bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Wendler Glottoplasty on Acoustic Measures of Voice
Authors: Chang Joseph , Brown Sarah K. , Hu Shirley , Sivakumar Ganesh , Sataluri Medha , Goldberg Leanne , Courey Mark S. 
Published: June 2020

ObjectivesVoice therapy has been the primary treatment for voice feminization in transfemale patients due to concerns that surgery worsens voice quality. We aim to determine the impact of Wendler glottoplasty on acoustic measures of voice.Study DesignRetrospective case series.MethodsTransgender female patients treated for vocal feminization with Wendler glottoplasty at a single tertiary care center were identified. Pre‐ and postoperative measures were taken with the Kay Elemetrics Real‐Time Pitch, Analysis of Dysphonia in Speech and Voice, and Multidimensional Voice Program.ResultsTwenty‐eight patients were included in this study. There were no statistically significant changes in fundamental frequency variation, peak amplitude variation, soft phonation index, noise‐to‐harmonics ratio, cepstral peak prominence, or cepstral spectral index of dysphonia at a significance level of P < .05. Average speaking fundamental frequency (SF0) increased from 143 Hz after voice therapy to 163 Hz after surgery (P = .0009). Lower range decreased in 61% and increased in 26% of patients. Upper range decreased in 52% and increased in 48% of patients.ConclusionsWendler glottoplasty does not worsen voice quality based on acoustic measures. Although most patients experience an increase in average SF0, effects on vocal range are variable with approximately half of patients experiencing a reduction and half experiencing an increase in upper pitch limit.Level of Evidence4 Laryngoscope, 131:583–586, 2021
Interpretation challenges of novel dual‐class missense and splice‐impacting variant in POLR3A‐related late‐onset hereditary spastic ataxia
Authors: Morales‐Rosado Joel A. , Macke Erica L. , Cousin Margot A. , Oliver Gavin R. , Dhamija Radhika , Klee Eric W. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractBackgroundRNA polymerase III (Pol III)‐related disorders are autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorders caused by variants in POLR3A or POLR3B. Recently, a novel phenotype of adult‐onset spastic ataxia was identified in individuals with the c.1909+22G>A POLR3A variant in compound heterozygosity.MethodsWhole‐exome sequencing was performed in the proband and parents. Variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. RNA sequencing was performed to evaluate splicing implications.ResultsA 42‐year‐old female was evaluated for unexplained neurological findings with a slow progressive decline in gait and walking speed since adolescence. WES revealed a novel missense variant (c.3593A>C, p.Lys1198Arg) in exon 27 of POLR3A in compound heterozygosity with the c.1909+22G>A variant. Summary of previously reported clinical features from individuals with pathogenic biallelic alterations in POLR3A and adult‐onset phenotype is consistent with our findings. RNA analysis revealed c.3593A>G drives the production of four RNA transcript products each with different functional impacts.ConclusionThe novel dual‐class c.3593A>C variant in POLR3A causes an amino acid substitution and complex disruption of splicing. Our report supports the need to investigate variants near splice junctions for proper interpretation. Current interpretation guidelines need to address best practices for inclusion of predicted or measured transcriptional disruption pending functional activity or reliable transcript abundance estimates.
Exact and hyper‐heuristic solutions for the distribution‐installation problem from the VeRoLog 2019 challenge
Authors: Kheiri Ahmed , Ahmed Leena , Boyacı Burak , Gromicho Joaquim , Mumford Christine , Özcan Ender , Dirikoç Ali Selim 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThis work tackles a rich vehicle routing problem (VRP) problem integrating a capacitated vehicle routing problem with time windows (CVRPTW), and a service technician routing and scheduling problem (STRSP) for delivering various equipment based on customers' requests, and the subsequent installation by a number of technicians. The main objective is to reduce the overall costs of hired resources, and the total transportation costs of trucks/technicians. The problem was the topic of the fourth edition of the VeRoLog Solver Challenge in cooperation with the ORTEC company. Our contribution to research is the development of a mathematical model for this problem and a novel hyper‐heuristic algorithm to solve the problem based on a population of solutions. Experimental results on two datasets of small and real‐world size revealed the success of the hyper‐heuristic approach in finding optimal solutions in a shorter computational time, when compared to our exact model. The results of the large size dataset were also compared to the results of the eight finalists in the competition and were found to be competitive, proving the potential of our developed hyper‐heuristic framework.
A systematic review of psychosocial interventions to improve quality of life of people with cancer and their family caregivers
Authors: Gabriel Israel , Creedy Debra , Coyne Elisabeth 
Published: June 2020

AbstractAimsTo review the characteristics and effectiveness of psychosocial interventions on quality of life of adult people with cancer and their family caregivers.DesignA systematic review using PRISMA guidelines.MethodsSeven databases were searched from 2009–2019 using key terms. Included studies were assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies.Results1909 studies were retrieved with 12 studies included, involving 3,390 patients/caregivers. Interventions aimed to improve communication, behaviour change and setting short‐term goals. Duration of interventions varied from 4–17 weeks. Highest benefit was gained from telephone interventions. Interventions based on interpersonal counselling appeared more effective than other approaches. Studies predominantly focused on psychological, physical and social domains of quality of life. Spiritual well‐being received relatively little attention. A paradigm shift is needed to develop psychosocial interventions that incorporate spiritual well‐being. More research is needed in developing countries.
Space‐time a posteriori error analysis of finite element approximation for parabolic optimal control problems: A reconstruction approach
Authors: Manohar Ram , Kumar Sinha Rajen 
Published: June 2020

SummaryWe derive space‐time a posteriori error estimates of finite element method for linear parabolic optimal control problems in a bounded convex polygonal domain. To discretize the control problem, we use piecewise linear and continuous finite elements for the approximations of the state and costate variables, whereas piecewise constant functions are employed for the control variable. The temporal discretization is based on the backward Euler implicit scheme. An elliptic reconstruction technique in conjunction with energy argument is used to derive a posteriori error estimates for the state, costate, and control variables in the L∞(0,T;L2(Ω))‐norm. Moreover, numerical experiments are performed to illustrate the performance of the derived estimators.
What are the psychological effects of mesothelioma on patients and their carers? A scoping review
Authors: Sherborne Virginia , Seymour Jane , Taylor Bethany , Tod Angela 
Published: June 2020

AbstractObjectiveDespite recent advances in research, malignant mesothelioma remains an incurable and devastating disease, typically bringing shock and emotional distress to patients and carers. Little research has addressed the psychological impact on either group. This scoping review examines the current state of evidence on the psychological effects of mesothelioma on patients and carers, and identifies areas for further research.MethodsWe searched PubMed, PsychINFO, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library and Web of Science for English‐language peer‐reviewed research articles published 1981 to 2019 reporting studies focussing on the psychological effects of mesothelioma on patients and carers. Following data extraction and quality appraisal, reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify themes.ResultsSeventeen articles met the inclusion criteria. Carers' experiences were generally amalgamated with patients'. Three themes were developed. The Passing of Time included the importance of timing of interventions; delays in the medical journey; awareness of different time‐phases in mesothelioma; and uncertainty/certainty. Dealing with Difficult Feelings reflected ubiquitous negative emotions, feelings about identity and states of being and associated coping strategies. Craving Good Communication covered issues related to sharing of information and to positive/negative aspects of communication.ConclusionsThough limited, the evidence indicates that mesothelioma, with its high symptom‐burden, incurability, rarity and asbestos‐related causation, leads to complex and inter‐relating psychological effects on patients and carers. These effects are both negative and positive. The sparse literature gives a partial picture and demonstrates an urgent need for more nuanced research. Studies exploring the experiences of specific groups are recommended, with particular attention required to carers.
Self‐reported cognitive outcomes among adolescent and young adult patients with noncentral nervous system cancers
Authors: Tan Chia Jie , Mah Jaclyn Jia Jun , Goh Wei Lin , Poon Eileen , Harunal Rashid Mohamad Farid , Chan Alexandre 
Published: June 2020

AbstractObjectiveCancer‐related cognitive impairment (CRCI) among adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients with noncentral nervous system (CNS) cancers has not been well studied. In this study, we aimed to describe CRCI‐associated trends and characteristics among AYA cancer patients.MethodsIn a longitudinal cohort of AYA cancer patients without CNS disease, CRCI was evaluated over 1 year using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Cognitive Function Instrument, a self‐reported cognitive outcome measure. CRCI prevalence was quantified using the previously established minimal clinically important difference. CRCI‐associated longitudinal trends and factors were evaluated with mixed‐effects model analysis.ResultsNinety‐one patients (mean age = 28.4 ± 6.7 years) were included. Approximately one‐third (34.1%) experienced CRCI at least once during the study follow‐up. Female gender (P = .02), Indian ethnicity (P < .01), current smokers (P < .01), anxiety/depressive symptoms (P < .01) and fatigue (P < .01) were found to be associated with poorer cognitive function among AYAs.ConclusionsAlthough AYA cancer patients were relatively young and without CNS disease involvement, a significant proportion of them experienced clinically important decline in cognitive function. With improved understanding of this subject, effective strategies can be formulated to promote awareness of CRCI and mitigate its negative effects among AYA cancer patients.
Effect of information and exercise programmes after lumbar disc surgery: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jentoft Eva Saltskår , Kvåle Alice , Assmus Jörg , Moen Vegard Pihl 
Published: June 2020

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare two physiotherapy interventions following lumber disc surgery regarding effect on pain, functioning and fear of movement.MethodsThis study is a prospective randomized controlled study. When admitted to hospital for first time lumbar disc surgery, the participants were randomized to one of two post‐operative intervention groups: one group received information only and the other exercise in combination with information. Outcomes were collected at baseline, 6–8 weeks and 12‐months post‐surgery. The primary outcome was to record changes in back/hip pain and leg pain. Secondary outcomes were evaluation of changes in function, fear‐avoidance beliefs and kinesiophobia.ResultsSeventy patients completed the study and were included in the analysis, of which 37 were randomized to the group receiving information only and the remaining 33 receiving both exercise and information. For primary outcomes, at 12 months postoperatively, the group receiving both exercise and information had significantly lower leg pain compared with those receiving only information (p < .033). For secondary outcomes, at 12 months postoperatively, a significant difference (p < .027) was detected for function, which favoured those that received both exercise and information. There was no significant difference in the results for the other secondary outcomes. Both groups showed clinically important changes in relation to pain and function from baseline to 12 months. The effect of treatment showed a statistically significant difference in favour of exercise and information, but the difference was not clinically relevant.ConclusionExercise in combination with information reduced leg pain and improved function, which was statistically more evident over a period of time. Postoperative physiotherapy after lumbar disc surgery could include exercises in addition to information, but perhaps not for all patients, as both groups improved, and the difference between the two groups was not clinically relevant.
Exosomes derived from P2X7 receptor gene-modified cells rescue inflammation-compromised periodontal ligament stem cells from dysfunction
Authors: Xu Xin-Yue , Tian Bei-Min , Xia Yu , Xia Yun-Long , Li Xuan , Zhou Huan , Tan Yi-Zhou , Chen Fa-Ming 
Published: June 2020

AbstractAlthough cellular therapy has been proposed for inflammation-related disorders such as periodontitis for decades, clinical application has been unsuccessful. One explanation for these disappointing results is that the functions of stem cells are substantially compromised when they are transplanted into an inflammatory in vivo milieu. Considering the previous finding that P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) gene modification is able to reverse inflammation-mediated impairment of periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs), we further hypothesized that cells subjected to P2X7R gene transduction also exert influences on other cells within an in vivo milieu via an exosome-mediated paracrine mechanism. To define the paracrine ability of P2X7R gene-modified cells, P2X7R gene-modified stem cell-derived conditional medium (CM-Ad-P2X7) and exosomes (Exs-Ad-P2X7) were used to incubate PDLSCs. In an inflammatory osteogenic microenvironment, inflammation-mediated changes in PDLSCs were substantially reduced, as shown by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis, Western blot analysis, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining/activity assays, and Alizarin red staining. In addition, the Agilent miRNA microarray system combined with qRT-PCR analysis revealed that miR-3679-5p, miR-6515-5p, and miR-6747-5p were highly expressed in Exs-Ad-P2X7. Further functional tests and luciferase reporter assays revealed that miR-3679-5p and miR-6747-5p bound directly to the GREM-1 protein, while miR-6515-5p bound to the GREM-1 protein indirectly; these effects combined to rescue inflammation-compromised PDLSCs from dysfunction. Thus, in addition to maintaining their robust functionality under inflammatory conditions, P2X7R gene-modified stem cells may exert positive influences on their neighbors via a paracrine mechanism, pointing to a novel strategy for modifying the harsh local microenvironment to accommodate stem cells and promote improved tissue regeneration.
Substance use among sexual and gender minorities: Association with police discrimination and police mistrust
Authors: Lipperman‐Kreda Sharon , Wilson Ida , Hunt Geoffrey P. , Annechino Rachelle , Antin Tamar M. J. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractWe investigated associations between experiences with police discrimination, police mistrust, and substance use in a convenience sample of 237 sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults in California. In a cross‐sectional survey, collected between January 2016 and July 2017, participants reported substance use, lifetime experiences with SGM‐related police discrimination, police mistrust, demographics, and SGM visibility. In adjusted logistic regression models, we found a positive association between lifetime police discrimination and past 2‐week heavy episodic drinking. Police mistrust also was positively associated with past month marijuana use. Several significant interactions between lifetime police discrimination or police mistrust with other socially stigmatized identities including being African American, insecure housing, and being a gender minority on a few substance use outcomes suggest that effects of police discrimination and mistrust on substance use are stronger among participants with multiple stigmatized identities. Results suggest the importance of policies and interventions that focus on eliminating police discrimination and increasing police legitimacy to reduce risk of substance use among SGM individuals.
Trans A2B2 Porphyrins: Synthesis, Crystal Structure Determinations and Hirshfeld Surface Analysis
Authors: Dechan Padma , Devi Bajju Gauri , Sood Puneet 
Published: June 2020

AbstractTrans‐A2B2 porphyrins containing p‐methoxyphenyl (A)/p‐methylphenyl (B) (P4) and p‐chlorophenyl (A)/p‐methylphenyl (B) (P5) at the four meso (−CH=) positions of the tetrapyrrolic macrocycles have been synthesized by employing the two steps modified Adler's methodology. Remarkably, the present synthetic scheme afforded us the needle shaped single crystals of (P4) and (P5) that helped us investigate the three dimensional structural architectures of the prepared Trans‐A2B2 porphyrins. Hirschfeld surface analysis (HSs) was used to visualize the fidelity of the crystal structures of (P4) and (P5). This method permitted the identification of individual types of intermolecular contacts and their impact on crystal packings. Molecules are linked by a combination of H⋅ ⋅ ⋅H and C⋅ ⋅ ⋅H contacts, which have clear signatures in the corresponding fingerprint plots. The effect of incorporating two different non sterically demanding functionalities at the para positions of meso phenyl rings on the optical and thermal properties of symmetric (A4) porphyrins i. e. Tetra‐para‐methoxy phenyl porphyrin P1, Tetra‐para‐methyl phenyl porphyrin P2 and Tetra‐para‐chloro phenyl porphyrin P3, have been investigated and the results have been discussed in detail.
Characterization of Packaging‐Induced Stress Distributions for Small‐Scale Silicon Chips
Authors: Ueda Naohiro , Watanabe Hirobumi 
Published: June 2020

AbstractThis report shows packaging‐induced stress distribution of a small‐scale silicon chip encapsulated by a Small‐Outline Nonleaded package. The proposed method made it possible to visualize the stress distribution chart for a chip about 1.0 mm2 in size with high accuracy, even when the chip has only four pads. It is found that the stress was generated during resin molding, as determined from stress measurement during the middle of the packaging process. In addition, the impact of filler particle size and position in Epoxy Molding Compounds on the local stress of the chip surface is revealed. The compressive stresses were found to be greatest at the center of the chip and gradually decrease toward the edges. Also, the results for die pad structure produced a characteristic distribution chart in which the central area of the silicon chip has a smaller stress gradient. The impact of high‐temperature storage test on residual stress is also discussed. © 2020 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
The Postwar Explosion in Radio Astronomy: The US Falls Behind
Authors: Kellermann Kenneth I. , Bouton Ellen N. , Brandt Sierra S. 
Published: June 2020

AbstractDuring the Second World War, a number of radar scientists independently discovered powerful radio emission from the Sun. Following the cessation of hostilities, and making use of their wartime experience, scientists, mostly at Jodrell Bank and Cambridge in the UK and in Sydney, Australia, used discarded radar systems to further investigate the complex solar radio emission, discovered powerful radio emission from old supernova explosions, and even more powerful radio sources from what later became known as radio galaxies. Encouraged by their early successes with relatively primitive equipment and the potential for new discoveries, scientists in the UK, Australia, the USSR, and the Netherlands developed plans to build more powerful radio telescopes and sophisticated new instrumentation.
Addressing Climate Change Vulnerability Through Small Livestock Rearing in Matobo, Zimbabwe
Authors: Phiri Keith , Ndlovu Sibonokuhle , Mpofu Moreblessings , Moyo Philani , Evans Henri-Count 
Published: June 2020

AbstractLivestock rearing is a popular climate change adaptation strategy among farmers in Matobo District, Zimbabwe. In this chapter we reveal how farmers in Matobo District have benefited immensely from rearing small livestock in response to climate change. Although the descriptor “small livestock” generically refers to different types of livestock, in this chapter we limit it to goat and sheep rearing. The purpose of the chapter is (1) to discuss the efficacy of small livestock rearing as a response to climate change and (2) to use smallholder farmer’s narratives to evaluate the success of government interventions in enhancing small livestock production. Utilizing an inductive approach, data was gathered through five (5) key informants, five (5) focus group discussions, and 50 in-depth semi-structured interviews. Our study reveals that small livestock are suitable and adaptable to climate change impacts in Matobo. We recommend that government and its development partners prioritize and avail funds for the increased uptake of small livestock rearing among smallholder farmers in Matobo District and beyond.
Climate Change Adaptation Through Sustainable Water Resources Management in Kenya: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Asokan Shilpa Muliyil , Obando Joy , Kwena Brian Felix , Luwesi Cush Ngonzo 
Published: June 2020

AbstractWater is the medium through which society experiences the most dramatic and direct manifestations of climate change. At the same time, water has a critical role to play in climate change adaptation and is central towards achieving Africa Water Vision 2025, and the targets set for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as well as the Kenya Vision 2030. There are fundamental challenges that need to be addressed in order to achieve sustainable water resources management, mainly, the inherent uncertainty associated with the changing climate, the inflexibility in infrastructure and institutions that manage water, and the poor integration of all stakeholders and sectors in water resources management. This study investigates the challenges and opportunities in implementing integrated water resources management and its critical role towards climate change adaptation. A preliminary assessment of sustainable management of water resources and its role in effective climate change adaptation and resilience building in Kenya is carried out through questionnaire survey and stakeholder interactions. Climate change-induced uncertainty, diminishing water sources aggravated by growing water demand, weak institutional and financial governance, and lack of transparency and stakeholder inclusiveness are identified as the main challenging factors that need to be addressed to build a climate resilient society. The study furthermore emphasizes the critical role of water management in achieving Agenda 2030, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
Conclusions and Recommendations
Authors: Kaufmann-Kohler Gabrielle , Potestà Michele 
Published: June 2020

AbstractIn this conclusive chapter, the authors discuss how in certain areas of interactions between domestic courts and international investment tribunals, the “division of labor” between the two types of dispute settlement bodies is not always optimal, with the result that inefficiencies burden the system. In these areas, there is a need for improvement by providing for a more fruitful allocation of tasks among domestic and international courts and tribunals, whatever form the latter may take.