bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioequivalence and Evaluation Parameters Based on the Pharmacodynamics of Miglitol in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Yan Juan , Li Xiao‐Min , Zhang Yan‐Xin , Xu Su‐Mei , Liu Wan‐Li , Guo Jie , Hu Xiao‐Lei , Zou Ting , Xu Yu‐Ying , Xu Ping‐Sheng
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to explore the bioequivalence of miglitol based on pharmacodynamic properties. The study was performed as a single‐dose, randomized, open‐label, 3‐period, 3‐way crossover trial over a 7‐day washout period. Forty‐eight subjects were randomly assigned into 3 groups: (1) miglitol test formulation/sucrose coadministration, (2) miglitol reference formulation/sucrose coadministration, and (3) sucrose administration alone. Serum glucose concentrations were measured by the hexokinase detection method. The peak serum glucose concentration (Cmax) and the area under the serum glucose concentration‐time curve through 4 hours (AUC0‐4h) were used as the main pharmacodynamic parameters to evaluate bioequivalence. The 90% confidence intervals for the geometric mean ratios of Cmax and AUC0‐4h were 94.81%‐101.07% and 98.82%‐100.72%, respectively, which were all within the bioequivalence range of 80.00%‐125.00%. The test and reference formulations of miglitol were pharmacodynamically bioequivalent during the trial.
Large‐scale evaluation of ion mobility spectrometry for the rapid detection of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists in infused papers in prisons
Authors: Norman Caitlyn , McKirdy Brian , Walker Gillian , Dugard Pat , NicDaéid Niamh , McKenzie Craig
Published: October 2020

Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs), colloquially known as “spice,” are commonly used in prisons and enter establishments via the mail in the form of infused papers. Many prisons use benchtop ion mobility spectroscopy (IMS) instruments to screen mail and seized materials for the presence of SCRAs and other controlled substances. The selectivity and sensitivity of Rapiscan Itemiser® 3E and Itemiser® 4DN Ion Trap Mobility Spectroscopy™ (ITMS™) systems were evaluated using 21 SCRA reference standards. Some differences in the SCRA reduced mobility (K0) values were observed between this study and those reported previously using IMS detection systems, particularly for cumyl and quinolinyl SCRAs (e.g., 5F‐PB‐22, Cumyl‐4CN‐BINACA, and 5F‐Cumyl‐PEGACLONE), although this was found to have little effect at an operational level. Operational reliability of the systems was evaluated by analyzing 392 paper and card samples with known drug content. ITMS™ system results (e.g., detect or nondetect) were in agreement with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis in up to 95% of samples tested. Overall, this study found the ITMS™ systems tested to be effective instruments when deployed for the rapid detection of SCRA‐infused papers. Used effectively and with up‐to‐date substance libraries, they will help reduce the supply of SCRAs into prisons and identify emerging threats as they arise. Several emerging SCRAs (5F‐MPP‐PICA, 5F‐EMB‐PICA, and 4F‐MDMB‐BICA) were detected for the first time in Scottish prisons between May and August 2020 as a result of routine monitoring, and all were detected using the ITMS™ systems tested.
Using power, mental model, and learning to analyze the evolution of water governance in Bangalore
Authors: Nath Sanchayan , van Laerhoven Frank
Published: October 2020

Over the last few decades processes of water governance have been characterized by a gradual evolution from “governance by unitary state” to “governance by partnerships.” However, there is limited understanding of how such shifts take place. The case of Bangalore's lakes is an interesting example of such a transition. In the past Bangalore's lakes have been governed by unitary state actors. But over time, this changed. Today a multiplicity of governance processes is associated with the lakes: state‐dominated unitary‐systems coexist with partnerships between state and nonstate actors. Therefore, in order to understand how governance by unitary state evolves into governance by partnerships, this article answers the following research question: “How did the governance of some of Bangalore's lakes evolve from a state‐dominated, publicly governed model to one in which local communities have a much larger say?” Using data collected via semi‐structured interviews and secondary research, this article argues that while processes of urbanization may indeed have contributed to changing the city's landscape, in more recent years, socio‐political processes have contributed to governance transition: actor interactions and changing power dynamics interacted with processes of learning to bring about changes in mental models leading to change. This finding assumes significance in view of the fact there is limited research which demonstrates how these socio‐scientific processes interact with each other for bringing about governance transition.
Multiple input single output aerial base station‐assisted networks: Joint 3D beam‐forming, aerial base station assignment, 3D placement, and radio resource allocation
Authors: Azizi Arman , Mokari Nader
Published: October 2020

In this article, we propose a novel method according to which joint aerial base station (ABS) assignment, three‐dimensional placement (3DP), three‐dimensional beam‐forming (3DB), and radio resource allocation are considered for multiple input single output (MISO) ABS‐based networks with orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) technology. We aim to maximize the instantaneous data rate subject to some practical constraints. In light of the fact that our optimization problem is mixed‐integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) with high computational complexity, we propose a low complex and practical approach. Therefore, we resort to an alternate method by which the main optimization problem decomposes into three subproblems. Then we solve the resulting subproblems via linear approximation method, matching theory, and mesh adaptive direct search (MADS) algorithm. In order to shed light on our proposed approach, we decompose the proposed scenario into some cases with fewer optimization variables and compare them with our main problem. Our proposed approach boosts the instantaneous data rate compared to the decomposed cases with fewer optimization variables. Via simulation, we study the effect of various parameters like numbers of users, ABSs, and maximum transmission powers on the network performance. Finally, we analyze the network performance for suburban and urban environments considering various number of ABSs.
Granger causality of bivariate stationary curve time series
Authors: Shang Han Lin , Ji Kaiying , Beyaztas Ufuk
Published: October 2020

We study causality between bivariate curve time series using the Granger causality generalized measures of correlation. With this measure, we can investigate which curve time series Granger‐causes the other; in turn, it helps determine the predictability of any two curve time series. Illustrated by a climatology example, we find that the sea surface temperature Granger‐causes sea‐level atmospheric pressure. Motivated by a portfolio management application in finance, we single out those stocks that lead or lag behind Dow Jones industrial averages. Given a close relationship between S&P 500 index and crude oil price, we determine the leading and lagging variables.
Zr0.92Y0.08O1.92‐La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3–δ Asymmetric Dual‐phase Oxygen Transport Membrane for Simultaneously Methane Partial Oxidation and Water Splitting▴
Authors: Shi J. , Zhu X. , Li K. , Wei Y. , Wang H.
Published: October 2020

Oxygen transport membrane (OTM) allows O2− to transport from oxygen donation side to partial oxidation side without the contact of oxidant and fuel, providing an efficient pathway for the fuel conversion. OTM with high oxygen permeability are crucial for OTM‐involved processes, and the asymmetric dual‐phase OTM is one of the promising materials with desirable oxygen permeability and stability. Herein, we fabricated a Zr0.92Y0.08O1.92‐La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (YSZ‐LSCF) asymmetric dual‐phase OTM for the methane partial oxidation and water splitting. It exhibits highest oxygen permeation flux of 0.151 mL cm−2 min−1 at 900 °C among all membranes due to the fast oxygen diffusion kinetic. In water splitting experiments driven by different reducing atmospheres (CO and CH4), all the membranes are reactive. The YSZ‐LSCF asymmetric dual‐phase membrane reveals a favorable performance for the partial oxidation of methane to syngas with a H2/CO molar ratio close to 2 and simultaneously water splitting to produce hydrogen. The membrane maintains high stability during the experiments, and the clear dual phases, grain boundaries and porous structure are visible. Owing to its desired oxygen permeability and stability, YSZ‐LSCF asymmetric dual‐phase membrane developed in the present study provides an efficient process for the methane partial oxidation and water splitting.
Distinct influence of parental occupation on cortical thickness and surface area in children and adolescents: Relation to self‐esteem
Authors: Khundrakpam Budhachandra , Choudhury Suparna , Vainik Uku , Al‐Sharif Noor , Bhutani Neha , Jeon Seun , Gold Ian , Evans Alan
Published: October 2020

Studies of socioeconomic disparities have largely focused on correlating brain measures with either composite measure of socioeconomic status (SES), or its components—family income or parental education, giving little attention to the component of parental occupation. Emerging evidence suggests that parental occupation may be an important and neglected indicator of childhood and adolescent SES compared to absolute measures of material resources or academic attainment because, while related, it may more precisely capture position in social hierarchy and related health outcomes. On the other hand, although cortical thickness and surface area are brain measures with distinct genetic and developmental origins, large‐scale neuroimaging studies investigating regional differences in interaction of the composite measure of SES or its components with cortical thickness and surface area are missing. We set out to fill this gap, focusing specifically on the role of parental occupation on cortical thickness and surface area by analyzing magnetic resonance imaging scans from 704 healthy individuals (age = 3–21 years). We observed spatially distributed patterns of (parental occupation × age2) interaction with cortical thickness (localized at the left caudal middle frontal, the left inferior parietal and the right superior parietal) and surface area (localized at the left orbitofrontal cortex), indicating independent sources of variability. Further, with decreased cortical thickness, children from families with lower parental occupation exhibited lower self‐esteem. Our findings demonstrate distinct influence of parental occupation on cortical thickness and surface area in children and adolescents, potentially reflecting different neurobiological mechanisms by which parental occupation may impact brain development.
Disruption of gray matter morphological networks in patients with paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia
Authors: Li Xiuli , Lei Du , Niu Running , Li Lei , Suo Xueling , Li Wenbin , Yang Chen , Yang Tianhua , Ren Jiechuan , Pinaya Walter H. L. , Zhou Dong , Kemp Graham J. , Gong Qiyong
Published: October 2020

This study explores the topological properties of brain gray matter (GM) networks in patients with paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia (PKD) and asks whether GM network features have potential diagnostic value. We used 3D T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging and graph theoretical approaches to investigate the topological organization of GM morphological networks in 87 PKD patients and 115 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. We applied a support vector machine to GM morphological network matrices to classify PKD patients versus healthy controls. Compared with the HC group, the GM morphological networks of PKD patients showed significant abnormalities at the global level, including an increase in characteristic path length (Lp) and decreases in local efficiency (Eloc), clustering coefficient (Cp), normalized clustering coefficient (γ), and small‐worldness (σ). The decrease in Cp was significantly correlated with disease duration and age of onset. The GM morphological networks of PKD patients also showed significant changes in nodal topological characteristics, mainly in the basal ganglia‐thalamus circuitry, default‐mode network and central executive network. Finally, we used the GM morphological network matrices to classify individuals as PKD patients versus healthy controls, achieving 87.8% accuracy. Overall, this study demonstrated disruption of GM morphological networks in PKD, which might extend our understanding of the pathophysiology of PKD; further, GM morphological network matrices might have the potential to serve as network neuroimaging biomarkers for the diagnosis of PKD.
Optimal lake‐marsh pattern determination in lake‐marsh systems based on the eco‐hydrological processes management
Authors: Bi Wuxia , Weng Baisha , Yan Denghua , Li Meng , Yu Zhilei , Wang Lin , Wang Hao
Published: October 2020

The major hydrological factors in lake‐marsh systems are water level (depth), water surface area, and water volume. The key index for determining the lake‐marsh pattern is water level, which leads to the variation of lake‐marsh patterns under natural hydrological alternations. In addition, the vegetation structure also affects the lake‐marsh pattern. With socioeconomic development and climate change, the ‘land use’ and ‘water use’ competitions appear more seriously between a lake‐marsh system and its surrounding socioeconomic system, also inside the lake‐marsh system. The possible optimal lake‐marsh pattern could solve the contradictions mentioned above. As few studies focus on this issue, this study proposed an optimal lake‐marsh pattern determination method with eco‐hydrological management on relieving the land use and water use competitions. The optimal lake‐marsh pattern determination method considers the protection objects (water depth demands), water supply (precipitation, surface water, and groundwater), and water demand (especially evapotranspiration) in the system at annual and monthly scales. Calculation and analysis were performed for the optimal pattern of the Wolonghu Wetlands as an example. The results mainly showed that the lake‐marsh pattern of the Wolonghu Wetlands cannot be achieved on meeting both the maximum ecological services values and minimum water shortage amount under present natural condition. With artificial regulation measures, the possible optimal annual lake‐marsh patterns can be obtained based on both ecological and hydrological objectives, with the area ratio of lake and marsh in the range of 0.650:0.350 and 0.726:0.274, the corresponding water level of lake body was of 86.85 to 87.0 m. This study could provide references for the Wolonghu Wetlands management, also for similar lake‐marsh systems and other ecological systems.
Effectiveness of post‐fire salvage logging stream buffer management for hillslope erosion in theU.S.Inland Northwest Mountains
Authors: Robichaud Peter R. , Bone Edwin D. , Lewis Sarah A. , Brooks Erin S. , Brown Robert E.
Published: October 2020

Active wildfire seasons in the western U.S. warrant the evaluation of post‐fire forest management strategies. Ground‐based salvage logging is often used to recover economic loss of burned timber. In unburned forests, ground‐based logging often follows best management practices by leaving undisturbed areas near streams called stream buffers. However, the effectiveness of these buffers has not been tested in a post‐wildfire setting. This experiment tested buffer width effectiveness with a novel field‐simulated rill experiment using sediment‐laden runoff (25 g/L) released over 40 min at evenly timed flow rates (50, 100 and 150 L/min) to measure surface runoff travel length and sediment concentration under unburned and high and low soil burn severity conditions at 2‐, 10‐ and 22‐month post‐fire. High severity areas 2‐month post‐fire had rill lengths of up to 100 m. Rill length significantly decreased over time as vegetation regrowth provided ground cover. Sediment concentration and sediment dropout rate also varied significantly by soil burn severity. Sediment concentrations were 19 g/L for the highest flow 2‐month post‐fire and reduced to 6.9–14 g/L 10‐month post‐fire due to abundant vegetation recovery. The amount of sediment dropping out of the flow consistently increased over the study period with the low burn severity rate of 1.15 g L−1m−1approaching the unburned rate of 1.29 g L−1m−1by 2‐year post‐fire. These results suggest that an often‐used standard, 15 m buffer, was sufficient to contain surface runoff and reduce sediment concentration on unburned sites, however buffers on high burn severity sites need to be eight times greater (120 m) immediately after wildfire and four times greater (60 m) 1‐year post‐fire. Low burn severity areas 1‐year post‐fire may need to be only twice the width of an unburned buffer (30 m), and 2‐year post‐fire these could return to unburned widths.
Investor types' trading around theshort‐termreversal pattern
Authors: Onishchenko Olena , Ülkü Numan
Published: October 2020

Using exact and complete Korean data of investor trading, we provide an anatomy of investor types' trading throughout the short‐horizon overshooting‐and‐reversal pattern in stock returns. We document two forms of non‐optimal trading behaviour associated with the pattern: First, institutional investors' chasing of return shocks at the overshooting point, particularly in the large‐cap segment. Second, individual investors' buying of winner stocks in the small‐cap segment, consistent with an attention‐driven speculative buying bias.
Revisiting the finance‐growth nexus: A socioeconomic approach
Authors: Agiropoulos Charalampos , Polemis Michael L. , Siopsis Michael , Karkalakos Sotiris
Published: October 2020

Although financial development is recognized as a vital determinant of countries' economic growth path, many empirical studies fail to further isolate the role of socioeconomic indicators on accelerating growth. This study attempts to fill this gap by examining the statistical significance and the behaviour of several socioeconomic indicators on economic growth. We apply parametric (System GMM estimators) and semi‐parametric techniques along the lines of Baltagi and Li. Annals of Economics and Finance, 2002, 3, 103–116 on a panel data set of 19 Eurozone countries over the period 1995–2017. We test for non‐linear effects on economic growth for three banking indicators (domestic credit, non‐performing loans, and banking capitalization). In contrast to the related literature, our findings provide sufficient evidence of non‐linear relationships between several aspects of financial development and economic growth. Our results survive robustness checks implying significant policy implications for policymakers and regulators in their effort of balancing banking development with a resurgence in economic growth within the EU periphery.
Chlorogenic acid induces 4T1 breast cancer tumor's apoptosis via p53, Bax, Bcl‐2, and caspase‐3 signaling pathways in BALB/c mice
Authors: Changizi Zahra , Moslehi Azam , Rohani Ali Haeri , Eidi Akram
Published: October 2020

Despite all the new treatments, metastatic breast cancer (BC) causes many deaths. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a polyphenol compound with various pharmacological traits, such as anticancer properties. Targeting apoptotic death pathways has been propounded as the most effective therapeutic method in various cancers. In the current study, apoptotic agents such as p53, Bax, Bcl‐2, and caspase‐3 have been investigated. The experimental groups included saline, BC, CGA, protective (PR), and treatment (TM) groups. First, 4T1 mouse BC was established and then the effects of treatment with CGA were investigated through measurement of tumor weight and volume, metastatic nodules, liver biochemical tests, hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining, and real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) in experimental groups. The findings showed that CGA reduced tumor weight and volume in the PR group (P < .05) and in the TM group (P < .001). Surprisingly, it eliminated the tumors in the TM group. Metastatic nodules in the PR and TM groups were significantly reduced as compared with the BC group (P < .001). The evaluation by H&E staining showed cell apoptosis in both the PR and TM groups. The results of real‐time RT‐PCR showed that CGA therapy increased the expression ratio of Bax/Bcl‐2 (P < .001 and P < .05, respectively) and the expression of p53 (P < .001 and P < .05, respectively) and caspase‐3 genes (P < .01) in the PR and TM groups. The IHC data regarding the Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio confirmed the other results (P < .001). The findings demonstrate that CGA plays a significant role in the induction of apoptosis and the treatment of 4T1 BC tumors in BALB/c mice.
ProteinUnet—An efficient alternative to SPIDER3‐single for sequence‐based prediction of protein secondary structures
Authors: Kotowski Krzysztof , Smolarczyk Tomasz , Roterman‐Konieczna Irena , Stapor Katarzyna
Published: October 2020

Predicting protein function and structure from sequence remains an unsolved problem in bioinformatics. The best performing methods rely heavily on evolutionary information from multiple sequence alignments, which means their accuracy deteriorates for sequences with a few homologs, and given the increasing sequence database sizes requires long computation times. Here, a single‐sequence‐based prediction method is presented, called ProteinUnet, leveraging an U‐Net convolutional network architecture. It is compared to SPIDER3‐Single model, based on long short‐term memory‐bidirectional recurrent neural networks architecture. Both methods achieve similar results for prediction of secondary structures (both three‐ and eight‐state), half‐sphere exposure, and contact number, but ProteinUnet has two times fewer parameters, 17 times shorter inference time, and can be trained 11 times faster. Moreover, ProteinUnet tends to be better for short sequences and residues with a low number of local contacts. Additionally, the method of loss weighting is presented as an effective way of increasing accuracy for rare secondary structures.
Enticing applications of near‐infrared phosphors: Review and future perspectives
Authors: De Guzman Gabriel Nicolo A. , Hu Shu Fen , Liu Ru Shi
Published: October 2020

Near‐infrared (NIR) phosphors have gained a substantial amount of attention in the past few years simply due to their numerous applications. Recent publications have reported interesting findings regarding the fundamentals of phosphors. However, the unclear application of these phosphors limits their potential. This mini review aims to provide insights for researchers regarding the potential applications of NIR phosphors and their perspectives for further development of NIR phosphor technology.
Dysregulation of vitamin D synthesis pathway genes in colorectal cancer: A case‐control study
Authors: Sadeghi Hossein , Kamaliyan Zeeba , Mohseni Roohollah , Sahebi Unes , Nazemalhosseini‐Mojarad Ehsan , Aghaei Naser , Zali Mohammad Reza , Asadzadeh Aghdaei Hamid , Mirfakhraie Reza , Moshiri Arfa
Published: October 2020

Background

The cytochromes P450 are a superfamily of enzymes that control the synthesis of the biologically active form of vitamin D, 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3. These enzymes contribute to the formation of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3, which starts with a 25‐hydroxylation by CYP2R1 and CYP27A1 and a subsequent 1α‐hydroxylation via CYP27B1.

Methods

By using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), we analyzed the expression ratio of CYP2R1, CYP27A1 and CYP27B1 genes within the vitamin D metabolic pathway in a total of 75 colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues compared to the adjacent tissues. Furthermore, we evaluated the association of CYP27B1 rs4646536 and CYP2R1 rs12794714 and rs10766196 polymorphisms with CRC risk in a total of 490 subjects, including 245 CRC patients and 245 non‐cancer controls. The genotyping was performed using tetra‐primer amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction (TP‐ARMS–PCR) method.

Results

The results indicated 2.3 and 2.7 upregulation of CYP2R1 and CYP27B1 genes in colorectal cancer tissues compared to the adjacent tissues, respectively. Rs12794714 AG genotype increased the risk of CRC (P = .03). Furthermore, a significant association was observed under the dominant inheritance model (P = .039).

Conclusion

CYP2R1 and CYP27B1 genes were over‐expressed in CRC samples compared to the adjacent control tissues. Furthermore, CYP2R1 rs12794714 variant was associated with the risk of CRC in the studied samples. CYP2R1 rs10766196 and CYP27B1 rs4646536 are not responsible for CYP2R1 and CYP27B1 genes expression alteration, respectively, but CYP2R1 rs12794714 polymorphism may be the reason of CYP2R1 upregulation and increased the risk of CRC.
A Review and Conceptual Framework for Understanding Personalized Matching Effects in Persuasion
Authors: Teeny Jacob D. , Siev Joseph J. , Briñol Pablo , Petty Richard E.
Published: October 2020

One of the most reliable and impactful methods for enhancing a persuasive appeal is to match an aspect of the proposal (i.e., its content, source, or the setting in which it is delivered) to an aspect of the consumer receiving it. This personalized matching in persuasion (also called tailoring, targeting, customizing, or personalizing) comprises a robust and growing literature. In the present review, we describe different types of persuasive matches, the primary characteristics of people who are targeted, and the key psychological mechanisms underlying the impact of matching. Importantly, although most research on personalized matching has concluded that matching is good for persuasion, we also describe and explain instances where it has produced negative (i.e., “backfire”) effects. That is, more than just the conclusion “matching is good” that many researchers have drawn, we analyze when and why it is good and when and why it can be ineffective—insight that can benefit marketers and consumers alike in understanding how personally matched appeals can impact attitudes and ultimately behavior.
Risk factors for bile leakage: Latest analysis of 10 102 hepatectomies for hepatocellular carcinoma from the Japanese national clinical database
Authors: Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Miyata Hiroaki , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Kitagawa Yuko , Yamaue Hiroki , Yamamoto Masakazu , Baba Hideo
Published: October 2020

Background/Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for bile leakage in hepatic resections without biliary reconstructions using the large Japanese national clinical database (NCD).

Methods

A total of 10 102 patients who had undergone hepatic resection involving more than one segment without biliary reconstructions for hepatocellular carcinoma during 2015‐2017 were enrolled. Risk factors for bile leakage, with special reference to the type of hepatic resection, were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Bile leakage occurred in 726 patients (7.2%). Risk factors for bile leakage were as follows: male sex (odds ratio [OR] 1.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04‐1.58), diabetes mellitus (+) (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01‐1.39), hemoglobin <10 g/dL (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.02‐1.93), albumin <3.5 g/dL (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.03‐1.63), central bisectionectomy (OR 3.8, 95% CI 2.81‐5.13), left trisectionectomy (OR 3.6, 95% CI 2.10‐6.15), right anterior sectionectomy (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.58‐2.72), and S5 or S8 segmentectomy (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.00‐1.77).

Conclusion

Central bisectionectomy, left trisectionectomy, and right anterior sectionectomy are high‐risk types of hepatic resection for bile leakage.
Assessment of learning curve and oncologic feasibility of robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy: A propensity score‐based comparison with open approach
Authors: Kim Hyeyeon , Park Seo Young , Park Yejong , Kwon Jaewoo , Lee Woohyung , Song Ki Byung , Hwang Dae Wook , Kim Song Cheol , Lee Jae Hoon
Published: October 2020

Background

Though robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy(R‐PD) is gradually adopted, learning curve and its feasibility is still controversial. We analyzed our first 70 R‐PD cases, comparing surgical outcomes and feasibility to those of open pancreaticoduodenectomy (O‐PD).

Methods

Medical records of 70 patients of R‐PD and 269 patients of O‐PD between 2015 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Cumulative sum analysis was used to determine learning curve. Surgical outcomes were compared between early(1‐35) and late cases(36‐70). Additional analyses with O‐PD using propensity score‐matching were done.

Results

Learning curve of R‐PD completed after 30 cases. Shorter operative time, lower estimated blood loss, and shorter length of stay were noted in later cases. Complication rate tended to decrease over time. In comparison with O‐PD after matching, R‐PD showed longer operation time(414.5 minutes vs 244.7 minutes; P < .001), with no differences in estimated blood loss, or length of stay. While overall complication rate was higher in R‐PD(45.5% vs 21.8%; P = .010), no statistically significant difference was observed in major complication rates(23.6% vs 10.9%; P = .084). R0 rate was equivalent.

Conclusion

Surgical performance of R‐PD improved over time. Learning curve of R‐PD completed after 30 cases. R‐PD is a promising modality, based on comparison of perioperative and oncologic feasibilities to those of O‐PD.
Predictors of pancreatic fistula healing time after distal pancreatectomy
Authors: Andrianello Stefano , Marchegiani Giovanni , Bannone Elisa , Vacca Piero , Esposito Alessandro , Casetti Luca , Salvia Roberto , Bassi Claudio
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) is common after distal pancreatectomy (DP). Whilst extensive investigation into potential predictors has been carried out, there is little evidence regarding POPF healing time.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of all consecutive DPs performed at the Department of General and Pancreatic Surgery, University of Verona Hospital Trust, from 2015 to 2019. Perioperative variables were analyzed identifying possible predictors of POPF healing time defined as days between surgery and last drain removal due to POPF.

Results

A total of 496 patients were included. POPF rate was 28.2% and median POPF healing time was 30 days (95% CI 28‐31). Independent predictors of POPF were body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.073, 95% CI 1.010‐1.147, p = 0.040), operative time (OR 95% CI 1.002–1.009, P = .003), and postoperative acute pancreatitis (OR 3.793, 95% CI, 1.852–7.767, P < .001). Independent predictors of POPF healing time were female sex (HR 1.323, 95% CI 1.093–1.998, P = .042), preoperative pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (HR 2.319, 95% CI 1.195–4.498, P = .013), ASA score 3 (HR 0.278, 95% CI 0.119–0.646, P = .003), pancreatic transection with ultrasonic dissector (HR 0.605, 95% CI 0.404–0.907, P = .015), and positive drain cultures (HR 0.635, 95% CI 0.443–0.910, P = .013).

Conclusion

POPF healing after DP is a slow process since only half of patients recover within 30 days of surgery. A longer healing time can be predicted early in the postoperative period with significant implications in therapeutic choices.
Surgical outcomes of 118 complex laparoscopic liver resections: a single‐ center experience
Authors: Hasegawa Yasushi , Nitta Hiroyuki , Takahara Takeshi , Katagiri Hirokatsu , Kanno Shoji , Umemura Akira , Akiyama Yuji , Iwaya Takeshi , Otsuka Koki , Sasaki Akira
Published: October 2020

Background

Indications for laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) are continuously expanding. The Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery defines highly difficult hepatectomy as a procedure involving one or more sections (except for left lateral sectionectomy) or anatomical segmentectomy. This study aimed to assess the outcomes of complex LLR procedures and compare their technical difficulties, about which only a little is known to date.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of the operative outcomes of 118 consecutive patients who underwent pure laparoscopic complex hepatectomy. The surgical outcomes, including operative times, blood loss amounts, and postoperative morbidity rates, were compared among complex LLR procedures.

Results

The overall median operative time was 280 minutes, and the median intraoperative blood loss was 86 mL. Two patients required conversion to open laparotomy (1.7%). The postoperative major morbidity rate was 11.0% Posterosuperior segmentectomy, right hemihepatectomy, and anterior sectionectomy required the longest operative times. Anterior and posterior sectionectomy resulted in the highest blood loss, and right hemihepatectomy and anterior sectionectomy resulted in the most complications.

Conclusions

The surgical difficulties associated with complex LLR procedures vary. It is critical to recognize the specific risks and cautionary points to ensure patient safety and provide proper systemic training to surgeons.
Novel bisbenzopyronopyran derivatives: photochemical synthesis and their in‐vitro antimicrobial studies
Authors: Nisa Shehneela , Yusuf Mohamad
Published: October 2020

The present research work describes the productive synthesis of novel bisbenzopyronopyran derivatives 4(a‐h) and 5(a‐h) via the photocyclization reactions of bischromones 3(a‐h) under the inert conditions. The latter compounds have been realized efficiently through the O‐alkylation reactions of the 3‐hydroxychromone 2 with suitable dihalogenated aliphatic/aromatic/heteroaromatic reagents in the presence of dry acetone/anhydrous K2CO3/Bu4N+I− (PTC). The cyclization reaction of chalcone 1 under the Algar‐Flynn‐Oyamada reaction conditions (KOH/H2O2) could results in the formation of compound 2 in the good yield. The structural scaffolds of the newly prepared bischromones and resultant bisbenzopyronopyrans have been certified from the meticulous analysis of their various spectroscopic parameters such as UV‐Vis, IR, 1H/13C‐NMR, and ESI‐MS. It was found that o/m/p‐xylene and pyridine‐linked final symmetrical bistetracycles exhibited higher antimicrobial potencies as compared to alkyl chain‐linked cyclized products. The bischromones 3(a‐h) could be able to endow modest level of antimicrobial behavior.
Development of an automated radiotherapy dose accumulation workflow for locally advanced high‐risk prostate cancer – A technical report
Authors: Ong Ashley , Knight Kellie , Panettieri Vanessa , Dimmock Matthew , Tuan Jeffrey Kit Loong , Tan Hong Qi , Master Zubin , Wright Caroline
Published: October 2020

An automated dose accumulation and contour propagation workflow using daily cone beam computed tomography (CBCTs) images for prostate cases that require pelvic lymph nodes irradiation (PLNs) was developed. This workflow was constructed using MIM® software with the intention to provide accurate dose transformations for plans with two different isocentres, whereby two sequential treatment phases were prescribed. The pre‐processing steps for data extractions from treatment plans, CBCTs, determination of couch shift information and management of missing CBCTs are described. To ensure that the imported translational couch shifts were in the correct orientation and readable in MIM, phantom commissioning was performed. For dose transformation, rigid registration with corrected setup shifts and scaled fractional dose was performed for pCT to daily CBCTs, which were then deformed onto CBCT1. Fractional dose summation resulted in the final accumulated dose for the patient allowing differences in dosimetry between the planned and accumulated dose to be analysed. Contour propagations of the prostate, bladder and rectum were performed within the same workflow. Transformed contours were then deformed onto daily CBCTs to generate trending reports for analysis, including Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC) and Mean Distance to Agreement (MDA). Results obtained from phantom commissioning (DSC = 0.96, MDA = 0.89 mm) and geometrical analysis of the propagated contours for twenty patients; prostate (DSC: 0.9 ± 0.0, MDA: 1.0 ± 0.3 mm), rectum (DSC: 0.8 ± 0.1, mm, MDA: 1.7 ± 0.6 mm) and bladder (DSC: 0.8 ± 0.1, MDA: 2.8 ± 1.0 mm) were within clinically accepted tolerances for both DSC (>0.8) and MDA (< 0.3 mm). The developed workflow is being performed on a larger patient cohort for predictive model building, with the goal of correlating observed toxicity with the actual accumulated dose received by the patient.
The difference in mortality between adult patients with laboratory documented influenza A and B, a single centre retrospective observational study
Authors: Mabayoje Diana A. , Cutino‐Moguel Teresa , Haigh John , Wilks Mark , Welch Catherine A. , Melzer Mark
Published: October 2020

Background

Seasonal influenza is an annual occurrence that leads to large community outbreaks and increased hospitalization. A number of studies have suggested that influenza A (FLUAV) is associated with increased rates of hospitalization and mortality compared with influenza B (FLUBV). This study compared demographic and clinical variables in patients diagnosed with FLUAV or FLUBV during the 2017–2018 UK Influenza season.

Methods

Patient demographic and clinical information were obtained by accessing medical records of patients testing FLUAV or FLUBV positive using the Cepheid GXP. We used the χ2 test to compare variables in patients with laboratory‐confirmed FLUAV and FLUBV.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐seven adult patients had confirmed Influenza, 71 (55.9%) had FLUAV, and 56 (44.1%) FLUBV. There was no significant difference between severity at presentation, admission to HDU/ITU or median length of stay. The overall mortality was 6 (4.5%) and 9 (7.1%) at 7 and 30 days, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in 7‐day mortality between patients with FLUAV and FLUBV, 1 (1.4%) versus 5 (8.9%), respectively, p = .047) although this became nonsignificant at 30 days.

Conclusions

With the exception of mortality, we did not observe significant differences between patients with FLUAV and FLUBV. Seven‐day mortality in patients with FLUBV was significantly higher with FLUAV, although this was was not apparent at 30 days.
Impact on disease mortality of clinical, biological, and virological characteristics at hospital admission and overtime in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Yazdanpanah Yazdan ,   French COVID cohort investigators and study group
Published: October 2020

Little is known on the association between clinical factors and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) more than 15 days after diagnosis. We conducted a multicentric prospective cohort of COVID‐19 hospitalized patients to describe clinical, biological, and virological characteristics at hospital admission and over time, according to mortality up to Day 60 after admission. For the analysis of risk factors of survival, analyses assessing associations between mortality and demographic characteristics or comorbidities were performed using a Cox regression model. Between January 24 and March 15, 2020, 246 patients with reverse‐transcriptase polymerase chain reactions virologically confirmed COVID‐19 were enrolled. In multivariate analysis, mortality at Day 60 (n = 42 patients, 17.1% [95% confidence interval, 12.6–22.4]) was associated with older age (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] for age ≥ 65 years: 5.22 [2.56–10.63, p < .001]), gender (aHR for male: 2.97 [1.47–5.99, p = .002]), chronic pulmonary disease (aHR: 4.84 [2.32–10.07, p < .001]), obesity (aHR: 3.32 [1.70–6.52, p < .001]), and diabetes (aHR: 1.98 [1.01–3.89, p = .048]). The median nasopharyngeal viral load at admission was 6.4 log10 copies/ml and was associated with mortality regardless of clinical risk factors. Viral load decreased with time elapsed since symptoms onset. Our study confirmed that mortality was associated with clinical characteristics at admission. The viral load at admission was significantly lower in patients admitted late after the onset of symptoms in both dead and alive patients. Our results could improve earlier identification of patients with increased risk of mortality and adapted management.
Characterization of daily rainfall variability in Hong Kong: A nonlinear dynamic perspective
Authors: Shu Zhenru , Chan Pak Wai , Li Qiusheng , He Yuncheng , Yan Bowen
Published: October 2020

Modelling and forecasting of rainfall behaviour are of essential importance in various hydrological and meteorological studies, which depends largely on properly understanding the underlying rainfall dynamics. In this paper, 20‐years (i.e., 2000–2019) measurements of daily rainfall data at 6 rain gauge stations in Hong Kong were analysed in the framework of nonlinear dynamic analysis. Phase space reconstruction (PSR), recurrence plot (RP) and recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) were carried out to identify and characterize the chaotic nature of rainfall dynamics. The results of this study underscore the complex processes and variability that is associated with Hong Kong's rainfall data. The existence of chaos in rainfall process was well recognized across various stations. The rainfall dynamics were further investigated with respect to its inter‐annual and monthly variability. The dependence of rainfall dynamics on different temporal scales was likewise examined, which indicates that the rainfall dynamics at finer resolution are less complex than those at coarser resolution, thus the consequent rainfall variability is less pronounced.
Attenuated total reflection‐cascading nanostructure‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy on flat surfaces: A nano‐optical design
Authors: You En‐Ming , Wang Hai‐Long , Zheng Jun‐Rong , Meng Zhao‐Dong , Zhang Mao‐Xin , Ding Song‐Yuan , Tian Zhong‐Qun
Published: October 2020

The surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) effect was discovered by Richard Van Duyne et al. in 1977. He and coworkers also first utilized an innovative strategy that used SERS to record spectra on such SERS‐inactive substrate surfaces as n‐gallium arsenide (100) surfaces, which were modified by silver nano‐islands. This nanostructure‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy on flat surfaces (NERSoFS) enabled such SERS applications to be expanded to a variety of materials by virtue of SERS‐active nanostructures such as Au or Ag nanoparticles and shell‐isolated nanoparticles. However, most of such systems, although yielding Raman spectra, produce rather low enhancements, especially when used to record spectra on flat surfaces of SERS‐inactive materials. In this work, along with the direction of Van Duyne's borrowing‐SERS strategy and on the basis of the strategy of cascading optical coupling, we consider a theoretically designed optical configuration, based on an attenuated total reflection‐cascading nanostructure to produce enhanced Raman spectroscopy (ATRc‐NERS) on flat surfaces. This system can effectively harvest the incident light, thereby boosting the local optical field of the incident light and also moderately increasing the radiation field of the Raman‐scattered signals. In this way, one can gain 1–2 additional orders of magnitude in Raman enhancement over present NERSoFS systems both on metallic and nonmetallic flat surfaces, which are otherwise SERS‐inactive. This ATRc‐NERS strategy can potentially be used to develop ultrasensitive and versatile tools for surface science, material science, catalysis, electrochemistry, and micro‐electronics and micro‐LED industries.
The Ending Self‐Stigma for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (ESS‐P) Program: Results of a Pilot Randomized Trial
Authors: Drapalski Amy L. , Aakre Jennifer , Brown Clayton H. , Romero Erin , Lucksted Alicia
Published: October 2020

Experiences of and concerns about encountering stigma are common among veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One common and serious consequence is self‐stigma, which is when an individual comes to believe that common negative stereotypes and assumptions about PTSD are true of oneself. The current study was a pilot randomized trial that evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of the Ending Self‐Stigma for PTSD (ESS‐P) program, a nine‐session group intervention that aims to assist veterans with PTSD learn tools and strategies to address stigma and self‐stigma. Veterans (N = 57) with a diagnosis of PTSD who were receiving treatment in U.S. Veterans Health Administration outpatient mental health programs were recruited. Participants were randomized to either ESS‐P or minimally enhanced treatment as usual and assessed at baseline and after treatment on clinical symptoms, self‐stigma, self‐efficacy, recovery, and sense of belonging. Information on mental health treatment utilization for the 3 months before and after group treatment was also collected. Compared to controls, there was a significant decrease in self‐stigma, d = −0.77, and symptoms of depression, d = −0.76, along with significant increases in general and social self‐efficacy, ds = 0.73 and 0.60, respectively, and psychological experience of belonging, d = 0.46, among ESS‐P participants. There were no differences regarding recovery status or changes in treatment utilization. The results of the pilot study suggest that participation in ESS‐P may help reduce self‐stigma and improve self‐efficacy and a sense of belonging in veterans with PTSD.
Predicting Placenta Accreta Spectrum
Authors: Happe Sarah K. , Yule Casey S. , Spong Catherine Y. , Wells C. Edward , Dashe Jodi S. , Moschos Elysia , Rac Martha W. F. , McIntire Donald D. , Twickler Diane M.
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) incidence has risen substantially over the past century, paralleling a rise in cesarean delivery (CD) rates. Prenatal diagnosis of PAS improves maternal outcomes. The Placenta Accreta Index (PAI) is a standardized approach to prenatal diagnosis of PAS incorporating clinical risk and ultrasound (US) findings suggestive of placental invasion. We sought to validate the PAI for prediction of PAS in pregnancies with prior CD.

Methods

This work was a retrospective cohort study of pregnancies with 1 or more prior CDs that received a US diagnosis of placenta previa or low‐lying placenta in the third trimester. Images of third‐trimester US with a complete placental evaluation were read by 2 blinded physicians, and the PAI was applied. Surgical outcomes and pathologic findings were reviewed. Placenta accreta spectrum was diagnosed if clinical evidence of invasion was seen at time of delivery or if any placental invasion was identified histologically. International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics criteria were used.

Results

A total of 194 women met inclusion criteria. Cesarean hysterectomy was performed in 92 (47%), CD in 97 (50%), and vaginal delivery in 5 (3%). Of those who underwent hysterectomy, PAS was histologically confirmed in 79 (85%) pregnancies. Of the remaining 13 who underwent hysterectomy, all met International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics grade 1 clinical criteria for PAS. With a threshold of greater than 4, the PAI has a sensitivity of 87%, specificity of 77%, positive predictive value of 72%, and negative predictive value of 90% for PAS diagnosis.

Conclusions

Contemporaneous application of the PAI, a standardized approach to US diagnosis, is useful in the prenatal prediction of PAS.
Prenatal Assessment of Atypical Adrenal Glands
Authors: Lesieur Emmanuelle , Noire Aurélie , Maurice Paul , Garel Catherine , Jouannic Jean‐Marie , Chaumoitre Katia , Bretelle Florence , Haumonte Jean Baptiste , Gorincour Guillaume , Quarello Edwin
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to identify specific unusual prenatal ultrasound (US) patterns of the adrenal gland and to propose a systematic approach for diagnosis. Six fetuses with unusual aspects of one or both adrenal glands, detected during routine prenatal US screening, were evaluated. Prenatal and postnatal management are described. A checklist of US features was created to perform a detailed analysis of adrenal lesions and guide prenatal management; this includes the time of appearance, location, growth, vascularization, structure, and presence of findings suggestive of malignancy.