bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparison of Patients from Argentina and Germany to Assess Factors Impacting Brachial Plexus and Brain Injury
Authors: Socolovsky Mariano , Antoniadis Gregor , Lovaglio Ana , Durner Gregor , Bonilla Gonzalo , Schmidhammer Markus , di Masi Gilda
Published: August 2019

Background Traumatic brachial plexus injuries (BPIs) represent a major cause of disability in young patients. The purpose of this study was to compare two populations (from Argentina and Germany) who suffered a traumatic BPI after a motorcycle accident to identify predictors of BPI and brain injury severity.

Methods Univariate and multivariable intergroup comparisons were conducted, and odds ratios were calculated to assess the associations between the different demographic, morphometric, and trauma-related variables, and the type and severity of patients' injuries. Pearson correlation coefficients were generated to identify statistically significant correlations.

Results A total of 187 patients were analyzed, 139 from Argentina and 48 from Germany. The two countries differed significantly in age and several morphometric and trauma-related variables. The clinical presentation was also convincingly different in the two countries. The following three variables remained as statistically significant predictors of a complete (vs. partial) BPI: living in Argentina (p < 0.001), presenting prior to 2015 (p = 0.004), and greater estimated speed at the time of impact (p = 0.074). As for BPIs, a disproportionate percentage (85.6%) of more severe brain injuries occurred in Argentinian patients (p < 0.001) and among those whose accident involved striking a stationary vertical object.

Conclusions This study identified several factors that might be considered when planning governmental policies and education initiatives to reduce BPI and brain injuries related to motorcycle use.

Level of evidence II-2 (evidence obtained from case–control studies).
A Pilot Study on the Effects of Physician Gaze on Patient Satisfaction in the Setting of Electronic Health Records
Authors: Ou Michael T. , Kleiman Hannah , Kalarn Sachin , Moradi Ahmadreza , Shukla Shweta , Danielson Madalyn , Kaleem Mona , Boland Michael , Robin Alan L. , Saeedi Osamah J.
Published: August 2019

This study aims to determine the amount of time ophthalmologists using electronic health records (EHRs) spend looking at the patient and its correlation on patient satisfaction. This prospective cohort study examined 67 patients seeking care at two different ophthalmology clinics. Videos of entire office visits were recorded and each video was graded for amount of time spent by physicians gazing at the patient, computer, paper medical records, or other areas. Videos were also graded for the amount of time examining the patient, and the physician speaking during each visit. A patient satisfaction survey was administered at the end of each office encounter. Time of physician gaze to the patient was correlated to satisfaction outcome measures. Ophthalmologists spent 28.0 ± 21.2% of the visit looking at the computer. Overall, patient satisfaction levels were very high (4.8 ± 0.5, five-point Likert's scale). Ophthalmologists spent the same amount of time looking at patients who were extremely satisfied (28.8 ± 16.7%), as those who were not extremely satisfied (28.8 ± 15.9%). Ophthalmologists on EHRs spend over one-third of the time of each patient visit looking at the computer. However, patient satisfaction levels are very high. The amount of time that the ophthalmologist gazes at the patient or the computer does not appear to have an effect on patient satisfaction in this particular study. Further research still needs to be performed regarding the effects of EHRs on the patient experience. Physicians should continue to be sensitive to their patients' needs and approach the use of EHRs in patient encounters on an individual basis.
Doxorubicin-Immersed Skeletal Muscle Grafts Promote Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Across a 10-mm Defect in the Rat Sciatic Nerve
Authors: Takeuchi Hisataka , Sakamoto Akio , Ikeguchi Ryosuke , Ota Soichi , Oda Hiroki , Yurie Hirofumi , Mitsuzawa Sadaki , Matsuda Shuichi
Published: August 2019

Background The treatment of peripheral nerve defects requires bridging materials. Skeletal muscle grafts have been studied as an alternative to nerve autografts because they contain longitudinally aligned basal laminar tubes that are similar to axons. Several pretreatment methods for muscle grafts have promoted axonal regeneration. Here, a new method of doxorubicin pretreatment was used, and the efficacy of the pretreated muscle graft was evaluated in a rat model of a sciatic nerve defect.

Methods A rat model of a 10-mm sciatic nerve defect was analyzed in three settings: muscle grafts with and without doxorubicin pretreatment (M-graft-w-Dox and M-graft-w/o-Dox groups, respectively) and a nerve autograft group (N-graft) (n = 6/group). The M-graft-w-Dox group was immersed in a doxorubicin solution for 10 minutes and rinsed with saline. Analyses of target muscle atrophy, electrophysiology, and histology were performed 8 weeks after grafting.

Results Electrophysiological parameters and target muscle atrophy were significantly superior in the M-graft-w-Dox group compared with the M-graft-w/o-Dox group. Histological assessment revealed the presence of a significantly greater number of regenerated axons in the M-graft-w-Dox group versus the M-graft-w/o-Dox group, while there were no significant differences between the M-graft-w-Dox and N-graft groups. The diameter of myelinated axons of the regenerated nerve in the M-graft-w-Dox group was significantly larger than that in the M-graft-w/o-Dox group, while it was not significantly different compared with the N-graft group.

Conclusion Pretreatment of muscle grafts with doxorubicin promoted significant peripheral nerve regeneration. This method may represent a new option for the treatment of peripheral nerve defects.
Ewing's Sarcoma of Frontal Bone: A Rare Case
Authors: Misra Rajneesh , Kumar Sushil , Sinha Rohan , Sharma Sandeep
Published: August 2019

Primary Ewing's sarcoma arising from frontal bone is rare. We report a case of 17-year-old boy with painless swelling in the frontoparietal region. Computed tomography showed destruction of bone and an enhancing extradural mass. The patient underwent wide excision combined with radio and chemotherapy. Histopathology revealed it to be round cell sarcoma, and immunohistochemistry confirmed it to be Ewing's sarcoma.
Extracting significant signal of news consumption from social networks: the case of Twitter in Italian political elections
Authors: Becatti Carolina , Caldarelli Guido , Lambiotte Renaud , Saracco Fabio
Published: August 2019

According to the Eurobarometer report about EU media use of May 2018, the number of European citizens who consult on-line social networks for accessing information is considerably increasing. In this work we analyse approximately 106 tweets exchanged during the last Italian elections held on March 4, 2018. Using an entropy-based null model discounting the activity of the users, we first identify potential political alliances within the group of verified accounts: if two verified users are retweeted more than expected by the non-verified ones, they are likely to be related. Then, we derive the users’ affiliation to a coalition measuring the polarisation of unverified accounts. Finally, we study the bipartite directed representation of the tweets and retweets network, in which tweets and users are collected on the two layers. Users with the highest out-degree identify the most popular ones, whereas highest out-degree posts are the most “viral”. We identify significant content spreaders with a procedure that allows to statistically validate the connections that cannot be explained by users’ tweeting activity and posts’ virality, using an entropy-based null model as benchmark. The analysis of the directed network of validated retweets reveals signals of the alliances formed after the elections, highlighting commonalities of interests before the event of the national elections.
Different control strategies lead to similar performance for crossflow turbines
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: August 2019

Comparing crossflow turbine performance under two control strategies reveals small but measurable differences that could inform future experiments.
Facile Preparation of Iron-Manganese Oxide@Diatomite Composite for Effective Removal of Vanadium from Wastewater
Authors: Song Junying , Huang Zhanbin , Yang Fengzhi
Published: August 2019

Excess pentavalent vanadium(v) has severely degraded water quality and posed a huge threat to human health over the past several decades. Hence, it’s urgent and significant to explore a novel adsorbent which is low cost and efficient to treat vanadium pollution. In this work, a novel iron-manganese oxide@diatomite (MnFe2O4@DE) adsorbent with superior removal performance for simulated vanadium(v) wastewater was synthesised via a facile hydrothermal method. The as-prepared MnFe2O4@DE composite was characterised through different characterisation techniques. The results indicated that the MnFe2O4 nanoparticles were uniformly deposited on the surface of diatomite, resulting in a larger specific surface area and pore volume of the composite. In addition, the MnFe2O4@DE adsorbent exhibited the highest adsorption capacity for vanadium(v) (18.37mgg−1±0.5%), which was up to around 13.24 and 1.33 times as much as that of pure diatomite and MnFe2O4, respectively. This is mainly attributed to the enhanced specific surface area and pore volume. Furthermore, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis demonstrated vanadium(v) could be reduced to low valence vanadium with low toxicity by the MnFe2O4@DE composite which could exist as VO2+ and VO+ cations in solution. The adsorption process was better fitted with a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir model, which is spontaneous and endothermic. Overall, the novel MnFe2O4@DE composite could be applied as a promising adsorbent in addressing vanadium pollution issues due to its properties of low cost, effectiveness, and environmental friendliness.
How is the fragipan incorporated in the pore space architecture of a boreal Retisol?
Authors: Pogosyan L. , Abrosimov K. , Romanenko K. , Marquez J. , Sedov S.
Published: August 2019

A fragipan is a diagnostic subsurface soil, not a cemented horizon, which is characterised by high density, and so restricts root penetration and water percolation. Although fragic horizons are considered to be pedogenic, the exact genesis of this phenomenon is not well understood. Quantitative study of pore space characteristics in a profile with a fragipan could help in understanding its origin and its pedogenic links to the other diagnostic horizons. Micromorphological and morphometric study of the porous network in soil thin sections and computed tomography in an Albic Fragic Retisol (Cutanic), formed in glacial till of Valday (Wurm) Glaciation in the South Karelia region in the north of Russia, showed a differentiation of pores by shape and distribution for each soil horizon controlled by the type of soil-forming processes. In particular we detected a difference in pore space organisation in the fragic EBx compared with other horizons. The pore space in the EBx was mainly represented by closed micropores, spread homogenously in the soil horizon body, independent of fissure and packing pores. Thus we propose that the pore system in this horizon was heterochronous, with micropores formed at the time of structural collapse and the fissures and other pores formed later.
Spreading of perturbations in myosin group kinetics along actin filaments
Authors: Balassy Zsombor , Lauzon Anne-Marie , Hilbert Lennart
Published: August 2019

Significance

The emergence of spatially distributed phenomena, such as traffic jams or disease outbreaks, results from spreading of local events to larger scale. We investigated spreading of local events in the simplified situation of a 1-dimensional system. In particular, we addressed perturbations in the mechanochemistry of groups of myosin molecular motors that propel linear actin filaments. Using in vitro experiments and simulations, we conclude that perturbations spread along filaments by local mechanical coupling; the kinetic stability of a given perturbation and actin length together determine the likelihood that a perturbation has system-wide impact. We also generalized these findings to a spin chain model with nearest-neighbor coupling, meaning that they should also apply in other systems with local coupling and linear geometry.
Enhanced adaptive immune responses in lung adenocarcinoma through natural killer cell stimulation
Authors: Schmidt Leah , Eskiocak Banu , Kohn Ryan , Dang Celeste , Joshi Nikhil S. , DuPage Michel , Lee Da-Yae , Jacks Tyler
Published: August 2019

Significance

T cell-targeted therapies are effective against lung cancer only in a fraction of patients, highlighting a need for complimentary approaches. In genetically engineered lung cancer in mice, stimulation of natural killer cells in established disease led to enhanced adaptive immune responses, presenting a strategy for improving the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy.
The effect of task modality and discourse mode on EFL learners’ narrative task performance
Authors: Asgari Majid , Jafari Sakineh
Published: August 2019

This study examined the effect of task mode (written vs. spoken) and discourse mode (pair vs. individual) on advanced Iranian EFL learners’ task performance. Participants, four groups of advanced learners, performed a narrative task in four conditions: the first group of participants performed the task individually in a spoken mode, the second group performed the task individually in a written mode, the third group performed the task in pairs in a spoken mode, and the participants in the fourth group performed the task in pairs in a written mode. The results indicated that the participants’ performances, in terms of complexity, accuracy, and fluency improved greatly among learners who worked in pairs rather than individually, and those who performed written tasks rather than oral ones.
Van typiste naar ingenieur?
Authors: Koster Dietha , Iding Chiara
Published: August 2019

Studies on English language learning materials indicate that women are underrepresented and often appear in low-status professions, though gender equality increases within the last decade (Sunderland, 2015). To what degree does this finding apply for textbooks for learners of Dutch as a Second Language (DSL)? To our knowledge, there are no studies into gender and profession in DSL materials. Dutch however, constitutes an interesting case as both female, male and ‘gender neutral’ professional role nouns exist, while their use is not formally regulated. We systematically analyzed textual and pictorial representations of female and male professionals in textbook chapters about work in fifteen DSL textbooks published within the last 50 years. We drew on quantitative (e.g., number of fe/male and ‘gender neutral’ professional names; instances of male generics and firstness; number of depicted wo/men) and qualitative (e.g., nature of the most frequent professional names; categorization of textbook images) methods to do so. Results show that women are not underrepresented in dialogues and pictures, but that dialogue themes are unequally divided over women and men. Moreover, women are backgrounded through male generics and male firstness and female professional names appear less frequently than male names. Women are also described in gender typical roles, whereas men are not. This holds for both older (1974–2009) and recent textbooks (2011–2017). Overall, more ‘gender neutral’ nouns refer to men in the corpus, but they are used more frequently to refer to women within the last decade. Future studies should address the present theme from psycholinguistic and classroom discourse perspectives and consider additional analytical domains (e.g. chapters about family) and foci (e.g. analyses of verbs associated with wo/men). We discuss pedagogical implications (e.g., screen materials for male firstness; describe women in a greater variety of roles; reverse gender roles in class) for those with concern for gender equality in language education.
Improved cloud computing model of internet pricing schemes based on Cobb-Douglas utility function
Authors: Indrawati  , Puspita Fitri Maya , Yuliza Evi , Dwipurwani Oki , Putri Yossy Eka , Affriyanti
Published: August 2019

In this research, cloud computing model on internet pricing scheme based on Cobb-Douglas utility function was formed. The model formed is a combination of cloud computing model, consumer problem model by using Cobb-Douglas utility functions. These model considers the level of customer satisfaction on the sale of a service product and the service quality of the service provider company. The model used is solved by using LINGO 13.0 program to get the optimal solution result. Based on the calculation, the optimal solution was obtained for two types of cases, for the first case is 217.76 and for the second case is 206.97 which is on cloud computing model with usage based pricing scheme and flat fee, respectively. Based on the result of each cases, both Internet Service Provider (ISP) and internet users will get maximum benefit when ISP applied models with utility function compared to the original model.
Implementation of branch and cut method on n-sheet model in solving two dimensional cutting stock problem
Authors: Bangun Putra BJ , Octarina Sisca , Pertama Ari Putra
Published: August 2019

The problem of cutting raw materials to fulfill the size of demand using certain cutting pattern is called Cutting Stock Problem (CSP). CSP aims to find the optimal cutting pattern with the minimum trim loss. In this research, all possible cutting patterns were generated by pattern generation algorithm where the materials were cut based on the length on the first stage and the width on the rest stage. All patterns were modeled to N-Sheet model and solved using Branch and Cut method. Based on the results, it showed that the N-Sheet model ensured as minimum a possible trim loss to fulfill the demands.
Gilmore and gomory model on two dimensional multiple stock size cutting stock problem
Authors: Octarina Sisca , Ananda Vinny , Yuliza Evi
Published: August 2019

Two-dimensional Multiple Stock Size Cutting Stock Problem (MSS2DCSP) is an optimization problem in determining the optimal cutting pattern of materials with length and width variables. The optimal cutting pattern is needed to minimize the number of materials used. This research implemented the pattern generation algorithm to generate Gilmore and Gomory models on every variation of material size. The first stage generated the pattern based on the length, followed by a pattern generated based on the width on the next stage. Then, Gilmore and Gomory models were generated according to the size of the material, where the Gilmore and Gomory model constraints ensured that strips cut in the first stage cutting were used in the second stage cutting and met all product requirements. The Branch and Bound method were used to determine the minimum size of the material sheets needed.
The irregularity of Avogadro’s hypothesis and determination of the gas constant value (R)
Authors: Bama Akhmad Aminuddin , Panagan Almunady T.
Published: August 2019

Avogadro’s hypothesis, which in reality is used as a “basis” in determining/calculating various thermodynamic variables, and decreasing various derivative equations, is less understandable. Avogadro’s hypothesis is a “hypothesis”, not a “law” that has been widely and correctly proven both analytically and empirically. For this reason, this paper discusses the objections associated with the hypothesis, as well as alternative solutions to determine the gas constant value R (not the universal gas constant as obtained from Avogadro’shypothesis) which depends on the type of gas. These gas constants are obtained through a simple assumption, that is from the definition that 1 (one) mole of gas is a unit related to the number of gas molecules in a certain volume measured at STP conditions (pressure 1 atm, and temperature 25°C = 298°K). With this assumption, it is clear that the gas constant is unique, so it becomes the character of the gas (for gas type X is R
X
=V
X/298 litters · mol−1 · atm · K−1).
Fracture indentification around the aum geothermal manifestation using 2d resistivity method
Authors: Virgo F , Erni  , Affandi A K , Khakim M Y N
Published: August 2019

The research about fractures identification around the geothermal manifestations of The Airklinsar Ulu Musi (AUM) in South Sumatra Indonesia has been carried out. The specific identification was carried out using 2D resistivity method. There are at ease four measurement lines were properly used (The proper length is 384 m.). Those are direct parallel to each other (with the considerable distances are 150 m), and also to the possible strike of Barisan Mountain. Line 1 typically comprises a visible track that intersects some of the geothermal manifestations. The ultimate aim of the comprehensive study was to accurately determine the porous zone scientifically based on the local distribution of rock resistivity values. This porous region is analogous to an extensive area of the possible fracture that acts as a conduit for geothermal fluid to the earth surface. The satisfactory results sufficiently showed that the fracture zone pattern was only exist below Line 1 (with a possible distance of 256-288 m), with starting at a desired depth of five up to 35 m. The specific zone is accurately represented by the resistivity value ranging 15 up to 192 Ωm. Furthermore, it can be reasonably assumed that the fracture pattern below the Line 1 is precisely a possible crack. It extends inward (not extending in the possible direction of the other line) until it encounters the primary fault, the Sumatran Fault.
Implementing triple helix through Listrik Kerakyatan initiative: community-based energy from waste
Authors: Supriadi Amanda Trisia , Legino Supriadi , Purwanto Yudhy S , Wulandari Dewi Arianti , Jatnika Hendra
Published: August 2019

As depicted by its three components, A (academic), B (business), and G (government), the Triple Helix principle aims at narrowing the gap between the competencies of university graduates and those required by businesses or industries in the real world, under the corridor of government rules and regulations. The main issues that will be addressed by the triple helix concept is the national policy to attain 23% of renewable energy portion by the year 2025. However, the conventional electricity construction, which usually prefer a large-scale interconnected system, is currently facing serious delay due to difficulties in acquiring land and permit. Moreover, such large-scale power plants are not sufficient to serve consumers that are scattered in more than three thousand islands in Indonesia archipelago. In addition, such big projects are mostly owned by giant investors that depend on foreign fund and technology, leaving no opportunity for local people to contribute and have ownership over their energy needs. STT PLN proposes a simple small-scale distributed generation that can be owned and managed by local people by using renewable energy sources that are available around the communities. Waste is the most attractive resources because by converting waste to energy, the problem of waste can be solved at the same time. Based on the research and pilot project that had been conducted in three locations, Listrik Kerakyatan (Community-based Electricity) is technically simple so it can be applied and managed by local people. It is also economically viable as the required capital is relatively small and affordable by small enterprises. The commutative law of math also says that 1x1000 = 1000 x1. Therefore, going by that law, the total capacity generated by 1000 units of small LKs can be similar to one large unit of conventional model.
Bethe-Salpeter approach to three-body bound states with zero-range interaction
Authors: Ydrefors E , Alvarenga Nogueira J H , Karmanov V A , Frederico T
Published: August 2019

The Bethe-Salpeter equation for three scalar bosons, with zero-range interaction, is solved in Minkowski space by direct integration of the four-dimensional integral equation. The singularities occuring in the propagators are treated properly by standard analytical and numerical methods, without relying on any ansatz for the Bethe-Salpeter amplitude. The results for the binding energies and transverse amplitudes are compared with the results computed in Euclidean space. A fair agreement between the calculations is obtained.
Phase transitions of cold and dense quark matter in an external magnetic field
Authors: Duarte D C , Farias R L S
Published: August 2019

In this work we study the effects of an external magnetic field in the competition of chiral and diquark order parameters in cold and dense quark matter, using a SU(2) version of the NJL model. We verify the influence of the magnetic field in the phase diagram, and perform a comparison of the results obtained using a Fermi-Dirac form factor regularization with ones obtained by using a method that makes a full separation of the finite magnetic contributions and the divergencies, the Magnetic Field Independent Regularization.
Neutral meson properties in hot and magnetized quark matter
Authors: Farias R L S , Avancini S S , Tavares W R
Published: August 2019

In this work we evaluate the π
0 pole-mass in the RPA approximation at finite magnetic field and temperature in the NJL SU(2) model. To this end, we employ an alternative version of the Magnetic Field Independent Regularization based on the Riemann-Hurwitz zeta function. To employ this formalism, we present a set of equations applied to the gap equation and pseudo-scalar polarization loop at the mean field approximation and random phase approximation.
Core longitudinal momentum distributions in the stripping reactions of two-neutron halo nuclei
Authors: Souza L A , Frederico T , Bertulani C A
Published: August 2019

The core longitudinal momentum distributions in two-neutron stripping reactions for halo nuclei of 20C and 22C are computed and compared to the experimental data obtained by detecting the core nucleus. The three-body wave function from the zero-range renormalized model is used as input in our calculations. We approximate the wave function of the projectile with a three-body structure, namely neutron-neutron-core, to an effective two-body one by integrating over neutron-neutron relative distance, such that the one has a core-dineutron wave function. The eikonal approximation is used in the description of the fragment-target interactions where the São Paulo optical potential is used for modeling the core-target and a Woods-Saxon potential is used for the dineutron-target interaction.
On Acknowledgments
Authors: Callaci Emily
Published: August 2019

What can we learn from reading the acknowledgments in academic books? Many of us read acknowledgments to learn about how the field works, as well as to glean personal information about our intellectual companions. Although they are intended as an expression of gratitude, acknowledgments also reveal some of the processes of exclusion that shape academia.
Evaluation of Personal Exposure to Surgical Smoke Generated from Electrocautery Instruments: A Pilot Study
Authors: Benson Stacey M , Maskrey Joshua R , Nembhard Melanie D , Unice Kenneth M , Shirley Mark A , Panko Julie M
Published: August 2019

Hospital technician surgical smoke exposures during several types of electrocautery-based procedures were evaluated. Personal and area air sampling was performed for 106 individual analytes including ultrafine particulate matter (UFP), volatile organic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, phenol, aldehydes, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, and hydrogen cyanide. Acetone, d-limonene, ethanol, ethyl acetate, and fluorene were measured in surgical suites at concentrations 1.1- to 3.7-fold higher than those observed in background. Benzene, α-pinene, methylene chloride, and n-hexane were measured in the absence of a detectable background concentration. All analytes were measured at concentrations that were <1% of the corresponding US federal and state 8-h permissible exposure limits (PELs), if PELs existed. Full-shift average UFP concentrations ranged from 773 to 2257 particles/cm3, approximately one order of magnitude higher than surgical suite background concentrations. A comparison of two breast reduction procedures suggested that the use of smoke evacuators reduced UFP exposure by 6-fold. We concluded that selection and evaluation of key hazards, particularly UFP, under a variety of experimental conditions would be beneficial to elucidate potential health effects and causes osf employee complaints. Recommendations for successful sampling campaigns in future surgical smoke occupational exposure studies are provided. We also recommend the continued use of engineering controls, local exhaust ventilation, and surgical N95 respirators to reduce personal exposures to UFP in surgical smoke.
The Effects of Vibration and Pressure Treatments in the Early Postoperative Period of Rhinoplasty
Authors: Taş Süleyman
Published: August 2019

Background

The early postoperative period can be distressing for the patients undergoing rhinoplasty since edema and ecchymosis are common complications.

Objectives

To analyze the effects of the vibration and pressure treatments in the early postoperative period of rhinoplasty.

Methods

Sixty patients, who had undergone rhinoplasty, were randomized into 3 groups: group 1 (control group, n = 20) received classic nasal casting, group 2 (n = 20) received nasal cast with an elastic bandage to hold it on the face, and group 3 (n = 20) received vibration treatment in addition to that in group 2 following the rhinoplasty. They were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively at 3 and 7 days in a prospective study. The postoperative edema and ecchymosis were scored by 2 independent surgeons. The postoperative pain was measured using the visual analog scale, and the necessity of anti-inflammatory medication (and the dose needed) and the cast comfort was questioned. The sebaceous activity of the nose skin was examined. A preoperative and postoperative seventh day sonographic study was performed to evaluate the tissue edema objectively.

Results

The pressure treatment decreased the edema and ecchymosis significantly compared with the control group. The vibration treatment minimized edema, ecchymosis, sebaceous activity of the nose skin, pain score, and the need for anti-inflammatory medication, and increased the cast comfort significantly compared with the other groups (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Rapid regression of edema and ecchymosis may be achieved using the vibrating nasal cast technique that may minimize patient discomfort, pain, and sebaceous activity following rhinoplasty.

Level of Evidence: 1
Evaluation of Sweetener Synergy in Humans by Isobole Analyses
Authors: Reyes M Michelle , Gravina Stephen A , Hayes John E
Published: August 2019

The chemical senses and pharmaceuticals fundamentally depend on similar biological processes, but novel molecule discovery has classically been approached from vastly different vantage points. From the perspective of ingredient and flavor companies, there are countless ingredients that act via largely unknown mechanisms, whereas the pharmaceutical industry has numerous mechanisms in search of novel compounds. Mixtures of agonists can result in synergistic (superadditive) responses, which can be quantified via isobole analysis, a well-proven clinical approach in pharmacology. For the food and beverage industries, bulk (caloric) sweeteners like sugars are a key ingredient in sweetened foods and beverages, but consumers also desire products with fewer calories, which has led to the development of sweet enhancers and sweetener blends intended to achieve synergy or superadditivity. Synergistic mixtures are highly attractive targets commercially as they enable lower usage levels and enhanced efficacy. Although the psychophysical literature contains numerous prior reports of sweetener synergy, others have also noted that classical additive models fail to account for nonlinear dose-response functions. To address this shortcoming, here we systematically apply the isobole method from pharmacology to quantify the presence or absence of psychophysical synergy for binary pairs of sweeteners in a series of 15 separate experiments, each with ~100 adult volunteers (total n = 1576). Generally, these data support the hypothesis that structurally similar sweeteners acting as agonists will not synergize, whereas structurally dissimilar sweeteners binding to overlapping or distal sites can act as allosteric agonists or agonist-antagonists, respectively.
Immune Biomarkers in the Prediction of Future Myocardial Infarctions in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus
Authors: Trevillyan Janine M , Moser Carlee , Currier Judith S , Sallam Tamer
Published: August 2019

In a retrospective case control analysis, following adjustments for high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and the CD4/CD8 T-cell ratio, higher lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) was associated with future myocardial infarctions in hsCRP human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). LBP may be a marker of cardiovascular risk with utility in HIV.
Stronger trust and privacy in social networks via local cooperation1
Authors: Grining Krzysztof , Klonowski Marek , Sulkowska Malgorzata
Published: August 2019

In our article, we present several protocols that allow to efficiently construct large groups of users based only on local relations of trust. What is more, our approach proves to need only very small computational and communication overhead. Moreover, we give guarantees that a trusted core of the network is defended, even facing a powerful adversary capable of controlling a vast majority of users. This is non-trivial property in real-life networks, as those are usually modelled using preferential attachment graphs, which are extremely prone to attacks on the hub nodes. We show that using our protocols we can achieve similar robustness as Erdős–Renyí graphs, which, on the contrary, are very resistant against attacks focused on chosen nodes. Our protocols have been tested on graphs representing real-world social networks using high performance computing due to the size of the networks. In addition for some protocols, we provided a formal analysis to prove some phenomena in random graphs following power-law distribution, which we use as a network model. Finally, we explicitly demonstrate how our approach can be used to amplify security offered by some privacy-preserving protocols. We believe however that our results can be also seen as a contribution to fundamental observation about the nature of social networks. These results may help to design protocols, whenever it is necessary to gather a big group of users in highly dynamic or even adversarial settings.
A case report of right ventricular compression from a septal haematoma during retrograde coronary intervention to a chronic total occlusion
Authors: Doshi Darshan , Hatem Raja , Masoumi Amirali , Karmapaliotis Dimitri
Published: August 2019

Background

Septal haematomas causing left ventricular or biventricular outflow obstruction are rare but known complications of chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and can be life-threatening.

Case summary

In this case, we describe the formation of a septal haematoma during retrograde CTO PCI. The patient was initially managed conservatively but became progressively unstable, for which she underwent coiling of the inflow and outflow of the septal perforator. Despite coiling, she developed near complete right ventricular outflow obstruction (based on echocardiography). She was successfully managed with a percutaneous right ventricle assist device, with subsequent resolution of the outflow obstruction.

Discussion

Septal haematomas with resultant outflow obstruction have been uniformly fatal. In our case, the use of a percutaneous right ventricle assist device was life-saving.
Septic thrombosis of internal jugular vein: a rare cause of uncontrollable hiccups
Authors: Sánchez-Gollarte Ana , Mugüerza-Huguet Jose María , Díez-Alonso Manuel Mariano , Ovejero-Merino Enrique , Mendoza-Moreno Fernando , Hernández-Juara Pilar , López-Ramos María Esther , Noguerales-Fraguas Fernando
Published: August 2019

Septic thrombosis of the internal jugular vein is a possible complication related to central venous catheters. The enlargement of the diameter of the jugular vein can stimulate phrenic nerve causing hiccups and, septic thrombus can metastasize to different organs threating patient’s life. Diagnosis of septic thrombosis of internal jugular vein should be confirmed with a cervicothoracic CT-scan. Its management consists of catheter’s removal, antibiotic treatment and anticoagulation in high-risk patients. Surgical intervention might be considered if conservative treatment fails.
China's lunar and deep space exploration: touching the moon and exploring the universe
Authors: Zhao Weijie , Wang Chi
Published: August 2019

The Chinese lunar probe Chang'e-4 (CE-4) landed in the Von Kármán crater within the South Pole–Aitken (SPA) basin on the far-side of the Moon on 3 January 2019. Following this, the moon rover Yutu-2 separated from the CE-4 lander and started its travels and exploration on the far-side of the Moon. Before this landing, humans had remotely observed the far-side of the Moon with lunar satellites. However, it was the first time that a man-made spacecraft had landed there and actually left behind wheel prints belonging to humanity.

Since China's Lunar Exploration Project (CLEP), or Chang'e Project, started in 2004, China has accomplished the first two steps of its three-step plan of ‘Orbiting, Landing and Returning’. CE-3 and CE-4 landed successfully on the near-side and far-side of the Moon, respectively. In the near future, CE-5 will land again on the near-side of the Moon and take lunar rock and soil samples back to Earth, thus completing the three-step plan of CLEP. In April 2019, National Science Review (NSR) interviewed three key figures of CLEP: CLEP Chief Engineer Weiren Wu (), the first CLEP Chief Scientist and CLEP senior consultant Ziyuan Ouyang (), and CLEP third phase Vice-Chief Engineer, CE-4 Ground Research and Application System Director Chunlai Li (). They talked about the scientific expectations and future plans of China's lunar and deep space exploration.
Surgical Anatomy of Vertical Perithalamic Hemispherotomy
Authors: Dorfer Christian , Khalaveh Farjad , Dorfmüller Georg , Czech Thomas
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Vertical perithalamic hemispherotomy was introduced by Olivier Delalande in 1992 as an alternative concept of functional hemispherectomy.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a step-by-step illustration of the surgical anatomy of this procedure.

METHODS

The descriptions in this manuscript are based on an experience of 52 hemispherotomies performed with the same technique by a single surgeon.

RESULTS

Our illustrations of the surgical anatomy and the descriptions of the surgical nuances facilitate a deep understanding for the surgical concept of Delalande's vertical hemispherotomy technique. They highlight the advantages (ie, reduced risk of inadvertent damage to the contralateral hemisphere and a clear orientation by defined anatomical landmarks) over the recently suggested modifications to this original technique.

CONCLUSION

Olivier Delalande's original technique remains the most appealing concept of vertical hemispherotomy to us.
Performing Scrutiny along the Committee Corridor of the UK House of Commons
Authors: Geddes Marc
Published: August 2019

In what ways do practices, relationships and interpretations of scrutiny affect accountability relationships in legislatures? This article examines this question through a detailed study of select committees in the UK House of Commons. Drawing on a number of qualitative methods, this article argues that we can understand accountability in the House of Commons more effectively if we examine the underlying beliefs and practices about scrutiny by MPs and parliamentary officials. This article makes an important contribution in helping scholars to better understand how committees behave and from where they derive their authority. These affect the priorities of committee-based accountability, the style and focus of committee hearings, and the ability of committees to build consensus, with wider implications for the study of accountability.
Human Abuse Potential of Oral NKTR-181 in Recreational Opioid Users: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Study
Authors: Ge Xue , Henningfield Jack E , Siddhanti Suresh , Jobes Janet , Lu Lin , Xie Sunny , Ziola Margaret , Kelsh Debra , Vince Bradley , Di Fonzo Carlo J , Tagliaferri Mary , Zalevsky Jonathan , Doberstein Stephen K , Hoch Ute , Eldon Michael A
Published: August 2019

Objective

To evaluate the human abuse potential, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of oral NKTR-181 (oxycodegol), a novel full mu-opioid receptor agonist, relative to oral oxycodone.

Design

This double-blind, randomized, single-dose, crossover human abuse potential study was conducted in healthy, adult, non–physically dependent recreational opioid users.

Setting

Inpatient clinical research site.

Subjects

Seventy-one subjects randomized (95.7% male, 65.2% African American, mean age = 31.7 years).

Methods

The primary objective was to compare two therapeutic doses of NKTR-181 (400 and 600 mg) with 40 and 60 mg of oxycodone and a supratherapeutic dose (1200 mg) of NKTR-181 with 60 mg of oxycodone using visual analog scale (VAS) ratings for Drug Liking “at this moment” (Drug Liking). Secondary objectives included VAS ratings for other subjective measures, and central nervous system (CNS) mu-opioid effects were assessed using pupillometry. Each subject received single oral doses of five treatments and matching placebo.

Results

Compared with 40 and 60 mg of oxycodone, the maximum mean Drug Liking score at 400 and 600 mg NKTR-181 was significantly lower, and the rate of onset and extent of Drug Liking for all NKTR-181 doses in the first two hours postdose were also significantly lower. Delayed attenuated Drug Liking and pupillary miosis response following administration of NKTR-181 vs oxycodone were consistent with slower NKTR-181 CNS entry kinetics and mu-opioid receptor binding. No adverse events were rated as severe, and somnolence and dizziness occurred more frequently when subjects received oxycodone.

Conclusions

NKTR-181 at oral doses of 400 and 600 mg showed significantly fewer and less severe subjective effects accepted as representative of opioid abuse potential, such as lower peak Drug Liking in recreational opioid users, than 40 and 60 mg of oxycodone.
Black hole thermodynamics under the generalized uncertainty principle and doubly special relativity
Authors: Maghsoodi E , Hassanabadi H , Sang Chung Won
Published: August 2019

We investigate the effect of the generalized uncertainty principle on the thermodynamic properties of the topological charged black hole in anti-de Sitter space within the framework of doubly special relativity. Our study is based on a heuristic analysis of a particle which is captured by the black hole. We obtain some thermodynamic properties of the black hole including temperature, entropy, and heat capacity in the spherical horizon case.
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure during nocturnal hot flashes associated with and without awakenings
Authors: Baker Fiona C , Forouzanfar Mohamad , Goldstone Aimée , Claudatos Stephanie A , Javitz Harold , Trinder John , de Zambotti Massimiliano
Published: August 2019

Hot flashes (HFs) are a hallmark of menopause in midlife women. They are beyond bothersome symptoms, having a profound impact on quality of life and wellbeing, and are a potential marker of cardiovascular (CV) disease risk. Here, we investigated the impact on CV functioning of single nocturnal HFs, considering whether or not they were accompanied by arousals or awakenings. We investigated changes in heart rate (HR, 542 HFs), blood pressure (BP, 261 HFs), and pre-ejection period (PEP, 168 HFs) across individual nocturnal physiological HF events in women in the menopausal transition or post-menopause (age: 50.7 ± 3.6 years) (n = 86 for HR, 45 for BP, 27 for PEP). HFs associated with arousals/awakenings (51.1%), were accompanied by an increase in systolic (SBP; ~6 mmHg) and diastolic (DBP; ~5 mmHg) BP and HR (~20% increase), sustained for several minutes. In contrast, HFs occurring in undisturbed sleep (28.6%) were accompanied by a drop in SBP and a marginal increase in HR, likely components of the heat dissipation response. All HFs were accompanied by decreased PEP, suggesting increased cardiac sympathetic activity, with a prolonged increase for HFs associated with sleep disruption. Older age predicted greater likelihood of HF-related sleep disturbance. HFs were less likely to wake a woman in rapid-eye-movement and slow-wave sleep. Findings show that HFs associated with sleep disruption, which are in the majority and more likely in older women, lead to increases in HR and BP, which could have long-term impact on nocturnal CV restoration in women with multiple HFs.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum Associated with Sunitinib: A Case Report
Authors: Sevimli Dikicier Bahar
Published: August 2019

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is an inflammatory neutrophilic dermatosis that presents with painful, sterile ulcers. Drug-induced PG is a rare condition; propylthiouracil, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and sunitinib are drugs that have been implicated to date. This article presents a case of PG associated with sunitinib.
CE: HIV Update: An Epidemic Transformed
Authors: Kwong Jeffrey
Published: August 2019

The field of HIV treatment and prevention has evolved rapidly over the past four decades. New therapies that are more potent and streamlined have transformed HIV into a chronic disease, while the use of such preventive strategies as preexposure prophylaxis and postexposure prophylaxis provide effective options for reducing the risk of HIV infection. These medical breakthroughs have enabled more people living with HIV (PLWH) to reach older adulthood. But they also mean that nurses are seeing more PLWH who have developed long-term complications of living with HIV or of exposure to antiretroviral therapy, as well as concurrent chronic conditions associated with advanced age. Nurses play a critical role in caring for PLWH and those at risk for HIV infection. This article discusses HIV epidemiology, describes the current state of HIV treatment and prevention, and highlights common comorbidities often seen in PLWH who are over age 50.