bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the uptake of new hip replacement implants in the UK: a cohort study using data from the National Joint Registry for England and Wales
Authors: Penfold Chris M , Blom Ashley W , Sayers Adrian , Wilkinson J Mark , Hunt Linda , Judge Andrew , Whitehouse Michael R
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Primary: describe uptake of new implant components (femoral stem or acetabular cup/shell) for total hip replacements (THRs) in the National Joint Registry for England and Wales (NJR). Secondary: compare the characteristics of: (a) surgeons and (b) patients who used/received new rather than established components.

Design

Cohort of 618 393 primary THRs performed for osteoarthritis (±other indications) by 4979 surgeons between 2008 and 2017 in England and Wales from the NJR. We described the uptake of new (first recorded use >2008, used within 5 years) stems/cups, and variation in uptake by surgeons (primary objectives). We explored surgeon-level and patient-level factors associated with use/receipt of new components with logistic regression models (secondary objectives).

Outcomes

Primary outcomes: total number of new cups/stems, proportion of operations using new versus established components. Secondary outcomes: odds of: (a) a surgeon using a new cup/stem in a calendar-year, (b) a patient receiving a new rather than established cup/stem.

Results

Sixty-eight new cups and 72 new stems were used in 47 606 primary THRs (7.7%) by 2005 surgeons (40.3%) 2008–2017. Surgeons used a median of one new stem and cup (25%–75%=1–2 both, max=10 cups, max=8 stems). Surgeons performed a median total of 22 THRs (25%–75%=5–124, range=1–3938) in the period 2008–2017. Surgeons used new stems in a median of 5.0% (25%–75%=1.3%–16.1%) and new cups in a median of 9.4% (25%–75%=2.8%–26.7%) of their THRs. Patients aged <55 years old versus those 55–80 had higher odds of receiving a new rather than established stem (OR=1.83, 95% CI=1.73–1.93) and cup (OR=1.31, 95% CI=1.25–1.37). Women had lower odds of receiving a new stem (OR=0.87, 95% CI=0.84–0.90), higher odds of receiving a new cup (OR=1.06, 95% CI=1.03–1.09).

Conclusions

Large numbers of new THR components have been introduced in the NJR since 2008. 40% of surgeons have tried new components, with wide variation in how many types and frequency they have been used.
Protocol of the SOMNIA project: an observational study to create a neurophysiological database for advanced clinical sleep monitoring
Authors: van Gilst Merel M , van Dijk Johannes P , Krijn Roy , Hoondert Bertram , Fonseca Pedro , van Sloun Ruud J G , Arsenali Bruno , Vandenbussche Nele , Pillen Sigrid , Maass Henning , van den Heuvel Leonie , Haakma Reinder , Leufkens Tim R , Lauwerijssen Coen , Bergmans Jan W M , Pevernagie Dirk , Overeem Sebastiaan
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Polysomnography (PSG) is the primary tool for sleep monitoring and the diagnosis of sleep disorders. Recent advances in signal analysis make it possible to reveal more information from this rich data source. Furthermore, many innovative sleep monitoring techniques are being developed that are less obtrusive, easier to use over long time periods and in the home situation. Here, we describe the methods of the Sleep and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Monitoring with Non-Invasive Applications (SOMNIA) project, yielding a database combining clinical PSG with advanced unobtrusive sleep monitoring modalities in a large cohort of patients with various sleep disorders. The SOMNIA database will facilitate the validation and assessment of the diagnostic value of the new techniques, as well as the development of additional indices and biomarkers derived from new and/or traditional sleep monitoring methods.

Methods and analysis

We aim to include at least 2100 subjects (both adults and children) with a variety of sleep disorders who undergo a PSG as part of standard clinical care in a dedicated sleep centre. Full-video PSG will be performed according to the standards of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Each recording will be supplemented with one or more new monitoring systems, including wrist-worn photoplethysmography and actigraphy, pressure sensing mattresses, multimicrophone recording of respiratory sounds including snoring, suprasternal pressure monitoring and multielectrode electromyography of the diaphragm.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was reviewed by the medical ethical committee of the Maxima Medical Center (Eindhoven, the Netherlands, File no: N16.074). All subjects provide informed consent before participation.

The SOMNIA database is built to facilitate future research in sleep medicine. Data from the completed SOMNIA database will be made available for collaboration with researchers outside the institute.
Association of employment status and income with self-rated health among waged workers with disabilities in South Korea: population-based panel study
Authors: Choi Jae Woo , Kim Juyeong , Han Euna , Kim Tae Hyun
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association of employment status and income with self-rated health among waged workers with disabilities in South Korea.

Methods

This study used the Panel Survey of Employment for the Disabled from 2011 to 2015. A total of 951 waged workers with disabilities were selected as baseline subjects in 2011 and were followed up for 5 years. This study used a generalised linear mixed model after adjusting for covariates.

Results

Among 951 waged workers with disabilities, the results showed that 39.3% of workers with disabilities reported poor self-rated health. Workers with disabilities with a precarious employment status and lower income were 1.22 (95% CI 1.21 to 1.23) and 1.81 (95% CI 1.80 to 1.83) times more likely to have poor self-rated health than those with permanent employment and higher income, respectively. A subgroup analysis found that precarious workers with disabilities in lower income households had higher possibilities of poor self-rated health.

Conclusion

This study suggests that precarious employment and lower income of waged workers with disabilities are significantly associated with poor self-rated health compared with those with permanent jobs or higher income.
Validity of increasing the number of motor control tests within a test battery for discrimination of low back pain conditions in people attending a physiotherapy clinic: a case–control study
Authors: Biele Christoph , Möller Dirk , von Piekartz Harry , Hall Toby , Ballenberger Nikolaus
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To develop a time-efficient motor control (MC) test battery while maximising diagnostic accuracy of both a two-level and three-level classification system for patients with non-specific low back pain (LBP).

Design

Case–control study.

Setting

Four private physiotherapy practices in northern Germany.

Participants

Consecutive males and females presenting to a physiotherapy clinic with non-specific LBP (n=65) were compared with 66 healthy-matched controls.

Primary outcome measures

Accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, Youden index, positive/negative likelihood ratio, area under the curve (AUC)) of a clinically driven consensus-based test battery including the ideal number of test items as well as threshold values and most accurate items.

Results

For both the two and three-level categorisation system, the ideal number of test items was 10. With increasing number of failed tests, the probability of having LBP increases. The overall discrimination potential for the two-level categorisation system of the test is good (AUC=0.85) with an optimal cut-off of three failed tests. The overall discrimination potential of the three-level categorisation system is fair (volume under the surface=0.52). The optimal cut-off for the 10-item test battery for categorisation into none, mild/moderate and severe MC impairment is three and six failed tests, respectively.

Conclusion

A 10-item test battery is recommended for both the two-level (impairment or not) and three-level (none, mild, moderate/severe) categorisation of patients with non-specific LBP.
Medication errors during simulated paediatric resuscitations: a prospective, observational human reliability analysis
Authors: Appelbaum Nicholas , Clarke Jonathan , Feather Calandra , Franklin Bryony , Sinha Ruchi , Pratt Phillip , Maconochie Ian , Darzi Ara
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Medication errors during paediatric resuscitation are thought to be common. However, there is little evidence about the individual process steps that contribute to such medication errors in this context.

Objectives

To describe the incidence, nature and severity of medication errors in simulated paediatric resuscitations, and to employ human reliability analysis to understand the contribution of discrepancies in individual process steps to the occurrence of these errors.

Methods

We conducted a prospective observational study of simulated resuscitations subjected to video microanalysis, identification of medication errors, severity assessment and human reliability analysis in a large English teaching hospital. Fifteen resuscitation teams of two doctors and two nurses each conducted one of two simulated paediatric resuscitation scenarios.

Results

At least one medication error was observed in every simulated case, and a large magnitude (>25% discrepant) or clinically significant error in 11 of 15 cases. Medication errors were observed in 29% of 180 simulated medication administrations, 40% of which considered to be moderate or severe. These errors were the result of 884 observed discrepancies at a number of steps in the drug ordering, preparation and administration stages of medication use, 8% of which made a major contribution to a resultant medication error. Most errors were introduced by discrepancies during drug preparation and administration.

Conclusions

Medication errors were common with a considerable proportion likely to result in patient harm. There is an urgent need to optimise existing systems and to commission research into new approaches to increase the reliability of human interactions during administration of medication in the paediatric emergency setting.
Facial injury management undertaken at US and UK medical treatment facilities during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Breeze John , Bowley Douglas M , Combes James G , Baden James , Rickard Rory F , DuBose Joseph , Powers David B
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To perform the first direct comparison of the facial injuries sustained and treatment performed at USA and UK deployed medical treatment facilities (MTFs) in support of the military campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Setting

The US and UK Joint Theatre Trauma Registries were scrutinised for all patients with facial injuries presenting alive to a UK or US deployed MTF between 1 March 2003 and 31 October 2011.

Participants

US and UK military personnel, local police, local military and civilians.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

An adjusted multiple logistic regression model was performed using tracheostomy as the primary dependent outcome variable and treatment in a US MTF, US or UK military, mandible fracture and treatment of mandible fracture as independent secondary variables.

Results

Facial injuries were identified in 16 944 casualties, with the most common being those to skin/muscle (64%), bone fractures (36%), inner/middle ear (28%) and intraoral damage (11%). Facial injuries were equally likely to undergo surgery in US MTF as UK MTF (OR: 1.06, 95% CI 0.4603 to 1.142, p=0.6656); however, variations were seen in injury type treated. In US MTF, 692/1452 (48%) of mandible fractures were treated by either open or closed reduction compared with 0/167 (0%) in UK MTF (χ2: 113.6; p≤0.0001). US military casualties who had treatment of their mandible fracture (open reduction and internal fixation or mandibulo-maxillary fixation) were less likely to have had a tracheostomy than those who did not undergo stabilisation of the fractured mandible (OR: 0.61, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.86; p=0.0066).

Conclusions

The capability to surgically treat mandible fractures by open or closed reduction should be considered as an integral component of deployed coalition surgical care in the future.
Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the Ocular Surface Disease Index for dry eye disease
Authors: Midorikawa-Inomata Akie , Inomata Takenori , Nojiri Shuko , Nakamura Masahiro , Iwagami Masao , Fujimoto Keiichi , Okumura Yuichi , Iwata Nanami , Eguchi Atsuko , Hasegawa Hitomi , Kinouchi Hikaru , Murakami Akira , Kobayashi Hiroyuki
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire is widely used to evaluate subjective symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) as a primary diagnostic criterion. This study aimed to develop a Japanese version of the OSDI (J-OSDI) and assess its reliability and validity.

Design and setting

Hospital-based cross-sectional observational study.

Participants

A total of 209 patients recruited from the Department of Ophthalmology at Juntendo University Hospital.

Methods

We translated and culturally adapted the OSDI into Japanese. The J-OSDI was then assessed for internal consistency, reliability and validity. We also evaluated the optimal cut-off value to suspect DED using an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis.

Primary outcome measures

Internal consistency, test–retest reliability and discriminant validity of the J-OSDI as well as the optimal cut-off value to suspect DED.

Results

Of the participants, 152 had DED and 57 did not. The J-OSDI total score showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.884), test–retest reliability (interclass correlation coefficient=0.910) and discriminant validity by known-group comparisons (non-DED, 19.4±16.0; DED, 37.7±22.2; p<0.001). Factor validity was used to confirm three subscales within the J-OSDI according to the original version of the questionnaire. Concurrent validity was assessed by Pearson correlation analysis, and the J-OSDI total score showed a strong positive correlation with the Dry Eye-Related Quality-of-Life Score (γ=0.829). The optimal cut-off value of the J-OSDI total score was 36.3 (AUC=0.744).

Conclusions

The J-OSDI was developed and validated in terms of reliability and validity as an effective tool for DED assessment and monitoring in the Japanese population.
Impact of high spinal anesthesia technique on fast-track strategy in cardiac surgery: retrospective study
Authors: Hanada Satoshi , Kurosawa Atsushi , Randall Benjamin , Van Der Horst Theodore , Ueda Kenichi
Published: November 2019

Background and objectives

Although high spinal anesthesia (HSA) has been used in cardiac surgery, the technique has not yet been widely accepted. This retrospective study was designed to investigate the impact of HSA technique on fast-track strategy in cardiac surgery.

Methods

Elective cardiac surgery cases (n=1025) were divided into two groups: cases with HSA combined with general anesthesia (GA) (HSA group, n=188) and cases with GA only (GA group, n=837). In the HSA group, bupivacaine and morphine were intrathecally administered immediately before GA was induced. Outcomes included fast-track extubation (less than 6 hours), extubation in the operating room, fast-track discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU) (less than 48 hours) and hospital (less than 7 days).

Results

In the HSA group, 60.1% were extubated in less than 6 hours after ICU admission, as compared with 39.9% in the GA group (p<0.001). In the HSA group, 33.0% were extubated in the operating room, as compared with 4.4% in the GA group (p<0.001). LOS in the ICU was less than 48 hours in 67.6% in the HSA group, as compared with 57.2% of those in the GA group (p=0.033). LOS in the hospital was less than 7 days in 63.3% in the HSA group, as compared with 53.5% in the GA group (p=0.084).

Conclusions

HSA technique combined with GA in cardiac surgery increased the rate of fast-track extubation (less than 6 hours) when compared with GA only.
Comparison of diagnostic methods for uterine health in dairy cattle on different days postpartum
Authors: Kusaka Hiromi , Hasegawa Ryo , Nishimoto Namiko , Kawahata Masatoshi , Miura Hiroshi , Kikuchi Motohiro , Sakaguchi Minoru
Published: November 2019

Background

Uterine health status is a key factor for dairy management.

Methods

The uteri of 28 Holstein cows were assessed weekly by three different methods: ultrasonography (UT), Metricheck device (MT) and cytobrush (CYT), during two weeks to seven weeks postpartum.

Results

The percentage of cows with an MT‐positive, UT‐positive and CYT‐positive result decreased dramatically at three weeks, four weeks and five weeks postpartum, respectively. The agreement of the results was poor or weak within six weeks postpartum (κ=0.09–0.35), and only at seven weeks moderate or good agreement was achieved (κ=0.60–0.70). When comparing the results obtained by UT and MT, 30 per cent or more of the total cows had conflicting results from postpartum three weeks to six weeks. The uterine health of cows was re‐evaluated by the combined usage of UT and MT referring to CYT. The highest sensitivity was achieved when positive individuals were identified as either MT‐positive or UT‐positive, whereas the highest specificity occurred when results were positive by both MT‐ and UT‐ methods.

Conclusion

The accuracy of early postpartum uterine health status by three methods depended heavily on the time postpartum. The combined use of UT and MT is a practical candidate for cow‐side monitoring method of uterine health.
Partial support for food availability and thermal quality as drivers of density and area used in Yarrow’s Spiny Lizards (Sceloporus jarrovii)
Authors: Patterson L.D. , Blouin-Demers G.
Published: November 2019

Contrary to traditional models, habitat selection in ectotherms may be chiefly based on a habitat’s thermal properties rather than its food availability, due to their physiological dependence on environmental temperature. We tested two hypotheses: that microhabitat use in ectotherms is driven by food availability and that it is driven by thermoregulatory requirements. We predicted that the density of lizards would increase and the mean area used would decrease with the natural arthropod (food) availability (or thermal quality) of a plot, as well as after experimentally increasing plot arthropod availability (or thermal quality). We established two plots in each of four treatments (food-supplemented, shaded, food-supplemented and shaded, and control) on a talus slope in Arizona, USA. We measured the density and area used in Yarrow’s Spiny Lizards (Sceloporus jarrovii Cope in Yarrow, 1875) before and after manipulations, and determined whether lizard density and area used were related to natural arthropod availability or thermal quality at the surface and in retreat sites. Density and area used were unaffected by the manipulations, but both increased with natural arthropod availability and decreased with higher thermal quality in retreat sites. These results provide partial support for both food availability and thermal quality as drivers of density and microhabitat use in S. jarrovii.
A high current focused electron ring-beam column design
Authors: Balamuniappan Pranesh , Ang Wei Kean , Khursheed Anjam
Published: November 2019

There are many applications in electron microscopy, electron spectroscopy, as well as accelerator physics that require the combination of minimizing a focused electron beam’s probe size while maximizing its beam current. This paper describes how this can be done through the use of annular focused electron beam column designs, where an electron beam is propagated and focused in the form of a ring beam. For probe semi-angles of [Formula: see text] radians, a column consisting of two identical electric sectors and two identical focusing lenses functioning with odd symmetry will be presented, together with a wide-angle cold field emission gun design. The column is designed to cancel energy dispersion while limiting geometric aberrations to the third order at the point of final focus. This design is predicted to have over two orders of magnitude higher beam current than the corresponding conventional on-axis focused electron beam columns for the same final probe size. For a 1.2 keV annular electron beam, simulation results predict a spot radius of 4.8 nm at a working distance of 3.4 mm, final beam angle of [Formula: see text] mrad, and energy spread of [Formula: see text] eV.
Beam optics of a superconducting proton-therapy gantry with a large momentum acceptance
Authors: Nesteruk Konrad P. , Calzolaio Ciro , Seidel Mike , Schippers Jacobus M.
Published: November 2019

In proton therapy, the last part of the beam transport system is installed on a rotatable gantry, so that the beam can be aimed at the tumor from different angles. Since such a gantry system consists of many dipole and quadrupole magnets, it is typically a 100–200 tons device of more than 10 m in diameter. The use of superconducting (SC) magnets for proton therapy allows gantries to be significantly lighter and potentially smaller, which is attractive for this medical application. In addition to that, SC combined function magnets enable beam optics with a very large momentum acceptance. The latter can be advantageous for patient treatment, since the irradiation time can then be significantly reduced by avoiding magnet current changes. To design such an achromatic system, we performed precise high-order calculations. To reach the required accuracy and to check consistency of the obtained results, we have used different simulation tools in our iterative design approach. Here, we will describe our beam optics calculations in the code COSY Infinity and particle tracking using OPAL (open source software from PSI) in 3D field maps obtained from detailed magnet calculations performed in Opera. Our method has shown to be advantageous in a complicated beam optics study and it reduces the risk of systematic errors in a design.
Symbolic computations: Dispersive soliton solutions for (3+1)-dimensional Boussinesq and Kadomtsev–Petviashvili dynamical equations and its applications
Authors: Seadawy Aly R. , Tariq Kalim U. , Liu Jian-Guo
Published: November 2019

In this paper, the auxiliary expansion equation method is applied to compute the analytical wave solutions for (3[Formula: see text]+[Formula: see text]1)-dimensional Boussinesq and Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (KP) equations. A simple transformation is carried out to reduce the set of nonlinear partial differential equations (NPDEs) into ODEs. These obtained results hold numerous traveling wave solutions that are of key importance in elucidating some physical circumstance.
Acoustic wave confinement in two-dimensional phononic crystal with multiple nested resonators
Authors: Wang Xiao-Peng , Sun Hui , Chen Tian-Ning , Wang Xing-Guo
Published: November 2019

In this research, a novel phononic crystal (PC) is investigated theoretically to enhance acoustic pressure confinement. It consists of multiple nested resonators based on a tapered configuration. Nested phononic crystal resonator (NPCR) can enhance the acoustic pressure amplification at resonant cavity to a great degree better than the traditional one with same dimensions. The resonant frequency of NPCR is mainly located within outermost phononic crystal resonator’s (PCR) band gap. Meanwhile, it does not move significantly to high frequency with the addition of inner tapered resonators. The enhanced acoustic pressure resonant amplification is attributed to the improvement of the confinement mode owing to the nested structure working as a taper. Then effects of geometrical dimensions of inner PCRs on acoustic confinement are studied. It shows that resonant frequency and resonant acoustic pressure can be affected by the geometric parameters. NPCR has stronger acoustic confinement effects, which are conducive to improve acoustic sensing sensitivity, acoustic signal frequency resolution and acoustic energy harvesting efficiency.
PrVM
Authors: Burns Kevin , Legout Vincent , Barbalace Antonio , Ravindran Binoy
Published: November 2019

We present PrVM, a framework for scheduling real-time VMs on multicore hardware. It addresses the intersection of the following problems: probabilistic real-time scheduling, VM scheduling, and full virtualization. Though each of these problems have been studied, their intersection - motivated by the need to consolidate multiple real-time software stacks, whose applications can be defined via probabilistic timing properties, onto a single embedded platform - is empty. PrVM uses a probabilistic model and timeliness optimality criterion. PrVM schedules VMs as server-like processes, computes time budgets using probabilistic methods, and aggregates task time budgets into VM time budgets. Experimental evaluations, using simulations and a concrete implementation, confirm the framework's effectiveness for synthetic benchmarks and multimedia applications.
Comparison of file systems in RTEMS
Authors: Agarwal Udit Kumar , Ashokbhai Vara Punit , Bloom Gedare , Mauderer Christian , Sherrill Joel
Published: November 2019

Real-Time Executive for Multiprocessor Systems (RTEMS) is an open-source real-time operating system (RTOS) that is widely used in commercial and free embedded applications with notable adoption in space flight software and scientific instrument control for space science and high energy physics. RTEMS has rich support for POSIX environments and supports multiple POSIX and BSD file systems, along with some custom file systems designed specifically to meet the needs of real-time and embedded applications storage and retrieval of data. The range of file systems available in RTEMS motivates this study that investigates the salient features of each file system to help identify strengths and weaknesses with respect to application requirements and constraints. In this paper, we provide a comparison of the available RTEMS file systems and present some performance benchmarking results.
Transcriptome Analysis and Emerging Driver Identification of CD8+ T Cells in Patients with Vitiligo
Authors: Deng Qiancheng , Wei Jingchao , Zou Puyu , Xiao Yangfan , Zeng Zhuotong , Shi Yaqian , Zhan Yi , Zhang Huiming , Tang Bingsi , Zeng Qinghai , Xiao Rong
Published: November 2019

Activated CD8+ T cells play important roles in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. However, driving factors about the activation and migration of CD8+ T cells remain obscure. In this study, we aim to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and uncover potential factors that drive the disease in melanocyte-specific CD8+ T cells in vitiligo. A total of 1147 DEGs were found through transcriptome sequencing in CD8+ T cells from lesional skin of vitiligo patients and normal controls. Based on KEGG pathway enrichment analysis and PPI, 16 upregulated and 23 downregulated genes were identified. Ultimately, 3 genes were figured out after RT-qPCR verification. The mRNA and protein expression levels of PIK3CB, HIF-1α, and F2RL1 were all elevated in CD8+ T cells from peripheral blood in vitiligo. HIF-1αand PIK3CB were significantly increased in lesional skin of vitiligo. Two CpG sites of the HIF-1αpromoter were hypomethylated in vitiligo CD8+ T cells. In conclusion, HIF-1α, F2RL1, and PIK3CB may act as novel drivers for vitiligo, which are all closely associated with reactive oxygen species and possibly contribute to the activation and/or migration of melanocyte-specific CD8+ T cells in vitiligo. In addition, we uncovered a potential role for DNA hypomethylation of HIF-1αin CD8+ T cells of vitiligo.
Five-Year Follow-Up of Distal Tibia Bone and Foot and Ankle Trauma Treated with a 3D-Printed Titanium Cage
Authors: Nwankwo Eugene C. , Chen Fangyu , Nettles Dana L. , Adams Samuel B.
Published: November 2019

Large bone defects from trauma or cancer are difficult to treat. Current treatment options include the use of external fixation with bone transport, bone grafting, or amputation. These modes of therapy continue to pose challenges as they are associated with high cost, failure, and complication rates. In this study, we report a successful case of bone defect treatment using personalized 3D-printed implant. This is the longest known follow-up using a 3D-printed custom implant for this specific application. Ultimately, this report adds to existing literature as it demonstrates successful and maintained incorporation of bone into the titanium implant. The use of patient-specific 3D-printed implants adds to the available arsenal to treat complex pathologies of the foot and ankle. Moreover, the technology’s flexibility and ease of customization makes it conducive to tailor to specific patient needs.
Impact of Low- or High-Permeability Inclusion on Free Convection in a Porous Medium
Authors: Yan Min , Lu Chunhui , Yang Jie , Xie Yifan , Luo Jian
Published: November 2019

Density-driven free convection in porous media is highly affected by large-scale heterogeneity, typical of which are low- or high-permeability inclusions imbedded in homogeneous porous media. In this research, we applied the modified Elder problem to investigate the impact of low- or high-permeability inclusions on the migration of a dense, unstable salt plume. Sensitivity analyses were conducted in terms of the permeability contrast, the effective area (the area of the inclusion beneath the source zone), and the distance of the inclusion from the source zone, all of which were found to play a significant role in controlling the total mass flux released from the source into the media. Results show that (1) a high-permeability inclusion has stronger effects than low-permeability inclusion, due to significantly unbalanced solute distributions caused by accelerated solute transport, (2) the inclusion with a larger effective area has more potential to influence free convection, (3) free convection is more sensitive to the low-/high-permeability inclusion vertically closer to the source zone, and (4) free convection is more susceptible to the low-permeability inclusion horizontally closer to the source zone. For high-permeability inclusions, the inclusion horizontally closer to the source zone influences the transport process more significantly at the early stage, and conversely, the inclusion far from the source zone has a later impact. The results obtained could offer significant implications for understanding unstable density-driven flow and solute transport in porous media with structured heterogeneity.
A Mechanism Exploration of Metabolic Syndrome Causing Nodular Thyroid Disease
Authors: Li Zexin , Zhang Lili , Huang Yingshi , Yang Peixuan , Xu Wencan
Published: November 2019

Background. Metabolic syndrome (MS) and its components have been demonstrated to facilitate the prevalence of thyroid nodules (TNs). The underlying pathogenesis needs to be elucidated. Methods. A total of 2722 subjects, who underwent health checkup in our institute from December 2014 to November 2018, were retrospectively and randomly collected. After exclusion, 2068 subjects were chosen, and their anthropic and clinical data were collected. Results. After matching age, gender, uric acid (UA), and creatinine (Cr) by propensity score matching (PSM), subjects with MS had higher prevalence of TNs than those without MS, as well as higher thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and inflammatory levels, indicated by the higher white blood cell (WBC), lymphocyte (LY), and monocyte/high-density lipoprotein (Mo/HDL). After matching age, gender, UA, Cr, TSH, free triiodothyronine (FT3), thyroxine (FT4), WBC, NE, LY, Mo, NE/LY, LY/Mo, and Mo/HDL by PSM, no significant difference of the prevalence of TNs was found between MS and non-MS groups. Step logistic regression suggested glucose intolerance (GI), among all the components of MS, was an independent impact factor of TNs and was considered to contribute most to the formation of TNs. The prevalence of TNs was higher in the GI group after matching age, gender, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting blood sugar (FBS), UA, Cr, triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (CHOL), HDL, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Conclusions. Patients with MS have a higher prevalence of TNs, probably due to the elevated TSH and inflammatory levels in vivo. Among the components of MS, glucose intolerance contributes most to the development of TNs.
Gain-of-Function RHOA Mutations Promote Focal Adhesion Kinase Activation and Dependency in Diffuse Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhang Haisheng , Schaefer Antje , Wang Yichen , Hodge Richard G. , Blake Devon R. , Diehl J. Nathaniel , Papageorge Alex G. , Stachler Matthew D. , Liao Jennifer , Zhou Jin , Wu Zhong , Akarca Fahire G. , de Klerk Leonie K. , Derks Sarah , Pierobon Mariaelena , Hoadley Katherine A. , Wang Timothy C. , Church George , Wong Kwok-Kin , Petricoin Emanuel F. , Cox Adrienne D. , Lowy Douglas R. , Der Channing J. , Bass Adam J.
Published: November 2019

Diffuse gastric cancer (DGC) is a lethal malignancy lacking effective systemic therapy. Among the most provocative recent results in DGC has been that of highly recurrent missense mutations in the GTPase RHOA. The function of these mutations has remained unresolved. We demonstrate that RHOAY42C, the most common RHOA mutation in DGC, is a gain-of-function oncogenic mutant, and that expression of RHOAY42C with inactivation of the canonical tumor suppressor Cdh1 induces metastatic DGC in a mouse model. Biochemically, RHOAY42C exhibits impaired GTP hydrolysis and enhances interaction with its effector ROCK. RHOAY42C mutation and Cdh1 loss induce actin/cytoskeletal rearrangements and activity of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which activates YAP–TAZ, PI3K–AKT, and β-catenin. RHOAY42C murine models were sensitive to FAK inhibition and to combined YAP and PI3K pathway blockade. These results, coupled with sensitivity to FAK inhibition in patient-derived DGC cell lines, nominate FAK as a novel target for these cancers.

Significance:

The functional significance of recurrent RHOA mutations in DGC has remained unresolved. Through biochemical studies and mouse modeling of the hotspot RHOAY42C mutation, we establish that these mutations are activating, detail their effects upon cell signaling, and define how RHOA-mediated FAK activation imparts sensitivity to pharmacologic FAK inhibitors.

See related commentary by Benton and Chernoff, p. 182.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 161
First record of the micromoth Ethmia lineatonotella (Moore, 1867) (Lepidoptera: Depressariidae: Ethmiinae) from Bhutan
Authors: Irungbam Jatishwor Singh , Irungbam Meenakshi Jatishwor
Published: November 2019

In the present article, we report the first record of the moth, Ethmia lineatonotella (Moore, 1867) family Depressariidae, subfamily Ethmiinae from Mendrelgang village of Tsirang district, Bhutan. The species is the second known species from the family, so far only Ethmia assamensis was recorded from Bhutan.
Butterfly diversity throughout Midnapore urban area in West Bengal, India
Authors: Biswas Surjyo Jyoti , Patra Debarun , Roy Soumyajit , Giri Santosh Kumar , Pal Suman , Hossain Asif
Published: November 2019

Butterflies have always attracted attention due to their unique colourations.  As most butterflies are highly specific in their niche utilisation, abundance of the species in a locality may advocate status of ecosystem functioning and environmental health.  In recent times, different anthropogenic activities and unscientific management of nature have resulted in a decline of butterfly communities at a rapid rate.  The objective of the present study is to study butterfly diversity in and around Midnapore Town, West Bengal, India.  A total of 82 butterfly species belonging to six families were recorded during the two years of the study period.  Of the six families Nymphalidae is the most abundant family comprising 42.54% of the total population followed by Lycaenidae (22.5%), Pieridae (19.03%), Papilionidae (8.58%), Hesperiidae (7.24%), and Riodinidae (0.11%).  Different diversity indices, Lorenz curve, Whittaker plot, and Gini index show high diversity in the butterfly community structure.  As Midnapore Town is the connecting area between the plains of Bengal and Chota Nagpur Plateau, the present study may be the baseline for further ecological, environmental, and conservation studies.
New distribution records in the orchid flora of Tripura, India
Authors: Adit Arjun , Koul Monika , Tandon Rajesh
Published: November 2019

Ten species of orchids belonging to eight genera are recorded for the first time from Tripura State of India.  The taxa include Bulbophyllum affine Wall. ex Lindl., Bulbophyllum lobbii Lindl., Coelogyne suaveolens (Lindl.) Hook.f., Dendrobium tortile Lindl., Micropera pallida Lindl., Mycaranthes floribunda (D.Don) S.C.Chen & J.J.Wood, Pinalia acervata (Lindl.) Kuntze, Pinalia globulifera (Seidenf.) A.N.Rao, Thelasis khasiana Hook.f. and Trichoglottis ramosa (Lindl.) Senghas.  Geographical distribution along with detailed descriptions and photographs of the recorded species are provided.
Additional distribution records of the rare Nepal Comma Polygonia c-album agnicula (Moore, 1872) (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) from Rara National Park, Nepal
Authors: Suwal Sanej Prasad , Shrestha Biraj , Pandey Binita , Shrestha Bibek , Nepali Prithivi Lal , Rokaya Kaashi Chandra , Shrestha Bimal Raj
Published: November 2019

Nepal Comma is a rare butterfly species of Nepal. Here we provide new distributional locality range of Nepal comma Polygonia c-album agnicula Moore, 1872 from Rara. The butterfly species observed were photographed and identified in the field. Not any samples were collected.
Bone fractures in roadkill Northern Tamandua Tamandua mexicana (Mammalia: Pilosa: Myrmecophagidae) in Costa Rica
Authors: Arguedas Randall , López Elisa C. , Ovares Lizbeth
Published: November 2019

Northern Tamandua Tamandua mexicana is one of the most common roadkill species encountered on Costa Rican highways.  Ten roadkill Northern Tamanduas were collected along different roads in Costa Rica and moved to a veterinary facility where appendicular radiologic studies were undertaken.  The number of fractures present in each individual varied from zero to five (mean=2.6), with only one animal sustaining no fractures at all.  Most fractures were present in the humerus (31%), followed by the ulna and ilium (both 19%), whilst the cranial portion of the body represented the highest number of fractures (61%).  These data can contribute, not only to establishing causes of animal-road-mortalities, but also to the future understanding and decision-making of clinical actions for animals injured on the roads.
Linostoma decandrum (Roxb. ) Wall. ex Endl. (Thymelaeaceae): an addition to the flora of Andaman Islands, India
Authors: Rasingam L. , Karthigeyan K.
Published: November 2019

Linostoma decandrum (Roxb. ) Wall. ex Endl. belonging to the family Thymelaeaceae is known from Assam and Manipur states of northeast India is reported here as a new addition to the flora of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Retrospective Study Using Computed Tomography to Compare Sufficient Chest Compression Depth for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Obese Patients
Authors: Lee Heekyung , Oh Jaehoon , Lee Juncheol , Kang Hyunggoo , Lim Tae Ho , Ko Byuk Sung , Cho Yongil , Song Soon Young
Published: November 2019

Background

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between body mass index (
BMI
) and sufficient chest compression depth (CCD) in obese patients by a mathematical model.

Methods and Results

This retrospective analysis was performed with chest computed tomography images conducted between 2006 and 2018. We classified the selected individuals into underweight (<18.5), normal weight (≥18.5, <25), overweight (≥25, <30), and obese (≥30) groups according to
BMI
(kg/m
2
). We defined heart compression fraction (
HCF
) as

and estimated under‐
HCF
(the value of
HCF
<20%), and over‐
HCF
(the residual depth <2 cm after simulation with chest compression depth 5 and 6 cm). We compared these outcomes between
BMI
groups. Of 30 342 individuals, 8856 were selected and classified into 4
BMI
groups from a database. We randomly selected 100 individuals in each group and analyzed a total of 400 individuals’ cases. Higher
BMI
groups had a significantly decreased
HCF
with both 5 and 6 cm depth (
P
<0.001). The proportion of under‐
HCF
with both depths increased according to
BMI
group, whereas the proportion of over‐
HCF
decreased except for the 5 cm depth (
P
<0.001). The adjusted odds ratio of under‐
HCF
, according to
BMI
group after adjustment of age and sex, was 7.325 (95%
CI
, 3.412–15.726;
P
<0.001), with 5 cm and 10.517 (95%
CI
, 2.353–47.001;
P
=0.002) with 6 cm depth, respectively.

Conclusions

The recommended chest compression depth of 5 to 6 cm in the current international guideline is unlikely to provide sufficient ejection fraction during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in obese patients.
Regional Customary International Law Related to China’s Historic Rights in the South China Sea
Authors: Liu Chenhong
Published: November 2019

In the customary international law system, there exist general customary international law and regional customary international law. Based on the general practice and opinio juris of the States surrounding the South China Sea, China’s historic rights which conclude historic title to all the maritime features in the South China Sea, and historic fishing rights and navigational rights, are regulated by regional customary international law. Due to the parallel relationship between this regional customary international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), China’s historic rights should co-exist with the rights regulated by UNCLOS.
An annotated checklist of the Branchiopoda (Crustacea) of the Dutch Caribbean islands
Authors: SOESBERGEN MARTIN , SINKELDAM JOS
Published: November 2019

The launch of the Dutch Caribbean Species Register by Naturalis Biodiversity Center (2017)—https://www.dutchcaribbeanspecies.org/—raised the question of which branchiopods originate from this part of the Netherlands. To answer this question, surveys of literature and of the Naturalis collection were conducted. The additional samples (collected in 2003–2005 and 2008) were analyzed. We present an annotated checklist of the Branchiopoda of the Dutch Caribbean.                 The Kingdom of the Netherlands includes the Dutch mainland and six Caribbean islands. From the Caribbean part of the kingdom, an annotated list of all known species is given. Fifteen taxa and three genera have been encountered and the species are discussed. To date, six species of large branchiopods and nine species of cladocerans are known. Two more genera of cladocerans have been found. One species is endemic to Bonaire.
A review of Spathipheromyia (Diptera: Muscidae) from Argentina with the description of an extra-large new species
Authors: PATITUCCI LUCIANO DAMIÁN , OLEA MARÍA SOFÍA , MULIERI PABLO RICARDO
Published: November 2019

Spathipheromyia Bigot is a small group of predaceous muscids endemic of the Neotropical region. Currently, the genus includes 14 species of which only Spathipheromyia atra Malloch, 1934, S. magellani Malloch, 1934 and S. guttipennis (Thomson, 1869) are listed for Argentina. We present a new species Spathipheromyia goliat sp. nov. for Argentina and registered S. albiceps Malloch, 1934 for the first time for Argentina. Also we present a more detailed description of male and female terminalia of S. albiceps, S. atra, and S. guttipennis, notes on their habitat, new records, a key to species, and a discussion on structure of male terminalia.
Origin of Mosaic Structure Obtained During the Production of Porous Silicon with Electrochemical Etching
Authors: Cao Dao Tran , Anh Cao Tuan , Ngan Luong Truc Quynh
Published: November 2019

So far, while producing porous silicon (PSi) with anodic etching of silicon in an aqueous solution of hydrofluoric acid, many researchers (including us) have obtained the crack-into-pieces (or mosaic) structure. Most of the authors believed that the cause of this structure is the collapse
and the cracking of the porous, especially highly porous, silicon layer which took place during the drying of PSi after fabrication. However, our study showed that the mosaic structure was formed right during the course of silicon anodization at high anodic current density. Furthermore, our
study also showed that at high anodic current density the real silicon etching has been replaced by the growth of a silicon oxide layer. This is a layer of another substance that grows on silicon, so when the layer is too thick (which is obtained when the anodic current density is too high
and/or the anodization time is too long) it will crack, creating mosaic pieces. When the silicon oxide layer is cracked, the locations around the cracks will be etched more violently than elsewhere, creating trenches. Thus, the mosaic structure with mosaic pieces emerged between the trenches
has formed.
Perceived Control, Severity, Certainty, and Emotional Fear: Testing an Expanded Model of Deterrence
Authors: Roche Sean Patrick , Wilson Theodore , Pickett Justin T.
Published: November 2019

Objectives:

Growing evidence indicates that criminologists should incorporate emotional states, such as fear, into standard deterrence frameworks. Within the fear of crime literature, there is empirical support for the “sensitivity to risk” model, which posits perceived victimization control and severity drive certainty perceptions, and these cognitions, in turn, drive fear of crime. We apply this logic to offender decision-making.

Methods:

Using a sample of young adults ( N = 829), an anonymous online survey, and path analysis, this study investigates an expanded model of deterrence.

Results:

Perceived control over apprehension directly reduced perceptions of the certainty of being apprehended. Perceived severity was both directly and indirectly, through perceived certainty, associated with greater fear of apprehension. Fear of apprehension is negatively associated with reported criminal propensity, and the effects of cognitive judgments of control, severity, and certainty have an indirect effect on reported criminal propensity via fear of apprehension.

Conclusions:

Our findings illustrate the need to better understand the psychological and emotional aspects of deterrence. Individuals do not simply consult their preformed certainty perceptions when considering crime. Identifying all of the relevant cognitions and the emotions is critical for advancing criminological theories and improving crime policies.
Labels, Inequity, and Advocacy: The “Woman Composer” in the Wind Band World
Authors: Boeckman Jeffrey
Published: November 2019

Is it time to retire the “female composer” label? While music educators would perhaps like to think society is beyond the need for such labels, gender inequity exists in programming, publisher’s offerings, and college programs. This article considers some of the arguments advanced to explain these inequities and the social/systemic biases that consideration of this topic necessarily involves. Finally, the author suggests paths and some resources for those interested in seeking out and advocating for excellent music that happens to be composed by women.