bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evolving perceptual model of streamflow generation at the Panola Mountain Research Watershed
Authors: Aulenbach Brent T. , Hooper Richard P. , van Meerveld H. J. (Ilja) , Burns Douglas A. , Freer James E. , Shanley James B. , Huntington Thomas G. , McDonnell Jeffrey J. , Peters Norman E.
Published: March 2021

The Panola Mountain Research Watershed (PMRW) is a 41‐hectare forested catchment within the Piedmont Province of the Southeastern United States. Observations, experimentation, and numerical modelling have been conducted at Panola over the past 35 years. But to date, these studies have not been fully incorporated into a more comprehensive synthesis. Here we describe the evolving perceptual understanding of streamflow generation mechanisms at the PMRW. We show how the long‐term study has enabled insights that were initially unforeseen but are also unachievable in short‐term studies. In particular, we discuss how the accumulation of field evidence, detailed site characterization, and modelling enabled a priori hypotheses to be formed, later rejected, and then further refined through repeated field campaigns. The extensive characterization of the soil and bedrock provided robust process insights not otherwise achievable from hydrometric measurements and numerical modelling alone. We focus on two major aspects of streamflow generation: the role of hillslopes (and their connection to the riparian zone) and the role of catchment storage in controlling fluxes and transit times of water in the catchment. Finally, we present location‐independent hypotheses based on our findings at PMRW and suggest ways to assess the representativeness of PMRW in the broader context of headwater watersheds.
Cancellous Bone May Have a Greater Adaptive Strain Threshold Than Cortical Bone
Authors: Yang Haisheng , Bullock Whitney A , Myhal Alexandra , DeShield Philip , Duffy Daniel , Main Russell P
Published: March 2021

Strain magnitude has a controlling influence on bone adaptive response. However, questions remain as to how and if cancellous and cortical bone tissues respond differently to varied strain magnitudes, particularly at a molecular level. The goal of this study was to characterize the time‐dependent gene expression, bone formation, and structural response of the cancellous and cortical bone of female C57Bl/6 mice to mechanical loading by applying varying load levels (low: −3.5 N; medium: −5.2 N; high: −7 N) to the skeleton using a mouse tibia loading model. The loading experiment showed that cortical bone mass at the tibial midshaft was significantly enhanced following all load levels examined and bone formation activities were particularly elevated at the medium and high loads applied. In contrast, for the proximal metaphyseal cancellous bone, only the high load led to significant increases in bone mass and bone formation indices. Similarly, expression of genes associated with inhibition of bone formation (e.g., Sost) was altered in the diaphyseal cortical bone at all load levels, but in the metaphyseal cortico‐cancellous bone only by the high load. Finite element analysis determined that the peak tensile or compressive strains that were osteogenic for the proximal cancellous bone under the high load were significantly greater than those that were osteogenic for the midshaft cortical tissues under the low load. These results suggest that the magnitude of the strain stimulus regulating structural, cellular, and molecular responses of bone to loading may be greater for the cancellous tissues than for the cortical tissues. © 2021 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Establishment of interleukin‐18 time‐resolved fluorescence immunoassay and its preliminary application in liver disease
Authors: Zhang Li , Zhou Xiumei , Dai Yaping , Lv Chunyan , Wu Jian , Wu Qingqing , Li Ting , Wang Yigang , Xia Penguo , Pei Hao , Huang Biao
Published: March 2021

Background

To establish a time‐resolved fluorescence immunoassay of interleukin (IL)‐18 (IL‐18‐TRFIA) and detect its concentration in different liver disease serum samples.

Methods

The IL‐18 coating antibody and the Eu3+‐labeled detection antibody were used for the IL‐18‐TRFIA to detect serum IL‐18 concentration in patients with liver cancer, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, autoimmune hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and healthy controls. The double‐antibody sandwich method was used and methodological evaluation was performed.

Results

The average intra‐ and inter‐assay coefficient of variation for IL‐18‐TRFIA was 4.80% and 5.90%, respectively. The average recovery rate was 106.19 ± 3.44%. The sensitivity (10.96 pg/mL) was higher than that obtained using the ELISA method (62.5 pg/mL). The detection range was 10.96–1000 pg/mL. IL‐6 and galectin‐3 did not cross‐react with IL‐18‐TRFIA. The serum concentration of IL‐18 was (776.99; 653.48–952.39 pg/mL) in hepatitis C, (911; 775.55–1130.03 pg/mL) in fatty liver, (1048.88; 730.04–1185.10 pg/mL) in liver cancer, and (949.12; 723.70–1160.28 pg/mL) in hepatitis B. Moreover, IL‐18 serum levels were significantly higher in patients than the healthy controls (483.09; 402.52–599.70/mL) (p < 0.0001). Autoimmune hepatitis with a serum IL‐18 concentration of 571.62; 502.47–730.31 pg/mL was not significantly different from the healthy controls (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

We established a highly sensitive IL‐18‐TRFIA method that successfully detected serum IL‐18 concentrations in different liver diseases. Furthermore, IL‐18 serum concentration was higher in patients with liver cancer, hepatitis C, hepatitis B, and fatty liver disease compared to healthy controls.
Ultrastructural studies of the pecten oculi of the Garganey (Anas querquedula, Linnaeus 1758) and the Eurasian common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus chloropus, Linnaeus 1758)
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Bassuoni Naglaa F. , Hanafy Basma G.
Published: March 2021

The present study represents the first attempts to give a full anatomical comparison of the vascular pigmented pectin oculi of the diurnal activity Anas querquedula and Gallinula chloropus chloropus. For achievement of this work, 10 mature birds from each species were examined under stereo‐ and electron microscope. The pecten oculi of A. querquedula is triangular fan‐like, while in Gallinula c. thin like‐fold. In both examined birds, the pecten oculi located postero‐anteriorly intraocular just adjacent to optic nerve disc and attached to the retina by its base, while the free apex projected into vitreous body. A. querquedula had 14–15 pleats, while Gallinula c. chloropus had 22–24 pleats. In A. querquedula, all pecten pleats connected to each other apically by a connecting bridge. The pecten oculi was plicated type in A. querquedula, but folded type in Gallinula c. chloropus. In A. querquedula, the external surface of the pleats head carried 8–10 transverse ridges, in addition to the external and lateral surface of the pleat body carried numerous round prominences that indicated the presence of numerous afferent and efferent vessels. In both examined birds, there is a retinal elevated fold situated parallel to the slightly elevated basal fold which is clear and thicker in A. querquedula than in Gallinula c. chloropus. In Gallinula c. chloropus, the transverse section shows that the pleats had numerous afferent and efferent vessels capillaries. Statistical analysis comparing the relative measurements of the pecten oculi in the two examined birds showed that there was a significant difference.
Synthesis, structural characterization, biological activity, and theoretical studies of some novel thioether‐bridged 2,6‐disubstituted imidazothiadiazole analogues
Authors: Tunel Hasan , Er Mustafa , Alici Hakan , Onaran Abdurrahman , Karakurt Tuncay , Tahtaci Hakan
Published: March 2021

In this study, thioether‐bridged imidazo[2,1‐b][1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives that contained both imidazole and 1,3,4‐thiadiazole (compounds 7a‐7i and 8a‐8i) were synthesized from the reactions of 2‐amino‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole with phenacyl bromide (6a‐6i) (at yields of 59% to 74%). The structure of the synthesized compounds was characterized using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, mass spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction analysis. Mycelial growth, mycelial growth inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum fungicidal concentration, and lethal dose values against various plant pathogenic fungi were determined for all of the target compounds synthesized in the study. The test results showed that most of the compounds had moderate to good antifungal activity. In addition, the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion (ADME) parameters of the compounds were calculated, and it was observed that all of the compounds met the drug‐likeness rules in general. Finally, using docking simulations, it was found that compounds 7h, 7i, 8h, and 8i showed high affinity to PDB ID:5TZ1, which is an CYP51 antifungal target structure.
Tuberculosis infection and disease in South African adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV on antiretroviral therapy: a cohort study
Authors: Frigati Lisa J , Wilkinson Katalin A , le Roux Stanzi , Brown Karryn , Ruzive Sheena , Githinji Leah , Petersen Wonita , Belard Sabine , Cotton Mark F , Myer Landon , Zar Heather J
Published: March 2021

Introduction

There are limited data on Tuberculosis (TB) in adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV (APHIV). We examined the incidence and determinants of TB infection and disease in the Cape Town Adolescent Antiretroviral Cohort (CTAAC).

Methods

Youth between nine and fourteen years on antiretroviral therapy (ART) for more than six months in public sector care, and age‐matched HIV‐negative adolescents, were enrolled between July 2013 through March 2015 and followed six‐monthly. Data were censored on 31 October 2018. Symptom screening, chest radiograph, viral load, CD4 count, QuantiFERON (QFT) and sputum for Xpert MTB/RIF, microscopy, culture and sensitivity were performed annually. TB infection was defined by a QFT of >0.35 IU/mL. TB diagnosis was defined as confirmed (culture or Xpert MTB/RIF positive) or unconfirmed (clinical diagnosis and started on TB treatment). Analyses examined the incidence and determinants of TB infection and disease.

Results

Overall 496 HIV+ and 103 HIV‐negative participants (median age at enrolment 12 years (interquartile range, IQR 10.6 to 13.3) were followed for a median of 3.1 years (IQR 3.0 to 3.4); 50% (298/599) were male. APHIV initiated ART at median age 4.4 years (IQR 2.1 to 7.6). At enrolment, 376/496 (76%) had HIV viral load <40 copies/mL, median CD4 count was 713 cells/mm3 and 179/559 (32%) were QFT+, with no difference by HIV status (APHIV 154/468, 33%; HIV negative 25/91, 27%; p = 0.31). The cumulative QFT+ prevalence was similar (APHIV 225/492, 46%; 95%CI 41% to 50%; HIV negative 44/98, 45%; 95% CI 35% to 55%; p = 0.88). APHIV had a higher incidence of all TB disease than HIV‐negative adolescents (2.2/100PY, 95% CI 1.6 to 3.1 vs. 0.3/100PY, 95% CI 0.04 to 2.2; IRR 7.36, 95% CI 1.01 to 53.55). The rate of bacteriologically confirmed TB in APHIV was 1.3/100 PY compared to 0.3/100PY for HIV‐negative adolescents, suggesting a fourfold increased risk of developing TB disease in APHIV despite access to ART. In addition, a positive QFT at enrolment was not predictive of TB in this population.

Conclusions

High incidence rates of TB disease occur in APHIV despite similar QFT conversion rates to HIV‐negative adolescents. Strategies to prevent TB in this vulnerable group must be strengthened.
A Deep Learning Approach to Diagnostic Classification of Prostate Cancer Using Pathology–Radiology Fusion
Authors: Khosravi Pegah , Lysandrou Maria , Eljalby Mahmoud , Li Qianzi , Kazemi Ehsan , Zisimopoulos Pantelis , Sigaras Alexandros , Brendel Matthew , Barnes Josue , Ricketts Camir , Meleshko Dmitry , Yat Andy , McClure Timothy D. , Robinson Brian D. , Sboner Andrea , Elemento Olivier , Chughtai Bilal , Hajirasouliha Iman
Published: March 2021

Background

A definitive diagnosis of prostate cancer requires a biopsy to obtain tissue for pathologic analysis, but this is an invasive procedure and is associated with complications.

Purpose

To develop an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based model (named AI‐biopsy) for the early diagnosis of prostate cancer using magnetic resonance (MR) images labeled with histopathology information.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data sets from 400 patients with suspected prostate cancer and with histological data (228 acquired in‐house and 172 from external publicly available databases).

Field Strength/Sequence

1.5 to 3.0 Tesla, T2‐weighted image pulse sequences.

Assessment

MR images reviewed and selected by two radiologists (with 6 and 17 years of experience). The patient images were labeled with prostate biopsy including Gleason Score (6 to 10) or Grade Group (1 to 5) and reviewed by one pathologist (with 15 years of experience). Deep learning models were developed to distinguish 1) benign from cancerous tumor and 2) high‐risk tumor from low‐risk tumor.

Statistical Tests

To evaluate our models, we calculated negative predictive value, positive predictive value, specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy. We also calculated areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves (AUCs) and Cohen's kappa.

Results

Our computational method (https://github.com/ih-lab/AI-biopsy) achieved AUCs of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.86–0.92]) and 0.78 (95% CI: [0.74–0.82]) to classify cancer vs. benign and high‐ vs. low‐risk of prostate disease, respectively.

Data Conclusion

AI‐biopsy provided a data‐driven and reproducible way to assess cancer risk from MR images and a personalized strategy to potentially reduce the number of unnecessary biopsies. AI‐biopsy highlighted the regions of MR images that contained the predictive features the algorithm used for diagnosis using the class activation map method. It is a fully automatic method with a drag‐and‐drop web interface (https://ai-biopsy.eipm-research.org) that allows radiologists to review AI‐assessed MR images in real time.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
A novel approach for the detection and identification of sulfur mustard using liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry based on its selective oxidation to sulfur mustard monoxide with N‐iodosuccinimide
Authors: Prihed Hagit , Shifrovich Avital , Shamai Yamin Tamar , Madmon Moran , Smolkin Boris , Chen Ravit , Blanca Merav , Weissberg Avi
Published: March 2021

A new derivatization strategy for the detection and identification of sulfur mustard (HD) via liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) is developed. The method incorporates selective oxidation of the sulfide group by the electrophilic iodine reagent N‐iodosuccinimide (NIS) to produce sulfur mustard monoxide (HDSO). The derivatization reaction efficiencies were evaluated with acetonitrile extracts of soil, asphalt, cloth, Formica, and linoleum spiked with HD at concentrations of 50–5000 pg/ml and found to be similar to that with pure acetonitrile. The current derivatization approach is the first to preserve the identity of chloride groups and support HD regulation and evidentiary findings.
Intraseasonal teleconnections leading to heat waves in central Chile
Authors: Jacques‐Coper Martín , Veloso‐Aguila Daniel , Segura Christian , Valencia Amanda
Published: March 2021

The ability to anticipate meteorological extreme events beyond the synoptic range of ~1 week offers direct applications, for example, to limit their ecological and socioeconomical impacts. This study focuses on precursors of summer (December–February, DJF) warm events, particularly heat waves, in central Chile (CCh), which are typically induced by low‐level anticyclonic anomalies located to the south of this region. Considering that such atmospheric configuration can be part of a large‐scale wave‐train circulation pattern located upstream of CCh, we investigate signals that might provide guidance concerning the genesis of warm events in CCh. For a historical period (DJF 1872–2010) based on the 20th century reanalysis version 2 (20CR), our results present teleconnections that indicate higher probabilities of occurrence of such warm events with respect to expected climatological values. These signals can be monitored at least ~2 weeks in advance. Specifically, we explore the relationship between warm events in CCh and (a) the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) as a tropical source of variability, and (b) an extra‐tropical index (ETI), representative of the internal dynamics of the Southern Hemipshere mid‐latitudes, presented as an original contribution from this study following a novel approach. Both signals, and apparently their constructive superposition, seem to contribute to the organization of the large‐scale circulation anomalies leading ultimately to heat waves in CCh. We confirm these results for recent decades (DJF 1981–2020) using temperature observations and further data sets, namely the NCEP‐NCAR Reanalysis (NNR) and the Climate Forecast System Reanalysis versions 1 and 2 (CFSR and CFSv2, respectively). Finally, we describe three recent heat wave events in CCh (DJF 2019–2020) to illustrate the suitability of this conceptualization.
Machine learning for identifying relevant publications in updates of systematic reviews of diagnostic test studies
Authors: Lange Toni , Schwarzer Guido , Datzmann Thomas , Binder Harald
Published: March 2021

Updating systematic reviews is often a time‐consuming process that involves a lot of human effort and is therefore not conducted as often as it should be. The aim of our research project was to explore the potential of machine learning methods to reduce human workload. Furthermore, we evaluated the performance of deep learning methods in comparison to more established machine learning methods. We used three available reviews of diagnostic test studies as the data set. In order to identify relevant publications, we used typical text pre‐processing methods. The reference standard for the evaluation was the human‐consensus based on binary classification (inclusion, exclusion). For the evaluation of the models, various scenarios were generated using a grid of combinations of data preprocessing steps. Moreover, we evaluated each machine learning approach with an approach‐specific predefined grid of tuning parameters using the Brier score metric. The best performance was obtained with an ensemble method for two of the reviews, and by a deep learning approach for the other review. Yet, the final performance of approaches strongly depends on data preparation. Overall, machine learning methods provided reasonable classification. It seems possible to reduce human workload in updating systematic reviews by using machine learning methods. Yet, as the influence of data preprocessing on the final performance seems to be at least as important as choosing the specific machine learning approach, users should not blindly expect a good performance by solely using approaches from a popular class, such as deep learning.
Response of maize yield and nitrogen leaching to combining controlled‐release urea and normal urea under different surface mulching
Authors: Tang Liang , Li Shiqing , Shen Yufang
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND

A one‐off application of combining controlled‐release urea (CRU) and conventional urea has been recommended for the reduction of nitrogen (N) loss and improvement of grain yield. However, the effects of combining CRU and urea with different surface mulching has not been studied in detail, and the underlying agronomical and physiological mechanisms need to be more clearly understood.

RESULT

A 3‐year field study was conducted to determine the effects of combining CRU and urea with different surface mulching on dry matter, N accumulation and translocation, nitrate nitrogen (NO3−‐N) residuals and loss in maize grown under rain‐fed conditions. Three surface mulching [plastic film mulching (FM), straw mulching (SM) and no mulching (NM)] as well as three N fertilization [combining CRU and urea with 1:2 as the baseline application (NC), a split urea application with 4:3:3 (NU) and a N control (N0)] were used. The FM under NC fertilization increased N uptake, decreased NO3−‐N residual in the deep soil layer, and decreased N loss. The FM, SM and NM under NC fertilization increased 3‐year mean grain yields by 5.8%, 4.0% and 4.6%, respectively, compared to that under NU fertilization. The FM under NC fertilization showed the highest grain yield and economic return.

CONCLUSION

Properly managing N application by mixing CRU and urea in a one‐off application combined with plastic film mulching may have the potential to provide a better compromise among grain yield, N loss and economic returns for maize in rain‐fed farmland. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Treatment approach, hospital practice patterns, and receipt of multimodality therapy as measures of quality for locally advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Portuondo Jorge I. , Tran Cao Hop S. , da Costa Wilson L. , Sada Yvonne H. , Harris Alex H. S. , Massarweh Nader N.
Published: March 2021

Background

Adequate lymphadenectomy (AL) during surgical resection and delivery of multimodality therapy (MMT) are considered important for optimizing oncologic outcomes in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer. Both neoadjuvant and adjuvant approaches to MMT delivery are considered acceptable treatment strategies. Our goal was to evaluate the association between MMT treatment approach, hospital practice patterns, and survival and to explore whether AL and MMT might represent measures of quality for locally advanced gastric cancer.

Methods

A national cohort study of 5433 patients with locally advanced gastric cancer (≥cT2 and/or cN+) treated at 987 hospitals within the National Cancer Database (2006–2015). Patients were categorized as receiving a neoadjuvant therapy (NT) or adjuvant therapy (AT) approach. Patients were also categorized based on receipt of AL (≥15 nodes) and MMT (surgery with any preoperative, perioperative, or postoperative AT). Hospitals were stratified based on the predominant treatment approach and the proportion of patients that achieved performance benchmarks (AL ≥ 80%; MMT ≥ 75%). Multivariable Cox shared frailty modeling was used to evaluate the association with the overall risk of death.

Results

Overall, 54.5% of patients were treated with an AT and 45.6% with an NT approach. Relative to surgery alone, receipt of MMT by either approach was associated with decreased risk of death (NT—hazard ratio [HR]: 0.75, 95% confidence interval: [0.65–0.86]; AT—HR: 0.80 [0.71–0.90]). Relative to care at mixed pattern hospitals, care at predominantly AT hospitals was associated with an increased risk of death (HR: 1.28 [1.12–1.47]). Relative to patients whose care achieved no quality measures, AL (HR: 0.75, [0.67–0.82]) and MMT (HR: 0.68 [0.60–0.76]) were each associated with a reduced risk of death. Receipt of both measures was associated with an even greater reduction (HR: 0.47 [0.40–0.56]). Hospital performance on AL, MMT, or both measures was not associated with the risk of death.

Conclusion

Because over half of patients are treated with surgery first (many having surgery alone) and care at hospitals favoring a surgery first approach is associated with worse outcomes, quality improvement (QI) efforts should focus on increasing the use of NT strategies. Furthermore, delivery of AL and MMT together may represent an actionable, generalizable target for gastric cancer QI efforts because it improves survival and is unrelated to the context in which care is provided.
Determining the effectiveness of some soil stabilizers in wind erosion prevention using wind tunnel experiments
Authors: Erci Vildan , Seker Cevdet , Basaran Mustafa , Erpul Gunay
Published: March 2021

Laboratory wind tunnel simulations were carried out to determine the effectiveness of some soil stabilizers in reducing soil loss by wind erosion under turbulent flow conditions driven by the reference wind velocities of 9 and 11 m s−1. Particle fractions of 0.5–1 mm of two different soil types: silty clay loam (SiCL) and sandy loam (SL) were used in the experiments as erodible test surfaces after stabilizer treatments. Molasses (M), cement (Cm), a mixture of cement and molasses (Cm + M), and hydrogel (H) were applied at four different application doses, and later those materials were subjected to incubation at room temperature for 24 hr before the trays were placed in the tunnel for wind tests. During simulations under turbulent air‐flow conditions, soil losses [(qs), g m−2 min−1] were gauged for 10‐min duration immediately following the first lift‐off movement of the particles. Experimental results on qs were compared to those of two controls [untreated control (C) and water‐treated control (Cw)], which indicated that the H applications were highly effective at the doses ≥ 13.33 g m−2 for every soil type and wind velocity combination. In addition, at the application doses ≥ 13.33 g m−2, Cm and Cm + M treatments were as effective as H statistically in reducing qs at 9 m s−1 by successfully forming resistant crust layers against stronger turbulent swirls on the research test surfaces. From the point of being more easily accessible and more cost‐effective, using less expensive Cm and Cm + M treatments could be a good alternative to utilizing hydrogel in reducing wind erosion in wide field applications.
Patterns and determinants of woody encroachment in the eastern Eurasian steppe
Authors: Liu Xu , Feng Siwen , Liu Hongyan , Ji Jue
Published: March 2021

The Eurasian steppe is the largest grassland on Earth, with its eastern part covering northern China, Mongolia, and southern Siberia in Russia. Past and future climate warming has been highlighted by previous works; however, how vegetation cover, particularly woody versus herbaceous cover, has and will respond remains an open question. Through the fractional woody vegetation cover (FWVC) and fractional herbaceous vegetation cover (FHVC) estimated by the random forest method based on multisource remote sensing images, we report here that a slight woody encroachment has occurred at a rate of ~1% /decade, mostly concentrated in the forest‐steppe ecotone at its humid edge since 2000. The woody encroachment was mainly driven by climate warming, especially when it became warmer and wetter, mainly in areas with weakened active fires. At the same time, grass recovery has occurred at the center of this region under slight warming and drying, while human disturbance has shown a more significant influence than the effects of climate warming on this change. Under the assumption that human disturbance remains constant, the woody cover and herbs cover are projected to increase by 2040, while the change of FHVC shows more spatial heterogeneity.
Effects of NH4+, Na+, and Mg2+ ions on the corrosion behavior of galvanized steel in wet–dry cyclic conditions
Authors: Neupane Shova , Hastuty Sri , Yadav Neelima , Singh Nilima , Gupta Dipak K. , Yadav Brahamdeo , Singh Sanjay , Karki Nabin , Kumari Das Anju , Subedi Vivek , Nakarmi Krishna B. , Yadav Amar P.
Published: March 2021

The effect of cations on the corrosion of galvanized steel (GS) is scarcely reported. In this study, a wet–dry cyclic test was conducted to study NH4
+, Na+, and Mg2+ cation effect on the corrosion behavior of GS available in Nepal. Fourteen wet–dry cycles (18 h wet and 6 h dry) were performed by exposing samples at 298 K with a relative humidity of 90% in a wet cycle and 50% in a dry cycle for 14 days. The cations strongly affect the corrosion rate of the GS sample estimated by weight loss and potentiodynamic polarization. The potentiodynamic polarization curves showed the inhibition of cathodic and anodic reactions by Mg2+ ion, while the NH4
+ ion only changed the cathodic reaction. Mg2+ ion was found to shift the corrosion potential to noble values compared with NH4
+ and Na+ ions. A compact and thin corrosion products layer was developed in Mg2+ salt solution in contrast to a thick and porous corrosion products layer in NH4
+ and Na+ salt solutions. Red rust due to corrosion of underlying steel appeared in the presence of NH4
+ and Na+ salt solutions. Finally, the weight loss data revealed that the corrosivity of cations for GS decreased in the order Na+ > NH4
+ > Mg2+.
Awakening From the Pandemic
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: March 2021

It is an understatement to say that the past year or so has been unprecedented. In addition to the individual harm inflicted by the pandemic, many employers have failed to survive the loss of business. Some others are still fighting to find a way forward through ongoing COVID‐19 restrictions on operations as well as the continuing pressures faced by their employees. Fortunately, the situation is slowly improving and many businesses are seeing the start of the post‐pandemic world — what it may look like for employers and their employees.
Composition operators on holomorphic variable exponent spaces
Authors: Karapetyants Alexey , Restrepo Joel E.
Published: March 2021

We study composition operators in variable exponent Hölder space of holomorphic functions in the unit disc. We provide sufficient and, in some cases, necessary conditions for boundedness and for compactness of composition operators acting in these spaces.
Highly accelerated free‐breathing real‐time phase contrast cardiovascular MRI via complex‐difference deep learning
Authors: Haji‐Valizadeh Hassan , Guo Rui , Kucukseymen Selcuk , Paskavitz Amanda , Cai Xiaoying , Rodriguez Jennifer , Pierce Patrick , Goddu Beth , Kim Daniel , Manning Warren , Nezafat Reza
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a real‐time phase contrast (PC) MRI protocol via complex‐difference deep learning (DL) framework.

Methods

DL used two 3D U‐nets to separately filter aliasing artifact from radial real‐time velocity‐compensated and complex‐difference images. U‐nets were trained with synthetic real‐time PC generated from electrocardiograph (ECG) ‐gated, breath‐hold, segmented PC (ECG‐gated segmented PC) acquired at the ascending aorta of 510 patients. In 21 patients, free‐breathing, ungated real‐time (acceleration rate = 28.8) and ECG‐gated segmented (acceleration rate = 2) PC were prospectively acquired at the ascending aorta. Hemodynamic parameters (cardiac output [CO], stroke volume [SV], and mean velocity at peak systole [peak mean velocity]) were measured for ECG‐gated segmented and DL‐filtered synthetic real‐time PC and compared using Bland‐Altman and linear regression analyses. Additionally, hemodynamic parameters were quantified from DL‐filtered, compressed‐sensing (CS) ‐reconstructed, and gridding reconstructed prospective real‐time PC and compared to ECG‐gated segmented PC.

Results

Synthetic real‐time PC with DL showed strong correlation (R > 0.98) and good agreement with ECG‐gated segmented PC for quantified hemodynamic parameters (mean‐difference: CO = −0.3 L/min, SV = −4.3 mL, peak mean velocity = −2.3 cm/s). On average, DL required 0.39 s/frame to filter prospective real‐time PC, which was 4.6‐fold faster than CS. Compared to CS, DL showed superior correlation, tighter limits of agreement (LOAs), better bias for peak mean velocity, and worse bias for CO and SV. Compared to gridding, DL showed similar correlation, tighter LOAs for CO and SV, similar bias for CO, and worse bias for SV and peak mean velocity.

Conclusion

The complex‐difference DL framework accelerated real‐time PC‐MRI by nearly 28‐fold, enabling rapid free‐running real‐time assessment of flow hemodynamics.
Two decades of childhood cancer care in Cameroon: 2000–2020
Authors: Afungchwi Glenn Mbah , Kruger Mariana , Kouya Francine , Tih Pius , McCormick Peter , Pondy‐Ongotsoyi Angele‐Hermine , Hesseling Peter B.
Published: March 2021

Background

Before the year 2000, there was no dedicated childhood cancer service in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to investigate the progress made with pediatric oncology care in Cameroon from 2000 to 2020.

Method

A literature search was conducted for published articles on childhood cancer in Cameroon and relevant documents, and conference abstracts were reviewed. The articles were analyzed under the themes: awareness, diagnosis, epidemiology, treatment, outcome, advocacy, partnerships, traditional and complementary medicine, palliative care, and capacity building.

Results

Low awareness on childhood cancer was addressed with education activities targeting the general population and health care professionals. Cancer diagnosis was achieved with cytology, histology, and simple imaging. Management for common and curable cancers was implemented with use of modified treatment regimens for low‐ and middle‐income settings. Nutritional support was shown to mitigate the effects of malnutrition on treatment toxicity, and support was provided for transportation and accommodation. There was good collaboration between the pediatric oncology professionals nationally and twinning with international partners. Capacity building activities led to the availability of three pediatric oncologists and pediatric oncology‐trained nurses. Advocacy nationally led to the support of the Ministry of Health with pediatric oncology‐specific priority actions in the latest national cancer control plan.

Conclusion

Childhood cancer should receive the necessary attention of health care policymakers in Cameroon. With continued commitment of government, nongovernmental organizations, charities, childhood cancer specialists, patient and parent groups, there should be an improved future for children with cancer in Cameroon.
Impact of location of inpatient cancer care on patients with Ewing sarcoma and osteosarcoma—A population‐based study
Authors: Alvarez Elysia , Malogolowkin Marcio , Pollock Brad H. , Li Qian , Johnston Emily , Marina Neyssa , Wun Ted , Thorpe Steven , Keegan Theresa
Published: March 2021

Background

Ewing sarcoma (EWS) and osteosarcoma (OS) require multidisciplinary treatment. Care at specialized cancer centers (SCC: Children's Oncology Group affiliated and/or National Cancer Institute‐designated cancer center) has been found to improve outcomes in patients with leukemia, but studies have not considered location of care and outcomes in EWS and OS patients, an ideal group to evaluate given their specialized multidisciplinary treatment needs.

Methods

Patients hospitalized with primary EWS and OS (2000–2014) were identified using the California Cancer Registry linked with hospitalization data. Patients were divided into age groups (0–18, 19–39, ≥40 years), and classified on whether they received all versus part/none of their inpatient treatment at a SCC within 1 year of diagnosis. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression identified factors associated with survival.

Results

There were 531 ES and 959 OS patients. Five‐year overall survival was better for patients with EWS (all: 63% vs. part/none: 42%) and OS (all: 64% vs. part/none: 47%) who received all of their treatment at a SCC. After adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors, receiving all inpatient cancer treatment at a SCC was associated with superior overall survival (EWS HR: 0.49, CI 0.37–0.67; OS HR: 0.78, CI 0.63–0.97).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that treatment for EWS and OS at a SCC is associated with significantly improved survival even after adjustment for known prognostic factors. The superior survival among those treated at SCCs may be due to having greater access to clinical trials and services at SCCs.
An escalating treatment strategy for children with severe chronic immune thrombocytopenia: Preliminary report from a single center
Authors: Fu Lingling , Ma Jie , Gu Hao , Ma Jingyao , Wei Yunyun , Chen Zhengping , Wu Runhui
Published: March 2021

Objective

To analyze the effects of escalating treatment strategy in children with severe chronic immune thrombocytopenia (SCITP).

Methods

This was a single‐center, retrospective cohort study. Data from children with SCITP who received escalating treatment strategy in our center were collected between June 2017 and August 2019. The escalating strategy included three steps: Step I (six courses of high‐dose dexamethasone [HDD]), Step II (HDD combined with low‐dose rituximab), and Step III (eltrombopag).

Results

A total of 30 cases (18 males and 12 females) were included, with duration of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) of 20.5 (12.0–96.0) months. After treatment, the remission rate was 36.7% (11/30) and the sustained response (SR) rate was 68.2% (15/22). The distribution (remission rates) from Step I to III was as follows: nine of 30 (33.3%, 3/9); four of 30 (50%, 2/4); 17/30 (29.4%, 5/17), respectively. In eltrombopag (Step III) cases, 47.5% (8/17) maintained a platelet count of ≥50 × 109/L, 37.5% (3/8) had dose tapering, and 25% (2/8) have successfully discontinued the medication. The number of patients at 12, 24, and 36 months were 30, seven, and two, with a total response and remission rates of 80% (36.7%), 57.1% (28.6%), and 50% (50%), respectively. The total relapse rate was 26.7% (8/30), and three cases from Step II and five cases from Step III.

Conclusion

The escalating strategy for children SCITP showed an effective improvement rate with 36.7% remission and 68.2% SR, and 30% could benefit and retain SR from HDD treatment. Combined treatment with eltrombopag can reduce the relapse rate of low‐dose rituximab.
Influence of volatile solvents and mixing ratios of binary solvent systems on morphology and performance of electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) nanofibers
Authors: Nuamcharoen Praewpanit , Kobayashi Takaomi , Potiyaraj Pranut
Published: March 2021

Electrospinning process was used to fabricate electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) nanofibers using binary solvent systems of N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) and 10 other volatile solvents, namely acetone, tetrahydrofuran, methyl acetate (MA), ethyl acetate (EA), propyl acetate, butyl acetate, ethanol, methanol, chloroform and hexane. The nanofibrous film was investigated and it was noted that the formation of resultant PVDF nanofibers was improved depending on an increase of the amount of the volatile solvent in the PVDF solution. The average diameters of the fibers in the electrospun films were 174–1150 nm. A large amount of volatile solvent was responsible for low dark spot and bead‐free morphological observation. The mechanical properties of the fibers were strongly influenced by the morphology, uniformity and crystalline structure of the PVDF fibers. The α phase of the PVDF was eliminated especially when the volatile solvent was in a ratio of 4:6. The surface area and the porosity of the PVDF nanofibers were also improved. Moreover, the penetration was also studied and reported as the relationship between the water contact angle and time. Among the volatile solvents that were studied, DMF with MA and EA at a ratio of 4:6 was the best solvent that provided fine electrospun PVDF nanofibers and the maximum tensile strength of 15.7 ± 1.3 MPa for EA and elongation of 175.3 ± 4.4% for MA, high water contact angle, speedy penetration rate and a high fraction of β crystalline phase. This research presented evidence of interesting binary solvent systems with a variety of volatile solvents. © 2021 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Urban park visitor preferences for vegetation – An on‐site qualitative research study
Authors: Talal Michelle L. , Santelmann Mary V. , Tilt Jenna H.
Published: March 2021

Societal Impact Statement

With more than half of the human population living in cities, urban parks are some of the most significant places for human–nature interactions and their vegetation can provide a range of ecosystem services; however, the vegetation may not always meet the preferences of visitors. By conducting qualitative semi‐structured interviews with visitors at a range of urban park types interspersed throughout a city, we explored vegetation preferences that may be used to improve park planning, design, and maintenance, as well as educate and engage visitors.

Urban parks provide numerous cultural and ecological benefits, but may not always meet diverse visitor preferences. There is a need for additional on‐site research, which has the potential to gauge vegetation preferences in a more authentic and multi‐sensory context. We asked: how does vegetation in urban parks currently meet visitor preferences?

We performed on‐site semi‐structured interviews with visitors at 15 different parks of three general types (i.e., natural‐passive use, recreational‐active use, and multi‐use parks), using a case study of Portland, Oregon, a mid‐sized city in North America with a temperate climate. We transcribed the interviews and coded them for themes and patterns of meaning.

Visitors across demographics groups discussed trees, size, and diversity/variety as some of their favorite aspects of the vegetation. Trees were important for visitors, particularly for their large size/shade, but vegetation preferences tended to vary across park type and slightly more than half of participants suggested changes. Many recreational‐active and multi‐use park visitors desired more flowers, color, grass, middle growth, trees, and food‐bearing plants, as well as improved placement, while visitors to natural‐passive use parks preferred additional invasive/harmful plant removal.

Integrating visitor vegetation preferences into plant selection, layout, and maintenance has the potential to increase ecosystem services of urban parks. The incorporation of colorful, native flowers for visitors can also provide habitat for native species. Visitors across park types also desired to learn more about plants, and so additional interpretive signs/labels and multi‐sensory gardens can help to engage and educate visitors.
Natural isoflavonoids in invasive cancer therapy: From bench to bedside
Authors: Cayetano‐Salazar Lorena , Olea‐Flores Monserrat , Zuñiga‐Eulogio Miriam D. , Weinstein‐Oppenheimer Caroline , Fernández‐Tilapa Gloria , Mendoza‐Catalán Miguel A. , Zacapala‐Gómez Ana E. , Ortiz‐Ortiz Julio , Ortuño‐Pineda Carlos , Navarro‐Tito Napoleón
Published: March 2021

Cancer is a public health problem worldwide, and one of the crucial steps within tumor progression is the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, which are directly related to cancer‐associated deaths in patients. Recognizing the molecular markers involved in invasion and metastasis is essential to find targeted therapies in cancer. Interestingly, about 50% of the discovered drugs used in chemotherapy have been obtained from natural sources such as plants, including isoflavonoids. Until now, most drugs are used in chemotherapy targeting proliferation and apoptosis‐related molecules. Here, we review recent studies about the effect of isoflavonoids on molecular targets and signaling pathways related to invasion and metastasis in cancer cell cultures, in vivo assays, and clinical trials. This review also reports that glycitein, daidzein, and genistein are the isoflavonoids most studied in preclinical and clinical trials and displayed the most anticancer activity targeting invasion‐related proteins such as MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 and also EMT‐associated proteins. Therefore, the diversity of isoflavonoids is promising molecules to be used as chemotherapeutic in invasive cancer. In the future, more clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of the various natural isoflavonoids in the treatment of invasive cancer.
Dynamic characteristic of spur gear system with spalling fault considering tooth pitch error
Authors: Yang Lantao , Chen Qiuyuan , Yin Lei , Wang Liming , Shao Yimin
Published: March 2021

There have been many researches focusing on the dynamic characteristics of gear faults, such as spalling, crack and broken, to improve the accuracy of fault diagnosis methods. However, the tooth pitch error caused by actual gear manufacture precision is usually neglected, which may have a direct influence on the gear vibration response. In order to settle the problem of the underlying vibration mechanism with the combined effect of pitch error and spalling fault, a dynamic modeling method of the spalling gear coupling with pitch error is proposed, in which the relationship between the gear precision level and the pitch error is considered. The changes in both meshing stiffness phase and displacement excitation on the contact line caused by pitch error are analyzed, where the additional effect of spalling fault on stiffness excitation is also taken into consideration. Base on the proposed dynamic model, the dynamic responses and vibration characteristics of spur gear with coupling excitation of pitch error and spalling fault are investigated. The simulation results show that vibration characteristics caused by the early spalling fault are easy to be affected by the pitch error, especially when the gear precision is poor.
Coping flexibility: Variability, fit and associations with efficacy, emotion regulation, decentering and responses to stress
Authors: Zimmer‐Gembeck Melanie J.
Published: March 2021

Coping flexibility is a promising approach to understanding risk and resilience, but it has been conceptualized in various ways. The aim of this study was to test convergence of coping‐related flexibility measures with other coping‐related competencies (coping self‐efficacy, emotion regulation, decentering) and ways of coping. Participants were 885 students (Mage = 21.5 years) who completed measures of flexibility (seven subscales), coping self‐efficacy, emotion dysregulation, decentering, and ways of coping with recent interpersonal stressors. Breadth of coping was also examined, given its past use as a measure of flexibility. The seven flexibility subscales converged with each other as expected, and all were associated with greater coping‐related competence, with moderate or large positive associations between the four measures of coping flexibility ability and other measures of coping‐related competence. Regarding associations with ways of coping, multivariate models showed that perceived ability in coping flexibility had positive associations with engagement and negative associations with disengagement coping, but multiple situational/adaptive coping flexibility subscales were associated positively with both engagement and disengagement ways of coping. In addition, some findings were weak or counterintuitive, especially when ways of coping and breadth were considered, suggesting a need for more attention to precisely conceptualizing and appropriately measuring coping flexibility.
Strategic Customization of Polymeric Nanocomposites Modified by 2D Titanium Oxide Nanosheet for High‐k and Flexible Gate Dielectrics
Authors: Jang Moonjeong , Park Se Yeon , Kim Seong Ku , Jung Dowon , Song Wooseok , Myung Sung , Lee Sun Sook , Yoon Dae Ho , An Ki‐Seok
Published: March 2021

Organic polymer‐based dielectrics with intrinsic mechanical flexibility and good processability are excellent candidates for the dielectric layer of flexible electronics. These polymer films can become even more rigid and electrically robust when modified through cross‐linking processes. Moreover, the composites formed by dispersing nanoscale inorganic fillers in a polymer matrix can exhibit further improved polarization property. However, these strategies can be challenging as homogeneous dispersion of nanomaterials in the matrix is difficult to achieve; thus, degradation of electrically insulating properties of nanocomposite layers is often observed. Here, a high‐k, pinhole‐free, and flexible poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)‐based nanocomposite dielectric is presented, incorporating 2D TiO2 nanosheets (NSs) for the first time. Despite the attractive dielectric constant, exceptional flexibility, and electrically insulating property of PVA‐TiO2 nanocomposites, only few studies on these materials have been reported. The organic/inorganic nanosheet hybrid layer, which reaches an unprecedentedly high dielectric constant of 43.8 (more than four times higher than that of cross‐linked PVA), also exhibits an outstanding leakage current density as low as 10−9 A cm−2. Furthermore, the repeated bending tests for nanocomposite capacitors reveal their capability of operating without any deterioration of their performances even after 1000 iterations of bending cycles at a bending radius of 3 mm.