bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a fast gas chromatography combustion isotope ratio mass spectrometry method for the detection of epiandrosterone sulfate in urine
Authors: De Wilde Laurie , Van Renterghem Pieter , Van Eenoo Peter , Polet Michaël
Published: April 2020

In doping control, to confirm the exogenous origin of exogenously administered anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), a gas chromatography combustion isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC‐C‐IRMS) analysis is performed. Recently published work suggests that epiandrosterone sulfate (EpiAS) is a promising IRMS target compound for the detection of AAS, capable of prolonging the detection window. However, EpiAS is only excreted in urine in its sulfoconjugated form, while all other IRMS target compounds are excreted glucuronidated, meaning that EpiAS cannot be incorporated in the existing IRMS methods. A separate extensive sample preparation needs to be performed on this compound with a different hydrolysis and extraction procedure and a different liquid chromatography (LC) clean‐up.

The current work presents a new, fast, and easy to implement EpiAS IRMS method. The approach was based on the direct GC analysis of non‐hydrolyzed EpiAS, making the solid phase extraction, hydrolysis, and acetylation step redundant. Sample preparation consisted of a simple liquid–liquid extraction, followed by LC fraction collection. A population study was performed to check compliance with the criteria drafted by the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA). To verify the applicability of the developed approach, the method was applied to the samples of four administration studies (i.e. dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone gel (T gel), androstenedione (ADION), and intramuscular testosterone undecanoate. In contrast to previously published data, the strength of EpiAS as the target compound and the prolongation of the detection window in comparison with the conventional IRMS target compounds was less pronounced.
Isotopic niche differs between seal and fish‐eating killer whales (Orcinus orca) in northern Norway
Authors: Jourdain Eve , Andvik Clare , Karoliussen Richard , Ruus Anders , Vongraven Dag , Borgå Katrine
Published: April 2020

Ecological diversity has been reported for killer whales (Orcinus orca) throughout the North Atlantic but patterns of prey specialization have remained poorly understood. We quantify interindividual dietary variations in killer whales (n = 38) sampled throughout the year in 2017–2018 in northern Norway using stable isotopic nitrogen (δ15N: 15N/14N) and carbon (δ13C: 13C/12C) ratios. A Gaussian mixture model assigned sampled individuals to three differentiated clusters, characterized by disparate nonoverlapping isotopic niches, that were consistent with predatory field observations: seal‐eaters, herring‐eaters, and lumpfish‐eaters. Seal‐eaters showed higher δ15N values (mean ± SD: 12.6 ± 0.3‰, range = 12.3–13.2‰, n = 10) compared to herring‐eaters (mean ± SD: 11.7 ± 0.2‰, range = 11.4–11.9‰, n = 19) and lumpfish‐eaters (mean ± SD: 11.6 ± 0.2‰, range = 11.3–11.9, n = 9). Elevated δ15N values for seal‐eaters, regardless of sampling season, confirmed feeding at high trophic levels throughout the year. However, a wide isotopic niche and low measured δ15N values in the seal‐eaters, compared to that of whales that would eat solely seals (δN‐measured = 12.6 vs. δN‐expected = 15.5), indicated a diverse diet that includes both fish and mammal prey. A narrow niche for killer whales sampled at herring and lumpfish seasonal grounds supported seasonal prey specialization reflective of local peaks in prey abundance for the two fish‐eating groups. Our results, thus, show differences in prey specialization within this killer whale population in Norway and that the episodic observations of killer whales feeding on prey other than fish are a consistent behavior, as reflected in different isotopic niches between seal and fish‐eating individuals.
Advancing ecohydrology in the 21st century: A convergence of opportunities
Authors: Guswa Andrew J. , Tetzlaff Doerthe , Selker John S. , Carlyle‐Moses Darryl E. , Boyer Elizabeth W. , Bruen Michael , Cayuela Carles , Creed Irena F. , van de Giesen Nick , Grasso Domenico , Hannah David M. , Hudson Janice E. , Hudson Sean A. , Iida Shin'ichi , Jackson Robert B. , Katul Gabriel G. , Kumagai Tomo'omi , Llorens Pilar , Lopes Ribeiro Flavio , Michalzik Beate , Nanko Kazuki , Oster Christopher , Pataki Diane E. , Peters Catherine A. , Rinaldo Andrea , Sanchez Carretero Daniel , Trifunovic Branimir , Zalewski Maciej , Haagsma Marja , Levia Delphis F.
Published: April 2020

Nature‐based solutions for water‐resource challenges require advances in the science of ecohydrology. Current understanding is limited by a shortage of observations and theories that can further our capability to synthesize complex processes across scales ranging from submillimetres to tens of kilometres. Recent developments in environmental sensing, data, and modelling have the potential to drive rapid improvements in ecohydrological understanding. After briefly reviewing advances in sensor technologies, this paper highlights how improved measurements and modelling can be applied to enhance understanding of the following ecohydrological examples: interception and canopy processes, root uptake and critical zone processes, and up‐scaled effects of land use on streamflow. Novel and improved sensors will enable new questions and experiments, while machine learning and empirical methods provide additional opportunities to advance science. The synergy resulting from the convergence of these parallel developments will provide new insight into ecohydrological processes and thereby help identify nature‐based solutions to address water‐resource challenges in the 21st century.
Age‐related longitudinal change in cardiac structure and function in adults at increased cardiovascular risk
Authors: Gong Fei Fei , Coller Jennifer M. , McGrady Michele , Boffa Umberto , Shiel Louise , Liew Danny , Stewart Simon , Owen Alice J. , Krum Henry , Reid Christopher M. , Prior David L. , Campbell Duncan J.
Published: April 2020

Aim

Heart failure (HF) incidence increases markedly with age. We examined age‐associated longitudinal change in cardiac structure and function, and their prediction by age and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors, in a community‐based cohort aged ≥60 years at increased CVD risk but without HF.

Methods and results

CVD risk factors were recorded in 3065 participants who underwent a baseline echocardiographic examination, of whom 2358 attended a follow‐up examination 3.8 [median, inter‐quartile range (IQR) 3.5, 4.2] years later. Median age was 71 (IQR 67, 76) years and 55% of participants were male. Age was associated with longitudinal increase in left ventricular (LV) mass index (LVMI); decrease in LV volumes; increase in LV ejection fraction; decrease in mitral annular systolic velocity; decrease in diastolic function (decreased mitral early diastolic annular velocity (e′); and increase in left atrial volume index, mitral peak early diastolic flow velocity (E)/e′ ratio, and tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRVmax) in men and women, except for TRVmax in men). In multivariable analysis, longitudinal increase in LVMI was explained by CVD risk factors alone, whereas age, together with CVD risk factors, independently predicted longitudinal change in all other echocardiographic parameters. CVD risk factors were differentially associated with longitudinal change in different echocardiographic parameters.

Conclusions

Whereas the increase in LVMI with age was explained by CVD risk factors alone, age, together with risk factors, independently predicted longitudinal change in all other echocardiographic parameters, providing evidence for age‐specific mechanisms of change in cardiac structure and function as people age. Age‐associated change in LVMI, LV volumes, and diastolic function resembled what might be expected for the evolution of HF with preserved ejection fraction. Given the differential association of different CVD risk factors with longitudinal change in different echocardiographic parameters, therapies aimed at attenuation of age‐associated change in cardiac structure and function, and HF evolution, will likely need to address multiple CVD risk factors.
The impact of residual mitral regurgitation after MitraClip therapy in functional mitral regurgitation
Authors: Reichart Daniel , Kalbacher Daniel , Rübsamen Nicole , Tigges Eike , Thomas Christina , Schirmer Johannes , Reichenspurner Hermann , Blankenberg Stefan , Conradi Lenard , Schäfer Ulrich , Lubos Edith
Published: April 2020

Aims

MitraClip therapy for the treatment of functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) is an increasingly used intervention for high‐risk surgical patients. The aim of this observational study was to assess the impact of residual mitral regurgitation (rMR) at discharge on long‐term outcome after MitraClip therapy in patients with
FMR.

Methods and results

Overall, 458 patients (mean age 73.8 ± 8.9 years) underwent MitraClip implantation between September 2008 and December 2017. The impact of rMR ≤ 1+ at discharge (n = 251) was retrospectively compared to patients graded as rMR 2+ (n = 173) and rMR ≥3+ (n = 34) at discharge. Median follow‐up time was 5.09 years (5.00–5.26) with maximum follow‐up of 10.02 years. The primary outcome was survival, and Kaplan–Meier analyses revealed significant differences among all rMR subgroups with highest survival rates for rMR ≤ 1+ patients. This was further confirmed by composite outcome analyses (P < 0.02). The inferior outcomes of rMR 2+ and rMR ≥ 3+ at discharge were confirmed by increased adjusted hazard ratios when rMR 2+ (1.54, P = 0.0039) and rMR ≥ 3+ (2.16, P = 0.011) were compared to rMR ≤ 1+. Moreover, patients with stable rMR ≤ 1+ grades within 12 months showed significantly higher survival rates compared to patients with rMR ≤ 1+ at discharge and rMR ≥ 2+ at 12‐month follow‐up or rMR ≥ 2+ at discharge and 12‐month follow‐up (P = 0.029).

Conclusions

Patients with optimal and durable rMR ≤ 1+ at discharge and 12‐month follow‐up showed better outcome compared to patients with rMR 2+ and rMR ≥ 3+. Treatment success and durability characterized by rMR ≤ 1+ at discharge and 12 months seem to be important factors for long‐term outcomes, which has to be further confirmed by prospective randomized trials.
Thermal and Photochemical Switching of Chiral Sugar Azoalkenes: A Mechanistic Interrogation
Authors: Sánchez‐León Ana María , Cintas Pedro , Light Mark E. , Palacios Juan Carlos
Published: April 2020

This manuscript describes a thorough study on the thermal and photochemical evolution of carbohydrate‐based azoalkenes, which have been proposed as putative intermediates en route to other heterocyclic derivatives and nucleoside analogues. These substances represent new protagonists in the azo chemical space, under intense study due to reversible photoswitching of this functional group suitable for designing artificial nanomachines and responsive materials. Although structurally simple azadienes derived from monosaccharides have long been known, the dynamics of such species in solution and solid phase remains poorly characterized. Herein, we show that such azoalkenes undergo 3E→3Z thermal isomerization, which is accelerated by the presence of Brönsted acids. On the other hand, they undergo 1E→1Z isomerization when irradiated by sunlight, while the reverse 1Z→1E isomerization occurs thermally in the dark or under acid catalysis. As a result, sugar monoazadienes not only exhibit inherent chirality, but also dual on‐off isomerization under external stimuli. Both experiments and DFT‐based computational analyses provide a consistent and unifying mechanistic picture of these transformations.
Thirdhand smoke exposure causes replication stress and impaired transcription in human lung cells
Authors: Sarker Altaf H. , Trego Kelly S. , Zhang Weiguo , Jacob Peyton , Snijders Antoine M. , Mao Jian‐Hua , Schick Suzaynn F. , Cooper Priscilla K. , Hang Bo
Published: April 2020

Thirdhand cigarette smoke (THS) is a newly described toxin that lingers in the indoor environment long after cigarettes have been extinguished. Emerging results from both cellular and animal model studies suggest that THS is a potential human health hazard. DNA damage derived from THS exposure could have genotoxic consequences that would lead to the development of diseases. However, THS exposure‐induced interference with fundamental DNA transactions such as replication and transcription, and the role of DNA repair in ameliorating such effects, remain unexplored. Here, we found that THS exposure increased the percentage of cells in S‐phase, suggesting impaired S‐phase progression. Key DNA damage response proteins including RPA, ATR, ATM, CHK1, and BRCA1 were activated in lung cells exposed to THS, consistent with replication stress. In addition, THS exposure caused increased 53BP1 foci, indicating DNA double‐strand break induction. Consistent with these results, we observed increased micronuclei formation, a marker of genomic instability, in THS‐exposed cells. Exposure to THS also caused a significant increase in phosphorylated RNA Polymerase II engaged in transcription elongation, suggesting an increase in transcription‐blocking lesions. In agreement with this conclusion, ongoing RNA synthesis was very significantly reduced by THS exposure. Loss of nucleotide excision repair exacerbated the reduction in RNA synthesis, suggesting that bulky DNA adducts formed by THS are blocks to transcription. The adverse impact on both replication and transcription supports genotoxic stress as a result of THS exposure, with important implications for both cancer and other diseases.
Improved analytical modeling and mechanical characterization of gas diffusion layers under compression load
Authors: Xiao Yang , Gao Zhenhai , Gao Fei , Zhang Tianyao , Zhang Wenhua , Li Ziqiao , Ma Xiaoyuan , Qi Jinxuan
Published: April 2020

Gas diffusion layers (GDLs) are the most rigid layers in a 5‐layer or 7‐layer membrane electrode assembly (MEA) of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell. Therefore, in the fuel cell analysis, the mechanical properties of GDLs have a great impact on the stress distribution of the membrane as well as the performance of the whole cell. However, the mechanical properties of GDLs are not sufficiently studied. Nonlinear behavior of GDLs under cyclic compression is discussed rarely in literature. The existing model takes both constraints into consideration, but due to a geometrical oversimplification of the carbon paper microstructure, it shows some deviation, which cannot be overcome by selecting appropriate parameters. In this paper, the geometry of carbon paper microstructure has been reanalyzed. Based on the improved geometry formula, a modified model of carbon paper GDL is presented and verified by experimental data. Furthermore, both the experimental mechanical characteristics are achieved as support data for the improved model.
Determination of δ13C of vanillin in complex food matrices by HS‐SPME‐GC‐C‐IRMS
Authors: Wilde Amelie S. , Hansen Anne‐Mette S. , Fromberg Arvid , Lauritz Frandsen Henrik , Smedsgaard Jørn
Published: April 2020

Vanilla is one of the most popular spices in the world and is therefore often added to food products to enhance the taste with its desirable flavour. Vanilla flavour is highly susceptible to economically motivated food fraud since the main component ‘vanillin’ can easily be produced by much cheaper synthetic processes. The determination of the vanillin source is not always an easy task, especially when very low concentrations are incorporated in complex food matrices. Here, we present an easy sample preparation procedure that includes a solid‐phase extraction clean‐up to determine the isotopic carbon ratio of vanillin in food products by headspace solid‐phase microextraction and gas chromatography coupled to isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Isotopic fractionation during the sample preparation procedure was carefully evaluated. The method was applied to 23 commercial food samples including vanilla sugar, dairy and soy products. The study illustrates the potential and limitations of the authentication of vanilla flavour by the isotopic carbon ratio of vanillin. Further, the complexity of the authenticity assessment of vanilla flavours in composite food is demonstrated.
Petrogenesis of highly differentiated I‐type volcanic rocks: Reinjection of high‐temperature magma—An example from Suolun silicic volcanic rocks, central Great Xing'an Range, China
Authors: Feng Zhao , Sun De‐You , Yue Yue , Mao An‐Qi , Tian Li , Sun Chao , Gou Jun
Published: April 2020

Silicic volcanic rocks are the main components of the upper crust. Understanding their genesis can help us better understand the processes of crustal growth, reconstruction, and crust–mantle interactions. In this study, we examine silicic volcanic rocks from Suolun in the Great Xing'an Range, China. These silicic volcanic rocks are of Cretaceous age (140–123 Ma), with 68–76 wt% SiO2, and the majority are of the high‐K (calc‐alkaline) series. εHf(t) ranges between +1.7 and +9.9, mostly around 7. The Early Cretaceous silicic volcanic rocks from Suolun are cold‐wet‐oxidised, highly differentiated I‐type volcanic rocks, and plagioclase and K‐feldspar are the main fractionation phases. TTiZ shows that silicic magma undergoes a reheating process in the magma chamber, which causes the early rheological lock‐up magma to reactivate and thus drives it to further differentiation. This process is probably driven by the injection of high temperature magma at depth. The wet upwelling of the Mongol‐Okhotsk Oceanic plate in the deep resulted in large‐scale magmatism in the area. These results provide a possible explanation for the formation of highly differentiated magmatic rocks and further confirm the evolutionary link between volcanic rocks and plutonic systems.
Numerical simulation of hydrothermal behavior in a concentric curved annular tube
Authors: Kareem Mais K. , Abed Waleed M. , Dawood H. K.
Published: April 2020

This study performs a numerical investigation of the steady‐state fully developed laminar flow and forced convection heat transfer characteristics in a concentric curved annular tube with two different curvature angles, a 90°‐bend annular tube and a U‐bend annular tube. A wide range of aspect ratios (r* = 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75) and three curvature ratios (δc = 0.1, 0.2, and 0.5) were adopted in this study. The governing equations consisting of continuity, momentum, and energy equations are solved by considering the outer wall to be insulated (adiabatic), and a constant temperature is applied at the inner wall by using the finite‐volume method (FVM) to investigate the hydrothermal performance for these two different bend angles.Features of axial velocity contours, temperature patterns, and secondary flow streamlines at different cross‐sectional locations along the angular coordinate of curved annulus are observed with a Dean number range of (De = 32‐632). Additionally, the circumferential friction factor and averaged Nusselt number are obtained along the concentric curved annulus flow direction. The numerical results indicate that the normalized average Nusselt number and Performance Evaluation Criteria (PEC) increase with increasing De and curvature ratio for both curvature angles of concentric curved annular tube. Moreover, the normalized average Nusselt number, normalized friction factor‐Reynolds number product, and PEC increase with decreasing the aspect ratio because the annular gap between the surfaces of the inner and outer tubes (the boundaries of annulus) increases with decreasing aspect ratio. The hydrothermal performance of the concentric curved annular tube is higher than that of the straight annular tube attributed to the formation of secondary flows (Dean's vortices) in a cross‐sectional direction and the impact of the inner tube wall boundary. The value of PEC for both curvature angles of the curved annular tube at aspect ratio = 0.1 and De = 632 is approximately two‐fold of the straight annular tube under the same conditions while at aspect ratio = 0.75, it increases by nearly 80%.
Nonlinear convective boundary layer flow of micropolar‐couple stress nanofluids past permeable stretching sheet using Cattaneo‐Christov heat and mass flux model
Authors: Ibrahim Wubshet , Gadisa Gosa
Published: April 2020

The present work aims to examine the effects of viscous dissipation and unsteadiness parameters on nonlinear convective laminar boundary layer flow of micropolar‐couple stress nanofluid past a permeable stretching sheet with non‐Fourier heat flux model in the presence of suction/injection variable. The unsteadiness in the flow, temperature, and concentration profile is caused by the time‐dependence of the stretching velocity, surface temperature, and surface concentration of the boundary layer flow. Similarity transformation is applied to transform the time‐dependent boundary layer flow equations into the corresponding highly nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations with appropriate boundary conditions. The robust numerical technique called Galerkin finite element method is used to solve the obtained dimensionless governing equations of the flow. The effects of Eckert number, unsteadiness parameter, suction/injection parameter, mixed convection parameter, material parameter, Schmidt number, and couple stress parameter on linear velocity, angular velocity, temperature, concentration, local skin friction coefficient, local wall couple stress, local Nusselt number, and local Sherwood number is analyzed with the help of graphical and tabular form. Under special conditions, the present result is compared with the existing literature and revealed good agreement. Our result shows that as unsteadiness parameter boost, both heat and mass transfer rate rises. The present study has a significant application in material processing technology.
Quantitative analysis of enclosed ground flare based on PHAST analysis
Authors: Wu Tan , Kong Qingduan , Wei Xinli , Gao Xiaolei , Xiong Xinyi
Published: April 2020

Despite the rapid development of the petrochemical industry, it is overly characterized by complication and integration. The requirements of safety technologies and facilities in the process are increasingly high. As one of the important safety facilities, the flare is indispensable in the petrochemical industry. In recent years, the ground flare has been further applied because of its advantages in low radiation and low pollution. However, as it has been introduced and used in China for a short time, the theoretical basis for its safety application is not strong. In view of this point, after the abnormal leakage, relevant data of the enclosed ground flare are obtained, so as to identify the diffusion and thermal radiation hazards. Meanwhile, quantitative analysis is conducted. The process hazard analysis software is used in the analysis and exploration by taking the enclosed ground flare used in chemical plants as an example. By establishing different accident models, the scopes of influence of fire explosion after the abnormal leakage of the enclosed ground flare are obtained. Data for quantitative analysis are also acquired. It will be an important reference for safely designing and applying the enclosed ground flare and formulating an emergency plan for safety production.
Performance evaluation of Elecsys HIV Duo on cobas e 801 using clinical samples in China
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Ma Qiang , Zhao Bin , Wang Lin , Pu Cunying , Han Xiaoxu
Published: April 2020

The prevalence and incidence of human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV) infection are rapidly increasing, and novel HIV genotypes are emerging. This study evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of Elecsys HIV Duo assay in population with the epidemic of multiple genotypes of HIV‐1 infection. Specificity of the Elecsys HIV Duo assay was determined using 3039 serum samples from patients receiving routine HIV‐1 screening tests in China. Sensitivity was assessed with seroconversion panels. Additional 67 positive from newly diagnosed HIV‐1 infected samples were also included to test assay performance on various HIV‐1 genotypes. The assay performance was compared with that of the Elecsys HIV Combi PT assay. The genotypes of all HIV‐1 positive samples were determined with phylogenetic analyses on the 1.1 kb Pro‐RT region of pol gene for drug resistance tests. The Elecsys HIV Duo assay had a slightly higher specificity (99.93% vs 99.84%) and equivalent sensitivity to Elecsys HIV Combi PT assay. Seventy‐two HIV‐1 positive samples, including 12 antigens positive samples, were distinguished by Elecsys HIV Duo. Among them, 43 samples were circulating recombinant form (CRF)01_AE, followed by 13 of CRF07_BC, 10 of subtype B, 4 of URF_0107, 1 of URF_01B and 1 of CRF02_AG. The Elecsys HIV Duo assay showed good performance for the Chinese population with an epidemic of multiple HIV genotypes.
Spatiotemporal variability and trends in global solar radiation over Poland based on satellite‐derived data (1986–2015)
Authors: Kulesza Kinga
Published: April 2020

Incoming solar radiation is the most important factor shaping climate system on Earth and the main element of the surface heat balance. The main aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the amount of global solar radiation reaching the Earth's surface in Poland during the 30‐year period 1986–2015. Trends in changes and fluctuations in the size of global solar radiation over Poland were determined. The solar radiation was described based on satellite products originating from the Surface Incoming Shortwave Radiation product from the Surface Solar Radiation Data Set – Heliosat, Edition 2 (SARAH‐2). The average annual sum of global solar radiation over Poland amounted to 3,902 MJ·m−2. The average annual radiation sums were the smallest in northern Poland and mountain basins, while they were the largest in southern Poland. The average annual radiation sum over Poland increased by 7.16 MJ·m−2·year−1 on average. The areas with the largest increase in the amount of solar radiation had the smallest average radiation sums during the multi‐year period (Pomerania, Northern Poland), and those where the increase in radiation was moderate had the highest average radiation sums (Central and Southern Poland). This shows that the spatial differentiation of the amount of solar radiation over Poland was gradually decreasing during this period. A several‐year cycle (of 12–13 years) of annual fluctuations in global solar radiation sums was observed using wavelet analysis. The cycle was visible between the early 1990s and 2005. It resulted from the medium‐term cyclical component (an 11.3‐year cycle which was the strongest until 2010) that occurred in summer. In the long term, the occurrence of cycles in the time series of solar radiation may result from cyclical or quasi‐cyclical changes in aerosol concentration, but this requires a separate study and further in‐depth research based on much longer data series.
Mapping tourist hot spots in African cities based on Instagram images
Authors: Paül i Agustí Daniel
Published: April 2020

Knowing in which areas tourists concentrate is fundamental for managing its effects. However, to date, research in this subject has mainly been carried out only in European and North American cities. The current article, in contrast, focuses on six African cities. We have analysed the spatial concentration of the images captured by Instagram users to identify the most visited locations. The results obtained show how there is a strong spatial concentration of images in African cities, little territorial continuity between the spaces visited, and a predominance of private attractions. These are important differences with respect to what has been described in the literature in other contexts.
Primary Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Temporal Bone: A Single‐Center Clinical Study
Authors: Komune Noritaka , Noda Teppei , Kogo Ryunosuke , Miyazaki Masaru , Tsuchihashi Nana A. , Hongo Takahiro , Koike Kensuke , Sato Kuniaki , Uchi Rhutaro , Wakasaki Takahiro , Matsumoto Nozomu , Yasumatsu Ryuji , Nakagawa Takashi
Published: April 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

The extreme rarity of temporal bone squamous cell carcinoma (TB‐SCC) has delayed the accumulation of high‐quality clinical evidence. For the purposes of retrospective meta‐analysis in the future, a large dataset with information from various institutions would be ideal. Our objective here was to retrospectively review cases of TB‐SCC encountered at a single tertiary referral center and explore survival outcomes and prognostic factors.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

The medical records of all TB‐SCC cases were retrospectively reviewed. The resulting dataset contained 71 cases of primary cancer eligible for initial definitive (curative) treatment.

Results

T4 status was associated with lower disease‐specific 5‐year survival than T1 to T3 staging (T1: 100%, T2: 92%, T3: 86%, T4: 51%). Survival was significantly higher in operable than in inoperable cases, even when restricted to advanced (T3/T4) cancers. The tumor extension to the middle ear cavity was observed in 13/17 of T3 cases, but it was not associated with poor survival. In addition, among operable cases, negative surgical margins were associated with significantly higher survival than positive margins.

Conclusions

Definitive treatments can offer disease‐specific 5‐year survival of over 85% in T1 to T3 cases of TB‐SCC. The tumor extension to the middle ear cavity is not associated with poor survival. T4 status, inoperability, nodal invasion, and positive surgical margin are identified as a predictor of poor prognosis. Still, the matter of how to deal with unresectable tumors remains an outstanding issue in the treatment of TB‐SCC.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E583–E589, 2021
Metal‐Free and Stretchable Conductive Hydrogels for High Transparent Conductive Film and Flexible Strain Sensor with High Sensitivity
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , He Miaomiao , Zhang Xuhua , Lu Tiao , Hao Weizhen , Zhao Yansheng , Liu Yongmei
Published: April 2020

Conductive hydrogels show promising applications in wearable electronic devices. However, it is still challenging to increase the conductivity as well as the mechanical performance of the conductive hydrogels. In addition, it is more challenging to fabricate ultrathin conductive films with good mechanical strength and high transparency. In this study, a metal‐free flexible conductive hydrogel for flexible wearable strain sensor with high sensitivity is presented. The conductive hydrogel is prepared by polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) templated polymerizing of polypyrrole (PPy) followed by gelating based on the polymerizing and cross‐linking of polyacrylamide (PAAm). The conductive hydrogel is endowed excellent mechanical properties by multiple hydrogen bonds between the interpenetrating network of PVA, PPy, and PAAm. The tensile strength reaches up to 0.2 MPa at 500% and the compression strength reaches up to 1.5 MPa at 90%. It can withstand cyclic loads. The conductivity reaches 0.3 s m−1 and it is sensitive to stretching and compressing. Therefore, strain sensors are prepared based on such hydrogels to make wearable electronic devices, monitoring the subtle and large strains. It is worth noting that the composite material containing PVA has good film‐forming properties. Therefore, ultrathin conductive hydrogel films with high transparency (94.2%), high conductivity (7090 Ω/square) and large‐area are fabricated at low cost.
Secondary bladder and rectal cancer risk estimates following standard fractionated and moderately hypofractionated VMAT for prostate carcinoma
Authors: Mazonakis Michalis , Kachris Stefanos , Damilakis John
Published: April 2020

Purpose

To estimate the risk for bladder and rectal cancer induction due to standard fractionated (SF) and moderately hypofractionated (HF) volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for prostate carcinoma.

Methods

Twelve patients with low or intermediate‐risk of prostate cancer referred for external‐beam radiotherapy were included in this study. Three computed tomography‐based VMAT plans were created for each study participant. The first plan was generated by assuming patient’s irradiation with SF‐VMAT (78 Gy in 39 fractions). The second and third plans were created on the basis of two different HF schedules (HF‐VMAT1: 70 Gy in 30 fractions, HF:VMAT2: 60 Gy in 20 fractions). Data from differential dose‐volume histograms obtained by the above treatment plans were employed to calculate the organ equivalent dose (OED) of the bladder and rectum with the aid of a nonlinear model accounting for fractionation and proliferation effects. The calculated OED values were used to estimate the average lifetime attributable risk (LARav) for the appearance of radiotherapy‐induced secondary bladder and rectal malignancies. The lifetime risk of radiation carcinogenesis was compared with the respective organ‐, and age‐dependent lifetime intrinsic risk (LIR) of cancer development for unexposed males.

Results

The average OED of the rectum from SF‐VMAT, HF‐VMAT1 and HF‐VMAT2 for prostate cancer was 972.0, 900.2, and 815.7 cGy, respectively. The corresponding values for bladder were 73.4, 72.3, and 71.0 cGy. The LARav for rectal cancer induction varied from 0.06% to 0.4% by the fractionation schedule used for irradiation and by the age of the patient at the time of treatment. The corresponding risk range related to the development of secondary bladder malignancies was 0.06–0.33%. The SF‐VMAT, HF‐VMAT1 and HF‐VMAT2 led to an increase of the lifetime rectal cancer risk with respect to LIR by 2.2–9.8%, 2.0–9.1% and 1.8–8.2%, respectively, depending upon the patient’s age. The corresponding elevation for bladder cancer induction was up to 8.0%, 7.9% and 7.7%.

Conclusions

The use of VMAT for prostate carcinoma leads to a noteworthy increase of the lifetime risk for bladder and rectal cancer induction compared to that of unexposed people irrespective of the patient’s age at the time of treatment and the applied fractionation scheme. The cancer risk data presented in this study may be taken into account by radiation oncologists and medical physicists in the selection of the optimal radiation therapy plan.
Tea culture and industry: Customer tea buying decision‐making power shaped by social capital in the presence of mutual trust
Authors: Khan Tariq H. , Yuzhen Duan , Ali Sumran , Ariyesti Fitri R.
Published: April 2020

This study contributes to the literature on tea culture and industry by examining the impact of social capital on customer perception which controls the decision to buy the tea products. Prior research suggests that individual cognition is the most essential element to target to achieve the required tea purchasing decision power. Individuals who socially connect and share views via social media are more likely to share a buy recommendation that psychologically inspires the buying decisions of customers. For present study data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 300 universities students usually use social media to get required information, knowledge and ask from other friends regarding product recommendation which is more trustworthy and easily accessible. The findings of the present study provide new insights into the development of the tea industry and encourage the use of tea products.
Characterization of indentation damage resistance and thermal diffusivity of needle‐punched Musa sapientum cellulosic fiber/unsaturated polyester composite laminates using IR thermography
Authors: Kenned Jack J , K Sankaranarayanasamy , V Kalyanavalli , C Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2020

This work focuses on the evolution of a novel technique, employed to fabricate a plant fiber‐reinforced composites without any hazardous chemical treatment for alternative carcinogenic synthetic fiber‐reinforced polymer composites. The fibers were extracted from the agro‐waste pseudostem of banana plant. Anatomical studies were carried out on fibers to ratify their reinforcement potentiality. The cellulosic fibers were needle‐punched and commingled with unsaturated polyester for fabricating nonwoven needle‐punched banana fiber composites (NPBFC). Quasistatic indentation tests were conducted for inducing damage on NPBFC, random banana fiber composites (RBFC), and random glass fiber composites (RGFC). Mechanical parameters, such as, peak force, linear stiffness, dent depth, and absorbed energy were used for evaluating indentation damage resistance. However, the optimal properties were achieved at 40 wt% fiber content. The load‐bearing capacity of NPBFC having 2420 N is supercilious than RBFC and comparable with RGFC. Moreover, the extent of damage area and thermal diffusivity for optimized NPBFC are 178 mm2 and 0.11 mm2/s, respectively, computed using infrared thermography technique. This result reveals that the optimized NPBFC has better indentation damage resistance and thermal insulating property than RBFC and RGFC. This study concludes that the synthesized NPBFC can be used for the application of industrial safety helmet and automotive parts.
Characterization of biodegradable poly(l‐lactide) tube over accelerated degradation
Authors: Naseem Raasti , Zhao Liguo , Eswaran Senthil K. , Willcock Helen
Published: April 2020

The next‐generation bioresorbable polymeric stents are undergoing continual research and development, especially how to control and optimize their degradation behaviors. The aim of this paper is to study the properties of a poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) tube over accelerated degradation in vitro. Spherical nanoindentation was particularly adopted to measure the mechanical properties of PLLA tube; while differential scanning calorimetry and gel permeation chromatography were used for crystallinity and molecular weight measurements. Overall, the material degradation was captured by the local stress‐strain response obtained with spherical nanoindentation, and further confirmed with chemical analyses. The results are particularly useful for development of bioresorbable polymeric stents with improved performance.
Instruction in secondary cotaught classrooms: Three elements, two teachers, one unique approach
Authors: Weiss Margaret P. , Rodgers Wendy J.
Published: April 2020

Coteaching is a widely used service delivery model for students with disabilities who access the general curriculum. Instruction in cotaught classrooms is meant to be qualitatively different from instruction in solo‐taught classrooms; however, this is not always the case. In this article, we describe a framework for thinking about and planning instruction in cotaught classrooms that includes evidence‐based practices from special education and specially designed instruction. Examples are included and discussed.
The influence of ABCG2 polymorphism on erlotinib efflux in the K562 cell line
Authors: Svedberg Anna , Jacobs Lianne , Vikingsson Svante , Gréen Henrik
Published: April 2020

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the gene for multidrug resistance protein ABCG2, an erlotinib transporter, is a possible contributor to the interindividual variation observed in erlotinib pharmacokinetics and toxicity. Therefore, the aim was to study erlotinib efflux by ABCG2 wild‐type (wt) and ABCG2 polymorphic variants in the K562 cell line. The chronic myeloid leukemia K562 cell line, neither expressing EGFR nor ABCG2, was transduced with vectors containing the ABCG2 wt, the SNPs: 34 G > A and 421 C > A, or with empty vector (K562/ve). ABCG2‐expressing cells were enriched using magnetic sorting and the expression was verified using flow cytometry. Intracellular erlotinib concentrations were analyzed by LC–MS/MS after incubation with 1 µmol/L erlotinib for 60 minutes. All recombinant cell lines were confirmed carriers of the vector and expressed ABCG2. Differences in intracellular erlotinib concentrations were observed between K562/ve and K562 ABCG2 wt and between K562/ve and K562 ABCG2 34G > A (both P ≤ .001, one‐way ANOVA with Tukey HSD post hoc test), indicating that the cell lines carrying ABCG2 wt and ABCG2 34G > A actively transports erlotinib out of the cells. The ABCG2 34G > A cell line had a higher transport capacity compared with ABCG2 wt after adjusting for ABCG2 expression (P = .024, t test). No differences were observed between K562/ve and K562 ABCG2 421 C > A. Genetic polymorphism in the ABCG2 gene has an influence on the transport of erlotinib which can contribute to the observed variation in erlotinib pharmacokinetics and toxicity.
Robust finite‐time H∞ synchronization for uncertain discrete‐time systems with nonhomogeneous Markovian jump: Observer‐based case
Authors: He Quangui , Xing Mali , Gao Xiaobin , Deng Feiqi
Published: April 2020

In this article, the problem of robust finite‐time H∞ synchronization control is investigated for a class of uncertain discrete‐time master‐slave systems with Markovian switching parameters in the observer‐based case. Parameter uncertainties are assumed to be norm‐bounded, and the polyhedral character is utilized to describe the transition probabilities of nonhomogeneous Markov chain. By using stochastic Lyapunov function method and finite‐time analysis techniques, novel sufficient conditions that include the master‐slave parameters are obtained for designing an observer‐based finite‐time H∞ synchronization control law in terms of linear matrix inequalities. The effectiveness of the proposed theoretical scheme is finally demonstrated by some simulations.
BTZ trailing strings
Authors: Bena Iosif , Tyukov Alexander
Published: April 2020

Abstract

We compute holographically the energy loss of a moving quark in various states of the D1-D5 CFT. In the dual bulk geometries, the quark is the end of a trailing string, and the profile of this string determines the drag force exerted by the medium on the quark. We find no drag force when the CFT state has no momentum, and a nontrivial force for any value of the velocity (even at rest) when the string extends in the supersymmetric D1-D5-P black-hole geometry, or a horizonless microstate geometry thereof. As the length of the throat of the microstate geometry increases, the drag force approaches the thermal BTZ expression, confirming the ability of these microstate geometries to capture typical black-hole physics. We also find that when the D1-D5-P black hole is non-extremal, there is a special value of the velocity at which a moving quark feels no force. We compute this velocity holographically and we compare it to the velocity computed in the CFT.
Intraoperative Strahlentherapie in der Abdominalchirurgie – eigene Erfahrungen
Authors: Joechle Katharina , Gkika Eleni , Grosu Anca-Ligia , Hopt Ulrich T. , Neeff Hannes P. , Fichtner-Feigl Stefan , Lang Sven A.
Published: April 2020

Hintergrund

Die intraoperative Radiotherapie (IORT) kann bei lokal weit fortgeschrittenen Tumoren und zu erwartender bzw. nicht vermeidbarer R1-Situation ergänzend zur chirurgischen Resektion eingesetzt werden. Ziel ist eine verbesserte lokale Tumorkontrolle und damit ein besseres Langzeitüberleben. Indikationen sind sowohl primäre intraabdominelle und retroperitoneale Tumoren als auch Rezidivtumoren. Im Rahmen der vorliegenden Arbeit werden die eigenen Erfahrungen mit der Durchführung einer IORT bei viszeralchirurgischen Resektionen zusammengefasst.

Methodik

Patienten, die von Januar 2008 bis Dezember 2018 eine IORT kombiniert mit abdomineller Tumorresektion in der Klinik für Allgemein- und Viszeralchirurgie des Universitätsklinikums Freiburgs erhalten hatten, wurden in diese Arbeit eingeschlossen und hinsichtlich Kurz- und Langzeitergebnisse evaluiert.

Ergebnisse

Die häufigste Indikation zur Durchführung einer IORT stellten Sarkome gefolgt von Rektum- und Analkarzinomen dar. Die mediane angewandte Strahlendosis der IORT betrug 15 Gy (8–19 Gy). Bei einem medianen „comprehensive complication index“ (CCI) von 11,9 traten bei 24 % der Patienten Komplikationen (Dindo-Clavien ≥ °III) auf. Die 90-Tage-Mortalität betrug 0 %. Besonders für Analkarzinomrezidive war die lokale Kontrolle nach einem Jahr trotz R0-Resektion unzureichend.

Schlussfolgerung

In unserem Patientenkollektiv war die IORT mit vertretbarer Morbidität einsetzbar. Dennoch sind Indikationsstellung und Patientenselektion kritische Punkte für die Durchführung der Behandlung. Der Effekt der IORT zur Verbesserung der lokalen Kontrolle und damit auch des Langzeitüberlebens sollte in weiteren Studien evaluiert werden.
Major depressive disorder and cardiometabolic diseases: a bidirectional Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Tang Bowen , Yuan Shuai , Xiong Ying , He Qiqiang , Larsson Susanna C.
Published: April 2020

Aims/hypothesis

Observational studies have shown a bidirectional association between major depressive disorder (MDD) and cardiometabolic diseases. We conducted a two-sample bidirectional Mendelian randomisation (MR) study to assess the causal associations of MDD with type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure and vice versa.

Methods

We extracted summary-level data for MDD, type 2 diabetes, CAD and heart failure from corresponding published large genome-wide association studies of individuals mainly of European-descent. In total, 96 SNPs for MDD, 202 SNPs for type 2 diabetes, 44 SNPs for CAD and 12 SNPs for heart failure were proposed as instrumental variables at the genome-wide significance level (p < 5 × 10−8). The random-effects inverse-variance weighted method was used for the main analyses.

Results

Genetic liability to MDD was significantly associated with type 2 diabetes and CAD at the Bonferroni-corrected significance level. The ORs of type 2 diabetes and CAD were respectively 1.26 (95% CI 1.10, 1.43;p = 6 × 10−4) and 1.16 (95% CI 1.05, 1.29;p = 0.0047) per one-unit increase in logeodds of MDD. There was a suggestive association between MDD and heart failure (OR 1.11 [95% CI 1.01, 1.21];p = 0.033). We found limited evidence supporting causal effects of cardiometabolic diseases on MDD risk in the reverse MR analyses.

Conclusions/interpretation

The present study strengthened the evidence that MDD is a potential risk factor for type 2 diabetes and CAD. Whether MDD is causally related to heart failure needs further study.

Data availability

All data included in this study were uploaded as supplements and are also publicly available through published GWASs and open GWAS datasets (UK Biobank, 23andMe and Psychiatric Genomics:https://datashare.is.ed.ac.uk/handle/10283/3203;DIAGRAM:http://diagram-consortium.org/downloads.html;CARDIoGRAMplusCD4:www.cardiogramplusc4d.org/;HERMES:http://www.kp4cd.org/datasets/mi).