bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatics analysis of the Hub genes and key pathways of interstitial cystitis pathogenesis
Authors: Liu Junjiang , Zhang Yunxia , Li Shoubin , Sun Fuzhen , Wang Gang , Wei Dong , Yang Tao , Gu Shouyi
Published: October 2019

Aims

This study aimed to identify suitable datasets for reanalysis and then explore potential key genes and related pathways of interstitial cystitis (IC).

Methods

We searched the Gene Expression Omnibus database and three expression profile datasets and included 23 lesions of IC and 9 normal tissues in the analysis. Eight urine specimens of patients with IC and five urine specimens of healthy controls were also included. Then, these datasets were reanalyzed to determine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were used to perform Gene Ontology and pathway enrichment analyses. These identified candidate genes were also applied to generate a protein‐protein interaction (PPI) network.

Results

Forty‐two common DEGs were sorted and identified from two datasets, both of which included the samples of bladder lesions. Based on their functions and signaling pathways, these 42 DEGs are mainly classified as cell‐surface proteins and are involved in the immune and inflammatory responses. The PPI network included 41 nodes. In this network, we identified 11 genes as central nodes that are involved in the immune system and the inflammatory response. Furthermore, IC with Hunner's lesions shared the same DEGs with IC without Hunner's lesions. In both subgroups (IC with and without Hunner's lesions), we identified some common DEGs shared between bladder lesions and urine samples.

Conclusion

Using bioinformatics, we integrated different IC‐related datasets and identified potential critical genes involved in IC that may contribute to future research on IC.
Responsiveness of lumbosacral superficial dorsal horn neurons during the voiding reflex and functional loss of spinal urethral‐responsive neurons in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Nakagawa Tatsuki , Akimoto Nozomi , Hakozaki Atsushi , Noma Takahisa , Nakamura Ayumi , Hayashi Yukio , Sasaki Eiji , Ozaki Noriyuki , Furue Hidemasa
Published: October 2019

Aims

Sensory information from the lower urinary tract (LUT) is conveyed to the spinal cord to trigger and co‐ordinate micturition. However, it is not fully understood how spinal dorsal horn neurons are excited during the voiding reflex. In this study, we developed an in vivo technique allowing recording of superficial dorsal horn (SDH) neurons concurrent with intravesical pressure (IVP) during the micturition cycle in both normal and diabetic rats.

Methods

Lumbosacral dorsal horn neuronal activity and IVP were recorded from urethane‐anesthetized naive and streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats. Saline was continuously perfused into the urinary bladder through a cannula to induce micturition.

Results

We classified SDH neurons into bladder‐ and urethral‐responsive neurons, based on their responsiveness during the voiding reflex. Bladder‐responsive SDH neurons responded to the rapid increase in IVP at the start of voiding. In contrast, urethral‐responsive SDH neuronal firing increased at the peak IVP and their firing lasted during the voiding phase (the high‐frequency oscillations). Urethral‐responsive SDH neurons were more sensitive to capsaicin, received C afferent fiber inputs, and were rarely detected in STZ‐diabetes rats. Administration of a cyclohexenoic long‐chain fatty alcohol (TAC‐302), which is reported to promote neurite outgrowth of peripheral nerves in STZ‐diabetic rats, prevented the functional loss of spinal urethral response.

Conclusions

Sensory information from the bladder and urethra is conveyed separately to different groups of SDH neurons. Functional loss of spinal urethral sensory information through unmyelinated C afferent fibers may contribute to diabetic bladder dysfunction.
pH‐Controlled network formation in a mixture of oppositely charged cellulose nanocrystals and poly(allylamine)
Authors: Martin Patrick , Vasilyev Gleb , Chu Guang , Boas Mor , Arinstein Arkadii , Zussman Eyal
Published: October 2019

The behavior of a mixture of negatively charged cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and positively charged poly(allylamine) (PAAm) is examined in aqueous media. By modulating the pH, the acting Coulomb forces can be varied that can lead not only to adsorption of PAAm chains on the CNC surface but also to the development of a supermolecular structure by bridging of CNC rods by extended PAAm chains. This bridging can result in the formation of CNC clusters, which was demonstrated experimentally. Light scattering and rheological studies showed that these clusters begin to grow and merge, ultimately forming a global percolated network above a critical degree of PAAm ionization. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2019, 57, 1527–1536
The effectiveness of distance‐based interventions for smoking cessation and alcohol moderation among cancer survivors: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Mujcic Ajla , Blankers Matthijs , Bommelé Jeroen , Boon Brigitte , Berman Anne H. , Verdonck‐de Leeuw Irma M. , van Laar Margriet , Engels Rutger
Published: October 2019

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate current evidence for the effectiveness of distance‐based interventions to support smoking cessation (SC) or alcohol moderation (AM) among cancer survivors. Secondary, differences in effectiveness are explored regarding multibehaviour interventions versus single‐behaviour interventions targeting SC or AM only.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was conducted. Intervention studies with and without control groups and randomized controlled trials were included. Random effects meta‐analyses were conducted for the main outcomes: SC and AM rates at the follow‐up closest to 6 months. Using subgroup analyses and meta‐regression, effectiveness of single‐behaviour versus multibehaviour interventions was evaluated.

Results

A total of 17 studies with 3796 participants; nine studies on SC only, eight studies on multibehaviour interventions including an SC or AM module, and no studies on AM only were included. All studies had at least some concerns regarding bias. Distance‐based SC interventions led to higher cessation rates than control conditions (10 studies, odds ratio [OR] = 1.56; 95% CI, 1.13‐2.15, P = .007). Single‐behaviour SC interventions reduced smoking rates compared with baseline (risk difference [RD] = 0.29; 95% CI, 0.19‐0.39, P < .0001), but multibehaviour interventions did not (RD = 0.13; 95% CI, −0.05 to 0.31, P = 0.15). There was insufficient evidence that distance‐based multibehaviour interventions reduced alcohol use compared with controls (three studies, standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.12; 95% CI, −0.08 to 0.31, P = .24).

Conclusions

Distance‐based SC interventions are effective in supporting SC among cancer survivors. Single‐behaviour SC interventions appear more effective than multibehaviour interventions. No evidence was found for the effectiveness of distance‐based AM interventions for cancer survivors.
Depressive symptoms, neuroticism, and participation in breast and cervical cancer screening: Cross‐sectional and prospective evidence from UK Biobank
Authors: Niedzwiedz Claire L. , Robb Kathryn A. , Katikireddi Srinivasa Vittal , Pell Jill P. , Smith Daniel J.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To assess the cross‐sectional and prospective associations between depressive symptoms, neuroticism, and participation in breast and cervical screening in the UK.

Methods

Women in the UK Biobank cohort with complete data who were eligible for breast cancer screening (aged 50‐70 years, N = 143 461) and/or cervical screening (<65 years, N = 141 753) at baseline recruitment (2006‐2010) and those with follow‐up data (2014‐2019) were identified (N = 11 050 and N = 9780 for breast and cervical screening). Depressive symptoms and neuroticism were self‐reported at baseline (range 0‐12 with higher scores reflecting greater severity). Primary outcomes were reporting being up to date with breast and cervical screening. For prospective analyses, patterns of screening participation from baseline to follow‐up were identified. Logistic regression was used to analyse associations, adjusted for potential confounding factors.

Results

More severe depressive symptoms were associated with reduced likelihood of breast (OR = 0.960, 95% CI: 0.950,0.970) and cervical (OR = 0.958, 95% CI: 0.950,0.966) screening participation, in cross‐sectional analyses. Higher neuroticism scores were associated with reduced cervical screening participation, but the opposite was found for breast cancer screening. Examination of individual neuroticism items revealed that anxiety and worry were associated with increased breast screening. At follow‐up, higher baseline depressive symptoms were related to decreased cervical screening (OR = 0.955, 95% CI: 0.913,0.999), but not with breast screening.

Conclusions

More severe depressive symptoms may be a barrier for breast and cervical screening and could be an indicator for more proactive strategies to improve uptake.
Identification of CFTR variants in Latino patients with cystic fibrosis from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico
Authors: Zeiger Andrew M. , McGarry Meghan E. , Mak Angel C. Y. , Medina Vivian , Salazar Sandra , Eng Celeste , Liu Amy K. , Oh Sam S. , Nuckton Thomas J. , Jain Deepti , Blackwell Thomas W. , Kang Hyun Min , Abecasis Goncalo , Oñate Leandra Cordero , Seibold Max A. , Burchard Esteban G. , Rodriguez‐Santana Jose
Published: October 2019

Background

In cystic fibrosis (CF), the spectrum and frequency of CFTR variants differ by geography and race/ethnicity. CFTR variants in White patients are well‐described compared with Latino patients. No studies of CFTR variants have been done in patients with CF in the Dominican Republic or Puerto Rico.

Methods

CFTR was sequenced in 61 Dominican Republican patients and 21 Puerto Rican patients with CF and greater than ​​​​60 mmol/L sweat chloride. The spectrum of CFTR variants was identified and the proportion of patients with 0, 1, or 2 CFTR variants identified was determined. The functional effects of identified CFTR variants were investigated using clinical annotation databases and computational prediction tools.

Results

Our study found 10% of Dominican patients had two CFTR variants identified compared with 81% of Puerto Rican patients. No CFTR variants were identified in 69% of Dominican patients and 10% of Puerto Rican patients. In Dominican patients, there were 19 identified CFTR variants, accounting for 25 out of 122 disease alleles (20%). In Puerto Rican patients, there were 16 identified CFTR variants, accounting for 36 out of 42 disease alleles (86%) in Puerto Rican patients. Thirty CFTR variants were identified overall. The most frequent variants for Dominican patients were p.Phe508del and p.Ala559Thr and for Puerto Rican patients were p.Phe508del, p.Arg1066Cys, p.Arg334Trp, and p.I507del.

Conclusions

In this first description of the CFTR variants in patients with CF from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, there was a low detection rate of two CFTR variants after full sequencing with the majority of patients from the Dominican Republic without identified variants.
Chemical Vapor Deposition of Boron‐Incorporated Graphitic Carbon Nitride Film for Carbon‐Based Wide Bandgap Semiconductor Materials
Authors: Urakami Noriyuki , Kosaka Maito , Hashimoto Yoshio
Published: October 2019

This article discusses the growth of B atoms incorporated into the graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) thin films on c‐plane sapphire substrates at various growth temperatures by thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using melamine and ammonia borane as precursors. The B incorporation is achieved at a growth temperature of 618 °C, which is slightly higher than the optimal growth temperature of g‐C3N4 thin films. The signal peak for the B 1s core level attributed to B—N bonds is observed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, indicating the realization of B incorporation into g‐C3N4 films. With an increase in the growth temperature up to 650 °C, a monotonically increasing B composition and a decreasing C composition are observed, implying that B atoms are incorporated into g‐C3N4 by the substitution into C sites. A shift of photoluminescene (PL) peak energy is observed. The PL peak shifts from 2.75 eV for unintentionally doped thin film to 3.60 eV for B‐incorporated thin films with a composition of 8.0%. The B composition dependence of PL peak energies is in good agreement with the quadratic function, suggesting that the bandgap bowing occurs due to B incorporation into the g‐C3N4 thin films as in conventional compound semiconductor alloys.
Control charts for traffic intensity monitoring of Markovian multiserver queues
Authors: Cruz Frederico R. B. , Quinino Roberto C. , Ho Linda L.
Published: October 2019

A number of recent research studies have applied queueing theory as an approximate modeling tool to mathematically describe industrial systems, which include manufacturing, distribution, and service, for instance. Among the main observable characteristics in queues, the number of users in the system can be controlled to keep waiting times as minimal as possible. The design of efficient control charts is an attempt to monitor and control such systems. Control charts are proposed to monitor infinite queues with Markovian arrivals, exponential service times, and s identical parallel servers. The proposed charts monitor traffic intensities, which are the ratio between the arrival rate and the service rate, estimated through the number of users in the queueing system at random epochs. The effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed approaches in terms of the average run lengths are established by a comprehensive set of Monte Carlo simulations.
Emerging Delivery Strategies of Carbon Monoxide for Therapeutic Applications: from CO Gas to CO Releasing Nanomaterials
Authors: Yan Haili , Du Jiangfeng , Zhu Shuang , Nie Guangjun , Zhang Hui , Gu Zhanjun , Zhao Yuliang
Published: October 2019

Carbon monoxide (CO) therapy has emerged as a hot topic under exploration in the field of gas therapy as it shows the promise of treating various diseases. Due to the gaseous property and the high affinity for human hemoglobin, the main challenges of administrating medicinal CO are the lack of target selectivity as well as the toxic profile at relatively high concentrations. Although abundant CO releasing molecules (CORMs) with the capacity to deliver CO in biological systems have been developed, several disadvantages related to CORMs, including random diffusion, poor solubility, potential toxicity, and lack of on‐demand CO release in deep tissue, still confine their practical use. Recently, the advent of versatile nanomedicine has provided a promising chance for improving the properties of naked CORMs and simultaneously realizing the therapeutic applications of CO. This review presents a brief summarization of the emerging delivery strategies of CO based on nanomaterials for therapeutic application. First, an introduction covering the therapeutic roles of CO and several frequently used CORMs is provided. Then, recent advancements in the synthesis and application of versatile CO releasing nanomaterials are elaborated. Finally, the current challenges and future directions of these important delivery strategies are proposed.
A network perspective on assessing system architectures: Foundations and challenges
Authors: Potts Matthew W. , Sartor Pia , Johnson Angus , Bullock Seth
Published: October 2019

Organizations are increasingly faced with the challenge of architecting complex systems that must operate within a System of Systems context. While network science has offered usefully clear insights into product and system architectures, we seek to extend these approaches to evaluate enterprise system architectures. Here, we explore the application of graph‐theoretic methods to the analysis of two real‐world enterprise architectures (a military communications system and a search and rescue system) and to assess the relative importance of different architecture components. For both architectures, different topological measures of component significance identify differing network vertices as important. From this, we identify several significant challenges a system architect needs to be cognisant of when employing graph‐theoretic approaches to evaluate architectures; finding suitable abstractions of heterogeneous architectural elements and distinguishing between network‐structural properties and system‐functional properties. These challenges are summarized as five guiding principles for utilizing network science concepts for enterprise architecture evaluation.
Soft and persistent—The influence of sand‐flooring and calves on the resting behavior of a zoo‐kept African elephant (Loxodonta africana) group
Authors: Schiffmann Christian , Hård Therese , Hjelm Madeleine , Clauss Marcus
Published: October 2019

Caring for all aspects of zoo elephants’ well‐being is considered a major challenge. Providing an appropriate flooring substrate to facilitate lying rest presents a meaningful part of a holistic management concept. Investigating the impact of a new sand flooring on the nocturnal resting behavior of a breeding group of seven African elephants living at one zoo revealed more total lying rest, longer bouts of lying rest and a reduced side preference in the adult females. With an average total daily lying rest of about 1.5–2.0 hrs, the investigated zoo elephants expressed longer lying rest compared to recently reported data from free‐ranging individuals in Botswana. In addition, the presence of nursing calves in the observed elephant group seemed to impact the resting pattern of all group members, with around 60% of all lying bouts being discontinued after interruption by the youngsters. With respect to observed nursing during leaning rest, we encourage the installation of appropriate horizontal structures in breeding facilities to support leaning rest behavior of their female elephants. In doing so, zoos may improve rest quality of nursing females, and, in general, the welfare aspect of sleep for their elephants.
Higher frequency of osteoarthritis in patients with ACL graft rupture than in those with intact ACL grafts 30 years after reconstruction
Authors: Söderman Tomas , Wretling Marie-Louise , Hänni Mari , Mikkelsen Christina , Johnson Robert J. , Werner Suzanne , Sundin Anders , Shalabi Adel
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The aim was to assess the results of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction regarding graft failure, knee laxity, and osteoarthritis (OA) from a longterm perspective. It was hypothesized that intact ACL graft reduces the risk for increased OA development.

Methods

The cohort comprised 60 patients with a median follow-up 31 (range 28–33) years after ACL reconstruction. They were evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging, radiography, KT-1000 arthrometer and the pivot shift test.

Results

Out of the 60 patients, 30 (50%) showed an intact ACL graft and 30 (50%) a ruptured or absent ACL graft. Patients with ruptured ACL grafts had more medial tibiofemoral compartment OA than those with an intact ACL graft (p = 0.0003). OA was asymmetric in patients with ruptured ACL grafts with more OA in the medial than in the lateral tibiofemoral compartment (p = 0.013) and the patellofemoral compartment (p = 0.002). The distribution of OA between compartments was similar in patients with an intact ACL graft. KT-1000 values of anterior knee laxity were higher in patients with ruptured compared to those with intact ACL grafts (p = 0.012). Side-to-side comparisons of anterior knee laxity showed higher KT-1000 values in patients with ruptured ACL graft (p = 0.0003) and similar results in those with intact graft (p = 0.09). The pivot shift grade was higher in the group with a ruptured ACL graft (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Median 31 (range 28–33) years after ACL reconstruction, 50% of the patients showed an intact ACL graft and no side-to-side difference regarding anterior knee laxity. Patients with ruptured ACL grafts had more OA of the medial tibiofemoral compartment than those with intact ACL grafts.

Level of evidence

Retrospective cohort study, Level III.
Partially-honest Nash implementation: a full characterization
Authors: Lombardi Michele , Yoshihara Naoki
Published: October 2019

A partially-honest individual is a person who follows the maxim, “Do not lie if you do not have to”, to serve your material interest. By assuming that the mechanism designer knows that there is at least one partially-honest individual in a society of $$ n\ge 3$$

n
≥
3

individuals, a social choice rule that can be Nash implemented is termed partially-honestly Nash implementable. The paper offers a complete characterization of the (unanimous) social choice rules that are partially-honestly Nash implementable. When all individuals are partially-honest, then any (unanimous) rule is partially-honestly Nash implementable. An account of the welfare implications of partially-honest Nash implementation is provided in a variety of environments.
Kidney-based in vitro models for drug-induced toxicity testing
Authors: Faria João , Ahmed Sabbir , Gerritsen Karin G. F. , Mihaila Silvia M. , Masereeuw Rosalinde
Published: October 2019

The kidney is frequently involved in adverse effects caused by exposure to foreign compounds, including drugs. An early prediction of those effects is crucial for allowing novel, safe drugs entering the market. Yet, in current pharmacotherapy, drug-induced nephrotoxicity accounts for up to 25% of the reported serious adverse effects, of which one-third is attributed to antimicrobials use. Adverse drug effects can be due to direct toxicity, for instance as a result of kidney-specific determinants, or indirectly by, e.g., vascular effects or crystals deposition. Currently used in vitro assays do not adequately predict in vivo observed effects, predominantly due to an inadequate preservation of the organs’ microenvironment in the models applied. The kidney is highly complex, composed of a filter unit and a tubular segment, together containing over 20 different cell types. The tubular epithelium is highly polarized, and the maintenance of this polarity is critical for optimal functioning and response to environmental signals. Cell polarity is dependent on communication between cells, which includes paracrine and autocrine signals, as well as biomechanic and chemotactic processes. These processes all influence kidney cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. For drug disposition studies, this microenvironment is essential for prediction of toxic responses. This review provides an overview of drug-induced injuries to the kidney, details on relevant and translational biomarkers, and advances in 3D cultures of human renal cells, including organoids and kidney-on-a-chip platforms.
Cost Analysis of Enhanced Recovery Programs in Colorectal, Pancreatic, and Hepatic Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Joliat Gaëtan‐Romain , Hübner Martin , Roulin Didier , Demartines Nicolas
Published: October 2019

Background

Enhanced recovery programs (ERPs) have been shown to improve postoperative outcomes after abdominal surgery. This study aimed to review the current literature to assess if ERPs in colorectal, pancreas, and liver surgery induce cost savings.

Methods

A systematic review was performed including prospective and retrospective studies comparing conventional management versus ERP in terms of costs. All kinds of ERP were considered (fast‐track, ERAS®, or home‐made protocols). Studies with no mention of a clear protocol and no reporting of protocol compliance were excluded.

Results

Thirty‐seven articles out of 144 identified records were scrutinized as full articles. Final analysis included 16 studies. In colorectal surgery, two studies were prospective (1 randomized controlled trial, RCT) and six retrospective, totaling 1277 non‐ERP patients and 2078 ERP patients. Three of the eight studies showed no difference in cost savings between the two groups. The meta‐analysis found a mean cost reduction of USD3010 (95% CI: 5370–650, p = 0.01) in favor of ERP. Among the five included studies in pancreas surgery (all retrospective, 552 non‐ERP vs. 348 ERP patients), the mean cost reduction in favor of the ERP group was USD7020 (95% CI: 11,600–2430, p = 0.003). In liver surgery, only three studies (two retrospective and 1 RCT, 180 non‐ERP vs. 197 ERP patients) were found, which precluded a sound cost analysis.

Conclusions

The present systematic review suggests that ERPs in colorectal and pancreas surgery are associated with cost savings compared to conventional perioperative management. Cost data in liver surgery are scarce.
Factors Associated with Mortality and Amputation Caused by Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections of the Upper Extremity: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Nawijn Femke , Verhiel Svenna H.W.L. , Lunn Kiera N. , Eberlin Kyle R. , Hietbrink Falco , Chen Neal C.
Published: October 2019

Background

It is unclear what the exact short‐term outcomes of necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTIs), also known and necrotizing fasciitis of the upper extremity, are and whether these are comparable to other anatomical regions. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess factors associated with mortality within 30‐days and amputation in patients with upper extremity NSTIs.

Methods

A retrospective study over a 20‐year time period of all patients treated for NSTIs of the upper extremity was carried out. The primary outcomes were the 30‐day mortality rate and the amputation rate in patients admitted to the hospital for upper extremity NSTIs.

Results

Within 20 years, 122 patients with NSTIs of the upper extremity were identified. Thirteen patients (11%) died and 17 patients (14%) underwent amputation. Independent risk factors for mortality were an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) classification of 3 or higher (OR 9.26, 95% CI 1.64–52.31) and a base deficit of 3 meq/L or greater (OR 10.53, 95% CI 1.14–96.98). The independent risk factor for amputation was a NSTI of the non‐dominant arm (OR 3.78, 95% CI 1.07–13.35). Length of hospital stay was 15 (IQR 9–21) days.

Conclusion

Upper extremity NSTIs have a relatively low mortality rate, but a relatively high amputation rate compared to studies assessing NSTIs of all anatomical regions. ASA classification and base deficit at admission predict the prognosis of patients with upper extremity NSTIs, while a NSTI of the non‐dominant side is a risk factor for limb loss.
Automated multiparametric localization of prostate cancer based on B-mode, shear-wave elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound radiomics
Authors: Wildeboer Rogier R. , Mannaerts Christophe K. , van Sloun Ruud J. G. , Budäus Lars , Tilki Derya , Wijkstra Hessel , Salomon Georg , Mischi Massimo
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the potential of machine learning based on B-mode, shear-wave elastography (SWE), and dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (DCE-US) radiomics for the localization of prostate cancer (PCa) lesions using transrectal ultrasound.

Methods

This study was approved by the institutional review board and comprised 50 men with biopsy-confirmed PCa that were referred for radical prostatectomy. Prior to surgery, patients received transrectal ultrasound (TRUS), SWE, and DCE-US for three imaging planes. The images were automatically segmented and registered. First, model-based features related to contrast perfusion and dispersion were extracted from the DCE-US videos. Subsequently, radiomics were retrieved from all modalities. Machine learning was applied through a random forest classification algorithm, using the co-registered histopathology from the radical prostatectomy specimens as a reference to draw benign and malignant regions of interest. To avoid overfitting, the performance of the multiparametric classifier was assessed through leave-one-patient-out cross-validation.

Results

The multiparametric classifier reached a region-wise area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC-AUC) of 0.75 and 0.90 for PCa and Gleason > 3 + 4 significant PCa, respectively, thereby outperforming the best-performing single parameter (i.e., contrast velocity) yielding ROC-AUCs of 0.69 and 0.76, respectively. Machine learning revealed that combinations between perfusion-, dispersion-, and elasticity-related features were favored.

Conclusions

In this paper, technical feasibility of multiparametric machine learning to improve upon single US modalities for the localization of PCa has been demonstrated. Extended datasets for training and testing may establish the clinical value of automatic multiparametric US classification in the early diagnosis of PCa.

Key Points

• Combination of B-mode ultrasound, shear-wave elastography, and contrast ultrasound radiomics through machine learning is technically feasible.

• Multiparametric ultrasound demonstrated a higher prostate cancer localization ability than single ultrasound modalities.

• Computer-aided multiparametric ultrasound could help clinicians in biopsy targeting.
Mobile visualization of density fields using smartphone background-oriented schlieren
Authors: Hayasaka Keisuke , Tagawa Yoshiyuki
Published: October 2019

The conventional background-oriented schlieren (BOS) technique is an image-based technique that can calculate the density field in fluids using two static images [i.e., an undistorted background image (reference image) and a distorted background image due to the density change in fluids (target image)]. This paper proposes the smartphone BOS (SBOS) technique, which offers the measurement of the density gradient using the high-speed imaging feature of the smartphone being carried with a moving observer. The conventional BOS with a fixed camera visualizes the density gradient by comparing the reference image and the target image. In contrast, SBOS can obtain the time difference of the density gradient field. A reference image in SBOS is a target one at a previous time step. The movement of the smartphone is canceled using a registration technique for image accurate alignment. Three demonstrations are conducted to perform SBOS. First, in a static situation, the density field of heated air by a gas burner is visualized by comparing between SBOS and conventional BOS. Second, the local displacement of density field and the error displacement is estimated quantitatively when the smartphone is moving. Third, SBOS using an embossed wallpaper to visualize the density field is performed in the mobile condition. These achievements suggest that SBOS is an effective system to visualize the density field using only the smartphone, and is expected to be a useful tool such as a preliminary experiment in the laboratory and a teaching tool for general smartphone users.
Vascular complications in pediatric craniopharyngioma patients: a case-based update
Authors: Sandvik Ulrika , Ohlsson Marcus , Edström Erik
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Craniopharyngiomas remain a challenging entity for neurosurgeons because of their deep-seated, midline location, and intimate relationship with critical neurovascular structures. With high long-term survival rates, patients with craniopharyngioma are likely to experience significant late morbidity related to both disease and therapy.

Method and results

In this paper, we present two cases of late vascular complications after multi-modal treatment of craniopharyngioma.

Conclusion

Available data suggests that pediatric patients with craniopharyngioma represent a particularly vulnerable group.
“Smoking paradox” is not true in patients with ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Bo , Li Dan , Liu Jing-Feng , Wang Lin , Li Bao-Zhu , Yan Xiu-Juan , Liu Wei , Wu Kun , Xiang Ruo-Lan
Published: October 2019

Background

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a common cause of death from vascular diseases. Studies have found that smoking increases the risk of ischemic stroke, but the association of smoking with the outcome of IS remains unclear. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the effect of smoking on the prognosis of IS.

Methods

We searched four electronic databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane library and Web of science for papers, published before January 2019. In this meta-analysis, Review Manager 5.3 software was used to calculate for the pooled estimate effect, as well as the inverse-variance method for pooled mean difference (MD) and odds ratio (OR) of incidence in two groups of population.

Results

A total of 14,789 citations were identified during the literature search, 21 studies were included in the meta-analyses after screening. The full-adjusted OR of poor prognostic outcome in smoking and nonsmoking patients with stroke was pooled as 0.96 (95% CI 0.77–1.21), suggested that smoking or not has no impact on prognosis of IS. The pooled MD of onset age between smoking and nonsmoking IS patients was − 10.05 (− 12.91, − 7.19), indicated that smoking causes first onset of IS to occur 10 years earlier.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis showed that smoking was not a protective factor for poor prognosis of IS. Smoking patients with IS are 10 years younger than nonsmoking patients at time of the first onset of stroke.
Population fluctuations and spatial synchrony in an arboreal rodent
Authors: Selonen Vesa , Remm Jaanus , Hanski Ilpo K. , Henttonen Heikki , Huitu Otso , Jokinen Maarit , Korpimäki Erkki , Mäkelä Antero , Sulkava Risto , Wistbacka Ralf
Published: October 2019

Climatic conditions, trophic links between species and dispersal may induce spatial synchrony in population fluctuations. Spatial synchrony increases the extinction risk of populations and, thus, it is important to understand how synchrony-inducing mechanisms affect populations already threatened by habitat loss and climate change. For many species, it is unclear how population fluctuations vary over time and space, and what factors potentially drive this variation. In this study, we focus on factors determining population fluctuations and spatial synchrony in the Siberian flying squirrel, Pteromys volans, using long-term monitoring data from 16 Finnish populations located 2–400 km apart. We found an indication of synchronous population dynamics on a large scale in flying squirrels. However, the synchrony was not found to be clearly related to distance between study sites because the populations seemed to be strongly affected by small-scale local factors. The regularity of population fluctuations varied over time. The fluctuations were linked to changes in winter precipitation, which has previously been linked to the reproductive success of flying squirrels. Food abundance (tree mast) and predator abundance were not related to population fluctuations in this study. We conclude that spatial synchrony was not unequivocally related to distance in flying squirrels, as has been observed in earlier studies for more abundant rodent species. Our study also emphasises the role of climate in population fluctuations and the synchrony of the species.
A Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD) approach to crack propagation in brittle materials: with application to random field material properties
Authors: Garikapati Hasini , Zlotnik Sergio , Díez Pedro , Verhoosel Clemens V. , van Brummelen E. Harald
Published: October 2019

Understanding the failure of brittle heterogeneous materials is essential in many applications. Heterogeneities in material properties are frequently modeled through random fields, which typically induces the need to solve finite element problems for a large number of realizations. In this context, we make use of reduced order modeling to solve these problems at an affordable computational cost. This paper proposes a reduced order modeling framework to predict crack propagation in brittle materials with random heterogeneities. The framework is based on a combination of the Proper Generalized Decomposition (PGD) method with Griffith’s global energy criterion. The PGD framework provides an explicit parametric solution for the physical response of the system. We illustrate that a non-intrusive sampling-based technique can be applied as a post-processing operation on the explicit solution provided by PGD. We first validate the framework using a global energy approach on a deterministic two-dimensional linear elastic fracture mechanics benchmark. Subsequently, we apply the reduced order modeling approach to a stochastic fracture propagation problem.
Bartter and Gitelman syndromes: Questions of class
Authors: Besouw Martine T. P. , Kleta Robert , Bockenhauer Detlef
Published: October 2019

Bartter and Gitelman syndromes are rare inherited tubulopathies characterized by hypokalaemic, hypochloraemic metabolic alkalosis. They are caused by mutations in at least 7 genes involved in the reabsorption of sodium in the thick ascending limb (TAL) of the loop of Henle and/or the distal convoluted tubule (DCT). Different subtypes can be distinguished and various classifications have been proposed based on clinical symptoms and/or the underlying genetic cause. Yet, the clinical phenotype can show remarkable variability, leading to potential divergences between classifications. These problems mostly relate to uncertainties over the role of the basolateral chloride exit channel CLCNKB, expressed in both TAL and DCT and to what degree the closely related paralogue CLCNKA can compensate for the loss of CLCNKB function. Here, we review what is known about the physiology of the transport proteins involved in these disorders. We also review the various proposed classifications and explain why a gene-based classification constitutes a pragmatic solution.
Material selection for optimum design of MEMS pressure sensors
Authors: Mehmood Zahid , Haneef Ibraheem , Udrea Florin
Published: October 2019

Choice of the most suitable material out of the universe of engineering materials available to the designers is a complex task. It often requires a compromise, involving conflicts between different design objectives. Materials selection for optimum design of a Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems (MEMS) pressure sensor is one such case. For optimum performance, simultaneous maximization of deflection of a MEMS pressure sensor diaphragm and maximization of its resonance frequency are two key but totally conflicting requirements. Another limitation in material selection of MEMS/Microsystems is the lack of availability of data containing accurate micro-scale properties of MEMS materials. This paper therefore, presents a material selection case study addressing these two challenges in optimum design of MEMS pressure sensors, individually as well as simultaneously, using Ashby’s method. First, data pertaining to micro-scale properties of MEMS materials has been consolidated and then the Performance and Material Indices that address the MEMS pressure sensor’s conflicting design requirements are formulated. Subsequently, by using the micro-scale materials properties data, candidate materials for optimum performance of MEMS pressure sensors have been determined. Manufacturability of pressure sensor diaphragm using the candidate materials, pointed out by this study, has been discussed with reference to the reported devices. Supported by the previous literature, our analysis re-emphasizes that silicon with 110 crystal orientation [Si (110)], which has been extensively used in a number of micro-scale devices and applications, is also a promising material for MEMS pressure sensor diaphragm. This paper hence identifies an unexplored opportunity to use Si (110) diaphragm to improve the performance of diaphragm based MEMS pressure sensors.
Neural cell responses to wear debris from metal-on-metal total disc replacements
Authors: Lee H. , Phillips J. B. , Hall R. M. , Tipper Joanne L.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Total disc replacements, comprising all-metal articulations, are compromised by wear and particle production. Metallic wear debris and ions trigger a range of biological responses including inflammation, genotoxicity, cytotoxicity, hypersensitivity and pseudotumour formation, therefore we hypothesise that, due to proximity to the spinal cord, glial cells may be adversely affected.

Methods

Clinically relevant cobalt chrome (CoCr) and stainless steel (SS) wear particles were generated using a six-station pin-on-plate wear simulator. The effects of metallic particles (0.5–50 μm3 debris per cell) and metal ions on glial cell viability, cellular activity (glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression) and DNA integrity were investigated in 2D and 3D culture using live/dead, immunocytochemistry and a comet assay, respectively.

Results

CoCr wear particles and ions caused significant reductions in glial cell viability in both 2D and 3D culture systems. Stainless steel particles did not affect glial cell viability or astrocyte activation. In contrast, ions released from SS caused significant reductions in glial cell viability, an effect that was especially noticeable when astrocytes were cultured in isolation without microglia. DNA damage was observed in both cell types and with both biomaterials tested. CoCr wear particles had a dose-dependent effect on astrocyte activation, measured through expression of GFAP.

Conclusions

The results from this study suggest that microglia influence the effects that metal particles have on astrocytes, that SS ions and particles play a role in the adverse effects observed and that SS is a less toxic biomaterial than CoCr alloy for use in spinal devices.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Revision after failed discectomy
Authors: Mehren Christoph , Wanke-Jellinek Lorenz , Korge Andreas
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Recurrent lumbar disc herniation is the most common complication after discectomy. Due to the altered anatomy with the presence of scar tissue, the surgical revision of already operated patients could be a surgical challenge.

Methods

We describe the microsurgical revision technique step by step with the evaluation of our own clinical results in comparison with primary lumbar disc surgeries. The clinical data are based on a clinical register with 2576 recorded primary surgeries (PD) and 592 cases of revisions (RD) with 12- and 24-month follow-up (FU). The intraoperative dura lesion rates of the surgeries between 2016 and 2018 were recorded retrospectively. Data from 894 primary disc surgeries and 117 revisions were evaluated.

Results

The ODI and the VAS for leg and back pain improved in both groups significantly with slightly inferior outcome of the revision group. The ODI improved from 46.3 (PD) and 45.9 (RD), respectively, to 12.6 (PD) and 22.9 (RD) at the 24-month FU. The VAS dropped down as well in both group [VAS back: 47.8 (PD) and 43.9 (RD) to 19.9 and 32.2 at the 24-month FU; VAS leg: 62.9 (PD) and 65.5 (RD) to 15.6 and 26.8 at the 24-month FU]. During the primary interventions, we observed 1.5% (11/894) and during revisions 7.7% (9/117) of dura lesions.

Conclusions

There is no clear guideline for the surgical treatment of recurrent disc herniations. In most cases, a pure re-discectomy is sufficient and can be performed safely and effectively with the help of a microscope.

Graphic abstract

These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.
Inception of subsequent stepped leaders in negative cloud-to-ground lightning
Authors: Stolzenburg Maribeth , Marshall Thomas C. , Karunarathne Sumedhe
Published: October 2019

Time-correlated high-speed video and electric field change data for 139 natural, negative cloud-to-ground (CG)-lightning flashes reveal 615 return strokes (RSs) and 29 upward-illumination (UI)-type strokes. Among 121 multi-stroke flashes, 56% visibly connected to more than one ground location for either a RS or UI-type stroke. The number of separate ground-stroke connection locations per CG flash averaged 1.74, with maximum 6. This study examines the 88 subsequent strokes that involved a subsequent stepped leader (SSL), either reaching ground or intercepting a former leader to ground, in 61 flashes. Two basic modes by which these SSLs begin are described and are termeddart-then-stepped leadersherein. One inception mode occurs when a dart leader deflects from the prior main channel and begins propagating as a stepped leader to ground. In these ‘divert’ mode cases, the relevant interstroke time from the prior RS in the channel to the SSL inception from that path is long, ranging from 105 to 204 ms in four visible cases. The alternative mode of SSL inception occurs when a dart leader reaches the end of a prior unsuccessful branch—of an earlier competing dart leader, stepped leader, or initial leader—then begins advancing as a stepped leader toward ground. In this more common ‘branch’ mode (85% of visible cases), there may be no portion of the subsequent RS channel that is shared with a prior RS channel. These two inception modes, and variations among them, can occur in different subsequent strokes of the same flash.
Numerical modelling of rough particle contacts subject to normal and tangential loading
Authors: Nadimi S. , Otsubo M. , Fonseca J. , O’Sullivan C.
Published: October 2019

Our understanding of the mechanics of contact behaviour for interacting particles has been developed mostly assuming that surfaces are smooth. However, real particles of interest in engineering science are generally rough. While recent studies have considered the influence of roughness on the normal force–displacement relationship, surface roughness was quantified using only a single scalar measure, disregarding the topology of the surface. There are some conflicting arguments concerning the effect of roughness on the tangential or shear force–displacement relationship. In this study, optical interferometry data are used to generate the surface topology for input into a 3D finite element model. This model is used to investigate the sensitivity of the normal force–displacement response to the surface topology by considering different surfaces with similar overall roughness values. The effect of surface roughness on the tangential force–displacement relationship and the influence of loading history are also explored. The results indicate that quantifying roughness using a single value, such as the root mean square height of roughness,Sq, is insufficient to predict the effect of roughness upon stiffness. It is also shown that in the absence of interlocking, rough particle surfaces exhibit a lower frictional resistance in comparison with equivalent smooth surfaces.