bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Upper Esophageal Sphincter Response to Laryngeal Adductor Reflex Elicitation in Humans
Authors: Meisoll Frederik J. , Jungheim Michael , Fast Jacob F. , Miller Simone , Ptok Martin 
Published: October 2020

ObjectiveThe laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) is an important mechanism to secure the airways from potential foreign body aspiration. An involvement of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) in terms of a laryngo‐UES contractile reflex has been identified after laryngeal mucosa stimulation. However, the LAR–UES relationship has not yet been fully explained. This study aimed to determine the magnitude, latency, and occurrence rate of the UES pressure response when the LAR is triggered in order to elucidate the functional relationship between the larynx and the UES.MethodsThis prospective study included seven healthy volunteers (5 female, 2 male, age 22–34 years). Laryngeal penetration was simulated by eliciting the LAR 20 times in each individual by applying water‐based microdroplets onto the laryngeal mucosa. UES pressures were measured simultaneously using high‐resolution manometry.ResultsTwo distinct pressure phases (P1, P2) associated with the LAR were identified. P1 corresponded with a short‐term UES pressure decrease in two subjects and a pressure increase in five subjects occurring 200 to 500 ms after the stimulus. In P2, all subjects experienced an increase in UES pressure with a latency time of approximately 800 to 1700 ms and an average of 40 to 90 mmHg above the UES resting tone.ConclusionForeign bodies penetrating the laryngeal inlet lead to a reflex contraction of the UES. Phase P1 could be a result of vocal fold activity caused by the LAR, leading to pressure changes in the UES. The constriction during P2 could strengthen the barrier function of the UES in preparation to a subsequent cough that may be triggered to clear the airways.Level of Evidence4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1778–E1784, 2021
Botulinum Toxin Injection for Chronic Parotitis: A Multi‐Center and Prospective Trial
Authors: Kwon Soon Young , Chun Kyung Ju , Kil Hong Kwon , Oh Kyoung Ho , Kim Chulhan , Jang Su Jin , Kim Min‐Su 
Published: October 2020

ObjectiveWhen conservative therapy fails for chronic parotitis, sialendoscopic treatment or surgical excision can be considered. However, these are financially costly or invasive. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin (BTX) injection and to further analyze its effect on parotid gland function and volume using salivary single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)‐computed tomography (CT).MethodsThis clinical trial has been registered in the Clinical Research Information Service, Republic of Korea. Fourteen patients with chronic parotitis received BTX injections into the parotid glands. Pain, postprandial pain, swelling, aesthetic discomfort, and salivary flow rate were assessed before injection, at 2 weeks, and at 1, 3, and 6 months. Salivary SPECT–CT was performed before injection and again 3 and 6 months after to assess the volume and uptake changes.ResultsAll subjective symptoms decreased significantly until 1 month and then increased. However, at 6 months, all subjective symptoms were determined to be better than before injection. The unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rate did not show a significant difference over time. No significant difference was noted in parotid gland volume or uptake on salivary SPECT–CT over time.ConclusionBTX injection can be an alternative treatment option for chronic parotitis.Level of Evidence4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1903–E1909, 2021
Directed Assembly of Large‐Sized, Mechanically Robust, Nacre‐Inspired Graphene Oxide/Sodium Alginate Nanocomposite Paper
Authors: Mei Yong , Tang Xuke , Guo Jianchao , Sun Tian‐Yu , Zhang Yongbo , Chen Ke 
Published: October 2020

AbstractVarious approaches have been exploited to copy nacreous structure into human‐made structural nanocomposites with similar structure and impressive mechanical performance. However, it is still facing a great challenge to produce large‐sized, strong, and tough, biopolymer‐based nanocomposite, especially for further scale‐up in practical application. Herein, a large‐sized and nacre‐inspired nanocomposite paper can be successfully prepared via a simple evaporation‐induced self‐assembly technique, based on assembling hybrid graphene oxide/sodium alginate (GO/SA) building blocks. Through optimizing the lamellar hybrid interfacial interactions derived from hydrogen‐bonding network, the nacre‐inspired nanocomposite achieves a unique integration of high strength (up to 350.3 MPa) and high toughness (22.4 ± 2.9 MJ m−3), are superior to natural nacre, almost all GO and SA‐related composites, and many engineering materials. The hydrogen bond‐property correlation, combined with a simple assembling technique, will provide a powerful path for the large‐scale production of lightweight, biopolymer‐based materials with excellent mechanical properties.
Spontaneous forest regrowth in South‐West Europe: Consequences for nature's contributions to people
Authors: Martín‐Forés Irene , Magro Sandra , Bravo‐Oviedo Andrés , Alfaro‐Sánchez Raquel , Espelta Josep M. , Frei Theresa , Valdés‐Correcher Elena , Rodríguez Fernández‐Blanco Carmen , Winkel Georg , Gerzabek Gabriel , González‐Martínez Santiago C. , Hampe Arndt , Valladares Fernando 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

European forests are expanding and becoming denser following the widespread abandonment of farmland and rural areas. Spontaneous forest regrowth provides a cost‐effective opportunity to restore ecosystems, enhance multifunctionality and sustainability and mitigate climate change. Yet, little is known about the goods and services that such forests provide to people. We assessed the changes in nature's contributions to people (NCP) from spontaneous forest regrowth, i.e. forest expansion and densification, in South‐West Europe.

We investigated 65 forest plots in four different landscapes with contrasting ecological and societal contexts. Two landscapes are located in rural areas undergoing human exodus and forest expansion and densification; the other two, in peri‐urban areas with intense land use and forest densification but negligible expansion. For each forest plot, we estimated variables related to ten out of the 18 main NCP defined by the Intergovernmental Science‐Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES). Regulating and material NCP were addressed using variables measured in the field as proxies. Non‐material NCP were studied through stakeholder interviews.

Our results show across the cases that forest expansion and densification are generally associated with greater climate regulation and energy provision. Changes in other NCP, especially in non‐material ones, were strongly context‐dependent. The social perception of spontaneous forest regrowth was primarily negative in rural areas and more positive in peri‐urban landscapes.

Passive restoration through spontaneous forest expansion and densification can enhance regulating and material NCP, especially when adaptive management is applied. To optimise NCP and to increase the societal awareness of and interest in spontaneous forest regrowth, the effects of this process should be analysed in close coordination with local stakeholders to unveil and quantify the many and complex trade‐offs involved in rural or peri‐urban social perceptions.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Ultrasound detected prenatal hyperechoic lung lesions and concordance with postnatal findings: A common aspect for multiple diagnoses
Authors: Wong Michela Cing Yu , Faure Bardon Valentine , Farmakis Konstantinos , Berteloot Laureline , Lapillonne Alexandre , Delacourt Christophe , Sarnacki Sabine , Ville Yves , Khen‐Dunlop Naziha 
Published: October 2020

AbstractObjectiveHyperechoic lung lesions are largely detected prenatally but their underlying etiology is still poorly defined. The aim of the study was to determine the concordance between pre and postnatal diagnosis of hyperechoic lung lesions.MethodsPrenatal ultrasound (US) evaluation was performed by a fetal medicine specialist. Postnatal diagnosis was based on CT‐scan. Pre‐ and postnatal features were retrieved from medical charts.ResultsSeventy five patients were included from January 2009 to December 2018. Main prenatal diagnoses were bronchopulmonary sequestrations (BPS) (n = 24%‐32%), pulmonary cystic malformations (PCM) (n = 19%‐25%), congenital lobar emphysemas (CLE) (n = 15%‐20%). Mediastinal shift was observed in 18 cases (24%). The prenatal detection of a systemic arterial supply had a diagnostic accuracy of 90%, while the prenatal detection of a cystic component had a diagnostic accuracy of 76.5%.All 16 neonates with prenatal isolated mediastinal shift were asymptomatic at birth. Seven neonates showed respiratory distress that was not predicted prenatally.ConclusionsHyperechoic lung malformations reflect a heterogeneous group of lesions with a good concordance for bronchopulmonary sequestration, but not a satisfying prediction for cystic lesions.
Structural diversity inde novocyclic peptide ligands from genetically encoded library technologies
Authors: McAllister Tom E. , Coleman Oliver D. , Roper Grace , Kawamura Akane 
Published: October 2020

AbstractCyclic peptides discovered by genetically encoded library technologies have emerged as a class of promising molecules in chemical biology and drug discovery. Here we review the cyclic peptides identified through these techniques reported in the period 2015 to 2019, with a particular focus on the three‐dimensional structures that peptides adopt when binding to their targets. A range of different structures have been revealed through co‐crystal structures, highlighting how versatile and adaptable these molecules are in binding to diverse protein targets, such as enzymes and receptors, or challenging shallow surfaces involved in protein‐protein interfaces. Analysis of the properties of the peptides reported shows some interesting trends, with further insight for those with structural information suggestive that larger peptides are more likely to adopt secondary structure. We highlight examples where co‐crystal structures have informed the key interactions that promote high affinity and selectivity of cyclic peptides against their targets, identified novel inhibitor binding sites, and provided new insights into the biology of their targets. The structure‐guided modifications have also aided the design of cyclic peptides with improved activity and physicochemical properties. These examples highlight the importance of crystallography in future cyclic peptide drug discovery initiatives.
Improving the spatial prediction accuracy of soil alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen using GWPCA‐GWRK
Authors: Chen Jian , Qu Mingkai , Zhang Jianlin , Xie Enze , Zhao Yongcun , Huang Biao 
Published: October 2020

AbstractPrincipal component analysis‐multiple linear regression (PCA‐MLR) is usually used to weaken the multi‐collinearity effects among auxiliary variables in a regression prediction. However, both PCA and MLR in this model are only built on variable space rather than geographical space. When used in the spatial prediction of soil properties, PCA‐MLR usually cannot effectively capture the spatially non‐stationary structures among auxiliary variables and spatially non‐stationary relationships between the target variable and principal component scores. Moreover, PCA‐MLR may ignore the potentially valuable regression residual. To address these limitations, this study first proposed geographically weighted principal component analysis‐geographically weighted regression kriging (GWPCA‐GWRK) for the spatial prediction of soil alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen (AN) in Shayang County, China. Then, the spatial prediction accuracy of GWPCA‐GWRK was compared with those of the following five models: ordinary kriging (OK), co‐kriging (CoK), PCA‐MLR, PCA‐graphically weighted regression (PCA‐GWR), and GWPCA‐GWR. Results showed that (i) eight variables were determined as auxiliary data by a geodetector; (ii) the spatially non‐stationary relationships among the eight auxiliary variables were revealed by the results of the local correlation analysis, Monte Carlo test, and GWPCA; (iii) GWPCA‐GWRK provided the lowest prediction error (RMSE = 18.80 mg kg−1, MAE = 12.79 mg kg−1) and highest Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (LCCC; 0.75); (iv) relative improvement accuracies over the traditionally‐used OK were 19.74% for GWPCA‐GWRK, 16.42% for GWPCA‐GWR, 8.09% for PCA‐GWR, −3.67% for PCA‐MLR, and 4.70% for CoK. It is concluded that the proposed GWPCA‐GWRK model is an effective spatial predictor, which can adequately extract the main information of the multiple auxiliary variables in a large‐scale area.
Higher‐mode buckling and friction in long and large‐scale buckling‐restrained braces
Authors: Sitler Ben , Takeuchi Toru 
Published: October 2020

SummaryBuckling‐restrained braces (BRBs) are widely used as energy‐dissipation members in seismic areas, and BRBs with 10–20 m workpoint lengths have been applied in practice, particularly in tall buildings and spatial structures. This paper investigates the adverse effects of the core yield length on the compressive overstrength factor, local compressive and tensile strains, and fatigue demands. Sets of 2D shell and 3D solid models were analyzed using Abaqus, considering core yield lengths of up to 14 m and LY100, LY225, SN400B, SN490B, SA440B, and SA700 steel grades. Higher‐mode buckling and friction were shown to significantly amplify the compressive strain at the core ends and tensile strain at midspan, in part due to cyclic strain ratcheting, introducing the potential for core binding and premature necking. From these results, simple equations were proposed to calculate the compressive overstrength factor and to select the larger strong axis debonding gap and smaller design strain required for long BRBs.
Structural investigation of the collapse of the 16‐story Plasco building due to fire
Authors: Aghakouchak Ali Akbar , Garivani Sadegh , Shahmari Ali , Heshmati Mahdi 
Published: October 2020

SummaryOn January 19, 2017, the 16‐story Plasco tower located in Tehran, the capital city of Iran, collapsed in several stages, due to a fire lasting 3.5 h. This paper presents the results of numerical investigations on how the structure behaved during that incident. In this regard, initially, a part of floor system including main truss girders, secondary truss beams, tie beams, and reinforced concrete slab is simulated to study its deformed shape and collapse modes. Then 2D and 3D models of the building are developed to evaluate the global behavior of the structure under fire. The results show that at elevated temperatures, deflection of the floor system, main trusses, and out‐of‐plane bending of the beam‐to‐column gusset plates become excessive, leading to partial collapse of floor, in the location of fire initiation. Also, 2D models show that thermal expansion and catenary action of heated truss induce large lateral displacement and bending moment in perimeter column that cause failure of this column at about 650°C. Finally, 3D models indicate that general collapse of the building is initiated by buckling of the external columns located in the southern perimeter of the building. This result is in good agreement with videos and photos showing actual collapse of the structure.
The forensic exploitation of fingermark chemistry: A review
Authors: Bleay Stephen M. , Bailey Melanie J. , Croxton Ruth S. , Francese Simona 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThe substances deposited from the fingertip onto a surface during contact between them represent a highly complex range of chemicals that can be exploited in a variety of ways in a forensic investigation. An overview is given of the multitude of chemicals that have been detected in fingermarks, including those occurring in endogenous sweat, metabolites of ingested substances, and exogenous substances picked up on the fingertip. Changes in chemistry that may occur between deposition of the fingermark and its subsequent forensic analysis are discussed, with particular reference to the ways in which these changes have been considered as a means of dating fingermarks. The ways in which fingermark enhancement reagents utilize the different chemicals present to reveal ridge is reviewed, together with how different classes of chemical can be sequentially targeted to optimize the number of fingermarks recovered. A field of increasing interest is the use of advanced analytical techniques incorporating mass spectrometry and imaging capability to simultaneously obtain additional contextual information about the donor of the mark while visualizing the fingermark ridge pattern. Examples are given of how such information can be applied in forensic investigations. It is concluded that an extensive “tool kit” of fingermark enhancement processes is already available to utilize the different chemicals present, and the advances that can be made in this field using conventional approaches are limited. There is, instead, significant potential to utilize analytical techniques to forensically exploit the chemical information within fingermarks but there are also significant barriers to their implementation in this way.This article is categorized under:
Crime Scene Investigation > From Traces to Intelligence and Evidence
Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Fingermarks and Other Marks
Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Emerging Technologies and Methods
Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Surgical Residency Training: Perspective from a Low‐Middle Income Country
Authors: Adesunkanmi AbdulHafiz Oladapo , Ubom Akaninyene Eseme , Olasehinde Olalekan , Wuraola Funmilola Olanike , Ijarotimi Omotade Adebimpe , Okon Nwedobong Ededem , Ikimalo John Igemo , Fasubaa Olusola Benjamin , Adesunkanmi Abdul Rashid Kayode 
Published: October 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe COVID‐19 pandemic has drastically impacted postgraduate training programmes worldwide. This study aims to evaluate the Nigerian situation with respect to surgical training, with a view to identifying gaps and proffering solutions.MethodsA cross‐sectional survey of surgical residents in Nigeria was conducted between 27 July 2020 and 14 August 2020. A structured questionnaire designed using the free software Google Forms® was utilised for the study. The questionnaire was electronically distributed randomly to 250 surgical residents via emails and social media platforms including WhatsApp and Telegram. The data obtained was analysed by Google Forms®. Ethical approval for the study was obtained from the ethics and research unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile‐Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.ResultsAt the end of the study period, 207 surgical residents completed and submitted the questionnaire, giving a response rate of 82.8%. The majority of respondents reported a reduction (164, 79.2%) or cancellation (11, 5.3%) of postgraduate programmes in their institutions. Of those who had academic programmes, meetings were done using virtual technology in all instances. The majority of respondents reported seeing fewer patients in the outpatient clinics (173, 83.6%), as well as a reduction in the number of emergency and elective operations (58.5% and 90.8%, respectively). About a third of the respondents (70, 33.8%) were contemplating emigrating from the country.ConclusionThe COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly affected the clinical, research and teaching components of surgical training in Nigeria. It has, however, led to increased adoption of digital technology which should be further explored in the face of current realities.
Can Reasons and Values Influence Action: How Might Intentional Agency Work Physiologically?
Authors: Noble Raymond , Noble Denis 
Published: October 2020

AbstractIn this paper, we demonstrate (1) how harnessing stochasticity can be the basis of creative agency; (2) that such harnessing can resolve the apparent conflict between reductionist (micro-level) accounts of behaviour and behaviour as the outcome of rational and value-driven (macro-level) decisions; (3) how neurophysiological processes can instantiate such behaviour; (4) The processes involved depend on three features of living organisms: (a) they are necessarily open systems; (b) micro-level systems therefore nest within higher-level systems; (c) causal interactions must occur across all the boundaries between the levels of organization. The higher levels constrain the dynamics of lower levels. The experimental evidence and theoretical arguments are shown to be consistent with previous research on the neuronal mechanisms of conscious choice, and with the interconnected multi-level processes by which organisms harness stochasticity, whether conscious or unconscious.
Cluster Gauss–Newton method
Authors: Aoki Yasunori , Hayami Ken , Toshimoto Kota , Sugiyama Yuichi 
Published: October 2020

AbstractParameter estimation problems of mathematical models can often be formulated as nonlinear least squares problems. Typically these problems are solved numerically using iterative methods. The local minimiser obtained using these iterative methods usually depends on the choice of the initial iterate. Thus, the estimated parameter and subsequent analyses using it depend on the choice of the initial iterate. One way to reduce the analysis bias due to the choice of the initial iterate is to repeat the algorithm from multiple initial iterates (i.e. use a multi-start method). However, the procedure can be computationally intensive and is not always used in practice. To overcome this problem, we propose the Cluster Gauss–Newton (CGN) method, an efficient algorithm for finding multiple approximate minimisers of nonlinear-least squares problems. CGN simultaneously solves the nonlinear least squares problem from multiple initial iterates. Then, CGN iteratively improves the approximations from these initial iterates similarly to the Gauss–Newton method. However, it uses a global linear approximation instead of the Jacobian. The global linear approximations are computed collectively among all the iterates to minimise the computational cost associated with the evaluation of the mathematical model. We use physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models used in pharmaceutical drug development to demonstrate its use and show that CGN is computationally more efficient and more robust against local minima compared to the standard Levenberg–Marquardt method, as well as state-of-the art multi-start and derivative-free methods.