bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical synthesis of materials based on calcium zirconate for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC)
Authors: Vieira Bruno M. , Nadaleti Willian C. , Almeida Suelen R. , Eliker Carolina , da Silva Cava Sergio , Raubach Cristiane W. , de Sousa Vania C.
Published: May 2019

Fuel cells allow the production of energy from a clean electrochemical reaction. Among various types, the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) operates at high temperatures, allowing the conversion of hydrogen fuel into electricity, where water is generated as a by‐product. Strontium‐doped lanthanum manganite (La1‐xSrxMnO3, LSM) is commonly used as a cathodic material in traditional high‐temperature solid oxide fuel cells. Nowadays, the operating temperature of SOFCs should be reduced to 600–800°C due to improved fine electrolyte production techniques and the use of some intermediate temperature electrolytes. The LSM is not a suitable cathode for SOFCs operating in this temperature range, since it does not have a high enough conductivity and its electrochemical activity is very low as well. In this article, the performance improvement of LSM is described by mixing with calcium zirconate. The composite ceramic materials CaZrO3−La0.6Sr0.4MnO3, CaZrO3−NiO, and CaZrO3 were synthesized by combustion method, for application as a SOFC single cell. The results prove that the synthesized materials have potential to be used in a SOFC cell. At 800°C, was confirmed the CaZrO3 formation. Through Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the analysis presented low activation energy and the materials have been demonstrated to be compatible, an important fact to construct a suitable SOFC cell. The obtained activation energy was 0.90, 0.85, and 0.51 eV for the electrolyte, the anode and the cathode, respectively.
The utility of an automated and ambulatory device for detecting and differentiating epileptic and psychogenic non‐epileptic seizures
Authors: Naganur Vaidehi D. , Kusmakar Shitanshu , Chen Zhibin , Palaniswami Marimuthu S. , Kwan Patrick , O'Brien Terence J.
Published: May 2019

Objective

Accurate differentiation between epileptic seizures (ES) and psychogenic non‐epileptic seizures (PNES) can be challenging based on history alone. Inpatient video EEG monitoring (VEM) is often needed for a definitive diagnosis. However, VEM is highly resource intensive, is of limited availability, and cannot be undertaken over long periods. Previous research has shown that time‐frequency analysis of accelerometer data could be utilized to differentiate between ES and PNES. Using a seizure detection and classification algorithm, we sought to examine the diagnostic utility of an automated analysis with an ambulatory accelerometer.

Methods

A wrist‐worn device was used to collect accelerometer data from patients during VEM admission, for diagnostic evaluation of convulsive seizures. An automated process, that involved the use of K‐means clustering and support vector machines, was used to detect and classify each seizure as ES or PNES. The results were compared with VEM diagnoses determined by epileptologists blinded to the accelerometer data.

Results

Twenty‐four convulsive seizures, consisting of at least 20 seconds of sustained continuous activity, recorded from 11 patients during inpatient VEM (13 PNES from five patients and 11 ES from six patients) were included for analysis. The automated system detected all convulsive seizures (ES, PNES) from >661 hours of recording with 67 false alarms (2.4 per 24 hours). The sensitivity and specificity for classifying ES from PNES were 72.7% and 100%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values for classifying PNES were 81.3% and 100%, respectively. There was no significant difference between the classification results obtained from the automation process and the VEM diagnoses.

Significance

This automated system can potentially provide a wearable out‐of‐hospital seizure diagnostic monitoring system.
A semantic data lake framework for autonomous fault management in SDN environments
Authors: Benayas Fernando , Carrera Álvaro , García‐Amado Manuel , Iglesias Carlos A.
Published: May 2019

Fault Management is a vital issue for any network operator since the beginning of the telecommunications era. As networks have become more and more complex, their management systems are crucial for any operator company. In this ecosystem, the Software‐Defined Networking (SDN) approach has appeared as a possible solution for different networking issues. The flexibility provided by SDN to the network management enables a great dynamism in the configuration of network devices. However, this feature introduces the cost of a potential increase in failures because every modification introduced on the control plane is a new possibility for failures to appear and cause a decrement of the quality for offered services. Because of the growing pace of the networks, the classical approach is not feasible to cope that dynamism. Increasing the number of human operators in charge of the fault management process would increase the operation cost dramatically. Thus, this paper presents an approach to apply machine learning over a big data framework for an autonomous fault management process in SDN networks. In this paper, we present a Semantic Data Lake framework for a self‐diagnosis service, which is deployed on top of an SDN management platform. Moreover, we have developed a prototype of the proposed service with different diagnosis models for SDN networks. Models and algorithms have been evaluated showing good results.
Resource allocation in PD‐NOMA–based mobile edge computing system: Multiuser and multitask priority
Authors: Paymard Pouria , Mokari Nader
Published: May 2019

Mobile edge computing (MEC) is a new network architecture concept that enables cloud computing capabilities at the edge of the cellular network, and hence, MEC has the ability to process the computation tasks in close proximity to the network edge. In this paper, we consider a multiuser MEC system with multiple computation tasks such that each computation task is independent with different priorities. For this purpose, we devise a novel multiuser, multitask, and nonpreemptive priority M/G/1 queuing model in the MEC server environment. In doing so, we propose a priority‐based task scheduling policy that aims to maximize the profit of mobile network operator by jointly optimizing service rate, transmit power, and subcarrier allocation with satisfying power and delay constraints. This is necessary to handle the physical channel opportunities to obtain higher spectral efficiency in the proposed task offloading scheme. In this line, we also consider power‐domain nonorthogonal multiple access (PD‐NOMA) technique. Numerical results show that, by using the Priority queuing in PD‐NOMA‐SCA and Priority queuing in PD‐NOMA‐matching schemes, the performance can be improved considerably compared to No‐priority queuing in OMA‐SCA and No‐priority queuing in OMA‐matching, eg, the Priority queuing in PD‐NOMA‐SCA scheme improves nearly 54% compared to the No‐priority queuing in OMA‐SCA scheme. It is noteworthy that the performance gap between exhaustive search and the Priority queuing in PD‐NOMA‐SCA scheme is nearly 7%.
Lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions: techno‐economic analysis of biomass conversion to biofuels and value‐added chemicals
Authors: Sharma Anita , Jakhete Akshay , Sharma Abhishek , Joshi Jyeshtharaj B. , Pareek Vishnu
Published: May 2019

It is important for researchers to look at alternative fuels to reduce dependence on fossil fuels as a primary source of energy, to protect the environment, and to reduce greenhouse‐gas emissions. An alternative fuel has to be environment friendly and economically viable, both in terms of production and suitability for the modern world. Fuel derived from biomass has long been viewed as a potential replacement. First‐generation biomass‐derived fuels such as bioethanol and biodiesel have already been competing with conventional fuels, assisted by legislation. This review paper assesses the feasibility of adapting and incorporating second‐generation advanced biofuel production technology for the thermochemical conversion of biomass to produce alternative fuels. The conversion technologies considered here are pyrolysis and gasification, and their potential has been examined using techno‐economic assessment (TEA). A brief overview of different business models that can be incorporated during TEA has also been discussed. Techno‐economic assessment data help in determining costs of technologies if they are employed on a commercial scale, especially in terms of per unit cost of product. The review has compiled the technical and economic data available for assessing the types and combination of processes that can assist competitiveness in the existing market. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of geochemical–mechanical impacts in geological carbon storage reservoirs
Authors: Akono Ange‐Therese , Druhan Jennifer L. , Dávila Gabriela , Tsotsis Theodore , Jessen Kristian , Fuchs Samantha , Crandall Dustin , Shi Zhuofan , Dalton Laura , Tkach Mary K. , Goodman Angela L. , Frailey Scott , Werth Charles J.
Published: May 2019

Geological carbon storage (GCS) refers to the technology of capturing man‐made carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, typically from stationary power sources, and storing such emissions in deep underground reservoirs. GCS is an approach being explored globally as a defense mechanism against climate change projections, although it is not without its critics. An important focus has been recently placed on understanding the coupling between rock–fluid geochemical alterations and mechanical changes for CO2 storage schemes in saline aquifers. This article presents a review of the current state of knowledge regarding CO2‐induced geochemical reactions in subsurface reservoirs, and their potential impact on mechanical properties and microseismic events at CO2 storage sites. This review focuses, in particular, on the current state of the art in fluid–rock interactions within the GCS context. Key issues to be addressed include geochemical reactions and the alteration of transport and mechanical properties. Specific review topics include the swelling of clays, the prediction of dissolution and precipitation reaction rates, CO2‐induced changes in porosity and permeability, constitutive models of chemo–mechanical interactions in rock, and correlations between geochemical reactions and induced seismicity. The open questions in the field are emphasized, and new research needs are highlighted. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chronic disease self‐management programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people: Factors influencing participation in an urban setting
Authors: Parmenter Joni , Basit Tabinda , Nelson Alison , Crawford Emma , Kitter Bryony
Published: May 2019

Issue addressed

Evidence suggests that participation in a Chronic Disease Self‐Management (CDSM) program improves the health of clients. Many factors are known to influence participation in these programs for the broader Australian population. However, less is known about why Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders choose to participate. This study identifies key factors that support or enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to participate in a CDSM program in an urban setting.

Methods

Twelve focus groups were undertaken with a total of 102 participants who were diagnosed with or at risk of chronic disease. These participants were recruited from the Work It Out program, a CDSM program comprising exercise and health education. The Work It Out program is specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and delivered by an Aboriginal led and community‐controlled organisation in South‐East and Central Queensland. The study received ethical clearance through the Behavioural and Social Sciences Ethical Review Committee at The University of Queensland (Approval Number 2011001283).

Results

Findings indicate that key features of program design based on a culturally responsive approach influences participation. The main features are as follows: providing easy access to the program; permitting flexibility in attendance; a group environment; the approach of program staff that prioritises relationship building; personalised and integrated care; communicating result regularly; and ensuring community ownership of the program.

Conclusion

These findings are useful to consider when designing a health program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Programs which are culturally responsive and include the design features identified in this study are more likely to increase participation amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

So What?

Increasing participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in CDSM programs using the design features identified in the paper may contribute significantly in closing the health disparity gap.
Inhibitory effects of indirubin‐3′‐monoxime against human osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhang Yi , Song Lu , Li Jiazhen , Zhang Yan , Lu Xinchang , Zhang Bin
Published: May 2019

Indirubin is widely used as the active component of “Dangui Luhui Wan” in ancient China. However, its effects against the osteosarcoma (OS), the most common primary malignancy, are still unknown. In our present study, we investigated the effects of the Indirubin‐3′‐monoxime (I3M), a derivative of indirubin with better water solubility, against the OS cells. We found I3M inhibited OS cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. Flow cytometry assays showed that I3M could not only induce OS cell apoptosis in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner but also regulate the cell cycle distribution. Additionally, we demonstrated that several Bcl‐2 family members, cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDKs) and cyclins contributed to this process. Furthermore, out data verified that I3M suppressed OS cell migration and invasion by decreasing MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 levels. Moreover, survivin and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) might play important roles in the anti‐OS effects of I3M. The administration of I3M also inhibited the OS cell growth in mice. Taken together, our results indicated the inhibitory effects of I3M against human OS and thus might be an efficient candidate for OS chemotherapy.
Resurgence as Choice: Implications for promoting durable behavior change
Authors: Greer Brian D. , Shahan Timothy A.
Published: May 2019

Resurgence is an increase in a previously suppressed behavior resulting from a worsening in reinforcement conditions for current behavior. Resurgence is often observed following successful treatment of problem behavior with differential reinforcement when reinforcement for an alternative behavior is subsequently omitted or reduced. The efficacy of differential reinforcement has long been conceptualized in terms of quantitative models of choice between concurrent operants (i.e., the matching law). Here, we provide an overview of a novel quantitative model of resurgence called Resurgence as Choice (RaC), which suggests that resurgence results from these same basic choice processes. We review the failures of the only other quantitative model of resurgence (i.e., Behavioral Momentum Theory) and discuss its shortcomings with respect to the limited range of circumstances about which it makes predictions in applied settings. Finally, we describe how RaC overcomes these shortcomings and discuss implications of the model for promoting durable behavior change.
Physical examination training for pharmacy residents in adult patient care programs: A survey of program directors
Authors: Watson Kristin , Leon Nicholas , Reed Brent N. , Levit Matthew B. , Devabhakthuni Sandeep
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To determine the type and frequency of formalized (structured education developed to meet a set of predefined goals and provide educational content and learning materials) and nonformalized physical examination (PE) training offered to pharmacy residents in adult patient care‐focused residency programs in the United States and Puerto Rico.

Methods

A survey was distributed to a random sample of 1000 postgraduate year one and two adult patient care residency program directors. Participants were queried to determine if they offered PE training and the types of training offered. Barriers to and reasons for not providing PE training were assessed. Descriptive statistics were performed.

Results

There were 122 respondents. Thirteen (10.7%) programs provide formalized PE training and six of these were postgraduate year 1 residencies (46.2%). Informal PE training resources were provided in 97/117 (82.9%) programs. The duration and scope of training programs varied. Forty‐four of 116 (37.9%) responding programs required components of the PE in one or more rotations. The most commonly cited reasons for those who have not considered a formalized training program (n = 94) were that performing a PE is not part of the residency program (56.4%), lack of perceived value (45.7%), that PE is not part of the practice of the organization (43.6%), lack of trained clinicians (35.1%), lack of awareness that this type of training is available (35.1%), and lack of time in the schedule (31.9%) (respondents were able to select more than one).

Conclusion

Many pharmacy organizations endorse PE, yet formalized PE training does not appear to be routinely offered in adult patient care‐focused residency programs. Reasons for not offering a formalized training program suggest that raising awareness of the benefits of pharmacists learning PE is warranted. As pharmacists seek provider status, the need to increase PE training in pharmacy residency programs may be necessary.
Ex vivo quantitative analysis of human corneal stroma dehydration by near‐infrared absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Qi Pengfei , Sun Lu , Ma Jiaonan , Yao Jiali , Lin Lie , Zhang Lin , Wang Yan , Liu Weiwei
Published: May 2019

Corneal water content and hydrodynamics are critical indicators of eye health. In this work, a convenient method based on near‐infrared absorption spectroscopy (NIRA) was presented to measure the relative water content of the corneal stroma ex vivo, which paves the way to measure corneal water content in vivo. The relative water content of fresh corneal stroma during dehydration under natural conditions (temperature, 25.8 ± 0.3°C; humidity, 7.2% ± 0.9%) was monitored in real time, and the characteristic time τ when the relative water content dropped to 90% of the fresh corneal stroma was 140.1 ± 30.6 s. Furthermore, the change in the relative water content over time was found to be linear with a dehydration rate of 0.071% per second, consistent with indirect optical coherence pachymetry but with superior reproducibility and precision. Provided that the NIRA spectrometer is changed to a reflection structure from the current transmission configuration, the NIRA method proposed in this work has great potential for in vivo measurement with the advantages of non‐contact, high precision and low cost.
Novel arylpyridine‐based 1,3,4‐oxadiazoles: Synthesis, antibacterial, and anti‐inflammatory evaluation
Authors: Padejjar Vasantha Sowmya , Poojary Boja , Bistuvalli Chandrashekarappa Revanasiddappa
Published: May 2019

In view of developing novel bioactive compounds, a series of 2‐(5‐[2‐methyl‐6‐arylpyridin‐3‐yl]‐1,3,4‐oxadiazol‐2‐ylthio)‐1‐arylethanones (6a–n) were designed and synthesized in good yield. Novel compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory activities. All synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bascillus subtilis, Eschericia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Compounds 6a, 6b, 6c, 6h, and 6i displayed the highest antibacterial activity with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 6.25–12.5 μg/mL in comparison with the standard Ciprofloxacin. The results of anti‐inflammatory activity of carrageenan‐induced footpad edema assay indicated that tested compounds exhibited remarkable anti‐inflammatory activity with percentage of inhibition of 63.9–70.1% (potency 96.8–106.20% of indomethacin activity) after 3 hr. Particularly, 6c–e and 6j–l were found to be excellent inhibitors of inflammation, with potential higher than that of the standard, Indomethacin.
Evaluation of Weight Thresholds for Pediatric Patients to Use Adult Dosage of Therapeutic Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Yang Nicholas , Xu Melissa C. , Yao Zhenling
Published: May 2019

With increasing interest in enrolling adolescent patients in adult trials, a question often arises: when can pediatric patients use adult dosages? For currently approved therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with equivalent adult and pediatric indications, body weight thresholds for pediatric patients to receive adult doses vary from 30 to 75 kg. Our objective is to determine if a consistent weight threshold can be recommended for therapeutic mAbs with wide therapeutic windows. Simulations were run to predict exposure using a population pharmacokinetic model describing the typical PK characteristics of a mAb with linear elimination. Simulated steady‐state areas under the concentration‐time curves (AUCss) were compared between pediatric and adult populations. Exponent values of 0.50, 0.75, and 1.0 for the allometric relationship of weight on clearance were also evaluated. Following administration of the same fixed adult dosage in pediatric subjects above a given threshold, median AUCss in the pediatric subjects increased with decreasing weight thresholds. Pediatrics with a minimum weight of 40 kg had median AUCss within 20% to 30% above adult median AUCss when the reference adult population had a median weight ≤80 kg. Higher relative pediatric exposures were seen in lower‐weight pediatric subjects when the weight exponent on clearance was >0.75. Simulations suggested that a weight threshold of 40 kg could generally be considered for pediatric subjects to receive the adult dosage for therapeutic mAbs with linear pharmacokinetics. Weight threshold selection should be based on considerations of therapeutic index of the drug product, weight distribution of the reference adult population, and magnitude of weight effect on pharmacokinetic parameters.
Midazolam Limited Sampling Strategy With a Population Pharmacokinetic Approach to Simultaneously Estimate Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A Constitutive, Inhibition, and Induction/Activation Conditions in Healthy Adults
Authors: Yang Jincheng , Nikanjam Mina , Capparelli Edmund V. , Tsunoda Shirley M. , Greenberg Howard E. , Penzak Scott R. , Stoch S. Aubrey , Bertino Joseph S. , Nafziger Anne N. , Ma Joseph D.
Published: May 2019

We have previously described a midazolam limited sampling strategy employing a population pharmacokinetic (PK) approach to estimate constitutive cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A activity. This study evaluated expansion of this approach to estimate CYP3A constitutive, inhibitory, and induction activities. Midazolam concentrations (n = 4441) from adults (n = 152) were obtained from previous studies after single, oral, or intravenous administration with intensive sample collection. Data were fit to a 2‐compartment population PK model that incorporated CYP3A conditions as covariates for clearance (CL), volume of distribution, and bioavailability (F). Limited sampling models using single– or 2–time point concentrations were compared with full PK profiles using the empiric Bayesian post hoc estimations of midazolam area under the plasma concentration–time curve derived from the population PK model. Ketoconazole, rifampin, and pleconaril were significant covariates of CL, while ketoconazole, rifampin, and grapefruit juice were significant covariates for F. Typical midazolam CL and F estimates were 32.9 L/h and 0.31 for the constituent state, while the ratio of inducer/inhibitor for midazolam CL and CL/F for the induced/inhibited (rifampin/ketoconazole) states were 14.2 and 85.3. Upon comparison to the population PK model, the majority of evaluated single– and 2–time point limited sampling models estimated area under the plasma concentration–time curve had unacceptable r2 and/or unacceptable bias and precision. Exclusively during CYP3A inhibitory conditions, the 4‐ and 6‐hour limited sampling model had acceptable limits of r2, bias, and precision. Consequently, development of a single– or 2–time point midazolam limited sampling model for general, widespread use to simultaneously evaluate various CYP3A conditions remains elusive.
Patient perspectives on the process and outcomes of psychiatric genetic counseling: An “Empowering Encounter”
Authors: Semaka Alicia , Austin Jehannine
Published: May 2019

Genetic counseling (GC) for individuals with mental illness (MI) has been shown to improve patient outcomes, such as increased empowerment and self‐efficacy. However, we do not understand how the process of GC results in these improvements or what aspects of the process are critical. In this qualitative study, we explored the process and outcome of psychiatric GC from the patient's perspective. Ten Canadian adults with a diagnosed MI were interviewed prior to, and 1 month following, psychiatric GC. Interview transcripts were analyzed using Grounded Theory methodology and generated a theoretical framework that describes the process and outcomes of psychiatric GC from the patient's perspective. Participants described the counseling process to be an “empowering encounter” and identified specific attributes of the process and characteristics of the counselor that contributed to their empowerment. Participants gained a new perspective on the cause and management of their MI, which seemed to facilitate a deeper acceptance of their condition. Consequently, participants reported being empowered and feeling less shame, blame, and guilt; which reportedly made them more able to manage their MI and protect their mental health; and more open to talking about their condition with family and friends. This study provides a better understanding of how the process of GC influences patient outcomes and highlights features of the process that maximize patient benefit.
Anterior cervical pain syndrome: Risk factors, variations in hyolaryngeal anatomy, and treatments
Authors: Dewan Karuna , Yang Christine , Penta Mrudula
Published: May 2019

Objective

Anterior cervical pain syndromes (ACPS) are a poorly understood entity associated with lateral neck discomfort when talking, chewing, or yawning, and with occasional excruciating pain and dysphagia. This investigation aims to describe patients with ACPS presenting symptoms and treatments.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review of all patients with ACPS presenting to a tertiary care laryngology practice in 1 year.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with ACPS for 1 year were reviewed. Patient gender, age, body mass index (BMI), and pain triggers were documented. The hyolaryngeal complex was measured on computed tomography (CT) scans of the neck. Treatments were recorded.

Results

Nine patients were diagnosed with an ACPS in a 1‐year period. Sixty‐seven percent were female with an average age of 47.3 years ± 16.6. The average BMI of a patient with ACPS was 24.8 ± 3.69. The most common symptom was point tenderness at the lateral aspect of the hyoid or superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage (89%). Pain triggers included speaking (67%), head turn (56%), chewing (44%), yawning (56%), and swallowing (56%). On CT imaging, eight of nine patients had abnormalities of the hyoid bone or the superior cornu of the thyroid cartilage, correlating 100% with point tenderness location. Treatments include physical therapy (33%), steroid injection (44%), lidocaine injection (22%), and surgical intervention (56%).

Conclusion

ACPS is a frustrating condition for patients and physicians. Evaluation of anterior cervical pain with point tenderness should include imaging measurement of the thyrohyoid complex. Effective treatments include local steroid injection and surgical resection of the abnormal structure.

Level of Evidence

4

Laryngoscope, 130:702–705, 2020
Tooth defects of EEC and AEC syndrome caused by heterozygous TP63 mutations in three Chinese families and genotype‐phenotype correlation analyses of TP63‐related disorders
Authors: Zheng Jinglei , Liu Haochen , Zhan Yuan , Liu Yang , Wong Sing‐Wai , Cai Tao , Feng Hailan , Han Dong
Published: May 2019

Background

Ectrodactyly‐Ectodermal dysplasia‐Cleft lip/palate (EEC) syndrome and Ankyloblepharon‐Ectodermal defects‐Cleft lip/palate (AEC) syndrome belong to p63 syndromes, a group of rare disorders exhibiting a wide variety of clinical manifestations. TP63 mutations have been reported to be associated with both EEC and AEC.

Methods

Analysis of whole exome sequencing (WES) from patients with EEC or AEC syndrome and Sanger sequencing from family members.

Results

We confirmed that three Chinese pedigrees affected with EEC or AEC harboring a distinct TP63 mutation, and described novel clinical phenotypes of EEC and AEC, including the presence of cubitus valgus deformity and taurodontism, which were discordant to their classical disease features. We also analyzed the genotype–phenotype correlation based on our findings.

Conclusion

We reported that the cubitus valgus deformity in patients with EEC and severe taurodontism in a patient with AEC had not been mentioned previously. Our study expands the phenotypic spectrum of EEC and AEC syndrome.
The Phragemén‐Lindelöf principle of harmonic functions and conditions for nevanlinna class in the half space
Authors: Zhang Yan Hui
Published: May 2019

In this article, we firstly discuss a kind of Phragemén‐Lindelöf Principle of harmonic functions by using the Nevanlinna's representation in the high dimensional space. Secondly, we derive the sufficient conditions for subharmonic functions being in the Nevanlinna class as well. These results are main tools to study the Hilbert space of harmonic functions with analytic approaches and generalizations of some classic results.
Generalized Bernstein‐Kantorovich–type operators on a triangle
Authors: Kajla Arun
Published: May 2019

In this note, we construct generalized Bernstein‐Kantorovich–type operators on a triangle. The concern of this note is to present a Voronovskaja‐type and Grüss Voronovskaja‐type asymptotic theorems, and some estimates of the rate of approximation with the help of K‐functional, first and second order modulus of continuity. We also obtain Korovkin‐ and Voronovskaja‐type statistical approximation theorems via weighted mean matrix method. Lastly, we show that the numerical results which explain the validity of the theoretical results and the effectiveness of the constructed operators.
Deformable phantoms of the prostatic urinary tract for urodynamic investigations
Authors: Ishii Takuro , Ho Chung Kit , Nahas Hassan , Yiu Billy Y. S. , Chee Adrian J. Y. , Yu Alfred C. H.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Assessment of urethral dynamics is clinically regarded to be important in analyzing the functional impact of pathological features like urethral obstruction, albeit it is difficult to perform directly in vivo. To facilitate such an assessment, urethra phantoms may serve well as investigative tools by reconstructing urethral dynamics based on anthropomorphic factors. Here, our aim is to design a new class of anatomically realistic, deformable urethra phantoms that can simulate the geometric, mechanical, and hydrodynamic characteristics of the male prostatic urethra.

Methods

A new lost‐core tube casting protocol was devised. It first involved the drafting of urethra geometry in computer‐aided design software. Next, 3D printing was used to fabricate the urethra geometry and an outer mold. These parts were then used to cast a urinary tract using a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based material (with 26.6 ± 4.0 kPa Young's elastic modulus). After forming a surrounding tissue‐mimicking slab using an agar–gelatin mixture (with 17.4 ± 3.4 kPa Young's modulus), the completed urethra phantom was connected to a flow circuit that simulates voiding. To assess the fabricated phantoms' morphology, ultrasound imaging was performed over different planes. Also, color Doppler imaging was performed to visualize the flow profile within the urinary tract.

Results

Deformable phantoms were devised for the normal urethra and a diseased urethra with obstruction due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). During voiding, the short‐axis lumen diameter at the verumontanum of the BPH‐featured phantom (0.91 ± 0.08 mm) was significantly smaller than that for the normal phantom (2.49 ± 0.20 mm). Also, the maximum flow velocity of the BPH‐featured phantom (59.3 ± 5.8 cm/s; without Doppler angle correction) was found to be higher than that of the normal phantom (22.7 ± 9.0 cm/s).

Conclusion

The fabricated phantoms were effective in simulating urethra deformation resulting from urine passage during voiding. They can be used for mechanistic studies of urethral dynamics and for the testing of urodynamic diagnostic techniques in urology.
Advanced Optics for the Evaluation of Near‐To‐Eye Displays
Authors: Schuster Norbert , Krüger Udo , Porsch Tobias
Published: May 2019

More and more, the suppliers of near‐to‐eye displays (NED) are seeking cost‐effective imaging luminance and color measurement solutions that are adaptable to their instrument structures. Here, the authors offer a set of formulas that determine the basic parameters of imaging luminance and radiance measurement devices and lenses for different NED‐concepts.
OLEDs Expected to Gain Ground as LCD Investment Slows
Authors: Young Ross
Published: May 2019

LCDs are losing to OLEDs in two key display markets: smartphones and TVs. Ross Young, CEO of the display market research company Display Supply Chain Consultants (DSCC), examines what’s driving the shifts and where they may be taking the industry.
Refractory myasthenia gravis: Characteristics of a portuguese cohort
Authors: Santos Ernestina , Bettencourt Andreia , Duarte Sara , Gabriel Denis , Oliveira Vanessa , da Silva Ana Martins , Costa Paulo Pinho , Lopes Carlos , Gonçalves Guilherme , da Silva Berta Martins , Leite Maria Isabel
Published: May 2019

Introduction: Some myasthenia gravis (MG) patients are refractory to conventional treatments. Methods: To describe the clinical features of refractory MG (RMG) and explore the association with human leukocyte antigen HLA‐DRB1 alleles, a cohort study of 114 consecutive MG patients was performed. Patients were classified as RMG based on predefined criteria. Results: Twenty‐two patients were found to have RMG (19.3%). There were no differences between non‐RMG and RMG patients with respect to sex, age of onset, abnormal 3‐Hz repetitive nerve stimulation, anti‐acetylcholine receptor antibody positivity, thymectomy, thymoma or thymic hyperplasia, and polyautoimmunity. HLA‐DRB1*03 was more frequent in the non‐RMG vs. control population (P = 3 × 10−6). The HLA‐DRB1*13 allele was less frequent in non‐RMG patients compared with controls (P = 0.002), and less frequent in the non‐RMG group compared with the RMG group (P = 0.003). Discussion: HLA‐DRB1*03 was more common in non‐RMG, and the HLA‐DRB1*13 allele appeared to have a protective role, as reported previously in other autoimmune disorders. Muscle Nerve 60: 188–191, 2019
Optimal trajectory generation and robust flatness–based tracking control of quadrotors
Authors: Abadi Amine , El Amraoui Adnen , Mekki Hassen , Ramdani Nacim
Published: May 2019

This work proposes an optimal trajectory generation and a robust flatness–based tracking controller design to create a new performance guidance module for the quadrotor in dense indoor environments. The properties of the differential flatness, the B‐spline, and the direct collocation method are exploited to convert the constrained optimization problem into a nonlinear programming one, which can be easily resolved by a classic solver. After that, the obtained optimal reference trajectory is applied to the dynamic quadrotor model and two different flatness‐based controllers, namely, one based on feedback linearization and one based on feedforward linearization, are developed and compared to ensure the trajectory tracking despite the existence of disturbances and parametric uncertainties. Numerical simulation is executed to evaluate the proposed optimal trajectory generation approach and the robust tracking strategies. It turns out that the controller based on feedforward linearization outperforms the feedback linearization one in robustness and permits obtaining a performance guidance law for an uncertain quadrotor system.
Efficacy of proton therapy in children with high‐risk and locally recurrent neuroblastoma
Authors: Bagley Alexander F. , Grosshans David R. , Philip Nancy V. , Foster Jennifer , McAleer Mary Frances , McGovern Susan L. , Lassen‐Ramshad Yasmin , Mahajan Anita , Paulino Arnold C.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Proton therapy is currently used in the management of pediatric tumors to decrease late toxicities. However, one of the criticisms of proton therapy is the limited data regarding efficacy on disease control. The purpose of this study was to examine local and distant control rates after proton therapy for neuroblastoma.

Methods and materials

Eighteen patients with high‐risk (n = 16) and locally recurrent neuroblastoma (n = 2) were treated with curative intent and received proton therapy to the primary site and up to three post‐induction MIBG‐avid metastatic sites. Primary sites (n = 18) were treated to 21–36 Gy (relative biological effectiveness [RBE]), and metastatic sites (n = 16) were treated to 21–24 Gy (RBE). Local control and survival rates were calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

With a median follow‐up of 60.2 months, two‐ and five‐year local control rates at the irradiated primary site were 94% and 87%, respectively. No failures at irradiated distant metastatic sites were observed. The five‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) was 64%, and the five‐year overall survival (OS) was 94%. The extent of surgical resection was not associated with local control, PFS, or OS. No radiation‐related nephropathy or hepatopathy was reported.

Conclusions

Excellent local control was achieved using proton therapy to the primary and post‐induction MIBG‐positive distant sites. The predominant site of failure is progression in post‐induction non‐MIBG‐avid distant sites. Although proton therapy provides high rates of local control with acceptable toxicity for neuroblastoma, further advances in systemic therapy are needed for the improved control of systemic disease.
Lyrics only or lyrics with music? The effect of different lyric conditions on prosocial‐related outcomes
Authors: Yu Yue , Wu Di , Zhang Jian‐Xin , Fang Ping
Published: May 2019

Several studies have examined the effect of music on prosocial behavior. However, they have not been able to explain whether lyrics with music or lyrics alone influence prosocial behavior. We conducted two studies to investigate this issue. We first validated the influence of prosocial lyrics (relative to neutral lyrics) on prosocial cognition and prosocial emotion (Study 1). Next, we examined the influence of different types of lyrics on prosocial behavior (willingness to participate in unpaid experiments) among college students under different lyric conditions (Study 2). The results are partly consistent with previous findings, and further reveal that lyrics may have an effect on prosocial cognition and emotion, and that different lyric conditions have a significant influence on prosocial behavior. Overall, we used the short‐term effect of the general learning model (GLM) to verify that prosocial lyrics in music can promote prosocial behavior among college students.
Impact of antibiotic treatment duration on outcomes in older men with suspected urinary tract infection: Retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ahmed Haroon , Farewell Daniel , Francis Nick A. , Paranjothy Shantini , Butler Christopher C.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Clinical guidelines recommend at least 7 days of antibiotic treatment for older men with urinary tract infection (UTI). There may be potential benefits for patients, health services, and antimicrobial stewardship if shorter antibiotic treatment resulted in similar outcomes. We aimed to determine if treatment duration could be reduced by estimating risk of adverse outcomes according to different prescription durations.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included men aged greater than or equal to 65 years old with a suspected UTI. We compared outcomes in men prescribed 3, 5, 7, and 8 to 14 days of antibiotic treatment in a multivariable logistic regression analysis and 3 versus 7 days in a propensity‐score matched analysis. Our outcomes were reconsultation and represcription (proxy for treatment failure), hospitalisation for UTI, sepsis, or acute kidney injury (AKI), and death.

Results

Of 360 640 men aged greater than or equal to 65 years, 33 745 (9.4%) had a UTI. Compared with 7 days, men prescribed 3‐day treatment had greater odds of reconsultation and represcription (adjusted OR 1.48; 95% CI, 1.25‐1.74) but lower odds of AKI hospitalisation (adjusted OR 0.66; 95% CI, 0.45‐0.97). We estimated that treating 150 older men with 3 days instead of 7 days of antibiotics could result in four extra reconsultation and represcriptions and one less AKI hospitalisation. We estimated annual prescription cost savings at around £2.2 million.

Conclusions

Antibiotic treatment for older men with suspected UTI could be reduced to 3 days, albeit with a small increase in risk of treatment failure. A definitive randomised trial is urgently needed.
Self‐assembled polyurea macromer nanodispersion and resulting hybrid polyurea‐acrylic emulsions and films
Authors: Drake Ian , Cardoen Gregoire , Hughes Andrew , Beshah Kebede , Kearns Kenneth L. , Zhang Tianlan , Reffner John , Wolf Casey , Even Ralph
Published: May 2019

A polyurea macromer (PUM) was synthesized and dispersed in basic conditions to form self‐assembled nanoparticles (<20 nm dispersions, up to 30 wt % aq. soln.). These nanoparticles enabled surfactant‐free emulsion polymerization to form hybrid polyurea‐acrylic particles despite the absence of a measureable water‐soluble fraction. The Tg of the starting PUM material was a strong function of the PUM's extent of neutralization and hydration (varying between 100 °C and >175 °C) due to changes in hydrogen and ionic bonding. Two separate hybrid polyurea‐acrylic emulsion systems were prepared: one by direct polymerization of (meth)acrylic monomers in the presence of the nanodispersion and a second by a physical blend of PUM nanodispersion with an acrylic latex control. The direct polymerization method resulted in a hybrid emulsion particle size that developed by a mechanism resembling conventional emulsion polymerization and was unlike that described for seeded polyurethane dispersion systems. Film hardness was shown to increase with increasing coating thickness for the hybrid film prepared by direct polymerization. The resulting mechanical properties could be explained by applying mechanical models for a composite foam structure. These results were unprecedented for normal elastomer films. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1373–1388
One‐pot synthesis of organic–inorganic hybrid polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane microparticles in a double‐zone temperature controlled microfluidic reactor
Authors: Kibar Güneş , Çalışkan Umutcan , Erdem E. Yegân , Çetin Barbaros
Published: May 2019

Polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) particles are one of the smallest organosilica nano‐cage structures with high multifunctionality that show both organic and inorganic properties. Until now poly(POSS) structures have been synthesized from beginning with a methacryl‐POSS monomer in free‐radical mechanism with batch‐wise methods that use sacrificial templates or additional multisteps. This study introduces a novel one‐pot synthesis inside a continuous flow, double temperature zone microfluidic reactor where the methodology is based on dispersion polymerization. As a result, spherical monodisperse POSS microparticles were obtained and characterized to determine their morphology, surface chemical structure, and thermal behavior by SEM, FTIR, and TGA, respectively. These results were also compared and reported with the outcomes of batch‐wise synthesis. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 1396–1403
Diagnostic Potential of Transferrin Glycoforms—A Lectin‐Based Protein Microarray Approach
Authors: Penezić Ana , Križakova Martina , Miljuš Goran , Katrlik Jaroslav , Nedić Olgica
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Disease or a specific condition may cause alteration of human transferrin (hTf) glycosylation pattern. A specific analytical platform, lectin‐based protein microarray, is designed and optimized for the investigation of hTf glycans, attached to the protein core in their native form.

Experimental design

hTf molecules isolated from healthy persons of different age, diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) or colorectal carcinoma (CRC) patients are used for method validation. Reliability of the results is ensured by three criteria for the evaluation of hTf–lectin interactions: i) signal‐to‐noise ratio above 3, ii) signal intensity above 250 arbitrary units, and iii) hTf concentration ensuring high sensitivity of the assay.

Results

Six lectins, out of fourteen tested, satisfy the criteria. hTf is spotted at concentration of 50 µg mL−L. When physiological samples (isolated hTf) are analyzed, the highest potential to differentiate between population groups expresses Aleuria aurantia (AAL), Triticum vulgaris (WGA) and Phaseolus vulgaris (PHA‐E) lectins. The initial amount of hTf which can be analyzed is very low (75 pg).

Conclusion and clinical relevance

Results confirm that a very sensitive, high‐throughput lectin‐based protein microarray platform can be formulated to detect changes in hTf glycan structures which can be considered as biomarkers of ageing or a disease.
Robust stabilization of spacecraft attitude motion under magnetic control through time‐varying integral sliding mode
Authors: Sofyalı Ahmet , Jafarov Elbrous M.
Published: May 2019

Magnetic spacecraft attitude control is suitable for missions with moderate pointing and stabilization requirements. It would be especially preferable if an implemented three‐axis magnetic control law guarantees global and moreover robust stabilization. Motivated by this consideration, in this work, the integral sliding mode control method is successfully applied to the purely magnetic attitude control problem for the first time in literature. The resulting magnetic integral sliding mode control system, which is designed via Lyapunov's direct method by taking the four major environmental disturbance torques and the full inertia matrix uncertainty into account, has the expected insensitivity against environmental disturbances in the plane of continuous actuation. Along the instantaneous direction of underactuation, which continuously varies in control space as the satellite moves along the orbit, there is no counteraction to perturbations. However, as seen in the results of the high‐fidelity simulation, state trajectories are ultimately bounded in the vicinity of the reference state independently from the initial state thanks to the proven robustness of the global stability. Performance robustness of the obtained control system against disturbances and model uncertainty is evaluated to be superior through a couple of comparisons with existing control laws even though it is partial due to the intrinsic underactuation in the system.