bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of autologous adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells for creation of laryngeal cartilage
Authors: Zhang Hongji , Voytik‐Harbin Sherry , Brookes Sarah , Zhang Lujuan , Wallace Joseph , Parker Noah , Halum Stacey 
Published: December 2017

Objectives/HypothesisAdipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) are an exciting potential cell source for tissue engineering because cells can be derived from the simple excision of autologous fat. This study introduces a novel approach for tissue‐engineering cartilage from ASCs and a customized collagen oligomer solution, and demonstrates that the resultant cartilage can be used for laryngeal cartilage reconstruction in an animal model.Study DesignBasic science experimental design.MethodsASCs were isolated from F344 rats, seeded in a customized collagen matrix, and cultured in chondrogenic differentiation medium for 1, 2, and 4 weeks until demonstrating cartilage‐like characteristics in vitro. Large laryngeal cartilage defects were created in the F344 rat model, with the engineered cartilage used to replace the cartilage defects, and the rats followed for 1 to 3 months. Staining examined cellular morphology and cartilage‐specific features.ResultsIn vitro histological staining revealed rounded chondrocyte‐appearing cells evenly residing throughout the customized collagen scaffold, with positive staining for cartilage‐specific markers. The cartilage was used to successfully repair large cartilaginous defects in the rat model, with excellent functional results.ConclusionsThis study is the first study to demonstrate, in an animal model, that ASCs cultured in a unique form of collagen oligomer can create functional cartilage‐like grafts that can be successfully used for partial laryngeal cartilage replacement.Level of EvidenceNA. Laryngoscope, 128:E123–E129, 2018
Clinical implications of magnetic resonance imaging in temporomandibular disorders patients presenting ear fullness
Authors: Lee Sang Yeon , Park Ji Woon , Park Seo Eun , Nam Dong Woo , Lim Hyun Jung , Kim Young Ho 
Published: December 2017

Objectives/HypothesisThe aim of this study was to investigate whether findings detected by temporomandibular joint magnetic resonance imaging (TMJ‐MRI) can provide pathognomonic evidence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients with nonspecific ear fullness (EF). The association of nonspecific EF with clinical characteristics of TMD based on TMJ‐MRI findings was examined.Study DesignRetrospective analysis.MethodsThirty‐four subjects (42 ears) who had no detectable otologic problems as a cause of EF were enrolled in this study. Each subject underwent TMJ‐MRI to identify pathology of the TMJ as a possible cause of nonspecific EF. All subjects participated in the re‐evaluation process following TMD treatment.ResultsAnatomical abnormalities in TMJ‐MRI, irrespective of TMD signs, were observed in 34 of the 42 ears (80.9%), such as degenerative change of the TMJ (16 ears), articular disc displacement (11 ears), and joint effusion (seven ears). Specific abnormalities of the TMJ were associated with nonspecific EF, and this symptom showed improvement following individualized TMD treatment in those with internal derangement and/or effusion of the TMJ. However, abnormal TMJ‐MRI findings were also observed in seven of nine ears with no TMD signs, and there was no significant association between the presence of TMD signs and abnormal TMJ‐MRI findings (χ2 = 0.075, P = .784).ConclusionsPatients presenting with nonspecific EF may have TMD, which can be effectively diagnosed using TMJ‐MRI. The present study revealed the causal relationship between nonspecific EF and abnormal TMJ findings based on MRI. Individualized TMD treatments based on TMJ‐MRI led to improved treatment outcomes with special regard to nonspecific EFLevel of Evidence4. Laryngoscope, 128:1692–1698, 2018
Brain volume changes in hyposmic patients before and after olfactory training
Authors: Gellrich Janine , Han Pengfei , Manesse Cedric , Betz Amelie , Junghanns Anne , Raue Claudia , Schriever Valentin A. , Hummel Thomas 
Published: December 2017

Objectives/HypothesisOlfactory dysfunction is thought to be associated with reduced gray matter (GM) volume in olfactory‐related brain areas. The aim of this study was to determine GM structural changes within olfactory‐related regions of the brain in patients with smell loss due to upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) before and after olfactory rehabilitation.Study DesignProspective intervention case‐control study.MethodsMagnetic resonance imaging structural brain images were collected from 30 patients with smell loss due to URTI and 31 controls. Patients exposed themselves to odors (olfactory training [OT]) over 12 weeks and then were rescanned. Olfactory testing was performed using the validated Sniffin' Sticks test. GM was investigated with voxel‐based morphometry.ResultsGM volumes were found to be reduced in the limbic system and thalamus among pretraining patients compared to controls; in patients, OT was associated with a significant increase of GM volume in these two regions. The GM volume within other olfactory‐related regions was not different between patients and controls. In addition, no relevant difference between the GM volume pre‐ and post‐OT was observed in primary olfactory‐related regions.ConclusionsOT was associated with an increase in GM volume of the hippocampus and the thalamus, possibly pointing toward a strategy for more effective exploitation of olfactory signals based on a higher degree of attention toward odors and association of memories with olfactory input.Level of Evidence3b. Laryngoscope, 128:1531–1536, 2018
Phases or regimes? Revisiting NDVI trends as proxies for land degradation
Authors: Easdale Marcos Horacio , Bruzzone Octavio , Mapfumo Paul , Tittonell Pablo 
Published: December 2017

AbstractOne of the main challenges in land degradation assessment is that a rigorous and systematic approach to addressing its complex dynamics is still missing. The development and application of operative tools at regional and global scales remain a challenge. Land degradation is usually defined as a long‐term decline in ecosystem function and productivity. Due to its temporal and spatial resolution as well as data availability, the use of time series of spectral vegetation indexes obtained from satellite sensors has become frequent in recent studies in this field. Slope of linear trends of the normalized difference vegetation index is usually considered an accurate indicator and is widely used as a proxy for land degradation. Yet this method is built on a number of simplifying conceptual and methodological assumptions that prevent capturing more complex dynamics, such as cyclic or periodic behaviors. Our aim was to examine the limitations associated with using linear normalized difference vegetation index trends as proxies for land degradation by comparing outcomes with an alternative methodological procedure based on wavelet autoregressive methods. We explored these issues in 5 case studies from Africa and South America. We observed that trend explained a marginal portion of total temporal variability, whereas monotonic functions, such as linear trends, were unable to capture dynamics that were non‐unidirectional, resulting in misinterpretation of actual trends. Wavelet autoregressive method results were encouraging as a step towards the application of more accurate methods to provide sound scientific information of land degradation and restoration.
21st Century Advances in Fluorescence Techniques to Characterize Glass‐Forming Polymers at the Nanoscale
Authors: Burroughs Mary J. , Christie Dane , Gray Laura A. G. , Chowdhury Mithun , Priestley Rodney D. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractCharacterization of polymers at the nanometer‐length scale has become increasingly important with the growth and expansion of nanotechnology. Due to limitations of sensitivity and specificity that persist with traditional materials characterization techniques, there is a growing need to develop new tools to measure the properties of confined polymer systems. Within the past 20 years, fluorescence characterization techniques have emerged to address this challenge. This review focuses on the employment of fluorescence techniques such as temperature‐ and time‐dependent steady‐state intensity, fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, and nonradiative energy transfer to study polymer behavior at the nanoscale. Properties discussed include glass transition temperature, physical aging, diffusion and mobility, and mechanical response. Particular attention is given to the unique insight gained through these techniques as well as opportunities for future studies. The ability of fluorescence to obtain location‐ and component‐specific measurements with nanometer resolution for a variety of polymer chemistries and geometries on a bench‐top instrument provides a valuable contribution to the characterization and understanding of polymers at the nanoscale.
For Indian online shoppers, have saying and doing parted ways?
Authors: Mishra Manit 
Published: December 2017

AbstractGrounded in the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and based on both perceptual as well as behavioral data, the study explores e‐service quality (e‐SQ) dimensions’ influence on merchandise value perception (MVP) and how these value perceptions, in turn, impact shopper loyalty intention, finally leading to word‐of‐mouth (WOM) and store patronization behavior. The model was tested for measurement and structural validity, mediation by MVP, and moderation by gender. Findings suggest that: (1) e‐SQ dimensions of efficiency and fulfillment have direct effect on MVP; (2) MVP is a key mediating variable facilitating “indirect‐only” mediation between e‐SQ dimensions and online shoppers’ loyalty intentions; (3) mediation by MVP is not moderated by gender; (4) strong association between shoppers’ loyalty intention and intention to spread positive WOM; and (5) “saying” and “doing” are incompatible because online shoppers’ loyalty intentions or WOM do not translate into store patronization behavior.
Exploring nurse managers’ perception of using the RAFAELA system as a management tool in a Norwegian hospital setting
Authors: Lillehol Bodil Mørk , Lønning Kjersti , Andersen Marit Helen 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAimThe aim of the study, being part of a Norwegian evaluation project of the RAFAELA system, was to explore nurse managers’ perception of the RAFAELA system as a management tool in a Norwegian hospital setting.DesignWe applied an explorative qualitative design using focus group interviews.MethodsTwo focus group interviews were performed with 12 nurses in different management positions during autumn 2013. The principles of qualitative content analysis were used for analysing data.ResultsThree themes emerged. The informants experienced the RAFAELA system to be a basis for a precise and common langue. Furthermore, the informants considered it to be a system defining quality standards of nursing care. Finally, the RAFAELA system provided daily documentation of nursing intensity and thus was considered an important management tool for balancing patient needs with appropriate staff.
Characterizing the Pattern of Weight Loss and Regain in Adults Enrolled in a 12‐Week Internet‐Based Weight Management Program
Authors: Ross Kathryn M. , Qiu Peihua , You Lu , Wing Rena R. 
Published: December 2017

ObjectiveAlthough the trajectory of weight change during and/or after behavioral weight management interventions is believed to include a period of weight loss followed by maintenance and later regain, the sparse data produced by existing study designs (conducting assessments at 3‐ to 6‐month intervals) have limited investigation into the precise pattern.MethodsSeventy‐five adults were asked to self‐weigh daily via “smart” scales during a 12‐week, Internet‐based weight loss program and for an additional 9 months with no further intervention. Longitudinal change‐point mixed‐effect models were used to characterize overall weight change patterns and identify when individuals moved from weight loss to maintenance/regain.ResultsAnalyses suggested a three‐phase model. During the first phase, participants lost weight at a (mean ± SE) rate of −0.46 ± 0.04 kg/wk; after 77.66 ± 3.96 days, they transitioned to regain (0.07 ± 0.02 kg/wk). The next transition occurred at 222.55 ± 7.23 days, after which the rate of regain decreased slightly (0.06 ± 0.02 kg/wk). Exploratory analyses identified baseline/demographic factors predicting the timing of transition points and slope of weight change within phases.ConclusionsIn contrast to the hypothesized trajectory, results demonstrated that participants transitioned immediately from weight loss to regain (with no “maintenance” period) and later to a slower rate of regain. Future studies should investigate whether extended‐care programs change or merely delay this pattern.
Simultaneous model predictive control and moving horizon estimation for blood glucose regulation in Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Copp David A. , Gondhalekar Ravi , Hespanha João P. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryA new estimation and control approach for the feedback control of an artificial pancreas to treat Type 1 diabetes mellitus is proposed. In particular, we present a new output‐feedback predictive control approach that simultaneously solves the state estimation and control objectives by means of a single min‐max optimization problem. This involves optimizing a cost function with both finite forward and backward horizons with respect to the unknown initial state, unmeasured disturbances and noise, and future control inputs and is similar to simultaneously solving a model predictive control (MPC) problem and a moving horizon estimation (MHE) problem. We incorporate a novel asymmetric output cost to penalize dangerous low blood glucose values more severely than less harmful high blood glucose values. We compare this combined MPC/MHE approach to a control strategy that uses state‐feedback MPC preceded by a Luenberger observer for state estimation. In‐silico results showcase several advantages of this new simultaneous MPC/MHE approach, including fewer hypoglycemic events without increasing the number of hyperglycemic events, faster insulin delivery in response to a meal consumption, and shorter insulin pump suspensions, resulting in smoother blood glucose trajectories.
The Impact of Providing Vision Screening and Free Eyeglasses on Academic Outcomes: Evidence from a Randomized Trial in Title I Elementary Schools in Florida
Authors: Glewwe Paul , West Kristine L. , Lee Jongwook 
Published: December 2017

AbstractMore than 20 percent of all school‐aged children in the United States have vision problems, and low‐income and minority children are disproportionately likely to have unmet vision care needs. Vision screening is common in U.S. schools, but it remains an open question whether screening alone is sufficient to improve student outcomes. We implemented a multi‐armed randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the impact of vision screening, and of vision screening accompanied by eye exams and eyeglasses, provided by a non‐profit organization to Title I elementary schools in three large central Florida school districts. We find that providing additional/enhanced screening alone is generally insufficient to improve student achievement in math and reading. In contrast, providing screening along with free eye exams and free eyeglasses to students with vision problems improved student achievement as measured by standardized test scores. We find, averaging over all students (including those without vision problems), that this more comprehensive intervention increased the probability of passing the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Tests (FCATs) in reading and math by approximately 2.0 percentage points. We also present evidence that indicates that this impact fades out over time, indicating that follow‐up actions after the intervention may be necessary to sustain these estimated achievement gains.
Morphological, dielectric, tunable electromagnetic interference shielding and thermal characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotube incorporated polymer nanocomposites: A facile, environmentally benign and cost effective approach realized via polymer latex/waterborne polymer as matrix
Authors: George Gejo , Simon Sanu Mathew , Prakashan V.P. , Sajna M.S. , Faisal Muhammad , Chandran Anoop , Wilson Runcy , Biju P.R. , Joseph Cyriac , Unnikrishnan N.V. 
Published: December 2017

Recent years have witnessed an increased interest in the designing of composite materials in an uncomplicated and economical route for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding applications. Herein we report a simple; user friendly and cost effective method comprising of aqueous emulsion of polypropylene (PP) being used as the polymer matrix to manufacture uniformly and efficiently dispersed multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) incorporated PP composites with excellent electrical conductivity and EMI shielding potential; making use of non‐conventional fabrication techniques. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and field emission SEM (FE‐SEM) analysis revealed the uniform distribution of MWCNT's throughout the PP matrix. The dielectric constant and ac conductivity of the 20 wt% MWCNT incorporated sample showcased few order magnitude increment with the ac conductivity reaching as high as ∼66 S/m. Exemplary EMI shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of ∼57 dB (S band), ∼47 dB (X band), and ∼44 dB (Ku band) was achieved during this study over a broad range of microwave frequency. The composites illustrated marginally improved thermal stability compared to that of neat PP; and the onset crystallization and crystallization temperatures increased with increasing MWCNT concentration. This simple process can be utilized to prepare fine tuned composites/blends of polypropylene with nanofillers/incompatible polymers easily and effectively. Present work also suggests that designing polymer composites based on matrices dispersed in aqueous media is a promising approach to prepare nanocomposites with high filler loading and tunable properties. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:E1169–E1183, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Solar cell efficiency tables (version 51)
Authors: Green Martin A. , Hishikawa Yoshihiro , Dunlop Ewan D. , Levi Dean H. , Hohl‐Ebinger Jochen , Ho‐Baillie Anita W.Y. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractConsolidated tables showing an extensive listing of the highest independently confirmed efficiencies for solar cells and modules are presented. Guidelines for inclusion of results into these tables are outlined and new entries since July 2017 are reviewed, together with progress over the last 25 years. Appendices are included documenting area definitions and also listing recognised test centres.
Inheritance and fitness costs of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) resistance to spinosad in Brazil
Authors: Okuma Daniela M , Bernardi Daniel , Horikoshi Renato J , Bernardi Oderlei , Silva Aline P , Omoto Celso 
Published: December 2017

AbstractBACKGROUNDSpodoptera frugiperda is a pest of economically important crops in South America. In Brazil, this species is considered the most destructive pest of maize. Use of spinosyn insecticides in insect resistance management (IRM) has been one strategy to control this pest. In this study, we selected a strain of S. frugiperda resistant to spinosad and evaluated the inheritance and fitness costs of the resistance.RESULTSEstimated LC50 (concentration required to kill 50% of larvae) values were 0.011 and 9.80 µg cm−2 for the spinosad‐susceptible (Sus) and ‐resistant (Spin‐res) strains, respectively. This represents an 890‐fold resistance ratio. LC50 values for reciprocal crosses were 0.18 and 0.14 µg cm−2, indicating that resistance to spinosad is an autosomal incompletely recessive trait. Backcrosses of the F1 progeny from reciprocal crosses with the parental Spin‐res strain showed a polygenic effect. The estimated minimum number of independent segregations was ∼ 2.45, indicating that resistance to spinosad is associated with multiple genes. In greenhouse assays, third‐instar larvae from the Spin‐res strain showed >92% survival on spinosad‐treated maize. By contrast Sus and reciprocal crosses exhibited 0% and <5% survival, respectively, indicating that resistance is recessive. Life history studies to investigate the fitness cost of resistance revealed a 41% reduction in the rate of survival to adulthood and a 49% lower reproductive rate in the Spin‐res strain compared with the Sus strain.CONCLUSIONSThe autosomal, incompletely recessive and polygenic resistance to spinosad in S. frugiperda and the fitness costs associated with this resistance can be exploited in IRM strategies to preserve the lifetime of spinosad for control of S. frugiperda in Brazil. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Formation of Ag nanoparticles under electron beam irradiation: Atomistic origins from first‐principles calculations
Authors: Andrés Juan , Gouveia Amanda Fernandes , Gracia Lourdes , Longo Elson , Manzeppi Faccin Giovani , da Silva Edison Zacarias , Pereira Douglas Henrique , San‐Miguel Miguel Angel 
Published: December 2017

AbstractThe formation of Ag nanoparticles is currently a topic subject to a great deal of research because they are excellent materials with many technological applications. Recently, the formation of Ag nanoparticles on α‐Ag2WO4semiconductors induced by electron irradiation has been reported, but the mechanism underlying the transformations remains elusive. The aim of this article is to describe the mechanisms of electron beam irradiation on α‐Ag2WO4and its transformation to form Ag nanoparticles in vacuum conditions. To this end, a combined study involving experiments and multiscale computational approaches (density functional theory calculations and molecular dynamics simulations) is presented. With the increasing interplay between experimental and computational approaches at multiple length scales, we will also discuss how these combined data can be used to provide a deep insight into the rationalization of electron beam‐induced transformations. This phenomenon is likely to be promoted by electron charge redistribution in these materials due to electronic excitations combined with the formation of silver vacancies under electron beam irradiation. As this mechanism should be relevant to other Ag‐based materials, our results provide pointers for the further development and optimization of electron beam‐mediated engineering of the atomic structure and electronic properties at the atomic resolution.
Mechanistic study of CO/CO2 conversion catalyzed by a biomimetic Ni(II)‐iminothiolate complex
Authors: Wu Yueshen , Rudshteyn Benjamin , Warnke Ingolf , Xiao Dequan , Batista Victor S. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractWe investigate the CO oxidation into CO2 catalyzed by a biomimetic Ni(II)‐iminothiolate complex in the presence of the sacrificial oxidizing agent methylviologen. We propose a catalytic mechanism supported by the density functional theory analysis of reaction intermediates that agrees with available experimental observations and kinetic data. We rule out a five‐coordinate Ni(II) species as well as a Ni(III) intermediate which was previously proposed and instead identify a key four‐coordinate Ni(II) carbonyl species. We find that the turnover‐limiting step is likely the formation of the Ni(II) carboxylic acid species, although if a worse oxidant were used or if the concentration was less, then the oxidation of the Ni(I) species would be the turnover‐limiting step. The reported findings should enable the design of better catalysts to favor one of the two competing pathways for CO to CO2 conversion as catalyzed by this particular complex.