bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TGFBR3 is an independent unfavourable prognostic marker in oesophageal squamous cell cancer and is positively correlated with Ki‐67
Authors: Zhang Xueyan , Chen Yanan , Li Zhihang , Han Xueying , Liang Yingying
Published: November 2020

The transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) superfamily plays an important role in cancer development. One aspect of this is that the transforming growth factor beta receptor III (TGFBR3) is frequently overexpressed in some tumours. However, the role of TGFBR3 in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has not been explored as yet. In this study, we aimed to determine the role of TGFBR3 in the development and prognosis of ESCC and the correlation between TGFBR3 expression and Ki‐67 and p53. Immunohistochemistry was performed to investigate the expression of TGFBR3 in the tumour tissue microarray consisting of ESCC tissues and matched adjacent normal tissues (n = 80). Only ESCC tissues (n = 20) were also used in our analysis. The association between TGFBR3 expression and clinicopathological characteristics, such as Ki‐67 and p53, was analysed by Spearman's rank correlation coefficient analysis. The association between TGFBR3 expression and prognosis of ESCC was analysed using Kaplan‐Meier analysis and log‐rank tests. The expression levels of TGFBR3 in oesophageal cancer tissues were markedly higher than in matched adjacent normal tissues. Furthermore, TGFBR3 overexpression was significantly associated with tumour‐node‐metastasis (TNM) stage, lymph node metastasis (N stage) and Ki‐67 expression. However, TGFBR3 overexpression was not significantly related to age, sex or p53. In univariate analysis, overall survival of ESCC patients was significantly associated with high TGFBR3 expression, sex, T stage, N stage and TNM stage. Moreover, ESCC patients with high TGFBR3 expression had poorer overall survival than those with low TGFB R3 expression. Our findings showed that TGFBR3 was upregulated in the development of human ESCC and high TGFBR3 expression was associated with high expression of Ki‐67 and poor prognosis of ESCC. Therefore, TGFBR3 may be a valuable prognostic marker and a novel therapeutic target for ESCC.
How does the gut microbiome influence immune checkpoint blockade therapy?
Authors: Almonte Andrew A , Rangarajan Hareesha , Yip Desmond , Fahrer Aude M
Published: November 2020

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies are revolutionary cancer treatments; however, they only benefit about a third of patients. Therefore, extensive research is underway to find methods to improve their therapeutic efficacy. One avenue of study that has recently emerged is to consider the role the gut microbiome plays in therapeutic success. Several high‐impact studies have repeatedly shown that the presence, composition and level of diversity of the gut flora directly impact cancer treatment outcome in both mice and patients. These studies have also highlighted the danger of using antibiotics shortly before or during cancer treatments. However, there are still several questions that need to be answered, including which bacteria promote the greatest benefit, the mechanisms by which they act and how we can use this information to influence treatment outcome. In this review, we explain how the gut microbiome was realized to be of such importance and propose hypotheses for why gut flora have such a critical impact on ICB therapeutic success. We also describe a hypothetical mechanism involving bacterial translocation out of the gut and into the tumor, whereby the bacteria act in an adjuvant capacity to facilitate an antitumor response. By highlighting key papers in the field, we hope to hasten research on the subject so as to find a means to improve the therapeutic efficacy of these ground‐breaking cancer treatments.
New graduate nurses' coping with death and the relationship with death self‐efficacy and death anxiety: A multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zheng Ruishuang , Bloomer Melissa Jane , Guo Qiaohong , Lee Susan Fiona
Published: November 2020

Aims

To examine new graduate nurses' perceptions of competency on coping with dying and death and the relationship with death self‐efficacy and death anxiety.

Design

A multicentre, cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Three hundred and forty new graduate nurses from five metropolitan hospitals were recruited between August–November 2018. Participants completed the Coping with Death Scale, Death Self‐efficacy Scale, and Death Anxiety Scale.

Results

Two hundred and ninety‐eight new graduate nurses responded to the survey. The mean score of coping with death and death self‐efficacy was 120.11 (SD 24.59), 259.11 (SD 57.70) respectively. 88.9% feared a painful death, 81.5% were particularly afraid of getting cancer, and 80.2% were afraid of death. There was a positive relationship between coping with death and death self‐efficacy, a negative relationship between coping with death and death anxiety and a negative correlation between death self‐efficacy and death anxiety. Five variables, including death self‐efficacy, three dimensions of death anxiety including emotion, cognition with life and death and stress and distress and religion in total accounted for 46.9% of the variance of coping with death.

Conclusion

New graduate nurses are at a disadvantage in terms of death self‐efficacy, less well prepared in coping with death and are more anxious about death.

Impact

It is imperative for educational institutions to support new graduate nurses with pre‐licensure learning related to patient death issues and care. Organizations are also strongly advised to support new graduate nurses to cope with patient death through development of culturally sensitive interventions and guidelines, which may in turn assist with decreasing new graduate nurses' risk of burnout and increasing their longevity in the profession.
The biogeography of diet diversity of barn owls on Mediterranean islands
Authors: Janžekovič Franc , Klenovšek Tina
Published: November 2020

Aim

Following the classical MacArthur‐Wilson island equilibrium model of species richness, we hypothesize that island size and isolation affect prey composition and diet diversity of predators on islands. We used the barn owl as a model predatory organism that is known for feeding and habitat flexibility and explored the patterns of its diet on Mediterranean islands in relation to the island biogeography and human population density.

Location

Mediterranean Islands.

Taxon

Barn owl (Tyto alba) and its prey.

Methods

Data on taxonomic composition of the barn owl diet were obtained from pellets (Adriatic island of Korčula) and from published studies performed on 18 Mediterranean islands. For each island, diet diversity indices were calculated and correlated with island area, linear distance from the mainland, human population size and density, and geospatial trends.

Results

Murinae mice and rats were the dominant prey. The proportion of birds and reptiles consumed was 5 and 18 times higher, respectively, than in Europe in general. Diet diversity correlated with island size, but not island isolation. Island size was also a good predicator of the proportions of the vertebrate prey. Human population density and longitude had no effect on diet diversity.

Main conclusions

Diet diversity of the barn owl on Mediterranean islands only partly followed the island biogeography theory. Diet diversity was greater on the larger Mediterranean islands. However, a more diverse diet did not mean a higher number of taxa, but a wider range of abundant and evenly represented taxa. The smaller the islands, the more birds and reptiles were consumed, compared to higher proportions of mammals on the larger islands. These findings support the idea of barn owls’ feeding flexibility and opportunistic predator behaviour. Despite the barn owl being a synanthropic bird, urbanization had no influence on its diet diversity. Also island isolation had no significant effect.
Impact of extracellular‐to‐intracellular fluid volume ratio on albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes: A cross‐sectional and longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Nakajima Hanako , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Kaji Ayumi , Sakai Ryosuke , Takahashi Fuyuko , Yoshimura Yuta , Bamba Ryo , Okamura Takuro , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Majima Saori , Senmaru Takufumi , Okada Hiroshi , Nakanishi Naoko , Ushigome Emi , Asano Mai , Hamaguchi Masahide , Yamazaki Masahiro , Fukui Michiaki
Published: November 2020

Aims/Introduction

Body fluid volume imbalance is common in patients with kidney failure, and is associated with all‐cause mortality. This study aimed to investigate the association between fluid volume imbalance and albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without kidney failure.

Materials and Methods

Using data from one cohort study, a baseline cross‐sectional study of 432 participants and a longitudinal cohort study of 368 participants who could follow up was carried out. Body fluid imbalance was determined by measuring the extracellular water (ECW)‐to‐intracellular water (ICW) ratio (ECW/ICW) using bioelectrical impedance analysis. A change in the urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (ACR) was defined as the ratio of urinary ACR at follow up to that at baseline. The ECW/ICW ratio was compared with the level of albuminuria.

Results

In this cross‐sectional study, the ECW/ICW ratio increased with the level of albuminuria. There was an association between the ECW/ICW ratio and logarithms of urinary ACR after adjusting for covariates (β = 0.205, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the ECW/ICW ratio was associated with a change in the urinary ACR after adjusting for covariates (β = 0.176, P = 0.004) in this longitudinal study. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve, the optimal cut‐off point of the ECW/ICW ratio for incident macroalbuminuria, defined as ACR >300 mg/gCr, was 0.648 (area under the curve 0.78, 95% confidence interval 0.58–0.90).

Conclusions

The ECW/ICW ratio is independently associated with the level of albuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus without kidney failure. This reinforces the importance of monitoring fluid balance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Characteristics of Brazilian clinical studies registered in ClinicalTrials.gov between 2010 and 2020
Authors: Tiguman Gustavo Magno Baldin
Published: November 2020

Aim

Evidence‐based medicine uses high‐quality methods, such as randomization and blinding prcedures, to support and inform clinical practice. The investigation of trials registered in clinical research databases may help understand the main characteristics of studies conducted in countries, such as Brazil. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of Brazilian clinical trials registered in ClinicalTrials.gov in the last decade.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study performed in ClinicalTrials.gov database with clinical studies registered in Brazil between 2010 and 2020. A search was conducted in the database considering this period using filters for country (Brazil), start date (01 January 2010) and end date (date of the search: 07 May 2020). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the studies. All analyses were conducted on Stata 14.2.

Results

In total, 5368 studies were retrieved, which were mostly randomized (93.2%), blinded (63.2%), Phase III (48.7%) interventional studies (89.9%) with small sample sizes (57.2%) conducted with adults (93.0%) using drugs (42.7%) with a treatment purpose (77.3%), with funding from institutions other than the industry, the NIH, and the US Federal (71.3%).

Conclusions

The majority of Brazilian clinical studies used blinding and randomization procedures in the last 10 years. However, the predominance of trials with small sample sizes and with a focus on adult patients indicate the need of larger studies conducted with the pediatric population.
Trends in Restricting Symptoms at the End of Life from 1998 to 2019: A Cohort Study of Older Persons
Authors: Gill Thomas M. , Gahbauer Evelyne A. , Leo‐Summers Linda , Murphy Terrence E.
Published: November 2020

OBJECTIVES

To describe changes in the occurrence of restricting symptoms at the end of life from 1998 to 2019 and compare these changes according to the condition leading to death.

DESIGN

Prospective longitudinal study.

SETTING

Greater New Haven, CT.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 665 decedents from a cohort of 754 community‐living persons, 70 years or older.

MEASUREMENTS

The occurrence of 16 restricting symptoms was ascertained during monthly interviews. Information on the conditions leading to death was obtained from death certificates and comprehensive assessments that were completed every 18‐months. For each restricting symptom, adjusted rates (per 100 person‐months) were calculated separately for six multiyear time intervals.

RESULTS

From 1998 to 2019, rates decreased for five (31.3%) restricting symptoms (difficulty sleeping; chest pain or tightness; shortness of breath; cold or flu symptoms; and nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea), increased for three (18.8%: arm or leg weakness; urinary incontinence; and memory or thinking problem), and changed little for the other eight (50.0%: poor eyesight; anxiety; depression; musculoskeletal pain; fatigue; dizziness or unsteadiness; frequent or painful urination; and swelling in feet or ankles). The decrease in rates was most pronounced for shortness of breath, with a reduction from 15.0 (95% credible interval = 11.7–18.6) in 1998 to 2001 to 8.2 (95% credible interval = 5.9–10.5) in 2014 to 2019, yielding a rate ratio (95% credible interval) of 0.92 (0.86–0.98). When evaluated according to the condition leading to death, the results were similar, with 10 of the 13 statistically significant rate ratios representing decreases in rates over time and only 3 representing increases.

CONCLUSION

The occurrence of most restricting symptoms at the end of life has been decreasing or stable over the past two decades. These results suggest that end‐of‐life care has been improving, although additional efforts will be needed to further reduce symptom burden at the end of life.
How does scanner choice and 3D model resolution affect data accuracy?
Authors: Balolia Katharine L. , Massey Jason S.
Published: November 2020

Researchers using digital methods often collect data from 3D models at different resolutions, obtained using different scanning techniques. Although previous research has sought to understand whether scanning method and model resolution affect data accuracy, no study has systematically evaluated the sources of error associated with scanning method, data acquisition method and model resolution with the aim of providing practical recommendations about the model resolution required to yield sufficiently accurate data for specimens of given sizes. In this study, using data taken from primate specimens of three broad size categories, we test whether 3D models obtained using five different scanners (Breuckmann SmartSCAN, DAVID/HP 3D Pro S3, NextEngine 2020i, Creaform Go!Scan 20 and microCT/clinicalCT) yield accurate measurements. We assess whether caliper measurements can be used alongside measurements collected from 3D surface models, whether scanning resolution affects measurement accuracy, and how scan resolution, estimated using each scanner's proprietary software, compares to model resolution measured in a standardized way. Each scanner produces 3D models that yield accurate measurements for each size category, however, combining caliper data with those taken from digital models can be problematic. Our results indicate that the accuracy of measurements taken from 3D models depends on both object size and model resolution. Based on our findings, we recommend that small specimens should be scanned at <0.3 mm, medium specimens at 0.3–0.7 mm, and large specimens at 0.3–0.5 mm resolutions if data taken from 3D surface models are to be combined with caliper datasets. We further show, for the first time, that discrepancies in estimated final model resolution are frequently observed across software packages. We therefore recommend that researchers ensure that final model resolutions are adequate based on specimen size and are independently verified using a software package other than the scanner's proprietary software. Finally, we consider the implications of the findings that measurements obtained from surface models are variably consistent with those obtained using calipers.
Guideline for Gynecological Practice in Japan: Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 2020 edition
Authors: Kawaguchi Ryuji , Matsumoto Koji , Ishikawa Tetsuya , Ishitani Ken , Okagaki Ryugo , Ogawa Mariko , Oki Toshimichi , Ozawa Nobuaki , Kawasaki Kaoru , Kuwabara Yoshimitsu , Koga Kaori , Sato Yuichi , Takai Yasushi , Tanaka Kyoko , Tanebe Kyoko , Terauchi Masakazu , Todo Yukiharu , Nose‐Ogura Sayaka , Noda Tsuneo , Baba Tsukasa , Fujii Eriko , Fujii Takuma , Miyazaki Hiroaki , Yoshino Osamu , Yoshimura Kazuaki , Maeda Tsugio , Kudo Yoshiki , Kobayashi Hiroshi
Published: November 2020

Nine years after the first edition of The Guideline for Gynecological Practice, which was jointly edited by The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology and The Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the 4th Revised Edition was published in 2020. The 2020 Guidelines includes 4 additional clinical questions (CQ), which brings the total to 99 CQ (12 on infectious disease, 29 on oncology and benign tumors, 29 on endocrinology and infertility and 29 on healthcare for women). Currently, a consensus has been reached on the Guidelines, and therefore, the objective of this report is to present the general policies regarding diagnostic and treatment methods used in standard gynecological outpatient care that are considered appropriate. At the end of each answer, the corresponding Recommendation Level (A, B, C) is indicated.
The Rise and Fall of Pemex's Petrochemical Arm
Authors: Duhalt Adrián
Published: November 2020

La rama petroquímica de Pemex se consideraba el pilar principal de los esfuerzos mexicanos hacia la industrialización entre 1960 y 1980. Dirigida por diferentes gobiernos, la industria petroquímica paraestatal vivió una expansión rápida con la meta de incentivar el desarrollo de una base industrial mucho más amplia. El resultado fue la articulación de las actividades de producción, pero dificultades económicas y cambios políticos en la década de 1990 desataron un proceso continuo a la baja en términos de producción e inversión. Al retirarse el gobierno de la industria, el enfoque estratégico de la industria petroquímica paraestatal se desvaneció con el tiempo. Las consecuencias negativas son vastas aunque poco discutidas. La falta de producción interna de materia prima en la petroquímica debilitó las cadenas nacionales de valor, tales como los fertilizantes y los plásticos, y llevó a un aumento preocupante de importaciones. Este artículo da cuenta de la trayectoria en el desarrollo de la rama petroquímica de Pemex y discute los cambios de política que México ha emprendido en fechas recientes.
Improving nutritional status among urban poor children in sub‐Saharan Africa: An evidence‐informed Delphi‐based consultation
Authors: Mutisya Maurice , Markey Oonagh , Rousham Emily K. , Chintsanya Jesman M. N. , Pradeilles Rebecca , Kimani‐Murage Elizabeth W. , Madise Nyovani J. , Munthali Alister C. , Kalimbira Alexander , Holdsworth Michelle , Griffiths Paula L. , Haycraft Emma
Published: November 2020

In sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), rapid urbanisation coupled with the high prevalence of infant and young child (IYC) undernutrition in low‐income settings means that interventions to support IYC nutrition are a priority. Little is known about how urbanisation influences IYC feeding (IYCF) practices, and evidence‐based interventions to improve IYC health/nutrition in the urban poor are lacking. Therefore, this research aimed to (a) systematically review evidence on interventions for improving the nutritional status of IYC aged 6–23 months living in urban poor areas (PROSPERO CRD42018091265) and (b) engage stakeholders to identify the highest ranking evidence gaps for improving IYCF programmes/policies. First, a rapid systematic review was conducted. This focused on the literature published regarding nutrition‐specific and nutrition‐sensitive complementary feeding interventions in urban poor areas, specifically low‐income informal settlements, in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Six intervention studies met the review inclusion criteria. Intervention adherence was generally high, and indicators of maternal knowledge and IYC nutritional intake typically increased because of the interventions, but the impact on anthropometric status was small. Second, stakeholders working across SSA were engaged via a Delphi‐based approach to identify priority areas for future intervention. Stakeholders reported that a situational analysis was required to better understand IYCF in urban poor areas, particularly the causes of IYC undernutrition, and highlighted the need to involve local communities in defining how future work should proceed. Together, these findings indicate a need for more evidence regarding IYCF and the factors that drive it in urban poor areas across LMIC settings, but particularly in SSA.
Role of the methionine cycle in the temperature‐sensitive responses of potato plants to potato virus Y
Authors: Fesenko Igor , Spechenkova Nadezhda , Mamaeva Anna , Makhotenko Antonida V. , Love Andrew J. , Kalinina Natalia O. , Taliansky Michael
Published: November 2020

Plant–virus interactions are greatly influenced by environmental factors such as temperatures. In virus‐infected plants, enhanced temperature is frequently associated with more severe symptoms and higher virus content. However, the mechanisms involved in such regulatory effects remain largely uncharacterized. To provide more insight into the mechanisms whereby temperature regulates plant–virus interactions, we analysed changes in the proteome of potato cv. Chicago plants infected with potato virus Y (PVY) at normal (22 °C) and elevated temperature (28 °C), which is known to significantly increase plant susceptibility to the virus. One of the most intriguing findings is that the main enzymes of the methionine cycle (MTC) were down‐regulated at the higher but not at normal temperatures. With good agreement, we found that higher temperature conditions triggered consistent and concerted changes in the level of MTC metabolites, suggesting that the enhanced susceptibility of potato plants to PVY at 28 °C may at least be partially orchestrated by the down‐regulation of MTC enzymes and concomitant cycle perturbation. In line with this, foliar treatment of these plants with methionine restored accumulation of MTC metabolites and subverted the susceptibility to PVY at elevated temperature. These data are discussed in the context of the major function of the MTC in transmethylation processes.
Changes in hemoglobin levels with age and altitude in preschool‐aged children in Peru: the assessment of two individual‐based national databases
Authors: Gonzales Gustavo F. , Tapia Vilma , Vásquez‐Velásquez Cinthya
Published: November 2020

According to the World Health Organization, the cutoff hemoglobin (Hb) value for defining anemia is 11 g/dL in preschool‐aged children, and Hb measurements should be corrected above an altitude of 1000 meters. This study sought to determine the altitude at which the Hb value increases compared with that at sea level, Hb changes with age and region in Peru, the prevalence of anemia according to three different models used to correct Hb for altitude, and the association of the Hb value with stunting. Two individual‐based Peruvian national databases were analyzed. Hb increased from an altitude of 375 meters. Hb concentration was lower at younger ages and higher at older ages. The increase in Hb with increasing altitude was lower in southern Peru. Implementing the different models for Hb measurement correction resulted in a higher and lower prevalence of anemia at altitudes >2500 and <2500 m, respectively, using the CDC adjustment. In children aged 6–23 months, the rate of stunting was lower in those with an Hb level of 10–12 g/dL (including mild anemia). In conclusion, the adjustment of Hb values for altitude should be considered before 1000 m and reference ranges should be adjusted to smaller groups of children instead of the same reference range for children aged 6–59 months.
Methylene blue‐mediated photodynamic therapy may be superior to 5% amorolfine nail lacquer for non‐dermatophyte onychomycosis
Authors: Bowornsathitchai Natthamon , Thammahong Arsa , Shoosanglertwijit Jittida , Kitsongsermthon Jutarat , Wititsuwannakul Jade , Asawanonda Pravit , Boontaveeyuwat Einapak
Published: November 2020

Background

Methylene blue‐mediated photodynamic therapy as an antimicrobial has been reported to improve onychomycosis.

Objectives

To compare the short‐term efficacy of methylene blue‐mediated photodynamic therapy (MB‐PDT) and 5% amorolfine nail lacquer (AMO) for toenail onychomycosis using higher intensity and shorter total treatment period than previously reported.

Methods

Twenty‐seven toenails with onychomycosis were randomized to receive either six biweekly sessions of MB‐PDT or AMO for twelve weeks. Dermoscopic photography was used for onychomycosis severity index assessment under a dermoscopic inspection (d‐OSI) at baseline, weeks 6, 10, 14 and 22 as well as microscopic and microbiological tests. Adverse events were recorded.

Results

All subjects completed the study. Causative organisms found were exclusively non‐dermatophytes including Fusarium spp., Asperillus spp.,and yeasts. Fifteen toenails received MB‐PDT, whilst 12 received AMO. D‐OSI showed greater improvement in MB‐PDT than in AMO groups at weeks 6, 10, 14 as well as 22, with median changes of −2, −3, −4 (P = .055). and − 3 respectively in the MB‐PDT group. The AMO group displayed the median d‐OSI change of 0 throughout the study period. Mycological cure rate at 22 weeks in MB‐PDT and AMO group was 73.3% and 66.67% (P > .05). Clinical cure rate at 22 weeks in MB‐PDT (26.7%) was higher than AMO (16.7%), (P > .05). All patients only felt comfortably warm during the MB‐PDT treatment. No major adverse events were found in both groups.

Conclusions

MB‐PDT appeared to be more efficacious for non‐dermatophyte onychomycosis than AMO particularly in a limited period and moderately severe onychomycosis.
Do Coefficients of Variation of Response Propensities Approximate Non-Response Biases During Survey Data Collection?
Authors: Moore Jamie C. , Durrant Gabriele B. , Smith Peter W. F.
Published: November 2020

We evaluate the utility of coefficients of variation of response propensities (CVs) as measures of risks of survey variable non-response biases when monitoring survey data collection. CVs quantify variation in sample response propensities estimated given a set of auxiliary attribute covariates observed for all subjects. If auxiliary covariates and survey variables are correlated, low levels of propensity variation imply low bias risk. CVs can also be decomposed to measure associations between auxiliary covariates and propensity variation, informing collection method modifications and post-collection adjustments to improve dataset quality. Practitioners are interested in such approaches to managing bias risks, but risk indicator performance has received little attention. We describe relationships between CVs and expected biases and how they inform quality improvements during and post-data collection, expanding on previous work. Next, given auxiliary information from the concurrent 2011 UK census and details of interview attempts, we use CVs to quantify the representativeness of the UK Labour Force Survey dataset during data collection. Following this, we use survey data to evaluate inference based on CVs concerning survey variables with analogues measuring the same quantities among the auxiliary covariate set. Given our findings, we then offer advice on using CVs to monitor survey data collection.
How to develop a condition‐specific PROM
Authors: Comins Jonathan D. , Brodersen John , Siersma Volkert , Jensen Jonas , Hansen Christian Fugl , Krogsgaard Michael R.
Published: November 2020

Developing new patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) for application in clinical studies can be necessary if an adequate PROM does not exist. For adequate measurement, it is essential that the PROM has face validity (ie, is perceived to be relevant by clinicians and researchers) and has high content validity (ie, content relevance and content coverage for the targeted patient group). The steps needed to create PROMs that possess face and content validity for a specific condition are described in this paper. Face validity is achieved by item identification and generation through literature review. Content validity is confirmed through repetitive cognitive interviews of patients from the targeted patient group in order to generate a consensus‐based pilot‐version of the new PROM. This qualitative process ensures that items are appropriately worded, understandable, and minimizes doubts about how items should be answered. A practical example of this process is presented, which shows the development of the Knee Numeric‐Entity Evaluation Score (KNEES‐ACL), a condition‐specific PROM for patients with deficiency of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
The Cultural Sources of Deception in Soccer: How Collectivism Affects the Number of Penalties in European Soccer Leagues
Authors: Lago Ignacio , Lago‐Peñas Carlos
Published: November 2020

Objectives

This article relies on data from 20,730 matches in 30 national soccer leagues in Europe to explore the determinants of penalties taken in elite soccer.

Methods

We run OLS cross‐sectional regressions using aggregated data.

Results

We find that the variation in the number of penalties given across European soccer leagues is largely explained by the individualism versus collectivism dimension.

Conclusions

The more (less) collectivistic (individualistic) the culture of the country, the more likely soccer players are to fall intentionally in the penalty area to increase the chances of a foul being called.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DPA1*01:42 allele by sequencing‐based typing
Authors: Cargou Marine , Andreani Marco , Galluccio Tiziana , Ralazamahaleo Mamy , Visentin Jonathan
Published: November 2020

HLA‐DPA1*01:42 differs from DPA1*01:03:01:02 by one nucleotide substitution in Codon 76 in Exon 2.
Genome evolution in Oryza allopolyploids of various ages: Insights into the process of diploidization
Authors: Zou Xinhui , Du Yusu , Wang Xin , Wang Qian , Zhang Bing , Chen Jinfeng , Chen Mingsheng , Doyle Jeff J. , Ge Song
Published: November 2020

The prevalence and recurrence of whole‐genome duplication in plants and its major role in evolution have been well recognized. Despite great efforts, many aspects of genome evolution, particularly the temporal progression of genomic responses to allopolyploidy and the underlying mechanisms, remain poorly understood. The rice genus Oryza consists of both recently formed and older allopolyploid species, representing an attractive system for studying the genome evolution after allopolyploidy. In this study, through screening BAC libraries and sequencing and annotating the targeted BAC clones, we generated orthologous genomic sequences surrounding the DEP1 locus, a major grain yield QTL in cultivated rice, from four Oryza polyploids of various ages and their likely diploid genome donors or close relatives. Based on sequenced DEP1 region and published data from three other genomic regions, we investigated the temporal evolutionary dynamics of four polyploid genomes at both genetic and expression levels. In the recently formed BBCC polyploid, Oryza minuta, genome dominance was not observed and its short‐term responses to allopolyploidy are mainly manifested as a high proportion of homoeologous gene pairs showing unequal expression. This could partly be explained by parental legacy, rewiring of divergent regulatory networks and epigenetic modulation. Moreover, we detected an ongoing diploidization process in this genus, and suggest that the expression divergence driven by changes of selective constraint probably plays a big role in the long‐term diploidization. These findings add novel insights into our understanding of genome evolution after allopolyploidy, and could facilitate crop improvements through hybridization and polyploidization.
Progressive retrocorneal pigmentation in dogs: A clinical report of 34 cases
Authors: Sanchez Rick F. , Everson Richard , Escanilla Natalia , Cebrian Prado , Slenter Inge J. M. , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Göerig Christiane
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To describe the signalment, ophthalmic examination findings, and follow‐up of dogs affected with a previously unreported retrocorneal pigmentary lesion.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective record evaluation spanning 2009‐2019.

Results

Retrocorneal pigmentary lesions were described in 34 patients (46 eyes). German Shepherds (n = 7), Jack Russel terriers (n = 5), and terrier crosses (n = 4) made up 16/34 (47.1%) of the cases. The mean age was 13.5 years (range 1.4‐14.2 years), and 16/30 (53.3%) dogs were female. Most dogs were affected unilaterally (22/34 (64.7%)), the others bilaterally, and 5/34 (14.7%) were referred for it while the others were incidentally diagnosed. The lesions affected the ventral, peripheral, inner cornea and had a round/undulated leading edge. The number of corneal clock hours affected was known for 41/46 (89.1%) eyes and involved 1‐3 clock hours in 32/41 (78.1%) eyes, 4‐6 in 6/41 (14.6%), 7‐9 in 2/41 (4.9%), and 10 in 1/41 (2.4%). The central cornea was affected in 9/46 (19.6%) eyes, and in 5/9 (55.6%), the median corneal clarity score was G2 (scale: G0‐G4). The commonest additional findings included free‐floating uveal cysts (11/34 dogs, 32.4%), cataracts (6/34 dogs, 17.6%), and primary glaucoma (5/34 dogs, 14.7%). Gonioscopy was available in 16/34 (47.1%) dogs and was normal except in primary glaucoma cases. Follow‐up was documented in 13/34 (38.2%) dogs with a mean follow‐up of 17 months (range: 5‐26 months). Lesion progression was documented in 6/13 (46.2%) dogs.

Conclusions

Retrocorneal pigmentation occurs as a slowly progressive lesion of older dogs that could impact vision. Histological studies of affected eyes are warranted.
Thermal-Hydraulic Performance of Circular Electronic Components With Parabolic and Hyperbolic Front Facing the Upstream Flow
Authors: Mahendra Ashwin , Kumar Rajendran Senthil
Published: November 2020

Thermal management of equipment is a very crucial step for optimum operation. This study is aimed at modifying the shape of traditionally circular electronic components to enhance their thermal-hydraulic performance. The frontal portions have been replaced with different profiles of conic sections such as parabola and hyperbola to understand the influence of frontal modification on fluid dynamics and heat transfer. The study has been carried out for confinement of 4d to mimic the confined fluid environment as in electronic chambers and the Reynolds numbers considered range from 60 to 500. The numerically simulated data were postprocessed and elucidated with the help of contour plots, various drag coefficients, total pressure drop, Strouhal number, and Nusselt number. The results claim that hyperbolic front with rear segment offers the best heat transfer with an improvement of 5.78% as compared to circular components, whereas the parabolic front has the best thermal-hydraulic performance. Parabolic profile reduces drag by 2.66% and improves heat transfer by 4.14%.
Modeling of a Wellhead Heating Methodology With Heat Pipes in Coal Mines
Authors: Zhang Hongyang , Li Kewen , Zhao Lipeng , Jia Lin , Kaita Mohammed , Wan Fusang
Published: November 2020

Many coal mines are located at the middle and high latitudes. In winter, coal mining facilities may be operated under the freezing conditions. Burning coal for hot water is usually used to heat up the facilities, which is not environmentally friendly and energy efficient. Currently, the ground source heat pumps and other new technologies have been applied for heating in coal mines and have achieved some success. However, the working characteristics and costs of these technologies are not suitable for the antifreeze at the wellhead. Heat pipe technology has the following advantages: automatic operation with the change of atmosphere temperature (AMT) and low cost of construction and maintenance, which can overcome the drawbacks of the aforementioned technologies. In this article, a heating system based on heat pipe technology has been designed and modeled. The system extracts heat from the shallow normal temperature zone (NTZ) to automatically heat the coal wellhead in winter. For the heating system, the effects of AMT, the temperature of NTZ, the frozen zone thickness (FZT), the thermal conductivity, and the heat pipe quantity (HPQ) on the heating performance have been modeled and investigated using comsol multiphysics. The modeling results have been analyzed and discussed. The modeling data showed that the system based on heat pipes could meet the antifreeze requirements for the designed system during the winter period. The wellhead heating system proposed in this article may achieve the purpose of replacing fossil energy with shallow geothermal energy.
Modular Design of an SMA Driven Continuum Robot
Authors: Goergen Yannik , Rizzello Gianluca , Seelecke Stefan , Motzki Paul
Published: November 2020

Due to their unique manipulation capabilities, continuum robots find applications in a variety of different areas, such as medical technology or maintenance and repair. When working with continuum robots, it is often necessary to bend the structure according to complex shapes. This is commonly achieved by arranging several individual modules in series. In this paper, a novel continuum robot concept is presented based on a serial arrangement of SMA (Shape Memory Alloy) wires actuated modules. The key advantage of the described modular continuum robot is the number of connection wires required to control the SMA wires, which is also independent of the number of modules. This feature makes it possible to virtually connect a very large number of serial modules, thus enabling to design continuum robots with arbitrary complexity. After outlining the concept, the mechanical and electrical components required to build one module of such an SMA driven continuum robot are introduced.
Development of a Shape Memory Alloy Actuator for a Micromechanical Sterilization Cycle Counter
Authors: Pagel Kenny , Esch Jonas , Hoffmann Daniel , Trautner Heiko , Herrlich Simon , Spieth Sven , Drossel Welf-Guntram
Published: November 2020

The steam sterilization of reusable medical instruments is a critical process. Standardized treatments with hot, saturated steam at maximum temperatures of up to 138 °C often represent a significant thermal load, which is repeated with varying number of cycles depending on the medical device. Until now, there is no possibility for medical device manufacturers to monitor how often a product has been sterilized. However, this is necessary for both safety and warranty issues, since according to the European Medical Device Regulation (EU-MDR), the manufacturer must specify how often a product can be sterilized.

In this paper the actuator approach for a micromechanical “sterilization cycle counter” is presented. It is designed to autonomously record, count and store steam sterilizations directly on the instrument by combining silicon micromechanics with shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators. This enables an autonomous operation without additional energy sources such as batteries. During the steam sterilization cycle, a certain temperature limit is exceeded once and detected by the SMA. The system development aims at the heterogeneous integration of standard SMA wires into a silicon microstructure. The transformation temperatures of the SMA is thereby increased to the relevant range by prestressing.

In detail, the paper first describes the approach of the counting mechanism and the possibilities and limitations of implementing and pretensioning of SMA wires in silicon microstructures. Based on that, the development of the SMA actuator geometry using an SMA Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model according to the approach of Aurichio is described. The model is validated using an up-scaled test bench of the system, in which various geometric parameters can be varied. Finally, the results will be discussed in particular regarding the MEMS process chain to be carried out in the next step.
Machine Design for Multiscale Nitinol Annealment Process and End Product Performance Analysis
Authors: Skalitzky Amanda , Coats Stuart , Farag Ramsis , Gurley Austin , Beale David
Published: November 2020

The functional properties of Nitinol (NiTi) are set by composition, production process, and post-production heat treatment and cold working. Post-production heat treating is dependent on two main parameters: anneal temperature and aging time. Most heat-treating processes performed by researchers generally consist of simple temperature soaks at specified aging times. However, there are drawbacks to this method. More complex heat treatments can result in performance improvements, but they are difficult to implement and often proprietary to manufacturers and therefore not widely used by researchers. By designing a Continuously-Fed heat treatment System (CFS), this work demystifies this complex heat-treatment process by rapidly heat-treating NiTi wire samples across a range of annealing temperatures, soak times, and tensions with little human intervention. This automated process ensures samples are created in a consistent manner and results in a much more consistent end-product when compared to conventional heat-treating methods. Using the CFS, a gamut of samples with varying annealing temperatures (400–550°C) and aging times (1–3 minutes) were created with 0.25mm diameter high-temperature actuator wire initially in the ‘as-drawn’ condition. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis was performed to determine how the transition temperature(s) change with the various heat-treating parameters and the mechanical properties of the wire were determined utilizing a tensile test. The experimental results demonstrate the benefits of the CFS and are compared to those of a more conventional heat treatment process. Experimental results show that high-performance Nitinol actuator behavior can consistently be achieved using the CFS. Optimal heat treatment processes can be determined quickly experimentally.
Piezoelectric Nonlinear Energy Sink for Broadband Attenuation of Nonlinear Vibrations
Authors: Moura Adriane G. , Dodson Jacob
Published: November 2020

We present a piezoelectric nonlinear energy sink (NES) framework for attenuation of nonlinear vibrations in a cantilever beam. The NES acts as a nonlinear piezoelectric shunt that implements linear components along with op-amp and multiplier nonlinear circuit elements to enable NES dynamics in the electrical domain. The piezoelectric NES was recently shown to provide wideband vibration attenuation in a cantilever undergoing linear mechanical vibrations. Following these recent efforts, we implement the piezoelectric NES to broadband attenuations of nonlinear vibrations of a thin cantilever beam. The model makes use of the linear modal parameters for the bimorph cantilever (PZT-5H patches connected in parallel) for the fundamental natural frequency obtained using the Rayleigh-Ritz method. Circuit parameters for the linear bimorph cantilever target frequency are obtained using harmonic balance analysis. The performance of the piezoelectric NES for broadband attenuation of nonlinear vibrations is evaluated and simulations are performed by modifying the structure (with a tip mass to move its resonance frequency) without tuning the NES circuit components. Simulations are presented for a range of acceleration levels and frequency ranges to demonstrate the broadband attenuation of the nonlinear vibrations using a single circuit configuration.
Development and Demonstration of an Orderly Recruitment Valve for Fluidic Artificial Muscles
Authors: Kim Jeong Yong , Mazzoleni Nicholas , Vemula Dheeraj , Bryant Matthew
Published: November 2020

Variable recruitment fluidic artificial muscle (FAM) bundles consist of multiple FAMs arranged in motor units that are sequentially activated as load demand increases. The conventional configuration of a variable recruitment FAM bundle requires a valve for each motor unit, which is referred to as a multi-valve system (MVS). As each motor unit within the bundle is selectively recruited, this configuration is highly adaptable and flexible in performance. However, as the number of motor units increases, the valve network can become complex and heavy in its design. To decrease complexity and weight, the concept of an orderly recruitment valve (ORV) has been proposed and analyzed. The ORV allows multiple motor units to be controlled using a single valve that recruits and pressurizes all motor units. The ORV concept consists of a spool valve with multiple outlet ports and a motor unit connected to each port. A linear actuator controls the position of the spool, allowing fluid flow into each port in succession. Naturally, de-recruitment happens in reverse order. The objective of the ORV is to strike a balance between performance and compactness of design. The purpose of this paper is to present analytical modeling that can be used to understand the behavior and performance of an ORV system and develop an experimental proof-of-concept that illustrates the ORV operation in hardware. A pneumatic ORV prototype was constructed and used to actuate two FAMs sequentially, each representing a motor unit. The results demonstrate the ORV as a compact system with which a variable recruitment bundle with multiple recruitment states can be controlled.
Fabrication of a 3D Bistable Composite
Authors: Akter Rizwana , Myers Oliver J.
Published: November 2020

Bistable composites have created much attention in engineering applications because of its ability to sustain two stable shapes. A systematic layup of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) causes bistability in a lamina. The transition from one stable shape to another is occurred by snap-through and snap-back process. Due to their adaptive nature a lot of study has been conducted on a 2D laminate for over the past 30 years. However, fabrication of a 3D model that exhibits bistability is yet to be explored. In this research we fabricated a 3D bistable composite structure having two parallel cross-ply square laminates connected by a rigid tab at one edge. The entire structure exhibits bistability when the two laminates are actuated simultaneously. The parallel laminates are also independent when actuated individually, making the model achieve four independent stable shapes. Our goal is to understand the bistable behavior and predict the degree of curvature and the snap through response of the solid structure. This paper discusses the fabrication of a solid composite structure that can be further analyzed numerically by creating an FEA model using ABAQUS. The simulation results could be validated experimentally. In this research we also aim to put together an analytical model of this 3D laminate structure. Successful fabrication and mathematical analysis of our 3D laminate using carbon fiber reinforced polymer will hopefully inspire additive manufacturing of bistable composite structure that will lead to more complicated design of bistable materials with more morphing characteristics.