bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body fat distribution on computed tomography imaging and prostate cancer risk and mortality in the AGES‐Reykjavik study
Authors: Dickerman Barbra A. , Torfadottir Johanna E. , Valdimarsdottir Unnur A. , Giovannucci Edward , Wilson Kathryn M. , Aspelund Thor , Tryggvadottir Laufey , Sigurdardottir Lara G. , Harris Tamara B. , Launer Lenore J. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Markt Sarah C. , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: June 2019

Background

The World Cancer Research Fund classifies as “strong evidence” the link between obesity and the risk of advanced prostate cancer. In light of the different hormonal profiles associated with where adipose is stored, this study investigated the role of objectively measured body fat distribution and the risk of clinically relevant prostate cancer.

Methods

This was a prospective study of 1832 men in the Age, Gene/Environment Susceptibility–Reykjavik study. From 2002 to 2006, participants underwent baseline computed tomography imaging of fat deposition, bioelectric impedance analysis, and measurement of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. Men were followed through linkage with nationwide cancer registries for the incidence of total (n = 172), high‐grade (Gleason grade ≥8; n = 43), advanced (≥cT3b/N1/M1 at diagnosis or fatal prostate cancer over follow‐up; n = 41), and fatal prostate cancer (n = 31) through 2015. Cox regression was used to evaluate the association between adiposity measures and prostate cancer outcomes.

Results

Among all men, visceral fat (hazard ratio [HR], 1.31 per 1–standard deviation [SD] increase; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00‐1.72) and thigh subcutaneous fat (HR, 1.37 per 1‐SD increase; 95% CI, 1.00‐1.88) were associated with risk of advanced and fatal disease, respectively. Among men who were leaner based on BMI, visceral fat was associated with both advanced and fatal disease. BMI and waist circumference were associated with a higher risk of advanced and fatal disease. No adiposity measures were associated with total or high‐grade disease.

Conclusions

Specific fat depots as well as BMI and waist circumference were associated with the risk of aggressive prostate cancer, which may help to elucidate underlying mechanisms and target intervention strategies.
HHFDS: Heterogeneous hybridized fuzzy‐based Dijkstra's multitask scheduling in WSN
Authors: Prakash B. Guru , Chelliah C. Balasubramanian , Ramanujam R. Sukumar
Published: June 2019

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) has to diffuse the independent wireless sensor nodes, which can track the physical or environmental status. In previous works, many issues prevailed with multitask scheduling such as interference, high energy consumption, throughput, etc. Moreover, some issues arise while working with heterogeneous WSN. This work deals with these issues in heterogeneous WSN with aid of the multitask scheduling. For this purpose, a Heterogeneous Hybridized Fuzzy‐based (depends on degree of truth) Dijkstra's organizing algorithm (HHFDS) was proposed. This technique integrates light weight characteristics as well as a queuing‐based analysis methods, hence identifying the greatest parallel arrangements for which the provided data packet effectively. In this technique, fuzzy Dijkstra's algorithm is hybridized with deep neural network. This also depicts in what way to utilize the identifications outcome with varying data packets and thereby helps with various heterogeneous organizing objectives. The proposed HHFDS algorithm is implemented via the use of the network simulator (NS2). The results of the proposed and existing methods are measured in terms of the metrics like Energy Consumption, Time Consumption, Transmission Delay, and Average Throughput. The simulation results are depicted as follows and the comparison result shown as follows demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
The effects of electrostatic correlations on the ionic current rectification in conical nanopores
Authors: Alidoosti Elaheh , Zhao Hui
Published: June 2019

Ion‐ion electrostatic correlations are recognized to play a significant role in the presence of concentrated multivalent electrolytes. To account for their impact on ionic current rectification phenomenon in conical nanopores, we use the modified continuum Poisson‐Nernst‐Planck (PNP) equations by Bazant et al. Coupled with the Stokes equations, the effects of the EOF are also included. We thoroughly investigate the dependence of the ionic current rectification ratios as a function of the double layer thickness and the electrostatic correlation length. By considering the electrostatic correlations, the modified PNP model successfully captures the ionic current rectification reversal in nanopores filled with lanthanum chloride LaCl3. This finding qualitatively agrees with the experimental observations that cannot be explained by the standard PNP model, suggesting that ion‐ion electrostatic correlations are responsible for this reversal behavior. The modified PNP model not only can be used to explain the experiments, but also go beyond to provide a design tool for nanopore applications involving multivalent electrolytes.
Commentary regarding “Decision support algorithm for the selection of analytical methods in organic compounds detection for future extraterrestrial exploratory missions”
Authors: Járvás Gábor , Guttman András
Published: June 2019

Mátyás et al. recently published their paper entitled as “Decision support algorithm for the selection of analytical methods in organic compounds detection for future extraterrestrial exploratory missions,” which we found interesting. However, there are some points of the developed method that need to be refined to get a practical tool for practitioners. In this commentary, we have summarized our suggestions and comments mainly from the chemical/separation point of view.
Basement evolution of the Sulu orogenic belt: Constraints on zircon U–Pb ages and trace elements from the Weihai gneisses
Authors: Lei Hengcong , Xu Haijin , Xiang Hua
Published: June 2019

Early Paleoproterozoic rocks occur sporadically in the Sulu ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) belt. The tectonic affinity and evolution of these rocks are still disputed. Two magmatic events (Early Paleoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic) and two metamorphic events (Late Paleoproterozoic and Triassic) were revealed by the zircon U–Pb ages and trace elements from the Weihai gneisses, which provide a key clue to understand the evolution of the Sulu orogen. The Early Paleoproterozoic zircons occur as residual zircons or zircon‐inherited cores in the two gneisses. They generally show oscillation zoning and enriched HREE patterns. The weighted mean age of the upper intercept age of these zircons is ~2.46 Ga, suggesting that the protolith of the ancient gneisses formed at ~2.46 Ga. The Late Paleoproterozoic zircons occur as metamorphic zircon core or mantle domains in the two gneisses and a quartzite. They generally show planar zoning or no zoning, with relative lower Th/U ratios. These zircons yield metamorphic ages of 1.8–1.84 Ga, which are consistent with the age of the Paleoproterozoic ultrahigh‐temperature metamorphism of the northern Sulu orogenic belt. The Neoproterozoic zircons occur as magmatic cores or mantles in the zircon grains of the two gneisses and their wall rocks. They show typical oscillatory zoning and enriched HREE patterns, yielding magmatic ages of ca. 740–787 Ma. The Neoproterozoic igneous rocks are the dominant basement rocks in the Sulu orogenic belt. Triassic UHP metamorphism has been well studied in the Sulu orogenic belt. Two Triassic age groups were also recognized here: 228–229 and 208 Ma, respectively. The Triassic zircons occur as metamorphic rims of the two ancient gneisses and their wall rocks. These two age ranges correspond to the time of subduction and exhumation of the the South China Craton (SCC) during the Triassic orogeny. This study provides solid evidence that the Weihai ancient gneisses have a strong affinity with the Yangtze Block. The protoliths of them are Paleoproterozoic (ca. 2.46 Ga) magmatic rocks. They were subsequently suffered from ca. 1.8‐ to 1.84‐Ga metamorphism, new crustal materials overgrowth during ca. 740‐ to 787‐Ma magmatism, and then experienced Triassic continental deep subduction and exhumation process to build the Sulu orogenic belt.
Multimodal imaging reveals a complex pattern of dysfunction in corticolimbic pathways in major depressive disorder
Authors: Nugent Allison C. , Farmer Cristan , Evans Jennifer W. , Snider Sam L. , Banerjee Dipavo , Zarate Carlos A.
Published: June 2019

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is highly prevalent and associated with considerable morbidity, yet its pathophysiology remains only partially understood. While numerous studies have investigated the neurobiological correlates of MDD, most have used only a single neuroimaging modality. In particular, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies have failed to yield uniform results. In this context, examining key tracts and using information from multiple neuroimaging modalities may better characterize potential abnormalities in the MDD brain. This study analyzed data from 30 participants with MDD and 26 healthy participants who underwent DTI, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and magnetoencephalography (MEG). Tracts connecting the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC) and the left and right amygdala, as well as connections to the left and right hippocampus and thalamus, were examined as target areas. Reduced fractional anisotropy (FA) was observed in the studied tracts. Significant differences in the correlation between medial prefrontal glutamate concentrations and FA were also observed between MDD and healthy participants along tracts connecting the sgACC and right amygdala; healthy participants exhibited a strong correlation but MDD participants showed no such relationship. In the same tract, a correlation was observed between FA and subsequent antidepressant response to ketamine infusion in MDD participants. Exploratory models also suggested group differences in the relationship between DTI, fMRI, and MEG measures. This study is the first to combine MRS, DTI, fMRI, and MEG data to obtain multimodal indices of MDD and antidepressant response and may lay the foundation for similar future analyses.
Active head motion reduction in magnetic resonance imaging using tactile feedback
Authors: Krause Florian , Benjamins Caroline , Eck Judith , Lührs Michael , van Hoof Rick , Goebel Rainer
Published: June 2019

Head motion is a common problem in clinical as well as empirical (functional) magnetic resonance imaging applications, as it can lead to severe artefacts that reduce image quality. The scanned individuals themselves, however, are often not aware of their head motion. The current study explored whether providing subjects with this information using tactile feedback would reduce their head motion and consequently improve image quality. In a single session that included six runs, 24 participants performed three different cognitive tasks: (a) passive viewing, (b) mental imagery, and (c) speeded responses. These tasks occurred in two different conditions: (a) with a strip of medical tape applied from one side of the magnetic resonance head coil, via the participant's forehead, to the other side, and (b) without the medical tape being applied. Results revealed that application of medical tape to the forehead of subjects to provide tactile feedback significantly reduced both translational as well as rotational head motion. While this effect did not differ between the three cognitive tasks, there was a negative quadratic relationship between head motion with and without feedback. That is, the more head motion a subject produced without feedback, the stronger the motion reduction given the feedback. In conclusion, the here tested method provides a simple and cost‐efficient way to reduce subjects' head motion, and might be especially beneficial when extensive head motion is expected a priori.
Expression of estrogen receptor alpha is associated with pathogenesis and prognosis of human papillomavirus‐positive oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Kano Makoto , Kondo Satoru , Wakisaka Naohiro , Wakae Kosho , Aga Mituharu , Moriyama‐Kita Makiko , Ishikawa Kazuya , Ueno Takayoshi , Nakanishi Yosuke , Hatano Miyako , Endo Kazuhira , Sugimoto Hisashi , Kitamura Kouichi , Muramatsu Masamichi , Yoshizaki Tomokazu
Published: June 2019

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been identified as a causative agent of cervical cancer and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC). Intriguingly, estrogen and HPV were shown to play synergistic roles in cervical carcinogenesis. We recently demonstrated that the apolipoprotein B mRNA‐editing catalytic polypeptide 3 (APOBEC3, A3) family, which is inducible by estrogen, could lead to HPV DNA hypermutation and cause viral DNA integration. In the present study, we examined the relationships between estrogen–estrogen receptor α (ERα) and A3s in HPV‐positive OPC. ERα expression was associated with HPV positivity in OPC biopsy samples using immunohistochemical analysis and reverse‐transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. In addition, ERα was significantly associated with improved overall survival in HPV‐positive OPC (hazard ratio, 0.26; p = 0.029). APOBEC3A (A3A) mRNA was induced by estrogen in HPV and ERα‐positive OPC cells. Furthermore, A3A mRNA and protein expression were significantly higher in ERα‐positive cases than in ERα‐negative ones, among HPV‐positive biopsy samples (p = 0.037 and 0.047). These findings suggest that A3A is associated with a good prognosis in ERα‐positive OPC, and indicate the prognostic significance of ERα in HPV‐positive OPC. This is the first study to demonstrate the prognostic role of ERα in HPV‐positive OPC.
Mechanical loading stimulates hypertrophy in tissue‐engineered skeletal muscle: Molecular and phenotypic responses
Authors: Aguilar‐Agon Kathryn W. , Capel Andrew J. , Martin Neil R.W. , Player Darren J. , Lewis Mark P.
Published: June 2019

Mechanical loading of skeletal muscle results in molecular and phenotypic adaptations typified by enhanced muscle size. Studies on humans are limited by the need for repeated sampling, and studies on animals have methodological and ethical limitations. In this investigation, three‐dimensional skeletal muscle was tissue‐engineered utilizing the murine cell line C2C12, which bears resemblance to native tissue and benefits from the advantages of conventional in vitro experiments. The work aimed to determine if mechanical loading induced an anabolic hypertrophic response, akin to that described in vivo after mechanical loading in the form of resistance exercise. Specifically, we temporally investigated candidate gene expression and Akt‐mechanistic target of rapamycin 1 signalling along with myotube growth and tissue function. Mechanical loading (construct length increase of 15%) significantly increased insulin‐like growth factor‐1 and MMP‐2 messenger RNA expression 21 hr after overload, and the levels of the atrophic gene MAFbx were significantly downregulated 45 hr after mechanical overload. In addition, p70S6 kinase and 4EBP‐1 phosphorylation were upregulated immediately after mechanical overload. Maximal contractile force was augmented 45 hr after load with a 265% increase in force, alongside significant hypertrophy of the myotubes within the engineered muscle. Overall, mechanical loading of tissue‐engineered skeletal muscle induced hypertrophy and improved force production.
Exosomes from human‐bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells protect against renal ischemia/reperfusion injury via transferring miR‐199a‐3p
Authors: Zhu Gongmin , Pei Lijiao , Lin Fan , Yin Hubin , Li Xinyuan , He Weiyang , Liu Nian , Gou Xin
Published: June 2019

Renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is the main reason for acute kidney injury (AKI) and is closely related to high morbidity and mortality. In this study, we found that exosomes from human‐bone‐marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSC‐Exos) play a protective role in hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury. hBMSC‐Exos were enriched in miR‐199a‐3p, and hBMSC‐Exo treatment increased the expression level of miR‐199a‐3p in renal cells. We further explored the function of miR‐199a‐3p on H/R injury. miR‐199a‐3p was knocked down in hBMSCs with a miR‐199a‐3p inhibitor. HK‐2 cells cocultured with miR‐199a‐3p‐knockdown hBMSCs were more susceptible to H/R injury and showed more apoptosis than those cocultured with hBMSCs or miR‐199a‐3p‐overexpressing hBMSCs. Meanwhile, we found that HK‐2 cells exposed to H/R treatment incubated with hBMSC‐Exos decreased semaphorin 3A (Sema3A) and activated the protein kinase B (AKT) and extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) pathways. However, HK‐2 cells cocultured with miR‐199a‐3p‐knockdown hBMSCs restored Sema3A expression and blocked the activation of the AKT and ERK pathways. Moreover, knocking down Sema3A could reactivate the AKT and ERK pathways suppressed by a miR‐199a‐3p inhibitor. In vivo, we injected hBMSC‐Exos into mice suffering from I/R injury; this treatment induced functional recovery and histologic protection and reduced cleaved caspase‐3 and Sema3A expression levels, as shown by immunohistochemistry. On the whole, this study demonstrated an antiapoptotic effect of hBMSC‐Exos, which protected against I/R injury, via delivering miR‐199a‐3p to renal cells, downregulating Sema3A expression and thereby activating the AKT and ERK pathways. These findings reveal a novel mechanism of AKI treated with hBMSC‐Exos and provide a therapeutic method for kidney diseases.
Screening of ion exchange resin catalysts for epoxidation of oleic acid under the influence of conventional and microwave heating
Authors: Aguilera Adriana Freites , Tolvanen Pasi , Oger Adrien , Eränen Kari , Leveneur Sébastien , Mikkola Jyri‐Pekka , Salmi Tapio
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

For many chemical systems, it is of great importance to find a durable, active and efficient catalyst that improves the process performance. Epoxidation of oleic acid with peracetic acid (Prilezhaev oxidation) was carried out in an isothermal loop reactor in the presence of heterogeneous catalysts. The kinetic experiments conducted under microwave heating (MW) were compared with identical experiments carried out under conventional (conductive/convective) heating. Extensive screening of heterogeneous catalysts was conducted and the influence of microwave irradiation on the reaction kinetics was studied. Several ion exchange resins were screened to explore their applicability and activity in the epoxidation of oleic acid. The perhydrolysis reaction (peracetic acid formed in situ from acetic acid and H2O2) was promoted with the use of various solid acid catalysts: Amberlite IR‐120, Amberlyst 15, Smopex®, Dowex 50x8‐100, Dowex 50x8‐50, Dowex 50x2‐100 and Nafion™.

RESULTS

From the selected group of catalysts, Dowex 50‐x8100 and Dowex 50x8‐50 produced the highest yield of epoxidized oil. Only minor differences in the reactant conversion and the product yield were found in the experiments carried out under microwave exposure compared to the conventionally heated experiments in the presence of several ion exchange resins.

CONCLUSIONS

The catalytic effect was much more prominent than the microwave effect, because the solid acid catalysts enhanced the slow step of the process, the perhydrolysis of acetic acid. The catalytic effect was very dominant and a considerable improvement of the oleic acid conversion and the epoxide yield was observed in the presence of the top‐performing catalysts. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
An unusual case of hereditary transthyretin‐related amyloidosis and ulcerative colitis in a young Indian girl
Authors: Sharma Vishal , Sharma Pankaj , Singh Minu , Agarwala Roshan , Prasad Kaushal K , Mandavdhare Harshal S , Dutta Usha , Bhatia Prateek
Published: June 2019

Hereditary transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis is a multisystem disorder caused by extracellular amyloid deposition, usually presenting with neurological and cardiovascular involvement. Gastrointestinal involvement, if present, is usually in the form of motility symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, or diarrhea alternating with constipation. Presentations mimicking ulcerative colitis without other system involvement are rare. Here we present a case of a young female from northern India, who presented with blood‐admixed diarrhea without any feature of any other system involvement. She was diagnosed and treated as ulcerative colitis for two years with ambivalent response, although the compliance to therapy was also poor. She was re‐evaluated when she presented with recurrence of symptoms and new onset dysphagia. On evaluation, she was diagnosed as hereditary transthyrtetin related amyloidosis.
Low detectable postpartum viral load is associated with HIV transmission in Malawi's prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission programme
Authors: Landes Megan , van Lettow Monique , Nkhoma Ernest , Tippett Barr Beth , Truwah Zinenani , Shouten Erik , Jahn Andreas , Auld Andrew , Kalua Thokozani , van Oosterhout Joep J
Published: June 2019

Introduction

In 2011, Malawi implemented “Option B+,” a test‐and‐treat strategy for the prevention of maternal to child transmission of HIV (PMTCT); however limited data on viral load (VL) suppression exist. We describe VL suppression in HIV‐infected women at four to twenty‐six weeks postpartum, factors associated with VL suppression and the impact of VL suppression levels on MTCT.

Methods

HIV‐positive mothers at four to twenty‐six weeks postpartum were enrolled in a nested cross‐sectional study within the “National Evaluation of Malawi's PMTCT Programme” cohort study between October 2014 and May 2016. HIV‐exposed infants received HIV‐1 DNA testing and venous samples determined maternal VL, classified as unsuppressed (>1000 copies/mL), low‐detectable (40 to 1000 copies/mL) or undetectable (<40 copies/mL). Socio‐demographic and PMTCT indicators were collected. Suboptimal adherence was defined as self‐reported ≥2 days missed ART in the month prior to visit.

Results

Of the 1274 women, 1191 (93.5%) knew their HIV status and 1154/1191 (96.9%) were on ART. VL was available for 1124/1154 (97.4%) of women on ART: 988/1124 (87.9%) had VL suppression of whom 86 (8.7%) had low‐detectable and 902 (91.3%) undetectable VL. Suboptimal adherence was associated with unsuppressed VL (vs. suppressed VL; aOR 3.1, 95% CI 2.0 to 4.9; p < 0.001). Women with low‐detectable VL were more likely to be adolescent (vs. undetectable VL; aOR 3.0, 95% CI 1.4 to 6.6), on ART <6 months (aOR 4.4, 95% CI 2.3 to 8.6), report suboptimal adherence (aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.1 to 3.8; p = 0.02), and less likely to have primary or secondary education (vs. none; aOR 0.3, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.7 or aOR 0.3, 95% 0.1 to 0.6). MTCT ratios among women on ART who had undetectable VL, low‐detectable VL and unsuppressed VL were 0.9% (8/902; 95% CI 0.3 to 1.5), 7.0% (6/86; 95% CI 1.5 to 12.5) and 14.0% (19/136; 95% CI 8.1 to 20.0). Unsuppressed VL and low‐detectable VL (vs. undetectable VL) increased the risk of MTCT 17‐fold (aOR 17.4, 95% CI 7.4 to 41.1; p = 0.002) and ninefold (aOR 8.5, 95% CI 2.9 to 25.2; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Unsuppressed and low‐detectable VL was strongly predictive of MTCT among women on ART and associated with suboptimal adherence. This urges further consideration of optimal VL monitoring and target levels to reach elimination of paediatric infection.
Tractography reproducibility challenge with empirical data (TraCED): The 2017 ISMRM diffusion study group challenge
Authors: Nath Vishwesh , Schilling Kurt G. , Parvathaneni Prasanna , Huo Yuankai , Blaber Justin A. , Hainline Allison E. , Barakovic Muhamed , Romascano David , Rafael‐Patino Jonathan , Frigo Matteo , Girard Gabriel , Thiran Jean‐Philippe , Daducci Alessandro , Rowe Matt , Rodrigues Paulo , Prčkovska Vesna , Aydogan Dogu B. , Sun Wei , Shi Yonggang , Parker William A. , Ould Ismail Abdol A. , Verma Ragini , Cabeen Ryan P. , Toga Arthur W. , Newton Allen T. , Wasserthal Jakob , Neher Peter , Maier‐Hein Klaus , Savini Giovanni , Palesi Fulvia , Kaden Enrico , Wu Ye , He Jianzhong , Feng Yuanjing , Paquette Michael , Rheault Francois , Sidhu Jasmeen , Lebel Catherine , Leemans Alexander , Descoteaux Maxime , Dyrby Tim B. , Kang Hakmook , Landman Bennett A.
Published: June 2019

Background

Fiber tracking with diffusion‐weighted MRI has become an essential tool for estimating in vivo brain white matter architecture. Fiber tracking results are sensitive to the choice of processing method and tracking criteria.

Purpose

To assess the variability for an algorithm in group studies reproducibility is of critical context. However, reproducibility does not assess the validity of the brain connections. Phantom studies provide concrete quantitative comparisons of methods relative to absolute ground truths, yet do no capture variabilities because of in vivo physiological factors. The ISMRM 2017 TraCED challenge was created to fulfill the gap.

Study Type

A systematic review of algorithms and tract reproducibility studies.

Subjects

Single healthy volunteers.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T, two different scanners by the same manufacturer. The multishell acquisition included b‐values of 1000, 2000, and 3000 s/mm2 with 20, 45, and 64 diffusion gradient directions per shell, respectively.

Assessment

Nine international groups submitted 46 tractography algorithm entries each consisting 16 tracts per scan. The algorithms were assessed using intraclass correlation (ICC) and the Dice similarity measure.

Statistical Tests

Containment analysis was performed to assess if the submitted algorithms had containment within tracts of larger volume submissions. This also serves the purpose to detect if spurious submissions had been made.

Results

The top five submissions had high ICC and Dice >0.88. Reproducibility was high within the top five submissions when assessed across sessions or across scanners: 0.87–0.97. Containment analysis shows that the top five submissions are contained within larger volume submissions. From the total of 16 tracts as an outcome relatively the number of tracts with high, moderate, and low reproducibility were 8, 4, and 4.

Data Conclusion

The different methods clearly result in fundamentally different tract structures at the more conservative specificity choices. Data and challenge infrastructure remain available for continued analysis and provide a platform for comparison.

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy Stage: 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:234–249.
Changing pattern of genotypic circulation of human bocavirus variants associated with acute gastroenteritis in Pune, Western India: A 5‐year retrospective study
Authors: Lasure Neha , Gopalkrishna Varanasi
Published: June 2019

Human bocavirus (HBoV) has been frequently associated with acute gastroenteritis. A 5‐year retrospective study was undertaken to understand the circulation pattern and genotype distribution of HBoV in acute gastroenteritis cases in Pune, Western India. A total of 985 stool samples collected from sporadic acute gastroenteritis cases and asymptomatic controls (2007‐2011) from children (≤5 years) were examined for the presence of HBoV. HBoV1 was detected throughout the study period while HBoV2 during 2007‐2010, HBoV3 in 2007‐2009 and in 2011, and HBoV4 in 2009 and 2011. Interestingly, HBoV2 was observed to be predominant in 2007 while HBoV1 and HBoV2 were detected at an equal frequency in the year 2008. HBoV1 was predominant from 2009 onwards. The present study highlights the changing pattern of genotypic circulation, emergence, and re‐emergence of HBoV variants in acute gastroenteritis cases over a 5‐year study period in Western India. The severity of gastroenteritis is reported to vary with HBoV genotypes. Thus, the present study emphasizes the need for routine HBoV surveillance in acute gastroenteritis cases from other parts of the country. This data will be valuable in the current scenario because implementation of rotavirus vaccination has led to the rising of other enteric viruses associated with the disease.
Screening for enteroviral meningitis in infants and children—Is it useful in clinical practice?
Authors: Turner Paul C. , Brayley Jessica , Downing Hannah C. , Homfray Gareth J. , Doolan Georgia , Paul Siba P.
Published: June 2019

Enteroviral meningitis in infants and children commonly leads to hospital admission. Diagnosing viral meningitis can be difficult clinically. We examined the usefulness of enteroviral polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing using cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples on clinical practice by comparing positive enteroviral CSF PCR cases (n = 39/136) to negative controls using both clinical outcomes and laboratory parameters. A positive result correlated with a reduced admission to high dependency unit, reduced the duration of antibiotics and a shorter length of stay (P < .05). Adjusted CSF white cell count > 5/μL correlated with positive PCR (P < .05) but would have missed 32% of cases of enteroviral meningitis. Following these findings, an algorithm for the management of suspected viral meningitis has been introduced.
Hybrid functions for numerical solution of fractional Fredholm‐Volterra functional integro‐differential equations with proportional delays
Authors: Dehestani Haniye , Ordokhani Yadollah , Razzaghi Mohsen
Published: June 2019

In this work, we propose an efficient and accurate computational approach based on the Genocchi hybrid functions (GHFs) for solving a class of fractional Fredholm‐Volterra functional integro‐differential equations (FVFIDEs) with proportional delays. First, the Genocchi hybrid functions are constructed. Then, the operational matrix of the Caputo fractional derivative with some properties of the GHFs is employed to reduce the fractional FVFIDEs with proportional delays to systems of algebraic equations in terms of the unknown coefficients. Ultimately, the upper bound of error and convergence of approximate solution to exact solution are discussed. Moreover, we consider some examples to demonstrate the validity and applicability of our method.
Improved quasi‐physical zone division model with analytical electrothermal Ids model for AlGaN/GaN heterojunction high electron mobility transistors
Authors: Chen Yongbo , Xu Yuehang , Wang Feng , Wang Changsi , Zhang Yong , Yan Bo , Xu Ruimin
Published: June 2019

An accurate analytical electrothermal drain current (Ids) model for AlGaN/GaN HEMTs is presented in this letter. The model is implemented into our recently proposed quasi‐physical zone division (QPZD) model for demonstration purpose. Compared with the original QPZD model, its electrothermal characteristics are enhanced by involving more fundamental temperature dependent elements. In addition, these elements are derived analytically based on physical mechanisms instead of former pure empirical fitting method. Thus, the extracted parameter values are more close to intrinsic values. An in house 0.15‐μm GaN HEMT is used for validation. Compared with the measured data at a wide ambient temperature range (245‐390 K), this electrothermal model demonstrates good accuracy to predict the DC characteristics and RF performances of GaN HEMTs.
Deviations from aspirational target levels and environmental and safety performance: Implications for operations managers acting irresponsibly
Authors: Wiengarten Frank , Fan Di , Pagell Mark , Lo Chris K.Y.
Published: June 2019

The relationship between sustainable operations and a firm's financial performance has been an ongoing focus of operations management scholars. Previous literature has extensively explored the impact of acting responsibly on financial performance. This article applies the behavioral theory of the firm and prospect theory to assess the much‐neglected reverse relationship, exploring whether a firm's relative aspirational financial performance impacts its likelihood of acting irresponsibly. Furthermore, we explore whether operational slack in the form of capacity, productivity, and inventory attenuates a firm's likelihood of acting irresponsibly when its actual financial performance deviates from its aspirational level. We use a matched pair design with privately held manufacturing firms in the United Kingdom who acted irresponsibly matched with similar firms who did not act irresponsibly. While most firms do not act irresponsibly, we find that the further a firm moves (positively or negatively) from its aspirational level of financial performance, the more likely it is to act irresponsibly. The results also indicate that slack generally does not prevent managers from acting irresponsibly, especially when performing relatively well. This study contributes to the sustainable operations literature and provides important theoretical, managerial, and policy implications.
Protein digestion properties of Xinong Saanen goat colostrum and mature milk usingin vitrodigestion model
Authors: Sun Yuxue , Wang Cuina , Sun Xiaomeng , Guo Mingruo
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Xinong Saanen goat milk is a raw material for goat milk‐based infant formula production. This study aims to analyze digestion properties of Xinong Saanen goat colostrum and mature milk by simulating infant gastrointestinal digestion. Zeta potential, particles size, protein profile and peptides composition of these two kinds of milk during the digestion process were studied.

RESULTS

Zeta‐potential values of the digested colostrum were lower than those of mature milk through the whole digestion. Absolute zeta potential of colostrum duodenal digestion samples showed a decrease from 16.63 ± 2.08 to 11.80 ± 2.03 mV while that of mature milk decreased sharply and then increased (P < 0.05). Colostrum had a larger particle size than mature milk and both milks showed decreased particle size with increasing digestion time but an increase for the last 30 min. Colostrum showed more high molecular weight (MW) proteins which cannot be hydrolyzed completely compared with mature milk. Digested peptides (< 10 kDa) were characterized using liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The casein‐derived peptides identified in digested colostrum and mature milk accounted for 76.67% and 59.53%, respectively. β‐Casein was the most abundant in colostrum while that in mature milk was αs1‐casein. Enterotoxin‐binding glycoprotein PP20K, butyrophilin subfamily 1 member A1 (BTN1A1) and perilipin (PLIN) were only detected in digested mature milk.

CONCLUSION

Differences in digestion properties between goat colostrum and mature milk were mainly shown in duodenal digestion phase. Data may provide useful information about utilization of goat milk for infant formula formulation. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Evaluating detection and occupancy probabilities of eastern spotted skunks
Authors: Eng Robin Y. Y. , Jachowski David S.
Published: June 2019

The eastern spotted skunk (Spilogale putorius) is a poorly understood mesocarnivore species that suffered a range‐wide decline in the mid‐1900s. Little is known about its current distribution or habitat needs, and in the southern Appalachians, where the Carolinas and Georgia converge, eastern spotted skunks were only recently discovered to persist. From January–April in 2016 and 2017, we used camera trap surveys to monitor eastern spotted skunks and used occupancy modeling to evaluate factors we hypothesized would influence the probability of spotted skunk detection and occurrence at the landscape scale. We detected spotted skunks at 55.6% of our sites and on 18.5% of sampling occasions. Our results suggest that detection probability was influenced by predation risk, camera setup, and the type of scent‐based attractant used. Eastern spotted skunk occupancy probability had a negative relationship with elevation, such that the probability of occupancy on average increased 7% for every 100‐m decrease in elevation. These results differ from previous findings from the northern Appalachian region, and suggest spotted skunks in the southern Appalachians may be more widely distributed than previously thought. To inform management, there remains a critical need for finer‐scale investigations into resource selection and demographic trends. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Three‐step macrokinetic model of butane and propane steam conversion to methane‐rich gas
Authors: Uskov S. I. , Shigarov A. B. , Potemkin D. I. , Snytnikov P. V. , Kirillov V. A. , Sobyanin V. A.
Published: June 2019

Low‐temperature steam conversion (LTSC) of a methane‐butane mixture (95% methane and 5% butane) into a methane‐rich gas over an industrial Ni‐based catalyst has been studied with the following reaction conditions: temperature 200–320°C, pressure 1 bar, gas hour space velocity 1200–3600 h–1, and steam to carbon ratio 0.64. A three‐step macrokinetic model has been suggested based on the kinetic parameters found. The model includes the following reactions: (1) irreversible steam reforming; (2) CO2 methanation, which occurs in a quasi‐equilibrium mode at temperatures above 260°C; (3) hydrogenolysis of propane and butane, which is essential at temperatures below 260°C. Steam reforming was shown to limit the overall reaction rate, whereas hydrogenolysis and CO2 methanation determined the product distribution in low‐ and high‐temperature regions, respectively. Temperature dependencies of the product distribution for the LTSC of a model ternary methane‐propane‐butane mixture (85% methane, 10% propane, and 5% butane) have been successfully simulated using the three‐step model suggested.
Effect of pirfenidone injection on ferret vocal fold scars: A preliminary in vivo study
Authors: Yamada Takao , Kumai Yoshihiko , Kodama Haruka , Nishimoto Kohei , Miyamaru Satoru , Onoue Satomi , Orita Yorihisa
Published: June 2019

Objectives

This study examined the antifibrotic effect of pirfenidone (PFD), which has received regulatory approval in the United States and Japan for treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, on the scarred ferret vocal fold (VF) in vivo.

Methods

Eight male ferrets were divided into two groups: saline and PFD. All animals underwent unilateral scarring under anesthesia. The right VF was electrocauterized with ablation of the entire lamina propria. PFD (1.0 mg/mL) or saline injections into right‐side scarred VFs were performed (under an operating microscope) 4 weeks later. After an additional 4 weeks, the larynges were harvested for histological analysis. Prior to harvesting, the ferrets were re‐anesthetized, and the VFs were observed and recorded using a rigid video laryngoscope. We immunohistochemically evaluated the expression of collagen types I and III, alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA), and fibronectin in the entire lamina propria. We compared the affected areas (calculated using ImageJ software) between the treated (right) and untreated (left) sides within the same animals and between groups.

Results

Collagen type I (P = 0.0021) and α‐SMA (P = 0.0021) expression levels were lower in the PFD group, but the collagen type III and fibronectin levels did not differ significantly between the two groups.

Conclusion

PFD injection into the scarred VF is a potentially promising novel antifibrotic treatment.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:726–731, 2020
Office‐based corticosteroid injections as adjuvant therapy for subglottic stenosis
Authors: Pan Debbie R. , Rosow David E.
Published: June 2019

Objective

Subglottic stenosis (SGS) is a serious, potentially life‐threatening disorder that is difficult to treat due to significant recurrence rates. While conventional treatment of SGS relies heavily on serial endoscopic dilation procedures, this study aims to characterize the efficacy of incorporating subglottic corticosteroid injections in increasing surgery‐free intervals (SFIs) for a cohort of patients at a university‐based medical system.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

All SGS patients who underwent endoscopic dilation and at least one adjuvant office‐based serial intralesional steroid injection (SILSI) were reviewed. Patients were excluded if they had synchronous airway lesions or stenosis outside of the subglottis. Charts were reviewed for demographic and treatment‐specific data. The SFI was calculated for patients both prior to the initiation of SILSI and after. Groups were compared via Mann–Whitney U test, with P < .05 as the threshold for significance.

Results

Thirteen patients met criteria, with mean age 50.1 ± 14.1 years and 7:6 female to male ratio. Eight of the thirteen (61.5%) had intubation‐related stenosis, while 4/13 were idiopathic and 1/13 was due to Wegener's granulomatosis. Mean follow‐up was 20.4 months. Patients underwent an average of 4.2 ± 2.2 postoperative injections, beginning 45.9 ± 19.0 days after surgery. The mean SFI prior to initiating SILSI was 288.6 ± 362.0 days; while after receiving SILSI, the mean interval was significantly longer (545.5 ± 152.7 days, P = .0041).

Conclusions

We demonstrate that office‐based corticosteroid injection for SGS was associated with a statistically significant improvement in the SFI and is a promising adjuvant approach. Future prospective studies should evaluate if the efficacy is reproducible on a large scale and if SILSI can and/or should be incorporated into the standard management paradigm for SGS treatment.

Level of Evidence

4
Inhibitory effects of two types of food additives on biofilm formation by foodborne pathogens
Authors: Liu Liyan , Ye Congxiu , Soteyome Thanapop , Zhao Xihong , Xia Jing , Xu Wenyi , Mao Yuzhu , Peng Ruixin , Chen Jinxuan , Xu Zhenbo , Shirtliff Mark E. , Harro Janette M.
Published: June 2019

The inhibition of microbial biofilms is a significant concern in food safety. In the present study, the inhibitory effect of sodium citrate and cinnamic aldehyde on biofilm formation at minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and sub‐MICs was investigated for Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus. The biofilm inhibition rate was measured to evaluate the effect of sodium citrate on S. aureus biofilms at 24, 48, 72, and 96 hr. According to the results, an antibiofilm effect was shown by both food additives, with 10 mg/ml of sodium citrate exhibiting the greatest inhibition of S. aureus biofilms at 24 hr (inhibition rate as high as 77.51%). These findings strongly suggest that sodium citrate exhibits a pronounced inhibitory effect on biofilm formation with great potential in the extension of food preservation and storage.
Sex‐related pattern of intrinsic brain connectivity in drug‐naïve Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: De Micco Rosa , Esposito Fabrizio , di Nardo Federica , Caiazzo Giuseppina , Siciliano Mattia , Russo Antonio , Cirillo Mario , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Tessitore Alessandro
Published: June 2019

Background

Sex difference is related to specific clinical features in PD patients over the disease course.

Objectives

To investigate the potential sex‐difference effect on the spontaneous neuronal activity within the most reported resting‐state networks in early untreated PD patients and its correlation with baseline and longitudinal clinical features.

Methods

Fifty‐six drug‐naïve PD patients (30/26 male/female) and 30 (15/15 male/female) matched controls were enrolled in the study. Topological and spectral resting‐state functional MRI features of the sensorimotor, dorsal and ventral attention, frontoparietal, and default‐mode networks were analyzed for possible sex‐difference effects in both PD patients and controls groups. Additionally, a region‐of‐interest analysis was performed to test for a sex effect on basal ganglia connectivity. Multivariate ordinal regression was used to investigate whether connectivity findings at baseline were predictors of motor impairment over a 2‐year follow‐up period.

Results

Compared to female PD patients and controls, male PD patients showed an abnormal spectral composition of the sensorimotor and dorsal attention networks in the slow‐5 band. The region‐of‐interest analysis showed an increased connectivity within the basal ganglia in female PD patients compared to males. Functional sensorimotor connectivity changes at baseline showed to be an independent predictor of disease severity at 2‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

Our findings revealed the presence of a disease‐related, sex‐specific cortical and subcortical connectivity pattern within the sensorimotor network, in the early stage of PD. We hypothesize that these findings may be related to the presence of different sex‐specific nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathways and might predict PD progression. © 2019 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Community partnership ensures MH patients get needed care
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2019

For a person experiencing a serious mental health or other health care need, and with nowhere else to turn, they may feel caught up in an endless cycle of 911 calls along with hospital and emergency department visits. While some calls may indeed be emergencies, others may be handled more appropriately in a clinic or physician's office.
MHA report addresses psychological needs of the workforce
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2019

Observing a commitment to uncovering workplace disparities and addressing the psychological needs of the workforce, Mental Health America (MHA) last month released its 2019 Mind the Workplace report, which explores the relationships between supervisor communication styles, company culture of open and safe communication, and employee engagement and well‐being.
Association between operation‐ and operator‐related factors and surgical complications among patients undergoing free‐flap reconstruction for head and neck cancers: A propensity score‐matched study of 1,865 free‐flap reconstructions
Authors: Kuo Spencer C. H. , Kuo Pao‐Jen , Yen Yuan‐Hao , Chien Peng‐Chen , Hsieh Hsiao‐Yun , Hsieh Ching‐Hua
Published: June 2019

Objective

Efforts have been devoted to clarify the possible factors related to postoperative complications in free‐flap reconstruction. While patient‐related factors have been widely discussed, studies regarding the operation/operator‐related factors are rather limited in the literature. This study was designed to investigate the relationship between operation/operator‐related factors and the surgical complications in free‐flap reconstruction following head and neck cancer resection.

Methods

Data of 1,841 patients with a total of 1,865 free‐flap reconstructions (24 double free‐flap reconstructions) between March 2008 and February 2017 were retrieved from the registered microsurgery database of the hospital. The association of operation/operator‐related factors (including flap length and length–width ratio, flap types, use of vein graft, opposite side microanastomosis, number of microanastomoses, operators, operator experience, and operation time) with surgical complications was assessed by 1:1 propensity score‐matched study groups.

Results

After propensity score matching of the patient‐related factors, the rate of vein grafting was significantly higher (0.6% vs. 2.2%, p = .038) and the operation time was longer (7.0 [5.8–8.5] vs. 7.4 [6.1–8.8] hr, p = .006) in the complication group. In addition, flap length and length–width ratio, flap types, opposite side microanastomosis, number of microanastomoses, operators, and operator experience were not associated with surgical complications.

Conclusions

In a hospital that consisted of surgeons with high‐volume or very‐high‐volume experience, the operators or operation experience were not significantly associated with the surgical complications. Only a longer operation time was associated with surgical complications in the patients who underwent free‐flap reconstruction for head and neck cancer.