bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence and determinants of anteflexion impairment after rotational acetabular osteotomy
Authors: Hamada Hidetoshi , Takao Masaki , Ando Wataru , Sugano Nobuhiko
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to identify the incidence of anteflexion impairment after rotational acetabular osteotomy based on patient‐reported outcome measures, and the morphological factors and postoperative bony range of motion associated with anteflexion impairment at 2 years postoperatively. We analyzed 26 patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip who underwent rotational acetabular osteotomy at our institution. Using questionnaires, we defined anteflexion impairment as difficulty in clipping toenails and pulling up and removing socks. Morphological parameters and bony range of motion measured using a postoperative three‐dimensional surface model, were compared between the subjects with and without anteflexion impairment. The incidence of anteflexion impairment was 69% at 6 months, 35% at 1 year, and 12% at 2 years after rotational acetabular osteotomy. The mean bony flexion angle was smaller in subjects with impairment than in those without impairment. The mean internal rotation (IR) angle at 90° of flexion was smaller in subjects with impairment than in those without impairment. The incidence of impairment was significantly higher in subjects with both less than or equal to 105° of bony flexion and less than or equal to 20° of IR at 90° of flexion than in the remaining subjects. No significant difference was observed in postoperative femoral head coverage and preoperative morphological parameters including spinal condition between the two groups. To prevent femoroacetabular impingement after rotational acetabular osteotomy, surgeons need to reorient the acetabulum to restore postoperative bony flexion to more than or equal to 105° and/or postoperative IR range of motion to more than or equal to 20° at 90° of flexion.
A 3D printed smartphone adaptor for nasolaryngoscopy
Authors: Thompson Daniel , Albarki Hashm , Lodhia Chetan , Fitzpatrick Nicholas
Published: January 2020

Objective

The objective of this project is to create a three‐dimensional (3D) printed smartphone adaptor for flexible nasolaryngoscopy (FNL) to provide an affordable alternative to commercial options and a better fit than generic telescope phone adaptors.

Method

We designed an adaptor using computer aided software to connect an iPhone XS to an Olympus Rhino‐Laryngo Fibre Scope. We experimented with various 3D printing materials and iterative designs to create a case that allowed for quality recording of a nasolaryngoscope exam using the iPhone's built in ×2 telescopic zoom lens.

Results

Our 3D printed adaptor provides a cost‐effective alternative to commercially available FNL smartphone adaptors and is capable of capturing high‐quality images and videos of the nasopharynx and larynx. These images are useful for senior clinician review, decrease the need for repeat examination, can be utilized for education, avail telehealth review, and provides a way to digitally record examinations to electronic medical records for future comparison without the need for an endoscopy tower.

Conclusion

Smartphone adaptors for FNL have been established to be of clinical value. Despite being simple devices, they continue to be expensive. This potentially limits access to junior clinicians, who stand to gain most from the ability to review images of examinations with senior colleagues. Our 3D printed smartphone case provides a cost‐effective alternative, with a better fit than generic adaptors, at a print cost of $29 AUD. This is $131 AUD less than the next cheapest commercial alternative. The files are freely available for use and modification.

Level of Evidence

4
Photomineralization of organic carbon in a eutrophic, semiarid estuary
Authors: Wang Hongjie , Hu Xinping , Wetz Michael S. , Hayes Kenneth C. , Lu Kaijun
Published: January 2020

The effect of photomineralization on the carbon cycle in a eutrophic, semiarid estuary (Baffin Bay, Texas) was investigated using closed‐system incubations. Photochemical production rate of dissolved inorganic carbon ranged from 0.16 to 0.68 μM hr−1, with a daily removal of 0.3∼1.5% of the standing stock of dissolved organic carbon (DOC). The photomineralization rate was negatively correlated with chlorophyll a concentration, suggesting that plankton‐derived DOC was less photoreactive to solar radiation. The stable carbon isotope composition (δ13C∼ −18.6‰) of degraded DOC, as calculated using the DIC “Keeling” plot, further indicated high photochemical lability of 13C‐enriched DOC in this semiarid environment. Our finding showed that photomineralization of 13C‐enriched DOC is an important component of carbon cycle in this system, and this process does not necessarily remove 13C‐depleted organic carbon as observed in other coastal systems.
Spo0J and SMC are required for normal chromosome segregation in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Chan Helena , Söderström Bill , Skoglund Ulf
Published: January 2020

Bacterial chromosome segregation is an essential cellular process that is particularly elusive in spherical bacteria such as the opportunistic human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus. In this study, we examined the functional significance of a ParB homologue, Spo0J, in staphylococcal chromosome segregation and investigated the role of the structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) bacterial condensin in this process. We show that neither spo0J nor smc is essential in S. aureus; however, their absence causes abnormal chromosome segregation. We demonstrate that formation of complexes containing Spo0J and SMC is required for efficient S. aureus chromosome segregation and that SMC localization is dependent on Spo0J. Furthermore, we found that cell division and cell cycle progression are unaffected by the absence of spo0J or smc. Our results verify the role of Spo0J and SMC in ensuring accurate staphylococcal chromosome segregation and also imply functional redundancy or the involvement of additional mechanisms that might contribute to faithful chromosome inheritance.
Design of an antipodal Vivaldi antenna with fractal‐shaped dielectric slab for enhanced radiation characteristics
Authors: Bhattacharjee Anindita , Bhawal Abhirup , Karmakar Anirban , Saha Anuradha
Published: January 2020

A conventional antipodal Vivaldi antenna (CAVA) with fractal‐based parallel dielectric slabs is proposed for different wideband applications. At first, a CAVA is designed as a reference antenna, and then Koch fractal‐shaped dielectric slabs are placed parallel to CAVA. The presence of fractal‐shaped dielectric slabs increases the operating bandwidth, and also the field coupling between the antenna arms enhances the gain and directivity of the antenna. The optimized structure of the antenna produces |S11| < −10 dB frequency band from 4.2 GHz to 50 GHz. The total dimension of the fabricated prototype of the proposed antenna is 122 × 66 × 7.692 mm3.
Dissecting the Response to Blue Light
Authors: Schreiner Keri
Published: January 2020

As more display users express concern about the impact of blue light on health, manufacturers have offered multiple ways to reduce exposure. However, experts say, achieving a true solution is a bit more complicated.
What's in Store for Portable Displays?
Authors: Dickson Glen
Published: January 2020

You can expect more trial‐and‐error from foldables, that OLED will edge out LTPS in smartphones, and that some refinements from the TV market will make their way into tablets, among other things. We asked analysts for a snapshot of where portable technology stands and their forecasts for the future.
A comparative study on patient safety culture among emergency nurses in the public and private hospitals of Tabriz, Iran
Authors: Chegini Zahra , Janati Ali , Afkhami Maryam , Behjat Maryam , Shariful Islam Sheikh Mohammed
Published: January 2020

Aim

To appraise patient safety culture in emergency departments of Iranian public and private hospitals.

Design

A comparative cross‐sectional survey design was used.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted from January–March 2019. For data collection, the Hospital Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) questionnaire was employed. The study sample comprised 256 participants. Independent t test and analysis of variance were performed to report the mean differences in total patient safety culture perception according to the participants' characteristics and according to hospital ownership.

Results

There was no significant difference in overall perceptions of patient safety culture in public and private sectors (2.94 vs. 2.84, p > .05). There are no solid areas regarding patient safety found neither in public nor in private sectors. Out of 12 dimensions of patient safety culture, different perceptions of nurses working in public and private hospitals belonged to “Organizational learning” (t = 2.13, p = .034) and “Handoffs and transitions” (t = 2.91, p = .004). Regarding the participants' characteristics, no significant difference was observed as to the perspectives of nurses on patient safety culture. However, there was a meaningful difference in the attitudes of nurses working in public hospitals according to their employment status (t = 2.07, p = .039).
Engine idle speed control using nonlinear multiparametric model predictive control
Authors: Shamekhi Amir‐Mohammad , Taghavipour Amir , Shamekhi Amir H.
Published: January 2020

In this article, a real‐time nonlinear model predictive idle speed controller based on multiparametric programming is designed for an SI engine. Idle speed is a crucial recurring condition in urban vehicles demanding proper control to avoid stall. As will be seen, the nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) system designed, besides complying with the predefined constraints, demonstrates a far better performance than the prevalent industrial controllers and even conventional linear MPC controllers. More importantly, a new special structure combining offline nonlinear MPC and classical controller is employed to provide both robustness and fast response. Not only is the computational burden of the controller within that of the ordinary ECU controllers, it is also able to readily damp a disturbance of 20 N·m in less than 2.5 seconds and easily deal with parameter uncertainties. The control system also regulates engine gas pedal release, and converges to the set point with a settling time of less than 3 seconds and minimum fluctuations.
A feasible UHPLC‐MS/MS method for concurrent quantification of 10 bioactive principles in Aquilaria leaf tea by the multiple reaction monitoring analytical mode
Authors: Kuo Ping‐Chung , Li Yue‐Chiun , Yang Mei‐Lin , Tzen Jason T.C.
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Recently, the fresh leaves of Aquilaria trees have been processed as food products such as agarwood tea due to its beneficial medicinal properties. However, there have not been any reported analytical methods to quantify the bioactive principles in the processed products.

Objective

A rapid and sensitive ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with electrospray ionisation (ESI) tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of 10 bioactive components in Aquilaria leaf tea.

Methods

The UHPLC‐MS/MS was used for quantification operated in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The optimised chromatographic parameters were conducted on a Shim‐pack XR‐ODS II column and mobile phases consisted of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid in water.

Results

All the samples were analysed within 20 min. The established method showed excellent linearity (R2 > 0.9988), good repeatability with all the relative standard deviation values lower than 3.27%, and satisfactory recovery (79.72–119.22%). The matrix effect factors ranged from 87.65 to 97.27% in the examination. The developed method was applied to the determination of 10 bioactive principles (1–10) in six different Aquilaria leaf tea samples. Among the analytes, mangiferin (1) and iriflophenone 2‐O‐α‐l‐rhamnopyranoside (2) were the most abundant compounds in the extracts of Aquilaria leaf tea, and it indicated that these biotech products may possess laxative effects.

Conclusion

This proposed method appeared to be a useful tool for the quality control of commercial products of Aquilaria leaf tea and thus provided an analytical reference for herbal drinks.
Physical Activity in Adults With an Amputation as Assessed With a Self‐Reported Exercise Vital Sign
Authors: Sederberg Mark , Tarkhan Aliasghar , Ray Lisa S. , Lee E. Sally , Lin Cindy
Published: January 2020

Background

Physical activity (PA) is important for the prevention and treatment of numerous chronic medical conditions. Individuals with a limb amputation face unique challenges for staying physically active. There are few studies evaluating PA of civilians with amputation in the United States.

Objective

To evaluate self‐reported PA in persons with an amputation in the outpatient setting using a standardized exercise vital sign (EVS) and correlate PA with demographic information, amputation characteristics, and disease burden.

Design

Cross‐sectional observational study.

Setting

Outpatient rehabilitation clinic at a tertiary care institution.

Interventions

N/A.

Participants

Two hundred twenty‐nine patients with limb amputation.

Main Outcome Measurements

EVS (self‐reported weekly participation in moderate to vigorous intensity exercise), disease burden using a modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), possession of a prosthetic limb, amputation level, time from amputation, body mass index (BMI), gender, race, and age.

Results

A total of 28.8% of patients with limb amputation self‐reported exercising at or above 150 min/wk as recommended by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS); 31.8% of patients with transfemoral amputations, 27.8% with transtibial amputations, and 36% with upper extremity amputations reported exercising the recommended amount. Those with a prosthesis exercised 0.91 h/wk more than those without a prosthesis (95% CI 0.01, 1.8, P = .047), and female patients exercised 1.09 h/wk less than male patients (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.69‐0.49, P < .001). Increasing age (P = .045), CCI (P = .006), and BMI (P = .005) all had a small but significant correlation with lower EVS. There was no statistically significant correlation between EVS and amputation level, race, or time from amputation.

Conclusions

Less than one‐third of patients with an amputation meet HHS recommendations for aerobic exercise. Male patients, those with a prosthesis, lower CCI, lower BMI, and younger age reported higher PA rates. Assessing EVS can help clinicians to identify patients with amputation that are not sufficiently active and may benefit from PA counseling and prescription.
Characterization of Aluminum Powders: III. Non‐Isothermal Oxidation and Combustion of Modern Aluminized Solid Propellants with Nanometals and Nanooxides
Authors: Gromov Alexander A. , Sergienko Alexey V. , Popenko Elena M. , Slyusarsky Konstantin V. , Larionov Kirill B. , Dzidziguri Ella L. , Nalivaiko Anton Y.
Published: January 2020

Aluminum powders were comprehensively described as the prospective ingredients of the modern propellants. The paper also studied the influence of micro‐ and nanopowders of metals (μ‐Me and n‐Me) and metal oxides (μ‐MeO and n‐MeO) on the burning process of modern aluminized propellant with HMX, CL‐20, AP, and active binder. The following metal additives were used: Al, B, Zn, Ni, Co, and Mo. The effect of the following oxides CoO, V2O5, MnO2, and Fe2O3 was studied together with LiF. The combustion tests of modified propellant compositions were carried out in the Vielle bomb in a pressure range 2–10 MPa. n‐Me addition resulted in an increase in the burning rate by 10 % for n‐B, by 30–40 % for n‐Ni and n‐Mo in the studied pressure range. The introduction of n‐Cu caused a burning rate to increase fivefold. n‐Zn additive resulted in increasing of the propellant burning rate by 130 % and 260 % at 4 and 10 MPa, respectively. It was probably caused by the catalytic activity of those metals in the gaseous phase. The effect of complex additive was observed to be insignificant for additives with μ‐Co3O4, μ‐V2O5, μ‐Fe2O3 and n‐Fe2O3. The burning rate of propellant with n‐CuO additive value was higher by a factor of 4 in comparison with the basic formulation in the studied pressure range.
T‐495, a novel low cooperative M1 receptor positive allosteric modulator, improves memory deficits associated with cholinergic dysfunction and is characterized by low gastrointestinal side effect risk
Authors: Mandai Takao , Sako Yuu , Kurimoto Emi , Shimizu Yuji , Nakamura Minoru , Fushimi Makoto , Maeda Ryouta , Miyamoto Maki , Kimura Haruhide
Published: January 2020

M1 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M1R) activation can be a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of cognitive deficits associated with cholinergic hypofunction. However, M1R activation causes gastrointestinal (GI) side effects in animals. We previously found that an M1R positive allosteric modulator (PAM) with lower cooperativity (α‐value) has a limited impact on ileum contraction and can produce a wider margin between cognitive improvement and GI side effects. In fact, TAK‐071, a novel M1R PAM with low cooperativity (α‐value of 199), improved scopolamine‐induced cognitive deficits with a wider margin against GI side effects than a high cooperative M1R PAM, T‐662 (α‐value of 1786), in rats. Here, we describe the pharmacological characteristics of a novel low cooperative M1R PAM T‐495 (α‐value of 170), using the clinically tested higher cooperative M1R PAM MK‐7622 (α‐value of 511) as a control. In rats, T‐495 caused diarrhea at a 100‐fold higher dose than that required for the improvement of scopolamine‐induced memory deficits. Contrastingly, MK‐7622 showed memory improvement and induction of diarrhea at an equal dose. Combination of T‐495, but not of MK‐7622, and donepezil at each sub‐effective dose improved scopolamine‐induced memory deficits. Additionally, in mice with reduced acetylcholine levels in the forebrain via overexpression of A53T α‐synuclein (ie, a mouse model of dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease with dementia), T‐495, like donepezil, reversed the memory deficits in the contextual fear conditioning test and Y‐maze task. Thus, low cooperative M1R PAMs are promising agents for the treatment of memory deficits associated with cholinergic dysfunction.
Tumor Time‐Course Predicts Overall Survival in Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients Treated with Atezolizumab: Dependency on Follow‐Up Time
Authors: Netterberg Ida , Bruno René , Chen Ya‐Chi , Winter Helen , Li Chi‐Chung , Jin Jin Y. , Friberg Lena E.
Published: January 2020

The large heterogeneity in response to immune checkpoint inhibitors is driving the exploration of predictive biomarkers to identify patients who will respond to such treatment. We extended our previously suggested modeling framework of atezolizumab pharmacokinetics, IL18, and tumor size (TS) dynamics, to also include overall survival (OS). Baseline and model‐derived variables were explored as predictors of OS in 88 patients with non‐small cell lung cancer treated with atezolizumab. To investigate the impact of follow‐up length on the inclusion of predictors of OS, four different censoring strategies were applied. The time‐course of TS change was the most significant predictor in all scenarios, whereas IL18 was not significant. Identified predictors of OS were similar regardless of censoring strategy, although OS was underpredicted when patients were censored 5 months after last dose. The study demonstrated that the tumor‐time course‐OS relationship could be identified based on early phase I data.
Global output feedback control for nonlinear cascade systems with unknown output functions and unknown control directions
Authors: Wang Ping , Yu Chengpu , Sun Jian
Published: January 2020

This paper investigates the output feedback control for the uncertain nonlinear system with the integral input‐to‐state stable (iISS) cascade subsystem, which allow not only the unknown control direction but also the unknown output function. The unknown output function only needs to have a generalized derivative (which may not be derivable), and the upper and lower bounds of the generalized derivative need not to be known. To deal with the challenge raised by the unknown output function and the unknown control direction, we choose a special Nussbaum function with a faster growth rate to ensure the integrability for the derivative of the selected Lyapunov function. Then, a dynamic output feedback controller is designed to drive the system states to the origin while keeping the boundedness for all other closed‐loop signals. Moreover, via some appropriate transformations, the proposed control scheme is extended to deal with more general uncertain nonlinear cascade systems with quantized input signals. Finally, two simulation examples are given to show the effectiveness of the control scheme.
Regional consensus of linear differential inclusions subject to input saturation
Authors: Song Qilin , Li Yuanlong , Lin Zongli
Published: January 2020

In this article, we consider regional consensus problem for a group of identical linear systems represented by a linear differential inclusion over an undirected communication topology. Each vertex system of the linear differential inclusion is represented by a general linear system subject to input saturation, and hence only regional consensus can be achieved. For given saturated distributed linear control protocols, we establish a set of conditions under which these control protocols achieve regional consensus and a level set of a Laplacian quadratic function can be used as an estimate of the domain of consensus. These conditions are given in the form of matrix inequalities and involve the properties of the communication topology. Based on these matrix inequalities, we formulate a linear matrix inequalities based optimization problem for obtaining as large an estimate of the domain of consensus as possible. By viewing the gain matrix in the consensus algorithms as an additional variable, this optimization problem can be adapted for the design of the consensus protocols. Simulation results illustrate the effectiveness of our proposed approach.
The Right Light: Tiger Salamander Capture Rates and Spectral Sensitivity
Authors: Liebgold Eric B. , Carleton Karen L.
Published: January 2020

Knowledge of population dynamics is critical for species of conservation concern so wildlife researchers need to take advantage of biases in animals' behaviors that could help them monitor populations. This is particularly important for amphibians because many populations are declining and difficult to observe. Attraction of vertebrates to light is a well‐known navigational cue and some fisheries strategies utilize light sources to increase catch success. To optimize population monitoring of state‐endangered eastern tiger salamanders (Ambystoma tigrinum), we tested the utility of colored glow sticks (green, orange, pink, or yellow) as bait in traps in Maryland and Delaware, USA, during 2015–2016. We then measured intensities of the colored glow sticks and estimated photoreceptive quantum catches of each color according to the spectral sensitivities of eastern tiger salamanders. We found that eastern tiger salamanders' photoreceptors had greater quantum catches of photons from green and yellow glow sticks. However, traps baited with orange glow sticks were more than twice as likely to capture eastern tiger salamanders than were traps baited with green or yellow. There were no differences in the number of salamanders caught per successful trap among glow stick colors, perhaps due to attraction of salamanders to motion from previously captured salamanders. Our results indicate that biases other than perceived intensity of light sources may drive behavioral preferences. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Normative Violence in Domestic Service: A Study of Exploitation, Status, and Grievability
Authors: Varman Rohit , Skålén Per , Belk Russell W. , Chaudhuri Himadri Roy
Published: January 2020

This paper contributes to business ethics by focusing on consumption that is characterized by normative violence. By drawing on the work of Judith Butler this study ofkajer lok—a female subaltern group of Indian domestic service providers—and their higher status clients shows how codes of status-based consumption shaped by markets, class, caste, and patriarchy create a social order that reduces kajer lok to “ungreivable” lives. Our study contributes to business ethics by focusing on exploitation and coercion in consumption rather than in production and of woman rather than of men. It adds to consumer research by revealing how social distinctions not only manifest in status contests in which symbolic power is at stake but also may produce violent exploitation and ungrievable lives.
The United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection: Legal Implications and New Frontiers
Authors: Benöhr I.
Published: January 2020

The United Nations set a milestone in the development of consumer law when it adopted the United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection in 1985 (UNGCP), establishing for the first time a set of international consumer law principles. Since then, with the emergence of the digital era, the landscape has experienced dramatic changes, and consumers have been facing an expanding range of global challenges, especially in the financial services sector. To reflect this changing landscape, new provisions were added by revised Guidelines in 1999 and again in 2015, which included recommendations on good business practices, financial protection and e-commerce. However, the Guidelines are only soft law provisions, as they are not legally binding on Member States. The question therefore arises of how effective they can be in promoting consumer law at the national and global levels. This article will argue that a comprehensive international consumer law framework is essential in the current context, and that there has been some advancement towards this since the adoption of the Guidelines. However, while the United Nations is playing a unique role in promoting an inclusive and broad consumer protection approach, it sometimes lacks the legal powers and resources to ensure the full effectiveness of its Guidelines. The article thus examines the evolution of consumer protection at the international level, assessing the legal landscape and key players in the field. It outlines the increasing involvement of the United Nations in the area of consumer protection, analysing the core features of the revised Guidelines and their implications, and concludes by suggesting avenues for future development.
Optimizing Workflows for Fast and Reliable Metabolic Tumor Volume Measurements in Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma
Authors:   On behalf of the PETRA Consortium, Burggraaff Coreline N. , Rahman Fareen , Kaßner Isabelle , Pieplenbosch Simone , Barrington Sally F. , Jauw Yvonne W.S. , Zwezerijnen Gerben J.C. , Müller Stefan , Hoekstra Otto S. , Zijlstra Josée M. , De Vet Henrica C.W. , Boellaard Ronald
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This pilot study aimed to determine interobserver reliability and ease of use of three workflows for measuring metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) in diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Procedures

Twelve baseline [18F]FDG PET/CT scans from DLBCL patients with wide variation in number and size of involved organs and lymph nodes were selected from the international PETRA consortium database. Three observers analyzed scans using three workflows. Workflow A: user-defined selection of individual lesions followed by four automated segmentations (41%SUVmax, A50%SUVpeak, SUV≥2.5, SUV≥4.0). For each lesion, observers indicated their “preferred segmentation.” Individually selected lesions were summed to yield total MTV and TLG. Workflow B: fully automated preselection of [18F]FDG-avid structures (SUV≥4.0 and volume≥3ml), followed by removing non-tumor regions with single mouse clicks. Workflow C: preselected volumes based on Workflow B modified by manually adding lesions or removing physiological uptake, subsequently checked by experienced nuclear medicine physicians. Workflow C was performed 3 months later to avoid recall bias from the initial Workflow B analysis. Interobserver reliability was expressed as intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).

Results

Highest interobserver reliability in Workflow A was found for SUV≥2.5 and SUV≥4.0 methods (ICCs for MTV 0.96 and 0.94, respectively). SUV≥4.0 and A50%Peak were most and SUV≥2.5 was the least preferred segmentation method. Workflow B had an excellent interobserver reliability (ICC = 1.00) for MTV and TLG. Workflow C reduced the ICC for MTV and TLG to 0.92 and 0.97, respectively. Mean workflow analysis time per scan was 29, 7, and 22 min for A, B, and C, respectively.

Conclusions

Improved interobserver reliability and ease of use occurred using fully automated preselection (using SUV≥4.0 and volume≥3ml, Workflow B) compared with individual lesion selection by observers (Workflow A). Subsequent manual modification was necessary for some patients but reduced interobserver reliability which may need to be balanced against potential improvement on prognostic accuracy.
Epidemiology of osteoporotic fracture in Moldova and development of a country-specific FRAX model
Authors: Zakroyeva Alla , Lesnyak Olga , Cazac Victor , Groppa Liliana , Russu Eugen , Chislari Lia , Rotaru Larisa , Johansson Helena , Harvey Nicholas C. , McCloskey Eugene , Lorentzon Mattis , Kanis John A.
Published: January 2020

Retrospective population-based survey in 2 regions of the Republic of Moldova determined the incidence of fractures at the hip, proximal humerus and distal forearm. The estimated number of such fractures nationwide for 2015 was 11,271 and is predicted to increase to 15,863 in 2050. The hip fracture rates were used to create a FRAX model to help guide decisions about treatment.

Objective

This paper describes the epidemiology of osteoporotic fractures in Republic of Moldova that was used to develop the country-specific fracture prediction FRAX® tool.

Methods

We carried out a retrospective population-based survey in 2 regions of the Republic of Moldova (Anenii Noi district and Orhei district) representing approximately 6% of the country’s population. We identified hip, forearm and humerus fractures in 2011 and 2012 from hospital registers and primary care sources. Age- and sex-specific incidence of hip fracture and national mortality rates were incorporated into a FRAX model for Moldova. Fracture probabilities were compared with those from neighbouring countries having FRAX models.

Results

The incidence of hip fracture applied nationally suggested that the estimated number of hip fractures nationwide in persons over the age of 50 years for 2015 was 3911 and is predicted to increase by 60% to 6492 in 2050. Hip fracture incidence was a good predictor of forearm and humeral fractures. FRAX-based probabilities were higher in Moldova than neighbouring countries (Ukraine and Romania).

Conclusion

The FRAX model should enhance accuracy of determining fracture probability among the Moldavan population and help guide decisions about treatment.
A Brief Educational Intervention Enhances Basic Cancer Literacy Among Kentucky Middle and High School Students
Authors: Hudson Lauren , Samons Kerrigan M. , Dicken Haley E. , Prichard Chris , Weiss L. Todd , Edward Jean , Vanderpool Robin C. , Vanderford Nathan L.
Published: January 2020

Kentucky experiences the highest overall cancer incidence and mortality rates in the USA with the greatest burden in the eastern, Appalachian region of the state. Cancer disparities in Kentucky are driven in part by poor health behaviors, poverty, lack of health care access, low education levels, and low health literacy. Individuals with inadequate health literacy are less likely to participate in preventive measures such as obtaining screenings and making healthy lifestyle choices, thus increasing their chances of developing and dying from cancer. By increasing cancer literacy among youth and adults, it may be possible to decrease cancer disparities across Kentucky. This study aimed to establish connections with middle and high schools in Kentucky that would facilitate pilot implementation of a brief cancer education intervention and assessment of cancer health literacy among these student populations. A baseline pretest cancer literacy survey consisting of 10 items was given to 349 participants, followed by the delivery of a cancer education presentation. Immediately following the presentation, participants were given a posttest with identical items to the pretest. Participants were primarily Caucasian (89.4%), female (68.7%), and in 10th through 12th grade (80.5%). Significant (p < 0.0001) increases in both average and median percent of correctly marked items were observed between the pretest and posttest (average, pretest = 56% versus posttest = 85%; median, pretest = 60% versus posttest = 90%). The scores for all individual items increased after the brief intervention. The results demonstrated a significant increase in cancer literacy levels immediately after the pilot educational intervention. We suggest that it may be possible to improve cancer literacy rates in Kentucky by integrating cancer education into middle and high school science and/or health education curricula. This could ultimately drive changes in behaviors that may help lower cancer incidence and mortality rates. Plans for future interventional studies measuring long-term cancer knowledge retention and resultant behavioral changes among middle and high school students as well as the feasibility of integrating cancer education into middle and high school curricula are also discussed.
Defluoridation of drinking water using coalesced and un-coalesced mica
Authors: Hussein Idd Ally , Vegi Maheswara Rao
Published: January 2020

This is a sorption study that focused on the use of mica clay mineral grouped into mica untreated, activated mica at 800 °C, mica impregnated separately with iron and aluminium for defluoridation of water. In this study, characterization of adsorbent was done by using XRF and XRD and quantification of fluoride by using fluoride ion selective electrode. Characterization of adsorbent showed the presence of SiO2, CaO, P2O5, Fe2O3 and Al2O3 in the adsorbent. XRD exhibited higher composition of illite, calcite, quartz and albite. Batch experiments were conducted by using a homogeneous mixture of water having 16 mg/L of fluoride. The removal efficiencies of mica alone, activated mica at 800 °C, mica impregnated with iron and mica impregnated with aluminium were found to be 76.02%, 90.21%, 94.40% and 96.88%, respectively. Activated mica and coalesced mica are better adsorbents than mica alone. The optimized pHs were 7.3, 4.4, 7.5, doses of 10, 9 and 8 g, contact time of 40, 35 and 30 min for activated mica, mica impregnated with iron and mica impregnated with aluminium, respectively. The adsorption process obeyed Freundlich model for mica impregnated with aluminium indicating monolayer mechanism, whereas activated mica and mica impregnated with iron agreed with both Freundlich and Langmuir models indicating both monolayer homogeneous and heterogeneous surface conditions. From the kinetic perspective, the fluoride adsorptive reaction followed the pseudo-second-order model. Therefore, activated and modified mica are alternative adsorbents for defluoridation of water.
Sea-level rise projections for Sweden based on the new IPCC special report: The ocean and cryosphere in a changing climate
Authors: Hieronymus Magnus , Kalén Ola
Published: January 2020

New sea-level rise projections for Sweden are presented. Compared to earlier projections, we have here, more carefully, taken regional variations in sea-level rise into consideration. The better treatment of regional variations leads to lower sea-level rise projections for Sweden. However, recent research has also shown that Antarctic ice loss, in high emission scenarios, could be greater than what was believed earlier. Taking also this into account, we find a near cancellation between the increased Antarctic contribution and the decrease owing to the better treatment of spatial inhomogeneities. Sweden’s sensitivity to melt from Antarctica and Greenland is also estimated using a new set of sea-level fingerprint kernels, and the sensitivity to melt from Greenland is found to be weak. To illustrate the influence mean sea-level rise has on extreme sea levels, it is also shown how the return period of sea-level extremes changes as a function of time owing to mean sea-level rise in the different projections.
Synthesis, Structure, and Ferroelectricity of a Kaolinite-p--Aminobenzamide Intercalation Compound
Authors: Zhao Shun-Ping , Guo Yu , Zhu Miao-Miao , Wang Jie , Feng Xiao-Liang , Qiao Qiao , Xu Heng
Published: January 2020

The construction of organic-inorganic hybrid ferroelectric materials with larger, high-polarity guest molecules intercalated in kaolinite (K) faces difficulties in terms of synthesis and uncertainty of structure-property relationships. The purpose of the present study was to optimize the synthesis method and to determine the mechanism of ferroelectric behavior of kaolinite intercalated with p-aminobenzamide (PABA), with an eye to improving the design of intercalation methods and better utilization of clay-based ferroelectric materials. The K-PABA intercalation compound (chemical formula Al2Si2O5(OH)4∙(PABA)0.7) was synthesized in an autoclave and then characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The experimental results showed that PABA expanded the kaolinite interlayer from 7.2 Å to 14.5 Å, and the orientation of the PABA molecule was ~70° from the plane of the kaolinite layers. The amino group of the PABA molecule was close to the Si sheet. The presence of intermolecular hydrogen bonds between kaolinite and PABA and among PABA molecules caused macro polarization of K-PABA and dipole inversion under the external electric field, resulting in K-PABA ferroelectricity. Simulation calculations using the Cambridge Sequential Total Energy Package (CASTEP) and the ferroelectricity test revealed the optimized intercalation model and possible ferroelectric mechanism.
The first specimen ofDeinotherium indicum(Mammalia, Proboscidea, Deinotheriidae) from the late Miocene of Kutch, India
Authors: Singh Ningthoujam Premjit , Jukar Advait M. , Patnaik Rajeev , Sharma K. Milankumar , Singh Nongmaithem Amardas , Singh Yumlembam Priyananda
Published: January 2020

Deinotheriidae Bonaparte, 1845 is a family of browsing proboscideans that were widespread in the Old World during the Neogene. From Miocene deposits in the Indian subcontinent, deinotheres are known largely from dental remains. Both large and small species have been described from the region. Previously, only small deinothere species have been identified from Kutch in western India. In the fossiliferous Tapar beds in Kutch, dental remains have been referred to the small speciesDeinotherium sindienseLydekker, 1880, but the specimens are too fragmentary to be systematically diagnostic. Here, we describe a large p4 of a deinothere from the Tapar beds and demonstrate that it is morphologically most similar toDeinotherium indicumFalconer, 1845, a large species of deinothere, thereby confirming the identity of deinotheres at Tapar.Deinotherium indicumfrom Tapar is larger than other deinotheres identified from Kutch and is the first occurrence of the species in the region. This new specimen helps constrain the age of the Tapar beds to the Tortonian and increases the biogeographic range of this species—hitherto only known from two localities on the subcontinent. This specimen also highlights the morphological diversity of South Asian deinothere p4s and allows us to reassess dental apomorphies used to delimit Indian deinothere species. Lastly, we argue that by the late Miocene, small deinotheres in Kutch were replaced by the largeDeinotherium indicum.
Food and Society at Real Alto, an Early Formative Community in Southwest Coastal Ecuador
Authors: Pearsall Deborah M. , Duncan Neil A. , Chandler-Ezell Karol , Ubelaker Douglas H. , Zeidler James A.
Published: January 2020

We investigated foodways at Real Alto, an early Formative (4400–1800 BC) Valdivia site in coastal Ecuador, using starch and phytoliths recovered from 50 stone tools from three residential and two ceremonial structures, as well as 46 human dental calculus samples, to explore how food reflects the social relationships and economy of the community. Maize was important in daily meals and ceremonial foods by the Middle Valdivia (2800–2400 BC), but it was only one component of an agricultural system that included yuca, arrowroot,llerén, canna, yam, jackbean, squash, gourd, chili, and cotton. Ceremonial and everyday foods at Real Alto did not differ: actions surrounding food were both domestic and ceremonial, depending on context. Households had equal access to annual crops and to root-tubers with longer growing seasons. Gelatinized starch was commonly recovered on tools, indicating the processing of cooked foods. Dental calculus residues confirmed common consumption of cooked foods, fruits, and root-tubers. Cultivating crops with different water and growing season requirements necessitated diverse practices, potentially including selection of short-season varieties, hand watering, and growing crops over multiple rainy seasons. The latter two practices required increased labor inputs: access to labor was likely a key element supporting the nascent social hierarchy that emerged by the Middle Valdivia.
Abdication and Regency: The Siamese monarchy 1935–46
Authors: LOCKHART BRUCE M.
Published: January 2020

The abdication of Prajadhipok, King of Siam, in 1935 marked the end of the reign of the country's last absolute ruler and brought a young prince, Ananda Mahidol, to the throne in his place. Over the next decade, Ananda would rule in absentia as he grew up in Switzerland, leaving the regime considerable latitude to consolidate its authority over the monarchy and royal affairs. This article looks at three aspects of this period: the abdication as triumph of the authority of the Constitution over that of the king; the succession to the throne of a branch of the royal family that would otherwise have been bypassed; and the extended regency, which sanctioned rather than resisted the strengthening of government control over the monarchy.
A tree species with an extremely small population: recategorizing the Critically Endangered Acer yangbiense
Authors: Tao Lidan , Han Chunyan , Song Kun , Sun Weibang
Published: January 2020

Acer yangbiense Y.S. Chen & Q.E. Yang (Aceraceae) is a threatened tree species endemic to China, formerly presumed to have declined to only five extant individuals, restricted to Yangbi County, Yunnan Province. Our surveys in 2016, however, located 577 individuals in 12 localities, but only three localities (with a total of 62 individuals) are protected. Nine localities are on private forest land. The population's size structure is an inverse J-curve, but there is a scarcity of trees of the smallest size class and of seedlings. Our surveys also showed that the habitat of A. yangbiense is degraded as a result of the negative effects of agriculture, logging and wood harvesting. Assessment with the IUCN Red List categories and criteria indicates that A. yangbiense should be recategorized from Critically Endangered to Endangered.
TAXONOMIC NOVELTIES IN HETEROPTERYS GROUP APTYCHIA (MALPIGHIACEAE) FROM THE BRAZILIAN ATLANTIC FOREST
Authors: Amorim A. M. , Marinho L. C.
Published: January 2020

We describe two new species of Heteropterys (Malpighiaceae) endemic to the Atlantic Forest of Espírito Santo State, Brazil. Heteropterys eucalyptifolia and H. follianum belong to the Aptychia informal group, due to their petioles with a pair of glands at the base, sessile pedicels, petals exposed in the enlarging bud, and strongly heteromorphic filaments. Morphological descriptions, illustrations, a distribution map and information on the conservation status of the species are provided.
Aeromagnetic Anomalies in Central Yarlung‐Zangbo Suture Zone (Southern Tibet) and Their Geological Origins
Authors: Wang Jie , Yao Changli , Li Zelin
Published: January 2020

Two subparallel east‐west trending linear aeromagnetic anomalies are observed along the central Yarlung‐Zangbo suture zone in southern Tibet. The Yarlung‐Zangbo suture zone represents the boundary of the Eurasian and Indian plates and records the subduction of the Neo‐Tethyan oceanic slab and subsequent continental collision. The two magnetic lineaments are spatially associated with the Gangdese batholith and Xigaze ophiolites, which are separated by the Xigaze fore‐arc basin that is filled with nonmagnetic sedimentary sequences. The Mesozoic‐Cenozoic Gangdese batholith is characterized by widespread I‐type granitoids. The Xigaze ophiolites are dominated by serpentinized mantle peridotites. To investigate the geological origins and deep structures of the magnetic sources of the two magnetic lineaments, a 3‐D inversion of aeromagnetic anomaly data was undertaken. By analyzing our inversion model and further magnetic modeling, it is proposed that the Gangdese batholith has a magmatic root with higher magnetization than the exposed granitoids, indicating that the deeper part of the Gangdese batholith may contain more mafic constituents than the shallow part. The subsurface part of the Xigaze ophiolites resembles a thin slab dipping to the south, implying that the deep‐seated Xigaze ophiolites are also serpentinized and retain complete structure.
Magma Intrusion and Volatile Ascent Beneath Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Wicks C. W. , Dzurisin D. , Lowenstern J. B. , Svarc J.
Published: January 2020

Recent activity has provided new insights into the causes of surface deformation in and around the Yellowstone Caldera, a topic that has been debated since the discovery of caldera floor uplift more than four decades ago. An episode of unusually rapid uplift (>15 cm/yr) centered near Norris Geyser Basin along the north caldera rim began in late 2013 and continued until a Mw 4.9 earthquake on 30 March 2014; thereafter, uplift abruptly switched to subsidence. Uplift at rates of several centimeters per year resumed in 2016 and continued at least through the end of 2018. Modeling of Global Positioning System and interferometric synthetic aperture radar data suggests an evolving process of deep magma intrusion during 1996–2001 followed by volatile ascent and accumulation at shallow levels, perhaps as shallow as a few hundred meters depth. The depth of shallow volatile accumulation appears to have shallowed from the 2014 to the 2016 deformation episode, and frequent eruptions of Steamboat Geyser since March 2018 are likely a surface manifestation of this ongoing process. Hydrothermal explosion features are prominent in the Norris Geyser Basin area, and the apparent shallow nature of the volatile accumulation implies an increased risk of hydrothermal explosions.