bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy evaluation of personalized coaptation in neurotization for motor deficit after peripheral nerve injury: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Qian TengDa , Qian Kai , Xu TuoYe , Shi Jing , Ma Tao , Song ZeWu , Xu ChengMing , Li LiXin
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Peripheral neurotization, recently as a promising approach, has taken effect in recovering motor function after damage to a peripheral nerve root. Neural anastomosis comprised of nerve conduit and neurorrhaphy participates in the nerve reconstruction. Current literature lacks evidence supporting an individualized coaptation for rescue of locomotor loss in rat subjects with paraplegia secondary to peripheral nerve injury (PNI).

Methods

This meta‐analysis intends to qualify the specificity of gap‐specific coaptation in treating a paralyzed limb following PNI. We used a highly sensitive search strategy to identify all published studies in multiple databases up to 1 May 2019. All identified trials were systematically evaluated using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Cochrane methodology was also applied to the results of this study.

Results

Twelve studies, including 349 rat subjects, met eligibility criteria. For a medium nerve defect (0.5–3.0 cm), nerve conduit was more likely than neurorrhaphy to precipitate axon regeneration and improve motor outcome of the hemiplegic limb (OR = 3.61, 95% CI = 1.80, 7.26, p < .0003) at 3‐month follow‐up, whereas neurorrhaphy might take its place in promoting limb motor function in a small nerve gap (<0.5 cm) (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.22, 1.07, p < .007). For a small nerve defect, nerve conduit still demonstrated visible effectiveness in recovery of limb motion albeit poorer than neurorrhaphy (OR = 1.50, 95% CI = 0.92, 2.47, p < .05).

Conclusion

Selective neurotization facilitates motor regeneration after nerve transection, and advisable choice of neural coaptation can maximize functional outcome on an individual basis.
Spatial access to primary care providers and colorectal cancer‐specific survival in Cook County, Illinois
Authors: Freeman Vincent L. , Naylor Keith B. , Boylan Emma E. , Booth Benjamin J. , Pugach Oksana , Barrett Richard E. , Campbell Richard T. , McLafferty Sara L.
Published: March 2020

Background

Spatial access to primary care has been associated with late‐stage and fatal breast cancer, but less is known about its relation to outcomes of other screening‐preventable cancers such as colorectal cancer. This population‐based retrospective cohort study examined whether spatial access to primary care providers associates with colorectal cancer‐specific survival.

Methods

Approximately 26 600 incident colorectal cancers diagnosed between 2000 and 2008 in adults residing in Cook County, Illinois were identified through the state cancer registry and georeferenced to the census tract of residence at diagnosis. An enhanced two‐step floating catchment area method measured tract‐level access to primary care physicians (PCPs) in the year of diagnosis using practice locations obtained from the American Medical Association. Vital status and underlying cause of death were determined using the National Death Index. Fine‐Gray proportional subdistribution hazard models analyzed the association between tract‐level PCP access scores and colorectal cancer‐specific survival after accounting for tract‐level socioeconomic status, case demographics, tumor characteristics, and other factors.

Results

Increased tract‐level access to PCPs was associated with a lower risk of death from colorectal cancer (hazard ratio [HR], 95% confidence interval [CI]) = 0.87 [0.79, 0.96], P = .008, highest vs lowest quintile), especially among persons diagnosed with regional‐stage tumors (HR, 95% CI = 0.80 [0.69, 0.93], P = .004, highest vs lowest quintile).

Conclusions

Spatial access to primary care providers is a predictor of colorectal cancer‐specific survival in Cook County, Illinois. Future research is needed to determine which areas within the cancer care continuum are most affected by spatial accessibility to primary care such as referral for screening, accessibility of screening and diagnostic testing, referral for treatment, and access to appropriate survivorship‐related care.
Mutual regulation between butyrate and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α in epithelial cell promotes expression of tight junction proteins
Authors: Yin Jiuheng , Zhou Chao , Yang Kunqiu , Ren Yanbei , Qiu Yuan , Xu Pengyuan , Xiao Weidong , Yang Hua
Published: March 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease is a kind of multi‐aetiological chronic disease that is driven by multidimensional factors. Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) plays an important role in anti‐inflammatory and cellular responses to hypoxia. Previous studies have found that B or T‐cell‐specific HIF‐1α knock out mice exhibit severe colonic inflammation. However, we know very little about other functions of HIF‐1α in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). In our study, HIF‐1αΔIEC mice were used to study the function of HIF‐1α in IECs. HIF‐1α was knocked down in Caco‐2 cells by transfection with a small interfering (si) RNA. Immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were used to detect the expression of zonula occluden‐1 (ZO‐1) and Occludin. The content of colon was harvested for high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis to examine the levels of butyrate in the gut. Our research found that HIF‐1α played a protective role in dextran sulphate sodium‐induced colitis, which was partly due to its regulation of tight junction (TJ) protein expression. Further study revealed that HIF‐1α mediated TJ proteins levels by moderating the content of butyrate. Moreover, we found that butyrate regulated TJ protein expression, which is dependent on HIF‐1α. These results indicated that there is a mutual regulatory mechanism between butyrate and HIF‐1α, which has an important role in the maintenance of barrier function of the gastrointestinal tract.
Reversible M−M Bonding by Alkaline Earth Metals (Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) in Graphite Intercalation Compounds
Authors: Xu Wei , Kozma Karoly , Sha Tianxiang , Wu Yi‐Jen , Nyman May , Lerner Michael M.
Published: March 2020

The alkaline earth metals (M=Mg, Ca, Sr, and Ba) exhibit a +2 oxidation state in nearly all known stable compounds, but MI dimeric complexes with M−M bonding, [M2(en)2]2+, (en=ethylenediamine) of all these metals can be stabilized within the galleries of donor‐type graphite intercalation compounds (GICs). These metals can also form GICs with more conventional metal (II) ion complexes, [M(en)2]2+. Here, the facile interconversion between dimeric‐MI and monomeric‐MII intercalates upon the addition/removal of en are reported. Thermogravimetry, powder X‐ray diffraction, and pair distribution function analysis of total scattering data support the presence of either [M2(en)2]2+ or [M(en)2]2+ guests. This phase conversion requires coupling graphene and metal redox centers, with associated reversible M−M bond formation within graphene galleries. This chemistry allows the facile isolation of unusual oxidation states, reveals M0→M2+ reaction pathways, and present new opportunities in the design of hybrid conversion/intercalation materials for applications such as charge storage.
Giant Single‐Crystal Shape Transformation with Wide Thermal Hysteresis Actuated by Synergistic Motions of Molecular Cations and Anions
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Lei , Xue Jin‐Peng , Sun Xiao‐Peng , Zhao Yan‐Xin , Wu Shu‐Qi , Yao Zi‐Shuo , Tao Jun
Published: March 2020

Manipulating the collective molecular movements to implement macroscopic mechanical response of bulk material is attractive and challenging. Here, an organic‐inorganic hybrid single crystal is synthesized, which exhibits a giant macroscopic shape transformation with a remarkable thermal hysteretic feature. The colossal anisotropic shape change, which manifests as an abrupt elongation of ca. 9 % along the crystallographic c‐axis and a concomitant contraction of ca. 9 % in a perpendicular direction, is induced by a significant reorientation of imidazolium, accompanied with a substantial configurational variation in CuBr42− complex anions. The synergistic motions of both the molecular cations and anions engender a remarkable large thermal hysteresis (>30 K) in the shape transformation of the single crystal, implying that this material may play a role in alternating memory media. Furthermore, due to the stable crystal lattice, a single crystal that demonstrates naked‐eye detectable large shape transformation was used as a thermal actuator to spontaneously control an electric circuit by temperature variation.
Potenziale und Grenzen der Sekundärrohstoffgewinnung – Ergebnisse der r4‐Begleitforschung
Authors: Loibl Antonia , Marscheider‐Weidemann Frank , Ostertag Katrin , Rosenberg Sonja , Tercero Espinoza Luis , Pfaff Matthias , Sartorius Christian
Published: March 2020

Die sozioökonomischen und ökologischen Wirkungen ausgewählter Vorhaben der BMBF‐Fördermaßnahme „r4 – Innovative Technologien für Ressourceneffizienz – Forschung zur Bereitstellung wirtschaftsstrategischer Rohstoffe” werden dargestellt. Viele, aber nicht alle Forschungsvorhaben lassen eine Verbesserung der Versorgungssituation Deutschlands erwarten. In Grenzfällen ist die Hebung der Sekundärrohstoffquellen aber unrentabel oder ökologisch unvorteilhaft. Diese Fälle erfordern eine Abwägung zwischen Versorgungssicherheit und anderen ökonomischen und ökologischen Zielen.
How to interpret right ventricular remodeling in athletes
Authors: Sanz‐de la Garza María , Carro Amelia , Caselli Stefano
Published: March 2020

Long‐lasting athletic training induces an overload on the heart that leads to structural, functional, and electrical adaptive changes known as the “athlete's heart.” The amount of this heart remodeling has been traditionally considered balanced between the left and the right heart chambers. However, during intense exercise, the right heart is exposed to a disproportional afterload and wall stress which over a long period of time could lead to more pronounced exercise‐induced changes. Highly trained athletes, especially those involved in endurance sport disciplines, can develop marked right ventricular (RV) remodeling that could raise the suspicion of an underlying RV pathology including arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM). The distinction between physiological and pathological RV remodeling is essential as ACM is a common cause of sudden cardiac death in athletes, and high‐intensity exercise training has demonstrated to accelerate its phenotypic expression and worsen its prognosis. The distinction between physiological and pathological RV remodeling is essential since ACM is a common cause of sudden cardiac death in athletes, and high‐intensity exercise training has demonstrated to accelerate the phenotypic expression and worsen the prognosis. This article outlines the physiological adaptation of the RV to acute exercise, the subsequent physiological structural and functional changes induced by athletic training and provides useful tips of how to differentiate between physiological RV remodeling and a cardiomyopathy phenotype.
How Ligand Binding Affects the Dynamical Transition Temperature in Proteins
Authors: Krah Alexander , Huber Roland G. , Bond Peter J.
Published: March 2020

The biochemical functions of proteins are activated at the protein glass transition temperature, which has been proposed to be dependent upon protein‐water interactions. However, at the molecular level it is unclear how ligand binding to well‐defined binding sites can influence this transition temperature. We thus report molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the ϵ subunit from thermophilic Bacillus PS3 in the ATP‐free and ligand‐bound states over a range of temperatures from 20 to 300 K, to study the influence of ligand association upon the transition temperature. We also measure the protein mean square displacement (MSD) in each state, which is well established as a means to quantify this dynamical temperature dependence. We find that the transition temperature is largely unaffected by ligand association, but the MSD beyond the transition temperature increases more rapidly in the ATP‐free state. Our data suggests that ligands can effectively “shield” a binding site from solvent, and hence stabilize protein domains with increasing temperature.
Antibody‐Based CAR T Cells Produced by Lentiviral Transduction
Authors: Prommersberger Sabrina , Hudecek Michael , Nerreter Thomas
Published: March 2020

One promising approach to treat hematologic malignancies is the usage of patient‐derived CAR T cells. There are continuous efforts to improve the function of these cells, to optimize their receptor, and to use them for the treatment of additional types of cancer and especially solid tumors. In this protocol, an easy and reliable approach for CAR T cell generation is described. T cells are first isolated from peripheral blood (here: leukoreduction system chambers) and afterwards activated for one day with anti‐CD3/CD28 Dynabeads. The gene transfer is performed by lentiviral transduction and gene transfer rate can be verified by flowcytometric analysis. Six days after transduction, the stimulatory Dynabeads are removed. T cells are cultured in interleukin‐2 conditioned medium for several days for expansion. There is an option to expand CAR T cells further by co‐incubation with irradiated, antigen‐expressing feeder cell lines. The CAR T cells are ready to use after 10 (without feeder cell expansion) to 24 days (with feeder cell expansion). © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol: Generation of CAR T cells by lentiviral transduction
Tillering dynamics of ‘Mulato II’ brachiariagrass under continuous stocking
Authors: Silva Liliane S. , Silva Valdson J. , Yasuoka Junior I. , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Pedreira Carlos G.S.
Published: March 2020

Long‐term stand persistence is a desirable characteristic of sustainable grassland ecosystems, and tillering dynamics is an important determinant of persistence. Grazing intensity and nutrient supply affect tiller density, weight, and survival. Understanding the relationships among these factors can help optimize performance of grazed pastures. The objective of this research was to determine the effects of canopy height (10, 25, and 40 cm; maintained under mimicked continuous stocking) and N fertilization (50 and 250 kg ha−1 yr−1) on the tiller dynamics and canopy stability index (SI) of ‘Mulato II’ hybrid brachiariagrass (Brachiariaspp. syn.Urochloaspp.) during two growing seasons. Tiller population density (TPD) increased by 9% with greater N fertilization and decreased linearly from 1,130 to 900 tillers m−2as canopy height increased from 10 to 40 cm. Tiller weight (TW) increased from 0.39 to 1.46 g as canopy height increased from 10 to 40 cm, but TW decreased by 9% with a greater N rate. Tiller appearance rate increased by 30% and tiller survival rate (TSR) decreased by 13.5% as N rate increased. The TSR was greater for 25‐ and 40‐cm than for 10‐cm canopies (81, 82, and 74 tillers per 100 tillers per 30 d, respectively). The SI increased from 0.91 to 1.0 with increasing canopy height from 10 to 40 cm. Mulato II canopies followed the tiller size–density compensation mechanism, displaying phenotypic plasticity in response to canopy height, but these results suggest a 25‐cm canopy height is near optimal for continuously stocked Mulato II brachiariagrass pastures.
Effect of age and renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics and safety of trimetazidine: An open‐label multiple‐dose study
Authors: Nenchev Nencho , Skopek Jiri , Arora Deepa , Samad Abdus , Kaplan Sigal , Domahidy Mónika , de Voogd Hanka , Böhmert Stella , Ramos Rita S. , Jain Shashank
Published: March 2020

This study evaluated the effect of age and renal impairment on pharmacokinetics of trimetazidine (TMZ) in healthy elderly and renally impaired subjects and assess safety and tolerability. In this open‐label, multi‐dose study, 73 subjects were divided into six treatment groups: (1) 55–65 years; (2) 66–75 years; (3) >75 years (dosing for groups 1–3 [healthy]: B.D. for 4 days), (4) mild renally impaired (dosed B.D. for 8 days); (5) moderate renally impaired (dosed O.D. for 8 days); and (6) severe renally impaired‐no dialysis (dosed once every 48 h for 8 days). Blood and urine samples were collected and analyzed. The geometric least squares mean ratios for; Group 2 and 1 of AUC(0−τ)ss was 112.2 (90% CI; 92.0–136.8) and Cmax,ss was 109.9 (89.6–134.8), Group 3 and 1 of AUC(0−τ),ss was 140.5 (115.9–170.3) and Cmax,ss was 137.8 (112.9–168.2), Group 4 and 1 of AUC(0−τ),ss was 114.2 (90.3–144.4) and Cmax,ss was 120.8 (92.5–157.8), Group 5 and 1 of; AUC(0−τ),ss was 213.0 (153.1–296.3) and Cmax,ss was 123.3 (92.2–164.7) and Group 6 and 1 of AUC(0−τ),ss was 247.4 (197.8–309.6) and Cmax,ss was 95.6 (73.0–125.1). Significant increase in systemic exposure of TMZ was observed in subjects; over 75 year's age and renally impaired compared to healthy subjects. TMZ was safe and well‐tolerated.
Angiotensin receptor blockers as tentative SARS‐CoV‐2 therapeutics
Authors: Gurwitz David
Published: March 2020

At the time of writing this commentary (February 2020), the coronavirus COVID‐19 epidemic has already resulted in more fatalities compared with the SARS and MERS coronavirus epidemics combined. Therapeutics that may assist to contain its rapid spread and reduce its high mortality rates are urgently needed. Developing vaccines against the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus may take many months. Moreover, vaccines based on viral‐encoded peptides may not be effective against future coronavirus epidemics, as virus mutations could make them futile. Indeed, new Influenza virus strains emerge every year, requiring new immunizations. A tentative suggestion based on existing therapeutics, which would likely be resistant to new coronavirus mutations, is to use available angiotensin receptor 1 (AT1R) blockers, such as losartan, as therapeutics for reducing the aggressiveness and mortality from SARS‐CoV‐2 virus infections. This idea is based on observations that the angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) very likely serves as the binding site for SARS‐CoV‐2, the strain implicated in the current COVID‐19 epidemic, similarly to strain SARS‐CoV implicated in the 2002–2003 SARS epidemic. This commentary elaborates on the idea of considering AT1R blockers as tentative treatment for SARS‐CoV‐2 infections, and proposes a research direction based on datamining of clinical patient records for assessing its feasibility.
Insulin resistance is associated with impaired olfactory function in adult patients with type 1 diabetes: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Falkowski Bogusz , Duda‐Sobczak Anna , Araszkiewicz Aleksandra , Chudzinski Maciej , Urbas Magdalena , Gajewska Ewa , Borucki Lukasz , Zozulinska‐Ziolkiewicz Dorota
Published: March 2020

Aim

To investigate whether insulin resistance is a predictor for decreased olfactory function in adult type 1 diabetes patients (T1DM).

Materials and Methods

The following parameters were examined in the group of 113 T1DM participants: body mass index (BMI), waist‐hip ratio (WHR), TG/HDL ratio, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), visceral fat (VF) in body bioimpedance, specific calculators (eGDR, VAI). Bilateral olfactory test score (BOTS) was performed using 12‐odour‐tests from Sniffin' Sticks. Then participants were allocated to one of two groups: normosmia (10‐12 odours identified) or hyposmia/anosmia (0‐9 odours). The association between BOTS and insulin resistance indicators was analyzed using: Spearman's rank correlation, multivariate linear regression analysis, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

49.6% participants were diagnosed with hyposmia/anosmia, median BOTS was 10. BOTS correlated significantly with: WHR, TG, VF index, TG/HDL ratio, VAI, and eGDR. In multivariate linear regression analysis higher WHR turned out to be statistically significant independent predictor of lower BOTS (β = −0.36;P =.005) after adjustment for age, sex, TG and peripheral neuropathy (R2= 0.19;P= .0005). The ROC analysis indicated a WHR cut‐off of 0.92 [area under the ROC curve (AUC): 0.737; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.647‐0.828,P < .0001] as the best among evaluated factors significantly affecting hyposmia/anosmia occurrence (sensitivity of this cut‐off 0.50 and specificity 0.86).

Conclusions

We have provided evidence of an association between lowered insulin sensitivity expressed in bioelectrical impedance analysis, anthropometrical (WHR), laboratory (TG/HDL ratio) measurements, specific calculators (eGDR, VAI) and deteriorated olfactory function.
Habitat modeling of Irrawaddy dolphins (Orcaella brevirostris) in the Eastern Gulf of Thailand
Authors: Jackson‐Ricketts Justine , Junchompoo Chalatip , Hines Ellen M. , Hazen Elliott L. , Ponnampalam Louisa S. , Ilangakoon Anoukchika , Monanunsap Somchai
Published: March 2020

Aim

The Irrawaddy dolphin (Orcaella brevirostris) is an endangered cetacean found throughout Southeast Asia. The main threat to this species is human encroachment, led by entanglement in fishing gear. Information on this data‐poor species’ ecology and habitat use is needed to effectively inform spatial management.

Location

We investigated the habitat of a previously unstudied group of Irrawaddy dolphins in the eastern Gulf of Thailand, between the villages of Laem Klat and Khlong Yai, in Trat Province. This location is important as government groups plan to establish a marine protected area.

Methods

We carried out boat‐based visual line transect surveys with concurrent oceanographic measurements and used hurdle models to evaluate this species’ patterns of habitat use in this area.

Results

Depth most strongly predicted dolphin presence, while temperature was a strong predictor of group size. The highest probability of dolphin presence occurred at around 10.0 m with an optimal depth range of 7.50 to 13.05 m. The greatest number of dolphins was predicted at 24.93°C with an optimal range between 24.93 and 25.31°C. Dolphins are most likely to occur in two primary locations, one large region in the center of the study area (11o54′18′′N to 11o59′23′′N) and a smaller region in the south (11o47′28′′N to 11o49′59′′N). Protections for this population will likely have the greatest chance of success in these two areas.

Main Conclusions

The results of this work can inform management strategies within the immediate study area by highlighting areas of high habitat use that should be considered for marine spatial planning measures, such as the creation of marine protected areas. Species distribution models for this species in Thailand can also assist conservation planning in other parts of the species’ range by expanding our understanding of habitat preferences.
A Highly Efficient Monophosphine Ligand for Parts per Million Levels Pd‐Catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling of (Hetero)Aryl Chlorides
Authors: Choy Pui Ying , Yuen On Ying , Leung Man Pan , Chow Wing Kin , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: March 2020

A new indolylphosphine WK‐phos has been synthesized for Pd‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of (hetero)aryl chlorides with (alkyl)arylboronic acids. Comprising this newly developed ligand with palladium(II) acetate, the resulting catalyst system was found to be highly effective in facilitating the reaction even when the catalyst loading reaches parts per million levels (e.g. 10 ppm). These examples represent one of the lowest catalyst loadings reported to date of employing monophosphine (e.g. Ar‐PCy2) for Suzuki–Miyaura reactions. The ligand geometry has also been well‐characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray crystallography.
Advantage of Fractional Calculus Based Hybrid‐Theoretical‐Computational‐Experimental Approach for Alternating Current Voltammetry
Authors: Guin Saurav K. , Ambolikar Arvind S. , Das Shantanu , Poswal Ashwini K.
Published: March 2020

The dynamic electrochemical behavior of electroactive species is believed to be represented better by the fractional calculus, because it can consider the history of mass‐transfers of that species near the electrode surface. The elucidation of mathematical fundamentals of fractional calculus has been recently introduced for batteries, supercapacitors and a few voltammetry studies. The working equations for faradaic fundamental and second‐harmonic (SHac) components of alternating current (ac) for ac voltammetry of an electrochemically reversible redox reaction on an electrode of macroscopic diameter have been derived here by using generalized formulae of the fractional calculus. A computation code is written in Python language with a matrix based algorithm developed based on latest, accurate, efficient and stable Grunwald‐Letnikov‐Improved fractional‐order differentiation equation. That computational code is used to find the concealed faradaic fundamental, SHac components of the total current and other double‐layer parameters of experimentally recorded voltammograms of ruthenium(III/II) redox reaction on gold‐disc electrode by a common electrochemical workstation without having inbuilt Fourier transformation features. The amplitude of the computed faradaic current concealed in the experimental data gets enhanced through this hybrid theoretical‐computational‐experimental approach and thus it keeps scope of application and further improvement in electroanalysis.
Using wind run to predict sand drift
Authors: Baas Andreas C.W. , Jackson Derek W.T. , Delgado‐Fernandez Irene , Lynch Kevin , Cooper J. Andrew G.
Published: March 2020

Conventional aeolian sand transport models relate mass transport rate to wind speed or shear velocity, usually expressed and empirically tested on a 1‐s time scale. Projections of total sand delivery over long time scales based on these models are highly sensitive to any small bias arising from statistical fitting on empirical data. We analysed time series of wind speed and sand transport rate collected at 14 independent measurement stations on a beach during a prior field experiment. The results show that relating total sand drift to cumulative above‐threshold wind run yields models which are more statistically robust when fitted on empirical data, generating smaller prediction errors when projected to longer time scales. Testing of different power exponents indicates that a linear relationship between sand drift and above‐threshold wind run yields the best results. These findings inspire a speculative novel phenomenological model relating the mass flow of air in the boundary layer to the mass transport of sand over the surface. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fog computing‐based privacy preserving data aggregation protocols
Authors: Yildirim Okay Feyza , Ozdemir Suat , Xiao Yang
Published: March 2020

As the number of active Internet of Things (IoT) devices increases, managing and securing the enormous amount of data generated by these devices become harder. With their always‐connected smart meters and internet‐enabled electrical appliances, smart grids (SGs) are major data generation sources in IoT. Traditional SGs store and process their collected data in centralized cloud servers. Secure data aggregation (SDA) protocols play an essential role in efficient and private data collection and storage in cloud‐based SGs. Due to a high number of connected devices, centralized cloud‐based SGs may become inadequate to satisfy the processing and storage needs of the collected data. This article introduces two efficient and lightweight SDA protocols for fog computing‐based SGs (FCSG), namely, FCSG‐DF and FCSG‐P, as a complementary solution for processing and storage needs of cloud‐based SGs. By leveraging the distributed nature and other extended capabilities of fog computing, the proposed SDA protocols have a better response time with less computational overhead. Moreover, the privacy of fine‐grained energy consumption data is preserved with the help of the privacy‐preserving data aggregation processes in the hierarchical fog computing structure of FCSG. Extensive performance evaluation results demonstrate that the proposed protocols have superiority in terms of data transmission and storage efficiency compared to cloud‐assisted schemes without data aggregation. Both protocols are analyzed by comparing their success in transmission and storage efficiencies. Moreover, privacy analysis verifies that both protocols effectively ensure the privacy of the data in each layer.
Effect of straw returning on soil organic carbon in rice–wheat rotation system: A review
Authors: Jin Zhaoqiang , Shah Tariq , Zhang Li , Liu Hongyan , Peng Shaobing , Nie Lixiao
Published: March 2020

The rice–wheat rotation model of crop planting is widely used globally, and worldwide, straw returning is the main method of crop straw treatment. However, the straw return method commonly used in the modern rice–wheat rotation system has many adverse effects on the levels and improvement of soil fertility and crop yield, and there is no systematic theory of rice and wheat straw returning to use as a guide. In this paper, we concluded that: in the rice–wheat rotation system, returning 1,500–4,500 kg/ha of rice straw and 2,250–6,750 kg/ha of wheat straw to the field helps increase the organic carbon content and quality of the soil and promotes high annual yields; conventional mixing of straw into the field can increase the organic carbon content of the soil in a short time; long‐term use of concentrated ditch‐buried straw return has obvious advantages over other straw returning methods in increasing the accumulation of soil organic carbon; the combination of little or no tillage plus straw returning helps increase the content and quality of organic carbon in soil; and when the soil water content is 15%–22.5%, it is the most conducive to the accumulation of soil organic carbon. In addition, we also provide relevant suggestions for future research directions on straw returning via systematic analyses and thought processes.
Optimization of pulsed electric field conditions for sugar extraction from carrots
Authors: Dastangoo Samere , Hamed Mosavian Mohammad Taghi , Yeganehzad Samira
Published: March 2020

Physical destruction and thermal treatment are pretreatment methods used to destroy cell membranes and facilitate the release of solute extraction. In this paper, sugar extraction from carrots under different pulsed electric field conditions (field strengths of 250, 750, and 1,250 V/cm, pulse numbers of 10, 45, and 80, and pulse frequency of 1 Hz) and simultaneous thermal treatments (at 20, 45, and 70°C) were studied based on full factorial design experiments with 27 runs. Carrot slices treated with PEF were suspended in water at the desired temperature and liquid‐to‐solid weight ratio of L/S = 2. Immediately after the PEF treatment, a significant increase in solute extraction was observed due to the permeability of cell membrane that could lead to the enhancement of solute convection on the surface of the tissue. Optimum extraction parameters were obtained as follows: PEF with the field intensity of 750 V/cm, 10 pulses, and temperature of 45°C.
The effect of oil price shocks on asset markets: Evidence from oil inventory news
Authors: Alquist Ron , Ellwanger Reinhard , Jin Jianjian
Published: March 2020

We quantify the reaction of U.S. equity, bond futures, and exchange rate returns to oil price shocks driven by oil inventory news. Across most sectors, equity prices decrease in response to higher oil prices before the 2007/2008 crisis but increase after it. Positive oil price shocks cause a depreciation of the U.S. dollar against a broad range of currencies but have only a modest effect on bond futures returns. The evidence suggests that changes in risk premia help to explain the time‐varying effect of oil price shocks on U.S. equity returns.
Old crop versus new crop prices: Explaining the correlation
Authors: Arroyo Marioli Francisco
Published: March 2020

Although competitive storage theory has proven successful in explaining many patterns for commodity prices, some features are not understood. While standard models predict low correlation between future prices with delivery dates before and after the harvest, the data suggest otherwise. To correct this, I assume that harvests appear continuously rather than at a single moment. This addition to the standard model allows me to link preharvest and postharvest markets to the same source of supply, and hence obtain the empirically observed high correlation. Empirical evidence also suggests that my assumptions are realistic. Results are robust to different parameter specifications.
Elevation of intracranial pressure affects the relationship between hemoglobin concentration and neuronal activation in human somatosensory cortex
Authors: Thranitz Julia , Knauth Martin , Heldmann Marcus , Küchler Jan , Münte Thomas F. , Royl Georg
Published: March 2020

During neuronal activation, a local decrease of deoxygenated hemoglobin concentration (deoxy‐Hb) occurs which is the basis of functional brain imaging with blood oxygenation level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging (BOLD‐fMRI). Elevated intracranial pressure (eICP) has been shown to impair functional deoxy‐Hb changes. This study investigated this effect and its relation to the underlying neuronal activity in the human primary somatosensory cortex (SI). Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) during somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP) monitoring was performed on 75 subjects during conditions of median nerve stimulation (MNS) and resting state, combined with normal breathing (NB) and eICP by escalating breathing maneuvers (breath holding [BH], Valsalva maneuver with 15 mmHg [V15] and 35 mmHg expiratory pressure [V35]). During NB, fNIRS revealed a typical oxygenated hemoglobin concentration (oxy‐Hb) increase with deoxy‐Hb decrease during MNS enabling SI brain mapping. Breathing maneuvers associated eICP produced a known global change of oxy‐Hb and deoxy‐Hb with and without MNS. When subtracting measurements during resting state from measurements during MNS, neither functional oxy‐Hb nor deoxy‐Hb changes could be recovered while SEPs remained unchanged. In conclusion, Valsalva‐induced eICP prevents oxy‐Hb and deoxy‐Hb changes during neuronal activation in SI. This finding raises questions on the validity of oxy‐Hb‐ and deoxy‐Hb‐based brain imaging (e.g., BOLD‐fMRI) during eICP.
Influence of preoperative radiotherapy on head and neck free‐flap reconstruction: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mijiti Ainiwaer , Kuerbantayi Nazuke , Zhang Zhi Q. , Su Ming Y. , Zhang Xiao H. , Huojia Muhetaer
Published: March 2020

The effect of preoperative external radiotherapy (XRT) on head and neck free‐flap reconstruction is still controversial. In this study, we aimed to determine the impact of preoperative XRT on the outcomes of head and neck microvascular free‐flap reconstruction. A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted in concordance with the Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses protocol. We searched several databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) to find published papers on the topic. The R program was used for data synthesis and statistical heterogeneity evaluation; then, fixed effect or random effect models were used. A total of 37 studies, involving 12 408 patients with 12 668 flaps, were included in this meta‐analysis. The overall flap success rate for all studies was 94.4%. Pooled analysis showed that patients with preoperative XRT were significantly associated with an increased risk of total flap failure (odds ratio [OR] = 1.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.45‐2.23, P < .001), partial flap failure (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.07‐3.38, P = .029), and postoperative complication rates (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.64‐2.72, P < .001). Our study suggests that preoperative XRT is associated with an increased risk of developing free‐flap failure and an increased postoperative complication rate.
Multispectral Imaging Enables Characterization of Intrahepatic Macrophages in Patients With Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Saldarriaga Omar A. , Freiberg Benjamin , Krishnan Santhoshi , Rao Arvind , Burks Jared , Booth Adam L. , Dye Bradley , Utay Netanya , Ferguson Monique , Akil Abdellah , Yi Minkyung , Beretta Laura , Stevenson Heather L.
Published: March 2020

Intrahepatic macrophages influence the composition of the microenvironment, host immune response to liver injury, and development of fibrosis. Compared with stellate cells, the role of macrophages in the development of fibrosis remains unclear. Multispectral imaging allows detection of multiple markers in situ in human formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue. This cutting‐edge technology is ideal for analyzing human liver tissues, as it allows spectral unmixing of fluorophore signals, subtraction of auto‐fluorescence, and preservation of hepatic architecture. We analyzed five different antibodies commonly observed on macrophage populations (CD68, MAC387, CD163, CD14, and CD16). After optimization of the monoplex stains and development of a Spectral Library, we combined all of the antibodies into a multiplex protocol and used them to stain biopsies collected from representative patients with chronic liver diseases, including chronic hepatitis C, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis. Various imaging modalities were tested, including cell phenotyping, tissue segmentation, t‐distributed stochastic neighbor embedding plots, and phenotype matrices that facilitated comparison and visualization of the identified macrophage and other cellular profiles. We then tested the feasibility of this platform to analyze numerous regions of interest from liver biopsies with multiple patients per group, using batch analysis algorithms. Five populations showed significant differences between patients positive for hepatitis C virus with advanced fibrosis when compared with controls. Three of these were significantly increased in patients with advanced fibrosis when compared to controls, and these included CD163+CD16+, CD68+, and CD68+MAC387+. Conclusion: Spectral imaging microscopy is a powerful tool that enables in situ analysis of macrophages and other cells in human liver biopsies and may lead to more personalized therapeutic approaches in the future.
Understanding genetic learning needs of people affected by rare disease
Authors: Quinn Laura , Davis Kendall , Yee Ashley , Snyder Holly
Published: March 2020

Nearly 350 million people worldwide are affected by a rare disease (RD) and ~80% of RDs have a genetic type, underscoring the need for access to reliable genomics education. Patient assistance in resource development can help ensure content is appropriate. The aim of this study was to define the needs and practical usage of the RD community to inform the scope and content of an online genetic course targeted toward the entire RD ecosystem. A high‐level online survey (OS) was disseminated to 586 RD patients and family members/caregivers. A total of 251 individuals responded to the OS. Eight respondents were invited to participate in a follow‐up focus group (FG). Nearly 87% of OS respondents have made efforts previously to learn more about genetics and 95.6% indicated a current interest in genetic education. Navigating healthcare systems, information sharing, and advocacy support were driving factors for this desire. Respondents indicated difficulty finding information on gene function, genetic testing, disease pathogenesis, and scientific advances. FG outcomes dove deeper into psychological needs including reducing emotional burden, alleviating fear of the unknown and seeking hope. Research identified high levels of interest in genetic education across all stages of the RD journey. Key themes identified in this study may help guide genetic counselors as they create their own patient and family‐facing content.
The development and implementation of a postfall template to improve the content of provider documentation related to falls in the hospital setting
Authors: Schmitz Leah M. , Hakos Peter , Kirsch Mary , Palmer Joann , Poltorek Beth , Stives Cynthia J.
Published: March 2020

Patient falls are the focus of many hospital prevention and continuous improvement initiatives. This is due to the potential negative impact on patient quality and safety outcomes, cost of care, and litigation risk. The published literature includes an abundance of information regarding fall‐prevention programs; however, there is a gap in the knowledge base pertaining to implications of what is documented by providers (physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants). There is concern that inadequate documentation may be associated with patient safety and quality issues. These include potential delays in the identification and treatment of fall‐related injuries and increased legal risk. A routine analysis of submissions to the hospital's Safety Event Reporting System identified inconsistencies in provider postfall documentation. Because of the potential impact on patient care, safety, financial, and medical‐legal implications, a project team was created to optimize the workflow and improve provider documentation as part of the comprehensive postfall program. This article describes the process of creating and implementing a postfall template to standardize and improve the content of postfall notes. The standardized template aligns with the organization's current initiatives to increase caregiver awareness of the impact of patient falls, and to improve patient safety and quality of care.
The use of modified keystone flap in periarticular or large superficial tumor resection surgery
Authors: Fang Shuo , Li Yingli , Tang Weiya , Zhu Weiye , Zhuang Wei , Xing Xin , Yang Chao
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

The keystone design perforator island flap (KDPIF) is often used to cover defects in reliable blood supply and similar skin patterns, but its mobility is limited, especially when the wound is large or occurs around joints. Here, we describe a modified KDPIF, boat‐shaped flap. We added a V shape along the lateral arc, forming a V‐Y flap on KDPIF's outer arc shapes like a sail. This paper also describes a clinical study to evaluate this method.

Method

From September 2014 to March 2017, 31 patients were operated on using the boat‐shaped flap in our department and were followed up annually with clinical evaluation. The wound locations included joints (n = 11), trunk (n = 18), and face (n = 2). Fifteen defects were ≥5 × 5 cm2.

Results

After 6 to 24 months of follow‐up, 29 patients had first‐intention healing and were satisfied with the morphology and function. Secondary healing was observed in two patients, and the wounds were closed after dressing treatment for 2 weeks.

Conclusion

The boat‐shaped flap enhances the mobility and achieves strong resistance to tension. The modified curvilinear shape prevents the joint activity from being restricted, with visually concealed scars. It is particularly applicable for repairing large wounds and defects around joints.
The dark side of the sharing economy: Balancing value co‐creation and value co‐destruction
Authors: Buhalis Dimitrios , Andreu Luisa , Gnoth Juergen
Published: March 2020

The sharing economy disrupts the marketplace and brings both benefits and disadvantages into service ecosystems. We discuss principles of the S‐D logic and transformative service research and explore the processes of value co‐creation and co‐destruction of well‐being within the ecosystem of the accommodation sharing economy. Following a brief period of euphoria, the dark side of the sharing economy emerges, defined as the socially, environmentally, or economically undesirable effects introduced by the sharing economy. Airbnb introduced new realities for visitors, neighborhoods, the accommodation industry, and city councils, whereby some stakeholders are frequently found to maximize their own value at the expense of others. Value co‐destruction prevails often due to uncontrolled and rapid expansion. We seek to promote a more balanced process, and the optimization of value co‐creation, while seeking to prevent value co‐destruction. Using a literature review, netnography, and a case study, we investigate co‐creation and co‐destruction, as expressed by different stakeholders, and focus on the socio‐psychological implications in the use of sharing platforms that affect the well‐being of individuals and community. A conceptual framework is proposed to manage future research addressing well‐being, value co‐creation and co‐destruction in complex ecosystem service networks.
A two‐grid method for characteristic expanded mixed finite element solution of miscible displacement problem
Authors: Hu Hanzhang , Chen Yanping
Published: March 2020

A combined method consisting of mixed finite element method (MFEM) for the pressure equation and expanded mixed finite element method with characteristics(CEMFEM) for the concentration equation is presented to solve the coupled system of incompressible miscible displacement problem. To solve the resulting nonlinear system of equations efficiently, the two‐grid algorithm relegates all of the Newton‐like iterations to grids much coarser than the original one, with no loss in order of accuracy. It is shown that coarse space can be extremely coarse and our algorithm achieve asymptotically optimal approximation when the mesh sizes satisfy . Numerical experiment is provided to confirm our theoretical results.
Farming along desire lines: Collective action and food systems adaptation to climate change
Authors: Soubry Bernard , Sherren Kate , Thornton Thomas F.
Published: March 2020

We examine collective action in the food system of the Canadian Maritimes to determine its effect on the resilience and adaptive capacity of food producers, distributors, retailers and governance institutions.

Our data suggest that beyond their immediate benefits for their participants, expressions of collective action generate higher‐level impacts which often translate into drivers of adaptive capacity.

Drawing on a metaphor from urban design, we suggest that collective action should be considered a desire line for food systems adaptation: rather than building adaptation strategies based on top‐down design, collective action emerges from farmers’ needs and capacities to build financial resilience, enhance human and social capital and strengthen institutional agency within the system.
High effects of smoke suppression and char formation of NiMo/Mg(OH)2 for polypropylene
Authors: Zhu Xingkun , Pang Hongchang , Zheng Nan , Tian Peng , Ning Guiling
Published: March 2020

The NiMo/Mg(OH)2 (NMM) hybrid as an efficient flame retardancy and smoke suppression composite for polypropylene (PP) was synthesized through NiMo co‐precipitation on the surface of Mg(OH)2 (MH) hexagonal nanosheets. Compared to PP/MH, PP/NMM exhibited excellent smoke suppressing and flame retardancy on the heat release rate, total heat release, smoke production rate, total smoke production, CO production rate and total CO production with the same loading. The reduced hazard of PP/NMM was mainly attributed to the high physical barrier effect of compact char residues on heat, smoke and combustible gas. The mechanism study indicated that multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) generated from the catalytic carbonization of PP by the NiMo compound could play the role of “rebar” to strengthen the char residues, avoid the generation of cracks and form highly compact char layer. Furthermore, MgO could facilitate the production of MWCNTs through changing the pyrolysis process of PP and increasing the reaction time between pyrolysis gas and NiMo compound. Hence, the new NiMo/MH catalyst hybrid may explore the potential for solving the tough problem of the flammability and heavy smoke of the polyolefins system.
Valproic acid and olanzapine concentration
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: March 2020

Valproic acid is considered standard treatment as monotherapy or in combination with other psychotropics for manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. Drug interactions with valproic acid have been commonly reported, secondary to both its ability to inhibit drug elimination and to induction of its metabolism by concurrently administered drugs.