bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of soil organic carbon and soil health indicators to treated wastewater irrigation in bioenergy sorghum production on an arid soil
Authors: Chaganti Vijayasatya N. , Ganjegunte Girisha , Somenahally Anil , Hargrove William L. , Ulery April , Enciso Juan M. , Flynn Robert
Published: January 2021

Treated urban wastewater (WW) reuse for crop irrigation is seen as an way to mitigate prolonged drought effects and reduced freshwater (FW) availability for agriculture in arid west Texas. However, the impacts of WW on arid soil health are not clearly understood. This field study evaluated the effects of WW irrigation on soil health indicators including soil organic carbon (SOC), permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC), mineralizable carbon (MC), and soil protein under bioenergy sorghum production. Water type and gypsum + sulfur application were used as main and subplot factors in a split‐plot experimental design with growth year as a repeated measure. Results across time and soil amendments showed that the SOC of WW‐irrigated soils (3.26 g kg−1) was significantly higher than that of FW‐irrigated soils (2.96 g kg−1). This signifies the positive impact of WW to contribute to soil carbon with no associated priming effects. Wastewater and soil amendment application by themselves did not affect other soil health indicators, given their soil salinization potential. Irrespective of the water type and amendment application, soil POXC significantly increased from 245 to 262 mg kg−1 over time, indicating that a labile pool of C was added to the soil. Soil protein concentrations significantly decreased from 1.31 to 1.23 g kg−1 after 2 years, possibly due to mineralization of organic nitrogen. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that WW application did not adversely affect soil health in the short term. Long‐term studies could provide more insight into the sustained effects of WW irrigation on arid soil health.
Assessment of narcotic use in management of post‐op pain after functional endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Gill Kurren S. , Chitguppi Chandala , Haggerty Michelle , Khoury Tawfiq , Fastenberg Judd , Nyquist Gurston , Toskala Elina , Rosen Marc , Rabinowitz Mindy
Published: January 2021

Objectives

Pain and analgesic requirements after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) vary widely. This study aims to quantify pain after routine FESS and determine the most commonly used pain management regimen.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of 100 patients who underwent FESS from Oct 2017 to May 2019. Patients prospectively completed a daily pain diary and reported pain levels that were categorized into no pain (0), mild (1‐3), moderate (4‐7), or severe (8‐10). Patients were categorized into narcotics, non‐narcotics, combination, or none based on type of analgesic used.

Results

Sixty‐nine patients were included. Majority of patients reported either mild (39%) or no pain (28%) during the first 5 PODs. Mean POD1 pain score was 3.98, which decreased with each subsequent POD. On POD1, 37% used opioids (n = 37), 32% used non‐opioids (n = 32), 22% used a combination (n = 22), and 9% used no pain meds (n = 9). Mean number of narcotic pills used within the first 5 PODs was 2 pills on any given day. Age was inversely associated with reported POD1 pain scores (P = .003) and use of preoperative steroids in patients with sinonasal polyposis was associated with lower POD1 pain scores (P = .03).

Conclusions

Even on POD1, majority of patients experienced either mild or no pain, and this decreases with each POD. Narcotics are grossly overprescribed and underutilized by patients postoperatively after FESS. We advocate for more judicious prescribing habits of narcotics by Otolaryngologists after FESS, and emphasize relying on non‐narcotic alternatives like Acetaminophen or NSAIDS to diminish narcotic use and abuse in the postoperative period.

Level of Evidence

4.
Automated Extraction of Skin Wound Healing Biomarkers From In Vivo Label‐Free Multiphoton Microscopy Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Jones Jake D. , Rodriguez Marcos R. , Quinn Kyle P.
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives

Histological analysis is a gold standard technique for studying impaired skin wound healing. Label‐free multiphoton microscopy (MPM) can provide natural image contrast similar to histological sections and quantitative metabolic information using NADH and FAD autofluorescence. However, MPM analysis requires time‐intensive manual segmentation of specific wound tissue regions limiting the practicality and usage of the technology for monitoring wounds. The goal of this study was to train a series of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to segment MPM images of skin wounds to automate image processing and quantification of wound geometry and metabolism.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Two CNNs with a 4‐layer U‐Net architecture were trained to segment unstained skin wound tissue sections and in vivo z‐stacks of the wound edge. The wound section CNN used 380 distinct MPM images while the in vivo CNN used 5,848 with both image sets being randomly distributed to training, validation, and test sets following a 70%, 20%, and 10% split. The accuracy of each network was evaluated on the test set of images, and the effectiveness of automated measurement of wound geometry and optical redox ratio were compared with hand traced outputs of six unstained wound sections and 69 wound edge z‐stacks from eight mice.

Results

The MPM wound section CNN had an overall accuracy of 92.83%. Measurements of epidermal/dermal thickness, wound depth, wound width, and % re‐epithelialization were within 10% error when evaluated on six full wound sections from days 3, 5, and 10 post‐wounding that were not included in the training set. The in vivo wound z‐stack CNN had an overall accuracy of 89.66% and was able to isolate the wound edge epithelium in z‐stacks from eight mice across post‐wound time points to quantify the optical redox ratio within 5% of what was recorded by manual segmentations.

Conclusion

The CNNs trained and presented in this study can accurately segment MPM imaged wound sections and in vivo z‐stacks to enable automated and rapid calculation of wound geometry and metabolism. Although MPM is a noninvasive imaging modality well suited to imaging living wound tissue, its use has been limited by time‐intensive user segmentation. The use of CNNs for automated image segmentation demonstrate that it is possible for MPM to deliver near real‐time quantitative readouts of tissue structure and function. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC
Dual‐Responsive Self‐Healable Carboxylated Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber Based on Dynamic Diels–Alder “Click Chemistry” and Disulfide Metathesis Reaction
Authors: Sarkar Shrabana , Banerjee Sovan Lal , Singha Nikhil K.
Published: January 2021

Introduction of the self‐healing property in the commercially available elastomers promotes the development of high‐end elastomeric products with an extended lifespan. Herein, a smart functionalized carboxylated nitrile rubber (XNBR) is prepared based on dynamic phototriggered disulfide metathesis and thermoreversible Diels–Alder (DA) “click chemistry.” In this case, the XNBR is functionalized with furfuryl amine (FA) followed by crosslinking with a dual functional crosslinker having a maleimide as well as a disulfide functionality for participating in the DA reaction and to induce the UV‐triggered disulfide metathesis reaction, respectively. The self‐healing properties are studied by thermal, mechanical, and microscopy analyses. The crosslinked materials present an impressive self‐healing efficiency of ≈88% and a tensile strength of ≈10 MPa without affecting its oil‐resistance property whereas pristine XNBR and furfuryl‐functionalized XNBR (FXNBR) show tensile strengths only 0.4 and 0.6 MPa, respectively. Furthermore, the crosslinked rubber is demonstrated to be recyclable, without much loss of its mechanical properties. In a nutshell, the use of this smart dual pathway of self‐healing can pave a new direction in sustainable development in NBR elastomers.
Disease Onset in Huntington's Disease: When Is the Conversion?
Authors: Oosterloo Mayke , de Greef Bianca T.A. , Bijlsma Emilia K. , Durr Alexandra , Tabrizi Sarah J. , Estevez‐Fraga Carlos , de Die‐Smulders Christine E.M. , Roos Raymund A.C.
Published: January 2021

Background

Determination of disease onset in Huntington's disease is made by clinical experience. The diagnostic confidence level is an assessment regarding the certainty about the clinical diagnosis based on motor signs. A level of 4 means the rater has ≥99% confidence motor abnormalities are unequivocal signs of disease. However, it does not state which motor abnormalities are signs of disease and how many must be present.

Objective

Our aim is to explore how accurate the diagnostic confidence level is in estimating disease onset using the Enroll‐HD data set. For clinical disease onset we use a cut‐off total motor score >5 of the Unified Huntington's Disease Rating Scale. This score is used in the TRACK‐HD study, with ≤5 indicating no substantial motor signs in premanifests.

Methods

At baseline premanifest participants who converted to manifest (converters) and non‐converters were compared for clinical symptoms and diagnostic confidence level. Clinical symptoms and diagnostic confidence levels were longitudinally displayed in converters.

Results

Of 3731 eligible participants, 455 were converters and 3276 non‐converters. Baseline diagnostic confidence levels were significantly higher in converters compared to non‐converters (P < 0.001). 232 (51%) converters displayed a baseline motor score >5 (mean = 6.7). Converters had significantly more baseline clinical symptoms, and higher disease burden compared to non‐converters (P < 0.001). Diagnostic confidence level before disease onset ranged between 1 and 3 in converters.

Conclusions

According to this data the diagnostic confidence level is not an accurate instrument to determine phenoconversion. With trials evaluating disease modifying therapies it is important to develop more reliable diagnostic criteria.
Corporate social responsibility, loan commitment, and social welfare in network duopoly
Authors: Qian Jine , Gong Qiang , Wang Leonard F.S.
Published: January 2021

We investigate strategic corporate social responsibility (CSR) in a network duopoly with loan commitments. We find that the optimal rate of a bank loan decreases with an increasing degree of CSR under certain conditions. The firm's strategic behavior in imperfect competition concerning CSR is beneficial to society with the support of financial institution. It is possibly due to the fact that CSR adopted by a firm is used as a strategic commitment device to capture a larger market share coupled with demand‐side network effects. Our results have important implications on financial policies in a network industry.
Differentially Expressed Circular RNAs in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Ravanidis Stylianos , Bougea Anastasia , Karampatsi Dimitra , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Maniati Matina , Stefanis Leonidas , Doxakis Epaminondas
Published: January 2021

Background

New noninvasive and affordable molecular approaches that will complement current practices and increase the accuracy of Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis are urgently needed. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable noncoding RNAs that accumulate with aging in neurons and are increasingly shown to regulate all aspects of neuronal development and function.

Objectives

Τhe aims of this study were to identify differentially expressed circRNAs in blood mononuclear cells of patients with idiopathic PD and explore the competing endogenous RNA networks affected.

Methods

Eighty‐seven circRNAs were initially selected based on relatively high gene expression in the human brain. More than half of these were readily detectable in blood mononuclear cells using real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Comparative expression analysis was then performed in blood mononuclear cells from 60 control subjects and 60 idiopathic subjects with PD.

Results

Six circRNAs were significantly down‐regulated in patients with PD. The classifier that best distinguished PD consisted of four circRNAs with an area under the curve of 0.84. Cross‐linking immunoprecipitation‐sequencing data revealed that the RNA‐binding proteins bound by most of the deregulated circRNAs include the neurodegeneration‐associated FUS, TDP43, FMR1, and ATXN2. MicroRNAs predicted to be sequestered by most deregulated circRNAs have the Gene Ontology categories “protein modification” and “transcription factor activity” mostly enriched.

Conclusions

This is the first study that identifies specific circRNAs that may serve as diagnostic biomarkers for PD. Because they are highly expressed in the brain and are derived from genes with essential brain functions, they may also hint on the PD pathways affected. © 2021 Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Palmoplantar keratoderma with deafness phenotypic variability in a patient with an inherited GJB2 frameshift variant and novel missense variant
Authors: Bedoukian Emma C. , Rentas Stefan , Skraban Cara , Shao Qing , Treat James , Laird Dale W. , Sullivan Kathleen E.
Published: January 2021

Background

Variants in the GJB2 gene encoding the gap junction protein connexin‐26 (Cx26) can cause autosomal recessive nonsyndromic hearing loss or a variety of phenotypically variable autosomal dominant disorders that effect skin and hearing, such as palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) with deafness and keratitis–ichthyosis–deafness (KID) syndrome. Here, we report a patient with chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, hyperkeratosis with resorption of the finger tips, profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, and normal hair and ocular examination. Exome analysis identified a novel missense variant in GJB2 (NM_004004.5:c.101T>A, p.Met34Lys) that was inherited from a mosaic unaffected parent in the setting of a well‐reported GJB2 loss of function variant (NM_004004.5:c.35delG, p.Gly12Valfs*2) on the other allele.

Method

Rat epidermal keratinocytes were transfected with cDNA encoding wildtype Cx26 and/or the Met34Lys mutant of Cx26. Fixed cells were immunolabeled in order to assess the subcellular location of the Cx26 mutant and cell images were captured.

Results

Expression in rat epidermal keratinocytes revealed that the Met34Lys mutant was retained in the endoplasmic reticulum, unlike wildtype Cx26, and failed to reach the plasma membrane to form gap junctions. Additionally, the Met34Lys mutant acted dominantly to wildtype Cx26, restricting its delivery to the cell surface.

Conclusion

Overall, we show the p.Met34Lys variant is a novel dominant acting variant causing PPK with deafness. The presence of a loss a function variant on the other allele creates a more severe clinical phenotype, with some features reminiscent of KID syndrome.
District metered area design through multicriteria and multiobjective optimization
Authors: Brentan Bruno M. , Carpitella Silvia , Izquierdo Joaquín , Luvizotto Edevar , Meirelles Gustavo
Published: January 2021

The design of district metered areas (DMA) in potable water supply systems is of paramount importance for water utilities to properly manage their systems. Concomitant to their main objective, namely, to deliver quality water to consumers, the benefits include leakage reduction and prompt reaction in cases of natural or malicious contamination events. Given the structure of a water distribution network (WDN), graph theory is the basis for DMA design, and clustering algorithms can be applied to perform the partitioning. However, such sectorization entails a number of network modifications (installing cut‐off valves and metering and control devices) involving costs and operation changes, which have to be carefully studied and optimized. Given the complexity of WDNs, optimization is usually performed using metaheuristic algorithms. In turn, optimization may be single or multiple‐objective. In this last case, a large number of solutions, frequently integrating the Pareto front, may be produced. The decision maker has eventually to choose one among them, what may be tough task. Multicriteria decision methods may be applied to support this last step of the decision‐making process. In this paper, DMA design is addressed by (i) proposing a modified k‐means algorithm for partitioning, (ii) using a multiobjective particle swarm optimization to suitably place partitioning devices, (iii) using fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to weight the four objective functions considered, and (iv) using technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) to rank the Pareto solutions to support the decision. This joint approach is applied in a case of a well‐known WDN of the literature, and the results are discussed.
On multiple solutions for a fourth order nonlinear singular boundary value problems arising in epitaxial growth theory
Authors: Verma Amit Kumar , Pandit Biswajit , Agarwal Ravi P.
Published: January 2021

In this article, we consider the fourth order non‐self‐adjoint singular boundary value problem

with λ as a parameter measures the speed at which new particles are deposited. This differential equation is non‐self‐adjoint, so finding its solutions is not easy by usual methods. Also, this does not have a unique solution; therefore, finite differences and discrete methods may not be applicable. Here, to find approximate solutions, we propose to use the Adomian decomposition method (ADM) and compute the approximate solutions which are fully dependent on the size of the parameter λ. Here, we prove theoretically that the approximate solutions converge to the exact solutions. For small positive values of parameter λ, the above equation has two solutions. No solutions could be found for large positive values of the parameter. The uniqueness of the solution may not be guaranteed for a fixed positive value of the parameter. For negative values of parameter existences of the solution are always guaranteed.
Elastic magnetic curves of ferromagnetic and superparamagnetic models
Authors: Körpınar Talat , Demirkol Rıdvan Cem , Körpınar Zeliha
Published: January 2021

In this paper, new energy functionals are described via the variational approach method. By doing this, a new class of elastic curves is described in the three‐dimensional ordinary space. An alternative method is also investigated to compute critical points of the bending energy functionals acting on a class of magnetic curves. Then, classifications of these critical curves are presented as elastic magnetic curves of the Frenet–Serret vectors family. Moreover, the dynamics of the elastic magnetic curves of ferromagnetic and superparamagnetic models are discussed with their numerical and analytical analysis.
Gambling disorder in the context of outpatient counselling and treatment: Background and design of a prospective German cohort study
Authors: Schwarzkopf Larissa , Loy Johanna K. , Braun‐Michl Barbara , Grüne Bettina , Sleczka Pawel , Kraus Ludwig
Published: January 2021

Objective

The prospective naturalistic study ‘Katamnese‐Studie’ conducted between 2014 and 2019 gathers evidence on the course of gambling disorder in German routine outpatient addiction care. This study elucidates design and methodological advantages and caveats of the study.

Methods

Participants of the multi‐centre cohort received written questionnaires at admission and at 6‐, 12‐, 24‐ and 36‐month follow‐up to assess socio‐demographic data, gambling behaviour, gambling‐related consequences and care offers sought. Subsequently, self‐reports were linked to client‐individual routine documentation for the German Addiction Care Statistical Service. Furthermore, employees of participating outpatient addiction care facilities were surveyed regarding experiences with and attitudes towards gambling disorder. Multivariate longitudinal regression models will portray changes in the severity of gambling disorder and gambling behaviour and explore associated client‐ and care‐related factors.

Conclusion

The ‘Katamnese‐Studie’ covers the whole spectrum of outpatient gambling care. Keeping the design‐related caveats in mind (reliability of self‐reports, loss‐to‐follow‐up and issues regarding causal inference), the study is anticipated to draw a comprehensive picture of routine outpatient gambling care and key factors related to sustained remission. In the medium term, this information might support the development and subpopulation‐specific adaptation of recommendations on how to structure process and content of outpatient gambling care.
Efficient J‐oriented tin basis sets for the correlated calculations of indirect nuclear spin–spin coupling constants
Authors: Rusakov Yuriy Yu , Rusakova Irina L.
Published: January 2021

New J‐oriented tin basis sets, acvXz‐J (X = 2, 3, 4), have been developed at the level of the second‐order polarization propagator approximation with the coupled‐cluster single and double amplitudes, SOPPA (CCSD), for the purpose of correlated calculations of indirect nuclear spin–spin coupling constants involving tin nucleus. High‐quality coupled‐cluster calculations of several tin‐proton and tin‐carbon spin–spin coupling constants, performed with one of the newly developed basis sets, namely, the acv3z‐J, taking into account relativistic, solvent, and vibrational corrections showed that the acv3z‐J basis set is capable to provide reliable results, as compared with the experimental data.
Elastomer coils for wearable MR detection
Authors: Port Andreas , Luechinger Roger , Brunner David O. , Pruessmann Klaas P.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

To explore the use of conductive elastomer for MR signal detection and the utility of this approach for wearable detector arrays.

Methods

An elastomer filled with silver microparticles was used to form stretchable radiofrequency coils for MR detection. Their electrical performance in terms of the Qunloaded and Q ratio was assessed in the relaxed state and under repeated strain up to 40%. In a phantom imaging study, the signal‐to‐noise ratio yield of conductive elastomer coils was compared with that of a reference copper coil. Four elastomer coils were integrated with a stretchable textile substrate to form a wearable array for knee imaging. The array was employed for multiple‐angle and kinematic knee imaging in vivo.

Results

The elastomer coils proved highly stretchable and mechanically robust. Upon repeated stretching by 20%, a medium‐sized coil element settled at Qunloaded of 42 in the relaxed state and 32 at full strain, reflecting sample‐noise dominance. The signal‐to‐noise ratio of elastomer coils was found to be 8% to 16% lower than that achieved with a conventional copper coil. Multiple‐angle and kinematic knee imaging with the wearable array yielded high‐quality results indicating robustness of detection performance against stretching and warping of the array.

Conclusion

Conductive elastomer is a viable material for MR detection. Coils made from this material reconcile high stretchability and adequate electrical performance with ease of manufacturing. Conductive elastomer also offers inherent restoring forces and is readily washable and sanitizable, making it an excellent basis of wearable detector front ends.
Vertically aligned Co3O4 nanorods as a platform for inverted all‐oxide heterojunctions
Authors: Gilzad Kohan Mojtaba , Solomon Getachew , You Shujie , Yusupov Khabib , Concina Isabella , Vomiero Alberto
Published: January 2021

Direct stacking of n‐type and p‐type metal oxide (MOx) semiconductors is one of the appealing directions toward low cost and environmentally friendly photovoltaics (PVs). However, the main shortcoming, hindering the PV performance of MOx heterojunction devices is attributed to the tradeoff between light absorption and maximized carrier extraction in p‐type MOx. In this work, we demonstrate that the nanorod (NR) geometry of Co3O4 light absorber with a nearly ideal bandgap of ∼1.48 eV, can remove this hurdle through strong internal light trapping of adjacent one‐dimensional (1D) structure and enhanced carrier mobility. The inverted n‐on‐p configuration of the core‐shell 1D heterojunction, obtained by depositing a thin TiO2 n‐type layer, resulted in enlarged charge generation compared to the typical p‐on‐n counterpart device. Fine‐tuning of Co3O4 NRs length, permits PV investigation of the heterojunctions with respect to absorber layers thickness. The optimized Co3O4 NRs/TiO2 heterojunction (30 nm Co3O4 NR length) presented a record high open circuit photovoltage (Voc) of (0.52 ± 0.03) V under 1 sun irradiation. Impedance analysis of the heterojunctions, indicates formation of the p+‐p depletion. The presented work can highlight some vital venues to enhance photoconversion efficiency of the all‐oxide heterojunctions while introducing a pioneer contender as inverted (n‐on‐p) MOx heterojunction.
A Lagrangean relaxation approach to lifetime maximization of directional sensor networks
Authors: Astorino Annabella , Gaudioso Manlio , Miglionico Giovanna
Published: January 2021

We consider the directional sensor network lifetime maximization problem (DSLMP). Given a set of directional sensor and target locations, the problem consists in assigning, at each time unit of a given time horizon, the action radius, the aperture angle, and the orientation direction to all sensors. The objective is to maximize the number of time units when all targets are covered, under certain constraints on sensor available energy. We present a mixed integer nonlinear programming formulation and tackle it by Lagrangean decomposition and subgradient optimization. The algorithm is equipped with a repairing heuristics aimed at finding good‐quality feasible solutions to DSLMP. The results of the application of the proposed approach to a number of problem instances are also reported.
A global eigenvalue reassignment method for the stabilization of nonlinear reduced‐order models
Authors: Rezaian Elnaz , Wei Mingjun
Published: January 2021

The systematic and physics‐infused construction of a projection‐based reduced‐order model (ROM) shows the capability to replicate the original high‐dimensional system's dynamical evolution but with a fractional computational cost. However, certain nonlinear features and high‐frequency contributions may be lost throughout the aggressive order reduction. Thus, ROMs in a broad category of fluid dynamics applications require stabilization and closure methods to compensate for the key contributions missed through the model order reduction. A new stabilization method for nonlinear ROMs is proposed in this study that learns a linear control law to drive the nonlinear ROM toward maximum agreement with the full‐order model, where a total power constraint guarantees the stability of the nonlinear ROM. This new method achieves both stability and accuracy for nonlinear proper orthogonal decomposition‐Galerkin ROMs in two chosen applications with strong shock‐wake interactions and unsteady oscillations, which trigger strong instabilities in the original ROMs before stabilization. A multistage layout is designed to further enhance the proposed stabilization method for more efficient and robust stabilization of nonlinear ROMs with a large number of unstable modes.
Coupled thermoelectroelastic analysis of thick and thin laminated piezoelectric structures by exact geometry solid‐shell elements based on the sampling surfaces method
Authors: Kulikov Gennady M. , Plotnikova Svetlana V.
Published: January 2021

A hybrid‐mixed exact geometry four‐node thermopiezoelectric solid‐shell element through the sampling surfaces (SaS) formulation is proposed. The SaS formulation is based on the choice of an arbitrary number of SaS within layers parallel to the middle surface and located at Chebyshev polynomial nodes in order to introduce the temperatures, displacements and electric potentials of these surfaces as basic shell unknowns. Due to the variational formulation, the outer surfaces and interfaces are also included into a set of SaS. Such choice of unknowns with the use of Lagrange polynomials in the through‐thickness approximations of temperatures, temperature gradient, displacements, strains, electric potential, and electric field leads to a very compact higher‐order thermopiezoelectric shell formulation. To implement efficient analytical integration throughout the solid‐shell element, the extended assumed natural strain method is employed for all components of the temperature gradient, strain tensor, and electric field vector. The developed hybrid‐mixed four‐node thermopiezoelectric solid‐shell element is based on the Hu–Washizu variational principle and shows a superior performance in the case of coarse meshes. It can be useful for the three‐dimensional thermoelectroelastic analysis of thick and thin doubly curved laminated piezoelectric shells under thermal loading, since the SaS formulation allows one to obtain the numerical solutions with a prescribed accuracy, which asymptotically approach exact solutions of the theory of thermopiezoelectricity as a number of SaS tends to infinity.
Hybrid multi‐objective optimization algorithm using Taylor series model and Spider Monkey Optimization
Authors: Menon Radhika , Kulkarni Anju , Singh Deepak , Venkatesan Mithra
Published: January 2021

Multi‐objective optimization is used for optimizing a number of objectives simultaneously. Mostly, the optimization algorithms considered the previous iterative position to find the next position updates. The main intention of this research is to design and develop a new model to solve the computational complexity, and the resource allocation problem. Based on this perspective, the Taylor series model and its predictive theory are applied to Spider Monkey Optimization (SMO), and a new optimization, named Taylor‐Spider Monkey Optimization (TaySMO) is developed. The proposed TaySMO computes the updated position of the swarm using the local leader phase and the global leader phase. However, a new position update equation is derived to enhance the searching process of the SMO. Here, multiple objectives such as, throughput, power, and fairness index are considered to solve the resource allocation problem. However, the performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated using the conventional optimization function in terms of fitness function and convergence criteria as the mean square error (MSE) with the neural network learning is 0.3747, congestion rate of the resource allocation problem is 8.736E‐23, and MSE of the spectrum sensing is 8.74E‐23, respectively.
Nurse practitioner work patterns: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lowe Grainne , Tori Kathleen , Jennings Natasha , Schiftan Dan , Driscoll Andrea
Published: January 2021

Aim

The aim was to determine how nurse practitioner (NP) roles are translated into clinical practice across Victoria, Australia. This paper reports details about NP work patterns and scopes of practice across multiple clinical settings and geographic locations.

Design

A quantitative survey design was used. A data abstraction tool, based on previous work, was adapted for this study.

Methods

All NPs in one state of Australia were eligible to participate in the study and invited to complete an online survey about their NP practice. A previously developed data collection tool, capturing practice patterns of NPs, was adapted for online use in REDCAP. The data were exported, and descriptive statistics were analysed using SPSS.

Results

Participants were mostly female, with males accounting for 25%. Findings indicate several NPs working in outpatient settings, community settings and forensic care. Patterns of practice—prescribing and ordering diagnostics—are associated with clinical context and model of care of the NP work.
Effectiveness of neonatal emergency nursing education through simulation training: Flipped learning based on Tanner’s Clinical Judgement Model
Authors: Yang Sun‐Yi
Published: January 2021

Aim

To examine the effects of neonatal simulation‐based practice by applying flipped learning based on Tanner's clinical judgement model to pre‐simulation briefing for nursing students.

Design

A quasi‐experimental non‐equivalent control group pre‐ and postintervention design.

Methods

Using Tanner's clinical judgment model, flipped learning was developed and applied to the pre‐simulation briefing curriculum prior to the neonatal nursing simulation exercise. Flipped learning was compared with a general pre‐simulation briefing with 65 South Korean students. From September 7, 2019, to October 25, 2019.

Results

The experimental group's critical thinking, self‐confidence and clinical judgement ability increased, but knowledge, satisfaction and anxiety did not differ from that of the control group. Pre‐simulation briefing design focuses on improving students’ environmental comfort and reducing anxiety rather than developing complex reasoning skills and clinical judgement abilities. Applying flipped learning based on Tanner's clinical judgement model to pre‐simulation briefing increased critical thinking, self‐confidence and clinical judgement ability.
The experience of dealing with defecation dysfunction by changing the eating behaviours of people with rectal cancer following sphincter‐saving surgery: A qualitative study
Authors: Liu Wen , Xu Jian Min , Zhang Yu Xia , Lu Hui Juan , Xia Hai Ou
Published: January 2021

Aim

To explore the experience of dealing with defecation dysfunction by changing the eating behaviours of people with rectal cancer following sphincter‐saving surgery.

Design

The descriptive qualitative design was applied.

Methods

Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 36 purposively selected rectal cancer survivors who had experienced sphincter‐saving surgery. All interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The thematic analysis was used to structure the data analysis.

Results

Three major themes, namely “have motivations to change diet”; “need strategies to change diet” and “face barriers to change diet” were generated along with 12 subthemes. Overall, needing to change one's dietary behaviour is the most important theme in addressing defecation dysfunction in patients following sphincter‐saving surgery. Future studies need to focus more on the specific relationship between different food types and the degree of defecation dysfunction. Systematic, scientific and continuous instructions on eating behaviour are in great need for patients after sphincter‐saving surgery.
A novel approach for the solution of fractional diffusion problems with conformable derivative
Authors: Bayrak Mine A. , Demir Ali , Ozbilge Ebru
Published: January 2021

The truncated solution of space–time fractional differential equations, including conformable derivative is constructed by the help of residual power series method (RPSM). At the first step the space–time fractional differential equations are transformed into space fractional differential equations or time fractional differential equations by means of a specific transformation. Then the solutions are obtained in the form of fractional power series by semi‐analytical method RSPM. Finally, the illustrative examples show that this method is applicable, for constructing the truncated analytic solutions for space–time fractional differential equations.
Supplemental Parenteral Nutrition in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Bozzetti Federico
Published: January 2021

This letter to the editor remarks on the recent article by Bouleuc et al. on parenteral nutrition for patients with advanced cancer cachexia.
Comparing B3LYP and B97 Dispersion‐corrected Functionals for Studying Adsorption and Vibrational Spectra in Nitrogen Reduction
Authors: Grossman Esther F. , Daramola Damilola A. , Botte Gerardine G.
Published: January 2021

Electrochemical ammonia synthesis is being actively studied as a low temperature, low pressure alternative to the Haber‐Bosch process. This work studied pure iridium as the catalyst for ammonia synthesis, following promising experimental results of Pt‐Ir alloys. The characteristics studied include bond energies, bond lengths, spin densities, and free and adsorbed vibrational frequencies for the molecules N2, N, NH, NH2, and NH3. Overall, these descriptive characteristics explore the use of dispersion‐corrected density functional theory methods that can model N2 adsorption – the key reactant for electrochemical ammonia synthesis via transition metal catalysis. Specifically, three methods were tested: hybrid B3LYP, a dispersion‐corrected form B3LYP‐D3, and semi‐empirical B97‐D3. The latter semi‐empirical method was explored to increase the accuracy obtained in vibrational analysis as well as reduce computational time. Two lattice surfaces, (111) and (100), were compared. The adsorption energies are stronger on (100) and follow the trend EB3LYP>EB3LYP‐D3>EB97‐D3 on both surfaces.
Rhabdomyosarcoma of the female genitourinary tract: Primary and relapsed disease in infants and older children. Treatment results of five Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS) trials and one registry
Authors: Sparber‐Sauer Monika , Matle Malin , Vokuhl Christian , Hallmen Erika , von Kalle Thekla , Münter Marc , Timmermann Beate , Bielack Stefan S. , Klingebiel Thomas , Koscielniak Ewa , Seitz Guido ,   the CWS Study Group
Published: January 2021

Background

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) of the female genitourinary tract (FGU‐RMS) located at the vagina or uterus is one of the most favorable RMS sites. Little is known about treatment and outcome in infants and relapsed disease (RD).

Methods

Characteristics, treatment, and outcome of 71 children with FGU‐RMS registered within five Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS) trials and one registry (1981‐2019) were evaluated.

Results

FGU‐RMS was diagnosed in 67 patients with localized disease (LD) at a median age of 2.89 years (0.09‐18.08). Multimodal treatment consisted of chemotherapy (CHT) (n = 66), secondary surgery (n = 32), and radiotherapy (n = 11). Age at diagnosis ≤12 months was the only significant negative prognostic factor influencing the event‐free survival (EFS). Ten‐year EFS and overall survival (OS) for infants ≤12 months were 50% and 81%, respectively. In contrast, children with LD >1 year and ≤10 years had a 10‐year EFS and OS of 78% and 94% (P = .038), and >10 years of 82% and 88%, respectively (P = .53). Metastatic disease was observed in four patients of which three are alive. RD occurred in five of 12 infants ≤1 year and 10/55 children at a median of 1.38 years (0.53‐2.97) after initial diagnosis. Treatment of patients with RD consisted of multimodal treatment (n = 13) or resection only (n = 2). Nine patients (60%) were alive in clinical remission at a median of 7.02 years (1.23‐16.72) after diagnosis of RD.

Conclusion

Infants with FGU‐RMS have a higher relapse rate than older children with FGU‐RMS, but prognosis is fair.
The role of cellulose nanofibrillated fibers produced with combined supercritical carbon dioxide and high‐pressure homogenization process as reinforcement material in biodegradable polymer
Authors: Rizal Samsul , Sadasivuni Kishor Kumar , Atiqah M. S. Nurul , Olaiya Niyi G. , Paridah Md Tahir , Abdullah C. K. , Alfatah Tata , Mistar E. M. , Khalil H. P. S. Abdul
Published: January 2021

The production of kenaf bast cellulose nanofibrillated fiber (CNF) using a combined method of supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2) and high‐pressure homogenization as the reinforcement with biopolymer were studied. The obtained CNF was used as reinforcement in polylactic acid using the solvent casting method. The obtained CNF were verified using TEM and FTIR analysis to approve the effectiveness of the technique. The dispersion of kenaf bast cellulose nanofibrillated fiber in modified PLA was studied with scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Further characterization, such as, mechanical, thermal, and wettability properties of the composite was also analyzed. The TEM and FTIR confirmed the formation of nanofiber, and the FTIR result showed a typical bond present in cellulose nanofibrillated fiber. The SEM and AFM showed good dispersion of the kenaf bast cellulose nanofibrilated fiber in PLA. The mechanical and thermal properties of the composite were significantly improved compared with the neat PLA. The wettability showed that the addition of CNF increased the hydrophilicity of the sample. The production of CNF through combine methods displayed comparable properties to those produced from conventional methods and the CNF preparation method in this study is simplified and adaptable for potential industrial application.
A unique brain germinal matrix involvement in cytomegalovirus infected fetuses: A retrospective neurosonographic analysis with outcome correlation
Authors: Birnbaum Roee , Winsteen Adi , Brusilov Michael , Wolman Igal , Ben‐Sira Liat , Malinger Gustavo , Krajden Haratz Karina
Published: January 2021

Objective

To study the clinical significance of brain germinal matrix (GM) changes in cytomegalovirus (CMV) infected fetuses.

Method

This is a retrospective analysis. Group A; isolated GM finding, with or without lenticulostriatal vasculopathy (LSV). Group B; non‐isolated lesion. Amniocentesis, urinalysis, postnatal US and developmental assessment, were obtained.

Results

Group A and B included 18 and four fetuses, respectively. In group A, mean fetal age at diagnosis was 34.3 weeks (31–38 weeks). In 15/18 (83.3%), the lesion was bilateral and LSV was present in 8/18 (44.4%). Small cysts appeared inside the lesion in 5/18 (27.7%). MRI was normal in 8/18 (44.4%). Subtle or inconclusive findings were reported in the remaining fetuses. Brain ultrasound was normal in 10/18 (55.5%) of newborns. In the remaining, caudothalamic cyst with or without LSV, or isolated LSV were found. All newborns are developing normally at a mean follow‐up age of 33.3 months (+/− 19.6 moths). In group B, all four patients requested for termination of pregnancy.

Conclusion

Fetal CMV infection may cause focal GM changes, frequently accompanied by LSV, late in pregnancy. These changes may be isolated, or as part of a more generalized brain damage. When isolated, favorable prognosis is expected.
Effect of pre‐mastication on dispersion of nanoclay in presence of carbon black in an inner liner compound: Studies on physicomechanical and functional properties
Authors: Banerjee Koushik , Chanda Jagannath , Ghosh Chowdhury Soumya , Pal Koushik , Mukhopadhyay Rabindra , Bhattacharyya Sanjay Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Abhijit
Published: January 2021

The present study demonstrates the use of “pre‐mastication” technique for getting higher dispersion of organoclay, Cloisite 15A, in an inner liner compound based on 70:30 bromobutyl and natural rubber blend, in presence of higher concentration of carbon black (60 phr) for the improvement of functional properties like fatigue cut growth and air permeability resistance. Studies have showed that the organoclay was almost equally distributed within the blend both in absence as well as in presence of carbon black. The vulcanization curve showed a marked increase in cure acceleration as well as a significant rise in the maximum torque value because of higher crosslinking aided by the participation of the quaternary amine present in Cloisite 15A; however, in the carbon black loaded compound, the cure acceleration was not so pronounced because of engaging interaction between amine and functional groups of carbon black. The microscopic study revealed a good dispersion of Cloisite 15A within the elastomer blend‐ in presence of carbon black. The anisotropic platelets of Cloisite 15A and carbon black particles jointly formed “nano units”, which occluded a portion of elastomer segments vis‐a‐vis partial intercalation within the clay gallery. Such a reinforcing model was instrumental in improving the physicomechanical and functional properties under static and dynamic conditions. The organoclay displayed a much‐improved properties at 2 and 4 phr doses in presence of 60 phr carbon black because of formation of enough “nano units” while deterioration was observed at 6 phr dose due to clay aggregation. Based on the results obtained on functional properties it was concluded that the 4 phr of organoclay compounded in “pre‐mastication” mode delivered the best improvement and thus it was recommended for future up‐scaling study.
Optimizing ceftaroline dosing in critically ill patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Kalaria Shamir , Williford Sarah , Guo Dong , Shu Yan , Medlin Christopher , Li Matthew , Yeung Siu Yan Amy , Ali Farhan , Jean Wisna , Gopalakrishnan Mathangi , Heavner Mojdeh
Published: January 2021

Background and Objectives

Currently, no dosing information exists for ceftaroline fosamil in patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). The objectives of this study are to characterize the pharmacokinetics of ceftaroline in critically ill patients undergoing CRRT modalities and to derive individualized dosing recommendations.

Methods

This pharmacokinetic study aimed to enroll critically ill patients receiving ceftaroline fosamil and any CRRT modality from adult intensive care units. Selection of the specific CRRT modality and dosing regimen was based on clinical discretion. Pre‐filter, post‐filter, and ultrafiltrate samples were obtained before the administration of the fourth dose, after the completion of the infusion, and up to five additional time points post‐infusion. Plasma concentrations were measured using a validated ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography assay. Individual pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using non‐compartmental analysis.

Results

Four patients were enrolled to investigate the need for dosing adjustments. The average sieving coefficient for ceftaroline was 0.81 ± 0.1, indicating high filter efficiency. The average volume of distribution was 41.8 L (0.48 L/kg) and is within the previously reported range in patients with normal renal function. Non‐renal clearance accounted for more than 50% of the total clearance observed in patients. The observed pharmacokinetic profiles suggest that the pharmacodynamic target for 2‐log10 CFU reduction from baseline (%fT >1 mg/L of 50%) was met for each patient. Due to the impact of CRRT and non‐renal clearance, dosing recommendations were derived for different ranges of effluent flow rates and adjusted body weights. For a patient with an adjusted body weight of 70 kg and receiving CRRT at an effluent flow rate of 3 L/h, a ceftaroline fosamil dosing regimen of 400 mg every 12 h is proposed.

Conclusion

Ceftaroline is cleared extensively in critically ill patients receiving CRRT and may impact pharmacodynamic target achievement. Dose adjustments should be based on the intensity of the CRRT regimen, patient weight, and the clinical status of the patient.