bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental setup for bulk susceptibility effect‐minimized, multi‐orientation MRI of ex vivo tissue samples
Authors: Lee So‐Hee , Han Min‐Jun , Lee Joonyeol , Lee Seung‐Kyun
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Many conventional ex vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) setups utilize cylindrical or other nonspherical tissue containers which can cause static field (B0) inhomogeneity affecting the accuracy of the measurements in an orientation‐dependent manner. In this work we demonstrate an experimental method to obtain MRI of ex vivo tissue samples held in a spherical container in order to minimize bulk susceptibility‐induced B0 inhomogeneity in arbitrary orientations.

Methods

B0 inhomogeneity caused by tissue‐air susceptibility mismatch can be theoretically eliminated if the surface of susceptibility discontinuity is spherical. This situation can be approximated by putting a tissue sample in a spherical shell filled with materials with tissue‐like magnetic susceptibility. We achieved this on an intact monkey brain by (a) holding the brain with a three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed holder with tissue‐like (within 0.5 ppm) susceptibility, and (b) enclosing the brain and the holder in an acrylic spherical shell filled with diamagnetic liquid. Furthermore, the sphere and the radio‐frequency coil for MRI were mounted on a 3D‐printed frame designed to reduce B0 inhomogeneity contributions. The sphere could be rotated freely without disturbing the RF coil to facilitate multi‐orientation imaging. We verified our setup by mapping B0 in the monkey brain at 13 different orientations in a human 7T scanner, and measuring orientation‐dependent

relaxation rates in the white and gray matters of the brain. The results were then compared with a setup where the brain was held inside a cylindrical container.

Results

In all orientations, the B0 standard deviation in the brain in the spherical setup (converted to Larmor frequency offset) was less than about 10 Hz. This corresponds to two‐sigma deviation of B0 of <0.07 ppm. The B0 gradient was <9 Hz/mm in 95 % of the brain voxels in all orientations. In high‐resolution imaging with e.g. voxel size <0.4 mm, this corresponds to voxel line broadening of <4 Hz (0.013 ppm).

in the corpus callosum showed distinctly different orientation dependence compared to the gray matter. The B0 uniformity and

reliability were much reduced in the cylindrical container setup.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated an experimental method to effectively minimize bulk susceptibility‐induced B0 perturbation in multi‐orientation ex vivo MRI. The method promises to benefit a range of tissue orientation‐dependent MR property studies.
An 8‐element Tx/Rx array utilizing MEMS detuning combined with 6 Rx loops for 19F and 1H lung imaging at 1.5T
Authors: Maunder Adam , Rao Madhwesha , Robb Fraser , Wild Jim M.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To firstly improve the attainable image SNR of 19F and 1H C3F8 lung imaging at 1.5 tesla using an 8‐element transmit/receive (Tx/Rx) flexible vest array combined with a 6‐element Rx‐only array, and to secondly evaluate microelectromechanical systems for switching the array elements between the 2 resonant frequencies.

Methods

The Tx efficiency and homogeneity of the 8‐element array were measured and simulated for 1H imaging in a cylindrical phantom and then evaluated for in vivo 19F/1H imaging. The added improvement provided by the 6‐element Rx‐only array was quantified through simulation and measurement and compared to the ultimate SNR. It was verified through the measurement of isolation that microelectromechanical systems switches provided broadband isolation of Tx/Rx circuitry such that the 19F tuned Tx/Rx array could be effectively used for both 19F and 1H nuclei.

Results

For 1H imaging, the measured Tx efficiency/homogeneity (mean ± percent SD; ) was comparable to that simulated ( ). The 6 additional Rx‐only loops increased the mean Rx sensitivity when compared to the 8‐element array by a factor of 1.41× and 1.45× in simulation and measurement, respectively. In regions central to the thorax, the simulated SNR of the 14‐element array achieves ≥70% of the ultimate SNR when including noise from the matching circuits and preamplifiers. A measured microelectromechanical systems switching speed of 12 µs and added minimum 22 dB of isolation between Tx and Rx were sufficient for Tx/Rx switching in this application.

Conclusion

The described single‐tuned array driven at 19F and 1H, utilizing microelectromechanical systems technology, provides excellent results for 19F and 1H dual‐nuclear lung ventilation imaging.
Comparison of proximal and distal corticosteroid injections for carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Nair Pradeep Pankajakshan , Wadwekar Vaibhav , Chakkalakkoombil Sunitha Vellathussery , Narayan Sunil K. , Marusani Revanth , Murgai Aditya , Thirunavukkarasu Sibi , Krishnamoorthy Amritha , Thazhath Harichandrakumar Kottyen
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Evidence for the efficacy of distal corticosteroid injection compared with proximal injection in carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is inadequate.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, double‐blind noninferiority trial of 131 wrists with CTS. Forty milligrams of methylprednisolone was injected medial to the palmaris longus tendon 2 cm proximal to the wrist crease, or at the volar aspect, 2 to 3 cm distal to the wrist crease. Proximal & distal groups received a placebo. The primary outcome was difference in CTS Symptom Severity Scale (SSS) score at 1 month. Secondary outcome measures included the difference in SSS score at 3 months, Functional Status Scale (FSS) score at 1 and 3 months, and pain of injections.

Results

No significant differences were noted between groups in scores on the SSS and FSS. Pain was lower in the proximal group compared with the distal group.

Discussion

Corticosteroid injections for CTS distal to the wrist are not inferior to proximal injections, yet they are more painful.
Consensus statement on bladder training and bowel training
Authors: Booth Jo , Bliss Donna
Published: April 2020

Aim

This consensus statement synthesizes evidence to guide healthcare professionals on promoting consistent, cohesive and achievable bladder training for people with overactive bladder/urgency urinary incontinence and bowel training for those with urgency fecal incontinence.

Methods

The Consensus Statement on Bladder and Bowel Training was developed by a sub‐group of the International Continence Society Nursing Committee and an expert panel, who formed a virtual Consultation Group. Review of published research, expert opinion articles, policy statements, and voluntary professional group information identified existing recommendations, from which statements were formulated and organized. A modified Delphi process was used to reach consensus on each statement, involving three rounds of virtual consultation. Consultation Group members indicated agreement/disagreement with each statement. Statements, or changes, were accepted when consensus was reached, defined as agreement by 80% of the Consultation Group.

Results

No universal definition of bladder training or bowel training was found, therefore a consensus definition was developed and agreed for each. Limited high quality studies of bladder training were identified and no studies investigating the use or effectiveness of bowel training for urgency fecal incontinence in adults. Broad‐ranging evidence suggests both types of training should include four elements, personalized to individual need and situation: information and education; a prescribed voiding/evacuation regimen based on individually identified patterns of bladder or bowel functioning; progression of voiding/evacuation regimen; ongoing support and reinforcement.

Conclusions

These consensus statements will support healthcare practitioners to design and deliver consistent bladder and bowel training. Improved evidence on mechanisms and effectiveness is needed to inform practice.
TVT‐O for treatment of pure urodynamic stress urinary incontinence: Efficacy and adverse effects at 13‐years follow‐up
Authors: Serati Maurizio , Braga Andrea , Caccia Giorgio , Torella Marco , Ghezzi Fabio , Salvatore Stefano , Athanasiou Stavros
Published: April 2020

Aim

To assess the efficacy and safety of tension‐free vaginal tape‐obturator (TVT‐O) 13 years after implantation for the treatment of female pure stress urinary incontinence (SUI). This is the longest‐term evaluation available of TVT‐O outcomes.

Methods

A multicenter, prospective study was conducted in five tertiary referral centers in three countries. All consecutive women with urodynamically proven pure SUI treated by TVT‐O were included. Data regarding subjective outcomes (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form, Patient Global Impression of Improvement, and patient satisfaction scores), objective cure (stress test) rates, and adverse events were collected during follow‐up. Univariable and multivariate analyses was performed to investigate outcomes.

Results

One hundred sixty‐eight women had TVT‐O implantation. At 13 year after surgery, 150 of 157 patients (95%) declared themselves cured (P = .8). Similarly, at 10‐year evaluation, 148 of 160 patients (92%) were objectively cured. No significant deterioration of objective cure rates was observed over time (P = .1). The multivariate analysis showed that previous anti‐incontinence procedures and obesity independently predicted the subjective (odd ratio [OR]: 6.2 [95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8‐13.6]; P = .02 and OR, 1.8 [95% CI, 1.3‐3.0]; P = .03, respectively) and objective failure of TVT‐O (OR, 5.8 [95% CI, 1.6‐13.2]; P = .02 and OR, 1.6 [95% CI, 1.2‐3.2]; P = .03, respectively). We found four cases of sling exposure; all of them occurred after the 10‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

The 13‐year results of this study showed that TVT‐O is a highly effective and safe option for the treatment of SUI. We found that there is a significantly higher risk of having a sling exposure over 10 years after the procedure; however, the incidence is very low.
Tuning effective dynamical properties of periodic media by FFT‐accelerated topological optimization
Authors: Cornaggia Rémi , Bellis Cédric
Published: April 2020

This works concerns the propagation of waves in periodic media, whose microstructure is optimized to obtain specific dynamical properties (typically, to maximize the dispersion in given directions). The present study, focusing on scalar waves in two dimensions, for example, antiplane shear waves, aims at setting a generic optimization framework. The proposed optimization procedure relies on a number of mathematical and numerical tools. First, the two‐scale asymptotic homogenization method is deployed up to second‐order to provide an effective dispersive model. Simple dispersion indicators and cost functionals are then considered on the basis of this model. Then, the minimization of these functionals is performed thanks to an algorithm that relies on the concept of topological derivative to iteratively perform phase changes in the unit cell characterizing the material. Finally, fast Fourier transform‐accelerated solvers are extensively used to solve the cell problems underlying the homogenized model. To illustrate the proposed approach, the resulting procedure is applied to the design of anisotropic media with maximal dispersion in specific directions, and to the reconstruction of unknown microstructures from effective phase velocity
data.
Nurses’ perceptions of medical procedures and nursing practices for older patients with non‐cancer long‐term illness and do‐not‐attempt‐resuscitation orders: A vignette study
Authors: Higuchi Asaka , Yoshii Azusa , Takita Morihito , Tsubokura Masaharu , Fukahori Hiroki , Igarashi Rika
Published: April 2020

Aim

To elucidate influence of a do‐not‐attempt‐resuscitation (DNAR) order on nurses’ perceptions of the medical procedures and nursing practices for non‐cancer older patients.

Design

A vignette‐based questionnaire study.

Methods

A questionnaire survey asking nurses their perceptions of clinical practices for the following three vignettes was performed in a community hospital in Japan (N = 120): the control vignettes with an older patient with repeated heart failure who was living alone and the other two with either an absence of relatives or a diagnosis of dementia. We also prepared additions to each vignette describing a DNAR order.

Results

Nurses’ perception on cardiopulmonary resuscitation, defibrillation, blood tests and intravenous nutrition showed statistically significant and minimally important declines after the DNAR order compared with before for all three vignettes (p < .001). DNAR orders can influence nurses’ perceptions of clinical practices for non‐cancer older patients with chronic heart failure.
The use of a communication tool about diet at the child health centre: A cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Holmberg Fagerlund Bettina , Helseth Sølvi , Andersen Lene F. , Småstuen Milada C. , Glavin Kari
Published: April 2020

Aim

To investigate the effect of a communication tool about diet used in public health nurse consultations with parents compared with standard consultations concerning the 2‐year‐old child's diet.

Design

A cluster randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Ten municipalities were selected randomly and matched in pairs. In each pair, the control or intervention group was randomly allocated. Parents were recruited to participate from January 2015 to January 2017. In intervention clusters, a communication tool about diet was used to help the parents (N = 140) to focus on a healthy diet for their child. In the control clusters, parents (N = 110) attended standard consultations. The participants completed semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaires at baseline and end point.

Results

No effect of the intervention was seen on the child's daily intake of vegetables or saturated fat, or body mass index. Significantly fewer parents desired more information about food for toddlers in the intervention than in the control group.
Weight Regain in Formerly Obese Mice Hastens Development of Hepatic Steatosis Due to Impaired Adipose Tissue Function
Authors: Zamarron Brian F. , Porsche Cara E. , Luan Danny , Lucas Hannah R. , Mergian Taleen A. , Martinez‐Santibanez Gabriel , Cho Kae Won , DelProposto Jennifer L. , Geletka Lynn M. , Muir Lindsey A. , Singer Kanakadurga , Lumeng Carey N.
Published: April 2020

Objective

Weight regain after weight loss is common, and there is evidence to suggest negative effects on health because of weight cycling. This study sought to investigate the impact of weight regain in formerly obese mice on adipose tissue architecture and stromal cell function.

Methods

A diet‐switch model was employed for obesity induction, weight loss, and weight regain in mice. Flow cytometry quantified adipose tissue leukocytes in adipose tissue. Liver and adipose tissue depots were compared to determine tissue‐specific effects of weight cycling.

Results

Epididymal white adipose tissue of formerly obese mice failed to expand in response to repeat exposure to high‐fat diet and retained elevated numbers of macrophages and T cells. Weight regain was associated with disproportionally elevated liver mass, hepatic triglyceride content, serum insulin concentration, and serum transaminase concentration. These effects occurred despite an extended 6‐month weight loss cycle and they demonstrate that formerly obese mice maintain durable alterations in their physiological response to weight regain. Conditioned media from epididymal adipose tissue of formerly obese mice inhibited adipogenesis of 3T3‐L1 preadipocytes, suggesting a potential mechanism to explain failed epididymal adipose tissue expansion during weight regain.

Conclusions

Metabolic abnormalities related to defects in adipose tissue expansion and ongoing dysfunction manifest in formerly obese mice during weight regain.
Socio‐Economic and political empowerment through self help groups intervention: A study from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Gupta Shipra , Rathore Hitendra Singh
Published: April 2020

The paper presents a study on the socio‐economic, and political empowerment of rural women, through the Self Help Groups (SHGs) in Bilaspur Division, Chhattisgarh, India. The various factors involved as empowerment indicators were individually discussed based on the data collected from the women SHG members (by random sampling). The detailed data analysis of individual factors and their impact on aforesaid empowerment have been discussed. Its level of significance has been evaluated using Chi‐Square Test and P‐value using statistical data analysis software tool SPSS. Subsequently, the degree of empowerment and the ranking of the factors, its contribution to all three dimensions of empowerment have been evaluated using the Garret Ranking Method. It is found from the study that, there is significant empowerment in all three dimensions. It is also estimated from the Garret Ranking Method, that women after associating with SHG were found economically empowered most significantly, then the socially and politically. The work will be useful for the policymakers to frame the policy and enhance the degree of women empowerment for the selected area of the study as well as other rural areas.
Stimuli‐responsive zein‐based nanoparticles as a potential carrier for ellipticine: Synthesis, release, and in vitro delivery
Authors: Pourhossein Atefeh , Rafizadeh Mehdi , Chen Pu
Published: April 2020

In the present research, we have investigated a drug delivery system based on the pH‐responsive behaviors of zein colloidal nanoparticles coated with sodium caseinate (SC) and poly ethylene imine (PEI). These systematically designed nanoparticles were used as nanocarriers for encapsulation of ellipticine (EPT), as an anticancer drug. SC and PEI coatings were applied through electrostatic adsorption, leading to the increased size and improved polydispersity index of nanoparticles as well as sustained release of drug. Physicochemical characteristics such as hydrodynamic diameter, size distribution, zeta potential and morphology of nanoparticles prepared using different formulations and conditions were also determined. Based on the results, EPT was encapsulated into the prepared nanoparticles with a high drug loading capacity (5.06%) and encapsulation efficiency (94.8%) under optimal conditions. in vitro experiments demonstrated that the release of EPT from zein‐based nanoparticles was pH sensitive. When the pH level decreased from 7.4 to 5.5, the rate of drug release was considerably enhanced. The mechanism of pH‐responsive complexation in the drug encapsulation and release processes was extensively investigated. The pH‐dependent electrostatic interactions and drug state were hypothesized to affect the release profiles. Compared to the EPT‐loaded zein/PEI nanoparticles, the EPT‐loaded zein/SC nanoparticles exhibited a better drug sustained‐release profile, with a smaller initial burst release and longer release period. According to the results of in vitro cytotoxicity experiments, drug‐free nanoparticles were associated with a negligible cytotoxicity, whereas the EPT‐loaded nanoparticles displayed a high toxicity for the cancer cell line, A549. Our findings indicate that these pH‐sensitive protein‐based nanoparticles can be used as novel nanotherapeutic tools and potential antineoplastic drug carriers for cancer chemotherapy with controlled release.
Integration of mass spectral fingerprinting analysis with precursor ion (MS1) quantification for the characterisation of botanical extracts: application to extracts of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban
Authors: Alcazar Magana Armando , Wright Kirsten , Vaswani Ashish , Caruso Maya , Reed Ralph L. , Bailey Conner F. , Nguyen Thuan , Gray Nora E. , Soumyanath Amala , Quinn Joseph , Stevens Jan F. , Maier Claudia S.
Published: April 2020

Introduction

The phytochemical composition of plant material governs the bioactivity and potential health benefits as well as the outcomes and reproducibility of laboratory studies and clinical trials.

Objective

The objective of this work was to develop an efficient method for the in‐depth characterisation of plant extracts and quantification of marker compounds that can be potentially used for subsequent product integrity studies. Centella asiatica (L.) Urb., an Ayurvedic herb with potential applications in enhancing mental health and cognitive function, was used as a case study.

Methods

A quadrupole time‐of‐flight analyser in conjunction with an optimised high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) separation was used for in‐depth untargeted fingerprinting and post‐acquisition precursor ion quantification to determine levels of distinct phytochemicals in various C. asiatica extracts.

Results

We demonstrate the utility of this workflow for the characterisation of extracts of C. asiatica. This integrated workflow allowed the identification or tentative identification of 117 compounds, chemically interconnected based on Tanimoto chemical similarity, and the accurate quantification of 24 phytochemicals commonly found in C. asiatica extracts.

Conclusion

We report a phytochemical analysis method combining liquid chromatography, high resolution mass spectral data acquisition, and post‐acquisition interrogation that allows chemical fingerprints of botanicals to be obtained in conjunction with accurate quantification of distinct phytochemicals. The variability in the composition of specialised metabolites across different C. asiatica accessions was substantial, demonstrating that detailed characterisation of plant extracts is a prerequisite for reproducible use in laboratory studies, clinical trials and safe consumption. The methodological approach is generally applicable to other botanical products.
A Comparison of Functional Outcomes between Patients Admitted to Inpatient Rehabilitation after Initial Diagnosis Versus Recurrence of Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Reilly Julia M. , Gundersen Alexandra I. , Silver Julie K. , Tan Can Ozan , Knowlton Sasha E.
Published: April 2020

Background

Prior studies of inpatient rehabilitation of patients with brain tumor demonstrate similar functional gains as compared to other rehabilitation populations. There are few studies specifically examining the rehabilitation of patients with glioblastoma.

Objective

To compare functional outcomes between matched patients admitted to acute inpatient rehabilitation after initial diagnosis of glioblastoma (iGBM) and after diagnosis of recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM).

Design

A retrospective, case‐matched study using descriptive statistics compared demographic information and functional outcomes as designated by the Functional Independence Measure (FIM) score.

Setting

A single, freestanding inpatient rehabilitation hospital.

Patients

Over a 20‐month period, 25 patients with iGBM were matched with 25 patients admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation facility with rGBM by the following criteria: (1) side of lesion (left/right hemisphere), (2) admission total FIM score within 10 points, (3) age within 10 years, and (4) gender. Nineteen of the 25 patients in each group were matched meeting all criteria, and 6 of the 25 patients were matched meeting three out of four criteria.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

The primary outcome measures were differences in functional outcomes as measured by FIM scores.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences (P < .05) between the groups in mean admission FIM scores, discharge FIM scores, FIM gains, and FIM efficiencies. There were no statistically significant differences in the development of complications during acute rehabilitation and transfer rate to acute care hospital. Sixty‐four percent of patients in both groups were able to be discharged home.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated no statistically significant differences in functional outcomes between matched patients admitted with iGBM compared to rGBM. Further studies are indicated to examine the rehabilitation outcomes of patients with rGBM in inpatient rehabilitation.
Comparison of Physical Therapy and Physician Pathways for Employees with Recent Onset Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ojha Heidi A. , Fritz Julie M. , Malitsky Alyson L. , Wu Jingwei , Weiner Mark G. , Brandi Jason A. , Rhon Daniel I. , Mobo Ben H. P. , Fleming Kristin M. , Beidleman Rebecca R. , Wright W. Geoffrey
Published: April 2020

Background

Life expectancy of the U.S. population will continue to rise, increasing the workforce demands in the treatment of musculoskeletal pathologies. With a declining primary care physician workforce, physical therapists (PT) may be in a unique situation to help absorb this demand.

Objective

Our primary objective was to compare physical function between two primary care groups, a “physical therapy‐led pathway” versus “physician‐led pathway” in the management of recent‐onset musculoskeletal pain at 1‐month follow‐up. Our secondary objectives were to compare other patient‐important outcomes between the groups at 1 month and health utilization at 1 month and 1 year.

Methods

A pragmatic randomized controlled trial with a 1‐year follow‐up was conducted, enrolling 150 university employees with recent onset musculoskeletal pain. Participants were randomized at first contact to either a PT‐led pathway or physician‐led pathway. The primary outcome was change in Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) ShortForm v1‐Physical Function 10a at 1 month; groups were compared with repeated measurement of analysis of variance and chi‐square for both primary and secondary outcomes, except for satisfaction score at 1 month, which was cross‐sectionally compared by independent two‐sample t‐test. At 1 year, healthcare utilization was assessed through medical record extraction, and healthcare utilization was converted to total episodic standard cost. Utilization was compared between groups using chi‐square and Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests.

Results

Both groups demonstrated improvement at 1‐month follow‐up but showed no significant between‐group difference in mean PROMIS scores at 1 month (PT‐led pathway vs physician‐led pathway, 2.04, [95% CI ‐0.28 to 4.36]; P = .082). At 1 year, there was no difference in healthcare utilization or cost between groups. No harm or misdiagnosis was found, filed, or reported by participants at 1 year.

Conclusion

This study shows equivalence in outcomes for two low‐cost musculoskeletal care pathways with no risk of harm. These results reinforce other findings in the literature that support PTs as safe and effective initial providers for individuals with musculoskeletal disorders.
Patients' perceived barriers to discussing sexual health with breast cancer healthcare providers
Authors: Zimmaro Lauren A. , Lepore Stephen J. , Beach Mary Catherine , Reese Jennifer B.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

We characterized barriers reported by women with breast cancer (BC) regarding clinical discussions of sexual health, clustered women by their endorsement of these barriers, and compared these groups.

Methods

BC outpatients (N = 144; M age = 56, 67% White) in a sexual health communication intervention study provided baseline data. Exploratory factor analysis characterized sexual health communication barriers on a standardized measure. Hierarchical cluster analysis detected patient groups with similar response patterns on these factors. ANOVAs, Chi‐Square and Fisher's Exact tests compared groups on socio‐demographic/medical factors, sexual health communication self‐efficacy and outcome expectancies, general clinical self‐efficacy, sexual concerns, emotional distress, and discussion about sexual health with an oncology provider.

Results

Two factors emerged: patients' own beliefs about or perceived inability to discuss sexual health (self‐centered barriers), and patients' perceptions of providers' reactions to discussing sexual health (provider‐centered barriers); self‐centered barriers were endorsed more than provider‐centered (P < .001). Three clusters emerged: women who endorsed (a) high self‐centered and high provider‐centered (n = 19; 13%), (b) high self‐centered and low provider‐centered (n = 95; 66%), and (c) low self‐centered and low provider‐centered (n = 30; 21%). Women endorsing more barriers reported lower sexual communication self‐efficacy, outcome expectancies, and general clinical self‐efficacy (P's ≤ .001); no differences in sexual concerns, emotional distress, or discussing sexual health were found.

Conclusions

Women more strongly endorsed self‐centered barriers than provider‐centered. When grouped according to these barriers, women differed in their confidence and expectations for sexual health communication, regardless of degree of sexual or emotional distress. Interventions are needed to improve both patients' and providers' skills for discussing sexual health.
Depression and associated factors among parents of children diagnosed with cancer at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Helina , Gebreyohannis Gebretensaye Tigistu , Cherie Amsale
Published: April 2020

Background

The global cancer burden is estimated to have risen to 18.1 million new cases and 9.6 million deaths in 2018. The period of child's diagnosis negatively influences parents socially and psychologically leading to depression.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of depression, its associated factors and parent's experience towards care of their cancer diagnosed child.

Methods

A mixed approach quantitative and qualitative cross‐sectional study was employed between 15 March and 1 April 2017. Systematic random sampling involving 275 participants in the quantitative and 20 conveniently selected participants for qualitative study were included in the study. Beck's depression inventory scale was used to collect data. Logistic regression including bivariate and multivariate analysis considering 95% confidence interval (CI) was utilized to examine association between dependent and independent variables. P‐value <.05 was considered statistically significant. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data.

Results

The prevalence of depression among parents was 72.4%, with depression levels of: borderline 7.3%, moderate 6.2%, severe 6.5%, and extreme severe depression 3.3%. Single parenting, income, history of depression, and support source were associated with parental depression (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 6.21; 95% CI: 2.66‐14.52), (AOR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.02‐0.86), (AOR = 8; 95% CI: 1.7‐37.4), (AOR = 38; 95% CI: 2.6‐560), respectively.

Conclusion

Family income, single parenting, and support sources are determinant factors for parental depression in this study. Nurses should early detect parents at risk and give due attention to reduce the risk of depression.
Being a mother after a cancer diagnosis during pregnancy: Maternal psychosocial functioning and child cognitive development and behavior
Authors: Betchen Melanie , Grunberg Victoria A. , Gringlas Marcy , Cardonick Elyce
Published: April 2020

Objective

Up to 51.5% of women diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy experience trauma (eg, intrusive thoughts, avoidance) and 20% report anxiety. Maternal anxiety can negatively affect child behavior among the noncancer population. This study aims to elucidate relationships between maternal distress, parenting style, and child behavior and development among women with cancer during pregnancy.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study of child cognitive, language and motor development analyze child behavior in the context of maternal psychosocial well‐being after a cancer diagnosis during pregnancy. A subset of women (N = 69) enrolled in the Cancer and Pregnancy Registry, had children undergo developmental testing. The majority underwent Bayley Scales III (children 6‐42 months of age; 0‐3.5 years) to assess language, cognitive, and motor performance. Women completed the Basic Symptom Inventory, Impact of Events Scale, Parent Behavior Checklist, and Child Behavioral Checklist. Maternal and child assessments were performed concurrently.

Results

Sixty‐nine women and 71 children (2 sets of twins) ages 6 months to 12 years participated. Maternal depressive and somatic symptoms were associated with more externalizing behaviors. Among younger children (0‐3.5 years), maternal somatic symptoms were associated with poorer language performance. Moderation analysis showed that mothers with fewer somatic symptoms and utilization of less discipline had children with less externalizing behaviors and higher language scores (ie, stronger verbal ability).

Conclusions

Given the interplay of psychosocial factors on child behavior and development, findings highlight the importance of early screening and psychosocial intervention and support for mothers diagnosed with cancer in pregnancy.
Sexual health in colon cancer patients: A systematic review
Authors: Stulz Alexandra , Lamore Kristopher , Montalescot Lucile , Favez Nicolas , Flahault Cécile
Published: April 2020

Objective

Despite the impact that diagnosis and treatment can have on patients' sexual health, very little research has been conducted on the impact of colon cancer on sexual health. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in colon cancer and describe the sociodemographic, clinical, and psychological correlates of sexual dysfunction.

Methods

Four electronic databases (PsycINFO, PubMed, AcademicSearchPremier, Cochrane Library) were searched for studies reporting sexual adjustment outcomes for colorectal cancer patients from January 1990 to July 2019.

Results

Of the 380 articles screened, 14 were included in this review. Sexual function is affected by colon cancer: patients' sexual satisfaction decreases significantly, as does the frequency of sexual intercourse. There is an increase in sexual problems (desire, excitement, or pleasure disorders). Male gender, advanced age, distress, and the comorbidities increase sexual disorders. In addition, it appears that partner distress negatively affects patients' sexual health. Taking such difficulties into account appears key for these patients and their partners. They could benefit from better care throughout treatment and in remission.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review highlight the importance of taking an interest in the sexual health of patients with colon cancer.
Agreement and reliability of a symptom modification test cluster for patients with subacromial pain syndrome
Authors: Riley Sean P. , Grimes Jason K. , Apeldoorn Adri T. , de Vet Riekie
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To identify if a plausible theoretical construct exists for a test cluster in a group of patients with subacromial pain syndrome presenting with glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD); determine the intertester agreement and reliability of the proposed test cluster; determine if there are any meaningful relationships between the test cluster and the component tests for the entire sample; and determine if there are any differences in disability on the Dutch version of the shoulder pain and disability index between participants with a positive and negative test cluster.

Methods

This study is a retrospective secondary analysis of data that were collected to determine the interrater agreement and reliability of clinical tests for assessment of patients with shoulder pain in primary care.

Results

The test cluster total agreement and negative specific agreement was 87.8 and 90.4%, respectively. The prevalence‐adjusted bias‐adjusted kappa for the test cluster was substantial at 0.76. There were statistically significant meaningful relationships (≥0.50) between GIRD and the test cluster for Tester A (Phi = 0.71, p < .01) and Tester B (Phi = 0.82, p < .01). No differences in disability were identified between those with a positive and negative test cluster.

Conclusion

The test cluster described in this study may be a reliable means of identifying a subgroup of patients with subacromial pain syndrome related to GIRD. Future research should look to validate this test cluster prospectively.
A time‐dependent density functional study on optical response in all‐inorganic lead‐halide perovskite nanostructures
Authors: Zhang Bofeng , Zhang Hong , Lin Jiahe , Cheng Xinlu
Published: April 2020

Recently, all‐inorganic perovskite nanostructures have become a hot research topic due to their unique optical response and novel properties. Here, we theoretically study the optical response in Cs2PbX4 and CsPb2X5 (X = Cl, Br, and I) nanostructures. First, to study the ground state, we calculate the band structures of the periodic system using the HSE06 method, which shows that all those periodic perovskites possess the direct band gaps, with distribution from 2.225 to 3.536 eV. Their valence band maximum are mainly contributed from both halogen and lead atoms, while the conduction band minimum are mainly contributed from lead atoms. Then, we study the excited state using the time‐dependent density functional theory method and find that, with the increase of halogen atom radius, the photogenerated carrier concentrations in perovskite nanostructures become larger, while the surface plasmon resonance becomes localized rather than long‐range. Moreover, through the analysis of photocurrent and local field enhancement, Cs2PbX4 and CsPb2X5 nanostructures exhibit nearly 40 μA photocurrent along the direction of optical polarization. Besides, by regulating the different anions, we predict that field enhancement in Cs2PbI4 and CsPb2I5 share a much stronger distribution at both the center and border parts of Pb‐I planes due to localized plasmon resonance, while other perovskites are distributed at the edge parts of Pb‐I planes, caused by long‐range plasmon resonance. Our research shows that all‐inorganic perovskite nanostructures are great candidate materials for developing optoelectronic devices working in high‐frequency and high‐energy regions and improving their application in sensitive detection and sensors.
Hiding in Plain Sight: Conceptualizing the Creeping Crisis
Authors: Boin Arjen , Ekengren Magnus , Rhinard Mark
Published: April 2020

The COVID‐19 crisis is a stark reminder that modern society is vulnerable to a special species of trouble: the creeping crisis. The creeping crisis poses a deep challenge to both academics and practitioners. In the crisis literature, it remains ill‐defined and understudied. It is even harder to manage. As a threat, it carries a potential for societal disruption—but that potential is not fully understood. An accumulation of these creeping crises can erode public trust in institutions. This paper proposes a definition of a creeping crisis, formulates research questions, and identifies the most relevant theoretical approaches. It provides the building blocks for the systematic study of creeping crises.
Two cancer stem cell-targeted therapies in clinical trials as viewed from the standpoint of the cancer stem cell model
Authors: Caras Ingrid W.
Published: April 2020

A key implication of the cancer stem cell model is that for a cancer therapy to be curative, it is imperative to eliminate the cancer stem cells (CSCs) that drive tumor progression. The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine is supporting two novel approaches that target CSCs, one an antibody-mediated immunotherapy targeting CD47 and the other an antibody targeting ROR1. This article summarizes the evidence that CSCs are targeted and discusses the results of early clinical trials within the context of the CSC model.

Significance statement The premise and predictions of the cancer stem cell model of cancer are being tested in the clinic as cancer stem cell-targeted therapies enter clinical trials. This article describes two such approaches and discusses whether the initial clinical results are consistent with predictions of the model. Validation of the cancer stem cell model in humans has implications for the design of curative treatments for many human cancers.
Effects of acid etching on the structure of PtNi catalyst and total exposed active sites
Authors: Yang Bin , Zhao Yanting , Fang Liudang
Published: April 2020

The integration technology of hydrogen preparation–hydrogen storage not only can utilize hydrogen energy efficiently but also can improve the selectivity of the electrode maximally. In the present work, the structure and composition of the PtNi catalyst was characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD); and its electrochemical properties, morphology, and surface binding energy were analyzed by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear scanning voltammetry (LSV), scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy‐dispersive spectrometry (SEM‐EDS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. The effects of different acid etching treatments (e.g., etching time, etchant concentration, and etching temperature) on the structure and surface active sites were investigated by the orthogonal experiment. The experimental results reveal that after etching with 0.5 mol/L of perchloric acid for 0.5 h at 60°C, the electrode weight loss of the PtNi catalyst is mainly attributed to the large loss of Ni atoms in film layer. This results in the reduced alloy phase in film layer and the appearance of Pt characteristic diffraction peak. The relative content of Pt on the surface of the film electrode increases significantly, and the total number of active sites also increases correspondingly. The binding energy of Pt4f7/2 decreases by 0.19 eV, and the number of active sites involved in hydrogen release decreases, indicative of the reduced promotion effect of the PtNi catalyst on hydrogen release.
Deep learning for survival outcomes
Authors: Steingrimsson Jon Arni , Morrison Samantha
Published: April 2020

Deep learning is a class of machine learning algorithms that are popular for building risk prediction models. When observations are censored, the outcomes are only partially observed and standard deep learning algorithms cannot be directly applied. We develop a new class of deep learning algorithms for outcomes that are potentially censored. To account for censoring, the unobservable loss function used in the absence of censoring is replaced by a censoring unbiased transformation. The resulting class of algorithms can be used to estimate both survival probabilities and restricted mean survival. We show how the deep learning algorithms can be implemented by adapting software for uncensored data by using a form of response transformation. We provide comparisons of the proposed deep learning algorithms to existing risk prediction algorithms for predicting survival probabilities and restricted mean survival through both simulated datasets and analysis of data from breast cancer patients.
Autonomic resource provisioning for multilayer cloud applications with K‐nearest neighbor resource scaling and priority‐based resource allocation
Authors: Mazidi Arash , Golsorkhtabaramiri Mehdi , Tabari Meisam Yadollahzadeh
Published: April 2020

Providing a pool of various resources and services to customers on the Internet in exchanging money has made cloud computing as one of the most popular technologies. Management of the provided resources and services at the lowest cost and maximum profit is a crucial issue for cloud providers. Thus, cloud providers proceed to auto‐scale the computing resources according to the users' requests in order to minimize the operational costs. Therefore, the required time and costs to scale‐up and down computing resources are considered as one of the major limits of scaling which has made this issue an important challenge in cloud computing. In this paper, a new approach is proposed based on MAPE‐K loop to auto‐scale the resources for multilayered cloud applications. K‐nearest neighbor (K‐NN) algorithm is used to analyze and label virtual machines and statistical methods are used to make scaling decision. In addition, a resource allocation algorithm is proposed to allocate requests on the resources. Results of the simulation revealed that the proposed approach results in operational costs reduction, as well as improving the resource utilization, response time, and profit.
Hydrological functioning of thawing soil water in a permafrost‐influenced alpine meadow hillslope
Authors: Xiao Xiong , Zhang Fan , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Guanxing , Zeng Chen , Shi Xiaonan
Published: April 2020

The complex variation of the hydrological functioning of soil water has been widely studied using measurements of the stable isotopic composition of either the bulk soil water (BSW) collected by the cryogenic vacuum extraction method or the mobile soil water (MSW) collected by the zero‐tension soil lysimeter method. We collected samples of precipitation, BSW, MSW, and hillslope runoff in an alpine meadow hillslope influenced by permafrost to investigate the hydrological functioning of thawing soil water. The results showed that the δ2H values in BSW were generally more negative than those of the MSW, which may be a result of the depleted spring snowmelt that formed the tightly bound soil water. The relatively stable characteristics of δ2H in the MSW were related to the dynamic mixing of newly infiltrated precipitation with slightly enriched mobile water held by the low soil matrix potential. The δ2H values in the BSW showed higher temporal variations than the values in the MSW, which were mainly related to the mixing of depleted tightly bound soil water and enriched MSW in varying fractions. The MSW better represented the lateral subsurface flow (SSF, which further generated streamflow) than the BSW samples considering the relatively close stable isotopic values between the lateral SSF and the MSW in the same soil layer. The results of this study show the influences of the varying water level maintained by the underlying permafrost on the water and isotopic dynamics of both the soil water pools and streamflow.
Parameterization of a hydrologic model with geophysical data to simulate observed subsurface return flow paths
Authors: Claes Niels , Paige Ginger B. , Grana Dario , Parsekian Andrew D.
Published: April 2020

A portion of water not consumed by crops during flood irrigation can flow back across the surface or through the subsurface to adjacent surface water bodies and streams as return flow. Few studies have directly addressed subsurface processes governing return flow and the importance of structural complexity on hydrologic process representation. It is challenging to measure and model these subsurface flow paths using traditional hydrologic observations. In this study, we assess the impact of subsurface structural complexity on vadose zone flow representation in a two‐dimensional transport model by varying structural complexity derived from background geophysical data. We assessed four model structures each with three soil types of homogeneous hydrologic properties, two of which were evaluated with and without an anisotropy factor. Wetting front arrival times, derived from time‐lapse electrical resistivity measurements during flood irrigation field experiments, were used to evaluate the different representations of soil profile structures. These data indicated both vertical and lateral preferential flow in the subsurface during flood irrigation. Inclusion of anisotropy in the saturated hydraulic conductivity field improved the ability to model subsurface hydrologic behavior when flow processes shifted from uniform to heterogeneous flow, as occurs with lateral subsurface return flow under flood irrigation driven by a large pressure gradient. This reduced the need for detailed spatial discretization to represent these observed subsurface flow processes. The resulting simple three‐layer model structure was better able to model both the vertical and lateral flow processes than a more complex geospatial structure, suggesting that overinterpretation of smoothed inverted profiles could lead to misrepresentation of the subsurface structure.