bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age Is Associated With Pain Experience and Opioid Use After Head and Neck Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Rettig Eleni M. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Moore Eric J. , Price Daniel L. , Glasgow Amy E. , Marinelli John P. , Habermann Elizabeth B. , Van Abel Kathryn M.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To describe pain experience and opioid use after major head and neck reconstructive surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients undergoing major head and neck surgery with microvascular free tissue transfer (free flaps) at a tertiary academic center were included. Pain scores (0–10) and demographic and clinical data were ascertained from medical records. Discharge opioid prescriptions and refills obtained within 30 days were recorded. Patient characteristics were compared with pain scores using nonparametric rank‐sum tests and with likelihood of refill using logistic regression models to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

The study population comprised 445 patients. Median age was 60 years (interquartile range 50–68). Most patients had cancer (N = 350, 78%). The majority of free flaps were fibula (N = 153, 34%) or radial forearm (N = 159, 36%). Older patients reported significantly lower pain scores, whereas patients with opioid tolerance, anxiety, current smokers, and those undergoing larger volume resections or boney free flaps reported significantly higher pain scores. One‐quarter (N = 115, 26%) of patients obtained opioid refills. Patients aged ≥ 60 years had one‐half the odds of obtaining a refill compared with patients aged < 60 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.33–0.84), whereas surgical defect volume ≥ 100 cm3 (aOR = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.21–3.07) and higher pain score (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.07–1.32 per 1 point increase) increased the odds of refill.

Conclusion

Continued opioid use after discharge is common among patients undergoing major head and neck reconstruction, particularly for younger patients and after more extensive surgery. Older patients reported lower pain intensity and were less likely to obtain opioid refills, highlighting the wisdom of judicious opioid use for this vulnerable population.

Level of Evidence

IV Laryngoscope, 130: E469–E478, 2020
Stapler Use in Salvage Total Laryngectomy: A Useful Tool?
Authors: Galli Jacopo , Salvati Antonio , Di Cintio Giovanni , Mastrapasqua Rodolfo F. , Parrilla Claudio , Paludetti Gaetano , Almadori Giovanni
Published: May 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To analyze stapler benefits in salvage total laryngectomy in terms of surgical time, hospitalization length, oral feeding time, and occurrence of pharyngocutaneous fistula, and to evaluate risk factors for its onset.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Methods

One hundred fourteen patients affected by endolaryngeal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent salvage total laryngectomy following primary treatment failure were reviewed. We divided patients into two groups based on type of pharyngeal suture performed: mechanical suture with stapler (group A) and manual suture (group B). These two groups were compared for surgical time, start of oral feeding, hospitalization length, surgical margins and pharyngocutaneous fistula incidence considering its relationship with diabetes mellitus, nutritional status, primary treatment, and neck dissection.

Results

In group A and group B, oral feeding restarting time was 15 ± 9.33 versus 20.03 ± 13.81 days, hospitalization was 17.63 ± 10.08 versus 23.72 ± 14.29 days, and surgery lasted 268.39 ± 76.93 versus 294.26 ± 140.58 minutes, respectively (P < .05). Surgical margins resulted infiltrated in two patients (4.3%) in group A and 12 patients in group B (17.6%) (P = .03).

Twenty‐one patients (18.4%) presented with pharyngocutanoeus fistula. In group A and group B the incidence of fistula was 15.2% and 20.6%, respectively (P = .468). Fistula occurred in 7 of 18 diabetic patients (38.9%) and 14 of 96 (14.6%) nondiabetic patients (P = .015). Nineteen fistulas (90.5%) occurred in patients who had undergone previous radiation treatment (P = .013).

Conclusions

Using a stapler shortened operative time and hospitalization, while also providing a faster restart of oral feeding. Moreover, mechanical pharyngeal suture seems to decrease fistula rate even though its prevention role in salvage laryngectomy should be confirmed by further studies.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E473–E478, 2021
Experience With the Endoscopic Contralateral Transmaxillary Approach to the Petroclival Skull Base
Authors: Snyderman Carl H. , Gardner Paul A. , Wang Eric W. , Fernandez‐Miranda Juan C. , Valappil Benita
Published: May 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

The contralateral transmaxillary (CTM) approach is a new surgical approach that improves the surgical trajectory relative to the petrous segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA). Here, we present our clinical experience with the CTM approach to the petroclival region of the skull base.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

A retrospective review of 29 patients who underwent a CTM approach for skull base pathology from 2015 to 2020 was performed. Assessment of gross total resection (GTR) was based on postoperative imaging.

Results

The male:female ratio was 15:14, with an average age of 52 years (range = 19–78 years). Diagnoses included: 12 chondrosarcomas, 11 chordomas, two meningiomas, one schwannoma, one metastasis, one petrous apicitis, and one arachnoid cyst. CTM was performed in addition to a transclival approach and ipsilateral transpterygoid approach in all patients. Reconstruction of surgical defects included a vascularized flap in all but two patients: 24 nasoseptal flaps and three lateral nasal wall flaps. The reconstructive flap was on the same side as the CTM approach in 22 of 28 (79%) patients. There were no ICA injuries. In a subset of patients with chondromatous tumors, GTR of the targeted area was achieved in 16 of 22 (73%) evaluable chondromatous tumors. With a median follow‐up of 13 months, 64% of these patients are without disease or dead of other causes; the remainder are alive with disease.

Conclusions

The CTM approach improves the degree of resection of skull base tumors involving the petroclival region using an endoscopic endonasal approach and may minimize risk to the ICA.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:294–298, 2021
Office‐Based Lower Airway Endoscopy: Feasibility and Safety
Authors: Amador Eulalia , Tierney William S. , Hopkins Brandon
Published: May 2020

Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to identify the ease and safety of office‐based lower airway endoscopy (OLAE) in patients with and without comorbidities. In addition, we identified the most common indications for OLAE and the associated diagnosis.

Methods

A retrospective review on 567 patients and 706 in‐office flexible fiberoptic procedures was performed. Using a previously established grading system, the ease of visualization of the subglottis, trachea, and carina was assessed, in addition to the overall ease of the exam.

Results

Four hundred and eighty‐eight videos were available for review. Of those, 105 videos included an OLAE, accounting for 21.5% of all procedures. Laryngomalacia was the most common diagnosis in 35 of 105 (36%) OLAE. For all laryngomalacia cases, the overall ease was found to be on average 2.15 (standard error 0.12). Fisher exact testing showed a statistical significance in the ability to visualize the trachea between the types of Laryngomalacia (LM) (P = .035). Fisher exact testing was performed comparing LM types I, II, or III, and combined types of LM; no statistical difference was found between groups. In 4.76% of OLAE procedures, a subglottic pathology was diagnosed. Comorbidities were found in OLAE 26 of 105 patients. There were no complications identified.

Conclusion

We found OLAE more challenging than previously reported. OLAE of combined types of laryngomalacia was subjectively more difficult, but this difference did not reach statistical significance. OLAE continues to be a safe alternative to operative laryngoscopy in pediatric patients and appears safe in those with comorbidities when precautions are taken.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 131:E649–E652, 2021
Clinical Significance of Spontaneous Portosystemic Shunts in Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Allard Marc‐Antoine , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Kokudo Takashi , Kobayashi Kosuke , Kaneko Junichi , Ishizawa Takeaki , Arita Junichi , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: May 2020

Spontaneous portosystemic shunts (SPSS) are commonly observed in patients undergoing living donor liver transplantation (LDLT); however, their impact on the outcome after transplantation is unclear. We aimed to assess the type, size, and the effects of SPSS on outcomes after LDLT. A total of 339 LDLT recipients in a single institution were included. The type and diameter of the SPSS (splenorenal shunt [SRS], oesogastric shunt, and umbilical shunt) were retrospectively analyzed. A large shunt was defined as having a diameter ≤7 mm. No portal flow modulation was attempted over time. Portal complications were defined as stenosis, thrombosis, or hepatofugal flow requiring any treatment after transplantation. There were 202 (59.0%) patients who exhibited at least 1 large SPSS. Neither the size nor type of SPSS was associated with mortality, morbidity, or liver function recovery. However, the incidence of portal complications was significantly higher in patients with a large SRS (8.6% versus 2.9%; P = 0.04). Multivariate analysis of portal complications revealed 2 independent predictors: pre‐LT portal vein thrombosis (PVT) and SRS size. The observed risk among recipients with pre‐LT PVT was 8.3% when the SRS was ≤7 mm, but increased to 38.5% when the SRS was >15 mm. The present study suggests that large SPSS do not negatively affect the outcomes after LDLT. However, a large SRS is associated with a higher risk of portal complications, particularly in recipients with pre‐LT PVT, for whom intraoperative intervention for SRS should be considered. Otherwise, a conservative approach to SPSS during LDLT seems reasonable.
Analysis of natural organic matter via fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry: an overview of recent non‐petroleum applications
Authors: Qi Yulin , Fu Pingqing , Volmer Dietrich A.
Published: May 2020

Among the different techniques for mass analysis, ultra‐high‐resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (FTICR) is the method of choice for highly complex samples, as it offers unrivaled mass accuracy and resolving power, combined with a high degree of flexibility in hybrid instruments as well as for ion activation techniques. FTICR instruments are readily embraced by the biological and biomedical research communities and applied over a wide range of applications for the analysis of biomolecules such as carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins. In the field of natural organic matter (NOM) analysis, petroleum‐related studies currently dominate FTICR‐MS applications. Recently, however, there is a growing interest in developing high‐performance MS methods for the characterization of NOM samples from natural aquatic and terrestrial environments. Here, we present an overview of FTICR‐MS techniques for complex, non‐petroleum NOM samples, including data analysis and novel tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) methods for structural classifications. © 2020 The Authors. Mass Spectrometry Reviews published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Access and Use of Device‐Aided Therapies for Parkinson’s Disease in Denmark
Authors: Henriksen Tove , Dalhoff Kim Peder , Hansen Henriette Engel , Brenneche Andreas W. , Lønberg Ulla Sofie , Danielsen Erik Hvid
Published: May 2020

Background

In Denmark’s five regions, there is potential inequality in access to device‐aided therapy (DAT) for Parkinson’s disease (PD) based on structural or socioeconomic factors. It is unclear how long DAT is maintained and affects concomitant medication.

Objectives

To investigate access to DAT by comparing the proportion of patients with DBS, subcutaneous apomorphine infusion (SCAI), or levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) in Danish regions 2008–2016 and describe demographics of patients, changes in use of comedication, and maintenance of DAT.

Methods

This work is a retrospective nationwide population‐based registry analysis generated by combining various registries and statistics in Denmark.

Results

From 2008 to 2016, 612 patients started DAT. There were statistically significant differences in the number of patients starting DAT between the Capital Region (99.5 per 1,000) and both Central Jutland (66.6 per 1,000) and North Jutland (70.6 per 1,000; P < 0.05). Among DBS and LCIG patients, respectively, 4% and 42% were aged ≥70 years, 68% and 63% were men (vs. 59% in the general PD population; P < 0.05 for DBS), 73% and 63% had a partner (vs. 62% in the general PD population), and 73% and 71% had a qualifying education (vs. 63% in the general PD population; P < 0.05). Use of PD‐related medication decreased significantly from 4 years before to 4 years after DAT. Eighty‐one percent of the patients who started LCIG, alive 4 years later, had maintained this treatment.

Conclusions

There is unequal access to DAT in the Danish regions, and political and social considerations are warranted to address structural and socioeconomic causes.
Highly air‐stabilized black phosphorus on disposable paper substrate as a tunnelling effect‐based highly sensitive piezoresistive strain sensor
Authors: Selamneni Venkatarao , B S Amogh , Sahatiya Parikshit
Published: May 2020

This report demonstrates synthesis of black phosphorus (BP) from red phosphorus using sonochemistry and the direct growth of highly air‐stable BP on cellulose paper using hydrothermal method with PDMS as passivation and its utilization in human motion monitoring system. PDMS not only hinders the oxidation of BP but also provides flexibility to the device, thereby allowing the use of paper‐based device as strain sensor. Fabricated device exhibits gauge factor of 6.1, which is comparable with the devices fabricated using sophisticated cleanroom techniques, and device is tested for 2,000 bending cycles revealing excellent reliability and repeatability. Device displayed excellent hysteresis suggesting that tunnelling effect is responsible for the current change of the device upon the external strain. Mathematical model is formulated to describe tunnelling conduction which matched the experimental results. Further, device exhibits excellent air stability for 98 days wherein negligible change in resistance and strain sensing performance is observed. Fabricated device is integrated onto different parts of the human body for its real‐time application in human motion monitoring. Successful demonstration of the direct growth of highly air‐stable BP on flexible and biodegradable cellulose paper opens up new avenues of research in optoelectronics, health care, security etc.
Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis in the Russian population: Two novel mutations and the prevalence of heterozygous carriers
Authors: Kozina Anastasiya A. , Okuneva Elena G. , Baryshnikova Natalia V. , Kondakova Olga B. , Nikolaeva Ekaterina A. , Fedoniuk Inessa D. , Mikhailova Svetlana V. , Krasnenko Anna Y. , Stetsenko Ivan F. , Plotnikov Nikolay A. , Klimchuk Olesia I. , Popov Yaroslav V. , Surkova Ekaterina I. , Shatalov Peter A. , Rakitko Alexander S. , Ilinsky Valery V.
Published: May 2020

Background

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (NCLs) are a group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by an accumulation of lipofuscin in the body's tissues. NCLs are associated with variable age of onset and progressive symptoms including seizures, psychomotor decline, and loss of vision.

Methods

We describe the clinical and molecular characteristics of four Russian patients with NCL (one female and three males, with ages ranging from 4 to 5 years). The clinical features of these patients include cognitive and motor deterioration, seizures, stereotypies, and magnetic resonance imaging signs of brain atrophy. Exome sequencing was performed to identify the genetic variants of patients with NCL. Additionally, we tested 6,396 healthy Russians for NCL alleles.

Results

We identified five distinct mutations in four NCL‐associated genes of which two mutations are novel. These include a novel homozygous frameshift mutation in the CLN6 gene, a compound heterozygous missense mutation in the KCTD7 gene, and previously known mutations in KCTD7, TPP1, and MFSD8 genes. Furthermore, we estimated the Russian population carrier frequency of pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in 13 genes associated with different types of NCL.

Conclusion

Our study expands the spectrum of mutations in lipofuscinosis. This is the first study to describe the molecular basis of NCLs in Russia and has profound and numerous clinical implications for diagnosis, genetic counseling, genotype–phenotype correlations, and prognosis.
Missense NR2F1 variant in monozygotic twins affected with the Bosch–Boonstra–Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome
Authors: Mio Catia , Fogolari Federico , Pezzoli Laura , D’Elia Angela V. , Iascone Maria , Damante Giuseppe
Published: May 2020

Background

The Bosch‐Boonstra‐Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome (BBSOAS) is an autosomal‐dominant disorder (OMIM615722) mostly characterized by optic atrophy and/or hypoplasia, mild intellectual disability, hypotonia, seizures/infantile epilepsy. This disorder is caused by loss‐of‐function alterations of NR2F1 (i.e., either whole gene deletions or single nucleotide variants) and, to date, 40 patients have been identified with deletions or mutations in this gene. Here we describe two monozygotic twins harboring a de novo missense variant in the DNA‐binding domain of NR2F1 (c.313G>A, p.Gly105Ser), with well‐characterized features associated to BBSOAS.

Methods

Patients’ DNA was analyzed by exome sequencing identifying the missense variant c.313G>A in NR2F1 (NM_005654.4). Furthermore, molecular modeling was performed to evaluate putative differences in DNA binding between wild‐type and mutated NR2F1.

Results

The missense variant is predicted to be likely pathogenetic following the ACMG (American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics)/AMP (Association for Molecular Pathology) guidelines. Indeed, dynamic simulation experiments highlighted that the Gly105Ser substitution let the formation of a hydrogen bond between the S105 side chain and R142 and a base (G5) of the DNA sequence, allowing us to hypothesize that the G105 residue might be evolutionary conserved due to the absence of a side chain, besides glycine conformational features. Therefore, the G105S variation seems to cause a stiffening and a possible deformation in the protein‐DNA complex due to the interaction of residues R142‐S105 and G5 on the DNA, compared to the wild‐type.

Conclusion

In summary, we described two monozygotic twins harboring a novel Gly105Ser mutation in NR2F1 DNA binding domain, displaying the classical phenotype of BBSOAS‐affected patients. Our computational data suggest a dominant negative effect of this newly characterized missense variant. To date, this is the first genetic report analyzing in silico structural consequences of NR2F1 Gly105Ser substitution.
14q12q13.2 microdeletion syndrome: Clinical characterization of a new patient, review of the literature, and further evidence of a candidate region for CNS anomalies
Authors: Ponzi Emanuela , Gentile Mattia , Agolini Emanuele , Matera Emilia , Palumbi Roberto , Buonadonna Antonia Lucia , Peschechera Antonia , Gabellone Alessandra , Antonucci Maria Fatima , Margari Lucia
Published: May 2020

Background

Chromosome 14q11‐q22 deletion syndrome (OMIM 613457) is a rare contiguous gene syndrome. Two regions of overlap (RO) of the 14q12q21.1 deletion have been identified: a proximal region (RO1), including FOXG1(*164874), NKX2‐1(*600635), and PAX9(*167416) and a distal region (RO2), including NKX2‐1 and PAX9. We report a 6‐year‐old boy with mild dysmorphic facial features, global developmental delay, and hypoplasia of the corpus callosum.

Methods and Results

Array‐CGH analysis revealed a 14q12q13.2 microdeletion. We compared the phenotype of our patient with previously published cases in order to establish a genotype–phenotype correlation.

Conclusion

The study hypothesizes the presence of a new RO, not including the previously reported candidate genes, and attempt to define the associated molecular and psychomotor/neurobehavioral phenotype. This region encompasses the distal breakpoint of RO1 and the proximal breakpoint of RO2, and seems to be associated with intellectual disability (ID), hypotonia, epilepsy, and corpus callosum abnormalities. Although more cases are needed, we speculated on SNX6(*606098) and BAZ1A(*605680) as potential candidate genes associated with the corpus callosum abnormalities.
MHA virtual Hill Day makes case for congressional support
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2020

Mental health advocates and the general public at large stand poised to take action and urge their elected representatives for emergency funding for community behavioral health organizations faced with program closures and other challenges during this pandemic. Mental Health America (MHA) sponsored a virtual Hill Day May 11, which sought to establish the case for increased mental health funding as a key component of any upcoming COVID‐19 emergency relief legislation.
The Beneficial Effects of Lippia Citriodora Extract on Diet‐Induced Obesity in Mice Are Associated with Modulation in the Gut Microbiota Composition
Authors: Diez‐Echave Patricia , Vezza Teresa , Rodríguez‐Nogales Alba , Hidalgo‐Garcia Laura , Garrido‐Mesa José , Ruiz‐Malagon Antonio , Molina‐Tijeras Jose Alberto , Romero Miguel , Robles‐Vera Iñaki , Leyva‐Jiménez Francisco Javier , Lozano‐Sanchez Jesús , Arráez‐Román David , Segura‐Carretero Antonio , Micol Vicente , García Federico , Morón Rocío , Duarte Juan , Rodríguez‐Cabezas Maria Elena , Gálvez Julio
Published: May 2020

Scope

Obesity is characterized by a dysfunction in the adipose tissue and an inflammatory subclinical state leading to insulin resistance and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is also associated with intestinal dysbiosis that contributes to inflammation development. Lippia citriodora (LCE) contains high levels of polyphenolpropanoids and has shown promising results in obesity. The aim of this study is to investigate a well‐characterized extract of LCE in a model of metabolic syndrome in mice, focusing on its effects on metabolic tissues, endothelial dysfunction, and microbiome.

Methods

Mice are fed a high fat diet (HFD) for six weeks and treated daily with LCE (1, 10, and 25 mg kg−1). Glucose and lipid metabolism is investigated. The inflammatory state in the metabolic tissues and the intestinal microbiota composition are characterized, as well as the endothelium‐dependent vasodilator response to acetylcholine.

Results

LCE reduces fat accumulation and improves plasma glycemic and lipid profiles, as well as the inflammatory process and vascular dysfunction. Moreover, LCE lessens intestinal dysbiosis, as it reduces the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and increases Akkermansia abundance in comparison with untreated HFD mice.

Conclusion

The antiobesity therapeutic properties of LCE are most probably mediated by the synergic effects of its bioactive compounds.
A motion prediction confidence estimation framework for prediction‐based radiotherapy gating
Authors: Ginn John S. , Low Daniel A. , Lamb James M. , Ruan Dan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Motion prediction can compensate for latency in image‐guided radiotherapy and has been an active area of research. However, motion predictions are subject to error and variations. We have developed and evaluated a novel motion prediction confidence estimation framework to improve the efficacy and robustness of prediction‐based radiotherapy gating decision‐making. The specific scenario of adaptive gating in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided radiotherapy is studied as an example, but the method generalizes to other modalities and motion management setups.

Methods

The proposed prediction confidence estimator is based on a generic training/testing paradigm and consists of a weighted combination of three components: the prediction model’s goodness of fit, variation in the prediction using a leave‐one‐out process and the velocity of the tracked target. Roughly, these terms quantify respectively the consistency between prediction and the training data, the robustness of model inference, and the stability due to target speed. The weight parameters and the action level in triggering beam‐off decision are optimized. The method is assessed and validated in 8 healthy volunteer and 13 patient studies using a 0.35T MRI‐guided radiotherapy system predicting 0.25–0.33 s ahead. The effect of the action level on the predicted gating decision accuracy, beam‐on positive predictive value (PPV) and median distance between the predicted and ground‐truth target centroids were evaluated. Statistical significance was evaluated using a paired t‐test. The tradeoff between these performance metrics and gating duty cycle was assessed.

Results

Use of the confidence estimator threshold increased gating accuracy by up to 2.42%, increased PPV by up to 3.00%, and reduced the median centroid distance up to 0.28 mm. The confidence estimator threshold on average increased gating accuracy to 96.5% (P = 2.08 × 10−4), increased PPV to 96.7% (P = 1.46 × 10−5), reduced the median centroid distance to 0.54 mm (P = 1.71 × 10−5) at the cost of reducing the gating duty cycle by 14.3% to 48.5%. Hyperparameter tuning revealed that contrary to intuition, the velocity term offered only minimal performance improvement in some cases but also introduced potential stability issues. The combination of goodness of fit and leave‐one‐out prediction variation provided the most effective confidence estimator, yielding universally better performance in gating decisions.

Conclusion

Confidence estimation utilizing prediction model fitness criterion and validation principles can complement prediction methods to guide MRI‐guided radiotherapy gating. Results from both volunteer and patient studies showed improved gating quality.
One‐bond 1J(15N,H) coupling constants at sp2‐hybridized nitrogen of Schiff bases, enaminones and similar compounds: A theoretical study
Authors: Hansen Poul Erik , Saeed Bahjat A. , Rutu Rita S. , Kupka Teobald
Published: May 2020

1J(15N,H) coupling constants for enaminones and NH‐forms of intramolecularly hydrogen‐bonded Schiff bases as model compounds for sp2‐hybridized nitrogen atoms are evaluated using density functional theory (DFT) to find the optimal functionals and basis sets. Ammonia is used as a test molecule and its one‐bond coupling constant is compared with experiment. A methylamine Schiff base of a truncated molecule of gossypol is used for checking the performance of selected B3LYP, O3LYP, PBE, BHandH, and APFD density functionals and standard, modified, and dedicated basis sets for coupling constants. Both in vacuum and in chloroform, modeled by the simple continuum model of solvent, the modified basis sets predict significantly better the 1J(15N,H) value in ammonia and in the methylamine Schiff base of a truncated molecule of gossypol than the standard basis sets. This procure is then used on a broad set of intramolecularly hydrogen‐bonded molecules, and a good correlation between calculated and experimental one‐bond NH coupling constants is obtained. The 1J(15N,H) couplings are slightly overestimated. The calculated data show for hydrogen‐bonded NH interatomic distances that the calculated values depend on the NH bond lengths. The shorter the bond lengths, the larger the 1J(15N,H). A useful correlation between 1J(15N,H) and NH bond length is derived that enables realistic predictions of one‐bond NH coupling constants. The calculations reproduce experimentally observed trends for the studied molecules.
Intrafollicular spontaneous parthenogenetic development of dromedary camel oocytes
Authors: Abdoon Ahmed S. S. , Kandil Omaima M. , Zeng Shen‐ming
Published: May 2020

Dromedary camel oocytes are unique in their capability for intrafollicular and in vitro spontaneous parthenogenetic activation (SPA) and development. This study was designed for (a) observing the incidence of SPA and development of dromedary camel oocytes retrieved from ovaries; (b) assessing intrafollicular development of dromedary camel oocytes using histological examination; (c) evaluating the abilities of dromedary camel oocytes to mature, SPA, and develop in vitro; and (d) identifying the transcript abundance of Cdx2 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in different stages of SPA and developed camel embryos. The results revealed that 2.33% of oocytes retrieved from dromedary camel ovaries were SPA and developed to blastocyst stage. Serial sections of dromedary camel ovaries also demonstrated the presence of 1.4 SPA and parthenotes per ovary, which included from two‐cell to the blastocysts with demarcated trophectoderm and inner cell mass layers. A total of 2.6% in vitro matured dromedary camel oocytes developed into morulae. The SPA and developed dromedary embryos expressed transcript abundance for Cdx2 mRNA with the highest (p < .05) at the blastocyst. The present work determines for the first time the intrafollicular oocytes from the dromedary camel display SPA, and the parthenotes can develop into blastocysts and expressing Cdx2 mRNA.
Investigating the origin of pH‐sensitive magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry MRI contrast during the acute stroke: Correction of T1 change reveals the dominant amide proton transfer MRI signal
Authors: Wu Limin , Jiang Liang , Sun Phillip Zhe
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Amide proton transfer (APT) MRI is promising to serve as a surrogate metabolic imaging biomarker of acute stroke. Although the magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTRasym) has been used commonly, the origin of pH‐weighted MRI effect remains an area of investigation, including contributions from APT, semisolid MT contrast asymmetry, and nuclear Overhauser enhancement effects. Our study aimed to determine the origin of pH‐weighted MTRasym contrast following acute stroke.

Methods

Multiparametric MRI, including T1, T2, diffusion and Z‐spectrum, were performed in rats after middle cerebral artery occlusion. We analyzed the conventional Z‐spectrum
and the apparent exchange spectrum
, being the difference between the relaxation‐scaled inverse Z‐spectrum and the intrinsic spinlock relaxation rate
. The ischemia‐induced change was calculated as the spectral difference between the diffusion lesion and the contralateral normal area.

Results

The conventional Z‐spectrum signal change at −3.5 ppm dominates that at +3.5 ppm (−1.16 ± 0.39% vs. 0.76 ± 0.26%, P < .01) following acute stroke. In comparison, the magnitude of ΔRex change at 3.5 ppm becomes significantly larger than that at −3.5 ppm (−2.80 ± 0.40% vs. −0.94 ± 0.80%, P < .001), with their SNR being 7.0 and 1.2, respectively. We extended the magnetization transfer and relaxation normalized APT concept to the apparent exchange–dependent relaxation image, documenting an enhanced pH contrast between the ischemic lesion and the intact tissue, over that of MTRasym.

Conclusion

Our study shows that after the relaxation‐effect correction, the APT effect is the dominant contributing factor to pH‐weighted MTRasym following acute stroke.
The future of upper extremity rehabilitation robotics: research and practice
Authors: Vu Philip P. , Chestek Cynthia A. , Nason Samuel R. , Kung Theodore A. , Kemp Stephen W.P. , Cederna Paul S.
Published: May 2020

The loss of upper limb motor function can have a devastating effect on people's lives. To restore upper limb control and functionality, researchers and clinicians have developed interfaces to interact directly with the human body's motor system. In this invited review, we aim to provide details on the peripheral nerve interfaces and brain‐machine interfaces that have been developed in the past 30 years for upper extremity control, and we highlight the challenges that still remain to transition the technology into the clinical market. The findings show that peripheral nerve interfaces and brain‐machine interfaces have many similar characteristics that enable them to be concurrently developed. Decoding neural information from both interfaces may lead to novel physiological models that may one day fully restore upper limb motor function for a growing patient population.
Identifying Under-Ice Overwintering Locations of Juvenile Chinook Salmon by Using Environmental DNA
Authors: Khalsa Noah S. , Smith Justin , Jochum Kim A. , Savory Garrett , López J. Andrés
Published: May 2020

The detection of fish by using environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis has been shown to be more cost-effective than traditional sampling methods are in certain situations, but this method has not been assessed under extreme winter conditions. We conducted a multiyear pilot study to test the effectiveness of eDNA for detecting fish under ice. In the spring of 2016, 2017, and 2018, we sampled for juvenile Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in the Tanana Flats (Alaska, USA) by using minnow traps and by using eDNA in the spring of 2017 and 2018. We used traps at 97 sites and analyzed eDNA that was isolated from water samples at 36 sites, using an established, species-specific quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay for Chinook Salmon. We detected Chinook Salmon by using eDNA at 12 of the 36 eDNA-sampled sites but did not capture any live juveniles in the minnow traps. Assuming that positive eDNA detections are reliable indicators of recent fish presence, we found that eDNA can be a more efficient and cost-effective alternative for monitoring aquatic communities under extreme winter conditions. Based on our experience, including eDNA-based screening of target sampling sites could prove to be a significant boost to the effectiveness of fish monitoring in remote and challenging habitats.
Hyperelastic finite deformation analysis with the unsymmetric finite element method containing homogeneous solutions of linear elasticity
Authors: Li Zhi , Cen Song , Huang Junbin , Li Chen‐Feng
Published: May 2020

A recent unsymmetric 4‐node, 8‐DOF plane finite element US‐ATFQ4 is generalized to hyperelastic finite deformation analysis. Since the trial functions of US‐ATFQ4 contain the homogenous closed analytical solutions of governing equations for linear elasticity, the key of the proposed strategy is how to deal with these linear analytical trial functions (ATFs) during the hyperelastic finite deformation analysis. Assuming that the ATFs can properly work in each increment, an algorithm for updating the deformation gradient interpolated by ATFs is designed. Furthermore, the update of the corresponding ATFs referred to current configuration is discussed with regard to the hyperelastic material model, and a specified model, neo‐Hookean model, is employed to verify the present formulation of US‐ATFQ4 for hyperelastic finite deformation analysis. Various examples show that the present formulation not only remain the high accuracy and mesh distortion tolerance in the geometrically nonlinear problems, but also possess excellent performance in the compressible or quasi‐incompressible hyperelastic finite deformation problems where the strain is large.
Weak‐form element differential method for solving mechanics and heat conduction problems with abruptly changed boundary conditions
Authors: Zheng Yong‐Tong , Gao Xiao‐Wei , Lv Jun , Peng Hai‐Feng
Published: May 2020

Element differential method (EDM), as a newly proposed numerical method, has been applied to solve many engineering problems because it has higher computational efficiency and it is more stable than other strong‐form methods. However, due to the utilization of strong‐form equations for all nodes, EDM become not so accurate when solving problems with abruptly changed boundary conditions. To overcome this weakness, in this article, the weak‐form formulations are introduced to replace the original formulations of element internal nodes in EDM, which produce a new strong‐weak‐form method, named as weak‐form element differential method (WEDM). WEDM has advantages in both the computational accuracy and the numerical stability when dealing with the abruptly changed boundary conditions. Moreover, it can even achieve higher accuracy than finite element method (FEM) in some cases. In this article, the computational accuracy of EDM, FEM, and WEDM are compared and analyzed. Meanwhile, several examples are performed to verify the robustness and efficiency of the proposed
WEDM.
A high‐order harmonic polynomial method for solving the Laplace equation with complex boundaries and its application to free‐surface flows. Part I: Two‐dimensional cases
Authors: Wang Jingbo , Faltinsen Odd Magnus , Duan Wenyang
Published: May 2020

A high‐order harmonic polynomial method (HPM) is developed for solving the Laplace equation with complex boundaries. The “irregular cell” is proposed for the accurate discretization of the Laplace equation, where it is difficult to construct a high‐quality stencil. An advanced discretization scheme is also developed for the accurate evaluation of the normal derivative of potential functions on complex boundaries. Thanks to the irregular cell and the discretization scheme for the normal derivative of the potential functions, the present method can avoid the drawback of distorted stencils, that is, the possible numerical inaccuracy/instability. Furthermore, it can involve stationary or moving bodies on the Cartesian grid in an accurate and simple way. With the proper free‐surface tracking methods, the HPM has been successfully applied to the accurate and stable modeling of highly nonlinear free‐surface potential flows with and without moving bodies, that is, sloshing, water entry, and plunging breaker.
The supracondylar process in subadult skeletal remains from Northern Italy (15th–18th century A.D.)
Authors: Palamenghi Andrea , Cinti Alessandra , Mann Robert W. , Viano Giorgia , Girotti Marilena , Garanzini Francesca , Fulcheri Ezio , Boano Rosa
Published: May 2020

This paper presents five uncommon examples of the supracondylar process in subadult skeletal remains from archaeological contexts. Human skeletal remains were recovered from the Baptistery of Settimo Vittone (Italy) that date to the 15th–18th centuries. A bony process was noted at the distal end of five immature humeri. The specimens were examined morphologically, and the following measurements were taken: length of the process and distance from the tip of the process to the medial epicondyle. The distal end of three right and two left immature humeri, from three full‐term individuals and two adolescents, revealed different stages of an unusual supracondylar bony outgrowth projecting from the anteromedial surface of the diaphysis. The processes in three individuals presented as a pointed bony spur, whereas in two cases, they appeared as bony ridges. The process was present more in right humeri and in one case occurred bilaterally. The supracondylar process begins its formation in the intrauterine period and continues throughout life, presenting as variable degrees of development. The occurrence of supracondylar process in very young individuals suggests the congenital nature of the trait, rather than a consequence of biomechanical stress. This case study describes a bony variant in humeri that has not been extensively discussed in the anthropological literature and provides evidence on the appearance of the supracondylar process in immature individuals. Also, an interesting presumed case of bilaterality is described: the asymmetry of the processes brings the aetiology of the trait into question. The small number of individuals presenting the supracondylar process does not allow a study of the incidence of this trait in this population sample. Furthermore, fragmentation of some remains precluded accurate measurements and age estimation. Additional studies on larger samples would help clarify the congenital and hereditary nature of the supracondylar process and the clinical implications in young individuals.
Sample specific sex estimation method using parameters around dominant nutrient foramina in unknown femur bones collection of contemporary Egyptians
Authors: Attia MennattAllah Hassan , Badr El‐Dine Fatma Mohamed Magdy , Attia Mohammed Hassan , El‐Sekily Nancy Mohamed Aly
Published: May 2020

Because there is no widely accepted sexing method of fragmented femoral diaphyses, we argue that the diaphyseal diameters and circumference around nutrient foramina (NF) have comparable sex discrimination capacity to their mid‐shaft counterparts. Construction of reliable reference sample (n = 61, 29 males and 32 females) using the undocumented Alexandria University Osteological Collection was contingent upon consistent sex estimation of the epiphyses using population and sample specific methods. Statistically significant size differences were found between the males and females diaphyseal measurements around NF. Low intraobserver measurements error and high sexual dimorphism indices were observed in the new measurements at NF level. The logistic regression analysis revealed that combinations of anteroposterior diameter and circumference at both levels were the optimal models for sex classification. Testing in the holdout sample showed complete agreement in the results between both models. The best model at the level of NF achieved consistent total sex allocation of 81.1% with high probability >0.80 of correct estimates in approximately 60% of the reference sample. A great applicability pertinent to sex estimation of a tubular fragment of femur bearing a single NF using the diaphyseal measurements around it because the maximal length is not required to determine the location of the mid‐shaft measurements.
Epoxy/Fly ash from Indian soil Chulha/nano CaCO3 nanocomposite: Studies on mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Tiwari Shilpi , Gehlot Chhagan Lal , Srivastava Deepak
Published: May 2020

At present, the recycling of solid wastage Fly ash (FA) to generate high‐value products grows enormous interest. FA, micron sized powder, from Indian soil Chulha (a small earthen or brick stove), is a byproduct that can be utilized as filler in epoxy resin with different wt% due to its unique properties. The main objective of this considerable research work is to determine the thermal, mechanical, and morphological properties of epoxy resin with FA and nano CaCO3. Two different sets of composite samples were fabricated for investigating purposes. The first set of samples was fabricated with FA and DGEBA epoxy resin. Another set of samples was prepared by FA, DGEBA epoxy resin, and nano CaCO3. In both sets, FA was varied from 0% to 50% by weight and nano CaCO3 from 1% to 7% by weight. For better dispersion of FA and nano‐particles, ultrasonication technique was performed. The curing behavior of specimen has been evaluated by DSC, whereas SEM and FTIR techniques were used to analyze the morphological properties of epoxy/FA/nano CaCO3 nanocomposite. The observed results indicated that thermal and mechanical properties like tensile strength, Shore D hardness and impact strength were improved by an increment of FA and nano CaCO3 concerning that of neat epoxy. The scope of this paper is limited to FA from Indian soil Chulha.
Development of graphite‐filled polymer blends for application in bipolar plates
Authors: Alo Oluwaseun A. , Otunniyi Iyiola O. , Pienaar HCvZ
Published: May 2020

In this study, the potential of conductive polymer composites based on graphite‐filled polymer blend for achieving high‐performance polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) bipolar plates (BPs) was investigated. Maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene‐compatibilized polypropylene (PP)/epoxy blend was selected as the matrix due to its good combination of mechanical strength and ductility, and its potential to form a co‐continuous morphology, which promotes the selective distribution of the filler in one of the polymer phases and formation of high electrical performance‐CPCs. PP/epoxy/graphite composites, with varying amounts of graphite, were prepared by melt mixing followed by compression molding, and then characterized. The results obtained showed that in‐plane and through‐plane electrical conductivities increased with an increase in graphite content while the flexural strength increased with graphite content up to a maximum value of 54.36 MPa at 70 wt% graphite, and then decreased to 40.16 MPa at 80 wt% graphite. The PP/epoxy/80 wt% graphite composite has the most promising combination of properties for BP application. While the PP/epoxy/80 wt% graphite composite exhibited in‐plane and through‐plane conductivities (68.03 and 3.211 Scm−1, respectively) that are still below the targets set by the United States Department of Energy (DOE), its flexural strength and modulus (40.16 and 11.47 GPa, respectively), density (1.77 gcm−3), and water absorption (0.098%) satisfy the DOE targets.
Shape memory thin films of Polyurethane: Does graphene content affect the recovery behavior of Polyurethane nanocomposites?
Authors: Zarghami Dehaghani Maryam , Kaffashi Babak , Haponiuk Józef T. , Piszczyk Lukasz
Published: May 2020

Thin nanocomposite films of polyurethane have received remarkable attention due to their shape memory properties. As most of the reports focus on the beneficial aspects of the presence of nanofillers such as graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) introduced into shape memory polymers, some research results reveal the opposite trend. The polyether/polyester‐based polyurethane was synthesized through a condensation polymerization and the nanocomposite films containing 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 wt.% of GNPs were prepared by the solvent casting method. The Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was carried out to investigate the chemical structure of nanocomposite films. The properties of nanocomposite films were verified by the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), tensile test, and the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The shape memory properties were studied through various thermomechanical cycles applied by the DMA apparatus. All the nanocomposite films showed larger glassy storage moduli compared with those of the neat PU films. The nanocomposite film containing 0.25 wt.% GNPs showed the highest shape recovery ratio (92.4%) since the net‐point effect of GNPs dominates its slipping effect. While for the other nanocomposite films the slippage effect overcomes the net‐point effect.
Fabrication of a wrinkled structure made of wearable polyacrylonitrile/polyurethane composite fibers with elastic sensing properties suitable for human movement detection
Authors: Lu Wuji , Chen Wenxing , Lu Wangyang
Published: May 2020

Research in wearable sensors is guided by the need for bendable, comfortable, and deformable sensors. In this study, an elastic electronic sensor is fabricated to monitor human movement. It adopts a centrifugal electrospinning technology, and the fibers form a wavy wrinkled structure by itself. This structure gives the sensor good resistance response under high strength deformation. After stretching to 180% of the original length, the numerical value of resistance is increased by 2000%. The sensor generates different signals that depend upon the variation in different human actions, making it suitable for use as a monitor of human movement.