bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resource‐Saving Production of Dialdehyde Cellulose: Optimization of the Process at High Pulp Consistency
Authors: Lucia Arianna , van Herwijnen Hendrikus W.G. , Oberlerchner Josua T. , Rosenau Thomas , Beaumont Marco
Published: August 2019

Oxidation of cellulose with periodate under aqueous conditions yields dialdehyde cellulose, a promising functional cellulose derivative. The main obstacles for this oxidation have been its slow kinetics and the dilute reaction conditions, requiring considerable amounts of water and energy. In this study, these drawbacks are overcome by conducting the oxidation at high cellulosic pulp consistency with a cellulose/water weight ratio of 1:4. The oxidizer, cellulose, and water are efficiently mixed in a ball mill. Oxidation occurs mostly in the subsequent step, during the resting time (no further milling/mixing is required). The reaction and resource efficiency of the process are optimized by experimental design and a maximum aldehyde content of 8 mmol g−1 is obtained with a periodate/cellulose molar ratio of 1.25, a milling time of 2 min, and a resting time of 8 h. The developed method allows fine tuning of the oxidation level and is a key step towards the sustainable periodate oxidation of cellulose also on larger scale.
Simulation of a chirped femtosecond relativistic laser pulse interaction with underdense plasma by using a hydrodynamic approach
Authors: Li Gang , Zhu Bin , Wu Yuchi , Lu Feng , Tan Fang , Zhang Tiankui , Yang Yue , Yu Minghai , Yan Yonghong , Fan Wei , Gu Yuqiu
Published: August 2019

A chirped laser pulse indicates that the laser frequency changes over the duration of the pulse: a positively (negatively) chirped pulse implies that the laser frequency increases (decreases) with time. In this paper, we use a simplified, fully relativistic hydrodynamic approach to simulate the influence of chirp on the propagation of a femtosecond relativistic laser pulse in underdense plasma. Based on this simplified cold‐fluid model, the influence of chirp on the main dynamics of the laser pulse, such as self‐steepening, red‐shift in the leading edge, variation of the frequency chirp, and the generated wakefields can be studied self‐consistently. The simulation results show that a pulse with a positive chirp results in a larger increment in the intensity parameter a0 when propagating a certain distance into an underdense plasma compared with an un‐chirped and a negatively chirped pulse, which is largely because of a much greater forward shift of the peak amplitude and more severe pulse self‐steepening effect due to the frequency red‐shift at the leading edge when exciting a plasma wave. The ponderomotive force, which relates to the first‐order differential of the laser pulse intensity envelope, is expected to be stronger for a positively chirped pulse because of its steeper leading edge and larger intensity parameter a0. As a result, the wakefield driven by the positively chirped laser pulse is more intense than that driven by an un‐chirped and a negatively chirped laser pulse, which is confirmed by our self‐consistent hydrodynamic simulation.
Hypotheses and tracking results about the longest migration: The case of the arctic tern
Authors: Alerstam Thomas , Bäckman Johan , Grönroos Johanna , Olofsson Patrik , Strandberg Roine
Published: August 2019

The arctic tern Sterna paradisaea completes the longest known annual return migration on Earth, traveling between breeding sites in the northern arctic and temperate regions and survival/molt areas in the Antarctic pack‐ice zone. Salomonsen (1967, Biologiske Meddelelser, Copenhagen Danske Videnskabernes Selskab, 24, 1) put forward a hypothetical comprehensive interpretation of this global migration pattern, suggesting food distribution, wind patterns, sea ice distribution, and molt habits as key ecological and evolutionary determinants. We used light‐level geolocators to record 12 annual journeys by eight individuals of arctic terns breeding in the Baltic Sea. Migration cycles were evaluated in light of Salomonsen's hypotheses and compared with results from geolocator studies of arctic tern populations from Greenland, Netherlands, and Alaska. The Baltic terns completed a 50,000 km annual migration circuit, exploiting ocean regions of high productivity in the North Atlantic, Benguela Current, and the Indian Ocean between southern Africa and Australia (sometimes including the Tasman Sea). They arrived about 1 November in the Antarctic zone at far easterly longitudes (in one case even at the Ross Sea) subsequently moving westward across 120–220 degrees of longitude toward the Weddell Sea region. They departed from here in mid‐March on a fast spring migration up the Atlantic Ocean. The geolocator data revealed unexpected segregation in time and space between tern populations in the same flyway. Terns from the Baltic and Netherlands traveled earlier and to significantly more easterly longitudes in the Indian Ocean and Antarctic zone than terns from Greenland. We suggest an adaptive explanation for this pattern. The global migration system of the arctic tern offers an extraordinary possibility to understand adaptive values and constraints in complex pelagic life cycles, as determined by environmental conditions (marine productivity, wind patterns, low‐pressure trajectories, pack‐ice distribution), inherent factors (flight performance, molt, flocking), and effects of predation/piracy and competition.
Future hydrological constraints of the Montseny brook newt (Calotriton arnoldi) under changing climate and vegetation cover
Authors: Ledesma José L. J. , Montori Albert , Altava‐Ortiz Vicent , Barrera‐Escoda Antonio , Cunillera Jordi , Àvila Anna
Published: August 2019

The Montseny brook newt (Calotriton arnoldi) is a critically endangered amphibian species which inhabits a small 20 km2 holm oak and beech forest area in NE Spain. Calotriton arnoldi strictly lives in running waters and might be highly vulnerable to hydrological perturbations expected to occur under climate and vegetation cover changes. Knowledge about the potential response of the species habitat to environmental changes can help assessing the actions needed for its conservation. Based on knowledge of the species and supported by observations, we proposed daily low and high streamflow event thresholds for the viability of C. arnoldi. We used the rainfall–runoff model PERSiST to simulate changes in the frequency and duration of these events, which were predicted under two climate and four vegetation cover scenarios for near‐future (2031–2050) and far‐future (2081–2100) periods in a reference catchment. All future scenarios projected a significant decrease in annual streamflow (from 21% to as much as 67%) with respect to the reference period. The frequency and length of low streamflow events will dramatically increase. In contrast, the risk of catastrophic drift linked to high streamflow events was predicted to decrease. The potential change in vegetation toward an expansion of holm oak forests will be more important than climate changes in determining threshold low flow conditions. We thus demonstrated that consideration of potential changes in vegetation and not only changes in climate variables is essential in simulating future streamflows. This study shows that future low streamflow conditions will pose a severe threat for the survival of C. arnoldi and may help taking management actions, including limiting the expansion of holm oak forest, for ameliorating the species habitat and help its conservation.
Land use change and the migration geography of Greater White‐fronted geese in European Russia
Authors: Grishchenko Mikhail , Prins Herbert H. T. , Ydenberg Ronald C. , Schaepman Michael E. , de Boer Willem F. , de Knegt Henrik J.
Published: August 2019

Large areas of agricultural land have been abandoned in European Russia since 1991, triggering succession toward more wooded landscapes, especially in northern regions where conditions for agriculture are more challenging. We hypothesize that this process has contributed to a southward shift by migratory Atlantic Greater White‐fronted geese, as stopover sites in northern Russia became progressively less suitable. To test this hypothesis, we located stopover sites from information contained in 2976 ring recoveries and sightings of neck‐collared geese. These records were divided into three time periods, chosen to reflect major changes in the economy and land use of European Russia: 1960–1990, 1991–2000, and 2001–2013. We used a kernel density estimator grid to delineate areas surrounding 300 putative stopover sites, and statistically evaluated the effects of latitude, distance to nearest waterbody, settlement, and period on stopover site usage by geese. Our results show that over the three periods, usage of the stopover sites has shifted southward, indicating that Greater White‐fronted geese have shifted their migration pathway, with the greatest shift in the most recent period. This shift was confirmed by a highly significant squared latitude term and significant interaction term between periods. The nearest settlements showed no significant effect on stopover site usage while the nearest waterbody term was negative, suggesting higher waterbody densities contributed to higher densities of stopover sites. We attribute the shift to the successional reforestation of the Russian landscape that has followed widespread land abandonment, especially that following the break‐up of the formerUSSR.
Remotely piloted aircraft improve precision of capture–mark–resight population estimates of Australian fur seals
Authors: Sorrell Karina J. , Clarke Rohan H. , Holmberg Ross , McIntosh Rebecca R.
Published: August 2019

Remotely piloted aircraft (RPA or drones) have become a powerful tool for use in spatial and temporal ecology. Major benefits for environmental management, including improved accuracy and precision for population monitoring of fauna, are being realized. We used Australian fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus) as a model system to assess how counts and capture–mark–resight (CMR) estimates derived from RPA surveys compared with both traditionally used ground counts and CMR abundance estimates at two colonies in southeastern Australia. To manage the large volume of data, we implemented a citizen science portal SealSpotter to screen RPA imagery for animals of the target age classes. Capture–mark–resight estimates and direct counts using RPA imagery provided measurable improvement in monitoring precision when compared with traditional techniques. A key methodological assumption of CMR estimates is that there is uniform mixing of marked animals across the focal area. This was also validated using spatial data derived from images and linear models, a novel capability of the RPA technique. Our findings have the potential to improve wildlife monitoring techniques for fur seals and are broadly transferable to a wide range of other animal taxa where CMR techniques are employed. Furthermore, they add to the growing body of evidence that demonstrates the benefits of RPAs for wildlife monitoring exceed those of traditional techniques.
Role of AIM2 inflammasome in inflammatory diseases, cancer and infection
Authors: Sharma Bhesh Raj , Karki Rajendra , Kanneganti Thirumala‐Devi
Published: August 2019

AIM2 is a cytosolic innate immune receptor which recognizes double‐stranded DNA (dsDNA) released during cellular perturbation and pathogenic assault. AIM2 recognition of dsDNA leads to the assembly of a large multiprotein oligomeric complex termed the inflammasome. This inflammasome assembly leads to the secretion of bioactive interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and IL‐18 and induction of an inflammatory form of cell death called pyroptosis. Sensing of dsDNA by AIM2 in the cytosol is crucial to mediate protection against the invading pathogens including bacteria, virus, fungi and parasites. AIM2 also responds to dsDNA released from damaged host cells, resulting in the secretion of the effector cytokines thereby driving the progression of sterile inflammatory diseases such as skin disease, neuronal disease, chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Additionally, the protection mediated by AIM2 in the development of colorectal cancer depends on its ability to regulate epithelial cell proliferation and gut microbiota in maintaining intestinal homeostasis independently of the effector cytokines. In this review, we will highlight the recent progress on the role of the AIM2 inflammasome as a guardian of cellular integrity in modulating chronic inflammatory diseases, cancer and infection.
A 1D mean line model for centrifugal compressors with variable inlet guide vanes
Authors: Dewar Brett , Creamer Mike , Dotcheva Mariana , Radulovic Jovana , Buick James M.
Published: August 2019

This paper considers a 1D in‐line analytical model for centrifugal compressors with variable inlet guide vanes. A theoretical 1D model is developed to predict the effect of varying the inlet guide vane angle at different rotational speeds. An iterative algorithm is presented, which provides a fast and efficient method for evaluating the performance of the compressor under different operating conditions. The results from the analytical 1D model are presented and compared to full 3D CFD (computational fluid dynamics) simulations. The simulations validate the assumptions used in the 1D model and show good agreement between the two approaches over a range of vane angles. Qualitatively, both demonstrate the same trends as the vane angle and rotational velocities are varied. Quantitatively, the pressure ratio was found to agree within 8% and the temperature gain to within 15%. The 1D model was then modified to introduce a 5% loss in the diffuser and this was found to improve the 1D model predictions, with the pressure within 2% of the CFD value.
Synthesis and Analysis of Nonoxidative Methane Aromatization Strategies
Authors: Huang Kefeng , Maravelias Christos T.
Published: August 2019

As an abundant, versatile, and cleaner resource, natural gas is underutilized for high‐value chemicals production. Herein, single‐step natural gas conversion technologies that directly produce aromatics and hydrogen from methane are studied. Yet, methane aromatization (MA) is challenging due to low conversion and rapid catalyst deactivation. Accordingly, a reactor model based on thermodynamic equilibrium that allows systematic evaluation of key process variables (e.g., conversion temperature, conversion pressure, and H2 removal) is developed. Then, process synthesis and modeling are utilized to assess the economic viability and identify the key technology gaps for various MA technology alternatives. The results of the analyses indicate that conversion temperature and H2 removal have large impacts on aromatics one‐pass yield and coke formation. The combined conversion conditions, which lead to a minimum 20% aromatics one‐pass yield, are likely required for an economically feasible MA process. In addition, lower conversion temperature (<700 °C) is favorable to maintain coke formation less than 20%. The analysis suggests that further efforts should be devoted to reduce overall capital cost and expand production scale.
Combined Partial Oxidation of Methane to Synthesis Gas and Production of Hydrogen or Carbon Monoxide in a Fluidized Bed using Lattice Oxygen
Authors: Donat Felix , Xu Yongqing , Müller Christoph R.
Published: August 2019

Perovskite‐based oxygen carriers have shown promise for the partial oxidation of methane in fixed bed reactors, but they have not been investigated in detail in bubbling fluidized bed reactors, where bypassing of the methane and backmixing of the product gas can occur. Herein, using a lanthanum strontium ferrite (La0.85Sr0.15FeO3) as the oxygen carrier, it is demonstrated that excellent performance can be achieved in a fluidized bed reactor for both the partial oxidation of methane during reduction of the oxygen carrier and the carbon dioxide or water‐splitting reactions during reoxidation of the oxygen carrier in a chemical looping fashion. The effective oxygen storage capacity is >10 wt%, allowing to produce >6 mol of synthesis gas with a ratio of hydrogen to carbon monoxide slightly below 2 during partial oxidation, and >6 mol of carbon monoxide or hydrogen during reoxidation per kilogram of oxygen carrier in a complete redox cycle. The selectivity toward synthesis gas is >99% and the conversion of carbon dioxide to carbon monoxide (or steam to hydrogen) is ≈97% (or ≈94%) at temperatures >900 °C.
Study of the adsorbate–adsorbent interaction potential: Ethanol‐activated carbon AC35
Authors: Benkahla Noujoud , Mhiri Foued
Published: August 2019

In this study, a mathematical model of the adsorbate–adsorbent interaction potential as a function of the pore radius in the case of the adsorption of a gas by a microporous solid is proposed. The suggested mathematical model is based on the flow concept: the flow of the quantity of adsorbed material is proportional to the variation of the potential. The experimental study of the flow enabled us to determine the expression of the variation of the potential, and through integration, to state the expression of the latter. The experimental curve of the flux as a function of the pore radius includes a point of inflection. Mathematically, this type of curve is described by two equations. One corresponds to the adsorption in micropores and mesopores [r0 < r ≤ r2], whereas the other corresponds to the adsorption by macropores and the lateral surface of the activated carbon grain AC35 [r2 ≤ r]. This implies the existence of two types of interaction forces between the adsorbate molecules and the adsorbent. This study confirms the concordance of the two adsorption models (Dubinin–Astakov and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) with the experiment. In addition, the proposed mathematical model will allow to perform quantification studies of the energy that is exchanged during adsorption.
Dynamic network service deployment across multiple SDN domains
Authors: Zhang Chuangchuang , Wang Xingwei , Dong Anwei , Zhao Yong , Huang Min , Li Fuliang
Published: August 2019

The integration of software defined networking (SDN) and network function virtualization (NFV) is a promising approach to support flexible service deployment and provisioning. In particular, NFV enables a network service to be represented as one network service function chain, which is composed of several virtual network functions in a specific order. However, with regard to service provisioning in multidomain SDN networks, virtual network functions are deployed in several different SDN domains due to limited resource capacity of each SDN domain. It results in the network service deployment complexity increase and causes additional operating cost. On the other hand, most current network service deployment proposals are limited to static user request scenarios. How to effectively deploy network service across multiple SDN domains to satisfy dynamic service demands of end users is a challenging problem. To address the aforementioned challenge, in this paper, we study the problem of dynamic network service deployment across multiple SDN domains. Specifically, we first design a novel service deployment framework to support dynamic deployment and optimization of virtual network function in multidomain SDN networks. Then, we formulate the problem as a multiobjective optimization problem with the target of jointly minimizing resource consumption cost and operating cost. Furthermore, we transform the multiobjective optimization problem into a single objective optimization model and present an efficient heuristic service deployment approach to solve it by leveraging Dijkstra algorithm. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed service deployment method is efficient and outperforms comparison methods in terms of service rejection ratio, resource cost, and operating cost.
Identification of five long noncoding RNAs signature and risk score for prognosis of bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Chuanjie , Li Zongtai , Hu Jiateng , Qi Feng , Li Xiao , Luo Jun
Published: August 2019

Nowadays, an increasing number of studies illustrated that bladder urothelial cancer (BLCA) may act as the most common subtype of urological malignancies with a high rate of recurrence and metastasis. In this study, we attempted to establish a prognostic model and identify the possible pathway crosstalk. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and mRNA expression and corresponding clinical information of patients with BLCA were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The differentially expressed genes analysis, univariate Cox analysis, the least absolute shrinkage, and selection operator Cox (LASSO Cox) regression model were then applied to identify five crucial lncRNAs (AC092725.1, AC104071.1, AL023584.1, AL132642.1, and AL137804.1). The multivariate cox analysis was utilized to calculate the regression coefficients (βi). The risk‐score model was subsequently constructed as follows: (0.13541AC092725.1) + (0.20968AC104071.1) + (0.1525AL023584.1) − (0.14768AL132642.1) + (0.14387AL137804.1). Nomogram and assessment of overall survival (OS) prediction were verificated by the receiver operating characteristic curve in the testing group. As to 3‐, 5‐year OS prediction, the area under curve (AUC) for the nomogram of training data set was 0.83 and 0.86. Besides, the AUC (0.883 and 0.879) presented excellent predictive power in the testing group. In addition, the calibration plots validated the predictive performance of the nomogram. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) coupled with functional enrichment analysis contributed to explore the potential pathways, including PI3K‐Akt, HIF‐1, and Jak‐STAT signaling pathways. Construction of the risk‐score model and data analysis were both derived from multiple packages on the basis of the R platform chiefly.
The cultural, family and community factors for resilience in southeast asian indigenous communities: A systematic review
Authors: Chua Ryan Yumin , Kadirvelu Amudha , Yasin Shajahan , Choudhry Fahad Riaz , Park Miriam Sang‐Ah
Published: August 2019

Although faced with historical and ongoing hardships, many indigenous communities in Southeast Asia have managed to survive and thrive. The identification of factors that assist these communities in coping with the challenges experienced would help enhance their overall psychological well‐being and resilience. The current review outlines types of protective factors for the indigenous communities in Southeast Asia focusing on the cultural, family and community elements linked to their psychological well‐being. Four themes of protective factors were identified strong connection to the land and the environment, embracing cultural norms and traditions, passing down and keeping indigenous knowledge across generations, and emphasis on community and social cohesion. Findings suggest that the value of interconnectedness serves as an overarching theme that forms the worldview of the indigenous communities in Southeast Asia. Interconnectedness was important to the indigenous peoples as they considered themselves to be extensions of their family, community, ancestors, future descendants, the land and to all living things and creations that reside on their lands. Future intervention attempts to promote resilience among these communities should take these factors into account, and pay closer attention to community‐level factors that seem to have a profound impact on the indigenous construction of resilience.
Effect of horizontal margin status and risk of local recurrence after endoscopic submucosal dissection for superficial esophageal cancer
Authors: Fukuda Hiromu , Ishihara Ryu , Shimamoto Yusaku , Kono Mitsuhiro , Nakagawa Kentaro , Ohmori Masayasu , Matsuno Kenshi , Iwagami Hiroyoshi , Inoue Shuntaro , Iwatsubo Taro , Nakahira Hiroko , Matsuura Noriko , Shichijo Satoki , Maekawa Akira , Kanesaka Takashi , Takeuchi Yoji , Higashino Koji , Uedo Noriya , Kitamura Masanori , Nakatsuka Shinichi
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) sometimes results in en bloc resection with a positive or inconclusive horizontal margin (HM1 or HMX, respectively) on histological evaluation. The specific risk for such situations is unclear. We therefore investigated the outcome of ESD with HM1 or HMX.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study was performed at Osaka International Cancer Institute. A total of 886 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma lesions in 749 patients treated from April 2005 to June 2015 were evaluated according to the following inclusion criteria: en bloc resection with no residual lesion, HM1 or HMX status, no prior treatment, and no additional treatment. We classified HM1 and HMX into type A, in which cancer was exposed on the HM, and type B, in which the HM status was unclear because of mechanical or thermal damage. We further classified type B according to the distance between the cancer and the edge of the specimen: type B1, <1 mm and type B2, ≥1 mm.

Results

The resection margin was judged as HM1 or HMX in 5.0% (39/767; 95% confidence interval, 3.5–6.6%) of the en bloc resected specimens. Of 39 lesions, 30 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Local recurrence developed in 8 of 30 lesions (26.7%). The local recurrence rates for types A, B1, and B2 were 40% (6/15 lesions), 28.5% (2/7 lesions), and 0.0% (0/8 lesions), respectively.

Conclusions

Although a statistical analysis was not conducted because of the limited events, the pathological HM status may be a useful predictor of local recurrence.
Influence of Age on Global and Regional Brain Stiffness in Young and Middle‐Aged Adults
Authors: Takamura Tomohiro , Motosugi Utaroh , Sasaki Yu , Kakegawa Takashi , Sato Kazuyuki , Glaser Kevin J. , Ehman Richard L. , Onishi Hiroshi
Published: August 2019

Background

An understanding of potential age‐related changes in brain stiffness and its regional variation is important for further clinical application of MR elastography.

Purpose

To investigate the effect of age on global and regional brain stiffness in young and middle‐aged adults.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Fifty subjects with normal brains and aged in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, or 60s (five men, five women per decade).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T MRI and elastography with a vibration frequency of 60 Hz.

Assessment

Stiffness was measured in nine brain regions (cerebrum, temporal lobes, sensorimotor areas, frontotemporal composite region, deep gray matter and white matter (deep GM/WM), parietal lobes, occipital lobes, frontal lobes, and cerebellum) using an atlas‐based region‐of‐interest approach. The influence of age on regional brain stiffness was evaluated.

Statistical Tests

Multiple linear regression analysis, followed by Dunnett's multiple comparisons test, using subjects in their 20s as controls.

Results

Following adjustment for sex, multiple linear regression revealed a significant negative correlation between age and stiffness of the cerebrum (P < 0.0001), temporal lobes (P < 0.0001), sensorimotor areas (P < 0.0001), frontotemporal composite region (P < 0.0001), deep GM/WM (P = 0.0028), parietal lobes (P < 0.0001), occipital lobes (P = 0.0055), and frontal lobes (P < 0.0001). Dunnett's multiple comparison test showed that the stiffness of the sensorimotor areas, frontotemporal composite region, and frontal lobes was significantly decreased in subjects in their 40s (P < 0.0367), 50s (P < 0.0001), and 60s (P < 0.0001), while that of the cerebrum, temporal lobes, and parietal lobes was significantly decreased only in subjects in their 50s (P < 0.0012) and 60s (P < 0.0031) when compared with the controls.

Data Conclusion

There is an age‐related decrease in brain stiffness that varies across the different regions.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy Stage: 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:727–733.
Staging Clavicular Development on MRI: Pitfalls and Suggestions for Age Estimation
Authors: De Tobel Jannick , Hillewig Elke , van Wijk Mayonne , Fieuws Steffen , de Haas Michiel Bart , van Rijn Rick R. , Thevissen Patrick Werner , Verstraete Koenraad Luc
Published: August 2019

Background

MRI of the clavicle's sternal end has been studied for age estimation. Several pitfalls have been noted, but how they affect age estimation performance remains unclear.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To further study these pitfalls and to make suggestions for a proper use of clavicle MRI for forensic age estimation. Our hypotheses were that age estimation would benefit from 1) discarding stages 1 and 4/5; 2) including advanced substages 3aa, 3ab, and 3ac; 3) taking both clavicles into account; and 4) excluding morphological variants.

Study Type

Prospective cross‐sectional.

Population

Healthy Caucasian volunteers between 11 and 30 years old (524; 277 females, 247 males).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T, T1‐weighted gradient echo volumetric interpolated breath‐hold examination (VIBE) MR‐sequence.

Assessment

Four observers applied the most elaborate staging technique for long bone development that has been described in the current literature (including stages, substages, and advanced substages). One of the observers repeated a random selection of the assessments in 110 participants after a 2‐week interval. Furthermore, all observers documented morphological variants.

Statistical Tests

Weighted kappa quantified reproducibility of staging. Bayes' rule was applied for age estimation with a continuation ratio model for the distribution of the stages. According to the hypotheses, different models were tested. Mean absolute error (MAE) differences between models were compared, as were MAEs between cases with and without morphological variants.

Results

Weighted kappa equaled 0.82 for intraobserver and ranged between 0.60 and 0.64 for interobserver agreement. Stages 1 and 4/5 were allocated interchangeably in 4.3% (54/1258). Age increased steadily in advanced substages of stage 3, but improvement in age estimation was not significant (right P = 0.596; left P = 0.313). The model that included both clavicles and discarded stages 1 and 4/5 yielded an MAE of 1.97 years, a root mean squared error of 2.60 years, and 69% correctly classified minors. Morphological variants rendered significantly higher MAEs (right 3.84 years, P = 0.015; left 2.93 years, P = 0.022).

Data Conclusion

Our results confirmed hypotheses 3) and 4), while hypotheses 1) and 2) remain to be investigated in larger studies.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;51:377–388.
Sex differences in limbic network and risk‐taking propensity in healthy individuals
Authors: Bajaj Sahil , Killgore William D. S.
Published: August 2019

Little is known about the structural neural substrates that may contribute to sex differences in risk‐taking propensity (RTP). A close association between risk‐seeking behavior and the emotional‐regulation network led us to hypothesize that the sex differences in RTP would be associated with sex differences in brain morphometry of the limbic network (LN). We collected RTP scores using the bubble sheet version of the evaluation of risk (EVAR) scale and neuroanatomical data from 57 healthy individuals (29 males). The EVAR scale included sub‐scales measuring recklessness/impulsivity, self‐confidence, and need for control (NFC). We observed significant sex differences in NFC showing greater desire for control and dominance in males than females (multivariate analysis of covariance, MANCOVAN: p = .01). Morphometry analysis showed that it was only the right LN, which showed significant sex differences in normalized surface area, normalized cortical volume, and adjusted mean curvature index (females > males) at p < .01 (MANCOVAN, corrected for multiple comparisons). Correlation analysis showed that greater curvature of the right LN was significantly associated with lower desire for control in high‐risk events (r = −.31, p = .02 at 95% CI of [−0.53, –0.05]). Our findings suggest that the normalized cortical measures could indicate specific sex differences in brain morphometry, particularly within the LN. The curvature index was the only differentiating factor for greater/lower propensity for risk‐taking behavior in overall sample. Therefore, the LN and the curvature measures could be key biomarkers, which play an important role in predicting risk‐taking behavior.
Do you only have yourself to blame? A meta‐analytic test of the victim precipitation model
Authors: Dhanani Lindsay Y. , Main Amanda M. , Pueschel Andrew
Published: August 2019

The current meta‐analysis sought to evaluate the empirical evidence for the victim precipitation model, which has become an increasingly popular yet controversial theory in the organizational sciences. We did so by testing the prediction that some victim dispositional traits contribute to or provoke experiences of mistreatment. We additionally provided preliminary examinations of two distinct conceptual explanations underlying the empirical relationships between victim personality and mistreatment. Finally, we examined the support for the situational antecedents of experienced mistreatment to compare the relative evidence for each of these dominant theoretical explanations. Results for the tests of the victim precipitation model showed that only victim negative affectivity was consistently related to experienced mistreatment. Examinations of the explanations for the relationships between victim personality and victimization showed relatively weak support for the notion that certain employees are more likely to perceive mistreatment and for the proposition that certain employees are mistreated because they are also more likely to engage in mistreatment. Finally, the situational predictors of mistreatment were all supported, and a test of relative importance revealed that the situational antecedents accounted for more variance in mistreatment than the victim dispositional traits. Implications for the theoretical understanding of the origins of mistreatment are discussed.
Relationships of West Greenland supraglacial melt‐lakes with local climate and regional atmospheric circulation
Authors: Rowley Nathan A. , Carleton Andrew M. , Fegyveresi John
Published: August 2019

Along the west‐central Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) ablation zone, the time of annual maximum occurrence of surface melt‐lakes, or peak lake period (PLP) averages June 18–July 3. This study combines atmospheric reanalysis and automatic weather station data from the Greenland Climate Network to assess the roles of synoptic circulation patterns and local climate variables, respectively, in the total melt‐lake area and count in the Sermeq Kujalleq ablation region (SKAR) for the PLPs of 2000–2016. Melt‐lake information is obtained from analysis of Landsat‐7 images. Two surface climate parameters (e.g., temperature, incoming shortwave radiation) having a strong combined effect on melt‐lake area in the SKAR are the June mean temperature, and May mean incoming solar radiation (r = .96). Incorporating the May insolation into a regression equation permits predictability of total melt‐lake area for the study area into late June. June months classified as high melt correlate regionally with mid‐tropospheric ridging, warm air advection, and reduced cloud cover, while low melt June months are associated with a trough, cold advection, and greater cloud amount. A localized feature that we found to be prevalent during the high‐melt years are piteraq, or downsloping winds, which provide additional warming to the SKAR from adiabatic compression. Atmospheric circulation indices comprising the North Atlantic Oscillation index (NAOI) teleconnection and Greenland blocking index (GBI) pattern augment the reanalysis gridded data. We find statistically significant correlations of the NAOI and GBI with melt‐lake area (r = −.62 and r = .77, respectively). The correlations with melt‐lake count however, are not significant; greater combined lake area and count tend to accompany the meridional mode of high amplitude Rossby waves and/or anti‐cyclonic blocking in the Greenland sector. Determining the local and synoptic‐scale atmospheric controls on supraglacial lake variability helps clarify the role of climate in the surface hydrology of the GrIS.
Antibacterial Activity of Ag‐Hydroxyapatite Coating Against Hematogenous Infection by Methicillin‐ResistantStaphylococcus aureusin the Rat Femur
Authors: Kobatake Tomoki , Miyamoto Hiroshi , Hashimoto Akira , Ueno Masaya , Nakashima Takema , Murakami Takayuki , Noda Iwao , Shobuike Takeo , Sonohata Motoki , Mawatari Masaaki
Published: August 2019

Several antibacterial materials have been developed to prevent periprosthetic joint infection and thus prevent serious complications for patients and surgeons. However, no study has addressed the activity of antibacterial materials against hematogenous infection. The present study evaluated the antibacterial activity of a silver‐containing hydroxyapatite‐coated implant against methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) hematogenous infection. Implants coated with hydroxyapatite and silver‐hydroxyapatite were inserted into rats’ right and left femurs, respectively, after which the animals were infected withS. aureusvia a tail vessel. About 107colony‐forming units was the optimal bacterial number for the establishment ofS. aureushematogenous infection. Bacterial loads and C‐reactive protein in the blood were measured to confirm bacteremia and inflammation. Fourteen days after the infection, bacterial loads were statistically lower in the femurs containing silver‐hydroxyapatite‐coated implants than in those with hydroxyapatite‐coated implants (p = 0.022). Thus, silver‐hydroxyapatite‐coated implants might provide antibacterial activity against MRSA hematogenous infection in the postoperative period. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2655–2660, 2019
Tree ring dating using oxygen isotopes: a master chronology for central England
Authors: Loader Neil J. , Mccarroll Danny , Miles Daniel , Young Giles H. F. , Davies Darren , Ramsey Christopher Bronk
Published: August 2019

Ring‐width dendrochronology, based on matching patterns of ring width variability, works best when trees are growing under significant environmental (climatic) stress. In the UK, and elsewhere in the temperate mid‐latitudes, trees generally experience low stress, so dating is more difficult and often fails. Oxygen isotopes in tree rings passively record changes in the isotopic ratios of summer precipitation, so they carry a strong common signal, which offers potential for cross‐dating. A master chronology covering the period 1200–2000 ce was constructed using the oxygen isotope ratios of the latewood cellulose of oak samples from central England. Two independent chronologies, developed to verify the isotopic signal, were combined (n = 10 trees) and the method was evaluated by dating timbers of known age and historical timbers that could not be dated by ring‐width dendrochronology, from both within and beyond the central England region. The agreement between samples and the master chronology is exceptionally strong, allowing the dating of timbers with far fewer rings than is normally the case for ring‐width dendrochronology. Tree‐ring oxygen isotope values are more suited to correlation analysis than tree‐ring widths, so it is possible to provide t‐values that conform to Student's t‐distribution and can be converted into probabilities of error. A protocol for assigning dates using ‘stable‐isotope dendrochronology’ is proposed, which has the potential to revolutionize the dating of wooden structures and artefacts, allowing the dating of short and invariant ring sequences from young, fast‐grown trees. Such samples are commonplace throughout the historical building and archaeological records and were, until now, considered impossible to date. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Quaternary Science Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Thermal and electrical behavior of hybrid thermosets based on epoxy and maleimide resins cured with p‐aminobenzoic acid
Authors: Mustata Fanica , Tudorachi Nita , Asandulesa Mihai , Bicu Ioan
Published: August 2019

Two thermoset systems based on maleimides and diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) cured with p‐aminobenzoic acid were characterized in terms of thermal and electrical behavior. Thermal characterization has been undertaken by means of thermogravimetric analysis in nitrogen atmosphere up to 600°C using simultaneous thermogravimetric/Fourier transform infrared/mass spectrometry (TG/FT‐IR/MS) analysis. In the first stage of thermal degradation, the global kinetic parameters [activation energy (Ea) and preexponential factor (log A1 (s−1))] were calculated using the isoconversional method of Friedman. The energies variation as well as the shape of the differential thermal analysis curves suggests that the thermal decomposition process occurred in multiple stages. The evolved gases analysis was conducted by simultaneous TG/FT‐IR/MS coupled techniques. Dielectric relaxation spectroscopy characterization was also made.
Response to Glucocorticosteroids Predicts Olfactory Outcome After ESS in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Bogdanov Vasyl , Walliczek‐Dworschak Ute , Whitcroft Katherine L. , Landis Basile N. , Hummel Thomas
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Olfaction is frequently impaired in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and often improves after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Data about dynamics of olfactory changes after ESS are lacking, and little information is available concerning whether preoperatively administered glucocorticosteroids predict postoperative olfaction. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine dynamics of olfaction after ESS in relation to the effect of preoperative administration of glucocorticosteroids in CRSwNP.

Methods

This prospective study included 52 CRSwNP patients (30 men, 22 women, mean age 54 ± 14 years) divided into a control group (n = 31) subjected to ESS without preoperative steroids and a treatment group (n = 21) receiving orally administered glucocorticosteroids preoperatively.

Self‐ratings of olfaction and olfactory testing using the extended Sniffin’ Sticks test battery (threshold, discrimination and identification [TDI] score) were performed. Olfaction was measured preoperatively; after termination of glucocorticosteroid treatment (only treatment group); and 2 weeks, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

After glucocorticosteroids, TDI score significantly improved in 57% of patients, and olfactory function remained unchanged in 43%. In addition, improvement in TDI score after steroids and 3 months postoperatively were significantly correlated (r = 0.66, P = 0.01). Patients whose olfaction did not improve after glucocorticosteroids did not benefit from surgery. Regarding postoperative olfactory dynamics, TDI score reached its maximum 1 month postoperatively and decreased again approximately 3 months after surgery.

Conclusion

Glucocorticosteroids improved olfaction in CRSwNP comparable to surgery. In addition, changes in relation to steroids predicted olfactory outcome postoperatively. Regarding the olfactory dynamics, it could be demonstrated that olfactory function increased 1 month after surgery and decreased 3 months postoperatively.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 130:1616–1621, 2020
Well‐Defined End‐Functionalized Conjugated Polymers/Oligomers Exhibiting Unique Emission Properties through the End Groups: The Exclusive Synthesis by Combined Olefin Metathesis with Wittig‐type Coupling
Authors: Nomura Kotohiro
Published: August 2019

Acyclic diene metathesis polymerization using ruthenium–carbene catalysts affords defect‐free, high molecular weight poly(arylene vinylene)s containing all trans olefinic double bonds. The exclusive end‐functionalization in the resultant poly(fluorene vinylene)s or poly(phenylene vinylene)s can be attained by treating the vinyl end groups using a molybdenum–alkylidene catalyst/reagent (through olefin metathesis) followed by addition of various aldehydes (Wittig‐type coupling). Some of these end‐modified conjugated materials display unique emission properties, which are different from the original ones, through an interaction (energy transfer or structural change in the excited state) between the conjugated main chain and the end groups [oligo(thiophene)s, F‐BODIPY, etc.]. Exclusive synthesis of well‐defined, all‐trans end‐functionalized oligo(2,5‐dialkoxy‐1,4‐phenylene vinylene)s [(oligo(phenylene vinylene), alkoxy = O(CH2)2OSii
Pr3, up to 31 repeat units] is demonstrated by adopting a stepwise synthetic approach (olefin metathesis and the subsequent Wittig‐type cleavage). It is clearly demonstrated that their optical properties (especially the fluorescence spectra including photoluminescence quantum yields) are strongly affected by the end groups as well as the conjugation repeat units.
Parents' perceptions of diagnostic genetic testing for children with inherited retinal disease in China
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wang Zhirong , Huang Sijian , Sun Limei , Zhao Shiying , Zhong Yimin , Xiao Huiming , Ding Xiaoyan
Published: August 2019

Background

In this study, we aim to investigate the awareness of, attitudes toward, and experiences with diagnostic genetic testing among parents of children suspected of having inherited retinal disease (IRDs) in China.

Methods

Semistructured, face‐to‐face, and in‐depth interviews were carried out with parents of children with suspected IRDs in this qualitative study. Inductive content analysis was used for data processing.

Results

Forty‐six parents participated in our interviews, and 47.8% of them supported genetic testing for following four main reasons: to help in making informed reproductive health decisions, to prepare for novel potential treatment, to identify the underlying causes of IRDs, and to satisfy curiosity about the heredity of IRDs. Among them, 19.6% were opposed to the testing for four main reasons, namely lack of therapeutic benefit, difficulty in affording the testing cost, doubt in the accuracy of clinical diagnosis, and the presence of concerns about the limitations of genetic testing. 47.8% of the parents expressed concerns that the genetic findings might lead to potential psychological stress.

Conclusion

In this study, we showed that nearly half of the parents supported genetic testing mainly for family planning, and a fifth of the parents were opposed to the testing mainly for lack of therapeutic benefit. Moreover, half of the parents expressed concern that a positive genetic result may create potential psychological burden to the parents and children.
Use of cognitive behavioural therapy with usual physical therapy intervention for individuals who are unemployed secondary to chronic low back pain: A case series
Authors: Walston Zachary , Niles Paige , Spiker Lisa , Yake Dale
Published: August 2019

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of work absence and may influence the development of fear‐avoidance behaviours. The purpose of this case series was to examine the use of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with physical therapy (PT) for the treatment of fear‐avoidance behaviours in patients with chronic LBP who are disabled or in a period of work absence.

Case description

Four patients with high‐irritability chronic LBP who were considered as being on work absence or disability were treated in outpatient PT clinics. The intervention consisted of fundamental CBT concepts utilized in combination with a traditional PT intervention.

Outcomes

Patients were treated until the achievement of functional goals and normalized movement patterns. Pain, disability and function were measured via a numerical pain rating scale, the Oswestry Disability Index and Focus on Therapeutic Outcomes. All patients achieved the minimally clinically important difference for these measures. Fear‐avoidance behaviours decreased, as observed by an average 15‐point change in Fear‐Avoidance Behaviour Questionnaire (Physical Activity) outcomes. Patients on work absence returned to work.

Discussion

This case series describes the use of CBT in combination with a traditional PT intervention for the treatment of high‐irritability, fear‐avoidant individuals who are on disability or in a period of work absence. The results indicated that CBT may be a useful and feasible adjunct to PT and may positively influence a return to work. Further studies are needed to determine effectiveness, including randomized controlled trials.