bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and Electronic Properties of Hexagonal and Cubic Phase AlGaInN Alloys Investigated Using First Principles Calculations
Authors: Tsai Y.-C. , Bayram C.
Published: April 2019

Structural and electronic properties of hexagonal (h-) and cubic (c-) phase AlGaInN quaternary alloys are investigated using a unified and accurate local-density approximation-1/2 approach under the density-functional theory framework. Lattice bowing parameters of h- (and c-) phase AlGaN, AlInN, InGaN, and AlGaInN alloys are extracted as 0.006 (−0.007), 0.040 (−0.015), 0.014 (−0.011), and −0.082 (0.184) Å, respectively. Bandgap bowing parameters of h- (and c-) phase AlGaN, AlInN, InGaN, and AlGaInN alloys are extracted as 1.775 (0.391), 3.678 (1.464), 1.348 (1.164), and 1.236 (2.406) eV, respectively. Direct-to-indirect bandgap crossover Al mole fractions for c-phase AlGaN and AlInN alloys are determined to be 0.700 and 0.922, respectively. Under virtual crystal approximation, electron effective masses of h- and c-phase AlGaInN alloys are extracted and those of c-phase alloys are observed to be smaller than those of the h-phase alloys. Overall, c-phase AlGaInN alloys are shown to have fundamental material advantages over the h-phase alloys such as smaller bandgaps and smaller effective masses, which motivate their applications in light emitting- and laser diodes.
Study on the Lateral Carrier Diffusion and Source-Drain Series Resistance in Self-Aligned Top-Gate Coplanar InGaZnO Thin-Film Transistors
Authors: Hong Sae-Young , Kim Hee-Joong , Kim Dae-Hwan , Jeong Ha-Yun , Song Sang-Hun , Cho In-Tak , Noh Jiyong , Yun Pil Sang , Lee Seok-Woo , Park Kwon-Shik , Yoon SooYoung , Kang In Byeong , Kwon Hyuck-In
Published: April 2019

We investigated the lateral distribution of the equilibrium carrier concentration (n0) along the channel and the effects of channel length (L) on the source-drain series resistance (Rext) in the top-gate self-aligned (TG-SA) coplanar structure amorphous indium-gallium-zinc oxide (a-IGZO) thin-film transistors (TFTs). The lateral distribution ofn0across the channel was extracted using the paired gate-to-source voltage (VGS)-based transmission line method and the temperature-dependent transfer characteristics obtained from the TFTs with differentLs.n0abruptly decreased with an increase in the distance from the channel edge near the source/drain junctions; however, much smaller gradient ofn0was observed in the region near the middle of the channel. The effect ofLon theRextin the TG-SA coplanar a-IGZO TFT was investigated by applying the drain current-conductance method to the TFTs with variousLs. The increase ofRextwas clearly observed with an increase inLespecially at lowVGSs, which was possibly attributed to the enhanced carrier diffusion near the source/drain junctions due to the larger gradient of the carrier concentration in the longer channel devices. Because the lateral carrier diffusion and the relatively highRextare the critical issues in the TG-SA coplanar structure-based oxide TFTs, the results in this work are expected to be useful in further improving the electrical performance and uniformity of the TG-SA coplanar structure oxide TFTs.
Tropomyosin-receptor kinase fused gene (TFG) regulates lipid production in human sebocytes
Authors: Choi So-Ra , Hwang Yul-Lye , Kim Soo Jung , Sohn Kyung-Cheol , Choi Chong Won , Park Kyung Duck , Lee Young , Seo Young-Joon , Lee Jeung-Hoon , Hong Seung-Phil , Seo Seong Jun , Kim Seong-Jin , Kim Chang Deok
Published: April 2019

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an organelle in which important cellular events such as protein synthesis and lipid production occur. Although many lipid molecules are produced in the ER, the effect of ER-organizing proteins on lipid synthesis in sebocytes has not been completely elucidated. Tropomyosin-receptor kinase fused gene (TFG) is located in ER exit sites and participates in COPII-coated vesicle formation along with many scaffold proteins, such as Sec. 13 and Sec. 16. In this study, we investigated the putative role of TFG in lipid production in sebocytes using an immortalized human sebocyte line. During IGF-1-induced lipogenesis, the level of the TFG protein was increased in a time- and dose-dependent manner. When TFG was over-expressed using recombinant adenovirus, lipid production in sebocytes was increased along with an up-regulation of the expression of lipogenic regulators, such as PPAR-γ, SREBP-1 and SCD. Conversely, down-regulation of TFG using a microRNA (miR) decreased lipid production and the expression of lipogenic regulators. Based on these data, TFG is a novel regulator of lipid synthesis in sebocytes.
Two-dimensional electric-double-layer Esaki diode
Authors: Paletti Paolo , Yue Ruoyu , Hinkle Christopher , Fullerton-Shirey Susan K. , Seabaugh Alan
Published: April 2019

Two-dimensional van der Waals materials offer unique advantages for the development of band-to-band tunneling devices given their lack of dangling bonds, atomically flat thickness and steep band edges. Here, we present the experimental demonstration of an electric double layer (EDL) Esaki junction in synthetic WSe2 thin films. A Si-compatible process is developed for the fabrication of nanoscale FETs utilizing molecular beam epitaxy of WSe2 performed directly on top of a high-κ dielectric at back-end-of-line-friendly temperatures (<550 °C). Degenerate and abrupt doping profiles are obtained by modulating the electron/cation and hole/anion EDLs formed at the interface between a tens-of-nanometer long WSe2 channel and a solid polymer electrolyte, polyethylene oxide:cesium perchlorate (PEO:CsClO4). Numerical simulations are used to determine the bias dependence of the equilibrium ion and carrier density profiles. The EDL-doped tunnel diode exhibits repeatable, gate-tunable band-to-band tunneling with negative differential resistance in the forward bias regime at temperatures up to 140 K, and strong conduction in reverse bias. A maximum peak-to-valley current ratio of 3.5 is measured at 110 K.
The bagworm genome reveals a unique fibroin gene that provides high tensile strength
Authors: Kono Nobuaki , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Ohtoshi Rintaro , Tomita Masaru , Numata Keiji , Arakawa Kazuharu
Published: April 2019

Arthropod silk is known as a versatile tool, and its variability makes it an attractive biomaterial. Eumeta variegata is a bagworm moth (Lepidoptera, Psychidae) that uses silk throughout all life stages. Notably, the bagworm-specific uses of silk include larval development in a bag coated with silk and plant materials and the use of silk attachments to hang pupae. An understanding at the molecular level of bagworm silk, which enables such unique purposes, is an opportunity to expand the possibilities for artificial biomaterial design. However, very little is known about the bagworm fibroin gene and the mechanical properties of bagworm silk. Here, we report the bagworm genome, including a silk fibroin gene. The genome is approximately 700 Mbp in size, and the newly found fibroin gene has a unique repetitive motif. Furthermore, a mechanical property test demonstrates a phylogenetic relationship between the unique motif and tensile strength of bagworm silk.
Diethyl ether adducts of trivalent lanthanide iodides
Authors: Gompa Thaige P. , Rice Natalie T. , Russo Dominic R. , Aguirre Quintana Luis M. , Yik Brandon J. , Bacsa John , La Pierre Henry S.
Published: April 2019

The synthesis and structural characterization of molecular complexes of lanthanide iodides supported by the weak-base, diethyl ether, are reported.
The interplay between size and valence state on the antibacterial activity of sub-10 nm silver nanoparticles
Authors: Haidari Hanif , Goswami Nirmal , Bright Richard , Kopecki Zlatko , Cowin Allison J. , Garg Sanjay , Vasilev Krasimir
Published: April 2019

The interplay between size and valence state in ∼3 nm silver nanoparticles resulted in the highest antibacterial effect against multi-drug resistant bacteria.
TGase-induced intracellular aggregation of Fe3O4nanoparticles for increased retention and enhancedT2MRI
Authors: Gao Xuefeng , Liu Yang , Li Yingying , Niu Xiaoyan , Cao Jing , Li Xiaomin , Zhang Yapei , Tan Dongzhi , Wang Wei , Yuan Zhi
Published: April 2019

TGase-induced aggregation strategy was used to increase the NPs-Q&K retention in the tumor and enhance theT2MRI.
Ab initio insights into the mechanism of excited-state intramolecular proton transfer triggered by the second excited singlet state of a fluorescent dye: an anti-Kasha behavior
Authors: Yuan Huijuan , Guo Xugeng , Zhang Jinglai
Published: April 2019

An excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) reaction triggered by the second excited singlet S2 state is found by ab initio calculations to be an ultrafast process for a novel fluorophore.
Redox-responsive fluorescent AIE bioconjugate with aggregation enhanced retention features for targeted imaging reinforcement and selective suppression of cancer cells
Authors: Yang Ling , Fang Wen , Ye Yuxiao , Wang Zhengke , Hu Qiaoling , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2019

Redox-responsive fluorescent AIE bioconjugate with aggregation enhanced retention features for targeted imaging reinforcement and selective suppression of cancer cells.
Iridium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of quinazolinones
Authors: Feng Guang-Shou , Zhao Zi-Biao , Shi Lei , Zhou Yong-Gui
Published: April 2019

Herein, we reported iridium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of quinazolinones with up to 98% ee and excellent yields.
A new redox phloroglucinol additive incorporated gel polymer electrolyte for flexible symmetrical solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Le Phuoc-Anh , Nguyen Van-Truong , Yen Po-Jen , Tseng Tseung-Yuen , Wei Kung-Hwa
Published: April 2019

A novel redox gel polymer electrolyte based on redox additive, phloroglucinol, incorporated PVA–LiClO4and graphene nanosheet-based electrodes for symmetrical supercapacitors.
Pt-rare earth metal alloy/metal oxide catalysts for oxygen reduction and alcohol oxidation reactions: an overview
Authors: Peera Shaik Gouse , Lee Tae Gwan , Sahu Akhila Kumar
Published: April 2019

We summarize here recent advancements in Pt rare earth metal alloy and metal oxide catalysts for oxygen reduction and alcohol oxidation reactions.
Local controllability of reaction-diffusion systems around nonnegative stationary states
Authors: Le Balc’h Kévin
Published: April 2019

We consider an×nnonlinear reaction-diffusion system posed on a smooth bounded domain Ω of ℝN. This system models reversible chemical reactions. We act on the system throughmcontrols (1 ≤m 0. A specificity of this control system is the existence of some invariant quantities in the nonlinear dynamics that prevents controllability from happening in the whole spaceL∞(Ω)n. The proof relies on several ingredients. First, an adequate affine change of variables transforms the system into a cascade system with second order coupling terms. Secondly, we establish a new null-controllability result for the linearized system thanks to a spectral inequality for finite sums of eigenfunctions of the Neumann Laplacian operator, due to David Jerison, Gilles Lebeau and Luc Robbiano and precise observability inequalities for a family of finite dimensional systems. Thirdly, the source term method, introduced by Yuning Liu, Takéo Takahashi and Marius Tucsnak, is revisited in aL∞-context. Finally, an appropriate inverse mapping theorem in suitable spaces enables to go back to the nonlinear reaction-diffusion system.
Verfahrensanweisung für die Iod-131 Ganzkörperszintigrafie
beim differenzierten Schilddrüsenkarzinom (Version 5)
Authors: Verburg Frederik A. , Schmidt Matthias , Kreissl Michael C. , Grünwald Frank , Lassmann Michael , Hänscheid Heribert , Hohberg Melanie , Luster Markus , Dietlein Markus
Published: April 2019

Die Version 5 der Verfahrensanweisung für die Iod-131 Ganzkörperszintigrafie beim
differenzierten Schilddrüsenkarzinom ist ein Update der Version 4, publiziert
durch die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nuklearmedizin (DGN). Diese
Verfahrensanweisung beschreibt mit primärer Zielsetzung die fachgerechte
Durchführung der Ganzkörperszintigrafie nach Applikation einer diagnostischen
bzw. einer therapeutischen I-131 Aktivität. Die Verfahrensanweisung wurde von
einer repräsentativen Expertengruppe im Konsensverfahren verabschiedet. Sie
entspricht damit einer Verfahrensanweisung der ersten Stufe (S1) nach den
Kriterien der Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlichen Medizinischen
Fachgesellschaften (AWMF).
High-temperature-grown buffer layer boosts electron mobility in epitaxial La-doped BaSnO3/SrZrO3 heterostructures
Authors: Nono Tchiomo Arnaud P. , Braun Wolfgang , Doyle Bryan P. , Sigle Wilfried , van Aken Peter , Mannhart Jochen , Ngabonziza Prosper
Published: April 2019

By inserting a SrZrO3 buffer layer between the film and the substrate, we demonstrate a significant reduction of the threading dislocation density with an associated improvement of the electron mobility in La:BaSnO3 films. A room temperature mobility of 140 cm2 V−1s−1 is achieved for 25-nm-thick films without any postgrowth treatment. The density of threading dislocations is only 4.9 × 109 cm−2 for buffered films prepared on (110) TbScO3 substrates by pulsed laser deposition.
Progesterone induces the release of bull spermatozoa from oviductal epithelial cells
Authors: Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J. , Cronin S. , Donnellan E. , Fair S.
Published: April 2019

The mechanism that causes the detachment of spermatozoa from the oviductal reservoir around the time of ovulation remains to be elucidated. Because the cumulus cells of the bovine oocyte are known to secrete progesterone (P4), and P4 has been shown to act upon cation channels of spermatozoa (CatSper) in human spermatozoa, it was hypothesised that P4 could induce hyperactivation due to an influx of extracellular calcium, and this would facilitate detachment of spermatozoa from oviductal epithelial cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of action of P4 in the release of spermatozoa from bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). Initial dose–response assessments on sperm hyperactivation determined the optimum concentration of P4 (10 nM), mibefradil (a non-specific Ca2+ channel antagonist; 5µM), NNC 55-0396 dihydrochloride (NNC; a CatSper antagonist; 2µM), mifepristone (a classical and membrane P4 receptor antagonist; 400nM) and AG205 (a membrane P4 receptor antagonist; 10μM). BOEC explants were incubated with frozen–thawed bovine spermatozoa for 30min, following which loosely bound spermatozoa were removed. Two experiments were completed. In Experiment 1, BOECs were treated for 30min with either no treatment, P4, NNC, mibefradil, P4+mibefradil, P4+NNC, P4+mibefradil+NNC or P4+EGTA. In Experiment 2, BOECs were treated for 30min with either no treatment, P4, mifepristone, AG205, mifepristone+AG205, P4+mifepristone, P4+AG205 or P4+mifepristone+AG205. The number of spermatozoa remaining bound per millimetre squared of BOEC explant was determined. Progesterone stimulated the release of bound spermatozoa from BOEC explants, whereas NNC, mibefradil and EGTA inhibited this release. The release of spermatozoa by P4 was inhibited in the presence of both mifepristone and AG205, whereas the combination of both had the greatest inhibitory action on P4 release of spermatozoa. These findings suggest the presence of a P4 membrane receptor on bovine spermatozoa and that P4-induced release of spermatozoa from BOECs is likely mediated by extracellular Ca2+.
An assessment of climate change impacts on glacier mass balance and geometry in the Chandra Basin, Western Himalaya for the 21st century
Authors: Tawde Sayli Atul , Kulkarni Anil V , Bala Govindasamy
Published: April 2019

The Himalayan glaciers are a major source of Perennial River systems in South Asia and the retreat of these glaciers under climate change could directly affect millions of people who depend on them. In this study, we assess the glacier mass balance, area and volume changes at basin scale for the Chandra Basin in the western Himalaya due to projected climate change in the 21st century. The Chandra basin occupies ∼2440 km2 of area and hosts ∼200 glaciers and 23 small villages. The multi-model projections used in this study indicate a temperature increase of 2.2 °C–2.9 °C and 4.3 °C–6 °C for the RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios by the end of the century with a steady or decreasing trend in snowfall in the basin. In response to the projected climate, the basin is likely to retain only 50%–52% (RCP 4.5) and 40%–45% (RCP 8.5) of the areal extent of glaciers by the end of the century. Corresponding volumes of glacier water retained are much lower at 40%–43% and 29%–34%, but the volume loss could be as high as 97% for low altitude glaciers. Overall, our study highlights the likely severe impacts to water resources in the Himalaya if CO2 emissions follow the high-emission scenario of RCP8.5.
GuLF DREAM: A Model to Estimate Dermal Exposure Among Oil Spill Response and Clean-up Workers
Authors: Gorman Ng Melanie , Cherrie John W , Sleeuwenhoek Anne , Stenzel Mark , Kwok Richard K , Engel Lawrence S , Cavallari Jennifer M , Blair Aaron , Sandler Dale P , Stewart Patricia
Published: April 2019

Tens of thousands of individuals performed oil spill response and clean-up (OSRC) activities following the ‘Deepwater Horizon’ oil drilling rig explosion in 2010. Many were exposed to oil residues and dispersants. The US National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences assembled a cohort of nearly 33 000 workers to investigate potential adverse health effects of oil spill exposures. Estimates of dermal and inhalation exposure are required for those individuals. Ambient breathing-zone measurements taken at the time of the spill were used to estimate inhalation exposures for participants in the GuLF STUDY (Gulf Long-term Follow-up Study), but no dermal measurements were collected. Consequently, a modelling approach was used to estimate dermal exposures. We sought to modify DREAM (DeRmal Exposure Assessment Method) to optimize the model for assessing exposure to various oil spill-related substances and to incorporate advances in dermal exposure research. Each DREAM parameter was reviewed in the context of literature published since 2000 and modified where appropriate. To reflect the environment in which the OSRC work took place, the model treatment of evaporation was expanded to include vapour pressure and wind speed, and the effect of seawater on exposure was added. The modified model is called GuLF DREAM and exposure is estimated in GuLF DREAM units (GDU). An external validation to assess the performance of the model for oils, tars, and fuels was conducted using available published dermal wipe measurements of heavy fuel oil (HFO) and dermal hand wash measurements of asphalt. Overall, measured exposures had moderate correlations with GDU estimates (r = 0.59) with specific correlations of −0.48 for HFO and 0.68 for asphalt. The GuLF DREAM model described in this article has been used to generate dermal exposure estimates for the GuLF STUDY. Many of the updates made were generic, so the updated model may be useful for other dermal exposure scenarios.
Quality Indicators for Appropriate Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy in Adults: A Systematic Review and RAND-modified Delphi Procedure
Authors: Berrevoets Marvin A H , ten Oever Jaap , Oerlemans Anke J M , Kullberg Bart Jan , Hulscher Marlies E , Schouten Jeroen A
Published: April 2019

Background

Our aim in this study was to develop quality indicators (QIs) for outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) care that can be used as metrics for quality assessment and improvement.

Methods

A RAND-modified Delphi procedure was used to develop a set of QIs. Recommendations on appropriate OPAT care in adults were retrieved from the literature using a systematic review and translated into potential QIs. These QIs were appraised and prioritized by a multidisciplinary panel of international OPAT experts in 2 questionnaire rounds combined with a meeting between rounds.

Results

The procedure resulted in 33 OPAT-specific recommendations. The following QIs that describe recommended OPAT care were prioritized by the expert panel: the presence of a structured OPAT program, a formal OPAT care team, a policy on patient selection criteria, and a treatment and monitoring plan; assessment for OPAT should be performed by the OPAT team; patients and family should be informed about OPAT; there should be a mechanism in place for urgent discussion and review of emergent clinical problems, and a system in place for rapid communication; laboratory results should be delivered to physicians within 24 hours; and the OPAT team should document clinical response to antimicrobial management, document adverse events, and monitor QIs for OPAT care and make these data available.

Conclusions

We systematically developed a set of 33 QIs for optimal OPAT care, of which 12 were prioritized by the expert panel. These QIs can be used to assess and improve the quality of care provided by OPAT teams.
Staged transcatheter closure for atrial septal defect and patent ductus arteriosus: a case report
Authors: Soma Yusuke , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Kanazawa Hideaki , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: April 2019

Background

Atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) are both common congenital heart diseases, but the combination of these two cardiac defects is extremely rare, and the therapeutic strategy is controversial.

Case summary

We treated an adult patient with combined ASD and PDA, and safely attained a successful outcome with two-stage transcatheter closure, which is PDA closure preceding ASD closure, to prevent serious complications.

Discussion

Transcatheter closure of one of the defects is now widely accepted as an alternative to surgical closure. In addition, adults with both ASD and PDA are better suited for transcatheter closure than surgical closure. One of the reasons is the difficulty to ligate the ductus arteriosus of an adult patient due to its friability and calcification. Meanwhile, simultaneous combined transcatheter closure of ASD and PDA can result in serious complications, such as thrombocytopenia and haemolysis, whose mechanism is considered to be the destruction of platelets and red blood cells by the residual shunt through implanted devices. Additionally, antiplatelet therapy that prevents device-related thrombus formation after ASD closure can possibly exacerbate thrombocytopenia and haemolysis. Therefore, the staged strategy is reasonable from the perspectives of antiplatelet therapy and haemodynamic changes.
Ventricular septal rupture presented with chronic heart failure symptoms: a case report
Authors: Michelis Ioannis , Kontonasakis Ioannis , Tsakliadou Christina , Kouvelas Nikolaos
Published: April 2019

Background

Ventricular septal rupture (VSR) is a rare mechanical complication following acute myocardial infarction, with very high mortality rate. Haemodynamic deterioration and cardiogenic shock is common in such cases. Rarely, however, patients may show only signs of chronic heart failure or be completely asymptomatic.

Case summary

We report a case of a 72-year-old male patient with VSR following a transmural myocardial infarction. He sought medical attention only after gradually experiencing symptoms of chronic heart failure, weeks after the onset of the myocardial infarction. The patient successfully underwent elective repair surgery, after optimizing the medical therapy and completing the necessary workup.

Discussion

Ventricular septal rupture repair is necessary in all cases due to the high mortality rate if left untreated. The timing of the operation, however, should be decided individually for every patient. Haemodynamically unstable patients may require early surgery, but in stable patients responding to medical treatment, delayed repair may be the best option.
The influence of performance reviews on regional fisheries management organizations
Authors: Haas Bianca , Haward Marcus , McGee Jeffrey , Fleming Aysha
Published: April 2019

Regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) are key bodies responsible for managing fisheries on the high seas and also in areas of the ocean under national jurisdiction. The performance of RFMOs has, however, become the focus of broad-based criticism in the context of increasing fishing effort, the scale, and sophistication of illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, and concerns over the wider environmental impacts of fishing activities. In response to these criticisms, the United Nations General Assembly has called on RFMOs to carry out performance reviews (PRs) to assess their record in fisheries management. PRs can provide the opportunity to assess the strengths and weaknesses of past actions by specific RFMOs. There is, however, limited information and analysis available on the progress made by RFMOs after PRs have been carried out. To fill this gap, this paper assesses the performance of five RFMOs that have undergone PRs on two occasions. The paper assesses the performance of these five RFMOs against a scoring system that analyses improvements made after the first PR based on the recommendations made in the second PR. This analysis is encouraging, as all five RFMOs demonstrated significant improvement in their performance in the period after their initial PR, especially in “conservation and management” and “international cooperation” activities.
Performance evaluation of a newly developed three-dimensional model-based global-to-local registration in prostate cancer
Authors: Nakamura Mitsuhiro , Nakao Megumi , Hirashima Hideaki , Iramina Hiraku , Mizowaki Takashi
Published: April 2019

We evaluated the performance of a newly developed three-dimensional (3D) model-based global-to-local registration of multiple organs, by comparing it with a 3D model-based global registration in the prostate region. This study included 220 prostate cancer patients who underwent intensity-modulated radiotherapy or volumetric-modulated arc therapy. Our registration proceeded sequentially, i.e. global registration including affine and piece-wise affine transformation followed by local registration. As a local registration, Laplacian-based and finite element method-based registration was implemented in Algorithm A and B, respectively. Algorithm C was for global registration alone. The template models for the prostate, seminal vesicles, rectum and bladder were constructed from the first 20 patients, and then three different registrations were performed on these organs for the remaining 200 patients, to assess registration accuracy. The 75th percentile Hausdorff distance was <1 mm in Algorithm A; it was >1 mm in Algorithm B, except for the prostate; and 3.9 mm for the prostate and >7.8 mm for other organs in Algorithm C. The median computation time to complete registration was <101, 30 and 16 s in Algorithms A, B and C, respectively. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among Algorithms A–C in the Hausdorff distance and computation time. In addition, no significant difference was observed in the difference of Hausdorff distance between Algorithm A and B with Tukey’s multiple comparison test. The 3D model-based global-to-local registration, especially that implementing Laplacian-based registration, completed surface registration rapidly and provided sufficient registration accuracy in the prostate region.
Fermi LAT detection of the supernova remnant SN 1006 revisited: The southwest limb
Authors: Xing Yi , Wang Zhongxiang , Zhang Xiao , Chen Yang
Published: April 2019

The data from the Large Area Telescope (LAT) on board the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope have recently been updated. Thus we re-analyze the LAT data for the supernova remnant (SNR) SN 1006. Two parts of γ-ray emission from the region are clearly resolved, which correspond to the northeast (NE) and southwest (SW) limbs of the SNR. The former has been detected in the previous LAT data (Xing et al. 2016, ApJ, 823, 44), but the latter is newly detected in this work. The detections of the two limbs are at a ∼4σ significance level, and the spectral results for the NE limb are consistent with those obtained in previous detection analyses. We construct the broadband spectral energy distribution (SED) for the SW limb. Different scenarios are considered for its SED in γ-ray energies. We conclude that, very similarly in the case of the NE limb, the high-energy and very high-energy emissions from the SW limb is likely dominated by the leptonic process, in which high-energy electrons accelerated from the shell region of the SNR inverse-Compton scatter background photons to γ-rays.
Short-Term Effects of Sublethal Doses of Nematicides on Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Wram Catherine L. , Zasada Inga A.
Published: April 2019

Meloidogyne species are one of the most important groups of plant-parasitic nematodes globally because of their ability to damage most cultivated plants. Although they are widespread and economically important, there are limited control measures to combat these nematodes. New nonfumigant nematicides have been discovered that have the potential to be widely utilized for the management of plant-parasitic nematodes. Because of the longer half-lives in soil and lower toxicity of new nematicides compared with traditional fumigant and nonfumigant nematicides, understanding how nematodes respond to sublethal doses of nematicides is imperative to understanding whether nematicide resistance has the potential to develop. Characterizing responses of nematodes to sublethal doses will provide the foundation for future work, such as gene expression studies. In this study, the nematicides oxamyl (Vydate), fluazaindolizine (Salibro), fluensulfone (Nimitz), and fluopyram (Velum), were evaluated to understand how sublethal doses affect the fecundity and mobility of Meloidogyne incognita second-stage juveniles (J2). Using a microwell assay system, dose-response curves for each nematicide were established for M. incognita J2. Fluopyram was the most toxic nematicide, with effective doses up to 230 times lower than that of other nematicides. The other nematicides had predicted ED50 values (effective doses that resulted in 50% of the population becoming inactive) of 89.4, 131.7, and 180.6 ppm for oxamyl, fluensulfone, and fluazaindolizine, respectively. The 24-h ED50 of each nematicide was then used in both motility and infectivity assays. The motility and activity of M. incognita J2 exposed to ED50 doses of fluazaindolizine and fluensulfone was significantly reduced, with nematodes initially being motile but eventually becoming inactive. However, the motility of M. incognita J2 exposed to ED50 doses of fluopyram and oxamyl was not different from a water control. In a pot assay, M. incognita J2 exposed to ED50 doses of fluazaindolizine, oxamyl, and fluensulfone were unable to reproduce on tomato, with reproduction factors (RF = final population density/initial population density) of 0 to 0.03. Fluopyram did not reduce reproduction of M. incognita, with a mean RF of 38.7 ± 4.5, which was similar to the RF of 46.3 ± 4.6 for the water control. This study is the first comprehensive evaluation of M. incognita activity, motility, and fecundity after exposure to the traditional nematicide, oxamyl, as well as three new nematicides, fluazaindolizine, fluopyram, and fluensulfone.
Edith Irby: A Hidden Figure in the History of Medical Education
Authors: Gamble Vanessa Northington
Published: April 2019

Edith Irby entered the University of Arkansas School of Medicine in September 1948, becoming the first African American to desegregate a Southern medical school. Seventy years later, she has become a hidden figure in the history of medical education.

The author provides a brief biography of Irby (later Jones) and analyzes the factors that led the University of Arkansas to admit Irby, most notably her scholastic excellence and an innovative legal strategy launched by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People to eliminate racial inequalities in graduate and professional education. Irby’s admission prompted intensified efforts by medical civil rights activists to desegregate all U.S. medical schools.

The author concludes that the 70th anniversary of Irby’s groundbreaking accomplishment provides an opportunity to acknowledge her significant contribution to the history of medical education and to recognize the continued need to erase persistent racial inequalities in the physician workforce.
Bilateral Ultrasound-guided Erector Spinae Plane Block for Postoperative Analgesia in Lumbar Spine Surgery: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Singh Swati , Choudhary Neeraj K. , Lalin Dusu , Verma Vinod K.
Published: April 2019

Background:

Major lumbar spine surgery causes severe postoperative pain. The primary objective of this randomized controlled study was to compare the effect of ultrasound (US)-guided erector spinae plane (ESP) block on 24-hour postoperative cumulative opioid requirements with standard (opioid-based) analgesia. Postoperative pain control and patient satisfaction were also assessed.

Materials and Methods:

Adults scheduled for elective lumbar spine surgery under general anesthesia were randomly assigned to the following (and they are): Control group-no preoperative ESP block, or ESP block group-preoperative bilateral US-guided ESP block. Both groups received standard general anesthesia during surgery. Postoperative pain score, number of patients requiring rescue analgesia, and total morphine consumption during the first 24 postoperative hours were recorded. Patient satisfaction was assessed 24 hours after surgery.

Results:

Postoperative morphine consumption was significantly lower in patients in the ESP group compared with those in the control group (1.4±1.5 vs. 7.2±2.0 mg, respectively; P<0.001). All patients in the control group required supplemental morphine compared with only 9 (45%) in the ESP block group (P=0.002). Pain scores immediately after surgery (P=0.002) and at 6 hours after surgery (P=0.040) were lower in the ESP block group compared with the control group. Patient satisfaction scores were more favorable in the block group (P<0.0001).

Conclusions:

US-guided ESP block reduces postoperative opioid requirement and improves patient satisfaction compared with standard analgesia in lumbar spine surgery patients.
Glass-Box Testing the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Integrated Care Pathway for Major Depressive and Alcohol Use Disorders: Is It More Than a Sum of Its Components?
Authors: Samokhvalov Andriy V. , Probst Charlotte , Rehm Jürgen
Published: April 2019

Objectives:

Integrated care pathways (ICP) have been successfully developed in multiple areas of medicine with evidence supporting their superior effectiveness when compared to treatment as usual (TAU). There are lack of data indicating that specifically integration of services plays a crucial role in ICP effectiveness rather than simple combination of effective treatment techniques for concurrent major depressive and alcohol use disorders.

Methods:

A clinical chart review was completed to compare patients receiving ICP to those receiving TAU analyzed by univariate and multivariate regression models to see if allocation to ICP would be a significant determinant of reduction in drinking.

Results:

Of the 237 patients included into the analyses, 133 patients received ICP treatment and 104 received TAU. Patients were similar in their demographics, but there were differences in several baseline characteristics, 2 of which were significantly associated with reduction of drinking as the primary outcome—baseline alcohol consumption measured as standard drinks per week [SD/w; β = −0.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.38 to −0.10, P < 0.001] and cannabis use (β = −17.58, 95% CI −30.89 to −4.28, P < 0.01). Receiving ICP treatment versus TAU was associated with significantly higher reduction in drinking (β = 40.23, 95% CI 30.39 to 52.26, P < 0.001). Almost all treatment parameters were associated with reduction in drinking in univariate analyses and after adjusting for baseline SD/w and cannabis use. In multivariate models only treatment model (β = 27.23, 95% CI 12.47 to 41.99, P < 0.001), baseline SD/w and cannabis use contributed significantly; the assignment to integrated treatment group explained 72% of the variability.

Conclusions:

ICP treatment model is associated with superior treatment outcomes in comparison to TAU. Integration of treatment techniques seems to be more important that the techniques themselves or their intensity.
Neighborhood Perceptions Associated with Gambling Outcomes
Authors: Monson Eva , Kairouz Sylvia , Fleury Marie-Josée , Caron Jean
Published: April 2019

Objectives:

Within the field of gambling research, an emerging body of literature has begun to examine the associations between neighborhood context and gambling outcomes (i.e., gambling participation and problems). Previous research has been heavily focused on objective measures of neighborhood influence with few studies examining subjective (i.e., perceived) neighborhood attributes as they relate to gambling outcomes. This study aimed to expand knowledge of the effects of neighborhood characteristics on gambling patterns and problems.

Methods:

Using data derived from the fourth wave of an epidemiological community sample (n = 1862), this study explores the associations between perceived neighborhood contextual factors and gambling participation and problems.

Results:

Our findings reveal that community participation was positively related to gambling participation, even after accounting for control variables (i.e., sex and social support). Perceived neighborhood disorder was positively associated with problem gambling.

Conclusions:

Findings highlight the importance of looking beyond individual risk factors for gambling outcomes. Population-based interventions for gambling problems may benefit from understanding how neighborhood contexts come into play.

Objectifs:

Le domaine de la recherche sur les jeux de hasard et d’argent (JHA) voit émerger une littérature qui examine les associations entre les facteurs de l’environnement et les habitudes de JHA (c’est-à-dire la participation et les problèmes de jeu). Les recherches antérieures se sont fortement centrées sur les mesures objectives de l’influence de l’environnement et peu d’études ont examiné les caractéristiques perçues de l’environnement en lien avec les comportements de jeu. Cette étude visait à élargir la connaissance des effets des caractéristiques de l’environnement sur les habitudes de JHA.

Méthodes:

À partir de données provenant de la quatrième vague de collecte d’un échantillon épidémiologique recruté dans la communauté (n = 1 862), cette étude explore les associations entre les facteurs contextuels de voisinage perçus, la participation et les problèmes de jeu.

Résultats:

Nos résultats révèlent que la participation communautaire est positivement liée à la participation aux JHA lorsque le sexe et le soutien social sont contrôlés. Le trouble perçu dans le voisinage est associé positivement au jeu problématique.

Conclusion:

Les résultats suggèrent qu’il est important de regarder au-delà des facteurs de risque individuels dans l’étude des habitudes de JHA. Les interventions populationnelles visant les problèmes de JHA bénéficieraient grandement d’une meilleure compréhension du rôle du voisinage.
Effects of progesterone treatment during adulthood on consummatory and motivational aspects of sexual behavior in male rats
Authors: Hawley Wayne R. , Mosura Deandra E.
Published: April 2019

In males of a variety of species, administration of progesterone during adulthood has been shown to decrease the expression of consummatory sexual behaviors and androgen receptors. However, it remains to be determined if the progesterone-induced decrease in androgen-receptor signaling and consummatory sexual behaviors correspond with less of a preference for a sexually receptive female relative to another male, a behavioral phenotype indicative of sexual motivation. Consistent with the effects of progesterone reported in males of other species, progesterone-treated rats, relative to vehicle-treated rats, exhibited fewer intromissions and ejaculations. Correspondingly, the weights of the androgen sensitive bulbourethral glands were lighter in progesterone-treated rats. In addition, unlike vehicle-treated rats, progesterone-treated rats did not exhibit a preference for a female rat during the early stages of testing. However, across the entire test, both treatment groups exhibited a preference for a female rat, and consequently, there were no differences between the conditions in overall sexual motivation. Progesterone treatment did not alter activity or anxiety-like behaviors. The results of the current study suggest that the lower levels of androgen-receptor signaling and consummatory sexual behaviors in males following progesterone treatment are associated with a transient deficit in the preference for a female sexual incentive.
Traumatic Microbleeds in the Hippocampus and Corpus Callosum Predict Duration of Posttraumatic Amnesia
Authors: Mazwi Nicole L. , Izzy Saef , Tan Can Ozan , Martinez Sergi , Glenn Mel B. , Giacino Joseph T. , Wu Ona , Zafonte Ross , Edlow Brian L.
Published: April 2019

Objective:

Radiologic predictors of posttraumatic amnesia (PTA) duration are lacking. We hypothesized that the number and distribution of traumatic microbleeds (TMBs) detected by gradient recalled echo (GRE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) predicts PTA duration.

Setting:

Academic, tertiary medical center.

Participants:

Adults with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Design:

We identified 65 TBI patients with acute GRE MRI. PTA duration was determined with the Galveston Orientation and Amnesia Test, Orientation Log, or chart review. TMBs were identified within memory regions (hippocampus, corpus callosum, fornix, thalamus, and temporal lobe) and control regions (internal capsule and global). Regression tree analysis was performed to identify radiologic predictors of PTA duration, controlling for clinical PTA predictors.

Main Measures:

TMB distribution, PTA duration.

Results:

Sixteen patients (25%) had complicated mild, 4 (6%) had moderate, and 45 (69%) had severe TBI. Median PTA duration was 43 days (range, 0-240 days). In univariate analysis, PTA duration correlated with TMBs in the corpus callosum (R = 0.29, P = .02) and admission Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (R = −0.34, P = .01). In multivariate regression analysis, admission GCS score was the only significant contributor to PTA duration. However, in regression tree analysis, hippocampal TMBs, callosal TMBs, age, and admission GCS score explained 26% of PTA duration variance and distinguished a subgroup with prolonged PTA.

Conclusions:

Hippocampal and callosal TMBs are potential radiologic predictors of PTA duration.
Radiologic Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Increases the Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Suppressed Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Cho Hyeki , Chang Young , Lee Jeong-Hoon , Cho Young Youn , Nam Joon Yeul , Lee Yun Bin , Lee Dong Ho , Cho Eun Ju , Yu Su Jong , Kim Yoon Jun , Lee Jeong Min , Yoon Jung-Hwan
Published: April 2019

Background and Goals:

Although nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a risk factor of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), it is unclear whether NAFLD additionally increases the risk of HCC among chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. This study evaluated the association between NAFLD and the risk of HCC in patients whose hepatitis B virus (HBV) was well controlled.

Study:

This study included consecutive CHB patients whose serum HBV DNA levels were continuously suppressed <2000 IU/mL with antiviral treatment. Fatty liver was radiologically diagnosed. Patients with concomitant hepatitis C infection, autoimmune hepatitis, or excessive alcohol use were excluded.

Results:

Among 826 patients, 86 patients (10.4%) developed HCC during the study period (median, 43.1 mo). The patients with NAFLD (N=260) had a significantly higher risk for HCC compared with patients without NAFLD (N=566) (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.67; 95% confidence interval, 1.05-2.63;P=0.03) after adjustment for age, the presence of cirrhosis, hepatitis B envelop antigen positivity, low-level viremia and hypertension. There was significant association between incomplete biochemical response (IBR) (alanine aminotransferase levels ≥40 IU/L) and the presence of NAFLD (P<0.001 by χ2test). IBR at the time of virological response was associated with a significantly higher risk of HCC development (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.06-2.54;P=0.03).

Conclusions:

NAFLD increases the risk of HCC in patients with CHB in whom HBV is effectively suppressed by antivirals. Patients with IBR should be suspected of concurrent NAFLD. Further study is warranted to evaluate whether improvement of NAFLD might decrease the risk of HCC development.
Face-to-Face Documentation Using the FACE-2-FACE Method
Authors: Quinlin Linda
Published: April 2019

Nurse practitioners play an integral part of the face-to-face visit. The face-to-face visit requirement came into effect on January 11, 2011, for hospice patients entering their third or later benefit period. The face-to-face requirement was created because of concerns regarding high numbers of hospice patients with lengths of stay greater than 180 days, in addition to concerns the physician was not as active in the care of the hospice patient as required. Face-to-face visits can be completed by the hospice physician or nurse practitioner employed by the hospice agency. The face-to-face narrative includes a clear title, date, clinical findings demonstrating continued hospice eligibility and a signature of the individual completing the face-to-face visit. In addition, an attestation statement stating that the encounter was completed with the patient and the clinical findings were provided to the certifying physician is also a requirement of the narrative. Documenting clinical findings that demonstrate hospice eligibility can be challenging. Using the FACE-2-FACE method can help clarify the clinical findings necessary to demonstrate the patient’s continued hospice eligibility.
Nurses’ Perspectives on Family Caregiver Medication Management Support and Deprescribing
Authors: Tjia Jennifer , DeSanto-Madeya Susan , Mazor Kathleen M. , Han Paul , Nguyen Bryan , Curran Tess , Gallagher Julia , Clayton Margaret F.
Published: April 2019

Nurses who care for patients with life-limiting illness operate at the interface of family caregivers (FCGs), patients, and prescribers and are uniquely positioned to guide late-life medication management, including challenging discussions about deprescribing. The study objective was to describe nurses’ perspectives about their role in hospice FCG medication management. Content analysis was used to analyze qualitative interviews with nurses from a parent study exploring views on medication management and deprescribing for advanced cancer patients. Ten home and inpatient hospice nurses, drawn from 3 hospice agencies and their referring hospital systems in New England, were asked to describe current practices of medication management and deprescribing and to evaluate a pilot tool to standardize hospice medication review. Analysis of the 10 interviews revealed that hospice nurses are receptive to a standardized approach for comprehensive medication review upon hospice transition and responded favorably to opportunities to discuss medication discontinuation with FCGs and prescribers. Effective framing for discussions included focus on reducing harmful and nonessential medications and reducing caregiver burden. Results indicate that nurses who care for hospice-eligible and enrolled patients are willing to discuss deprescribing with FCGs and prescribers when conversations are framed around medication harms and their impact on quality of life.