bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Value of Impoliteness in Octavia Butler’s Xenogenesis Trilogy
Authors: Hostetler Margaret
Published: March 2020

Despite extensive critical discourse on themes of power, conflict, and language in Octavia Butler’s work, the impact of linguistic impoliteness on these themes has not been previously explored. This paper analyzes Butler’s use of linguistic (im)politeness in her Xenogenesis trilogy finding that Butler undermines polite forms of communication thereby foregrounding power asymmetry between characters. Although dystopic literature creates an expectation of impoliteness and conflict, Butler relies on a normative framework of ordinary conversational politeness to heighten impoliteness effects so that they remain salient to readers. The spokesperson for this privileged view of confrontational verbal interaction is her main female character, Lilith Iyapo, whose focalized interactions allow Butler to connect impoliteness with key themes of the trilogy—truth telling and an authentic human identity.
Pan-cancer systematic identification of lncRNAs associated with cancer prognosis
Authors: Ung Matthew , Schaafsma Evelien , Mattox Daniel , Wang George L. , Cheng Chao
Published: March 2020

Background

The “dark matter” of the genome harbors several non-coding RNA species including Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which have been implicated in neoplasia but remain understudied. RNA-seq has provided deep insights into the nature of lncRNAs in cancer but current RNA-seq data are rarely accompanied by longitudinal patient survival information. In contrast, a plethora of microarray studies have collected these clinical metadata that can be leveraged to identify novel associations between gene expression and clinical phenotypes.

Methods

In this study, we developed an analysis framework that computationally integrates RNA-seq and microarray data to systematically screen 9,463 lncRNAs for association with mortality risk across 20 cancer types.

Results

In total, we identified a comprehensive list of associations between lncRNAs and patient survival and demonstrate that these prognostic lncRNAs are under selective pressure and may be functional. Our results provide valuable insights that facilitate further exploration of lncRNAs and their potential as cancer biomarkers and drug targets.
EFICÁCIA DA MISTURA DE ALGICIDA COM HERBICIDAS EM MACRÓFITAS E CONTROLE SECUNDÁRIO DE ALGAS
Authors: Cruz Claudinei Da , Silva Adilson Ferreira , Garlich Nathalia , Florêncio Taise , Pitelli Robinson Antonio
Published: March 2020

Os objetivos deste estudo foram determinar a eficácia de controle dos herbicidas imazamox e saflufenacil, isolados e em mistura com hidróxido de cobre (fonte de íon cobre) no controle da macrófita (Ceratophyllum demersum) e determinar a eficácia de controle de alga unicelular (Ankistrodesmus gracilis) e filamentosa (Pitophora kewensis) das misturas imazamox + 0,1% de cobre e saflufenacil + 0,1% de cobre, em condição de laboratório. Para o controle de C. demersum, os experimentos foram instalados com as concentrações de 0,01; 0,1; 1,0; 2,5; 5,0; e 10,0 mg L-1 imazamox e saflufenacil isolados ou acrescido de 0,1% de fonte cobre. Para os experimentos com alga unicelular (70 mL da água coletada) e alga filamentosa (1,0g) foi utilizado a concentrações 0,01; 0,1; 1,0; 2,5; 5,0; e 10,0 mg L-1 imazamox e saflufenacil acrescidos de 0,1% de cobre. Após o término do experimento foi determinado à concentração de clorofila a e feofitina a presentes nas amostras. Com a utilização de imazamox + 0,1% de cobre ocorreu redução de 100% do peso e do comprimento da macrófita a partir de 2,5 mg L-1. Com o saflufenacil + 0,1% de cobre ocorreu 100% de mortalidade das plantas em 1,0 mg L-1. As misturas testadas também foram eficazes na redução da atividade fotossintética de algas unicelulares e filamentosas. A aplicação dos herbicidas imazamox e saflufenacil acrescidos de 0,1% de hidróxido de cobre apresenta sinergismo no controle de macrófitas submersas e pode apresentar efeito secundário algicida.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) Study of a Dye Extract
Authors: Thliza Bala Adamu , Moses Edmond , Shanu Buba Usman
Published: March 2020

Grätzel cells mimic the process of plant photosynthesis, and these new dye-sensitized cells take the imitation even closer, the new chemical combination gives them a greenish tint. Pt/TiO2/Dye modified electrode shows two pair of oxidation peaks at 256 and 474 mV which is ascribed to Fe3+/Fe2+ and a reduction peak of 210 mV which is ascribed to TiO2/Dye. The internal resistance of the DSSC shows the dye can be strongly adsorbed to the surface of TiO2, therefore Pt/TiO2/Dye electrode transfers electron with very minimal resistance making the dye a good sensitizer material for DSSCs. The high voltage is as a result of the impregnation of the dye on the TiO2. An investigation into the internal resistance of the DSSC shows the dye can be strongly adsorbed to the surface of TiO2, therefore Pt/TiO2/Dye electrode transfers electron with very minimal resistance making the dye a good sensitizer material for DSSCs.
Effect of racial bias on composite construction
Authors: Bhardwaj Kavya , Hole Graham
Published: March 2020

We investigated how prior bias about a face's racial characteristics can affect its encoding and resultant facial composite construction. In total, 61 participants (24 Europeans, 18 Indians living in India and 19 Indians living in Europe) saw a racially ambiguous unfamiliar face and were led to believe it was either European or Indian. They created a composite of this face, using EFIT6. Two groups of independent raters (one Indian, the other European) then assessed the apparent race of each composite. A different two groups (one Indian, one European) assessed each composite's degree of resemblance to the target face, to determine whether this was influenced by the constructors' initial categorisation of the target face as “own‐race” or “other‐race.” Composites appeared significantly more “Asian” or “European” according to the bias induced in their creators, but there was no evidence of any own‐race bias in the resemblance ratings for the composites.
Mechanical Regulation of Endocytosis: New Insights and Recent Advances
Authors: Joseph Jophin G. , Liu Allen P.
Published: March 2020

Endocytosis is a mechanosensitive process. It involves remodeling of the plasma membrane from a flat shape to a budded morphology, often at the sub‐micrometer scale. This remodeling process is energy‐intensive and is influenced by mechanical factors such as membrane tension, membrane rigidity, and physical properties of cargo and extracellular surroundings. The cellular responses to a variety of mechanical factors by distinct endocytic pathways are important for cells to counteract rapid and extreme disruptions in the mechanohomeostasis of cells. Recent advances in microscopy and mechanical manipulation at the cellular scale have led to new discoveries of mechanoregulation of endocytosis by the aforementioned factors. While factors such as membrane tension and membrane rigidity are generally shown to inhibit endocytosis, other mechanical stimuli have complex relationships with endocytic pathways. At this juncture, it is now possible to utilize experimental techniques to interrogate theoretical predictions on mechanoregulation of endocytosis in cells and even living organisms.
Enhanced Single‐Chain Magnet Behavior via Anisotropic Exchange in a Cyano‐Bridged MoIII–MnII Chain
Authors: Shi Le , Shao Dong , Wei Xiao‐Qin , Dunbar Kim R. , Wang Xin‐Yi
Published: March 2020

Anisotropic magnetic exchange is of great value for the design of high performance molecular nanomagnets. In the present work, enhanced single‐chain magnet (SCM) behavior is observed for a MoIII–MnII chain that exhibits anisotropic magnetic exchange. Self‐assembly of the pentagonal bipyramidal [Mo(CN)7]4− anion and the MnII unit with a tridentate ligand results in a neutral double zigzag 2,4‐ribbon structure which exhibits SCM behavior with a high relaxation barrier of 178(4) K. Open magnetic hysteresis loops are observed below 5.2 K, with a coercive field of 1.5 T at 2 K. Interestingly, this SCM can be considered to be a result of a step‐wise process based on our previously reported Mn2Mo single‐molecule magnets (SMMs).
Semiconducting Polycomplex Nanoparticles for Photothermal Ferrotherapy of Cancer
Authors: He Shasha , Jiang Yuyan , Li Jingchao , Pu Kanyi
Published: March 2020

This study reports the development of iron‐chelated semiconducting polycomplex nanoparticles (SPFeN) for photoacoustic (PA) imaging‐guided photothermal ferrotherapy of cancer. The hybrid polymeric nanoagent comprises a ferroptosis initiator (Fe3+) and an amphiphilic semiconducting polycomplex (SPC) serving as both the photothermal nanotransducer and iron ion chelator. By virtue of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) grafting and its small size, SPFeN accumulates in the tumor of living mice after systemic administration, which can be monitored by PA imaging. In the acidic tumor microenvironment, SPFeN generates hydroxyl radicals, leading to ferroptosis; meanwhile, under NIR laser irradiation, it generates localized heat to not only accelerate the Fenton reaction but also implement photothermal therapy. Such a combined photothermal ferrotherapeutic effect of SPFeN leads to minimized dosage of iron compared to previous studies and effectively inhibits the tumor growth in living mice, which is not possible for the controls.
A Spectroscopic Study of Electrochemical Nitrogen and Nitrate Reduction on Rhodium Surfaces
Authors: Yao Yao , Zhu Shangqian , Wang Haijiang , Li Hui , Shao Minhua
Published: March 2020

Rh is a promising electrocatalyst for the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) given its suitable nitrogen‐adsorption energy and low overpotential. However, the NRR pathway on Rh surfaces remains unknown. In this study, we employ surface‐enhanced infrared‐absorption spectroscopy (SEIRAS) and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) to study the reaction mechanism of NRR on Rh. N2Hx (0≤x≤2) is detected with a N=N stretching mode at ≈2020 cm−1 by SEIRAS and a signal at m/z=29 by DEMS. A new two‐step reaction pathway on Rh surfaces is proposed that involves an electrochemical process with a two‐electron transfer to form N2H2 and its subsequent decomposition in the electrolyte producing NH3. Our results also indicate that nitrate reduction and the NRR share the same reaction intermediate N2Hx.
Hydrogen Energy Production from Advanced Reforming Processes and Emerging Approaches
Authors: Vo Dai‐Viet N. , Nanda Sonil , Setiabudi Herma Dina , Inamuddin
Published: March 2020

No abstract.
Discovery of Novel Autophagy Inhibitors and Their Sensitization Abilities for Vincristine‐Resistant Esophageal Cancer Cell Line Eca109/VCR
Authors: Shan Changyu , Hui Wenqi , Li Hongwei , Wang Zheng , Guo Chunling , Peng Ruikun , Gu Jing , Chen Yingchun , Ouyang Qin
Published: March 2020

Resistance phenomena, especially acquired drug resistance, have been severely hampering the application of chemotherapeutics during cancer chemotherapy. Autophagy plays a role in maintaining the survival of cancer cells and might mediate resistance to chemotherapy drugs. Herein, a new series of 5‐amino‐2‐ether‐benzamide derivatives were synthesized and evaluated as autophagy inhibitors. Selected from 14 synthesized compounds as lead autophagy inhibitor, N‐(cyclohexylmethyl)‐5‐(((cyclohexylmethyl)amino)methyl)‐2‐((4‐(trifluoromethyl)benzyl)oxy)benzamide (4 d) showed the most obvious effect of LC3B protein conversion. Further, its autophagy inhibition, evaluated by using transmission electron microscopy and confocal microscopy, showed that the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes in the final stage of autophagic flux was suppressed. We also found that 4 d could enhance the chemosensitivity of vincristine in vincristine‐resistant esophageal cancer cell line Eca109/VCR in a synergistic, associative manner. Moreover, a computational study showed that 4 d might bind with p62‐zz to inhibit autophagy. We also found 4 d to be relatively less cytotoxic to normal cells versus cancer cells than the reported p62‐zz inhibitor.
Superbase‐Mediated Indirect Friedländer Reaction: A Transition Metal‐Free Oxidative Annulation toward Functionalized Quinolines
Authors: P. Rahul , P. R. Nitha , Omanakuttan Vishnu K. , Babu Sheba Ann , Sasikumar P. , Praveen Vakayil K. , Hopf Henning , John Jubi
Published: March 2020

A superbase mediated indirect Friedländer reaction towards functionalized quinolines has been realized. The reaction was performed with o‐aminobenzyl alcohol and ketones having an active methylene moiety in the presence of KOH and in DMSO. The reaction proceeds predominantly via initial formation of an imine intermediate and subsequent oxidation of the benzyl alcohol functionality and condensation to afford substituted quinolines. We could also demonstrate that a minor fraction of the reaction proceeds via a chalcone intermediate. The transition metal‐free oxidative annulation was found to be general affording 2‐substituted, 2,3‐disubstituted/fused or multi‐substituted quinolines. The reaction was extended towards the functionalization of natural products and the applicability of the reaction for gram‐scale synthesis of quinolines was also demonstrated.
Emergency egress for the elderly in care home fire situations
Authors: Folk Lauren , Gonzales Kiara , Gales John , Kinsey Michael , Carattin Elisabetta , Young Tim
Published: March 2020

Practitioners are continuing to develop egress modelling software for the design of the built environment. These models require data about human behaviour and factors for calibration, validation and verification. This study aims to address the specific data and knowledge gap: emergency egress of the elderly. Such data are difficult to collect given privacy and consent concerns, with strong relationships generally being required between residences and researchers. Through the observation of nine fire drills at six Canadian long‐term care (LTC) and retirement homes, specific evacuation actions and behaviour were observed for 37 staff members and information about the evacuation of 56 residents was collected. These drills demonstrated that emergency egress in LTC and retirement homes is highly staff dependent with 72% of residents recorded requiring full assistance at all stages of movement in evacuation, and that the type of announced/unannounced drill and level of resident care will affect the type of data collected. The development of travel speed and pre‐movement is discussed subject to limitation with qualitative behavioural insights of residents that were observed. This study provides valuable methodological discussion on how to conduct behavioural studies in similar highly restricted research environments. Specific attention is given to understanding the considerations that must be made when using fire drills as data sources, and the impact that these can have on using such data for modelling. This study may inform the initial setup and programming of evacuation models from an actions and behavioural perspectives of staff members and residents.
Bitter orange peel essential oil: A review of the different factors and chemical reactions influencing its composition
Authors: Gaff Marion , Esteban‐Decloux Martine , Giampaoli Pierre
Published: March 2020

This review summarizes the findings and discusses the results on the different factors that can influence the bitter orange peel oil composition. Small changes in composition can result in noticeable modifications of the odour profile of the essential oil. The analysis method appears to have a crucial effect on the number of compounds identified in the essential oil. Growing location, cultivar, ripening stage, storage conditions and extraction methods are reported to impact the bitter orange essential oil. Bitter orange peel oil should be stored at −21°C to prevent changes in the composition and formation of artefacts when storing for a period of several months. The influence of cultivars should not be neglected, since a few cultivars differ a lot from the main cluster of Citrus aurantium L. The geranyl pyrophosphate forms most of the terpenes present in the bitter orange, especially limonene which is the majority compound, by the action of the terpene synthases during growing of the fruit. The extraction method can also be responsible for some differences in the composition due to the absence of water‐soluble compounds in cold‐pressed oils and to acid‐catalysed reactions in hydrodistilled oils such as the decomposition of the linalyl acetate forming many different terpene derivatives.
Reduction in microbial survival on food contact surfaces by a spray coated polymerized quaternary ammonium compound
Authors: Lee Jaesung , Pascall Melvin A.
Published: March 2020

Using polymerization and immobilization techniques, the loss of antimicrobial efficacy of a quaternary ammonium compound (QAC) was minimized by decreasing its solubility and crosslinking it to metal substrates. The survivability of Listeria innocua and Escherichia coli K12 inoculated to silane QAC coated metal surfaces was compared with uncoated metal surfaces at different treatment conditions for up to 6 months storage. Resilience of the coating material to repeated cleaning, up to 20 washing and rinsing cycles, was also investigated. No evidence of bacteria viability (>5 log reduction of colony‐forming unit) was observed for L. innocua when they were inoculated onto coated surfaces stored for 3 months, whereas E. coli was reduced by 3 to 4‐logs. For the viable L. innocua cells on the coated surfaces, >5 log reductions were achieved even after the coated surfaces were cleaned by 20 washing and rinsing cycles prior to the cells’ inoculation. For the E. coli cells, ~ 2 log reductions were achieved after 5 cleaning cycles and <1 log reduction after 10 or more cleaning procedures. Overall, the results showed that the coating had antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria while it showed moderate activity to Gram‐negative bacteria.
KCTD12 promotes G1/S transition of breast cancer cell through activating the AKT/FOXO1 signaling
Authors: Ye Run‐yi , Kuang Xia‐ying , Zeng Hui‐juan , Shao Nan , Lin Ying , Wang Shen‐ming
Published: March 2020

Background

Sustaining proliferation is the most fundamental step for breast cancer tumor genesis. Accelerated proliferation is usually linked to the uncontrolled cell cycle. However, the internal and external factors linked to the activation of breast cancer cell cycle are still to be investigated.

Methods

quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blotting assay were used to detect the expression of potassium channel tetramerization domain containing 12 (KCTD12) in breast cancer. MTT and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate the effect of KCTD12 on cell proliferation of breast cancer. Anchorage‐independent growth assay was used to examine the in vitro tumorigenesis of breast cancer cells. Flow cytometry assay, qPCR, and Western blotting were used to investigate the detailed mechanisms of KCTD12 on breast cancer progression.

Results

Herein, the result showed that the level of KCTD12 is significantly decreased in breast cancer tissues and cells, and lower level of KCTD12 predicts poorer survival for patients with breast cancer. Further cell function tests illustrated that downregulation of KCTD12 significantly promotes cell proliferation and in vitro tumor genesis. Besides, molecular biologic experiments showed that downregulation of KCTD12 can enhance the G1/S transition through activating the AKT/FOXO1 signaling.

Conclusion

Our study inferred that downregulation of KCTD12 can be a novel factor for poor prognosis in breast cancer.
Retrospective study on symptoms and treatment modalities used and short‐term follow up of achalasia cardia in Indian setting
Authors: Jain Mayank , Baijal Neha , Srinivas Melpakkam , Baijal Rajiv , Pratap Nitesh , Bachkaniwala Vatsal , Ganesh P , Venkataraman Jayanthi
Published: March 2020

Background

Achalasia cardia is a rare esophageal motor disorder that is frequently diagnosed late.

Aim

The aim of this study was to study the symptoms, treatment given, and response to treatment in patients with achalasia cardia in an Indian setting.

Materials and methods

This retrospective study included all patients diagnosed with achalasia cardia on high‐resolution esophageal manometry, using Chicago Classification v 3.0. On follow up, patients were contacted by telephone, and details of the treatment given and response were recorded in a predesigned pro forma. We excluded overseas patients, postoperative cases of achalasia, and those in whom the manometry catheter could not be passed across the gastroesophageal junction.

Results

A total of 452 patients (260 males, median age 44.5 years) were included in the study cohort. The major symptoms included dysphagia for solids and liquids (428, 94.7%), regurgitation (360, 79.6%), naso‐oral regurgitation (182, 40.3%), weight loss (322, 71.3%), and chest pain (158, 35%). Type 2 achalasia (229, 50.6%) was the most common subtype, followed by type 3 (154, 34.1%). Chest pain was more common in type 3, and weight loss and naso‐oral regurgitation were more common in type 2 achalasia. A majority of patients underwent Heller's myotomy and pneumatic dilatation. Of 280 patients for whom treatment details were available, 98% reported good response to endoscopic/surgical management.

Conclusion

The predominant symptoms of achalasia cardia vary per the manometric subtype. Heller's myotomy and pneumatic dilatation are the most commonly used treatment options. Response to treatment is good. The choice of treatment modality was likely influenced by financial reasons and availability of local expertise.
Postmarketing surveillance on the clinical use of edoxaban in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (ETNA‐AF‐Japan): One‐year safety and effectiveness analyses
Authors: Yamashita Takeshi , Koretsune Yukihiro , Nagao Tomoko , Shiosakai Kazuhito
Published: March 2020

Background

The safety and effectiveness of edoxaban in real‐world clinical settings have not yet been elucidated thoroughly among Japanese patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). We report the one‐year interim results of ETNA‐AF‐Japan (Edoxaban Treatment in routiNe clinical prActice in patients with nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation: UMIN000017011), an ongoing two‐year study.

Methods

ETNA‐AF‐Japan is a prospective, real‐world multicenter observational study that analyzes the long‐term safety and effectiveness of edoxaban. Physicians recorded clinical characteristics, bleeding events, and clinical events of ischemic stroke and systemic embolism, among others.

Results

In total, 11 569 patients with NVAF were enrolled. The demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients in the safety analysis set (n = 11 107) were a mean age of 74.2 ± 10.0 years; female sex, 40.6%; age ≥75 years, 52.4%; body weight ≤60 kg, 54.3%; creatinine clearance ≤50 mL/min, 31.2%; mean CHADS2 score of 2.2 ± 1.3. The mean treatment period was 311.2 days (median; 366.0 days), and ~80% of patients continued edoxaban treatment. In the safety analysis, the incidence of all bleeding events was 6.32% [95% CI: 5.87, 6.79] (n = 702), and for major bleeding, it was 1.08% [0.90, 1.29] (n = 120). In the effectiveness analysis set (n = 11 059), the incidence of ischemic stroke (excluding TIA) or systemic embolism was 1.10% [0.92, 1.32] (n = 122).

Conclusions

At one‐year follow‐up, the results showed no major concerns about the safety and effectiveness of edoxaban in Japanese patients with NVAF in a real‐world clinical setting.
The rebranding of Srichand: Transforming a 70‐year‐old small and medium enterprise into a disruptive global player
Authors: Santipiriyapon Sawitree , Leelapanyalert Kannika , Kohlbacher Florian
Published: March 2020

How does a sunset business with no computers turn itself into a fast‐growing global firm? For Srichand United Dispensary, a Thai cosmetics company, the answer was to update operations, expand distribution channels, foster a culture of employee engagement, and reposition a long‐popular brand that consumers perceived as outdated, while introducing new products through professionally executed marketing campaigns. Spearheaded by the company's CEO, these efforts were built on assiduous research that leveraged the organization's networks to identify brand gaps and gather essential customer insights. The lessons that Srichand learned in becoming the leading cosmetics brand in Thailand offer guidance for any firm that seeks to respond to fluctuating market demands with speed and agility.
Soil–climate contribution to DNDC model uncertainty in simulating biomass accumulation under urban vegetable production on a Petroplinthic Cambisol in Tamale, Ghana
Authors: Budiman  , Steiner Christoph , Topp Cairistiona F. E. , Buerkert Andreas
Published: March 2020

Crop yield simulation using the Denitrification–Decomposition (DNDC) model can help to understand key bottlenecks for improved nitrogen (N) use efficiency and estimate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in West African urban vegetable production. The DNDC model was successfully calibrated using high‐resolution weather records, information on management practices and soils, and measured biomass accumulation and N uptake by amaranth (Amaranthus L.), jute mallow (Corchorus olitorius L.), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), and roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) for different input intensities (May 2014–November 2015) in urban vegetable production of Tamale (N‐Ghana, West Africa). The root mean square error (RMSE) and relative error (E) values fell within the confidence interval (α 5%) of the measurements, and there was a high correlation (0.91 to 0.98) between measurements and predictions. However, the analysis of uncertainty and factor importance indicated that soil properties (pH, SOC, and clay content) and weather (precipitation) variability contributed highly to yield uncertainty of vegetable biomass.
Pathological Features of Free Graft and Pedicled Flap in the Nasal Cavity: An Animal Study
Authors: Tochigi Kosuke , Omura Kazuhiro , Miyashita Keisuke , Aoki Satoshi , Otori Nobuyoshi , Tanaka Yasuhiro
Published: March 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

Recent developments in reconstructive techniques for mucosal defects using mucoperiosteal materials have enabled rapid recovery of physiological function after endoscopic sinus surgery. Clinical trials have described the advantages, disadvantages, and different outcomes of free graft and pedicled flap, which, respectively, sacrifice or preserve blood flow. However, histological changes, that affect the postoperative outcomes after reconstruction, remain unclear. We created an animal model for the reconstruction of mucosal defects using free grafts and pedicled flaps, and evaluated them histologically.

Study Design

Animal study.

Methods

We created mucosal defects in the left nasal septum of 20 rabbits and performed reconstruction with free grafts and pedicled flaps. The distribution of ciliary and goblet cells at the reconstruction site was evaluated after 7 and 28 days using hematoxylin and eosin–stained sections to calculate the Ciliary Cell Index and Goblet Cell Index. The severity of inflammation was assessed using the Cartilage Inflammatory Cell Score.

Results

Crusting and changes in the mucosal morphology at the reconstruction site occurred only in the free graft group. In addition, the pedicled flap group had significantly greater preservation of ciliary and goblet cells and less inflammatory cell infiltration into the septal cartilage (P < .05) than the free graft group.

Conclusions

After reconstruction procedures for mucosal defects, histopathological differences were observed between the free graft and pedicled flap. Reconstruction with pedicled flaps had advantages including preservation of healthy mucosal epithelium and suppression of inflammation on the reconstruction site. This indicated that reconstruction with pedicled flaps might have advantages over that with free grafts.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E428–E433, 2021
Rhodobacter capsulatus AnfA is essential for production of Fe‐nitrogenase proteins but dispensable for cofactor biosynthesis and electron supply
Authors: Demtröder Lisa , Pfänder Yvonne , Masepohl Bernd
Published: March 2020

The photosynthetic α‐proteobacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus reduces and thereby fixes atmospheric dinitrogen (N2) by a molybdenum (Mo)‐nitrogenase and an iron‐only (Fe)‐nitrogenase. Differential expression of the structural genes of Mo‐nitrogenase (nifHDK) and Fe‐nitrogenase (anfHDGK) is strictly controlled and activated by NifA and AnfA, respectively. In contrast to NifA‐binding sites, AnfA‐binding sites are poorly defined. Here, we identified two highly similar AnfA‐binding sites in the R. capsulatus anfH promoter by studying the effects of promoter mutations on in vivo anfH expression and in vitro promoter binding by AnfA. Comparison of the experimentally determined R. capsulatus AnfA‐binding sites and presumed AnfA‐binding sites from other α‐proteobacteria revealed a consensus sequence of dyad symmetry, TAC–N6–GTA, suggesting that AnfA proteins bind their target promoters as dimers. Chromosomal replacement of the anfH promoter by the nifH promoter restored anfHDGK expression and Fe‐nitrogenase activity in an R. capsulatus strain lacking AnfA suggesting that AnfA is required for AnfHDGK production, but dispensable for biosynthesis of the iron‐only cofactor and electron delivery to Fe‐nitrogenase, pathways activated by NifA. These observations strengthen our model, in which the Fe‐nitrogenase system in R. capsulatus is largely integrated into the Mo‐nitrogenase system.
Routing and scheduling of network flows with deadlines and discrete capacity allocation
Authors: Ahani Ghafour , Wiatr Pawel , Yuan Di
Published: March 2020

Joint scheduling and routing of data flows with deadline constraints in communication networks has been attracting research interest. This type of problem distinguishes from conventional multicommodity flows due to the presence of the time dimension. In this paper, we address a flow routing and scheduling problem with delivery deadline, where the assignment of link capacity occurs in discrete units. Discrete capacity allocation is motivated by applications in communication systems, where it is common to have a base unit of capacity (e.g., wavelength channel in optical communications). We present and prove complexity results of the problem. Next, we give an optimization formulation based on a time slicing approach, which amounts to a discretization of the time into time slices to enable to formulate the deadline constraints. We then derive an effective reformulation of the problem, via which a column generation algorithm is developed. In addition, we propose a simple and fast max‐flow‐based algorithm. We use a number of networks and traffic scenarios to study various performance aspects of the algorithms.
Death distress constructs: A preliminary empirical examination of the Farsi form in nurses: A brief note
Authors: Dadfar Mahboubeh , Lester David
Published: March 2020

Aim

Death distress can increase mental health problems. The aim of the present study was to develop a measure of death distress and evaluate the reliability of this Death Distress Scale‐Farsi (DDS‐F) among nurses. The hypotheses were that death distress has three components and that the DDS‐F would have desirable psychometric properties.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A convenience sample of 106 Iranian nurses from two hospitals at Tehran city, Iran was recruited. They completed the Death Anxiety Scale (DAS), the Death Depression Scale (DDS) and the Death Obsession Scale (DOS).

Results

Cronbach's α for the DDS‐F was 0.71. As expected, the DDS‐F had three independent components: death obsession, death depression and death anxiety. A principle component analysis with a varimax rotation of the DDS‐F items identified three factors accounting for 66.13% of the variance. Factor 1 was labelled “Death Obsession” (31.3% of the variance), Factor 2 was labelled “Death Depression” (21.9% of the variance), and Factor 3 was labelled “Death Anxiety” (12.8% of the variance).

Discussion

Death distress has three components: death obsession, death depression and death anxiety. The DDS‐F which measures these has good psychometric properties, and it can be used in hospital settings to assess death distress among Iranian nurses.
Cisd2: a promising new target in Alzheimer's disease†
Authors: Nobili Annalisa , Krashia Paraskevi , D'Amelio Marcello
Published: March 2020

The CISD2 gene encodes the CDGSH iron‐sulfur domain‐containing protein 2. Cisd2 is involved in mammalian lifespan control, the unfolded protein response, Ca2+ buffering, and autophagy regulation. It has been demonstrated previously that Cisd2 deficiency causes an accelerated ageing phenotype characterised by the accumulation of damaged mitochondria, while Cisd2 overexpression leads to mitochondrial protection against typical age‐associated alterations. Accumulating data suggest that neuronal amyloid‐beta (Aβ) deposition, Ca2+ dysregulation, impairment of autophagic flux, and accumulation of damaged organelles including mitochondria play an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. In a recent issue of The Journal of Pathology, Yi‐Fan Chen and collaborators put together all these experimental observations and demonstrated that Cisd2 overexpression attenuates AD pathogenesis by guaranteeing mitochondrial quality and synaptic functions. The authors report convincing evidence to highlight the role of Cisd2 in Aβ‐mediated mitochondrial damage and, interestingly, this neuroprotection could be dependent on other molecular mechanisms beyond the canonical and previously described roles of Cisd2. Collectively, these data open up new avenues in neuroprotection and highlight Cisd2 as a promising new target in AD. © 2020 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adhesion‐type composites made of elastic polymer films and high resilience nonwoven fabrics: Manufacturing techniques and property evaluations
Authors: Jhang Jia‐Ci , Lin Ting‐Ru , Lin Ting‐An , Chen Yueh‐Sheng , Lou Ching‐Wen , Lin Jia‐Horng
Published: March 2020

In this study, high resilience polyester fibers and low melting point polyester (LMPET) fibers are blended at varying ratios in order to form buffering composite nonwoven fabrics. Next, the employment of hot pressing enables the combination of the fabrics and elastic polymer films. The mechanical and buffering properties of the composites are evaluated in terms of the blending ratio and the thickness of the composites. As per the interface observation and the results of the peel test, the nonwoven fabrics and polymer films are firmly bonded. The tensile test results indicate that when there is more content of LMPET fibers, the reinforcement to the composites is greater. Conversely, the puncture test results indicate that the LMPET‐fiber‐free composites possess 1.4 times higher puncture resistance. Based on the results of the hammer rebound and compression recovery tests, a greater thickness provides the composites with better buffering efficacy.
Systematic approach for content and construct validation: Case studies for arthroscopy and laparoscopy
Authors: Farmer Jake , Demirel Doga , Erol Recep , Ahmadi Daniel , Halic Tansel , Kockara Sinan , Arikatla Venkata S. , Sexton Kevin , Ahmadi Shahryar
Published: March 2020

Background

In minimally invasive surgery, there are several challenges for training novice surgeons, such as limited field‐of‐view and unintuitive hand‐eye coordination due to performing the operation according to video feedback. Virtual reality (VR) surgical simulators are a novel, risk‐free, and cost‐effective way to train and assess surgeons.

Methods

We developed VR‐based simulations to accurately assess and quantify performance of two VR simulations: gentleness simulation for laparoscopy and rotator cuff repair for arthroscopy. We performed content and construct validity studies for the simulators. In our analysis, we systematically rank surgeons using data mining classification techniques.

Results

Using classification algorithms such as K‐Nearest Neighbors, Support Vector Machines, and Logistic Regression we have achieved near 100% accuracy rate in identifying novices, and up to an 83% accuracy rate identifying experts. Sensitivity and specificity were up to 1.0 and 0.9, respectively.

Conclusion

Developed methodology to measure and differentiate the highly ranked surgeons and less‐skilled surgeons.
Going above and beyond: How intermediaries enhance change in emerging economy institutions to facilitate small to medium enterprise development
Authors: Oriaifo Juliet , Torres de Oliveira Rui , Ellis Kimberly M.
Published: March 2020

Research summary

Despite knowledge about the importance of intermediaries in filling institutional voids, we do not understand how intermediaries facilitate institutional change. This research demonstrates how intermediaries use six rhetorical legitimation strategies—logos, ethos, pathos, autopoiesis, teleological, and anthropos appeals—to influence institutional change in Abia, Nigeria, that facilitate small‐to‐medium‐enterprise (SME) development in the region. While the first five rhetorical legitimation strategies are used in both developed and emerging economies, the sixth strategy—anthropos appeals, which reflect the communal character of many African cultures—seems to be unique in this context. Our findings contribute to the literature by extending our understanding of the role of rhetorical legitimation strategies in bringing about institutional change, use of rhetoric to communicate entrepreneurial opportunities, and significance of nonmarket strategies for SMEs.

Managerial summary

SMEs influence economic development in emerging economies but face many constraints. This research examines how intermediaries help reduce constraints SMEs in Nigeria encounter by facilitating institutional changes, through the use of six legitimation strategies (logos, pathos, ethos, autopoiesis, teleological, and anthropos). Also, this research explains how the institutional changes encourage the government to fill voids that generate beneficial outcomes to SMEs, emergent local intermediaries, the general public, and the government itself. Finally, this research finds that market actors in Nigeria use an Anthropos legitimation strategy when appealing to individuals in the local market to help with SME development. This strategy, which taps into the communal character of many African cultures and interestingly has some parallels with Confucianism philosophy, seems to be unique in emerging economies.
Blinded sample size reestimation for negative binomial regression with baseline adjustment
Authors: Zapf Antonia , Asendorf Thomas , Anten Christoph , Mütze Tobias , Friede Tim
Published: March 2020

In randomized clinical trials, it is standard to include baseline variables in the primary analysis as covariates, as it is recommended by international guidelines. For the study design to be consistent with the analysis, these variables should also be taken into account when calculating the sample size to appropriately power the trial. Because assumptions made in the sample size calculation are always subject to some degree of uncertainty, a blinded sample size reestimation (BSSR) is recommended to adjust the sample size when necessary. In this article, we introduce a BSSR approach for count data outcomes with baseline covariates. Count outcomes are common in clinical trials and examples include the number of exacerbations in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, relapses, and scan lesions in multiple sclerosis and seizures in epilepsy. The introduced methods are based on Wald and likelihood ratio test statistics. The approaches are illustrated by a clinical trial in epilepsy. The BSSR procedures proposed are compared in a Monte Carlo simulation study and shown to yield power values close to the target while not inflating the type I error
rate.
Study on the Occurrence of Phosphorus in the Slag of Hot Metal Dephosphorization for Stainless Steel Production
Authors: Zhao Bin , Wu Wei , Wu Wei , Meng Huadong , Gao Qi , Guo Zhibin
Published: March 2020

The dephosphorization process for producing stainless steel hot metal is divided into desiliconization period and dephosphorization period, and the ability to contain phosphorus in the slag is important for the dephosphorization effect of hot metal. The phase structure of the slags during the desiliconization and dephosphorization phases is studied by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), petrographic analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The ability of slag to contain phosphorus during the slagging process of calcium ferrite is discussed. The final slag petrographic composition in the desiliconization stage is mainly free calcium oxide, dicalcium silicate and calcium phosphate solid solution, RO phase, calcium ferrite and metallic iron. The final slag petrographic composition in the dephosphorization phase is mainly composed of tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate and calcium phosphate solid solution, RO phase, dicalcium ferrite and free calcium oxide. Compared with the desiliconization phase, the crystal phase obtained during the dephosphorization phase is more stable. The terminal ferrous slag phosphorus in calcium ferrite slag system mainly exists in the form of 2CaO⋅SiO2−3CaO⋅P2O5 solid solution, whereas the content in other phases is small.
How to perform lung ultrasound in pregnant women with suspected COVID‐19
Authors: Moro F. , Buonsenso D. , Moruzzi M. C. , Inchingolo R. , Smargiassi A. , Demi L. , Larici A. R. , Scambia G. , Lanzone A. , Testa A. C.
Published: March 2020

Under certain circumstances, such as during the current COVID‐19 outbreak, pregnant women can be a target for respiratory infection, and lung examination may be required as part of their clinical evaluation, ideally while avoiding exposure to radiation. We propose a practical approach for obstetricians/gynecologists to perform lung ultrasound examination, discussing potential applications, semiology and practical aspects, which could be of particular importance in emergency situations, such as the current pandemic infection of COVID‐19. Copyright © 2020 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
PSMA-positive nodal recurrence in prostate cancer
Authors: Schmidt-Hegemann Nina-Sophie , Buchner Alexander , Eze Chukwuka , Rogowski Paul , Schaefer Christian , Ilhan Harun , Li Minglun , Fendler Wolfgang Peter , Bartenstein Peter , Ganswindt Ute , Stief Christian , Belka Claus , Kretschmer Alexander
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This analysis compares salvage lymph node dissection (SLND) to salvage lymph node radiotherapy (SLNRT) of 68Ga-PSMA PET-positive nodal recurrences after radical prostatectomy (RPE).

Methods

A total of 67 SLNRT and 33 SLND consecutive patients with pelvic and/or para-aortic nodal recurrences after RPE were retrospectively analyzed. Biochemical recurrence-free survival rates (bRFS; PSA <0.2 ng/mL) were calculated according to Kaplan–Meier and survival curves were compared using the log rank test. For multivariable analysis, binary logistic regression analysis was performed (p < 0.05).

Results

Median follow-up was 17 months (range, 6–53 months) in SLND patients and 31 months (range, 3–56 months) in SLNRT patients (p = 0.027). SLNRT patients had significantly more tumours of pT3 and pT4 category (82% vs. 67%; p = 0.006), pathologically involved lymph nodes (45% vs. 27%; p = 0.001) and positive surgical margins (54% vs. 12%; p = 0.001) at time of RPE than SLND patients. PSA persistence after RPE was significantly more frequently observed in the SLNRT cohort (73% vs. 27%; p = 0.001). There was no significant difference in the distribution of PET-positive lymph nodes. Median PSA before SLND was higher than before SLNRT (3.07 ng/ml vs. 1.3 ng/ml; p = 0.393). The 2‑year bRFS was significantly higher in the SLNRT vs. the SLND cohort (92% vs. 30%; p = 0.001) with lower rates of distant metastases (21% vs. 52%; p = 0.002) and secondary treatments (5% vs. 39%; p = 0.011) irrespective of ongoing androgen deprivation therapy at last contact. In multivariable analysis, SLNRT was significantly associated with prolonged bRFS (regression coefficient 1.436, hazard ratio 4.204, 95% CI 1.789–9.878; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Based on this retrospective study SLNRT might be the preferred treatment option for patients with nodal recurrence after previous RPE.
Born with a solitary kidney: at risk of hypertension
Authors: La Scola Claudio , Marra Giuseppina , Ammenti Anita , Pasini Andrea , Taroni Francesca , Bertulli Cristina , Morello William , Ceccoli Martina , Mencarelli Francesca , Guarino Stefano , Puccio Giuseppe , Montini Giovanni
Published: March 2020

Background

Subjects with a congenital solitary kidney (CSK) are believed to be at risk of hypertension due to their low number of nephrons. However, as CSK is a congenital abnormality of the kidney or urinary tract (CAKUT), subtle dysplastic changes contributing to hypertension cannot be excluded.

Methods

We retrospectively compared office blood pressure (OBP) and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) between two groups of children with CAKUT, aged 6–18 years: Group A with a CSK and Group B with two kidneys. All had normal renal parenchyma on scintigraphy and normal renal function. OBP and mean systolic and diastolic 24-h, daytime and nighttime ambulatory BP records were analyzed. The distribution of OBP and APBM as continuous values and the prevalence of hypertension (ambulatory/severe ambulatory or masked hypertension) in the two groups were compared.

Results

There were 81 patients in Group A and 45 in Group B. Median OBP standard deviation scores were normal in both groups, without significant differences. Median ABPM standard deviation scores, although normal, were significantly higher in Group A and the prevalence of hypertension was higher (ambulatory/severe ambulatory or masked) (33.3 vs. 13.3%, p = 0.019), mainly because of the greater occurrence of masked hypertension.

Conclusions

Our data show that a CSK per se can be associated with an increased risk of hypertension from the pediatric age. Therefore, ABPM, which has proved valuable in the screening of hypertension, is warranted in children with a CSK, even if laboratory and imaging assessment is otherwise normal.
What do you really want to do? Towards a Theory of Intentions for Human-Robot Collaboration
Authors: Gomez Rocio , Sridharan Mohan , Riley Heather
Published: March 2020

The architecture described in this paper encodes a theory of intentions based on the key principles of non-procrastination, persistence, and automatically limiting reasoning to relevant knowledge and observations. The architecture reasons with transition diagrams of any given domain at two different resolutions, with the fine-resolution description defined as a refinement of, and hence tightly-coupled to, a coarse-resolution description. For any given goal, nonmonotonic logical reasoning with the coarse-resolution description computes an activity, i.e., a plan, comprising a sequence of abstract actions to be executed to achieve the goal. Each abstract action is implemented as a sequence of concrete actions by automatically zooming to and reasoning with the part of the fine-resolution transition diagram relevant to the current coarse-resolution transition and the goal. Each concrete action in this sequence is executed using probabilistic models of the uncertainty in sensing and actuation, and the corresponding fine-resolution outcomes are used to infer coarse-resolution observations that are added to the coarse-resolution history. The architecture’s capabilities are evaluated in the context of a simulated robot assisting humans in an office domain, on a physical robot (Baxter) manipulating tabletop objects, and on a wheeled robot (Turtlebot) moving objects to particular places or people. The experimental results indicate improvements in reliability and computational efficiency compared with an architecture that does not include the theory of intentions, and an architecture that does not include zooming for fine-resolution reasoning.