bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Mobile Phone Reminders and Recalls on Missed Immunisations among Infants in Two Health Facilities in Abakaliki, Nigeria
Authors: Eze N. C. , Azuogu B. N. , Okoronkwo I. L.
Published: November 2019

Background: Missed immunisation (MI) may contribute to low immunisation coverage in diverse settings, especially developing countries. Receipt of vaccines at the recommended ages and intervals will ensure that children are adequately protected from target diseases at all times. Immunisation reminder and recall (RR) systems are cost-effective methods of improving adherence to recommended immunisation schedules. This study, therefore, determined the effect of immunisation reminders and recalls on reducing missed immunisations in Abakaliki.

Materials and Methods: This is a quasi-experimental study conducted among caregivers of infants in rural health facilities in Abakaliki. Mile-Four and St. Vincent hospitals located in Ebonyi and Izzi Local Government Areas (LGA) respectively in Ebonyi State were selected purposively. Mile-Four was assigned intervention group and St. Vincent as control group. The sample size was determined using the formula for comparing two proportions.  Caregiver-child pair was recruited during the infants’ BCG or Pentavalent vaccines 1 immunisation visit and followed till the final scheduled immunisation visit for each child. Data was collected using a questionnaire, proforma and checklist. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 22.0 was used for analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the Research and Ethics Committee (REC) of the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (FETHA).

Results: A greater proportion of respondents in the intervention group (8.3%) missed vaccination at the 6th and 10th weeks when compared with the 4.1% and 6.9% for the above mentioned weeks respectively in the control group. In the control group, a greater proportion (22.1%) missed vaccination than the intervention group (8.9%) at the 14th week, a difference in the proportion that was significant (p=0.04). Relative to female caregivers, male caregivers are 6.2 times more likely to miss immunisation in the intervention group. They are 2.3 times more likely to miss immunisation than the female ones in the control group. Those at older age (≥30 years) are 1.2 times more likely to miss immunisation than those of younger age group.                                                                                             

Conclusion: Mobile phone reminders and recall has proven effective in reducing childhood missed immunisations and non-compliance in Abakaliki. Implementation of immunisation reminders and recall systems is therefore recommended in immunisation clinics in developing countries especially in Nigeria for immunisation timeliness and completion.
Causes of Illness and Preterm Infant Deaths in a Low Resource Setting in Southern Nigeria: A 5 Year Review
Authors: Briggs D. , Opara P. , Okpani M. , Eneh A.
Published: November 2019

Background: About 45% of deaths among under-fives occur during the neonatal period with a high contribution from preterm infant deaths. Regular evaluation of preterm deaths is important as patterns and therefore intervention may vary at different times and places.

Objectives: To determine the common causes of illness and death among preterm infants admitted to the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH), over a 5 year period.

Methods: This was a retrospective review of data of preterm babies admitted to the SCBU from 2012 – 2016. Information obtained included biodata, nature of illness, duration of admission and outcomes. Data were collated and analyzed using SPSS v20 for windows. 

Results: 3,071 babies were admitted in SCBU over the period, of which 683 (22.2%) were preterms. Of these, 421 (61.6%) were in-born while 262 (38.4%) were out-born. The male: female ratio was 0.9:1. Morbidity patterns varied with birth asphyxia (20%) ranking highest among in-borns while sepsis (21%) and neonatal jaundice (15%) were more prominent in out-borns. The overall preterm mortality rate was 24.6 % with rates being significantly higher in out-born 30.5% versus in-born 20.9% (p=0.004). Mortality was highest among low birth weight preterms. Admission rates decreased steadily over the period.

Conclusion: Birth asphyxia and sepsis were the main morbidities recorded. Mortality rates were higher among outborns. Low birth weight preterms were most affected because they were in the majority. There was a steady decline in admission rates. Improving obstetric care, neonatal resuscitation, infrastructure and subsidizing healthcare services for preterms is needful.
Hypoxaemia in Nigerian Children Presenting to the Children Emergency Ward (CHEW) of a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Boma Okoh , Tamunopriye Jaja
Published: November 2019

Aim: To determine the prevalence of hypoxaemia and predictors of signs of hypoxaemia in children with various disease conditions admitted into the CHEW of a tertiary health facility.

Place and Duration: Department of Paediatrics (Children Emergency Ward). Study was done from 1st February to 30th April 2015.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study of 129 children admitted into the CHEW with various disease conditions. Biodata and clinical examination was done in all patients.  Oxygen saturation (SpO2) was determined at admission using pulse oximeter for every sick child admitted. Hypoxaemia was defined as SpO2 less than 90%.

Results: One hundred and twenty nine children were studied.  Ages of subjects ranged between 0.08years and 17 years with a mean age of 3.06 ± 3.65 years. The mean age of 3.34 ± 3.97 years for males was higher than 2.70 ± 3.22 years for females. Thirty one (24%) children had hypoxaemia on admission with 20(64.5%) with respiratory diseases. Infants (P=.004) and children with respiratory disease (P=.047) had a significantly higher prevalence of hypoxaemia among the study group.

Chest in drawing was a common feature but grunting had the best positive predictive value of more than 80%    but with low sensitivity of 3.

Conclusion: Hypoxaemia is prevalent in children who are ill and need emergency care. Respiratory diseases and infants account for a major proportion of hypoxaemic children seen in emergency wards. Chest in drawing is a common feature from different studies; presence of grunting was highly predictive in this study although had low sensitivity.
Severe Infantile Transaldolase Deficiency
Authors: Alqoaer Khaled , Asaad Ziad , Halabi Maisa
Published: November 2019

Transaldolase TALDO deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder of the pentose phosphate pathway. It has variable presentations with poor outcome when present early in life. We present a young Saudi infant with a fatal early presentation of TALDO deficiency.
Validation of the RayStation Monte Carlo dose calculation algorithm using a realistic lung phantom
Authors: Schreuder Andries N. , Bridges Daniel S. , Rigsby Lauren , Blakey Marc , Janson Martin , Hedrick Samantha G. , Wilkinson John B.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Our purposes are to compare the accuracy of RaySearch's analytical pencil beam (APB) and Monte Carlo (MC) algorithms for clinical proton therapy and to present clinical validation data using a novel animal tissue lung phantom.

Methods

We constructed a realistic lung phantom composed of a rack of lamb resting on a stack of rectangular natural cork slabs simulating lung tissue. The tumor was simulated using 70% lean ground lamb meat inserted in a spherical hole with diameter 40 ± 5 mm carved into the cork slabs. A single‐field plan using an anterior beam and a two‐field plan using two anterior‐oblique beams were delivered to the phantom. Ion chamber array measurements were taken medial and distal to the tumor. Measured doses were compared with calculated RayStation APB and MC calculated doses.

Results

Our lung phantom enabled measurements with the MatriXX PT at multiple depths in the phantom. Using the MC calculations, the 3%/3 mm gamma index pass rates, comparing measured with calculated doses, for the distal planes were 74.5% and 85.3% for the APB and 99.1% and 92% for the MC algorithms. The measured data revealed up to 46% and 30% underdosing within the distal regions of the target volume for the single and the two field plans when APB calculations are used. These discrepancies reduced to less than 18% and 7% respectively using the MC calculations.

Conclusions

RaySearch Laboratories' Monte Carlo dose calculation algorithm is superior to the pencil‐beam algorithm for lung targets. Clinicians relying on the analytical pencil‐beam algorithm should be aware of its pitfalls for this site and verify dose prior to delivery. We conclude that the RayStation MC algorithm is reliable and more accurate than the APB algorithm for lung targets and therefore should be used to plan proton therapy for patients with lung cancer.
Implantable Neural Interfaces and Wearable Tactile Systems for Bidirectional Neuroprosthetics Systems
Authors: Cutrone Annarita , Micera Silvestro
Published: November 2019

Neuroprosthetics and neuromodulation represent a promising field for several related applications in the central and peripheral nervous system, such as the treatment of neurological disorders, the control of external robotic devices, and the restoration of lost tactile functions. These actions are allowed by the neural interface, a miniaturized implantable device that most commonly exploits electrical energy to fulfill these operations. A neural interface must be biocompatible, stable over time, low invasive, and highly selective; the challenge is to develop a safe, compact, and reliable tool for clinical applications. In case of anatomical impairments, neuroprosthetics is bound to the need of exploring the surrounding environment by fast‐responsive and highly sensitive artificial tactile sensors that mimic the natural sense of touch. Tactile sensors and neural interfaces are closely interconnected since the readouts from the first are required to convey information to the neural implantable apparatus. The role of these devices is pivotal hence technical improvements are essential to ensure a secure system to be eventually adopted in daily life. This review highlights the fundamental criteria for the design and microfabrication of neural interfaces and artificial tactile sensors, their use in clinical applications, and future enhancements for the release of a second generation of devices.
Benchmark of Simplified Time‐Dependent Density Functional Theory for UV–Vis Spectral Properties of Porphyrinoids
Authors: Batra Kamal , Zahn Stefan , Heine Thomas
Published: November 2019

Time‐dependent density functional theory is thoroughly benchmarked for the predictive calculation of UV–vis spectra of porphyrin derivatives. With the aim to provide an approach that is computationally feasible for large‐scale applications such as biological systems or molecular framework materials, albeit performing with high accuracy for the Q‐bands, the results given by various computational protocols, including basis sets, density‐functionals (including gradient corrected local functionals, hybrids, double hybrids and range‐separated functionals), and various variants of time‐dependent density functional theory, including the simplified Tamm–Dancoff approximation, are compared. An excellent choice for these calculations is the range‐separated functional CAM‐B3LYP in combination with the simplified Tamm–Dancoff approximation and a basis set of double‐ζ quality def2‐SVP (mean absolute error [MAE] of ≈0.05 eV). This is not surpassed by more expensive approaches, not even by double hybrid functionals, and solely systematic excitation energy scaling slightly improves the results (MAE ≈0.04 eV).
Rate of rhinosinusitis and sinus surgery following a minimally destructive approach to endoscopic transsphenoidal hypophysectomy
Authors: Rimmer Ryan A. , Vimawala Swar , Chitguppi Chandala , Reilly Erin K. , Graf Alexander E. , Fastenberg Judd H. , Evans James J. , Rosen Marc R. , Rabinowitz Mindy R. , Nyquist Gurston G.
Published: November 2019

Background

There remains considerable variation in the extent of sinonasal preservation during the approach for endoscopic transsphenoidal hypophysectomy (TSH). We advocate for a minimally destructive approach utilizing turbinate lateralization, small posterior septectomy, no ethmoidectomy, and preservation of nasoseptal flap (NSF) pedicles bilaterally. Due to these factors, this approach may affect the rates of postoperative rhinosinusitis. The objective of this study is to define the rates of postoperative rhinosinusitis in patients undergoing this approach.

Methods

Single institution, retrospective chart review of patients undergoing TSH from 2005 to 2018.

Results

A total of 415 patients were identified and 14% developed an episode of postoperative rhinosinusitis within 3 months. These patients were significantly more likely to have had a history of recurrent acute or chronic rhinosinusitis. Most cases were sphenoethmoidal sinusitis managed with 1 to 2 courses of antibiotics. Of patients with postoperative rhinosinusitis, most did not undergo NSF. Average follow‐up was 38 months. Six patients (1.4%) underwent post‐TSH functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Average time from TSH to FESS was 26.3 months. Two of these patients had a history of prior chronic rhinosinusitis without polyposis. Two patients underwent revision TSH for recurrent tumor as the primary indication for surgery at time of FESS. Twenty‐two–item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) scores generally increased immediately postoperatively, but frequently decreased below preoperative level by the time of last follow‐up, regardless of whether patients developed rhinosinusitis.

Conclusion

Sinonasal preservation during TSH is associated with a low rate of postoperative rhinosinusitis requiring FESS and excellent long‐term patient reported outcomes. We continue to advocate for sinonasal preservation during pituitary surgery.
The Chemical Potential of Plasmonic Excitations
Authors: Yu Sungju , Jain Prashant K.
Published: November 2019

By the photoexcitation of localized surface plasmon resonances of metal nanoparticles, one can generate reaction equivalents for driving redox reactions. We show that, in such cases, there is a chemical potential contributed by the plasmonic excitation. This chemical potential is a function of the concentration of light, as we determine from the light‐intensity‐dependent activity in the plasmon‐excitation‐driven reduction of CO2 on Au nanoparticles. Our finding allows the treatment of plasmonic excitation as a reagent in chemical reactions; the chemical potential of this reagent is tunable by the light intensity.
Separation of Bromoalkanes Isomers by Nonporous Adaptive Crystals of Leaning Pillar[6]arene
Authors: Wu Jia‐Rui , Li Bao , Yang Ying‐Wei
Published: November 2019

Haloalkanes are important chemicals in synthetic chemistry and petrochemical industry, but the separation of their isomers is a big hurdle. Herein, we report a facile energy‐efficient adsorptive separation strategy using a new class of nonporous adaptive crystals based on leaning pillar[6]arene. Desolvated perethylated leaning pillar[6]arene crystals (EtLP6) with interesting nonporous character show a preference for 1‐bromoalkane isomers over 2‐bromoalkane isomers. EtLP6 is capable of separating 1‐bromopropane, 1‐bromobutane, and 1‐bromopentane from the corresponding 1:1 (v/v) mixtures of 1/2‐positional isomers with purities from 89.6 % to 96.3 % in only one adsorption cycle. The selectivity is endowed by the different host–guest binding modes and different stabilities of EtLP6 crystalloids loaded with 1‐ and 2‐positional isomers. Significantly, the guest–adsorbed assemblies are highly stable at room temperature and EtLP6 can be reused many times without any decrease in performance.
Lewis‐Pair‐Mediated Selective Dimerization and Polymerization of Lignocellulose‐Based β‐Angelica Lactone into Biofuel and Acrylic Bioplastic
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Jun , Hong Miao
Published: November 2019

This contribution reports an unprecedentedly efficient dimerization and the first successful polymerization of lignocellulose‐based β‐angelica lactone (β‐AL) by utilizing a selective Lewis pair (LP) catalytic system, thereby establishing a versatile bio‐refinery platform wherein two products, including a dimer for high‐quality gasoline‐like biofuel (C8–C9branched alkanes, yield=87 %) and a heat‐ and solvent‐resistant acrylic bioplastic (Mnup to 26.0 kg mol−1), can be synthesized from one feedstock by one catalytic system. The underlying reason for exquisite selectivity of the LP catalytic system toward dimerization and polymerization was explored mechanistically.
Expanding the Toolbox of Metal–Phenolic Networks via Enzyme‐Mediated Assembly
Authors: Zhong Qi‐Zhi , Richardson Joseph J. , Li Shiyao , Zhang Wenjie , Ju Yi , Li Jianhua , Pan Shuaijun , Chen Jingqu , Caruso Frank
Published: November 2019

Functional coatings are of considerable interest because of their fundamental implications for interfacial assembly and promise for numerous applications. Universally adherent materials have recently emerged as versatile functional coatings; however, such coatings are generally limited to catechol, (ortho‐diphenol)‐containing molecules, as building blocks. Here, we report a facile, biofriendly enzyme‐mediated strategy for assembling a wide range of molecules (e.g., 14 representative molecules in this study) that do not natively have catechol moieties, including small molecules, peptides, and proteins, on various surfaces, while preserving the molecule's inherent function, such as catalysis (≈80 % retention of enzymatic activity for trypsin). Assembly is achieved by in situ conversion of monophenols into catechols via tyrosinase, where films form on surfaces via covalent and coordination cross‐linking. The resulting coatings are robust, functional (e.g., in protective coatings, biological imaging, and enzymatic catalysis), and versatile for diverse secondary surface‐confined reactions (e.g., biomineralization, metal ion chelation, and N‐hydroxysuccinimide conjugation).
The psychology of peacemaking: Northern Ireland, John, Lord Alderdice, and the end of the Troubles
Authors: Strozier Charles B.
Published: November 2019

The article discusses the key aspects of the psychology of peacemaking after the Troubles in Northern Ireland. These dimensions of the process include discussion of the frame, empathic listening, transforming humiliation, and good leadership. The article places particular emphasis on the role of John, Lord Alderdice, who as leader of the newly created Assembly by the Good Friday Agreement helped implement the complicated political arrangements established by the agreement. The article concludes that if the contentious parties in Northern Ireland could make peace, anyone can with the will and some luck.
High‐resolution morphology and surface photometry of KIG 685 and KIG 895 with ARGOS+LUCI using the Large Binocular Telescope
Authors: Rampazzo Roberto , Uslenghi Michela , Georgiev Iskren Y. , Cattapan Arianna , Verdes‐Montenegro Lourdes , Bonaglia Marco , Borelli Jose Luis , Busoni Lorenzo , Gäessler Wolfgang , Magrin Demetrio , Marino Antonina , Mazzei Paola , Mazzoni Tommaso , Peter Diethard , Rabien Sebastian , Ragazzoni Roberto , Rosensteiner Mathias
Published: November 2019

We aim to refine the sample of isolated early‐type galaxies in the Analysis of the interstellar Medium of Isolated Galaxies (AMIGA) catalog via high‐resolution imaging. Here, we report the result from a pilot study investigating two candidates, KIG 685 and KIG 895, in K‐band with the laser guide star and wavefront sensing facility ARGOS using the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT). Observations, obtained during the commissioning time, achieved a point spread function (PSF) of ≈0.25″. We present the data reduction and the PSF analysis from the best closed‐loop exposures to investigate the galaxies' morphological structure, including their nuclear region. We used PROFILER for the decomposition of the azimuthal 1D light distribution and GALFIT for the 2D analysis, accounting for ARGOS's PSF. KIG 685 was found to be a S0 galaxy and has been modeled with two Sérsic components representing a pseudobulge (n1D = 2.87 ± 0.21, n2D = 2.29 ± 0.10) and a disk (n1D = 0.95 ± 0.16, n2D = 0.78 ± 0.10). Nearly symmetric ring‐/shell‐like structures emerge after subtracting the GALFIT model from the image. KIG 895 shows a clear irregular arm‐like structure, in which the northern outer arm is reminiscent of a tail. The galaxy body is a disk, best fitted by a single Sérsic profile (n1D = 1.22 ± 0.1; n2D = 1.32 ± 0.12), that is, KIG 895 is a bulge‐less, very late‐type spiral. ARGOS high‐resolution images clearly showed interaction signatures in KIG 895. We suggest that the ring‐/shell‐like residuals in KIG 685, a bona fide early‐type galaxy, point toward a past accretion event.
Flavonoid Profiling Analysis by Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Min Jeuk , Seo Chan , Park Hyung‐Jin , Kim Youngbae , Lee Hyeon‐Seong , Ji Moongi , Choi Subin , Oh Songjin , Park Kyung‐Wuk , Paik Man‐Jeong
Published: November 2019

Flavonoids are secondary metabolites with antioxidant, anticancer, and anti‐inflammatory properties. However, no method has yet been reported for the simultaneous profiling analysis for flavonoids of various types. Thus, simultaneous profiling analysis of various flavonoids was performed in this study. Under optimal conditions, the developed method showed good linearity (r ≥ 0.9973) in the range 25–1000 ng/μL with a limit of detection (LOD) of 0.9–12.1 pg. and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 2.6–36.5 pg., respectively. The repeatability as a percentage of relative standard deviation (% RSD) varied from 0.5 to 5.9 (% RSD). And accuracy as a percentage of relative error (% RE) was from −11.8 to 10.5 (% RE). The validated method was applied to a solid phase extraction fraction of Orostachys japonicus (Maxim.) A. Berger. Six flavonoids of catechin, rutin, quercitrin, quercetin, luteolin, and kaempferol were positively identified and quantified. Therefore, the present method will be useful for the monitoring and screening of flavonoids in natural products.
Evolving an Accurate Decision Tree‐Based Model for Predicting Carbon Dioxide Solubility in Polymers
Authors: Soleimani Reza , Saeedi Dehaghani Amir Hossein , Rezai-Yazdi Ali , Hosseini Seyed Abolhassan , Hosseini Seyedeh Pegah , Bahadori Alireza
Published: November 2019

Solubility is one of the most indispensable physicochemical properties determining the compatibility of components of a blending system. Research has been focused on the solubility of carbon dioxide in polymers as a significant application of green chemistry. To replace costly and time‐consuming experiments, a novel solubility prediction model based on a decision tree, called the stochastic gradient boosting algorithm, was proposed to predict CO2 solubility in 13 different polymers, based on 515 published experimental data lines. The results indicate that the proposed ensemble model is an effective method for predicting the CO2 solubility in various polymers, with highly satisfactory performance and high efficiency. It produces more accurate outputs than other methods such as machine learning schemes and an equation of state approach.
Culturing Rat Whole Ovary for UV Filter Benzophenone‐3 Treatment
Authors: Santamaría Clarisa Guillermina , Abud Julián Elías , Luque Enrique Hugo , Kass Laura , Rodríguez Horacio Adolfo
Published: November 2019

We describe a detailed protocol to establish a newborn rat whole ovary culture, which enables the study of direct effects (independent of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis) of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as benzophenone‐3 (BP‐3). This method is useful to understand changes in follicle formation, primordial to primary transition, and expression of regulatory molecules linked to these processes and also provides an alternative to animal models. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Basic Protocol 1: Rat ovarian surgery

Basic Protocol 2: Whole organ/ovarian culture

Basic Protocol 3: RNA isolation and quantitative real‐time PCR

Basic Protocol 4: Histological processing and staining
Comment on “Potential profile near the virtual cathode in presence of charged dust”
Authors: Choudhary Mangilal
Published: November 2019

The characteristics of the virtual cathode and its potential profile in the presence of negatively charged dust particles have been reported by Rathod et al. They have studied the role of charged dust particles in the formation of virtual cathode near the emitting surface. Two conditions of the dust charge number, Zd = 1 and Zd = 1,000 are used to study the role of dust density (nd) for the formation of virtual cathode. This work is original and will be more interesting in case of using the correct model equations and realistic dusty plasma conditions.
Weak Intramolecular Interactions to Stabilize Supramolecular Fullerene‐Porphyrin Conjugates and to Control the Conformation of Multiporphyrinic Arrays
Authors: Nierengarten Jean‐François
Published: November 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue is Jean‐François Nierengarten from the University of Strasbourg and CNRS, France. The cover image shows an artistic view of a research team discussing weak intramolecular interactions involving metalloporphyrins. Minutes of this group meeting are presented in a minireview highlighting how such interactions have been used to stabilize photoactive supramolecular devices and to control the conformation of large multiporphyrinic arrays.
BEAcM‐DP: A broadcast encryption anti‐censorship mechanism based on directory proxy
Authors: Zhu Yi , Tao Yu , Huang Ruilan
Published: November 2019

As a typical representative of the next generation Internet, named data networking (NDN) solves many problems in IP network by adopting content‐oriented architecture. However, NDN also faces with severe challenges in the aspect of name and content privacy. One important privacy threat is the name censorship. By maintaining a blacklist at the hijacked router, an attacker can filter the received interest packets with sensitive content names. To solve this problem, we propose a broadcast encryption anticensorship mechanism, which is based on directory proxy. In our design, a directory proxy is deployed in the network, which provides a periodic updated directory file to all authorized users. In the directory file, a one‐to‐one mapping list of fake names with the censored names is given. By obtaining the directory file, the authorized user can request the censored content with its fake name. In addition, the directory proxy plays the role of translating the received fake name and then retrieving the target with real name. To guarantee the reusability of retrieved contents, the directory proxy returns them to the authorized users through broadcast encryption. The users within one broadcast group can share the encrypted censored contents at nearby routers. Simulation results show that, compared with ANDaNA, this mechanism can effectively avoid censorship in the network, while ensuring the utilization of in‐network caching and reducing the request delay.
Cryoprotective effect of silver carp muscle hydrolysate on baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and its underlying mechanism
Authors: Wang Faxiang , Xiong Sijia , Li Xianghong , Yu Jian , Huang Yiqun , Liu Yongle
Published: November 2019

Cryoprotective effect of silver carp muscle hydrolysate (SCMH) on baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) was examined by analyzing the growth and survival of the yeast during freeze–thaw cycles, and the physicochemical properties [ultrastructure, intracellular proteins and fatty acids, external ice formation (EIF) and internal ice formation (IIF), freezable water content] of yeast cells with or without SCMH through transmission electron microscopy, SDS‐PAGE, GC‐MS, and differential scanning calorimetry. The 4% of SCMH treatment exhibited good yeast cryoprotective activity and increased the yeast survival rate from 0.71% to 90.95% after 1 freeze–thaw cycle as compared to the control. The results demonstrated that the addition of SCMH could attenuate the freeze damage of yeast cells, prevent the degradation or loss of soluble proteins, and increase the composition and absolute content of fatty acids. Besides, the addition of 4% SCMH caused a drop in the EIF peak temperature (from −17.95℃ to −25.14℃) and a decrease in the IIF and freezable water content of yeast cells.
The effect of college education on health and mortality: Evidence from Canada
Authors: Lacroix Guy , Laliberté‐Auger Francois , Michaud Pierre‐Carl , Parent Daniel
Published: November 2019

We investigate the returns to college attendance in Canada in terms of health and mortality reduction. To do so, we first use a dynamic health microsimulation model to document how interventions that incentivize college attendance among high school graduates may impact their health trajectory, health care consumption, and life expectancy. We find large returns both in terms of evity (4.1 years additional years at age 51), reduction in the prevalence of various health conditions (10–15 percentage points reduction in diabetes and 5 percentage points for stroke), and health care consumption (27.3% reduction in lifetime hospital stays, 19.7 for specialists). We find that education impacts mortality mostly by delaying the incidence of health conditions as well as providing a survival advantage conditional on having diseases. Second, we provide quasi‐experimental evidence on the impact of college attendance on long‐term health outcomes by exploiting the Canadian Veteran's Rehabilitation Act, a program targeted towards returning WW‐II veterans and which incentivized college attendance. The impact on mortality is found to be larger than those estimated from the health microsimulation model (hazard ratio of 0.216 compared with 0.6 in the simulation model), which suggests substantial returns to college education in terms of healthy life extension which we estimate to be approximately one million canadian dollars.
Negotiating Power: How youth organizers recast the debate about school reform
Authors: Rosen Sonia M. , Conner Jerusha
Published: November 2019

In the context of a neoliberal policy landscape, urban high school students who are constructed by policymakers as either dependents or deviants have little to no agency in the larger policy debates that shape what kinds of educational opportunities and choices are available to them. In this article, we explore how the Philadelphia Student Union (PSU), a youth organizing group, engaged in the debate around educational change and attempted to shift public opinion and understanding. Specifically, we examine how PSU derived and deployed power in a contest with school policymakers about educational reform. Understanding this exercise of power as a means of advancing youth voice and developing equitable systems of public accountability for all stakeholders can help us better appreciate the role youth can play in negotiating the terms of the debate over how best to improve the schools serving our nation's most vulnerable students.
Matchings in k‐partite k‐uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Han Jie , Zang Chuanyun , Zhao Yi
Published: November 2019

For and , let be a ‐partite ‐graph with parts each of size , where is sufficiently large. Assume that for each , every ‐set in lies in at least edges, and . We show that if , then contains a matching of size . In particular, contains a matching of size if each crossing ‐set lies in at least edges, or each crossing ‐set lies in at least edges and . This special case answers a question of Rödl and Ruciński and was independently obtained by Lu, Wang, and Yu. The proof of Lu, Wang, and Yu closely follows the approach of Han by using the absorbing method and considering an extremal case. In contrast, our result is more general and its proof is thus more involved: it uses a more complex absorbing method and deals with two extremal cases.
Synthesis and cytotoxic activity against human tumor cells of heterocyclic systems derived from 2‐thioxo‐1,2‐dihydro‐4H‐3,1‐benzothazin‐4‐one
Authors: Khlosy Tamer A. , Salem Marwa S. , Ali Amira T. , Madkour Hassan M.F.
Published: November 2019

The title compound was prepared and converted to 2‐hydrazinyl‐1,2‐dihydro‐4H‐benzo[d][1,3]thiazin‐4‐one which was utilized to synthesize fused heterocyclic systems, namely benzotriazolothiazinone derivatives, as well as, nonfused heterocyclic systems such as pyrazolyl‐benzothiazinones, benzothiazinylpyridazine and imidazolylbenzothiazinone derivatives via reaction with formamide, acetic acid, ethyl cyanoacetate, maleic anhydride and benzaldehyde followed by treatment with glycine, respectively. All compounds have been structurally characterized by means of IR, MS, and 1H‐NMR spectra. The synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro for their antiproliferative activity against HePG‐2 and MCF‐7 cell lines. 2H‐Benzo[d][1,3]thiazine‐2,4(1H)‐dithione and 2‐thioxo‐1,2‐dihydro‐4H‐benzo[d][1,3]thiazin‐4‐one were the most potent against the two cancer cells compared to that of the reference compound doxorubicin. Most of the synthesized compounds also exhibited good cytotoxic activity.
A high prevalence of arterial hypertension in patients with mitochondrial diseases
Authors: Chong‐Nguyen Caroline , Stalens Caroline , Goursot Yves , Bougouin Wulfran , Stojkovic Tanya , Béhin Anthony , Mochel Fanny , Berber Nawal , Eymard Bruno , Duboc Denis , Laforêt Pascal , Wahbi Karim
Published: November 2019

The prevalence of arterial hypertension in mitochondrial diseases remains unknown. Between January 2000 and May 2014, we retrospectively included patients with genetically proven mitochondrial diseases. We recorded clinical, genetic and cardiac exploration data, including the measure of arterial pressure. Among the 260 patients included in the study (mean age = 44 ± 15 years, women = 158), 108 (41.5%) presented with arterial hypertension. The prevalence of hypertension by sex and age was higher than that observed in the general population for all groups. The prevalence of hypertension was significantly higher in patients with MELAS (mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke‐like episodes) mutations (66%) and MERRF (myoclonus, epilepsy, ataxia with ragged ref fibres) mutations (61%). In patients with MELAS mutation, the presence of hypertension was significantly associated with age and mutation rate in the blood (odds ratio = 1.12; P = .02) in multivariate analysis. The prevalence of hypertension was more important in patients having a mitochondrial disease. The increased risk was more important in patient with MELAS or MERRF and depended on the rate of heteroplasmy.
Ultrastructural defects in stereocilia and tectorial membrane in aging mouse and human cochleae
Authors: Bullen Anwen , Forge Andrew , Wright Anthony , Richardson Guy P. , Goodyear Richard J. , Taylor Ruth
Published: November 2019

The aging cochlea is subjected to a number of pathological changes to play a role in the onset of age‐related hearing loss (ARHL). Although ARHL has often been thought of as the result of the loss of hair cells, it is in fact a disorder with a complex etiology, arising from the changes to both the organ of Corti and its supporting structures. In this study, we examine two aging pathologies that have not been studied in detail despite their apparent prevalence; the fusion, elongation, and engulfment of cochlear inner hair cell stereocilia, and the changes that occur to the tectorial membrane (TM), a structure overlying the organ of Corti that modulates its physical properties in response to sound. Our work demonstrates that similar pathological changes occur in these two structures in the aging cochleae of both mice and humans, examines the ultrastructural changes that underlie stereocilial fusion, and identifies the lost TM components that lead to changes in membrane structure. We place these changes into the context of the wider pathology of the aging cochlea, and identify how they may be important in particular for understanding the more subtle hearing pathologies that precede auditory threshold loss in ARHL.
The importance of grain size and shape in controlling the dispersion of the Vedde cryptotephra
Authors: Saxby Jennifer , Rust Alison , Cashman Katharine , Beckett Frances
Published: November 2019

Volcanic ash is dispersed in the atmosphere according to meteorology and particle properties, including size and shape. However, the multiple definitions of size and shape for non‐spherical particles affect our ability to use physical particle properties to understand tephra transport. Moreover, although particles are often excluded from operational ash dispersion model setups, ash in tephra deposits 1000 km from source can exceed . Here we measure the shape and size of samples of Vedde ash from Iceland, an exceptionally widespread tephra layer in Europe, collected in Iceland and Norway. Using X‐ray computed tomography and optical microscopy, we show that distal ash is more anisotropic than proximate ash, suggesting that shape exerts an important control on tephra dispersion. Shape also impacts particle size measurements. Particle long axis, a parameter often reported by tephrochronologists, is on average greater than geometric size, used by dispersion modellers. By using geometric size and quantifying shape, we can explain the transport of Vedde ash particles more than 1200 km from source. We define a set of best practices for measuring the size and shape of cryptotephra shards and discuss the benefits and limitations of using physical particle properties to understand cryptotephra transport.
The value of cellular components of blood in the setting of trimodal therapy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Tustumi Francisco , Takeda Flávio Roberto , Viyuela Mateus Silva , da Cruz Junior Jurandir Batista , Brandão Antonio Adolfo Guerra Soares , Sallum Rubens Antonio Aissar , Ribeiro Junior Ulysses , Cecconello Ivan
Published: November 2019

Background

Inflammation status plays an important role in the natural history of malignancy. Consequently, hematological markers of systemic inflammation may predict prognosis in neoplasms. This study evaluated the value of cellular blood components changes during neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by esophagectomy for cancer in predicting prognosis.

Methods

A cohort of 149 patients was analyzed. Cellular components of blood were assessed before neoadjuvant therapy (A); before surgery (B); and 3 to 5 months after surgery (C); for the following outcomes: pathological response, overall survival (OS), and disease‐free survival (DFS). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were applied to evaluate the independent prognostic significance of blood count variables.

Results

Low hematocrit (Ht) (C) (HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.79‐0.92) and high neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (C) (HR, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.07‐1.10) were related to poor OS. Low Hb (C) (HR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.58‐0.88), red cell distribution width (RDW) (C‐A) (HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.02‐1.31), and NLR (C‐A) (1.06; 95% CI, 1.03‐1.09) were related to poor DFS. RDW (B‐A) (HR, 1.15; 95% CI, 1.08‐1.22), RDW (C) (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.2), NLR (C) (HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.08‐1.17) were related to systemic recurrence.

Conclusion

Variables of routine blood count are easily assessable and their changes throughout trimodal therapy for esophageal carcinoma provide important information for cancer patient's prognosis.
Safety and cost of drug‐induced sleep endoscopy outside the operating room
Authors: Bergeron Mathieu , Lee David R. , DeMarcantonio Michael A. , Kandil Ali , Mahmoud Mohamed A. , Fleck Robert J. , Ishman Stacey L.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) is used to assess site of obstruction for patients in a pharmacologically induced sleep‐like state. It is traditionally performed in the operating room (OR), however, no data exists regarding the feasibility of this intervention outside the OR in children. The objective is to compare the safety of DISE performed in the MRI induction room to those performed in the OR.

Methods

Prospective case‐series of patients undergoing DISE in the MRI induction room (study group) to those assessed in the OR (controls) in a single‐institution pediatric tertiary care center. Consecutive patients undergoing DISE examination for persistent obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) after adenotonsillectomy from September 2016 to September 2017 were included.

Results

Overall, 118 patients (38 study patients, 80 controls) with a mean age of 10.6 years (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.3–11.9) underwent DISE; 39.8% (47/118) were female. The most frequent comorbidity was cardiac disease (22.0%, 26/118). The mean obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index was 12.2 events/hour (95% CI, 8.8–15.6) for controls and 13.5 events/hour (95% CI, 8.7–18.3) for study patients (P = .76). No major complication or unplanned admissions occurred in either group. Induction time was similar (12 vs. 13 minutes, P = .7) as was total procedure time (12 vs. 14 minutes, P = .3) for procedures performed in both settings.

Conclusion

There were no significant complications for DISE performed in the OR or the MRI induction room and procedure times were similar. Further assessment of patient outcomes and resource utilization is needed.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130: 2076–2080, 2020
The efficacy of loading programmes for improving patient‐reported outcomes in chronic midportion Achilles tendinopathy: A systematic review
Authors: Head John , Mallows Adrian , Debenham James , Travers Mervyn J. , Allen Lorraine
Published: November 2019

Objective

Achilles tendinopathy is a common type of overuse condition, with isolated eccentric loading (ECL) programmes being the principal conservative treatment of choice. However, alternative protocols, involving different contraction types, have more recently been investigated. The purpose of the present review was to examine the evidence from studies comparing two or more different types of loading programmes in relation to patient‐reported outcomes for people with Achilles tendinopathy.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken, and the risk of bias of included papers were assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. An electronic search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase and SPORTDiscus was undertaken from their inception to May 2018. The eligibility criteria for selecting studies were randomized controlled or clinical controlled trials investigating two or more different loading programmes for chronic (>3 months) Achilles tendinopathy.

Results

Seven articles were included in the review. Low‐quality evidence exists that a do‐as‐tolerated modification of the Alfredson programme is more effective than the standardized programme at improving function in the short term. Very‐low‐quality evidence suggests that ECL is superior at reducing pain levels than concentric in isolation, but no more effective at improving pain or disability than concentric–eccentric programmes.

Conclusions

There is conflicting evidence regarding the superiority of ECL over other contraction types, challenging the current approach to managing Achilles tendinopathy. There is also evidence that do‐as‐tolerated repetition volumes are more effective at improving function in the short term compared with those recommended by the standardized Alfredson protocol.
The effects of a strong desire to void on gait for incontinent and continent older community‐dwelling women at risk of falls
Authors: Paquin Marie‐Hélène , Duclos Cyril , Lapierre Nolween , Dubreucq Lucie , Morin Melanie , Meunier Jean , Rousseau Jacqueline , Dumoulin Chantal
Published: November 2019

Aims

The fall rate in urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) and mixed UI (MUI) older women is higher when compared with that of continent women. One hypothesis is that a strong desire to void (SDV) could alter gait parameters and therefore increase the risk of falls. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the effect of SDV on gait parameters in UUI/MUI and continent older women who experienced falls. The secondary aim was to determine the relationship between UI severity and gait parameters in incontinent women.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental pilot study was conducted with two groups of healthy community‐dwelling women who experienced at least one fall in the last year: continent (n = 17; age: 74.1 ± 4.3) and UUI/MUI (n = 15; age: 73.5 ± 5.9). We recorded, analyzed, and compared spatiotemporal gait parameters for participants in each group with both SDV and no desire to void condition.

Results

A pattern of reduced velocity (P = 0.05) and stride width (P = 0.02) was observed in both groups with SDV. Incontinence severity was correlated with reduced velocity (rs = −0.63,P = 0.01), increased stance time (rs= 0.65,P = .01) and stance time variability (rs = 0.65,P = .01) in no desire to void condition and with reduced velocity (rs = −0.56,P = .03) and increased stride length variability (rs = 0.54,P = .04) in SDV condition.

Conclusions

SDV reduced gait velocity and stride width regardless of continence status in older women at risk of falls. Further, UI severity in the UUI/MUI women was correlated to reduced gait velocity and increased variability. Our findings could explain the higher fall rate in this population.
The role of a new three‐dimensional ultrasound technique in the diagnosis of levator ani muscle avulsion
Authors: Montaguti Elisa , Cariello Luisa , Dodaro Maria Gaia , Rizzo Nicola , Pilu Gianluigi , Youssef Aly
Published: November 2019

Aims

To evaluate the intermethod agreement between the tomographic ultrasound imaging (TUI), considered as the gold standard, and the OmniView‐VCI in the diagnosis of levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion and in the measurement of levator‐urethral gap (LUG).

Methods

We acquired dynamic 4D transperineal ultrasound volumes from 114 women. Each data set was analyzed on maximal pelvic floor contraction by TUI and OmniView‐VCI techniques to check for LAM avulsion. Moreover, we measured LUG using both TUI and OmniView‐VCI, twice by an operator and once by another to assess intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility. Reproducibility and intermethod agreement were studied by means of intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cohen's kappa coefficient.

Results

In the diagnosis of ani levator avulsion, the two techniques showed a good agreement (Cohen's κ = 0.691, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.522‐0.860; P < .001); we also reported a good intraobserver and interobserver agreement (Cohen's κ = 0.738, 95% CI, 0.597‐0.879; P < .001, and Cohen's κ = 0.864, 95% CI, 0.750‐0.978; P < .001, respectively). LUG measurements by OmniView‐VCI technique showed high intraobserver (ICC 0.895; 95% CI, 0.866‐0.918) and interobserver (ICC 0.821; 95% CI, 0.774‐0.858) reproducibility. High intermethod agreement was demonstrated between the two methods (ICC 0.813; 95% CI, 0.764‐0.853). The area under the receiver‐operating characteristic curve of LUG in predicting avulsion was 0.931 (0.868‐0.994, 95% CI; P < .001) with 24 mm showing the best sensitivity (82%) and specificity (97%).

Conclusions

OmniView‐VCI is a reliable method for LUG measurement and for levator avulsion diagnosis.