bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Frontline Science: A reduction in DHA-derived mediators in male obesity contributes toward defects in select B cell subsets and circulating antibody
Authors: Crouch Miranda J , Kosaraju Rasagna , Guesdon William , Armstrong Michael , Reisdorph Nichole , Jain Raghav , Fenton Jenifer , Shaikh Saame Raza 
Published: December 2018

Abstract
Obesity dysregulates B cell populations, which contributes toward poor immunological outcomes. We previously reported that differing B cell subsets are lowered in the bone marrow of obese male mice. Here, we focused on how lipid metabolites synthesized from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) known as specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPMs) influence specific B cell populations in obese male mice. Metabololipidomics revealed that splenic SPM precursors 14-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (14-HDHA), 17-hydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (17-HDHA), and downstream protectin DX (PDX) were decreased in obese male C57BL/6J mice. Simultaneous administration of these mediators to obese mice rescued major decrements in bone marrow B cells, modest impairments in the spleen, and circulating IgG2c, which is pro-inflammatory in obesity. In vitro studies with B cells, flow cytometry experiments with ALOX5−/− mice, and lipidomic analyses revealed the lowering of 14-HDHA/17-HDHA/PDX and dysregulation of B cell populations in obesity was driven indirectly via B cell extrinsic mechanisms. Notably, the lowering of lipid mediators was associated with an increase in the abundance of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have a high affinity for SPM-generating enzymes. Subsequent experiments revealed female obese mice generally maintained the levels of SPM precursors, B cell subsets, and antibody levels. Finally, obese human females had increased circulating plasma cells accompanied by ex vivo B cell TNFα and IL-10 secretion. Collectively, the data demonstrate that DHA-derived mediators of the SPM pathway control the number of B cell subsets and pro-inflammatory antibody levels in obese male but not female mice through a defect that is extrinsic to B cells.
Deep learning in radiology: An overview of the concepts and a survey of the state of the art with focus on MRI
Authors: Mazurowski Maciej A. , Buda Mateusz , Saha Ashirbani , Bashir Mustafa R. 
Published: December 2018

Deep learning is a branch of artificial intelligence where networks of simple interconnected units are used to extract patterns from data in order to solve complex problems. Deep‐learning algorithms have shown groundbreaking performance in a variety of sophisticated tasks, especially those related to images. They have often matched or exceeded human performance. Since the medical field of radiology mainly relies on extracting useful information from images, it is a very natural application area for deep learning, and research in this area has rapidly grown in recent years. In this article, we discuss the general context of radiology and opportunities for application of deep‐learning algorithms. We also introduce basic concepts of deep learning, including convolutional neural networks. Then, we present a survey of the research in deep learning applied to radiology. We organize the studies by the types of specific tasks that they attempt to solve and review a broad range of deep‐learning algorithms being utilized. Finally, we briefly discuss opportunities and challenges for incorporating deep learning in the radiology practice of the future.Level of Evidence: 3Technical Efficacy: Stage 1J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;49:939–954.
Rhyolitic and dacitic component of the Askja 1875 tephra in southern and central Finland: first step towards a Finnish tephrochronology
Authors: Kalliokoski Maarit , Wastegård Stefan , Saarinen Timo 
Published: December 2018

ABSTRACTTephra from Icelandic volcanic eruptions is frequently dispersed to northern Europe, but so far tephra has not been detected in Finnish sedimentary records. We report the first finding of a cryptotephra layer in southern and central Finland. Sediment samples from five lakes and 10 peatlands, most of them located in the tephra fallout zone of the Hekla 1947 eruption, were investigated for the presence of cryptotephra to assess the potential for tephrochronology in Finland. Tephra shards were extracted from their host matrix and electron probe microanalysis was conducted on single shards for geochemical characterization. Our results confirm the presence of Askja 1875 tephra in Finland, thus extending the known dispersal area of the Askja 1875 tephra eastwards. Most of the shards are rhyolitic, but a minor concentration of tephra with dacitic composition forms a narrow dispersal zone extending from Sweden to southern Finland. This zone possibly represents the main dispersal axis of the tephra in the distal area. Our results suggest that Finnish environmental research could benefit greatly from adding tephrochronology to the array of dating methods commonly used. Additionally, the absence of Hekla 1947 tephra in the previously inferred fall‐out zone is an important result indicating the complexity of tephra deposition and preservation.
Sustainability reporting practices in India: A study of selected conglomerates
Authors: Poddar Anushree , Narula Sapna A. 
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe evolutionary trends exhibit journey of companies toward sustainability of the major conglomerates, offering a learning for other smaller companies. This article investigates the sustainability reporting practices of selected Indian conglomerates based on the Global Reporting Initiatives (GRI) guidelines. The cases have been selected on the basis of data on market capitalization (based on Bombay Stock Exchange database) and number of reporting years (based on GRI Disclosure database). The study reveals characteristics and trends of reporting practices and also traces the path of sustainability journey in terms of evolution and advancement. A comparison of reporting on economic, environmental, and social indicators has been made and the results of the cases have also been also presented in a cumulative manner. The study opens new vistas for further researchers in understanding the process of sustainability reporting in India and is also helpful for practitioners foraying into writing sustainability reports.
Can linking executive compensation to sustainability performance lead to a sustainable business model? Evidence of implementation from enterprises around the world
Authors: Nigam Nirjhar , Benetti Cristiane , Mbarek Sondes 
Published: December 2018

AbstractMaking top executives accountable for their companies' sustainability performance demonstrates the seriousness of those companies' efforts to combat adverse environmental impacts caused by business practices and become sustainable corporate citizens. Corporations' sustainability goals should be reflected in top executives' remuneration and not merely in reports. Linking executive compensation with a company's sustainability goals may result in a better model for sustainable corporate health. Decision makers (CEO, CFO) that fail to support the mission of sustainability are unlikely to frame optimum policies for their companies.
Validation of the eighth edition AJCC staging system in early T1 to T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Murthy Samskruthi , Low Tsu‐Hui (Hubert) , Subramaniam Narayana , Balasubramanian Deepak , Sivakumaran Vidhyadharan , Anand Adharsh , Vijayan Smitha Nalumackal , Nambiar Ajit , Thankappan Krishnakumar , Iyer Subramania 
Published: December 2018

BackgroundTo validate the newly proposed American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) eighth edition staging in early T1 and T2 oral cavity cancers and its effect in predicting tumour control.MethodsRetrospective analysis of treatment outcomes of 441 T1 to T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Overall survival (OS), disease‐specific survival (DSS), and tumour control were calculated and compared between the AJCC 7 and 8 staging systems.ResultsThe 5‐year OS was 78% and 61% for T1 and T2 tumours, respetively (P < 0.001) (AJCC 7) vs 87% and 67% (P < 0.001) (AJCC 8). The 5‐year DSS was 78% and 61% for T1 and T2, respectively (P < 0.001) (AJCC 7) vs 89% and 71% (P < 0.001) (AJCC 8). For stages I and II tumours the 5‐year OS was 81% and 76%, respectively (P < 0.302) (AJCC 7) vs 87% and 73% (P < 0.017) (AJCC 8). The 5‐year DSS was 83% and 82% (P < 0.222) vs 89% and 77% (P < 0.016). With the AJCC eighth edition the 5‐year local, regional, and distant control rates for T1 vs T2 tumours were 85% vs 74% (P = 0.003), 95% vs 77% (P = 0.001), and 95% vs 80% (P = 0.014), respectively.ConclusionThe AJCC 8th staging system provided for more accurate prediction of OS, DSS, and disease control in early oral cavity cancers.
Destination competitiveness from a tourist perspective: A case of the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Reisinger Yvette , Michael Noela , Hayes John P. 
Published: December 2018

AbstractThe main purpose of this study is to determine the major factors that influence destination competitiveness from the tourist perspective. The focus is on tourism competitiveness of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A convenience sample of 218 international tourists was surveyed. A hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the effects of destination resources, infrastructure and support services, human resources, and business environment on the UAE tourism competitiveness. The results show that destination infrastructure and support services, followed by destination resources, had the highest significant effect on the UAE's tourism competitiveness as perceived by tourists.
Clinical value of transoral robotic surgery: Nationwide results from the first 5 years of adoption
Authors: Li Hong , Torabi Sina J. , Park Henry S. , Yarbrough Wendell G. , Mehra Saral , Choi Rachel , Judson Benjamin L. 
Published: December 2018

ObjectivesTo compare long‐term oncologic outcomes and adjuvant therapies for patients treated with transoral robotic surgery (TORS), nonrobotic surgery, or transoral laser microsurgery (TLM).Study DesignA retrospective analysis of the National Cancer Database (2010–2014).MethodsPatients with clinical tumor (T)1 and T2 oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC) were classified into those receiving TORS versus nonrobotic surgery versus TLM. Univariate and multivariate survival analyses were conducted with chi‐square tests; Kaplan‐Meier log‐rank test; and Cox multivariate, logistic regression, and multinomial regression modeling.ResultsWe identified 2,224 OPSCC TORS patients; 6,697 nonrobotic surgery patients; and 333 TLM patients. The majority of patients were white males with a mean age of approximately 59 years. No significant difference was noted between the cohorts in tumor stage; however, TORS patients were more likely to have nodal (N)1 to N3 disease than nonrobotic surgery and TLM patients, respectively (69.8% vs. 62.0% vs. 59.7%, P < 0.001).TORS was associated with a lower likelihood of positive margins when compared to nonrobotic surgery, although not TLM (nonrobotic surgery: hazard ratio [HR] 1.51, P < 0.001, TLM: HR 1.13, P = 0.582). TORS was associated with lower likelihood of postsurgical chemoradiotherapy (TLM: HR 2.07, P < 0.001, nonrobotic surgery: 1.65, P < 0.001) but not adjuvant radiotherapy alone (TLM: HR 1.06, P = 0.569, nonrobotic surgery: 0.96, P = 0.655). On multivariate Cox analysis of overall survival, the use of TORS was not associated with increased survival (TLM: HR 1.31, P = 0.233, nonrobotic surgery: HR 1.12, P < 0.303).ConclusionThe advantages of TORS for early‐stage OPSCC may be a lower likelihood of postsurgical positive margins and subsequent need for adjuvant chemoradiotherapy.Level of EvidenceNALaryngoscope, 129:1844–1855, 2019
Nanoantenna arrays as diode‐less rectifiers for energy harvesting in mid‐infrared band
Authors: Chekini Amir , Sheikhaei Samad , Neshat Mohammad 
Published: December 2018

AbstractUnlike the solar energy, infrared radiation from black bodies around us is always available. In this paper, a novel energy harvesting device is proposed for absorption of the infrared radiation from hot objects around us at temperatures beyond 300 K, in the vicinity of 10 μm wavelength, or from the Earth itself. Electron field emission from sharp edges in vacuum, based on Fowler‐Nordheim (FN) theory, is proposed as a means of rectification. A large number of nanoantennas are placed in an array to achieve high electric field, required for FN electron emission. The issue of wave spatial coherence is discussed in the paper, and it is shown that the device can operate with small affection. Using the proposed device, the MIM/MIIM diode, which is usually used for rectification and has a very low efficiency, is avoided and therefore efficiency is highly improved. A planar spiral series nanoantenna array (SSNA) is designed, as an example, to demonstrate the concept. Bowtie and cross bowtie antenna geometries are considered and their performances are compared.
Prevalence and impact of lower urinary tract symptoms: Results of the epic survey in Egypt
Authors: Mourad Sherif , Shokeir Ahmed , Ayoub Nadim , Ibrahim Mohey , Reynolds Nikolai , Donde Shaantanu , Hassan Tarek 
Published: December 2018

AimsTo estimate the prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), including overactive bladder (OAB), and urinary incontinence (UI), in Egypt and the impact on patients’ quality of life.MethodsA population‐based, cross‐sectional survey (EPIC) was conducted with a random sample of adults aged ≥18 years. Prevalence estimates were based on 2002 International Continence Society definitions.ResultsA total of 3600 adult men and women participated in the survey; 86% of them experienced ≥1 LUTS: storage symptoms were more frequently reported (75%) than voiding (52%) or postmicturition (42%) symptoms. The most prevalent storage symptom was nocturia (defined as ≥1 time per night) in 70% of the population. UI was reported by 21% (mixed UI [MUI]: 9%; stress UI [SUI]: 4%; urgency UI [UUI]: 5%; other UI: 3%), and 30% met criteria for OAB. Despite the high prevalence of LUTS, few individuals with UUI, MUI, SUI, or OAB took prescription medicine (12%) or consulted a healthcare professional about their symptoms (23%).ConclusionHigh prevalence rates of LUTS and OAB were found in adult men and women in Egypt, although low healthcare utilization and low prescription medication use for symptoms were observed.
Stress‐induced autonomic dysregulation of mitochondrial function in the rat urothelium
Authors: Kullmann Florenta Aura , McDonnell Bronagh M. , Wolf‐Johnston Amanda S. , Kanai Anthony J. , Shiva Sruti , Chelimsky Thomas , Rodriguez Larissa , Birder Lori A. 
Published: December 2018

AimChronic stress exacerbates the symptoms of most pain disorders including interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). Abnormalities in urothelial cells (UTC) occur in this debilitating bladder condition. The sequence of events that might link stress (presumably through increased sympathetic nervous system‐SNS activity) to urothelial dysfunction are unknown. Since autonomic dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress all occur in chronic pain, we investigated whether chronic psychological stress initiated a cascade linking these three dysfunctions.MethodsAdult female Wistar Kyoto rats were exposed to 10 days of water avoidance stress (WAS). Bladders were then harvested for Western blot and single cell imaging in UTC cultures.ResultsUTC from WAS rats exhibited depolarized mitochondria membrane potential (Ψm ∼30% more depolarized compared to control), activated AMPK and altered UT mitochondria bioenergetics. Expression of the fusion protein mitofusion‐2 (MFN‐2) was upregulated in the mucosa, suggesting mitochondrial structural changes consistent with altered cellular metabolism. Intracellular calcium levels were elevated in cultured WAS UTC, consistent with impaired cellular function. Stimulation of cultured UTC with alpha‐adrenergic (α‐AR) receptor agonists increased reactive oxidative species (ROS) production, suggesting a direct action of SNS activity on UTC. Treatment of rats with guanethidine to block SNS activity prevented most of WAS‐induced changes.ConclusionsChronic stress results in persistent sympathetically mediated effects that alter UTC mitochondrial function. This may impact the urothelial barrier and signaling, which contributes to bladder dysfunction and pain. This is the first demonstration, to our knowledge, of a potential autonomic mechanism directly linking stress to mitochondrial dysfunction.
The mechanics of urethral closure, incontinence and midurethral sling repair. Part 1 original experimental studies. (1990)
Authors: Petros Peter , Abendstein Burghard 
Published: December 2018

AimsTo summarize the mechanics of urethral closure, incontinence, and midurethral sling repair, a work in 3 parts Part 1. Original scientific studies (1990). Part 2. Experimental validation of reliance of the closure mechanisms on a competent PUL (1993–2003). Part 3. Surgery (1990–2016).MethodsPart1. Two unrelated observations in the mid 1980s led to the discovery of the MUS: a hemostat applied on one side of the midurethral area of the vagina, controlled urine loss on coughing without bladder neck elevation; an implanted Teflon tape cause a collagenous reaction. It was hypothesized that urinary stress incontinence (USI) was caused by collagen loss in the pubourethral ligament (PUL) and a tape implanted in the exact position of PUL would reinforce it and cure USI. A tape removable at 6 weeks was configured as an inverted “U” in the vagina and lowered sequentially.ResultsAt a certain point, the patient was continent on coughing but was able to pass urine freely. This proved the mechanism for continence was not obstructive. Post‐op xrays showed no elevation of bladder neck. This invalidated Enhorning's Theory. Ultrasound showed closure of distal urethra from behind and descent of vaginal fornix on straining. This indicated there were two closure mechanisms, distal urethral, and bladder neck. Three months following sling removal, there was a 50% failure rate.ConclusionsThe 1990 results indicated a permanent sling was required for the MUS. Further proofs were required for the proposed musculoelastic mechanisms.
Pelvic floor hypertonicity in women with pelvic floor disorders: A case control and risk prediction study
Authors: Cameron Brianna , Sabourin Johanne , Sanaee May S , Koenig Nicole A , Lee Terry , Geoffrion Roxana 
Published: December 2018

AimMyofascial pelvic pain is a chronic and debilitating condition, sometimes associated with pelvic floor disorders (PFD) such as urinary incontinence, defecatory dysfunction or pelvic organ prolapse. Our aim was to identify risk factors in women with PFD and hypertonic pelvic floor, compared to controls without hypertonicity.MethodsCase control study (2009‐2017) of patients with PFD and a diagnosis of hypertonic pelvic floor. Cases were matched with patients who presented with the same PFD but without pelvic floor hypertonicity. Postoperative patients with hypertonic pelvic floor were matched with patients who underwent surgery for the same PFD but did not develop pain. Risk factors were compared between groups.ResultsNinety‐five cases were matched; 71% had urogynecologic surgery as a possible trigger for myofascial pain. Most were post‐menopausal. Overall, case patients were younger than controls (mean 54 vs 59, P = 0.002). Multivariate logistic regression identified risk factors of younger age (OR 1.45, 95%CI 1.04‐2.07), history of depression (OR 3, 95%CI 1.03‐9.09), musculoskeletal spine injury (OR 4.32, 95%CI 1.01‐21.26) and transobturator midurethral sling (OR 8.36, 95%CI 2.68‐31.32). Retropubic midurethral sling was protective against pelvic floor hypertonicity (OR 0.37, 95%CI 0.15‐0.86). A clinical prediction model including depression, endometriosis, irritable bowel, spine injury and type of midurethral sling was developed to estimate the probability for myofascial pain after urogynecologic surgery.ConclusionsSpecific risk factors predispose women with PFD to chronic pelvic floor hypertonicity. Knowledge of these can help with patient counselling and choice of midurethral sling prior to PFD surgery.
Evaluating urinary incontinence before and after radical prostatectomy using the international consultation on incontinence questionnaire‐short form
Authors: Machioka Kazuaki , Kadono Yoshifumi , Naito Renato , Nakashima Kazufumi , Iijima Masashi , Kawaguchi Shohei , Shigehara Kazuyoshi , Nohara Takahiro , Izumi Kouji , Mizokami Atsushi 
Published: December 2018

AimsTo evaluate urinary incontinence using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form (ICIQ‐SF), daily pad use, and 24‐h pad weight test before and after radical prostatectomy (RP) chronologically, and the correlation between them.MethodsICIQ‐SF and questions on daily pad use provided subjective, and 24‐h pad weight test for objective evaluation.ResultsIn total, 258 cases were recruited. The continence rate at 12 months after RP was 67% for no pad use, 87% for security 1 pad/day, and 94% for 1 pad/day. The median ICIQ‐SF total score before and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after RP was 0, 10, 7, 5, and 4, respectively. Incontinence patterns differed when comparing ICIQ‐SF results pre‐ and post‐RP. Significant correlation existed between the ICIQ‐SF total score, 24‐h pad weight test, and daily pad use; however, point distribution on each scatter plot varied widely. Comparing results before and at 12 months after RP revealed complete recovery for 35% of patients from the ICIQ‐SF total score, 67% from daily pad use, and 64% from the 24‐h pad weight test. A combination of all 3 showed a recovery of preoperative levels in 29% of patients.ConclusionsICIQ‐SF was effective and convenient for evaluating UI, including the pattern of UI, after RP. Significant correlation, but wide variations, among ICIQ‐SF, daily pad use, and the 24‐h pad weight test existed. The best evaluation method would be the one that can compare UI status pre‐ and post‐RP using the ICIQ‐SF and 24‐h pad weight test.