Blind, Randomized, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Authors: Paiman Elisabeth H.M. , van Eyk Huub J. , van Aalst Minke M.A. , Bizino Maurice B. , van der Geest Rob J. , Westenberg Jos J.M. , Geelhoed‐Duijvestijn Petronella H. , Kharagjitsingh Aan V. , Rensen Patrick C.N. , Smit Johannes W.A. , Jazet Ingrid M. , Lamb Hildo J.
Published: December 2019

Background

The glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist liraglutide may be beneficial in the regression of diabetic cardiomyopathy. South Asian ethnic groups in particular are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Purpose

To assess the effects of liraglutide on left ventricular (LV) diastolic and systolic function in South Asian type 2 diabetes patients.

Study Type

Prospective, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial.

Population

Forty‐seven type 2 diabetes patients of South Asian ancestry living in the Netherlands, with or without ischemic heart disease, who were randomly assigned to 26‐week treatment with liraglutide (1.8 mg/day) or placebo.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T (balanced steady‐state free precession cine MRI, 2D and 4D velocity‐encoded MRI, 1H‐MRS, T1 mapping).

Assessment

Primary endpoints were changes in LV diastolic function (early deceleration peak [Edec], ratio of early and late peak filling rate [E/A], estimated LV filling pressure [E/Ea]) and LV systolic function (ejection fraction). Secondary endpoints were changes in aortic stiffness (aortic pulse wave velocity [PWV]), myocardial steatosis (myocardial triglyceride content), and diffuse fibrosis (extracellular volume [ECV]).

Statistical Tests

Data were analyzed according to intention‐to‐treat. Between‐group differences were reported as mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) and were assessed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Results

Liraglutide (n = 22) compared with placebo (n = 25) did not change Edec (+0.2 mL/s2 × 10‐3 (–0.3;0.6)), E/A (–0.09 (–0.23;0.05)), E/Ea (+0.1 (–1.2;1.3)) and ejection fraction (0% (–3;2)), but decreased stroke volume (–9 mL (–14;–5)) and increased heart rate (+10 bpm (4;15)). Aortic PWV (+0.5 m/s (–0.6;1.6)), myocardial triglyceride content (+0.21% (–0.09;0.51)), and ECV (–0.2% (–1.4;1.0)) were unaltered.

Data Conclusion

Liraglutide did not affect LV diastolic and systolic function, aortic stiffness, myocardial triglyceride content, or extracellular volume in Dutch South Asian type 2 diabetes patients with or without coronary artery disease.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 4

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:1679–1688.
Locomotor training with adjuvant testosterone preserves cancellous bone and promotes muscle plasticity in male rats after severe spinal cord injury
Authors: Yarrow Joshua F. , Kok Hui Jean , Phillips Ean G. , Conover Christine F. , Lee Jimmy , Bassett Taylor E. , Buckley Kinley H. , Reynolds Michael C. , Wnek Russell D. , Otzel Dana M. , Chen Cong , Jiron Jessica M. , Graham Zachary A. , Cardozo Christopher , Vandenborne Krista , Bose Prodip K. , Aguirre Jose Ignacio , Borst Stephen E. , Ye Fan
Published: December 2019

Loading and testosterone may influence musculoskeletal recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Our objectives were to determine (a) the acute effects of bodyweight‐supported treadmill training (TM) on hindlimb cancellous bone microstructure and muscle mass in adult rats after severe contusion SCI and (b) whether longer‐term TM with adjuvant testosterone enanthate (TE) delivers musculoskeletal benefit. In Study 1, TM (40 min/day, 5 days/week, beginning 1 week postsurgery) did not prevent SCI‐induced hindlimb cancellous bone loss after 3 weeks. In Study 2, TM did not attenuate SCI‐induced plantar flexor muscles atrophy nor improve locomotor recovery after 4 weeks. In our main study, SCI produced extensive distal femur and proximal tibia cancellous bone deficits, a deleterious slow‐to‐fast fiber‐type transition in soleus, lower muscle fiber cross‐sectional area (fCSA), impaired muscle force production, and levator ani/bulbocavernosus (LABC) muscle atrophy after 8 weeks. TE alone (7.0 mg/week) suppressed bone resorption, attenuated cancellous bone loss, constrained the soleus fiber‐type transition, and prevented LABC atrophy. In comparison, TE+TM concomitantly suppressed bone resorption and stimulated bone formation after SCI, produced near‐complete cancellous bone preservation, prevented the soleus fiber‐type transition, attenuated soleus fCSA atrophy, maintained soleus force production, and increased LABC mass. 75% of SCI+TE+TM animals recovered voluntary over‐ground hindlimb stepping, while no SCI and only 20% of SCI+TE animals regained stepping ability. Positive associations between testosterone and locomotor function suggest that TE influenced locomotor recovery. In conclusion, short‐term TM alone did not improve bone, muscle, or locomotor recovery in adult rats after severe SCI, while longer‐term TE+TM provided more comprehensive musculoskeletal benefit than TE alone.
What proportion of unplanned re‐presentations to an emergency department are medication related and preventable?
Authors: Whitaker Ann S. , Cottrell W. Neil
Published: December 2019

Background

Australian data suggest that one‐fifth of emergency department (ED) presentations are re‐presentations within 28 days of discharge, with early re‐presentations common. The contribution of medication misadventure to re‐presentations has been poorly defined to date, but has been reported previously as medication‐related readmission rates of 23%, of which 90% are considered preventable.

Aims

This study identified and categorised medication‐related 28‐day ED re‐presentations after discharge, associated medication‐related problems (MRPs) and differences in demographics between medication‐related and ‐unrelated ED re‐presentations.

Methods

A retrospective medical record review was conducted for every third adult 28‐day ED re‐presentation between 1 July and 31 December 2016. Re‐presentations were examined for potential medication‐related causes. The MRPs identified were categorised using causality, contribution and preventability criteria.

Results

Of 631 eligible re‐presentations, 196 were sampled. Re‐presentations were potentially medication related in 41 (21%) cases; in 24 (59%) re‐presentations, preventable MRPs were considered the main cause of re‐presentation. Early medication‐related re‐presentations were common: 49% occurred within 7 days of discharge, and 20% on Day 1. Patients re‐presenting with an MRP were, on average, 10.3 years older and prescribed 3.4 more medications on the index discharge than those re‐presenting with a non‐MRP. Cardiovascular medications (n = 14) were most commonly implicated in MRPs, with toxicity or adverse reaction (n = 16) and undertreated (n = 15) the most common MRP categories.

Conclusions

One‐fifth of the 28‐day ED re‐presentations observed were considered potentially medication related, with 59% of these associated with MRPs considered preventable. MRPs most frequently involved cardiovascular medications, adverse reactions and undertreatment. Early individualised pharmaceutical review after discharge may help reduce the MRPs observed.
A clinical‐radiomic model for improved prognostication of surgical candidates with colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Shur Joshua , Orton Matthew , Connor Ashton , Fischer Sandra , Moulton Carol‐Anne , Gallinger Steven , Koh Dow‐Mu , Jhaveri Kartik S.
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

Colorectal cancer with liver metastases is potentially curable with surgical resection however clinical prognostic factors can insufficiently stratify patients. This study aims to assess whether radiomic features are prognostic and can inform clinical decision making.

Methods

This single‐site retrospective study included 102 patients who underwent colorectal liver metastases resection with preoperative computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadoxetic acid (EOB) and clinical covariates. A lasso‐regularized multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was applied to 114 features (10 clinical, 104 radiomic) to determine association with disease‐free survival (DFS). A prognostic index was derived using the significant Cox regression coefficients and their corresponding input features and a threshold was determined to classify patients into high‐ and low‐risk groups, and DFS compared using log‐rank tests.

Results

Four covariates were significantly associated with DFS; bilobar disease (hazard ratio [HR]= 1.56;P = .0043), complete pathological response (HR= 0.67;P = .025), minimum pixel value (HR= 1.66;P = .00016), and small area emphasis (HR= 0.62;P = .0013) from the EOB‐MRI data. Radiomic CT features were not prognostic. The prognostic index strongly stratified high‐ and low‐risk prognostic groups (HR = 0.31;P = .00068).

Conclusion

Radiomic MRI features provided meaningful prognostic information above clinical covariates alone. This merits further validation for potential clinical implementation to inform management.
Gastric cancer molecular classification and adjuvant therapy: Is there a different benefit according to the subtype?
Authors: Ramos Marcus F. K. P. , Pereira Marina A. , Amorim Larissa C. , de Mello Evandro S. , Faraj Sheila F. , Ribeiro Ulysses , Hoff Paulo M. G. , Cecconello Ivan , de Castria Tiago B.
Published: December 2019

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) has been defined in distinct molecular subtypes with different therapeutic implications. However, its clinical significance and prognosis regarding standard chemotherapy (CMT) remains unclear. This study aimed to analyze the impact of perioperative or adjuvant treatment among subtypes of GC.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated all stage II/III patients with GC who underwent a curative gastrectomy. Based on immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization techniques, GC was classified into five subtypes: Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) positive, microsatellite instability (MSI), e‐cadherin aberrant, p53‐aberrant, and p53‐normal.

Results

Among the 178 CG included, 111 patients received CMT and 67 were treated with surgery alone. Survival analysis showed that p53‐aberrant GC treated with CMT had better disease‐free survival (DFS) compared with surgery alone (P = .001).There was no significant difference in DFS between patients who received CMT and those with surgery alone for EBV, MSI, E‐cadherin, and p53‐normal GC. An improvement in overall survival was observed only for E‐cadherin (P = .001) and p53‐aberrant (P < .001) patients who received CMT.

Conclusions

CMT showed different impact on the survival of CG according to the molecular subtype. No survival benefit was observed for EBV and MSI groups who received CMT. GC with p53‐aberrant had a significant benefit in survival with standard therapy.
ICD‐11 Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in the United States: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Cloitre Marylène , Hyland Philip , Bisson Jonathan I. , Brewin Chris R. , Roberts Neil P. , Karatzias Thanos , Shevlin Mark
Published: December 2019

The primary aim of this study was to provide an assessment of the current prevalence rates of International Classification of Diseases (11th rev.) posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD (CPTSD) among the adult population of the United States and to identify characteristics and correlates associated with each disorder. A total of 7.2% of the sample met criteria for either PTSD or CPTSD, and the prevalence rates were 3.4% for PTSD and 3.8% for CPTSD. Women were more likely than men to meet criteria for both PTSD and CPTSD. Cumulative adulthood trauma was associated with both PTSD and CPTSD; however, cumulative childhood trauma was more strongly associated with CPTSD than PTSD. Among traumatic stressors occurring in childhood, sexual and physical abuse by caregivers were identified as events associated with risk for CPTSD, whereas sexual assault by noncaregivers and abduction were risk factors for PTSD. Adverse childhood events were associated with both PTSD and CPTSD, and equally so. Individuals with CPTSD reported substantially higher psychiatric burden and lower levels of psychological well‐being compared to those with PTSD and those with neither diagnosis.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Severity and Insomnia‐Related Sleep Disturbances: Longitudinal Associations in a Large, Gender‐Balanced Cohort of Combat‐Exposed Veterans
Authors: Rosen Raymond C. , Cikesh Bryanna , Fang Shona , Trachtenberg Felicia L. , Seal Karen H. , Magnavita Ashley M. , Bovin Michelle J. , Green Jonathan D. , Bliwise Donald L. , Marx Brian P. , Keane Terence M.
Published: December 2019

Few studies have investigated the range and severity of insomnia‐related sleep complaints among veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the temporal association between insomnia and PTSD severity has yet to be examined. To examine these associations, a large, gender‐balanced cohort of veterans (N = 1,649) of the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts participated in longitudinal assessments of PTSD and insomnia‐related symptoms over a period of 2.5 years following enrollment (range: 2–4 years). Data were obtained from multiple sources, including interviews, self‐report assessments, and electronic medical record data. Three‐fourths (74.0%) of veterans with PTSD diagnoses at Time 1 (T1) reported insomnia‐related sleep difficulties on at least half the nights during the past 30 days, and one‐third of participants had received a prescription for a sedative‐hypnotic drug in the past year. Veterans without PTSD had fewer sleep problems overall, although the prevalence of sleep problems was high among all study participants. In longitudinal, cross‐lagged panel models, the frequency of sleep problems at T1 independently predicted increases in PTSD severity at Time 2 (T2), B = 0.27, p < .001, after controlling for gender and relevant comorbidities. Conversely, T1 PTSD severity was associated with increasing sleep complaints at T2 but to a lesser degree, B = 0.04, p < .001. Moderately high rates of sedative‐hypnotic use were seen in veterans with PTSD, with more frequent use in women compared to men (40.4% vs. 35.0%). Sleep complaints were highly prevalent overall and highlight the need for increased clinical focus on this area.
Polytraumatization, Mental Health, and Delinquency Among Adolescent Gang Members
Authors: Nydegger Liesl A. , Quinn Katherine , Walsh Jennifer L. , Pacella‐LaBarbara Maria L. , Dickson‐Gomez Julia
Published: December 2019

Adolescent gang members are at high risk for polytraumatization (i.e., experiencing two or more types of trauma), which may contribute to behavioral problems, such as delinquency or drug distribution, and mental health symptoms, such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. The present study examined the associations between polytraumatization and these behavioral and mental health outcomes. We hypothesized that increased polytraumatization would lead to increased (b) mental health symptoms, (b) delinquency, and (c) drug distribution. Participants included 441 adolescent gang members (57.8% male; age range: 14–19 years) from a midsized city in the Midwestern United States. A path model was used to test hypotheses. A total of 88.0% of participants experienced polytraumatization, such as physical and sexual assault, involvement in accidents, or witnessing a death or injury. Polytraumatization was uniquely and positively associated with depressive and PTSD symptoms, delinquency, and drug distribution, βs = .25–.50, ps < .001, explaining an additional 5.9%–22.5% of the variance in these outcomes beyond covariates. Untreated traumatic exposure among adolescent gang members may subsequently lead to poor behavioral and mental health outcomes. These results may inform prevention and intervention efforts focused on mental health and social justice among a high‐risk adolescent population.
The Incidence of Laryngotracheal Stenosis in Neonates With a History of Ventilator‐Associated Pneumonia
Authors: Lowery Anne Sun , Gelbard Alexander , Wootten Christopher
Published: December 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Neonatal patients requiring prolonged intubation are susceptible to both infection and laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS). This study investigated the effect of ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP) on the development of LTS in neonates.

Study Design

Retrospective case–control study.

Methods

The incidence of LTS in neonates with VAP was compared with the incidence of LTS in matched intubated controls without VAP. Patients were treated at a tertiary‐care medical center from 2004 to 2014. Eligible patient records were assessed for the development of LTS. Demographics, medical comorbidities, infection characteristics, and treatment variables were compared using unpaired t test or χ2 test. Statistical significance was set a priori at P < .05.

Results

When comparing the VAP patients with matched non‐VAP controls, we found no significant differences in the incidence of LTS (VAP vs. non‐VAP, 8.3% vs. 6.7%; P = .73). In subgroup analysis of the VAP cohort, LTS and non‐LTS patients demonstrated similar VAP organisms on broncho‐alveolar lavage (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Escherichia coli, methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Enterobacter). Additionally, within the VAP cohort, LTS and non‐LTS patients showed similar gestational age (LTS vs. non‐LTS, 31.3 days vs. 28.1 days; P = .22), birth weight (LTS vs. non‐LTS, 1.6 kg vs. 1.2 kg; P = .33), and similar intubation duration (LTS vs. non‐LTS, 37.8 days vs. 27.5 days; P = .52).

Conclusions

In this neonatal cohort, VAP was not associated with an increased incidence of LTS. Given severity of the burden of LTS on the healthcare system, multi‐institutional longitudinal investigation into contributing risk factors for neonatal LTS is warranted.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 130:2252–2255, 2020
Informed consent within a learning health system: A scoping review
Authors: Cumyn Annabelle , Barton Adrien , Dault Roxanne , Cloutier Anne‐Marie , Jalbert Rosalie , Ethier Jean‐François
Published: December 2019

Introduction

A major consideration for the implementation of a learning health system (LHS) is consent from participants to the use of their data for research purposes. The main objective of this paper was to identify in the literature which types of consent have been proposed for participation in research observational activities in a LHS. We were particularly interested in understanding which approaches were seen as most feasible and acceptable and in which context, in order to inform the development of a Quebec‐based LHS.

Methods

Using a scoping review methodology, we searched scientific and legal databases as well as the gray literature using specific terms. Full‐text articles were reviewed independently by two authors on the basis of the following concepts: (a) LHS and (b) approach to consent. The selected papers were imported in NVivo software for analysis in the light of a conceptual framework that distinguishes various, largely independent dimensions of consent.

Results

A total of 93 publications were analysed for this review. Several studies reach opposing conclusions concerning the best approach to consent within a LHS. However, in the light of the conceptual framework we developed, we found that many of these results are distorted by the conflation between various characteristics of consent. Thus, when these characteristics are distinguished, the results mainly suggest the prime importance of the communication process, by contrast to the scope of consent or the kind of action required by participants (opt‐in/opt‐out). We identified two models of consent that were especially relevant for our purpose: metaconsent and dynamic consent.

Conclusions

Our review shows the importance of distinguishing carefully the various features of the consent process. It also suggests that the metaconsent model is a valuable model within a LHS, as it addresses many of the issues raised with regards to feasibility and acceptability. We propose to complement this model by adding the modalities of the information process to the dimensions relevant in the metaconsent process.
Effect of Photocrosslinking of D‐A Thiophene Copolymers on the Performance of Single‐Material Solar Cells
Authors: Lanzi Massimiliano , Salatelli Elisabetta , Marinelli Martina , Pierini Filippo
Published: December 2019

Side‐chain C60‐fullerene functionalized alkylthiophene copolymers with different regioregularity and fullerene content are successfully synthesized using a simple and straightforward post‐polymerization functionalization procedure based on a Grignard coupling reaction. The products are employed as single materials in photoactive layers of organic photovoltaic solar cells. The use of double‐cable polymers allows an enhanced control on the nanomorphology of the active blend, reducing the phase‐segregation phenomena as well as the macroscale separation between the electron acceptor and donor components. With the insertion of a thin layer of gold nanoparticles between buffer and active layer of the cells, a conversion efficiency of 5.68% is obtained. Moreover, an increased stability over time is achieved when the copolymers are photocrosslinked immediately after the annealing procedure, leading to acceptable efficiencies even after 80 h of accelerated ageing, a key feature for widespread applicability of the prepared devices.
Boycott them! No, boycott this! Do choice overload and small‐agent rationalization inhibit the signing of anti‐consumption petitions?
Authors: Yuksel Ulku , Thai Nguyen T. , Lee Michael S. W.
Published: December 2019

The Internet and social media have increased the number of organizations and individuals asking consumers to sign petitions against transgressing brands. This raises a question as to whether such increases in requests to sign a petition to support a boycott positively or negatively impact on consumer willingness to enact anti‐consumption. Via experiments, this study investigates the effect that choice overload has on consumers signing a petition in support of a boycott call. The findings establish that individuals who need to make a choice from numerous boycott calls (i.e., large choice‐sets) are less likely to sign a petition to support a boycott than individuals making a similar choice from a small number of boycott calls (i.e., small choice‐sets). The study further introduces a mediator that explains this effect. Compared with individuals facing a small choice‐set, those facing numerous options are more likely to experience the small‐agent rationalization, and thus, are less likely to sign the petition to support a boycott. The small‐agent rationalization (SAR) relates to one's acceptance of inequity in the world as well as perceptions of their own powerlessness. The study establishes the role of choice overload in boycott literature and empirically tests SAR as the process mechanism. Theoretical, practical, and policy implications are discussed.
Cerebellar Deep Brain Stimulation for Acquired Hemidystonia
Authors: Brown Ethan G. , Bledsoe Ian O. , Luthra Nijee S. , Miocinovic Svjetlana , Starr Philip A. , Ostrem Jill L.
Published: December 2019

Background

The cerebellum's role in dystonia is increasingly recognized. Dystonia can be a disabling and refractory condition; deep brain stimulation can help many patients, but it is traditionally less effective in acquired dystonia. New surgical targets would be instrumental in providing treatment options and understanding dystonia further.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of deep brain stimulation of the cerebellum in acquired dystonia.

Methods

We report our management of a 37‐year‐old woman with severe left arm and leg dystonia, a complication of an ischemic stroke in childhood. She had already had 2 thalamotomies with only transient benefit. These procedures, in addition to her initial stroke that had damaged the basal ganglia, left traditional deep brain stimulation targets unavailable.

Results

After implantation of bilateral deep cerebellar nuclei, dystonia improved with a 40% reduction in severity on scales and subjective reports of improved posturing, gait, and pain. This improvement has been maintained for almost 2 years after implantation.

Conclusion

Cerebellar stimulation has potential for therapeutic benefit in acquired dystonia and should be further explored.
Ultracontractivity and Gaussian bounds for evolution families associated with nonautonomous forms
Authors: Laasri Hafida , Mugnolo Delio
Published: December 2019

We develop a variational approach in order to study qualitative properties of nonautonomous parabolic equations. Based on the method of product integrals, we discuss invariance properties and ultracontractivity of evolution families in Hilbert space. Our main results give sufficient conditions for the heat kernel of the evolution family to satisfy Gaussian‐type bounds. Along the way, we study examples of nonautonomous equations on graphs, metric graphs, and domains.
Dynamical analysis of age‐structured pertussis model with covert infection
Authors: Tian Xuan , Wang Wendi
Published: December 2019

An age‐structured pertussis model with covert infection is proposed to understand the effect of covert infection on the recurrence of pertussis. It is found that vaccination only for young children does not have a decisive effect on whooping cough control. It is shown that although the vaccine coverage rate is relatively high, the model has a backward bifurcation for a larger covert infection rate. In addition, sufficient conditions for the disease‐free steady state to be globally asymptotically stable are obtained.
Vitamin D Deficiency Induces Insulin Resistance and Re‐Supplementation Attenuates Hepatic Glucose Output via the PI3K‐AKT‐FOXO1 Mediated Pathway
Authors: Mutt Shivaprakash Jagalur , Raza Ghulam Shere , Mäkinen Markus J , Keinänen‐Kiukaanniemi Sirkka , Järvelin Marjo‐Riitta , Herzig Karl‐Heinz
Published: December 2019

Background

Pandemic vitamin D deficiency is associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Vitamin D supplementation has been reported to have improved glucose homeostasis. However, its mechanism to improve insulin sensitivity remains unclear.

Methods and results

Male C57BL/6J mice are fed with/without vitamin D control (CD) or Western (WD) diets for 15 weeks. The vitamin‐D‐deficient lean (CDVDD) and obese (WDVDD) mice are further subdivided into two groups. One group is re‐supplemented with vitamin D for 6 weeks and hepatic insulin signaling is examined. Both CD and WD mice with vitamin D deficiency developed insulin resistance. Vitamin D supplementation in CDVDD mice significantly improved insulin sensitivity, hepatic inflammation, and antioxidative capacity. The hepatic insulin signals like pAKT, pFOXO1, and pGSK3β are increased and the downstream Pepck, G6pase, and Pgc1α are reduced. Furthermore, the lipogenic genes Srebp1c, Acc, and Fasn are decreased, indicating that hepatic lipid accumulation is inhibited.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that vitamin D deficiency induces insulin resistance. Its supplementation has significant beneficial effects on pathophysiological mechanisms in type 2 diabetes but only in lean and not in the obese phenotype. The increased subacute inflammation and insulin resistance in obesity cannot be significantly alleviated by vitamin D supplementation. This needs to be taken into consideration in the design of new clinical trials.
Dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI of brown and beige adipose tissues
Authors: Yaligar Jadegoud , Verma Sanjay Kumar , Gopalan Venkatesh , Anantharaj Rengaraj , Thu Le Giang Thi , Kaur Kavita , Mallilankaraman Karthik , Leow MK , Velan SS
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The vascular blood flow in brown adipose tissue (BAT) is important for handling triglyceride clearance, increased blood flow and oxygenation. We used dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE)‐MRI and fat fraction (FF) imaging for investigating vascular perfusion kinetics in brown and beige adipose tissues with cold exposure or treatment with β3‐adrenergic agonist.

Methods

FF imaging and DCE‐MRI using gadolinium‐diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid were performed in interscapular BAT (iBAT) and beige tissues using male Wister rats (n = 38). Imaging was performed at thermoneutral condition and with either cold exposure, treatment with pharmacological agent CL‐316,243, or saline. DCE‐MRI and FF data were co‐registered to enhance the understanding of metabolic activity.

Results

Uptake of contrast agent in activated iBAT and beige tissues were significantly (P < .05) higher than nonactivated iBAT. The Ktrans and kep increased significantly in iBAT and beige tissues after treatment with either cold exposure or β3‐adrenergic agonist. The FF decreased in activated iBAT and beige tissues. The Ktrans and FF from iBAT and beige tissues were inversely correlated (r = 0.97; r = 0.94). Significant increase in vascular endothelial growth factor expression and Ktrans in activated iBAT and beige tissues were in agreement with the increased vasculature and vascular perfusion kinetics. The iBAT and beige tissues were validated by measuring molecular markers.

Conclusion

Increased Ktrans and decreased FF in iBAT and beige tissues were in agreement with the vascular perfusion kinetics facilitating the clearance of free fatty acids. The methodology can be extended for the screening of browning agents.
Framing contests in global NGO networks: How controversies enable and challenge collaboration and action
Authors: Pesqueira Luli , Glasbergen Pieter , Leroy Pieter
Published: December 2019

In multistakeholder sustainability initiatives, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) need not only to negotiate with actors from other sectors, but also with other NGOs. Taking a framing perspective, this study examines how NGOs engage in framing contests because of their collaborative attitude toward the private sector. Through an analysis of Oxfam's participation in the Shrimp Aquaculture Dialogues, the paper examines the interplay between NGOs that propose and oppose certification as a viable strategy for ensuring sustainability in the farmed shrimp sector. The results show that controversies among NGO groups related prognostic framing (i.e., regarding the proposed solution to a problem) are characterized by specific ontological and normative attributes. The paper offers NGOs strategies for dealing with such controversies and shows that, depending on the nature of the controversy, engaging in framing contests might enlarge or constrain the roles that an NGO is able to play in a multistakeholder setting, particularly, when it comes to preserving its independence while securing interdependence with others.
Optimal control of HIV treatment and immunotherapy combination with state and control delays
Authors: Silva Cristiana J. , Maurer Helmut
Published: December 2019

In this paper, we propose and analyze an optimal control problem where human immunodeficiency virus treatment and immunotherapy are described by two control functions that are subject to time delays representing pharmacological and absorption delays, respectively. The goal is to propose effective optimal control solutions for the combination of human immunodeficiency virus treatment and immunotherapy, ensuring a functional behavior of the immune system. The incubation period is mathematically represented by a time delay in the virus load, and the local asymptotic and Hopf bifurcation analysis of the CTL‐equilibrium point of the uncontrolled delayed system is studied. We obtain optimal controls of bang‐singular type both for the nondelayed and delayed optimal control problem with and without state constraints. We study boundary arcs of state constraints and junction properties of the control and adjoint variables at entry and exit points of boundary arcs. Moreover, we derive an explicit formula of the multiplier associated with the state constraint.
The mediating effect of Internet gaming disorder's symptoms on loneliness and aggression among undergraduate students and working adults in Malaysia
Authors: T'ng Soo Ting , Ho Khee Hoong , Sim Da En , Yu Cher Hoe , Wong Poh Yin
Published: December 2019

Insufficient attention has been given to the integration of the mediating effect of Internet gaming disorder (IGD) symptoms on loneliness and four components of aggression—physical aggression, verbal aggression, anger, and hostility—in the Malaysian context. In the present study, 410 participants with (a) at least 1 year of Internet gaming experience and (b) between ages 20– to 39 years were recruited using the probability proportional to size sampling method. Participants were undergraduate students and working adults. Self‐reported questionnaires (the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale, University of California, Los Angeles Loneliness Scale, and the Buss‐Perry Aggression Questionnaire) were used. The present study found that loneliness positively predicted four components of aggression (i.e., anger, hostility, physical aggression, and verbal aggression) and symptoms of IGD. Relationships between loneliness and the four components of aggression were partially mediated by IGD symptoms. The present study enriches and consolidates existing empirical evidence, particularly in the Malaysian context. If the mediating effect is not emphasized, it may lead to spurious conclusions that can significantly diminish the effectiveness of interventions that are meant to manage aggression.
The use of natural language processing to identify vaccine‐related anaphylaxis at five health care systems in the Vaccine Safety Datalink
Authors: Yu Wei , Zheng Chengyi , Xie Fagen , Chen Wansu , Mercado Cheryl , Sy Lina S. , Qian Lei , Glenn Sungching , Tseng Hung F. , Lee Gina , Duffy Jonathan , McNeil Michael M. , Daley Matthew F. , Crane Brad , McLean Huong Q. , Jackson Lisa A. , Jacobsen Steven J.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The objective was to develop a natural language processing (NLP) algorithm to identify vaccine‐related anaphylaxis from plain‐text clinical notes, and to implement the algorithm at five health care systems in the Vaccine Safety Datalink.

Methods

The NLP algorithm was developed using an internal NLP tool and training dataset of 311 potential anaphylaxis cases from Kaiser Permanente Southern California (KPSC). We applied the algorithm to the notes of another 731 potential cases (423 from KPSC; 308 from other sites) with relevant codes (ICD‐9‐CM diagnosis codes for anaphylaxis, vaccine adverse reactions, and allergic reactions; Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes for epinephrine administration). NLP results were compared against a reference standard of chart reviewed and adjudicated cases. The algorithm was then separately applied to the notes of 6 427 359 KPSC vaccination visits (9 402 194 vaccine doses) without relevant codes.

Results

At KPSC, NLP identified 12 of 16 true vaccine‐related cases and achieved a sensitivity of 75.0%, specificity of 98.5%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 66.7%, and negative predictive value of 99.0% when applied to notes of patients with relevant diagnosis codes. NLP did not identify the five true cases at other sites. When NLP was applied to the notes of KPSC patients without relevant codes, it captured eight additional true cases confirmed by chart review and adjudication.

Conclusions

The current study demonstrated the potential to apply rule‐based NLP algorithms to clinical notes to identify anaphylaxis cases. Increasing the size of training data, including clinical notes from all participating study sites in the training data, and preprocessing the clinical notes to handle special characters could improve the performance of the NLP algorithms. We recommend adding an NLP process followed by manual chart review in future vaccine safety studies to improve sensitivity and efficiency.
Forging of Hierarchical Multiscale Capabilities for Simulation of Energetic Materials
Authors: Barnes Brian C. , Leiter Kenneth W. , Larentzos James P. , Brennan John K.
Published: December 2019

We present new capabilities for investigation of microstructure in energetic material response for both explicit large‐scale and multiscale simulations. We demonstrate the computational capabilities by studying the effect of porosity on the reactive shock response of a coarse‐grain (CG) model of the energetic material cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (RDX), the non‐reactive equation of state for a porous representative volume element (RVE) of CG RDX, and utilization of available supercomputing resources for speculative sampling to accelerate hierarchical multiscale simulations. Small amounts of porosity (up to 4 %) are shown to have significant effect on the initiation of reactive CG RDX using large‐scale reactive dissipative particle dynamics simulations. Non‐reactive RVEs are shown to undergo a porosity‐dependent pore collapse at hydrostatic conditions, and an existing automation framework is shown to be easily modified for the incorporation of microstructure while retaining reliable convergence properties. A novel predictive sampling method based on use of kernel density estimators is shown to effectively accelerate time‐to‐solution in a multiscale simulation, scaling with free CPU cores, while making no assumptions about the underlying physics for the data being analyzed. These multidisciplinary studies of distinct yet connected problems combine to provide methodological insights for high‐fidelity modeling of reactive systems with microstructure.