bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Virtual Consultations in Plastic Surgery During COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Sinha Vikram , Malik Mohsan , Nugent Nora , Drake Paul , Cavale Naveen
Published: August 2020

Background

COVID-19 has led to government enforced ‘lockdown’ in the UK severely limiting face-to-face patient interaction. Virtual consultations present a means for continued patient access to health care. Our aim was to evaluate the use of virtual consultations (VCons) during lockdown and their possible role in the future.

Methods

An anonymous survey was disseminated to UK and European plastic surgeons via social media, email sharing and via the European Association of Societies of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery newsletter. Uptake of VCons, modality, effectiveness, safety and future utility were assessed.

Results

Forty-three senior plastic surgeons responded to the survey. The majority of the respondents (97.7%) reported using VCons during COVID-19 lockdown, of which 74.4% had no prior experience. Two-thirds of surgeons utilised commercial platforms such as Zoom, FaceTime and Skype, 38.1% of respondents did not know about or were unsure about adequate encryption for health care use, and just under a half (47.6%) reported they were unaware of or lacking GDPR compliance. Most (97.6%) say they are likely to use virtual consultations after lockdown.

Conclusion

Virtual consultations have had a crucial role in patient care during UK lockdown. It is clear that they will serve as an adjunct to face-to-face consultation in the future. Further regulation is required to ensure platforms offer adequate safety and security measures and are compliant with relevant data protection laws.

Level of Evidence IV

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.
Cerebral blood flow decrease as an early pathological mechanism in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Korte Nils , Nortley Ross , Attwell David
Published: August 2020

Therapies targeting late events in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), including aggregation of amyloid beta (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau, have largely failed, probably because they are given after significant neuronal damage has occurred. Biomarkers suggest that the earliest event in AD is a decrease of cerebral blood flow (CBF). This is caused by constriction of capillaries by contractile pericytes, probably evoked by oligomeric Aβ. CBF is also reduced by neutrophil trapping in capillaries and clot formation, perhaps secondary to the capillary constriction. The fall in CBF potentiates neurodegeneration by upregulating the BACE1 enzyme that makes Aβ and by promoting tau hyperphosphorylation. Surprisingly, therefore, CBF reduction may play a crucial role in driving cognitive decline by initiating the amyloid cascade itself, or being caused by and amplifying Aβ production. Here, we review developments in this area that are neglected in current approaches to AD, with the aim of promoting novel mechanism-based therapeutic approaches.
Rotational range of motion of elliptical and spherical heads in shoulder arthroplasty: a dynamic biomechanical evaluation
Authors: Muench Lukas N. , Otto Alexander , Kia Cameron , Obopilwe Elifho , Cote Mark P. , Imhoff Andreas B. , Beitzel Knut , Mazzocca Augustus D. , Mehl Julian
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Elliptical shape humeral head prostheses have been proposed to reflect a more anatomic shoulder replacement. Its effect on the rotational range of motion (ROM) compared to a standard spherical head is still not understood. The purpose was to investigate if there would be a difference in rotational ROM when comparing elliptical and spherical prosthetic heads in a dynamic shoulder model. The authors hypothesized that the use of elliptical heads would result in significantly more rotational ROM compared to the spherical head design.

Materials and methods

Six fresh-frozen, cadaveric shoulders were evaluated using a dynamic shoulder model. After being tested in the native condition, each specimen underwent 6 conditions in the hemiarthroplasty state: (1) matched-fit spherical head, (2) oversized spherical head, (3) undersized spherical head, (4) matched-fit elliptical head, (5) oversized elliptical head, and (6) undersized elliptical head. Following conversion to total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), the 6 prior conditions were rerun. Each condition was tested at 0°, 30° and 60° of glenohumeral abduction. Rotational ROM was quantified using 3-dimensional tracking, while dynamically applying alternating forces for internal and external rotation via the rotator cuff tendons.

Results

Elliptical and spherical prosthetic heads showed no significant difference in the degree of the total, internal, and external rotational ROM for both the hemiarthroplasty and TSA state. Conversion from hemiarthroplasty to TSA resulted in less degree of total rotational ROM for both head designs in all abduction positions, without reaching statistical significance. There was a significant decrease in total, internal, and external rotational ROM for both elliptical and spherical heads in every replacement condition, when comparing 0° to 30° and 60° of abduction (P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusion

In a dynamic shoulder model, elliptical and spherical prosthetic head designs showed no significant difference in the degree of the total, internal, and external rotational ROM in both the hemiarthroplasty and TSA state.

Level of evidence

Controlled laboratory study
Squamous cell cancer of the temporal bone: a review of the literature
Authors: Lechner Matt , Sutton Liam , Murkin Charlotte , Masterson Liam , O’Flynn Paul , Wareing Michael J. , Tatla Taranjit , Saeed Shakeel
Published: August 2020

Background and aims

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the temporal bone is a rare malignancy accounting for only 0.2% of head and neck cancers. There is currently no clear consensus on staging or common approach to management. It is the aim of this work to provide the readers with a review of the current literature on this malignancy.

Methods

A literature review was performed identifying 16 case series with patient numbers ranging from 12 to 124. A total of 708 patients were included in this review, 67% presented with advanced disease. 578 cases were managed operatively with lateral temporal bone resection, some underwent local resection alone in early stage disease. In all studies radiation therapy was used as an adjunct to some degree.

Results

More than half of studies reported 100% either 2-, 3- or 5-year survival for T1 and T2 disease with no nodal involvement. Survival correlated with disease stage and in five studies SCC differentiation was found to be a significant prognostic factor. Post-operative radiotherapy was found to improve survival in only one study.

Conclusions

Temporal bone SCC is a readily treatable malignancy in early stage disease, however late stage disease has a poor prognosis. Differentiation of the SCC and stage of disease at presentation appear to have the greatest influence on 5-year survival rates. Further work is required in both the identification of early stage disease and in the treatment of later T3 and T4 lesions.
Gamma-delta T cells stimulate IL-6 production by pancreatic stellate cells in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Seifert Adrian M. , List Julian , Heiduk Max , Decker Rahel , von Renesse Janusz , Meinecke Ann-Christin , Aust Daniela E. , Welsch Thilo , Weitz Jürgen , Seifert Lena
Published: August 2020

Introduction

The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment promotes progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). γδ T cells infiltrate the pancreatic tumor stroma and support tumorigenesis through αβ T cell inhibition. Pancreatic stellate cell (PSC) activation contributes to pancreatic fibrosis in PDAC, limiting the delivery and efficacy of therapeutic agents. Whether γδ T cells have direct effects on PSC activation is unknown.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed tumor tissue from 68 patients with PDAC and determined the frequency and location of γδ T cells using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. PDAC samples from the TCGA database with low and high TRGC2 expression were correlated with the expression of extracellular matrix genes. Further, PSCs were isolated from pancreatic tumor tissue and co-cultured with γδ T cells for 48 hours and cytokine production was measured using a cytometric bead array.

Results

γδ T cells infiltrated the pancreatic tumor stroma and were located in proximity to PSCs. A high infiltration of γδ T cells was associated with increased expression of several extracellular matrix genes in human PDAC. In vitro, γδ T cells stimulated IL-6 production by PDAC-derived PSCs.

Conclusion

γδ T cells activated PSCs and modulation of this interaction may enhance the efficacy of combinational therapies in human PDAC.
Genetics and phenotypic heterogeneity of Dent disease: the dark side of the moon
Authors: Gianesello Lisa , Del Prete Dorella , Anglani Franca , Calò Lorenzo A.
Published: August 2020

Dent disease is a rare genetic proximal tubulopathy which is under-recognized. Its phenotypic heterogeneity has led to several different classifications of the same disorder, but it is now widely accepted that the triad of symptoms low-molecular-weight proteinuria, hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis/nephrolithiasis are pathognomonic of Dent disease. Although mutations on the CLCN5 and OCRL genes are known to cause Dent disease, no such mutations are found in about 25–35% of cases, making diagnosis more challenging. This review outlines current knowledge regarding Dent disease from another perspective. Starting from the history of Dent disease, and reviewing the clinical details of patients with and without a genetic characterization, we discuss the phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity that typifies this disease. We focus particularly on all those confounding clinical signs and symptoms that can lead to a misdiagnosis. We also try to shed light on a concealed aspect of Dent disease. Although it is a proximal tubulopathy, its misdiagnosis may lead to patients undergoing kidney biopsy. In fact, some individuals with Dent disease have high-grade proteinuria, with or without hematuria, as in the clinical setting of glomerulopathy, or chronic kidney disease of uncertain origin. Although glomerular damage is frequently documented in Dent disease patients’ biopsies, there is currently no reliable evidence of renal biopsy being of either diagnostic or prognostic value. We review published histopathology reports of tubular and glomerular damage in these patients, and discuss current knowledge regarding the role of CLCN5 and OCRL genes in glomerular function.
Space–Time Variational Multiscale Isogeometric Analysis of a tsunami-shelter vertical-axis wind turbine
Authors: Otoguro Yuto , Mochizuki Hiroki , Takizawa Kenji , Tezduyar Tayfun E.
Published: August 2020

We present computational flow analysis of a vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) that has been proposed to also serve as a tsunami shelter. In addition to the three-blade rotor, the turbine has four support columns at the periphery. The columns support the turbine rotor and the shelter. Computational challenges encountered in flow analysis of wind turbines in general include accurate representation of the turbine geometry, multiscale unsteady flow, and moving-boundary flow associated with the rotor motion. The tsunami-shelter VAWT, because of its rather high geometric complexity, poses the additional challenge of reaching high accuracy in turbine-geometry representation and flow solution when the geometry is so complex. We address the challenges with a space–time (ST) computational method that integrates three special ST methods around the core, ST Variational Multiscale (ST-VMS) method, and mesh generation and improvement methods. The three special methods are the ST Slip Interface (ST-SI) method, ST Isogeometric Analysis (ST-IGA), and the ST/NURBS Mesh Update Method (STNMUM). The ST-discretization feature of the integrated method provides higher-order accuracy compared to standard discretization methods. The VMS feature addresses the computational challenges associated with the multiscale nature of the unsteady flow. The moving-mesh feature of the ST framework enables high-resolution computation near the blades. The ST-SI enables moving-mesh computation of the spinning rotor. The mesh covering the rotor spins with it, and the SI between the spinning mesh and the rest of the mesh accurately connects the two sides of the solution. The ST-IGA enables more accurate representation of the blade and other turbine geometries and increased accuracy in the flow solution. The STNMUM enables exact representation of the mesh rotation. A general-purpose NURBS mesh generation method makes it easier to deal with the complex turbine geometry. The quality of the mesh generated with this method is improved with a mesh relaxation method based on fiber-reinforced hyperelasticity and optimized zero-stress state. We present computations for the 2D and 3D cases. The computations show the effectiveness of our ST and mesh generation and relaxation methods in flow analysis of the tsunami-shelter VAWT.
A new approach for the identification of gas hydrate in marine sediments
Authors: Tian Dongmei , Liu Xuewei
Published: August 2020

It has always been the focus of researchers to accurately identify gas hydrate location. Geophysical prospecting is a widely used method for gas hydrate exploration, which has high credibility, especially seismic exploration technology is most generally used. In our study, we analyze the different physical properties of gas hydrate and other minerals bearing in unconsolidated marine sediments based on the effective medium theory. Then, a new attribute is put forward to discriminate gas hydrate. The logging data in the Dongsha area of the South China Sea and the Hydrate Ridge along the Oregon continental margin are applied to validate this method. Our test results are basically in line with actual situation, which provides a new approach in hydrate identification.
Does entrepreneurship ecosystem influence business re-entries after failure?
Authors: Guerrero Maribel , Espinoza-Benavides Jorge
Published: August 2020

Previous studies have found a close relationship between exit/failure decisions and entrepreneurial/organisational characteristics. In the same line, entrepreneurship literature has recognised that the context matters in any entrepreneurial process, including “exit,” “failure” or “re-entry.” This manuscript proposes a conceptual framework to identify the elements of the entrepreneurial ecosystem that foster or impede the re-entry into entrepreneurship after a business failure. By reviewing the accumulation of knowledge, we identified the individual, the organisational, and the contextual conditions that influence the trajectory of an individual who decides to re-enter after a business failure. This manuscript provides a better understanding of the critical role of agents involved in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. A provocative discussion and implications emerge for this study in order to reduce individual barriers and unfavourable social norms towards business failure.
Specific Patterns of Spinal Metabolite Ratio Underlying α-Me-5-HT-evoked Pruritus Compared with Compound 48/80 Based on Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Chen Ying-le , He Zhi-gang , Wang Qian , Xiang Hong-bing , Fan Li , Xiong Jun
Published: August 2020

Mechanisms of pruritus are implicated in the dysregulation of the metabolites in the spinal cord. We investigated pruritus behavioral testing in three groups of young adult male C57Bl/6 mice, including one group treated with normal saline, while the other groups intradermally injected with α-Me-5-HT (histamine-independent pruritogen), compound 48/80 (histamine-dependent pruritogen) at the nape skin of the neck, respectively. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) was used to compare spinal metabolites from the vertebral cervical among three groups, and to study the association of spinal metabolite ratio and pruritus intensity. The MRS-measured N-acetylaspartate-to-myoinositol ratio (NAA/Ins) was significantly correlated with the number of scratches between normal saline group and 48/80 group or α-Me-5-HT group (both P<0.0001), indicating that NAA/Ins may be a robust surrogate marker of histamine-independent/dependent pruritogen. There was significant difference in Glu/Ins between normal saline group and 48/80 group (P=0.017), indicating that Glu/Ins may be a surrogate marker of histamine-dependent pruritogen, while GABA/Ins was highly significantly different between normal saline group and α-Me-5-HT group (P=0.008), suggesting that GABA/Ins may be a surrogate marker of histamine-independent pruritogen. MRS may reflect the extent of pruritus intensity elicited by α-Me-5-HT and compound 48/80 with sensitivity similar to the number of scratches, and above potential markers need to be further validated in pre-clinical and clinical treatment trials.
Emerging Treatments for Advanced/Metastatic Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma
Authors: Ilanchezhian Maran , Jha Abhishek , Pacak Karel , Del Rivero Jaydira
Published: August 2020

Opinion statement

The incidence of metastatic pheochromocytoma (PHEO) and paraganglioma (PGL) may occur in as many as 35% of patients particularly with PGL and even more frequently in those with specific mutations. Biochemical, morphological, and molecular markers have been investigated for use in the distinction of benign from malignant PHEO/PGL. PHEO/PGL metastasizes via hematogenous or lymphatic routes and shows differences based on mutational status. The most common sites of involvement in patients that have an SDHB mutation are the bone (78%), lungs (45%), lymph nodes (36%), and liver (35%). In patients with sporadic PHEO/PGL, the most common sites of metastasis are the bones (64%), lungs (47%), lymph nodes (36%), and liver (32%). Metastases may be present at presentation or may occur later. Metastases to the liver and lungs are associated with a shorter survival. Overall, the estimated 5-year survival rates are between 34 and 74%. Currently, treatments for metastatic PHEO/PGL are essentially palliative. Surgery is potentially curative; however, tumor dissemination limits the chance for a curative resection. When surgical intervention is not amenable, the therapeutic options include radiolabeled MIBG (Azedra®—iobenguane 131 was recently FDA-approved for patients > 12 years and older with iobenguane scan positive) or systemic chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and dacarbazine (CVD) with an overall objective response rate (ORR) of less than 40%; however, it is not clear if the administration of CVD impacts overall survival, as nearly all patients develop progressive and ultimately fatal disease. Other treatment modalities under investigation include cytoreductive techniques, novel radiopharmaceuticals, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and experimental therapies. Here we are discussing emerging treatment for advanced/metastatic PHEO/PGL.
Rock physics attribute analysis for hydrocarbon prospectivity in the Eva field onshore Niger Delta Basin
Authors: Ogbamikhumi Alexander , Igbinigie Nosa Samuel
Published: August 2020

Direct hydrocarbon indicator (DHI) expressions observed on seismic could arise due to various geological conditions. Such expression could lead to misinterpretation as hydrocarbon presence if not properly analyzed. This study employs rock physics attributes analysis to evaluate an identified prospect in the undrilled area of the studied reservoir. Prospect identification was actualized by analyzing structural and amplitude maps of the reservoir, which revealed a possible roll over anticline at both the exploited and prospective zone, with a very good amplitude support that conforms to structure. Well-based cross-plot analysis adopted four cross-plot techniques for feasibility study to test the applicability of rock physics for prospect evaluation in the field; Lambda-Rho versus Lambda-Rho/Mu-Rho ratio; Mu-Rho versus Lambda-Rho; and Poisson Ratio versus P-impedance. The result presented Poisson ratio, Lambda-Rho and Lambda/Mu-Rho ratio as good fluid indicator and Mu-Rho as a viable lithology indicator. As such, they were selected for seismic-based attribute and cross-plot analysis to validate the identified prospect. The results from seismic-based analysis showed consistency in the expression of the analyzed attribute at both the exploited and prospective zone. The seismic-based cross-plot analysis result was similar to the well-based analysis and was able to confirm that the observed amplitude expression in the exploited zone is an indication of hydrocarbon-bearing sand.
Book Review: None of the Above: Nonreligious Identity in the US and Canada
Authors: Cragun Ryan T.
Published: August 2020

In their new book, None of the Above, Joel Thiessen and Sarah Wilkins-Laflamme provide detailed descriptions and comparisons of individuals with no religious affiliation (i.e., “nones”) in both the US and Canada. Scholars who are familiar with the increasingly robust literature on nonreligion will find that this book reinforces much of we know while adding important nuance and a comparative perspective between the US and Canada. For researchers who are less familiar with the literature on nonreligion, None of the Above provides a cutting edge overview of the current state of this area of research.
Some algebraic structures on the generalization general products of monoids and semigroups
Authors: Wazzan Suha Ahmad , Cevik Ahmet Sinan , Ates Firat
Published: August 2020

For arbitrary monoidsAandB, in Cevik et al. (Hacet J Math Stat 2019:1–11, 2019), it has been recently defined an extended version of the general product under the name ofa higher version of Zappa products for monoids(orgeneralized general product)$$A^{\oplus B}$$A⊕B$$_{\delta }\bowtie _{\psi }B^{\oplus A}$$δ⋈ψB⊕Aand has been introduced an implicit presentation as well as some theories in terms of finite and infinite cases for this product. The goals of this paper are to present some algebraic structures such as regularity, inverse property, Green’s relations over this new generalization, and to investigate some other properties and the product obtained by a left restriction semigroup and a semilattice.
Quality of life in Klinefelter patients on testosterone replacement therapy compared to healthy controls: an observational study on the impact of psychological distress, personality traits, and coping strategies
Authors: Fabrazzo M. , Accardo G. , Abbondandolo I. , Goglia G. , Esposito D. , Sampogna G. , Catapano F. , Giugliano D. , Pasquali D.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

We aimed to verify if 1 year-testosterone-replacement therapy could produce a psychopathological recovery and a satisfactory quality of life in Klinefelter syndrome (KS) patients compared to matched healthy controls. Further, we analyzed personality traits and coping strategies, an issue not yet examined in androgen-treated KS patients. We also enquired whether any of the sociodemographic and psychological variables might predict a patient’s general and sexual life satisfaction.

Methods

The Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Temperament and Character Inventory-Revised were administered to both 23 KS patients and matched healthy subjects. Psychopathology was investigated by the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) and the Mini-mental State Examination. The COPE Inventory was used to identify cognitive and behavioral strategies to manage disease-related distress.

Results

In testosterone-treated KS patients, when compared with controls, SCL-90-R subscales analysis evidenced high psychological distress, mainly presented as obsessive thoughts, hanger-hostility, phobias, and psychoticism. Self-directedness and self-transcendence, along with the prevalent use of emotion-focused coping strategies, outlined the personality of our KS patients. Depression and somatization proved to be predictors of general life dissatisfaction. Depression, anger-hostility, and paranoid ideation, instead, emerged as predictors of sexual life dissatisfaction.

Conclusion

Endocrinologists should cooperate with mental health providers to foster a better outcome of the disease in KS patients.
Multitasking scheduling with batch distribution and due date assignment
Authors: Xu Xinrui , Yin Guangqiang , Wang Chunyu
Published: August 2020

This study addresses the multitasking scheduling problems with batch distribution and due date assignment (DDA). Compared with classical scheduling problems with due date-related optimization functions, the job due dates are decision variables rather than given parameters. The jobs completed are distributed in batches, and the sizes of all batches are identical, which may be bounded or unbounded. The jobs in every batch are scheduled one by one. Each batch incurs a fixed cost. Under multitasking environment, it allows the machine to put an uncompleted job on hold and turn to another uncompleted job. The goal is to identify the optimal primary job sequence, the optimal job due dates, and the optimal batch production and distribution strategy so that one of the following two optimization functions is minimised: the total cost composed of the earliness penalty, DDA cost, tardiness penalty and batch distribution cost, and the total cost composed of the earliness penalty, weighted number of late jobs, DDA cost and batch distribution cost. We devise efficient exact algorithms for the problems we consider, and perform numerical experiments to check how multitasking affects the scheduling cost or value, the results of which can assist decision-makers to justify the extent to put to use or refrain from multitasking.
Adsorption control of a pipeline robot based on improved PSO algorithm
Authors: Yu Yilin , Xu Yanli , Wang Fusheng , Li Wensheng , Mai Xiaoming , Wu Hao
Published: August 2020

Particle swarm optimization (PSO) is a widely used method that can provide good parameters for the motion controller of mobile robots. In this paper, an improved PSO algorithm that optimize the control PID parameters of a specific robot have been proposed. This paper first presents a brief review of recently proposed PSO methods, and then presents a detailed analysis of the PID optimization algorithm, which uses H∞ theory to reduce the search space and fuses the information entropy to ensure the diversity of particles. Simulations in Matlab show that the algorithm can improve the convergence speed and get a better global optimization ability than the standard PSO algorithm. Experimental results present a sound effects for the control of the negative pressure adsorption motor in the power grid pipeline robot during its adsorption along the circular movements, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Role of oxidative stress in epileptogenesis and potential implications for therapy
Authors: Borowicz-Reutt Kinga K. , Czuczwar Stanisław J.
Published: August 2020

In a state of balance between oxidants and antioxidants, free radicals play an advantageous role of “redox messengers”. In a state of oxidative stress, they trigger a cascade of events leading to epileptogenesis. During this latent, free of seizures period, a cascade of neurological changes takes place and finally leads to spontaneous recurrent seizures. The main processes involved in seizure generation are: neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration with anomalous neuroregeneration and lowering seizure threshold. Time of epileptogenesis offers a unique therapeutic window to prevent or at least attenuate seizure development. Animal data indicate that some antioxidants (for instance, resveratrol) may bear an anti-epileptogenic potential.
Spot-On Creativity: Creativity Biases and Their Differential Effects on Consumer Responses in (Non-)Real-Time Marketing
Authors: Mazerant Komala , Willemsen Lotte M. , Neijens Peter C. , van Noort Guda
Published: August 2020

A challenge in digital content marketing is to create meaningful messages on meaningful moments. To do so, brands frequently align social media messages with topical moments, also known as Real-time Marketing (RTM). While RTM aims to make meaningful connections, the creative development is subject to time pressure due to its real-time nature, which could have a negative effect on originality and craftsmanship, two other creativity dimensions besides meaningfulness which drive consumer responses. We address this tension by examining the creative crafting of RTM on Instagram and its consequences. Based on a content analysis of 516 Instagram messages, we indeed found a meaningfulness bias for RTM, such that meaningfulness comes at the expense of originality and craftsmanship. However, the findings from the content analysis, as well as an additional experiment ( N = 245), showed that only craftsmanship and originality, and not meaningfulness, positively induced consumer responses. Implications are discussed.
A Survey of Usage of Penile Prosthesis
Authors: Knoll Paul , Rai Samarpit , Talluri Sriharsha , Bezinque Adam , Micciche Ross , Rao Ganesh , Ankem Murali K.
Published: August 2020

Background

Implantation of an inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) has high success and satisfaction rates, but there remains a paucity of evidence examining non-usage of IPP and reasons for discontinuation.

Aim

To identify how frequent patients use their prosthesis and their personal reasons for no longer using it.

Methods

We conducted a survey of all patients who underwent an IPP implantation by a single surgeon over a 6-year period, between 2012 and 2018. After application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 114 patients formed the final cohort. Patients were initially surveyed via mail with a questionnaire; those who did not respond were surveyed via telephone. The factors determining patient selection for IPP implantation included suitability for general anesthesia, manual dexterity to use the device by the patient or their partner on a demonstration device, and presence of refractory erectile dysfunction, HbA1C lower than 8.5, or need for a revision of a previously placed IPP. Universally, a 3-piece AMS 700 Series implant was placed via the penoscrotal approach. Data were analyzed with Pearson chi square test, and survivability of the device was assessed with Kaplan-Meier survival curve.

Outcomes

The main outcomes of this study are the frequency of IPP usage and reasons for discontinuation.

Results

The survey participation rate was 97%. The mean age of patient was 64 years (range 34–83 years), and the mean time between surgery and completion of survey was 2.98 years (range 0.25–7.4 years). Kaplan-Meier curve demonstrated that 68% of the patients were using the IPP at 5 years after implantation. Using the age 70 years as a cutoff, 18 (22%) patients younger than 70 years and 14 (42%) patients older than 70 years discontinued using the IPP (P = .029). The commonest reasons for discontinuation were poor health to engage in sexual activity (2.6%), loss of companion (19%), loss of interest in sex (2.6%), and device malfunction with no further interest in revision of prosthesis (14%).

Clinical Implications

The clinical implication of this study was improved patient selection for device implantation.

Strengths and Limitations

To our knowledge, no other study has investigated reasons for patients no longer using their prosthesis. Our study has several limitations including that it is a cross-sectional analysis, our survey is not validated, this is a single-surgeon experience, we have a small sample size, and we did not differentiate between virgin implant and reimplantation.

Conclusion

Our study shows a high rate (28%) of non-usage of IPP, more so in men older than the age of 70 years in the first 5 years of implantation.
Synthesizing the Vertical Structure of Tropical Cirrus by Combining CloudSat Radar Reflectivity With In Situ Microphysical Measurements Using Bayesian Monte Carlo Integration
Authors: Liu Yuli , Mace Gerald G.
Published: August 2020

Creating synthetic ice cloud profiles that are distributed according to realistic probability density functions is fundamentally essential for submillimeter wave radiometer studies. In this paper, we develop an algorithm to create synthetic ice cloud profiles by combing in situ microphysics measurements and spaceborne radar reflectivity observations using Bayesian Monte Carlo Integration (MCI). We first conduct comprehensive studies of the in situ data from the Tropical Composition, Cloud and Climate Coupling (TC4) experiment based on a bimodal particle size distribution (PSD) scheme and the realistic particle scattering properties for different crystal habits. Ice water content and radar reflectivity simulations from the in situ PSD are compared with the in situ measurements qualitatively and quantitatively. We then evaluate the Bayesian MCI by applying the algorithm to the Cloud Radar System (CRS) during the TC4 campaign and compare the brightness temperature simulations for the retrievals with the Compact Scanning Submillimeter Imaging Radiometer (CoSSIR) measurements. Finally, we apply the Bayesian MCI to the Cloud Profiling Radar (CPR) measurements on CloudSat, and we use the cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) and empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs) to preserve the one‐point statistics and the two‐point statistics that allow for the creation of any number of synthetic ice cloud profiles that are statistically consistent with the Bayesian retrieval results. The synthesized profiles are a useful characterization of the ice cloud vertical structure that combines two disparate data sources, and the synthesis algorithm constitutes an essential initial step for producing critical information in submillimeter radiometry studies.
Contributions of Global Warming and Urbanization to the Intensification of Human‐Perceived Heatwaves Over China
Authors: Kong Dongdong , Gu Xihui , Li Jianfeng , Ren Guoyu , Liu Jianyu
Published: August 2020

Urbanization and global warming are the two major drivers of the warming environment in cities. The contributions of urbanization and global warming to the past occurrence of human‐perceived heatwaves (HWs) over China are evaluated in this study. Both observations and model simulations show HWs have become more intensive, longer‐lasting, and more frequent in recent decades. Urbanization and greenhouse gases contribute to 21.9% and 72.9% of the intensification of HWs, respectively. The occurrence probability of observed human‐perceived HWs has doubled over 1961–2012 and is projected to be about 4.36/5.92 times under the 1.5/2°C warming relative to the preindustrial level. At the 3.5°C warming, the average duration of HWs is projected to increase to 43.63 days/year, and the occurrence probability is expected to increase by 11.95 times, 91% of which is attributable to human‐induced warming. The highest sensitivity of the increases in HWs due to human‐induced warming is in Southern China.
Influence of Clay Wettability Alteration on Relative Permeability
Authors: Fan Ming , McClure James E. , Armstrong Ryan T. , Shabaninejad Mehdi , Dalton Laura E. , Crandall Dustin , Chen Cheng
Published: August 2020

Understanding the wettability of porous materials is important to model fluid flow in the subsurface. One of the critical factors that influences wetting in real reservoirs is the composition of geologic materials. The wetting properties for clay minerals can have a particularly strong impact on flow and transport. In this work, we analyze the chemical composition of a Mt. Simon sandstone core to resolve the microscopic structure of clay regions and assess how alterations to the local wetting properties influence multiphase transport based on core flooding experiments and relative permeability simulations. We show that whichever fluid has greater affinity toward clay minerals will tend to accumulate within these high surface area regions, leading to dramatic shifts in the relative permeability. This work establishes the essential importance of the mineral composition and associated wetting properties in the modeling of flow and transport in reservoir‐scale systems.
Dynamics of Gas Bubbles From a Submarine Hydrocarbon Seep Within the Hydrate Stability Zone
Authors: Wang Binbin , Jun Inok , Socolofsky Scott A. , DiMarco Steven F. , Kessler John D.
Published: August 2020

We validate a new model for mass transfer and bubble transport for natural seeps on the continental margins using an integrated observation of a seep at 883 m in the Northern Gulf of Mexico. In the model, mass transfer is assumed to transition from clean to dirty bubble mass transfer rates following a characteristic hydrate formation time that depends on the initial bubble surface area and the hydrate subcooling. We show that buoyancy‐induced upwelling is negligible for the bubble stream. We initialize the model using precise data observed at the seafloor and validate the model results to optical and acoustic measurements within the bubble stream. The model accurately predicts the acoustic attenuation of the bubble flare by lateral spreading and bubble shrinkage throughout the water column. The model shows that up to 99.4% by mass of the released gases from this seep dissolves into the ocean within the hydrate stability zone.
Sources of the Intermodel Spread in Projected Global Monsoon Hydrological Sensitivity
Authors: Cao Jian , Wang Bo , Wang Bin , Zhao Haikun , Wang Chao , Han Ying
Published: August 2020

The projected monsoon hydrological sensitivity, namely, the precipitation change rate per kelvin of global warming, shows substantial intermodel spread among 40 Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 5 models. The hydrological sensitivity of the Northern Hemisphere summer monsoon is negatively correlated with that of the Southern Hemisphere summer monsoon. The intermodel spread of the Northern Hemisphere summer monsoon hydrological sensitivity is mainly attributed to the projected interhemispheric temperature gradients and the associated low‐level cross‐equatorial flows. The intermodel spread of the Afro‐Asia summer monsoon sensitivity is rooted in the projected continent‐ocean thermal gradients, while the spread of the North American monsoon sensitivity is related to the projected sea surface temperature pattern in the tropical eastern Pacific and Atlantic. These findings suggest that further constraining monsoon hydrological sensitivity requires a better projection of the warming rate between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and between the land and ocean, and the sea surface warming pattern in the tropical eastern Pacific and Atlantic.
Characterizing Subsiding Shells in Shallow Cumulus Using Doppler Lidar and Large‐Eddy Simulation
Authors: McMichael Lucas A. , Yang Fan , Marke Tobias , Löhnert Ulrich , Mechem David B. , Vogelmann Andrew M. , Sanchez Kevin , Tuononen Minttu , Schween Jan H.
Published: August 2020

The existence of subsiding shells on the periphery of shallow cumulus clouds has major implications concerning the parameterization of shallow convection, with the mass exchange between the shell and cloudy air representing a significant deviation from the commonly used bulk‐plume parameterization. We examine the structure and frequency of subsiding shells in shallow cumulus convection using Doppler lidars at the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Southern Great Plains facility in the central United States and at the Jülich ObservatorY for Cloud Evolution in western Germany. Doppler lidar indicates that the vertical subsiding shell extent is asymmetric, while shell width is typically ~100 m. Large‐eddy simulation can reasonably simulate the observed shell structure using a grid spacing of 10 m and suggests that much of the observed asymmetry is not a result of transient cloud evolution.
Multifault Models of the 2019 Ridgecrest Sequence Highlight Complementary Slip and Fault Junction Instability
Authors: Jia Zhe , Wang Xin , Zhan Zhongwen
Published: August 2020

The 2019 Ridgecrest Mw 6.4 and Mw 7.1 earthquakes ruptured a complex fault system, posing challenges in understanding their physical processes. Modeling of the ruptures relies on fault geometries at depth, which are usually assumed based on surface traces and aftershocks. Here we use seismic and geodetic data to jointly constrain the fault geometries and slip distributions. We first represent the first‐order rupture processes with a series of subevents, then conduct slip inversions with subevent‐guided fault geometries. We find that the foreshock sequentially ruptured the NW and SW striking faults starting from their junction. The mainshock initiated at a complex three‐fault junction along the extension of the foreshock NW rupture, with major slip first occurring bilaterally near the hypocenter and then minor unilateral slip later to the southeast end. The slip distributions of the foreshock and mainshock are complementary to each other on the overlapping fault section.
Nascent Flux Rope Observations at Earth's Dayside Magnetopause
Authors: Eriksson S. , Souza V. M. , Cassak P. A. , Hoilijoki S.
Published: August 2020

Two THEMIS satellites, separated by only 0.38 Earth radii (RE), traversed two consecutive dayside magnetopause (MP) current sheets at 3.5 < ZGSM < 3.8 RE on 15 November 2010. An early‐stage crater‐like flux transfer event (FTE) with weakly enhanced total pressure is sampled at the first, complete outbound MP crossing. A mature FTE flux rope is observed just 70 s later across the second, inbound crossing of the MP current sheet. Two counterstreaming magnetosheath ion beams at the interface of two converging reconnection exhausts earthward of the MP current sheet provide direct evidence of two X‐lines across the early‐stage crater FTE. A D‐shaped ion beam observed along the southward magnetic field in the magnetosheath boundary layer and northward exhausts observed earthward of the MP provide evidence of two X‐lines across the mature FTE flux rope. Tripolar out‐of‐plane magnetic field perturbations (ΔBM) of substantial magnitudes were sampled across the MP current sheet in both stages of the FTE flux rope evolution. These dayside observations suggest an association between a tripolar ΔBM perturbation with two magnetic reconnection X‐lines and FTE flux rope formation. A dedicated particle‐in‐cell numerical simulation of magnetic reconnection reproduces similar ion velocity distributions and out‐of‐plane magnetic field perturbations at an asymmetric current sheet as those observed across a nascent flux rope between two X‐lines at the dayside asymmetric MP.
Compositional Layering in Io Driven by Magmatic Segregation and Volcanism
Authors: Spencer Dan C. , Katz Richard F. , Hewitt Ian J. , May David A. , Keszthelyi Laszlo P.
Published: August 2020

The compositional evolution of volcanic bodies like Io is not well understood. Magmatic segregation and volcanic eruptions transport tidal heat from Io's interior to its surface. Several observed eruptions appear to be extremely high temperature (≥1600 K), suggesting either very high degrees of melting, refractory source regions, or intensive viscous heating on ascent. To address this ambiguity, we develop a model that couples crust and mantle dynamics to a simple compositional system. We analyze the model to investigate chemical structure and evolution. We demonstrate that magmatic segregation and volcanic eruptions lead to stratification of the mantle, the extent of which depends on how easily high temperature melts from the more refractory lower mantle can migrate upwards. We propose that Io's highest temperature eruptions originate from this lower mantle region and that such eruptions act to limit the degree of compositional stratification.
Hsa_circRNA_102002 facilitates metastasis of papillary thyroid cancer through regulating miR-488-3p/HAS2 axis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Liu Ting , Li Tianshu , Zhao Xudong
Published: August 2020

As important modulators in various physiological processes, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been increasingly demonstrated in tumors, including papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Hsa_circRNA_102002 (circ_102002) is a circRNA derived from alternative splicing of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 22 (USP22) transcript, the role of which needs further investigation. Our results suggested the upregulation of circ_102002 in PTC tissues and cells, and its promoting effects on epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cell migration. Mechanism studies showed that circ_102002 could sponge microRNA-488-3p (miR-488-3p) and downregulate its expression. The target relationship between miR-488-3p and hyaluronic acid synthetase 2 (HAS2) in PTC was systematically studied. In addition, our results showed that HAS2 overexpression could restore the inhibited cell EMT and migration. Moreover, the inhibitory effect of downregulation of circ_102002 on PTC growth was evaluated in a mouse xenograft model, which involved miR-488-3p and HAS2 regulation. These findings about the signal axis of circ_102002/miR-488-3p/HAS2 may further elucidate the PTC pathogenesis and improve clinical treatment.
Site-dependent reactivity of MoS2 nanoparticles in hydrodesulfurization of thiophene
Authors: Salazar Norberto , Rangarajan Srinivas , Rodríguez-Fernández Jonathan , Mavrikakis Manos , Lauritsen Jeppe V.
Published: August 2020

The catalytically active site for the removal of S from organosulfur compounds in catalytic hydrodesulfurization has been attributed to a generic site at an S-vacancy on the edge of MoS2particles. However, steric constraints in adsorption and variations in S-coordination means that not all S-vacancy sites should be considered equally active. Here, we use a combination of atom-resolved scanning probe microscopy and density functional theory to reveal how the generation of S-vacancies within MoS2nanoparticles and the subsequent adsorption of thiophene (C4H4S) depends strongly on the location on the edge of MoS2. Thiophene adsorbs directly at open corner vacancy sites, however, we find that its adsorption at S-vacancy sites away from the MoS2particle corners leads to an activated and concerted displacement of neighboring edge S. This mechanism allows the reactant to self-generate a double CUS site that reduces steric effects in more constrained sites along the edge.
Societal benefits of halving agricultural ammonia emissions in China far exceed the abatement costs
Authors: Zhang Xiuming , Gu Baojing , van Grinsven Hans , Lam Shu Kee , Liang Xia , Bai Mei , Chen Deli
Published: August 2020

Mitigating agricultural ammonia (NH3) emissions in China is urgently needed to avoid further damage to human and ecosystem health. Effective and feasible mitigation strategies hinge on integrated knowledge of the mitigation potential of NH3emissions and the associated economic costs and societal benefits. Here we present a comprehensive analysis of marginal abatement costs and societal benefits for NH3mitigation in China. The technical mitigation potential of agricultural NH3emissions is 38–67% (4.0–7.1 Tg N) with implementation costs estimated at US$ 6–11 billion. These costs are much lower than estimates of the overall societal benefits at US$ 18–42 billion. Avoiding unnecessary fertilizer use and protein-rich animal feed could provide 30% of this mitigation potential without additional abatement costs or decreases in agricultural productivity. Optimizing human diets with less animal-derived products offers further potential for NH3reduction of 12% by 2050.