bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modern discontinuous Galerkin methods for the simulation of transitional and turbulent flows in biomedical engineering: A comprehensive LES study of the FDA benchmark nozzle model
Authors: Fehn Niklas , Wall Wolfgang A. , Kronbichler Martin
Published: June 2019

This work uses high‐order discontinuous Galerkin discretization techniques to simulate transitional and turbulent flows through medical devices. Flows through medical devices are characterized by moderate Reynolds numbers and typically involve different flow regimes such as laminar, transitional, and turbulent flows. Previous studies for the FDA benchmark nozzle model revealed limitations of Reynolds‐averaged Navier‐Stokes turbulence models when applied to more complex flow scenarios. Recent works based on large‐eddy simulation approaches indicate that these limitations can be overcome but also highlight potential limitations due to a high sensitivity with respect to numerical parameters. The methodology presented in this work introduces two novel ingredients compared with previous studies. Firstly, we use high‐order discontinuous Galerkin methods for discretization in space. The inherent dissipation and dispersion properties of high‐order discontinuous Galerkin discretizations are expected to render this approach well suited for transitional and turbulent flow simulations. Secondly, to mimic blinded CFD studies, we propose to use a precursor simulation approach in order to predict the inflow boundary condition for laminar, transitional, and turbulent flow regimes instead of prescribing analytical velocity profiles at the inflow. We investigate the whole range of Reynolds numbers as suggested by the FDA benchmark nozzle problem and compare the numerical results to experimental data obtained by particle image velocimetry in order to critically assess the predictive capabilities of the solver on the one hand and the suitability of the FDA nozzle problem as a benchmark in computational fluid dynamics on the other hand.
Person re‐identification in the edge computing system: A deep square similarity learning approach
Authors: Chen Xin , Li Zhuo , Tang Chao , Xiao Shenglong , Chen Ying
Published: June 2019

The proliferation of mobile phones and webcams has led to an exponential increase in video data. One of the key technologies of video surveillance systems is Person Re‐identification (Re‐ID). The Re‐ID is used to identify whether the target pedestrian is the same person, and through scene matching, cross‐field tracking and track prediction of suspected pedestrians can be achieved. The edge computing has become the first choice for video analysis and processing, because of shorter response time and more efficient processing. In this paper, we propose a deep square similarity learning (DSSL), which considers the difference correlation, first‐order correlation, and two‐order correlation of image pairs. The training data automatically adjusts the network parameters and the weights of the three correlations to minimize the loss of the training set. Moreover, we conducted experiments on the challenging Re‐ID databases CuHK03 and Male1501. Compared with algorithm IDLA and DHSL, the first recognition rate is increased by 18% and 40%, respectively, in CuHK03, and 22% and 80% in Male1501. Then, we propose an online deep square similarity learning (ODSSL) algorithm to solve problem of data updating after the model is established by DSSL strategy. Meanwhile, ODSSL shows shorter update time and more efficient processing.
Intracluster cooperative communication in smart home scenario through stable election protocol
Authors: Immanuvel Arokia James K. , Prabakaran R.
Published: June 2019

A wireless sensor network (WSN) can give a coordinated and minimal effort checking and control answer for such keen emotionally supportive systems. In this paper, we have discussed about the SEP in comparison with LEACH for smart home applications. Smart home scenario of an industry is taken into consideration in our research. The normal sink node is represented in the name of link node that connects the multiple sectors in the smart home scenario. In addition, it will act as a cluster head for the entire smart home setup. Moreover, the present research work proposes the plan of a low energy and high throughput and various levelled cluster‐based directing convention for smart home sensor organize application. Proposed protocol performs dynamic cluster head choice in light of various node qualities like node enduring energy, remoteness of the node from the link (sink), and average distance of the node from various neighbor nodes. Cluster head appropriation is even and brings about upgraded organization lifetime. Sensor nodes process the sense information utilizing nearby on‐board processors and exclude the repetitive information from transmission. In the final section, the energy level and the through put can be compared with the LEACH for getting a better understanding. The simulation results of the proposed technique clarify the energy consumed and the energy remaining in the stream. The energy will be measured in Joules. Moreover, the dead node will be tracked and intimated through our proposed work. The packet delivery and the delayed process of each and every node will be discussed in the proposed simulation result. The energy level remained will be calculated in Joules measurement. The SEP level will be more when compared with LEACH protocol. The energy level will be improved in case of SEP as 5, 10, 15, and 20 J/ ms.
Ant colony optimization‐induced route optimization for enhancing driving range of electric vehicles
Authors: Manogaran Gunasekaran , Shakeel P. Mohamed , Priyan R Vishnu , Chilamkurti Naveen , Srivastava Abhishekh
Published: June 2019

Electric vehicles (EVs) are the emerging solution for pollution‐free transportation systems in the modern era. Battery‐operated motor‐powered electric vehicles serve the purpose of transportation with in‐time recharging ability. Routing and traversing locations using EVs demand optimal route selection for retaining delay and power of the vehicle. This manuscript proposes a fitness‐ant colony optimization (FACO)–based route optimization for improving the driving range of EVs. FACO works in two phases: conditional route discovery and range‐sustained traversing to control delay and to deprive EV failures because of earlier power drain. In range‐sustained phase, the fitness of the traversing route is framed by considering the inputs of power and travel time of the EV for ensuring construction of optimal touring paths. The EVs are directed to traverse the paths defined through ACO, after which the available paths are further attuned to identify the most efficient route depending on the braking and battery power of the vehicle. This optimization balances both power and its variants along with travel time for improving the driving range of the EV before it actually drains out. The optimization technique is assessed using arbitrary road and delivery point simulation with real‐time configurations to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Experimental results demonstrate the consistency of the proposed FACO by increasing driving distance and delivery point visits. This optimization also achieves lesser power depletion retaining higher charging level with lesser waiting time.
Effects of imperfect channel sensing and estimation on the performance of cognitive radio systems
Authors: Abd El‐Hamid Zahraa , Hassan Emad S. , Zekry Abdelhalim A. , Elagooz Salah S. , Samir Moataz , Abd El‐Samie Fathi E.
Published: June 2019

In realistic scenarios of cognitive radio (CR) systems, imperfect channel sensing may occur due to false alarms and miss detections. Channel estimation between the secondary user transmitter and another secondary user receiver is another challenge in CR systems, especially for frequency‐selective fading channels. In this context, this paper presents a study of the effects of imperfect channel sensing and channel estimation on the performance of CR systems. In particular, different methods of channel estimation are analyzed under channel sensing imperfections. Initially, a CR system model with channel sensing errors is described. Then, the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm is implemented in order to learn the channel fading coefficients. By exploiting the pilot symbols and the detected symbols at the secondary user receiver, we can estimate the channel coefficients. We further compare the proposed EM estimation algorithm with different estimation algorithms such as the least squares (LS) and linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE). The expressions of channel estimates and mean squared errors (MSE) are determined, and their dependencies on channel sensing uncertainty are investigated. Finally, to reduce the complexity of EM algorithm, a sub‐optimal algorithm is also proposed. The obtained results show that the proposed sub‐optimal algorithm provides a comparable bit error rate (BER) performance with that of the optimal one yet with less computational complexity.
Sensitivity and specificity of detection methods for erythropoietin doping in cyclists
Authors: Heuberger Jules A.A.C. , van Eenoo Peter , Rotmans Joris I. , Gal Pim , Stuurman Frederik E. , Post Titiaan E. , Daniels Johannes M.A. , Ram Herman , de Hon Olivier , Burggraaf Jacobus , Cohen Adam F.
Published: June 2019

Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) is used as doping a substance. Anti‐doping efforts include urine and blood testing and monitoring the athlete biological passport (ABP). As data on the performance of these methods are incomplete, this study aimed to evaluate the performance of two common urine assays and the ABP. In a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled trial, 48 trained cyclists received a mean dose of 6000 IU rHuEPO (epoetin β) or placebo by weekly injection for eight weeks. Seven timed urine and blood samples were collected per subject. Urine samples were analyzed by sarcosyl‐PAGE and isoelectric focusing methods in the accredited DoCoLab in Ghent. A selection of samples, including any with false presumptive findings, underwent a second sarcosyl‐PAGE confirmation analysis. Hematological parameters were used to construct a module similar to the ABP and analyzed by two evaluators from an Athlete Passport Management Unit. Sensitivity of the sarcosyl‐PAGE and isoelectric focusing assays for the detection of erythropoietin abuse were 63.8% and 58.6%, respectively, with a false presumptive finding rate of 4.3% and 6%. None of the false presumptive findings tested positive in the confirmation analysis. Sensitivity was highest between 2 and 6 days after dosing, and dropped rapidly outside this window. Sensitivity of the ABP was 91.3%. Specificity of the urine assays was high; however, the detection window of rHuEPO was narrow, leading to questionable sensitivity. The ABP, integrating longitudinal data, is more sensitive, but there are still subjects that evade detection. Combining these methods might improve performance, but will not resolve all observed shortcomings.
Quantitative PCR primer design affects quantification of dsRNA‐mediated gene knockdown
Authors: Onchuru Thomas Ogao , Kaltenpoth Martin
Published: June 2019

RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful tool for studying functions of candidate genes in both model and nonmodel organisms and a promising technique for therapeutic applications. Successful application of this technique relies on the accuracy and reliability of methods used to quantify gene knockdown. With the limitation in the availability of antibodies for detecting proteins, quantitative PCR (qPCR) remains the preferred method for quantifying target gene knockdown after dsRNA treatment. We evaluated how qPCR primer binding site and target gene expression levels affect quantification of intact mRNA transcripts following dsRNA‐mediated RNAi. The use of primer pairs targeting the mRNA sequence within the dsRNA target region failed to reveal a significant decrease in target mRNA transcripts for genes with low expression levels, but not for a highly expressed gene. By contrast, significant knockdown was detected in all cases with primer pairs targeting the mRNA sequence extending beyond the dsRNA target region, regardless of the expression levels of the target gene. Our results suggest that at least for genes with low expression levels, quantifying the efficiency of dsRNA‐mediated RNAi with primers amplifying sequences completely contained in the dsRNA target region should be avoided due to the risk of false‐negative results. Instead, primer pairs extending beyond the dsRNA target region of the mRNA transcript sequences should be used for accurate and reliable quantification of silencing efficiency.
Engineered Nanomaterial Assisted Signal‐amplification Strategies for Enhancing Analytical Performance of Electrochemical Biosensors
Authors: Kumar Ashutosh , Purohit Buddhadev , Maurya Pawan Kumar , Pandey Lalit Mohan , Chandra Pranjal
Published: June 2019

The design and development of modern biosensors for sensitive and selective detection of various biomarkers is important in diversified arenas including healthcare, environment, and food industries etc. The requirement of more robust and reliant biosensors lead to the development of various sensing modules. The nanomaterials having specific optical, electrical, and mechanical strength can pave the way towards development of ultrafast, robust, and miniaturized modules for biosensors. It can provide not only the point‐of‐care applicability but also has tremendous commercial as well as industrial justification. In order to improve the performance of the sensor systems, various nanostructure materials have been readily studied and applied for development of novel biosensors. In the last few years, researchers are engaged on harnessing the unique atomic and molecular properties of advance‐engineered materials including carbon nanotubes, graphene nanosheets, metal nanoparticles, metal oxide nanoparticles, and their nano‐conjugates. In view of such recent developments in nanomaterial engineering, the current review has been formulated emphasizing the role of these materials in surface engineering, biomolecule conjugation, and signal amplification for development of various ultrasensitive and robust biosensors having commercial as well as industrial viability. Attention is given on the electrochemical biosensors incorporating various nanomaterials and their conjugates. Importance of nanomaterials in the analytical performance of the various biosensor has also been discussed. To put a perceptive insights on the importance of various nanomaterials, an extended table is incorporated, which includes probe design, analyte, LOD, and dynamic range of various electrochemical biosensors.
Seismic vulnerability of roof systems combining URM gable walls and timber diaphragms
Authors: Tomassetti Umberto , Correia António A. , Graziotti Francesco , Penna Andrea
Published: June 2019

Typical low‐rise masonry buildings consist of unreinforced masonry (URM) walls covered with various timber roof configurations generally supported or finished by masonry gables. Post‐earthquake observations and experimental outcomes highlighted the large vulnerability of the URM gables to the development of overturning mechanisms, both because of the inertial out‐of‐plane excitation and the in‐plane timber diaphragm deformability.

This paper presents the static and dynamic experimental seismic performance of three full‐scale roofs tested via quasi‐static cyclic and shake table tests. Two of them were tested as part of a whole full scale one‐storey and two‐storey building.

A single‐degree‐of‐freedom (SDOF) numerical model is calibrated against experimental data and proposed for the analysis of this roof typology's dynamic behaviour. Several sets of analyses were conducted to assess the vulnerability of these structural components and to study the effect of the whole building's characteristics (eg, number of storeys and structural stiffness and strength) on the seismic performance of this roof typology.
Water Quality Monitoring to Support Cumulative Effects Assessment and Decision Making in the Mackenzie Valley, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Wong Lindsay , Noble Bram , Hanna Kevin
Published: June 2019

Project proponent- and government-led environmental monitoring are required to identify, understand, and manage cumulative effects (CE), yet such monitoring initiatives are rarely mutually supportive. Notwithstanding the need for a more integrated and complementary approach to monitoring, monitoring efforts are often less effective than intended for addressing CE. This paper examines current monitoring programs in the Mackenzie Valley, Northwest Territories, Canada, based on 7 attributes: consistency, compatibility, observability, detectability, adaptability, accessibility, and usability. Results indicate a tenuous link between and across proponent-led monitoring requirements under project-specific water licenses and government-led monitoring of regional baseline conditions. There is some consistency in what is monitored, but data are often incompatible, insufficient to understand baseline change, not transferable across projects or scales, inaccessible to end users, and ultimately unsuitable to understanding CE. Lessons from the Mackenzie Valley highlight the need for improved alignment of monitoring efforts across programs and scales, characterized by a set of common parameters that are most useful for early detection of cumulative change and supporting regulatory decisions at the project scale. This alignment must be accompanied by more open and accessible data for both proponents and regulators, while protecting the sensitivity of proprietary information. Importantly, there must be conceptual guidance for CE, such that the role of monitoring is clear, providing the types of CE questions to be asked, identifying the hypotheses to be tested, and ensuring timely and meaningful results to support regulatory decisions. © 2019 SETAC
Lens cholesterol biosynthesis inhibition: A common mechanism of cataract formation in laboratory animals by pharmaceutical products
Authors: Aleo Michael D. , Doshna Colleen M. , Baltrukonis Daniel , Fortner Jay H. , Drupa Cynthia A. , Navetta Kimberly A. , Fritz Carol A. , Potter David M. , Verdugo Maria E. , Beierschmitt William P.
Published: June 2019

CJ‐12,918, a 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO) inhibitor, caused cataracts during a 1‐month safety assessment studies in rats whereas the structurally similar ZD‐2138 was without effect. For CJ‐12,918 analogs, blocking different sites of metabolic liability reduced (CJ‐13,454) and eliminated (CJ‐13,610) cataract formation in both rats and dogs. Using this chemical series as a test set, models and mechanisms of toxicity were first explored by testing the utility of ex vivo rat lens explant cultures as a safety screen. This model overpredicted the cataractogenic potential of ZD‐2138 due to appreciably high lens drug levels and was abandoned in favor of a mechanism‐based screen. Perturbations in lens sterol content, from a decline in lathosterol content, preceded cataract formation suggesting CJ‐12,918 inhibited lens cholesterol biosynthesis (LCB). A 2‐day bioassay in rats using ex vivo LCB assessments showed that the level of LCB inhibition was correlated with incidence of cataract formation in animal studies by these 5‐LO inhibitors. Thereafter, this 2‐day bioassay was applied to other pharmaceutical programs (neuronal nitric oxide synthase, sorbitol dehydrogenase inhibitor, squalene synthetase inhibitor and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1 inhibitors/D4 antagonists) that demonstrated cataract formation in either rats or dogs. LCB inhibition >40% was associated with a high incidence of cataract formation in both rats and dogs that was species specific. Bioassay sensitivity/specificity were further explored with positive (RGH‐6201/ciglitazone/U18666A) and negative (tamoxifen/naphthalene/galactose) mechanistic controls. This body of work over two decades shows that LCB inhibition was a common mechanism of cataract formation by pharmaceutical agents and defined a level of inhibition >40% that was typically associated with causing cataracts in safety assessment studies typically ≥1 month.
Temperature‐dependent structure and compressive mechanical behavior of alginate/polyethylene oxide–poly(propylene oxide)–poly(ethylene oxide) hydrogels
Authors: Quah Suan P. , Nykypanchuk Dmytro , Bhatia Surita R.
Published: June 2019

We report the structural and mechanical behavior of multicomponent hydrogels comprising the commercial poly(ethylene oxide)–poly(propylene oxide)–poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer F127 and alginate. Previous studies on this system have shown thermoreversible behavior in shear rheology. Here we explore the properties of these materials under compression and large deformations, relevant to applications such as wound dressings that require mechanical robustness. For gels with lower F127 concentration, we find that the stiffness of the gels can be ascribed to the alginate network, and that the Young's modulus and fracture stress do not strongly depend on temperatures. However, for gels with an F127 concentration of 30 wt %, the Young's modulus is enhanced at higher temperatures. Under large deformations, the fracture stress and fracture strain of the materials can be independently varied using the alginate and F127 concentrations, respectively; without the trade‐off in these properties that is often observed in rigid polymer networks. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering shows a power‐law dependence scattering intensity on q arising from the alginate network and scattering peaks consistent with rearranging micelles. For gels with lower F127 concentrations, we find a disordered–body‐centered cubic (BCC)‐face‐centered cubic (FCC) progression of states with temperature, and a BCC/FCC mixture for gels with higher F127 concentrations.
Construction of a circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network to explore the pathogenesis and treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Xiao Yuwu
Published: June 2019

Background

Many studies focusing on circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently been published. However, a large number of circRNAs remain to be explored. This study was designed to discover new circRNAs and investigate their potential roles in the pathogenesis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Methods

A combination of gene chip analysis and bioinformatic methods was utilized to reveal new circRNAs and their possible mechanisms in PDAC. A circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network was established based on the results of differential analyses and interaction predictions. Promising drugs for treating PDAC were determined by connectivity map (CMap) analysis.

Results

Expression profile data were collected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and integration of differentially expressed circRNAs (DECs) from two gene chips using the RobustRankAggreg method revealed 10 DECs. The microRNA (miRNA) response elements of these 10 DECs were predicted. The predicted miRNAs and differentially expressed miRNAs were intersected, and 12 overlapping miRNAs were acquired. Next, 2908 miRNA target mRNAs and 1187 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PDAC were identified and combined, revealing 118 overlapping mRNAs. A protein‐protein interaction network was constructed with the 118 mRNAs, and four hub genes (CDH1, SERPINE1, IRS1 and FYN) were identified. Using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis, survival analyses were conducted for the four hub genes, and SERPINE1 and FYN were found to be significantly associated with PDAC patient survival. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that these four hub genes are closely associated with certain cancer‐related biological functions and pathways. In addition, CMap analysis based on the four hub genes was performed to screen potential therapeutic agents for PDAC, and three bioactive chemicals (celastrol, 5109870 and MG‐132) were discovered.

Conclusions

The results of this study further our understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of PDAC from the perspective of the circRNA‐related competing endogenous RNA network.
Study of composition and structure of aluminum phosphate binder
Authors: Wei Huixian , Wang Tongjun , Zhang Qiang , Jiang Yanwei , Mo Chenghao
Published: June 2019

In this article, theoretical analysis and different testing techniques were used to study the reaction pathways and synthesized products of phosphoric acid and aluminum hydroxide at different Al/P molar ratios. The results show that: (a) When the molar ratio of phosphoric acid/aluminum hydroxide is 1:3, the reaction will produce stoichiometric aluminum dihydrogen phosphate (Al(H2PO4)3); (b) when Al(OH)3 is excessive, an intermediate, monohydroxy aluminum dihydrogen phospate (HO‐Al‐(H2PO4)2), will appear, which is unstable and will continue to react according to two reaction pathways, one is intramolecular dehydration to form phosphoric acid hydrogen‐dihydrogen aluminum diphosphate (H2PO4)Al(HPO4); the other is intermolecular dehydration cross‐linking to form a polymeric macromolecular aluminum phosphate H‐((HPO4)(H2PO4)Al‐O‐HPO4‐Al(H2PO4)‐O)‐
nH. The ratio of the two pathways is affected by the excess of Al(OH)3. When the excess of Al(OH)3 continues to increase, the ratio of the second reaction path begins to increase and the viscosity of the product gradually increases. Adhesion experiments show that the aluminum dihydrogen phosphate has the best bonding performance benefiting from its lower viscosity.
Impact of different Streptococcus pneumoniae on the secretion of interleukin and adhesin from THP‐1 monocytes
Authors: Ren Ping , Zhang Jin , Yu Lianhua , Qu Ying , Jiang Xinyu , Zhou Yixia , Hu Dakang , Gao Chunyan
Published: June 2019

Background

To investigate the secretion of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐8, and soluble intercellular adhesin molecule 1 (sICAM‐1) from THP‐1 monocytes stimulated by different Streptococcus pneumoniae (S pneumoniae) strains.

Methods

Fifty‐eight strains of S pneumoniae were collected: ATCC49619, 23 from sputum (sd‐SP), 23 from blood (bd‐SP), and 11 from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF; cd‐SP). Such strains were cultured and suspended at 0.5 McFarland. THP‐1 monocytes were cultured and resuspended at 5.0 × 108/L, which were stimulated by S pneumoniae for 4, 8, and 12 hours, respectively. The suspensions were analyzed for IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐8, and sICAM‐1 using an ELISA method. The data were assayed with SPSS 19.0.

Results

Contrary to IL‐10, the concentrations of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and sICAM‐1 all increased first and then decreased. IL‐1β and sICAM‐1 levels in the ATCC49619 group were both higher than all the clinical S pneumoniae groups (sd‐SP, bd‐SP, and cd‐SP), IL‐6 and IL‐8 versa, and IL‐10 equal. The difference among clinical S pneumoniae groups lay only in sICAM‐1. cd‐SP group showed lower sICAM‐1 concentrations than sd‐SP and bd‐SP groups at both 4 and 8 hours. However, they became equal at 12 hours.

Conclusions

The secretion summit is 8 hours for IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and sICAM‐1, bottom for IL‐10. Different clinical S pneumoniae strains show similar ability to induce THP‐1 cells secreting interleukins. However, cd‐SP induces THP‐1 cells secreting lower sICAM‐1 than sd‐SP and bd‐SP, which may in turn facilitate its invasion into CSF.
Chronic, Active Inflammation in Patients With Failed Total Knee Replacements Undergoing Revision Surgery
Authors: Paish Hannah L. , Baldock Thomas Edward , Gillespie Colin S. , del Carpio Pons Alicia , Mann Derek A. , Deehan David J. , Borthwick Lee A. , Kalson Nicholas S.
Published: June 2019

Chronic pain and restricted knee motion is a significant problem following the total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The molecular pathogenesis of pain post‐TKA is not known and no targeted therapeutic intervention is available. The aim of this study was to investigate whether pro‐inflammatory mediators are elevated in revision knee patients, indicating an active, ongoing inflammatory process that may contribute to pain. Twelve key markers (pro‐inflammatory cytokines granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor [GM‐CSF], interleukin 5 [IL‐5], IL‐8 and IL‐10, chemokines CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, and CCL13, mediators of angiogenesis Flt‐1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and cell migration vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1) were measured in knee tissue and synovial fluid (SF) from primary TKA (n = 29) and revision patients (n = 32). Indications for surgery were osteoarthritis (OA) for primary TKA, and component loosening (n = 11), stiffness (n = 11), laxity pattern (n = 8), or progression of OA in patella resurfacing (n = 3) for revision surgery. Pain levels (WOMAC score) were higher in revision than primary patients (p ≤ 0.05). Time from primary to revision ranged from 8 months to 30 years (median 10 years). All markers were elevated in revision TKA; there was no trend toward decreasing levels with greater time from primary surgery for any marker studied in SF. Similar results were seen in knee tissue. We found no differences comparing indications for revision surgery (p ≥ 0.05). The elevation of inflammatory mediators in painful post‐TKA knees requiring revision suggests active, chronic inflammation. Characterization of upregulated markers provides rationale for targeted therapy, even many years from the primary surgery. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 37:2316–2324, 2019
Reducing Hospitalizations and Costs: A Home Health Nutrition‐Focused Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Riley Katie , Sulo Suela , Dabbous Firas , Partridge Jamie , Kozmic Sarah , Landow Wendy , VanDerBosch Gretchen , Falson Mary Kay , Sriram Krishnan
Published: June 2019

Background

Identification and treatment of malnutrition across the care continuum can help prevent illness onset or relapse and maximize the effectiveness of other medical treatments. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a nutrition‐focused quality improvement program (QIP) conducted in a home health agency (HHA) on hospitalization rates and healthcare costs incurred over 90 days.

Methods

This was a multisite, pre‐post QIP implemented at 2 branches of an Illinois‐based HHA. The QIP included 1546 patients who were (1) at‐risk or malnourished hospitalized patients discharged to the HHA, (2) referred by a physician during an outpatient visit, or (3) enrolled in the HHA through a skilled nursing facility. A historic (n = 7413 patients) and concurrent group (n = 5235) of patients were used for comparisons. Propensity score matching was used to account for imbalances in patient characteristics.

Results

The QIP led to reduced relative risk of hospitalization post‐enrollment to the QIP by 24.3%, 22.8%, and 18.3% at 30, 60, and 90 days, respectively, when compared with the historic group, and by 18.2%, 16.2%, and 12.1% when compared with the concurrent group. Total cost savings from reduced 90‐day healthcare resource utilization was $2,318,894, or $1500 per patient treated.

Conclusions

Rates of hospitalization and healthcare resources can be significantly reduced through the implementation of a nutrition‐focused QIP delivering oral nutritional supplements in home health settings for adults at‐risk/malnourished. These results highlight the importance of nutrition as a strategy for HHAs and other post‐acute care institutions to improve patients' health outcomes and generate cost savings.
Reconstruction of coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering signals generated by means of laser pulses with asymmetric amplitude and phase
Authors: Marrocco Michele
Published: June 2019

Time and frequency asymmetries in ultrashort chirped laser fields might appear as a consequence of dispersive propagation, pulse shaping techniques, or generation of auxiliary light pulses needed in nonlinear optics. Here, we try to find an answer to the question of how to solve analytically coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) under asymmetric conditions of chirped femtosecond laser pulses. The approach breaks in two parts. One for the field amplitudes and the other for the phases. The former revolves around Gaussian dependences that, besides being rather common in ultrashort laser physics, can be arranged and mixed to reproduce spectrally asymmetric laser amplitudes. The latter is limited to field phases with cubic frequency dependence (i.e., second‐order chirp) whose asymmetry is simulated by adding a linear term to the quadratic phase. Both approximations for amplitudes and phases of the three laser pulses are mandatory to guarantee the solution to the complexity posed by the CARS problem. Comparisons with known experimental and numerical results support the validity of the model.
Application of low‐wavenumber Raman spectroscopy to the analysis of human teeth
Authors: Bērziņš Kārlis , Sutton Joshua J. , Loch Carolina , Beckett Deanna , Wheeler Benjamin J. , Drummond Bernadette K. , Fraser‐Miller Sara J. , Gordon Keith C.
Published: June 2019

Low‐wavenumber Raman spectroscopy is demonstrated for its potential to analyse mineralization abnormalities in human teeth. Four different dental samples were analysed in this study, denoted as healthy control, mild hypomineralization, enamel caries, and AI (severely degraded due to Amelogenesis imperfecta). All specimens were imaged using principal component analysis. The spectra from low‐ wavenumber and midwavenumber regions were simultaneously collected allowing for direct comparison between the two regions. This approach provided a method to characterize structural and chemical variation within samples. Structurally different hydroxyapatite was found to be present in the surface and bulk of the enamel. The thin outer layer of the enamel contained the most structurally ordered mineral. The obtained Raman images enabled characterization and comparison of lesion domains as well as relative hydroxyapatite abundances across all dental samples.
A joint experimental and theoretical Raman study on the interactions of pyridine adsorbed on chemically pure Ag18 clusters
Authors: An Pan , Wu Haiming , Pembere Anthony M.S. , Luo Zhixun
Published: June 2019

The interaction of pyridine–Ag has been a hot topic since the finding of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering; however, there is still challenge to accurately evaluate the interactions within nano‐systems. Here we have synthesized chemically pure Ag18 nanoclusters by a facile method based on laser ablation in liquid and conducted a joint experimental and theoretical Raman spectroscopic study for pyridine adsorbed on the specific‐sized Ag clusters. As a result, altered Raman feature for the pyridine‐Ag18 system in contrast to pure pyridine is observed shedding light on the charge‐transfer interactions between pyridine and Ag. Utilizing natural population analysis, we studied the charge distribution before and after pyridine adsorbed on the Ag18 cluster. Also, we calculated static polarizability components and isotropic polarizability of pyridine and the pyridine‐Ag18 complex and studied the donor‐acceptor orbital overlaps via natural bond orbital analysis, charge decomposition analysis, electron density difference analysis, and density of state analysis. Such a comprehensive and semiquantitative study provides firm evidence for the chemical mechanism in surface‐enhanced Raman scattering theory.
Controlling Release Kinetics of Payloads from Polymer Conjugates by Hydrophobicity
Authors: Seidi Farzad , Couffon Antoine , Prawatborisut Mongkhol , Crespy Daniel
Published: June 2019

Polymers conjugated with active molecules are useful for controlled delivery of corrosion inhibitors, phytosanitary products, and drugs. To avoid detrimental side effects, active molecules need to be selectively released upon specific external stimuli. Imine groups are highly acid‐labile linkages that are usually hydrolyzed in a few hours even in neutral medium, which can be detrimental when slow release of payloads is needed. Herein, release kinetics are adjusted by controlling hydrophobicity of pH‐responsive polymers. 5‐(Aminomethyl)‐8‐hydroxyquinoline (AM8HQ), an effective corrosion inhibitor, is conjugated via imine linkage to aldehyde pendant groups in three different copolymers. Release kinetics of AM8HQ from polymer nanoparticles are investigated in acidic and neutral media. Very fast release from polymethacrylate‐based and slow release from polystyrene‐based polymer conjugates clearly show that adjusting the hydrophobicity of the polymer backbone is an effective synthetic strategy to control the cleavage rate of highly labile imine bonds.
A case for resource‐based view and competitive advantage in banking
Authors: Donnellan John , Rutledge Wanda L.
Published: June 2019

This paper discusses the importance of the strategic planning process and presents a case study on JPMorgan Chase and how the resource‐based view (RBV) was used to align their resources with the overall strategy of the organization in achieving their goal of becoming the top nationally ranked commercial bank in the Unites States. This required JPMorgan Chase to implement strategic changes to their internal and external environment utilizing their resources and competencies. The objective of this paper is to provide a theoretical and practical insight of RBV on the “what happened” aspect of JPMorgan Chase and then discuss their ability to achieve and maintain competitive advantage.
AMHCA launches new credentialing, CE office for clinical MH counselors
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2019

As members of the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) prepare to embark on their annual conference this week, officials have announced plans to launch a new credentialing and continuing education initiative and release a new guide that addresses key components of the clinical mental health counseling profession.
Support needed to address suicide risk of older adults in LTC
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2019

Interventions are needed to support the emotional health and address suicide risk of older adults transitioning into or living in long‐term care (LTC) facilities, according to what the authors are calling the most comprehensive study on the topic. The new research was published online June 14 in JAMA Network Open.
NASMHPD celebrates 60 years
Authors: Hepburn Brian
Published: June 2019

It is an exciting year for the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors (NASMHPD) as we recognize and celebrate our 60th anniversary. We have been working on many issues to improve the mental health of persons in our country.
Numerical analysis nonlinear multi‐term time fractional differential equation with collocation method via fractional B‐spline
Authors: Ramezani Mohammad
Published: June 2019

In this work, we present numerical analysis for nonlinear multi‐term time fractional differential equation which involve Caputo‐type fractional derivatives for
. The proposed method is based on utilization of fractional B‐spline basics in collocation method. The scheme can be readily obtained efficient and quite accurate with less computational work numerical result. The proposal approach transform nonlinear multi‐term time fractional differential equation into a suitable linear system of algebraic equations which can be solved by a suitable numerical method. The numerical experiments will be verify to demonstrate the effectiveness of our method for solving one‐ and two‐dimensional multi‐term time fractional differential equation.
Schrödinger‐Poisson system with Hardy‐Littlewood‐Sobolev critical exponent
Authors: Su Yu , Wang Li , Han Tao
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we consider the following Schrödinger‐Poisson system:

urn:x-wiley:mma:media:mma5694:mma5694-math-0001
where parameters α,β∈(0,3),λ>0,
,
, and
are the Hardy‐Littlewood‐Sobolev critical exponents. For α<β and λ>0, we prove the existence of nonnegative groundstate solution to above system. Moreover, applying Moser iteration scheme and Kelvin transformation, we show the behavior of nonnegative groundstate solution at infinity. For β<α and λ>0 small, we apply a perturbation method to study the existence of nonnegative solution. For β<α and λ is a particular value, we show the existence of infinitely many solutions to above system.
Fast and accurate algorithm for cavities reconstruction in an elasticity problem
Authors: Hrizi Mourad , Hassine Maatoug , Abdelwahed Mohamed , Chorfi Nejmeddine
Published: June 2019

The aim of this work is to reconstruct the location and geometry of a cavity
embedded in a linear isotropic material Ω via an exterior boundary measurement of the displacement field. The considered problem is governed by the linear elasticity system. This inverse problem of geometry reconstruction (ie, location and shape) is formulated as a topology optimization one and solved by minimizing a Kohn‐Vogelius type functional with the help of the topological sensitivity method. Some numerical results are presented using a noniterative geometric algorithm.
T1ρ‐based dynamic glucose‐enhanced (DGEρ) MRI at 3 T: method development and early clinical experience in the human brain
Authors: Herz Kai , Lindig Tobias , Deshmane Anagha , Schittenhelm Jens , Skardelly Marco , Bender Benjamin , Ernemann Ulrike , Scheffler Klaus , Zaiss Moritz
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The aim of this study was to translate the T1ρ‐based dynamic glucose‐enhanced (DGEρ) experiment from ultrahigh magnetic field strengths to a clinical field strength of 3 T. Although the protocol would seem to be as simple as gadolinium‐enhanced imaging, several obstacles had to be addressed, including signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), robustness of contrast, and postprocessing, especially motion correction.

Methods

Spin‐lock based presaturation and a 3D gradient‐echo snapshot readout were optimized for 3 T with regard to robustness, chemical exchange saturation transfer effect strength, and SNR. Postprocessing steps, including dynamic B0 and motion correction, were analyzed and optimized in 7 healthy volunteers. The final protocol, including glucose injection, was applied to 3 glioblastoma patients.

Results

With appropriate postprocessing, motion‐related artifacts could be drastically reduced, and an SNR of approximately 90 could be achieved for a single dynamic measurement. In 2 patients with blood–brain barrier breakdown, a significant glucose uptake could be observed with a DGEρ effect strength in the range of 0.4% of the water signal. Thorough analysis of possible residual motion revealed that the statistical evidence can decrease when tested against pseudo effects attributed to uncorrected motion.

Conclusion

DGEρ imaging was optimized for clinical field strengths of 3 T, and a robust protocol was established for broader application. Early experience shows that DGEρ seems possible at 3 T and could not only be attributed to motion artifacts. Observed DGEρ maps showed unique patterns, partly matching with the T1‐ce tumor ring enhancement. However, effect sizes are small and careful clinical application is necessary.
The MR Cap: A single‐sided MRI system designed for potential point‐of‐care limited field‐of‐view brain imaging
Authors: McDaniel Patrick C. , Cooley Clarissa Zimmerman , Stockmann Jason P. , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The size, cost, and siting requirements of conventional MRI systems limit their availability and preclude usage as monitoring or point‐of‐care devices. To address this, we developed a lightweight MRI for point‐of‐care brain imaging over a reduced field of view (FOV).

Methods

The B0 magnet was designed with a genetic algorithm optimizing homogeneity over a 3 × 8 × 8 cm FOV and a built‐in gradient for slice selection or readout encoding. An external pair of gradient coils enables phase encoding in the other two directions and a radiofrequency (RF) coil provides excitation and detection. The system was demonstrated with high‐resolution 1D “depth profiling” and 3D phantom imaging.

Results

The lightweight B0 magnet achieved a 64‐mT average field over the imaging region at a materials cost of <$450 USD. The weight of the magnet, gradient, and RF coil was 8.3 kg. Depth profiles were obtained at high resolution (0.89 mm) and multislice rapid acquisition with refocused echoes (RARE) images were obtained with a resolution ~2 mm in‐plane and ~6‐mm slice thickness, each in an imaging time of 11 min.

Conclusion

The system demonstrates the feasibility of a lightweight brain MRI system capable of 1D to 3D imaging within a reduced FOV. The proposed system is low‐cost and small enough to be used in point‐of‐care applications.
A Proposed Standard of Obesity Care for All Providers and Payers
Authors: Dietz William H. , Gallagher Christine
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of this work is to develop a practical, tangible, measurable, and simple standard of care for the treatment of adult obesity that provides guidance for both clinical providers and community settings.

Methods

Three roundtables with relevant stakeholder groups were convened by the STOP Obesity Alliance at The George Washington University to develop the proposed standard of care.

Results

The proposed standard of care for adult obesity treatment proposes practices for the spectrum of clinical, community, and digitally based entities and for clinical providers. Coverage and payment policy standards are also provided.

Conclusions

These standards are intended to augment published guidelines developed for obesity care providers and can also be viewed as the first step to define an optimal benefit package.
Hybrid cross‐linked hydrogels as a technology platform forinvitrorelease of cephradine
Authors: Gull Nafisa , Khan Shahzad Maqsood , Butt Muhammad Taqi Zahid , Zia Saba , Khalid Syed , Islam Atif , Sajid Imran , Khan Rafi Ullah , King Martin William
Published: June 2019

Hydrogel‐based drug delivery systems can leverage therapeutically favorable upshots of drug release and found clinical uses. Hydrogels offer temporal and spatial control over the release of different therapeutic agents. Because of their tailor made controllable degradability, physical properties, and ability to prevent the labile drugs from degradation, hydrogels provide platform on which diverse physicochemical interactions with entrapped drugs cause to control drug release. Herein, we report the fabrication of novel vinyltrimethoxy silane (VTMS) cross‐linked chitosan/polyvinyl pyrrolidone hydrogels. Swelling in distilled water in conjunction with different buffer and electrolyte solutions was performed to assess the swellability of hydrogels. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis were further conducted to investigate the possible interactions between components, thermal stability, and crystallinity of as‐prepared hybrid hydrogels, respectively. In vitro time‐dependent biodegradability, antimicrobial study, and cytotoxicity were also carried out to evaluate their extensive biocompatibility and cytotoxic behavior. More interestingly, in vitro drug release study allowed for the controlled release of cephradine. Therefore, this facile strategy developed the novel biocompatible and biodegradable hybrid hydrogels, which could significantly expand the scope of these hydrogels in other biomedical applications like scaffolds, skin regeneration, tissue engineering, etc.