bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infinite-layer fluoro-nickelates as d 9 model materials
Authors: Bernardini F , Olevano V , Blase X , Cano A
Published: April 2020

We study theoretically the fluoro-nickelate series ANiF2 (A = Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs) in the tetragonal P4/mmm infinite-layer structure. We use density functional theory to determine the structural parameters and the electronic band structure of these unprecedented compounds. Thus, we predict these materials as model d 
9 systems where the Ni1 +  oxidation is realized and the low-energy physics is exclusively determined by the Ni-3d bands. Fluoro-nickelates of this class thus offer an ideal platform for the study of intriguing physics that emerges out of the special d 
9 electronic configuration, notably high-temperature unconventional superconductivity.
Nutritional evaluation of whole soybean curd made from different soybean materials based on amino acid profiles
Authors: Li Meili , Dong Hongming , Wu Dingtao , Chen Hong , Qin Wen , Liu Weiguo , Yang Wenyu , Zhang Qing
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Amino acid profiles of whole soybean curds (WSCs) and conventional soybean curds (CSCs) were comparatively studied to 1., evaluate their nutritional value and 2., study the suitable soybean material to fabricate WSCs.

Materials and Methods

Nine types of soybean materials were selected to make WSCs and CSCs. Protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) and principal component analysis were selected to perform the comparative analysis of amino acid profiles of the products.

Results

Total contents of amino acids in WSCs and CSCs were 41.24–54.87 mg/g and 27.77–36.82 mg/g. Content ranges of essential amino acids were 13.59–19.38 mg/g and 8.46–11.76 mg/g for WSCs and CSCs. The essential amino acid pattern of WSCs was basically close to amino acid pattern spectrum requirements except valine and sulfur amino acids. As a limiting amino acid, methionine represented less than 0.4 for PDCAAS in all soybean curds except WSCs made from relay-cropping Nandou12 and Nandou25.

Conclusions

The overall quality of amino acids in WSCs was higher than that in CSCs, indicating that WSCs indeed exhibited higher nutritional value than CSCs from the viewpoint of amino acid profile. WSCs with the high nutritional value could be made using Nandou25 and relay-cropping Nandou12 as materials.
Containment Instead of Refoulement: Shifting State Responsibility in the Age of Cooperative Migration Control?
Authors: Pijnenburg Annick
Published: April 2020

Containment policies whereby destination States provide funding, equipment and training to transit States that intercept refugees on their behalf suggest that destination States try to circumvent the prohibition of refoulement and raise the question to what extent destination States can avoid responsibility for violations of the rights of migrants and refugees by cooperating with transit States. Answering this question requires broadening the analysis beyond the principle of non-refoulement, including not only international human rights law, especially the right to leave and the concept of jurisdiction, but also the law of State responsibility, notably the prohibition of complicity. This article argues that, although it remains debatable whether the principle of non-refoulement applies when transit States intercept migrants and refugees on behalf of sponsoring destination States, the wider network of international law rules constrains the latter’s ability to avoid responsibility when implementing cooperative migration control policies.
Duration of peripheral intravenous catheter patency in children
Authors: Thorpe Marian , Berry Warren , Soper Juliet
Published: April 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare the impact of saline lock to running a slow continuous infusion to-keep-vein-open (TKVO) on the total time a peripheral intravenous (PIV) catheter remained patent.

Method

A retrospective chart review of all children admitted to the paediatric ward of a regional hospital in Saskatchewan December 1, 2013 through February 28, 2014. Characteristics of patients with PIV catheters were abstracted from the health records, including patient size, catheter size and site, and total time each PIV catheter spent (i) infusing therapeutic fluids or medications, (ii) running a TKVO infusion, or (iii) saline locked. The duration of catheter patency was compared with the proportion of time that TKVO infusions were run, as well as patient gender and age.

Results

During 375 admissions, there were 189 PIVs which met inclusion criteria. The proportion of nontherapeutic time a PIV catheter spent TKVO compared to saline locked did not affect the total time the PIV catheter was patent (P=0.33). Gender had no influence, but older age, a nonmodifiable factor, was associated with increased time a PIV catheter remained patent (P=0.028).

Discussion

Peripheral intravenous (PIV) catheter insertion can be a painful and traumatic procedure. On the paediatric ward of a regional hospital, TKVO infusions were not superior to saline lock for prolonging PIV catheter patency.
FLOW DYNAMICS OF BEVELED-TIP AND FLAT-TIP VITREOUS CUTTERS
Authors: Inoue Makoto , Koto Takashi , Hirakata Akito
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

To compare the flow dynamics of beveled-tip to that of flat-tip vitreous cutters.

Method:

The aspiration rates of balanced salt solution and swine vitreous were measured for 25-gauge and 27-gauge beveled-tip and flat-tip vitreous cutters. Fluorescent polymer microspheres were mixed with balanced salt solution to make the flow visible. The flow dynamics at maximal cutting rates and reflux of balanced salt solution were measured with video images of a high-speed camera.

Results:

The aspiration rates of balanced salt solution of the 25-gauge and 27-gauge beveled-tip cutters were significantly higher than that of the flat-tip cutters at 7,500 cut/min (P = 0.0001, P = 0.038, respectively). The aspiration rate of swine vitreous by the 25-gauge beveled-tip cutter was significantly higher than that of the flat-tip cutters (P = 0.006). The mean aspiration flow in front of the cutter was significantly faster for both beveled-tip than flat-tip cutters (P = 0.003, P = 0.023). The angle of the mean aspiration flow of both beveled-tip cutters was turned to the proximal side (P = 0.004, P = 0.003). The mean reflux flow of both beveled-tip cutters was significantly faster than that of the flat-tip cutters (P = 0.006, P = 0.006).

Conclusion:

The beveled-tip cutters have a greater velocity of aspirating frontal and proximal flow resulting in higher aspiration rates and greater reflux flow velocity.
Reflecting Art in Nursing Practice
Authors: Anglin Carlita , Halpin-Healy Carolyn , Rosenfeld Peri
Published: April 2020

Despite evidence of its positive impact on observation, description, empathy, and self-care, few arts-related professional development opportunities exist for nurses in practice settings. This academic medical center launched a 4-part visual arts–humanities professional development workshop for RNs to enhance their clinical skills through reflective activities and guided conversations of art. Participating RNs provided written feedback of their impressions and reflections on course content and potential personal growth. Participants reported profound changes in their self-awareness in multiple areas, and 3 consistent themes emerged: 1) seeing as enhanced observation; 2) attunement, and 3) thinking shifts. The workshop also provided respite from patient care demands for professional development and opportunities to cultivate collegial relationships among nurses from different areas and units. These findings underscore the value of the Quadruple Aim, which focuses on workplace practices that promote a sense of well-being and meaning at work. Consistent support from the chief nursing officer and nursing leadership was essential to the success of the program.
Crystallization of chiral molecular compounds: what can be learned from the Cambridge Structural Database?
Authors: Rekis Toms
Published: April 2020

A detailed study on chiral compound structures found in the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) is presented. Solvates, salts and co-crystals have intentionally been excluded, in order to focus on the most basic structures of single enantiomers, scalemates and racemates. Similarity between the latter and structures of achiral monomolecular compounds has been established and utilized to arrive at important conclusions about crystallization of chiral compounds. For example, the fundamental phenomenon of conglomerate formation and, in particular, their frequency of occurrence is addressed. In addition, rarely occurring kryptoracemates and scalemic compounds (anomalous racemates) are discussed. Finally, an extended search of enantiomer solid solutions in the CSD is performed to show that there are up to 1800 instances most probably hiding among the deposited crystal structures, while only a couple of dozen have been previously known and studied.
The influence of the ASEAN economic community on the future of the management accounting profession
Authors: Adhariani Desi
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions of Indonesian management accountants (MAs) regarding the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) – ASEAN economic community (AEC), an integration initiative in Southeast Asia, and its impact on their profession. More specifically, this study presents the perceptions on Indonesian MAs’ capabilities for facing challenges and opportunities in the AEC era, as well as identifies skills needed and training or development programmes that could support the achievement of qualification standards.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was distributed and administered by using a convenience sampling method, resulting in 191 valid responses. The respondents’ answers were then analysed quantitatively using the descriptive and regression analysis.

Findings

It was revealed that the top skills needed in the AEC era, as identified by respondents, are soft skills, technical accounting capabilities and language skills. Language capabilities and soft skills were deemed as the most lacking, and training in these areas is considered important. Skill and knowledge upgrades are needed to reap the benefits of the opportunities offered by AEC to Indonesian businesses, especially among professional accountants who will join a bigger market not limited by borders.

Research limitations/implications

Findings from this study can guide executives and national leaders in developing the capacity and capability of Indonesian MAs to face competition in the ASEAN region.

Originality/value

Although research on the AEC has been conducted in previous studies, analysis of the impact on the MA cohort has not been much explored, which creates the research gap this study wishes to fill.
Noninterventional follow‐up vs fluid bolus in RESPONSE to oliguria—The RESPONSE trial protocol and statistical analysis plan
Authors: Inkinen Nina , Selander Tuomas , Pettilä Ville , Valkonen Miia , Bäcklund Minna , Wennervirta Johanna , Pulkkinen Anni , Hästbacka Johanna , Vaara Suvi T.
Published: April 2020

Background

Oliguria is a frequent trigger for administering a fluid bolus, but the effect of fluid bolus in improving urine output is inadequately demonstrated. Here, we summarize the protocol and detailed statistical analysis plan of the randomized, controlled RESPONSE trial comparing follow‐up as the experimental group and a 500 mL crystalloid fluid bolus as the control group for oliguria in critically ill oliguric patients.

Methods

Our trial is an investigator‐initiated, randomized, controlled, pilot trial conducted in three ICUs in two centers. We aim to randomize 1:1 altogether 130 hemodynamically stable oliguric patients either to a 2‐hour follow‐up without interventions or to receive a crystalloid bolus of 500 mL over 30 minutes. The primary outcome is the change in individual urine output during the 2‐hour period compared to 2 hours preceding randomization. Doubling of the urine output is considered clinically significant. Additionally, we record the duration of oliguria, physiological and biochemical variables, adverse events, and the incidences of acute kidney injury and renal replacement therapy.

Conclusions

Oliguria is a frequent trigger for potentially harmful fluid loading. Therefore, the RESPONSE trial will give information of the potential effect of fluid bolus on oliguria in critically ill patients.

Trial registration

clinical.trials.gov, NCT02860572.
Half of children with recurrent or chronic wet cough before three years of age were symptom‐free by age seven
Authors: Sørensen Karen Galta , Mikalsen Ingvild Bruun , Neven Axel , Øymar Knut
Published: April 2020

Aim

We aimed to study the natural course of recurrent episodic and chronic wet cough in preschool children, the proportion and age of resolution, and risk factors for persistent symptoms.

Methods

Parents of children with recurrent or chronic wet cough who had attended the outpatient clinic before the age of three years during 2010‐2013 at Stavanger University Hospital, Norway, answered a questionnaire regarding clinical symptoms and current medication at a follow‐up in 2017‐2018.

Results

We invited 840 children to participate, and parents consented for 348 (41.4%) of the children. At the first outpatient visit, 171 children (58.8%) had recurrent episodic and 120 (41.2%) had chronic wet cough. At follow‐up at a median age of 82 months, 57.0% in both groups were symptom‐free, and 9.4% with episodic cough and 13.3% with chronic cough had more than mild symptoms. During the last 12 months prior to the survey, 27.2% with episodic cough and 18.6% with chronic cough had used inhaled corticosteroids.

Conclusion

Half of the preschool children with recurrent episodic or chronic wet cough outgrew their symptoms by the median age of seven years, but one in four still used inhaled corticosteroids.
Survey on screening for paediatric non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in clinical practice in Dutch hospitals
Authors: Draijer Laura G. , Haggenburg Sabine , Benninga Marc A. , Chegary Malika , Koot Bart G. P.
Published: April 2020

Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent liver disease that affects 34% of children with obesity. Besides the liver‐related morbidity, NAFLD also increases the risk of cardiometabolic diseases at adult age. Diverse screening recommendations exist on paediatric NAFLD. The aim of this study was to assess screening practices among paediatricians managing children with obesity in the Netherlands.

Methods

Between 2016 and 2017, an Internet‐based survey was sent to all 167 members of the endocrinology section of the Dutch Paediatricians Society, that includes all paediatricians involved in obesity care. Descriptive statistics (frequencies) were used to analyse responses.

Results

In total, 42/167 (25%) of the invited paediatricians responded. Thirty‐six of 42 respondents (86%) screen for NAFLD. One‐third of those do not follow any guideline. Most respondents use ALT as screening tool, with thresholds varying between 21‐80 IU/L. The majority (29/36) indicate they lack guidance on screening and follow‐up.

Conclusion

In this study sample of Dutch paediatricians, screening for paediatric NAFLD is widely, albeit not universally, performed and in a highly variable way. This underlines the need come to a uniform and comprehensive screening strategy and raise awareness about NAFLD among physicians treating children with obesity.
The timing of cognitive aid access during simulated pediatric intraoperative critical events
Authors: Clebone Anna , Watkins Scott C. , Tung Avery
Published: April 2020

Background

Many cognitive aids are formatted in a step‐by‐step fashion with the intent that the aid will be accessed at the beginning of a critical event and that key behaviors will be performed in sequence.

Aims

We hypothesized that, during simulated pediatric intraoperative critical events, anesthesia clinicians may not use cognitive aids immediately after the onset of a critical event but instead access the aid only after first performing several key behaviors.

Materials and Methods

This manuscript is a re‐analysis of previously published simulation data. The original study involved 89 clinicians participating in 143 pediatric intraoperative events divided into 6 types: arrhythmia, venous air embolus, hypoxemia, malignant hyperthermia, hypotension, and supraventricular tachycardia. For each trial involving cognitive aid use, we measured the time from event trigger to cognitive aid use, and the number and type of key behaviors performed by simulation participants prior to cognitive aid access.

Results

Cognitive aid use was sought in 66 of 93 trials where it was available. Sufficient data for this analysis were available in 65 trials. The average time from event trigger to first cognitive aid use was 258 seconds. In 62/65 trials (95%), the cognitive aid was accessed after at least one key behavior had already been performed. The time from event trigger to cognitive aid use varied by type of scenario (P = .03,df5, adjusted H 12.78), with the shortest time for “supraventricular tachycardia” (90 [66,156] seconds (median [IQR]) and the longest time for “hypoxemia” (354 [192,492] seconds).

Conclusion

In simulated critical events, anesthesia residents and student nurse anesthetists often consulted a cognitive aid only after first performing at least some key behaviors. Incorporating the possibility of delayed access into critical event cognitive aid design may facilitate the effectiveness of that aid.
The recombinant isolate of cucurbit aphid‐borne yellows virus from Brazil is a polerovirus transmitted by whiteflies
Authors: Costa Thiago M. , Inoue‐Nagata Alice K. , Vidal Andreza H. , Ribeiro Simone da G. , Nagata Tatsuya
Published: April 2020

The severe yellowing disease (amarelão) on melon plants is a serious problem in Brazil, although the causative agent remained unknown for a long time. Recently, recombinant isolates of cucurbit aphid‐borne yellows virus (CABYV) were reported as the possible causative agents of this disease on melon plants. Although aphids are known to be the vectors of the common type of CABYV isolates, almost no aphid colony was observed in the major melon fields in Brazil with high incidence of the severe yellowing disease. In contrast, whiteflies are often abundant. Based on this observation, the hypothesis of the transmission of recombinant CABYV by whiteflies was evaluated. After thorough transmission experiments, we found that this recombinant CABYV isolate was transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci MEAM1, but not by Aphis gossipii. Furthermore, the host response by whitefly‐based inoculation in cucurbits and other indicator plants showed differences in host range when compared to the common type of CABYV. Due to its transmissibility by the whitefly and the distant relationship of the P3/P5 protein to CABYV, the name “cucurbit whitefly‐borne yellows virus” is proposed for this recombinant CABYV. This is the second report of polerovirus transmission by the whitefly B. tabaci, following the report of pepper whitefly‐borne vein yellows virus.
The influence of Aspidisca cicada on nitrifying bacteria and the morphology of flocs in activated sludge
Authors: Sobczyk Mateusz , Pajdak‐Stós Agnieszka , Fiałkowska Edyta , Fyda Janusz
Published: April 2020

Crawling ciliates play important role in activated sludge as they improve flocculation and remove loosely attached bacteria from the flocs. However, there are discrepancies concerning their influence on nitrifying bacteria and nitrification efficiency. We conducted a five weeks experiment in six bioreactors simulating the Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) process using activated sludge from a plant in start‐up phase. Half of bioreactors were inoculated with dense Aspidisca cicada culture and the remaining bioreactors served as control. The density of protozoa was regularly evaluated. Artificially increased density of A. cicada did not impair nitrifying bacteria abundance nor flocs structure. On the contrary, when A. cicada abundance was the highest, the total nitrogen in effluent was significantly lower in treatment in comparison to control. Most probably nitrifying bacteria occurring in form of dense colonies or hidden inside the flocs were inaccessible for ciliates.
Polyphosphazene polymers: The next generation of biomaterials for regenerative engineering and therapeutic drug delivery
Authors: Ogueri Kenneth S. , Ogueri Kennedy S. , Allcock Harry R. , Laurencin Cato T.
Published: April 2020

The demand for new biomaterials in several biomedical applications, such as regenerative engineering and drug delivery, has increased over the past two decades due to emerging technological advances in biomedicine. Degradable polymeric biomaterials continue to play a significant role as scaffolding materials and drug devices. Polyphosphazene platform is a subject of broad interest, as it presents an avenue for attaining versatile polymeric materials with excellent structure and property tunability, and high functional diversity. Macromolecular substitution enables the facile attachment of different organic groups and drug molecules to the polyphosphazene backbone for the development of a broad class of materials. These materials are more biocompatible than traditional biomaterials, mixable with other clinically relevant polymers to obtain new materials and exhibit unique erosion with near-neutral degradation products. Hence, polyphosphazene represents the next generation of biomaterials. In this review, the authors systematically discuss the synthetic design, structure-property relationships, and the promising potentials of polyphosphazenes in regenerative engineering and drug delivery.
Embrace experimentation in biosecurity governance
Authors: Evans Sam Weiss , Beal Jacob , Berger Kavita , Bleijs Diederik A. , Cagnetti Alessia , Ceroni Francesca , Epstein Gerald L. , Garcia-Reyero Natàlia , Gillum David R. , Harkess Graeme , Hillson Nathan J. , Hogervorst Petra A. M. , Jordan Jacob L. , Lacroix Geneviève , Moritz Rebecca , ÓhÉigeartaigh Seán S. , Palmer Megan J. , van Passel Mark W. J.
Published: April 2020

We must rethink and test assumptions about relationships among biological research, security, and society
The “iron will” of the gut
Authors: Rescigno Maria
Published: April 2020

A gut-derived hormone controls iron concentrations, microbiota composition, and mucosal healing
The smallest particle collider
Authors: Feldman D. E.
Published: April 2020

A new experiment finds direct evidence for anyons in a semiconductor heterostructure
Arab women in science
Authors: bint El Hassan Sumaya
Published: April 2020

It's a common trope that Arab women lack equality of opportunity and freedom to engage with the world. The received wisdom is that they are prevented from pursuing an education and a career by religious and/or cultural restrictions. But the truth is more nuanced. Religion and culture are not the strongest determinants of Arab nations' approaches to women's education—systems and resources are. Choosing to see religion or ethnicity over economics and prosperity is both careless and damaging.
Kode Vicious Plays in Traffic
Authors: Neville-Neil George
Published: April 2020

There is no single answer to the question of how to apply software to systems that can, literally, kill us, but there are models to follow that may help ameliorate the risk. The risks involved in these systems come from three major areas: marketing, accounting, and management. It is not that it is impossible to engineer such systems safely, but the history of automated systems shows us that it is difficult to do so cheaply and quickly. The old adage, "Fast, cheap, or correct, choose two," really should be "Choose correct, and forget about fast or cheap." But the third leg of the stool here, management, never goes for that.
Effect of Saffron Extract and Crocin in Serum Metabolites of Induced Obesity Rats
Authors: Ramli Fatin Najwa , Abu Bakar Sajak Azliana , Abas Faridah , Mat Daud Zulfitri Azuan , Azlan Azrina
Published: April 2020

The effect of saffron extract (Crocus sativus L.) and its primary compound crocin was studied on an induced obesity rat model. Our study is aimed at investigating and comparing the metabolite changes in obese and obese treated with saffron extract and crocin and at improving the understanding of the therapeutic effect of saffron extract and crocin. Two different doses of saffron extracts and crocin (40 and 80 mg/kg) were incorporated in a high‐fat diet (HFD) and were given for eight weeks to the obese rats. The changes in metabolite profiles of the serum were determined using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR). Pattern recognition by multivariate data analysis (MVDA) showed that saffron extract and crocin at 80 mg/kg was the best dosage compared to 40 mg/kg. It also showed that both treatments work in different pathways, especially concerning glucose, lipid, and creatinine metabolism. In conclusion, although the pure compound, crocin, is superior to the saffron crude extract, this finding suggested that the saffron extract can be considered as an alternative aside from crocin in treating obesity.
Shrinkage Effects of Using Fly Ash instead of Fine Aggregate in Concrete Mixtures
Authors: Zhang Dongsheng , Han Pengfei , Yang Qiuning , Mao Mingjie
Published: April 2020

China is the world’s largest emitter of fly ash, an industrial by‐product of coal combustion. Motivated towards greener development, China’s engineering industries must determine how to effectively utilize this by‐product, while ensuring environmental and public safety protections. This study investigated the use of fly ash instead of fine aggregate in concrete mixtures with a focus on concrete shrinkage. A series of experiments were performed in which fly ash substitution levels, water‐binder ratios, and ambient humidities were each respectively and exclusively varied to determine changes in the concrete’s drying and autogenous shrinkages. Experimental results indicated that the substitution of fly ash consistently decreased the drying shrinkage relative to ordinary concrete; a substitution level of 25% optimally reduced the drying shrinkage by 20.81%. A substitution level of 15% decreased the autogenous shrinkage relative to ordinary concrete, whereas higher levels (25, 35, and 45%) increased it. Ambient humidities also affected the concrete shrinkage, but the water‐to‐binder ratio effects were negligible. Drying shrinkage largely occurred before 28 d, whereas autogenous shrinkage continued after 28 d. Based on these experimental results, we evaluated common theoretical shrinkage models and subsequently developed a modified shrinkage model for application to concrete containing fly ash as fine aggregate.
A Preclinical Porcine Model of Portal Vein Thrombosis in Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Zhang Rui , Lu Shenxin , Jiang Ying-yi , Ma Jing-qin , Zhang Wen , Gu Jun-ying , Wang Jian , Chen Shi-yao
Published: April 2020

Background. This study aimed at presenting a novel method of developing a porcine model of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in cirrhosis by intravenous administration of thrombin and insertion of a fibered coil. We further investigated changes of biochemical parameters, coagulation, and proinflammatory cytokine expression in the cirrhosis‐PVT group. Methods. Twelve male pigs were randomized into the control group (n = 3) and cirrhosis group (n = 9). In cirrhotic pigs, three were randomly selected to establish PVT by ultrasound‐guided percutaneous puncture of the main portal vein (MPV) followed by intravenous thrombin administration and fibered coil insertion. Thrombosis in the MPV was detected by abdominal enhanced computer tomography (CT). The changes of hepatic function, coagulation system, and inflammation cytokines were compared among normal, cirrhosis, and cirrhosis with PVT groups. Results. As manifested by the presence of a filling defect in MPV on portal venous‐phase CT angiography, fibrin thrombi were formed in the MPV in cirrhotic pigs within one week and persisted for four weeks. Five weeks after surgery, abnormal liver functions occurred in association with PVT formation in cirrhosis. Both coagulation and thromboelastography parameters showed that cirrhosis‐PVT pigs exhibited a procoagulant state through hyperfunction of platelets and clotting factors. Interleukin 6 (IL‐6) as a potential inflammatory marker stimulated PVT‐mediated inflammation activation in cirrhosis. Conclusions. Our study provides in vivo evidence that intravenous injection of a coil and thrombin into MPV under interventional guided devices enables a feasible method in thrombus creation. Further exploration and validation of large‐sample cases are required to characterize utilities of this model.
Prophylactic Percutaneous Kyphoplasty Treatment for Nonfractured Vertebral Bodies in Thoracolumbar for Osteoporotic Patients
Authors: Lei Fei , He Wen , Tian Xinggui , Li Zhongyang , Zheng Lipeng , Kang Jianping , Feng Daxiong
Published: April 2020

Purpose. The occurrence of new vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) is a common complication after percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). Secondary VCFs after PKP occur predominantly in the thoracolumbar segment (T11 to L2). Prophylactic injections of cement into vertebral bodies in order to reduce new VCFs have rarely been reported. The main purpose of this study was to investigate whether prophylactically injecting cement into a nonfractured vertebral body at the thoracolumbar level (T11‐L2) could reduce the occurrence of new VCFs. Methods. From July 2011 to July 2018, PKP was performed in 86 consecutive patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) in the thoracolumbar region (T11‐L2). All patients selected underwent PKP because of existing OVCFs (nonprophylactic group). Additionally, 78 consecutive patients with fractured vertebrae in the thoracolumbar region (T11‐L2) with OVCFs underwent PKP and received prophylactic injections of cement into their nonfractured vertebrae in the thoracolumbar region (T11‐L2) (prophylactic group). The visual analog scale (VAS) scores and incidence of new VCFs after PKP were compared between the two groups. Results. The mean VAS scores improved from 8.00 ± 0.79 preoperatively to 1.62 ± 0.56 at the last follow‐up in the nonprophylactic group and improved from 8.17 ± 0.84 to 1.76 ± 0.34 in the prophylactic group (P > 0.05). In the nonprophylactic group, 21 of 86 patients (24.4%) developed new VCFs within one year after PKP, of whom 15 patients (71.4%) developed VCFs within 3 months. In the prophylactic group, 8 of 78 patients (10.3%) developed new VCFs within one year, and 6 of these 8 patients (75%) developed new VCFs within 3 months. The incidence of new VCFs was significantly higher in the nonprophylactic group than that in the prophylactic group at one year (P = 0.018), but there were no statistically significant differences at three months (P = 0.847). Conclusions. Prophylactic injections of cement into nonfractured (T11‐L2) vertebral bodies reduced the incidence of secondary VCFs after PKP in patients with OVCFs, but there was no significant difference in local back pain (VAS) scores between the two groups.
Thermal Conductivity Characteristics of Thermal Insulation Materials Immersed in Water for Cold‐Region Tunnels
Authors: Li Youyun , Sun Yongmei , Zhuang Yuan , Duan LiMin , Xie Ke
Published: April 2020

This study investigates the distribution of pore water on the basis of the measured mass moisture content after soaking the tunnel insulation material. This study also analyzes the influence of the distribution of pore water on the thermal conductivity of the material on the basis of this mass moisture content. Scanning images of phenolic and polyurethane insulation boards are obtained by computer tomography (CT). The gray volume moisture content (Gv) is deduced based on the CT scanning images, to determine the distribution of pore water (Gv is the ratio of the volume of the water sample (represented by the gray value) to the volume of the saturated water sample (represented by the gray value) which is the gray volume moisture content of the sample). The correlation between gray volume moisture content and mass moisture content is determined by comparing different algorithms of gray volume moisture content and volume moisture content. The relationship between mass moisture content and thermal conductivity can be determined using a self‐made quasi‐steady‐state tester, whereas the relationship between gray volume moisture content and thermal conductivity can be derived indirectly. Related experimental research can predict the thermal conductivity of thermal insulation materials by using a new perspective and shows the influence of pore water distribution on the thermal conductivity of materials.
The effects of photobiomodulation therapy for the treatment of dentin hypersensitivity
Authors: Araújo Erika Michele dos Santos , Lima Bárbara Fávero Araújo , Araújo Júlia Gomes Lúcio de , Rodrigues Fernanda Cristina Nogueira , Amaral Stella Ferreira do , Lago Andréa Dias Neves
Published: April 2020

Objective: This case report proposes a treatment for dentin hypersensitivity (DH) using photobiomodulation (PBT) with low power diode laser. Methods and Results: Male patient, 28 years old, reporting “dental sensitivity,” diagnosed by anamnesis and intraoral examination, with non-carious cervical lesions (NCCL) and DH on teeth 15 to 25, with different pain intensities, measured with visual analogue scale (VAS). For DH treatment, a PBT was proposed, with 808nm, 100mW, 20s and 2J of energy, applied during 3 sessions, with one-week interval and reevaluation after 30 days. After the first session, the patient reported improvement of sensitivity in all teeth, except for 15, that remained sensitive even during the reevaluation. Conclusion: PBT was effective in DH treatment, with desensitization being observed for 30 days in 90% of treated teeth.
Improving Clinical Detection of Acute Lacunar Stroke
Authors: Arba Francesco , Mair Grant , Phillips Stephen , Sandercock Peter , Wardlaw Joanna M. ,   on behalf of the Third International Stroke Trial Collaborators
Published: April 2020

Background and Purpose—

We aim to identify factors associated with imaging-confirmed lacunar strokes and improve their rapid clinical identification early after symptom onset using data from the IST-3 (Third International Stroke Trial).

Methods—

We selected patients likely to have lacunar infarcts as those presenting with: Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project lacunar syndrome; a random sample with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score <7; and recent lacunar infarct identified on imaging by IST-3 central blinded expert panel. An independent reviewer rated brain scans of this sample and classified visible infarcts according to type, size, and location. We investigated factors associated with presence of lacunar infarct on a 24 to 48 hour follow-up scan using multivariable logistic regression and calculated sensitivity and specificity of Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project alone and in combination with NIHSS score <7.

Results—

We included 568 patients (330 lacunar syndrome; 147 with NIHSS score <7; 91 with lacunar infarct on baseline imaging, numbers exclude overlaps between groups), mean (±SD) age, 73.2 (±13.6) years, 316 (56%) males, and median NIHSS score 5 (IQR, 4–8). On 24 to 48 hour scan, 138 (24%) patients had lacunar infarcts, 176 (31%) other infarct subtypes, 254 (45%) no visible infarct. Higher baseline systolic blood pressure (odds ratio, 1.01 [95% CI, 1.01–1.02]) and preexisting lacunes (odds ratio, 2.29 [95% CI, 1.47–3.57) were associated with recent lacunar infarcts. Sensitivity and specificity of lacunar syndrome was modest (58% and 45%, respectively), but adding NIHSS score <7 increased specificity (99%), positive and negative predictive values (97% and 87%, respectively).

Conclusions—

In patients presenting within 6 hours of stroke onset, adding NIHSS score <7 to Oxfordshire Community Stroke Project lacunar syndrome classification may increase specificity for identifying lacunar stroke early after stroke onset. Our findings may help selection of patients for clinical trials of lacunar stroke and should be validated externally.

Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com/
; Unique identifier: ISRCTN25765518.
The Arabic Book of the Divine Liturgies Printed in 1745 in Iași by Patriarch Sylvester of Antioch
Authors: Feodorov Ioana
Published: April 2020

The following article focuses on a printed text of the Arabic Book of the Divine Liturgies, produced in 1745 in Iași (Jassy), capital of Moldavia, by Sylvester, the Patriarch of the Greek-Orthodox Church of Antioch (1724-1766), which is comprised, together with a section of a Syriac and Arabic manuscript commentary on some Gospel passages, in MS 15 of the library of Dayr Sayyidat al-Balamand (near Tripoli, Lebanon). It is a rare copy of this early Arabic printed book, whose existence was recently established. The study encloses an outline – based on Romanian, Greek and Arabic sources – of Patriarch Sylvester’s printing activity in Iași and Bucharest in 1745-1747, a description of the Book of the Divine Liturgies (Iași, 1745) preserved in the Balamand codex, and comments on the value of this finding for future research on the printing work carried out in the Romanian Principalities, in 1701-1747, for the Arabic-speaking Christians of Ottoman Syria.
Charge-Trapping Effects Caused by Ammonia in Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Li Hong , Zhang Qing , Peng Ning , Liu Ningyi , Lee Yi Chau , Tan Ooi Kiang , Marazari Nicola , Thompson Carl V.
Published: April 2020

Hysteretic behaviors caused by low-concentration ammonia gas are found in single-walled carbon nanotube based field-effect transistors. The transfer curves are found to shift towards negative gate voltage when the gate voltage is swept forwardly upon introducing ammonia. In contrast,
no significant change in the transfer curves is observed for the backward sweeping of the gate voltage. This phenomenon is repeatable even after the devices are annealed in dry air at 200 °C for 2 hrs. Our findings can be interpreted in terms of additional charge traps induced by the adsorbed
ammonia molecules. The observed hysteretic behavior enables the devices to work as memory cells, in which the carbon nanotube field-effect transistors act as readout and ammonia molecules play roles of charge storage.
Iron Oxide Shell as the Oxidation-Resistant Layer in SmCo5@Fe2O3 Core–Shell Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Teng Xiaowei , Yang Hong
Published: April 2020

This paper presents a synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles of samarium cobalt alloys and the use of iron oxide as a coating layer to prevent the rapid oxidation of as-made Sm–Co nanoparticles. The colloidal nanoparticles of Sm–Co alloys were made in octyl ether using samarium
acetylacetonate and dicobalt octacarbonyl as precursors in a mixture of 1,2-hexadecanediol, oleic acid, and trioctylphosphine oxide (TOPO). Such Sm–Co nanoparticle could be readily oxidized by air and formed a CoO antiferromagnetic layer. Exchange biasing was observed for the surface
oxidized nanoparticles. In situ thermal decomposition of iron pentacarbonyl was used to create iron oxide shells on the Sm–Co nanoparticles. The iron oxide shell could prevent Sm–Co nanoparticles from rapid oxidation upon the exposure to air at ambient conditions.
Role of Plain Radiographs in Assessing Appropriate Placement of Orbital Implants for Repair of Floor Fractures
Authors: Nikizad Hooman , Schubert Warren
Published: April 2020

Intraoperative imaging is becoming increasingly common in repair of facial fractures. Many institutions do not have access to intraoperative advanced 3D imaging but have the capability of obtaining plain radiographs intraoperatively. At institutions where advanced 3D imaging is available, scout radiographs are usually obtained prior to a complete scan. These scout images can provide some information about the placement of radiopaque implants before a complete scan is performed. The aim of this study is to examine the correct anatomic positioning of an orbital floor implant using lateral plain radiographs. Titanium orbital fan implants were molded and secured to orbital floor of 14 adult dry skulls (7 males and 7 females). Lateral radiographs were obtained for both the left and the right orbits individually. The antero-posterior angle of inclination that the implant makes relative to the Frankfort horizontal plane was measured, and results were compared in the male versus female radiographs. The mean angle that the implant made with the Frankfort horizontal plane was 20.1±2.4° in the male orbits (95% CI 18.8-21.5°) and 22.6 ± 2.0° in the female orbits (95% CI, 21.4-23.7°). We found no statistically significant differences between the male and female angles ( P-value 0.62). For the combined specimens (i.e., 28 sides in 14 skulls), the overall mean angle was 21.4 ± 2.5° (95% CI, 20.4-22.3°). Based on these findings, the angle that the implant makes with the Frankfort horizontal plane on lateral cross-table plain radiographs can be used intraoperatively to assist the surgeon in confirming the appropriate placement of the implant.
Diversity of peripheral blood human NK cells identified by single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Smith Samantha L. , Kennedy Philippa R. , Stacey Kevin B. , Worboys Jonathan D. , Yarwood Annie , Seo Seungmae , Solloa Everardo Hegewisch , Mistretta Brandon , Chatterjee Sujash S. , Gunaratne Preethi , Allette Kimaada , Wang Ying-Chih , Smith Melissa Laird , Sebra Robert , Mace Emily M. , Horowitz Amir , Thomson Wendy , Martin Paul , Eyre Steve , Davis Daniel M.
Published: April 2020

Human natural killer (NK) cells in peripheral blood perform many functions, and classification of specific subsets has been a longstanding goal. We report single-cell RNA sequencing of NK cells, comparing gene expression in unstimulated and interleukin (IL)-2–activated cells from healthy cytomegalovirus (CMV)-negative donors. Three NK cell subsets resembled well-described populations; CD56brightCD16−, CD56dimCD16+CD57−, and CD56dimCD16+CD57+. CD56dimCD16+CD57− cells subdivided to include a population with higher chemokine mRNA and increased frequency of killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor expression. Three novel human blood NK cell populations were identified: a population of type I interferon–responding NK cells that were CD56neg; a population exhibiting a cytokine-induced memory-like phenotype, including increased granzyme B mRNA in response to IL-2; and finally, a small population, with low ribosomal expression, downregulation of oxidative phosphorylation, and high levels of immediate early response genes indicative of cellular activation. Analysis of CMV+ donors established that CMV altered the proportion of NK cells in each subset, especially an increase in adaptive NK cells, as well as gene regulation within each subset. Together, these data establish an unexpected diversity in blood NK cells and provide a new framework for analyzing NK cell responses in health and disease.
Investigating stigma attitudes towards people with mental illness among residents and house officers: an Egyptian study
Authors: Eissa Abeer M. , Elhabiby Mahmoud M. , El Serafi Doha , Elrassas Hanan H. , Shorub Eman M. , El-Madani Alaa A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Stigma is a basic component of the negative discrimination that people with mental illness experience every day. It blocks access to facilities that have been created to help people with mental illness. Furthermore, the attitudes held by people with authority (including clinical staff and officers) towards people with mental illness are likely to influence their attitude towards them and hence the experience and treatment outcome of the patients. The aim of this work is to study and compare the attitudes of Egyptian residents of different clinical specialties and house officers towards patients with mental illness. The current study aimed to study the attitudes of Egyptian medical residents and house officers towards patients with mental illness and compare between both groups. This cross-sectional comparative study was designed to assess 150 residents and 201 house officers at Ain Shams University Hospitals by using the Mental Illness Clinician Attitude Scale version 4 (MICA-4) and newly designed questions related to stigma.

Results

The study revealed that the scores of MICA questionnaire were significantly lower than the cut point for negative attitude in both residents and house officers (P < 0.0001). In addition, there was a trend of an increase in MICA scores throughout the three levels of seniority but with no statistically significant difference. Furthermore, there was no statistical significant finding regarding the majority of MICA items or stigma sheet questions across the different specialties.

Conclusion

Stigma is one of the most disabling factors that prevent people with mental illness to live a normal social and occupational life and thus receive a good quality of life and equal chance of medical health care as other non-psychiatric patients.
Executive Perspectives
Authors: Collier Rhianna
Published: April 2020

SEG's Meetings program is designed to bring together members from around the globe to discuss common threads of geophysics in numerous disciplines through a portfolio of events. This month, I want to highlight two upcoming events that are pivotal to the Meetings program. They are the 2020 SEG Annual Meeting (11–16 October 2020 in Houston, Texas) and the 2nd Annual Energy in Data Conference (21–24 February 2021 in Austin, Texas).
Estimating the overdispersion in COVID-19 transmission using outbreak sizes outside China
Authors: Endo Akira ,   Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases COVID-19 Working Group, Abbott Sam , Kucharski Adam J. , Funk Sebastian
Published: April 2020

Background: A novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has now spread to a number of countries worldwide. While sustained transmission chains of human-to-human transmission suggest high basic reproduction number R0, variation in the number of secondary transmissions (often characterised by so-called superspreading events) may be large as some countries have observed fewer local transmissions than others.

Methods: We quantified individual-level variation in COVID-19 transmission by applying a mathematical model to observed outbreak sizes in affected countries. We extracted the number of imported and local cases in the affected countries from the World Health Organization situation report and applied a branching process model where the number of secondary transmissions was assumed to follow a negative-binomial distribution.

Results: Our model suggested a high degree of individual-level variation in the transmission of COVID-19. Within the current consensus range of R0 (2-3), the overdispersion parameter k of a negative-binomial distribution was estimated to be around 0.1 (median estimate 0.1; 95% CrI: 0.05-0.2 for R0 = 2.5), suggesting that 80% of secondary transmissions may have been caused by a small fraction of infectious individuals (~10%). A joint estimation yielded likely ranges for R0 and k (95% CrIs: R0 1.4-12; k 0.04-0.2); however, the upper bound of R0 was not well informed by the model and data, which did not notably differ from that of the prior distribution.

Conclusions: Our finding of a highly-overdispersed offspring distribution highlights a potential benefit to focusing intervention efforts on superspreading. As most infected individuals do not contribute to the expansion of an epidemic, the effective reproduction number could be drastically reduced by preventing relatively rare superspreading events.