bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reconstructing fluvial incision rates based on palaeo‐water tables in chalk karst networks along the Seine valley (Normandy, France)
Authors: Nehme Carole , Farrant Andrew , Ballesteros Daniel , Todisco Dominique , Rodet Joel , Sahy Diana , Grappone J. Michael , Staigre Jean‐Claude , Mouralis Damase
Published: March 2020

Quantifying rates of river incision and continental uplift over Quaternary timescales offer the potential for modelling landscape change due to tectonic and climatic forcing. In many areas, river terraces form datable archives that help constrain the timing and rate of valley incision. However, old river terraces, with high‐level deposits, are prone to weathering and often lack datable material. Where valleys are incised through karst areas, caves and sediments can be used to reconstruct the landscape evolution because they can record the elevation of palaeo‐water tables and contain preserved datable material. In Normandy (N. France), the Seine River is entrenched into an extensive karstic chalk plateau. Previous estimates of valley incision were hampered by the lack of preserved datable fluvial terraces. A stack of abandoned phreatic cave passages preserved in the sides of the Seine valley can be used to reconstruct the landscape evolution of the region. Combining geomorphological observations, palaeomagnetic and U/Th dating of speleothem and sediments in eight caves along the Lower Seine valley, we have constructed a new age model for cave development and valley incision. Six identified cave levels up to ∼100 m a.s.l. were formed during the last ~1 Ma, coeval with the incision of the Seine River. Passage morphologies indicate that the caves formed in a shallow phreatic/epiphreatic setting, modified by sediment influxes. The valley's maximum age is constrained by the occurrence of late Pliocene marine sand. Palaeomagnetic dating of cave infills indicates that the highest‐level caves were being infilled prior to 1.1 Ma. The evidence from the studied caves, complemented by fluvial terrace sequences, indicates that rapid river incision occurred during marine isotope stage (MIS) 28 to 20 (0.8–1 Ma), with maximal rates of ~0.30 m ka−1, dropping to ~0.08 m ka−1 between MIS 20–11 (0.8–0.4 Ma) and 0.05 m ka−1 from MIS 5 to the present time. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synergistic flame retardancy of tris(1‐methoxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐piperidin‐4‐yl)phosphite and tris(2,4,6‐tribromophenoxy)‐1,3,5‐triazine/Sb2O3 in high‐impact polystyrene
Authors: Wu Hongzhi , Yang Jingwei , Liu Junhong , Sun Mingmei , Wang Yinglong , Tang Linsheng
Published: March 2020

Synergistic flame retardancy of tris(1‐methoxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐piperidin‐4‐yl) phosphite (NORPM) and tris(2,4,6‐tribromophenoxy)‐1,3,5‐triazine (TTBPC)/Sb2O3 in high‐impact polystyrene (HIPS) was studied by limiting oxygen index (LOI) determination, UL‐94 test, and cone calorimetry test (CCT). NORPM has an exceptional synergistic effect in HIPS. When the dosage of TTBPC, Sb2O3, and NORPM was 12.8, 3.2, and 0.5 wt% respectively, flame retardant effectivity and synergistic effectivity were 0.424 and 1.15 respectively. Compared with the Flame retardant (FR)‐HIPS containing 16.0 wt% of TTBPC/Sb2O3, the LOI of FR‐HIPS increases from 23.8% to 25.4%, the flame‐retardant rating of FR‐HIPS can be improved from UL 94 V‐2 to V‐0, and the peak heat release rate and total heat release are significantly reduced by combining NORPM in 0.5 wt% concentration. NORPM induces the synergistic effect mainly through the following mechanisms: the active radicals produced by the pyrolysis of NORPM promote the release of bromine radicals from TTBPC and the formation of HBr, which improves the flame retardancy of TTBPC; the above active radicals, together with HBr, quench active free radicals, such as the hydroxyl radical (·OH) and decompose the free radical source, which interrupts the chain reaction during combustion and results in a more efficient flame retardant effect in gaseous phase.
Long‐Term Study of Hepatitis Delta Virus Infection at Secondary Care Centers: The Impact of Viremia on Liver‐Related Outcomes
Authors: Kamal Habiba , Westman Gabriel , Falconer Karolin , Duberg Ann‐Sofi , Weiland Ola , Haverinen Susanna , Wejstål Rune , Carlsson Tony , Kampmann Christian , Larsson Simon B. , Björkman Per , Nystedt Anders , Cardell Kristina , Svensson Stefan , Stenmark Stephan , Wedemeyer Heiner , Aleman Soo
Published: March 2020

Background and Aims

Hepatitis delta virus (HDV) infection is associated with fast progression to liver cirrhosis and liver complications. Previous studies have, however, been mainly from tertiary care centers, with risk for referral bias toward patients with worse outcomes. Furthermore, the impact of HDV viremia per se on liver‐related outcomes is not really known outside the human immunodeficiency virus co‐infection setting. We have therefore evaluated the long‐term impact of HDV viremia on liver‐related outcomes in a nationwide cohort of patients with hepatitis B and D co‐infection, cared for at secondary care centers in Sweden.

Approach and Results

In total, 337 patients with anti‐HDV positivity, including 233 patients with HDV RNA viremia and 91 without HDV viremia at baseline, were retrospectively studied, with a mean follow‐up of 6.5 years (range, 0.5‐33.1). The long‐term risks for liver‐related events (i.e., hepatocellular carcinoma [HCC], hepatic decompensation, or liver‐related death/transplantation) were assessed, using Cox regression analysis. The risk for liver‐related events and HCC was 3.8‐fold and 2.6‐fold higher, respectively, in patients with HDV viremia compared with those without viremia, although the latter was not statistically significant. Among patients with HDV viremia with no baseline cirrhosis, the cumulative risk of being free of liver cirrhosis or liver‐related events was 81.9% and 64.0% after 5 and 10 years of follow‐up, respectively. This corresponds to an incidence rate of 0.04 cases per person‐year.

Conclusions

HDV RNA viremia is associated with a 3.8‐fold higher risk for liver‐related outcomes. The prognosis was rather poor for patients with HDV viremia without cirrhosis at baseline, but it was nevertheless more benign than previous estimates from tertiary centers. Our findings may be of importance when making decisions about treatment and evaluating potential outcomes of upcoming antivirals against HDV.
The rise of new psychoactive substances and psychiatric implications: A wide‐ranging, multifaceted challenge that needs far‐reaching common legislative strategies
Authors: Rinaldi Raffaella , Bersani Giuseppe , Marinelli Enrico , Zaami Simona
Published: March 2020

The ever‐growing number of novel psychoactive substances (NPS) that have been surfacing globally, as well as related changes in drug abuse trends, undoubtedly constitute a difficult and multifaceted challenge for psychiatry. The intake and abuse of such substances has been linked to a risk of psychopathological disturbances, which stem from imbalances of a range of neurotransmitter pathways and receptors. Through an analysis of relevant research articles and reviews (particularly those outlining NPS neurological and cerebral mechanisms of action and psychopathological consequences arising from NPS abuse; research papers more closely focused on chemical/pharmacological aspects have been ruled out), through a systematic analysis of Pubmed, Medline, PsycLIT and EMBASE literature, as well as data released by health care institutions and drug enforcement agencies (among which the World Health Organization, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, Eurojust, the Novel Psychoactive Treatment UK Network, the Court of Justice of the European Union), the authors aimed to elaborate on the most relevant data relative to NPS‐related psychiatric effects, focusing on the conceptual and definition‐related complexities inherent to NPS, clinical management and motivations for NPS use; moreover, an effort has been made to highlight the possible measures in order to tackle the unremitting rise of such elusive and potentially harmful substances.
A Japanese man with spina bifida who successfully fathered a child following fertility treatment
Authors: Gotoh Daisuke , Aoki Katsuya , Morizawa Yosuke , Hori Shunta , Itami Yoshitaka , Miyake Makito , Torimoto Kazumasa , Momose Hitoshi , Fujimoto Kiyohide
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Spina bifida is a congenital anomaly caused by a neural tube closure defect that may result in sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction and infertility are prevalent in spina bifida patients but have been scarcely reported.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 36‐year‐old man with spina bifida and mild‐moderate erectile dysfunction. He could experience erection and ejaculation. He got married at the age of 28 years, but his wife was unable to conceive for 2 years thereafter. Semen analyses revealed that semen volume, sperm density, and sperm motility rate were below normal levels. It was concluded that natural conception would be difficult, and assisted reproductive strategies were planned. After 4 years, his wife conceived through intracytoplasmic sperm injection and gave birth to a healthy baby.

Conclusion

Fertility treatment, including intracytoplasmic sperm injection, is a useful therapeutic method for male patients with spina bifida who desire to father a child.
SIMULATION–OPTIMIZATION MODELLING FOR WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT USING NSGAII‐OIP AND MODFLOW
Authors: Lalehzari R. , Boroomand Nasab S. , Moazed H. , Haghighi A. , Yaghoobzadeh M.
Published: March 2020

Optimal water allocation may be considered a valuable solution to increase the productivity of water resources in arid and semi‐arid areas. To achieve this purpose, the main resources of water consumption in the Baghmalek Plain (Khuzestan Province) from October 2014 to September 2015 and the groundwater table for 12 years (2002–2014) were simulated. Multi‐objective optimization of the cropping pattern and groundwater simulation model have been programmed to generate a decision system in agricultural water management. Groundwater flow was simulated to address optimal discharge scenarios based on a finite difference numerical approach using MODFLOW software. The study years were divided into 48 seasonal stress periods and coefficients of hydraulic conductivity, specific yield and recharge were calibrated (36 periods) and verified (12 periods). The results showed that the flow model had an acceptable simulation accuracy by variance of 2.9 and 3.84 in the calibration and verification processes, respectively. Furthermore, precipitation is the main source of water supplying the cropping pattern, especially in the water‐deficit scenario when total water demand is not fully satisfied. © 2020 International Commission for Irrigation and Drainage
Design theory and some forbidden configurations
Authors: Anstee R. P. , Barekat Farzin , Pellegrin Zachary
Published: March 2020

In this paper we relate ‐designs to a forbidden configuration problem in extremal set theory. Let denote a column of 1's on top of 0's. Let denote the matrix consisting of rows of 1's and rows of 0's. We consider extremal problems for matrices avoiding certain submatrices. Let be a (0, 1)‐matrix forbidding any submatrix . Assume is ‐rowed and only columns of sum are allowed to be repeated. Assume that has the maximum number of columns subject to the given restrictions. Assume is sufficiently large. Then has each column of sum and exactly once and, given the appropriate divisibility condition, the columns of sum correspond to a ‐design with block size and parameter . The proof derives a basic upper bound on the number of columns of by a pigeonhole argument and then a careful argument, for large m, reduces the bound by a substantial amount down to the value given by design‐based constructions. We extend in a few directions.
Developing a mini biodiesel production line via sequential conversion to purification from Scenedesmus acuminatus S4 grown in domestic wastewater
Authors: Tran Dang Thuan , Ta Thuy Nguyen , Do Thi Hong Nhung , Pham Thi Mai , Doan Thi Bich Hoa , Mai Thi Huyen Thuong , Van Do Thi Cam , Le Truong Giang , Nguyen Van Tuyen
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

Full demonstrations of the production of microalgal biodiesel from conversion to purification have been reported only rarely in the literature. This study was aimed at developing a mini production line consisting of sequential conversion, extraction and purification of biodiesel from Scenedesmus acuminatus S4 grown in domestic wastewater.

RESULTS

The data showed that the separated conversion‐extraction (SCE) produced biodiesel with high yield (99.9%) and purity (87.5%) at 200 g L–1 biomass loading, 5% H2SO4/methanol (v/v) catalyst loading, 100 °C reaction temperature and 200 rpm stirring rate, in a 1 h conversion reaction, followed by extraction with hexane (10 mL:1 g dry cell weight) by mixing for 10 min (200 rpm) at 25 °C. The integrated conversion‐extraction (ICE) performed by simultaneous addition of hexane to the biomass and the catalytic solution mixture under the optimized conditions, achieved biodiesel yield and purity of 91.9% and 81.4%, respectively. Crude biodiesel was purified by 40% (w/v) adsorbents [Magnesol and D‐sol® (D60)]/crude biodiesel achieving >95% fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) purity, which is superior to the results in the literature and equivalent to fuel grade standard.

CONCLUSIONS

Fuel grade biodiesel was successfully produced from S. acuminatus S4 via sequential steps of direct conversion, extraction and purification. The conversion step can be performed via SCE or ICE followed by extraction to obtain crude biodiesel (99% yield and 87.5% purity), whereas the purification step was implemented by dry‐washing with Magnesol or D‐sol® (D60) to >95% FAME. The current production line has technical merits that need to be further optimized for large‐scale application. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Research on the drag reduction property of puffer (Takifugu flavidus) spinal nonsmooth structure surface
Authors: Zhou Honggen , Liu Chenqing , Tian Guizhong , Feng Xiaoming , Jia Changfeng
Published: March 2020

Puffers show good drag reduction performance during migration. It is worth noting that spines which are different from ordinary fish scales are densely distributed on the puffer skin. Here, the special morphological structure of puffer spines was observed using microscopy techniques, accurate contour models were established based on image processing techniques and curve fitting, then feature sizes were obtained. Based on the results, the nonsmooth surface was established by orthogonal test to simulate the flow field. In addition, the influence of spinal structure on boundary layer flow field and the drag reduction property of nonsmooth surface were further analyzed. The nonsmooth surface formed by spinal structure elements can effectively reduce the wall shear stress and Reynolds stress, and there was a special “climbing vortex” phenomenon, so as to reduce the surface viscous friction resistance and achieve drag reduction. Compared with the smooth surface, the drag reduction rate of the nonsmooth surface was 12.94% when the inflow velocity was 5 m/s, which revealed and verified the drag reduction performance of the spines of puffer skin. The results lay a foundation for further research and optimization of drag reduction ability of nonsmooth surface of bionic spines.

Highlights

The contour of the spinous process was accurately reflected by the Fourier function.

The spines of puffer skin have good drag reduction effect.

There was a special “climbing vortex” phenomenon to explain the drag reduction property.
Racial and ethnic differences in genetic counseling experiences and outcomes in the United States: A systematic review
Authors: Southwick Sabrina V. , Esch Riley , Gasser Rachel , Cragun Deborah , Redlinger‐Grosse Krista , Marsalis Scott , Zierhut Heather A.
Published: March 2020

As genetic counseling services expand and reach a wider catchment of the population, there is a critical need to better understand the impact of services on a greater diversity of patients. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate genetic counseling experiences and outcomes among racial and ethnic minorities. Six databases extracted articles published from 2005 to 2019 that assessed genetic counseling participation, knowledge and awareness, motivators, barriers, perceptions, and outcomes for racial and ethnic minority populations in the United States. Genetic counseling outcomes were categorized using the Framework for Outcomes of Clinical commUnication Services. A total of 1,227 abstracts were identified, of which 23 papers met inclusion criteria. Results suggest the possibility of racial and ethnic differences in some genetic counseling experiences and outcomes but noted differences were not adequately replicated between studies. The few included studies differed greatly in aims, methods, and results, which made comparison across study designs challenging and effectively barred thematic analysis. Additional research is needed that includes more study populations and settings with patients of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as more structured study designs that allow for elucidations of differences between White and non‐White populations.
The importance of personalismo: Navigating obstacles in recruitment strategies for Spanish speakers in marginalized communities
Authors: Glanton Emily , Yarrington Christina D. , Calderwood Laurel , Torrey Sosa Lillian , Connors Philip D.
Published: March 2020

Recruitment obstacles with Spanish‐speaking individuals and members of marginalized communities have been documented in the literature in narrative form, but quantitative data on effective strategies are limited. Within our research protocol assessing the impact of a storytelling intervention on knowledge and uptake of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) aneuploidy screening, three different recruitment strategies were trialed and enrollment rates were compared. Throughout the study, field notes were collected from observations in recruitment efforts. We demonstrate the effectiveness of language‐concordant, personal interactions, and culturally tailored materials for recruitment of Spanish‐speaking participants into genomic research studies. We also offer commentary on the experience of the researchers that provides insights to inform recruitment methods for marginalized communities.
Genetic counselor implicit bias and its effects on cognitive and affective exchanges in racially discordant simulations
Authors: Lowe Chenery L. , Beach Mary Catherine , Roter Debra L.
Published: March 2020

Previous studies have linked clinicians' implicit racial bias with less patient‐centered communication between healthcare providers and patients in a variety of healthcare contexts. The current study extends this research by exploring the influence of implicit racial bias in genetic counselors' (GCs') facilitation of simulated clients' cognitive and emotional processing during genetic counseling sessions. We conducted a secondary analysis of a nationally representative sample of genetic counseling sessions of White and ethnic and/or racial minority (Black and Latinx) simulated clients with a subset of 60 GCs who had completed a Race Implicit Association Test (IAT). Linguistic Inquiry Word Count (LIWC) was applied to session transcripts to identify word use by the simulated client consistent with emotional and cognitive processing. The Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) was used to link GC statements consistent with facilitation of emotional and cognitive processing, as used in previous studies. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to relate LIWC and RIAS variables to GC IAT scores, client race/ethnicity, and statistical interaction between GC IAT scores and client race/ethnicity. GCs used more cognitive facilitation strategies with ethnic and/or racial minority than with White clients (p = .04). There were no statistically significant associations between GCs' pro‐White implicit bias and GCs' facilitation of cognitive and emotional processing or clients' use of positive, negative, or cognitive process words. While implicit bias may affect some communication processes, our analysis did not show a relationship between GC IAT score and how GCs help clients process emotional or cognitive information conveyed during a session. It is also possible that the LIWC measure of cognitive and emotional processing is not a sensitive enough measure to capture an implicit bias effect if indeed one is present.
On nonfeasible edge sets in matching‐covered graphs
Authors: Zhao Xiao , Dong Fengming , Chen Sheng
Published: March 2020

Let be a matching‐covered graph and be an edge set of . is said to be feasible if there exist two perfect matchings and in such that . For any is said to be switching‐equivalent to , where is the set of edges in each of which has exactly one end in and is the symmetric difference of two sets and . Lukot'ka and Rollová showed that when is regular and bipartite, is nonfeasible if and only if is switching‐equivalent to . This article extends Lukot'ka and Rollová's result by showing that this conclusion holds as long as is matching‐covered and bipartite. This article also studies matching‐covered graphs whose nonfeasible edge sets are switching‐equivalent to or and partially characterizes these matching‐covered graphs in terms of their ear decompositions. Another aim of this article is to construct infinite many ‐connected and ‐regular graphs of class 1 containing nonfeasible edge sets not switching‐equivalent to either or for an arbitrary integer with , which provides a negative answer to a problem proposed by He et al.
Pure pairs. III. Sparse graphs with no polynomial‐sized anticomplete pairs
Authors: Chudnovsky Maria , Fox Jacob , Scott Alex , Seymour Paul , Spirkl Sophie
Published: March 2020

A graph is ‐free if it has no induced subgraph isomorphic to , and |G| denotes the number of vertices of . A conjecture of Conlon, Sudakov and the second author asserts that:

For every graph , there exists such that in every ‐free graph with |G| there are two disjoint sets of vertices, of sizes at least and , complete or anticomplete to each other.

This is equivalent to:

The “sparse linear conjecture”: For every graph , there exists such that in every ‐free graph with , either some vertex has degree at least , or there are two disjoint sets of vertices, of sizes at least and , anticomplete to each other.

We prove a number of partial results toward the sparse linear conjecture. In particular, we prove it holds for a large class of graphs , and we prove that something like it holds for all graphs . More exactly, say is “almost‐bipartite” if is triangle‐free and can be partitioned into a stable set and a set inducing a graph of maximum degree at most one. (This includes all graphs that arise from another graph by subdividing every edge at least once.) Our main result is:

The sparse linear conjecture holds for all almost‐bipartite graphs .

(It remains open when is the triangle .) There is also a stronger theorem:

For every almost‐bipartite graph , there exist such that for every graph with and maximum degree less than , and for every with , either contains induced copies of , or there are two disjoint sets with and , and with at most edges between them.

We also prove some variations on the sparse linear conjecture, such as:

For every graph , there exists such that in every ‐free graph with vertices, either some vertex has degree at least , or there are two disjoint sets of vertices with , anticomplete to each other.
Graph‐like compacta: Characterizations and Eulerian loops
Authors: Espinoza Benjamin , Gartside Paul , Pitz Max
Published: March 2020

A compact graph‐like space is a triple , where is a compact, metrizable space, is a closed zero‐dimensional subset, and is an index set such that . New characterizations of compact graph‐like spaces are given, connecting them to certain classes of continua, and to standard subspaces of Freudenthal compactifications of locally finite graphs. These are applied to characterize Eulerian graph‐like compacta.
Synthesis of novel bis‐ and poly(benzimidazoles) as well as bis‐ and poly(benzothiazoles) as anticancer agents
Authors: Hebishy Ali M. S. , Abdelfattah Mohamed S. , Elmorsy Abdullah , Elwahy Ahmed H. M.
Published: March 2020

A synthesis of bis‐ and poly(benzimidazoles) as well as bis‐ and poly(benzothiazoles) was attempted using different protocols. The best results were obtained by employing the reaction of the appropriate bis‐ or poly(aldehydes) with o‐phenylenediamine or 2‐aminothiophenol, respectively, in ethanol at reflux in the presence of NaHSO3. The anticancer activities of the synthesized compounds were evaluated against human breast adenocarcinoma cell line (MCF‐7), liver cancer cell line (HepG‐2), and epithelial colorectal adenocarcinoma cells (CaCO‐2). Hexakis(benzothiazole) was found to exhibit the highest activity against HepG‐2 and MCF‐7 cell lines with IC50 values of 21.16 and 13.25 μM, respectively.
“I just believe there is a risk” understanding of undetectable equals untransmissible (U = U) among health providers and HIV‐negative partners in serodiscordant relationships in Kenya
Authors: Ngure Kenneth , Ongolly Fernandos , Dolla Annabell , Awour Merceline , Mugwanya Kenneth K , Irungu Elizabeth , Mugo Nelly , Bukusi Elizabeth A , Morton Jennifer , Odoyo Josephine , Wamoni Elizabeth , Barnabee Gena , Peebles Kathryn , O'Malley Gabrielle , Baeten Jared M ,   for the Partners Scale‐Up Project Team
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Sustained HIV viral suppression resulting from antiretroviral therapy (ART) eliminates the risk of HIV transmission, a concept popularly framed as Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U). We explored knowledge and acceptance of information around the elimination of HIV transmission risk with ART (U = U) in Kenya.

Methods

Our qualitative study was conducted within a project evaluating the use of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) integrated into ART care for HIV serodiscordant couples in public clinics in Kenya (the Partners Scale Up Project). From February 2017 to April 2019, we conducted semi‐structured key informant interviews with 83 health providers and in‐depth interviews with 61 HIV‐negative people in serodiscordant relationships receiving PrEP services. Transcripts were coded using thematic analysis.

Results

Health providers reported being aware of reduced risk of HIV transmission as a result of consistent ART use and used words such as “very low,” “minimal” and “like zero” to describe HIV transmission risk after viral suppression. Providers reported finding viral load results helpful when counselling clients about the risk of HIV transmission. Many lacked confidence in U = U and counselled on consistent condom use even after viral suppression while some expressed concerns that communicating this message to people living with HIV (PLHIV) would lead them to engage in multiple sexual relationships. Other providers reported that they did not counsel about the reduced risk of HIV transmission after viral suppression for fear of being blamed if HIV transmission occurred. HIV‐negative partners reported being informed about U = U by providers but they did not believe nor trust the message. Even after their partners achieved viral suppression, some HIV‐negative partners were unwilling to stop PrEP, while others indicated that they would use condoms if they stopped PrEP to be sure that they were protected from HIV.

Conclusions

Despite awareness that effective ART use eliminates HIV transmission risk, there is both a lack of in‐depth knowledge and conviction about the strategy among health providers and HIV‐negative partners in serodiscordant relationships. New strategies that go beyond communicating the science of U = U to consider the local social and clinical environments could maximize the effectiveness of U = U.
Quantitative MRI Reveals Microstructural Changes in the Upper Leg Muscles After Running a Marathon
Authors: Hooijmans Melissa T. , Monte Jithsa R.C. , Froeling Martijn , van den Berg‐Faay Sandra , Aengevaeren Vincent L. , Hemke Robert , Smithuis Frank F. , Eijsvogels Thijs M.H. , Bakermans Adrianus J. , Maas Mario , Nederveen Aart J. , Strijkers Gustav J.
Published: March 2020

Background

The majority of sports‐related injuries involve skeletal muscle. Unlike acute trauma, which is often caused by a single traumatic event leading to acute symptoms, exercise‐induced microtrauma may remain subclinical and difficult to detect. Therefore, novel methods to detect and localize subclinical exercise‐induced muscle microtrauma are desirable.

Purpose

To assess acute and delayed microstructural changes in upper leg muscles with multiparametric quantitative MRI after running a marathon.

Study Type

Longitudinal; 1‐week prior, 24–48 hours postmarathon and 2‐week follow‐up

Population

Eleven men participants (age: 47–68 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

Spin‐echo echo planar imaging (SE‐EPI) with diffusion weighting, multispin echo, Dixon, and fat‐suppressed turbo spin‐echo (TSE) sequences at 3T. MR datasets and creatine kinase (CK) concentrations were obtained at three timepoints.

Assessment

Diffusion parameters, perfusion fractions, and quantitative (q)T2 values were determined for hamstring and quadriceps muscles, TSE images were scored for acute injury. The vastus medialis and biceps femoris long head muscles were divided and analyzed in five segments to assess local damage.

Statistical Tests

Differences between timepoints in MR parameters were assessed with a multilevel linear mixed model and in CK concentrations with a Friedman test. Mean diffusivity (MD) and qT2 for whole muscle and muscle segments were compared using a multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA).

Results

CK concentrations were elevated (1194 U/L [166–3906], P < 0.001) at 24–48 hours postmarathon and returned to premarathon values (323 U/L [56–2216]) at 2‐week follow‐up. Most of the MRI diffusion indices in muscles without acute injury changed at 24–48 hours postmarathon and returned to premarathon values at follow‐up (MD, RD, and λ3; P < 0.006). qT2 values (P = 0.003) and perfusion fractions (P = 0.003) were higher at baseline compared to follow‐up. Local assessments of MD and qT2 revealed more pronounced changes than whole muscle assessment (2–3‐fold; P < 0.01).

Data Conclusion

Marathon running‐induced microtrauma was detected with MRI in individual whole upper leg muscles and even more pronounced on local segments.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:407–417.
Quantifying the Financial Savings of Motion Correction in Brain MRI: A Model‐Based Estimate of the Costs Arising From Patient Head Motion and Potential Savings From Implementation of Motion Correction
Authors: Slipsager Jakob M. , Glimberg Stefan L. , Søgaard Jes , Paulsen Rasmus R. , Johannesen Helle H. , Martens Pernille C. , Seth Alka , Marner Lisbeth , Henriksen Otto M. , Olesen Oline V. , Højgaard Liselotte
Published: March 2020

Background

Patient head motion is a major concern in clinical brain MRI, as it reduces the diagnostic image quality and may increase examination time and cost.

Purpose

To investigate the prevalence of MR images with significant motion artifacts on a given clinical scanner and to estimate the potential financial cost savings of applying motion correction to clinical brain MRI examinations.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

In all, 173 patients undergoing a PET/MRI dementia protocol and 55 pediatric patients undergoing a PET/MRI brain tumor protocol. The total scan time of the two protocols were 17 and 40 minutes, respectively.

Field Strength/Sequences

3 T, Siemens mMR Biograph, MPRAGE, DWI, T1 and T2‐weighted FLAIR, T2‐weighted 2D‐FLASH, T2‐weighted TSE.

Assessment

A retrospective review of image sequences from a given clinical MRI scanner was conducted to investigate the prevalence of motion‐corrupted images. The review was performed by three radiologists with different levels of experience using a three‐step semiquantitative scale to classify the quality of the images. A total of 1013 sequences distributed on 228 MRI examinations were reviewed. The potential cost savings of motion correction were estimated by a cost estimation for our country with assumptions.

Statistical Test

The cost estimation was conducted with a 20% lower and upper bound on the model assumptions to include the uncertainty of the assumptions.

Results

7.9% of the sequences had motion artifacts that decreased the interpretability, while 2.0% of the sequences had motion artifacts causing the images to be nondiagnostic. The estimated annual cost to the clinic/hospital due to patient head motion per scanner was $45,066 without pediatric examinations and $364,242 with pediatric examinations.

Data Conclusion

The prevalence of a motion‐corrupted image was found in 2.0% of the reviewed sequences. Based on the model, repayment periods are presented as a function of the price for applying motion correction and its performance.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 6 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:731–738.
Editorial for: “Normative Pancreatic Stiffness Levels and Related Influences Established by Magnetic Resonance Elastography in Volunteers”
Authors: Ehman Richard L.
Published: March 2020

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:459–460.
Exploring multiple‐cumulative trapping solid‐phase microextraction for olive oil aroma profiling
Authors: Mascrez Steven , Purcaro Giorgia
Published: March 2020

Headspace solid‐phase microextraction is a solvent‐free sample preparation technique that is based on the equilibrium among a three‐phase system, i.e., sample‐headspace‐fiber. A compromise between sensitivity and extraction time is usually needed to optimize the sample throughput, especially when a large number of samples are analyzed, as usually the case in cross‐samples studies. This work explores the capability of multiple‐cumulative trapping solid‐phase microextraction on the characterization of the aroma profiling of olive oils, exploiting the automation capability of a novel headspace autosampler. It was shown that multiple‐cumulative solid‐phase microextraction has the potential to improve the overall sensitivity and burst the level of information for cross‐sample studies by using cumulative shorter extraction times.
Development of organic solvents‐free mode of solidification of floating organic droplet–based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for the extraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from honey samples before their determination by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Fazaieli Farzin , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza , Farajzadeh Mir Ali , Feriduni Behruz , Mohebbi Ali
Published: March 2020

In this study, a green mode of solidification of floating organic droplet–based dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction has been developed for the extraction of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from honey samples before their determination by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. In this method, an appropriate volume of menthol:decanoic acid deep eutectic solvent (as an extraction solvent) is added on a sugar cube (as a disperser agent). In the following, the cube is released into the diluted honey sample placed in a tube. After manual shaking a cloudy state is obtained as a result of dispersing the extraction solvent droplets throughout the sample solution and the analytes are extracted into them. After placing the tube in an ice bath, the droplet of the extractant is solidified on the top of the solution. This drop is taken and after dissolving in acetonitrile, an aliquot of the solution is injected into the separation system. Under optimum conditions, the suggested approach had high extraction recoveries (76–93%) and enrichment factors (380–465), low limits of detection (14–52 ng/kg) and quantification (47–173 ng/kg), and satisfactory repeatability (relative standard deviation ≤ 9%).
Recent Trends in Female and Racial/Ethnic Minority Groups in U.S. Otolaryngology Residency Programs
Authors: Lopez Erin M. , Farzal Zainab , Ebert Charles S. , Shah Rupali N. , Buckmire Robert A. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Our objectives were to analyze the recent trends in applicants of otolaryngology‐head and neck surgery (Oto‐HNS) residency programs, including evolutions in sex and racial/ethnic distribution within the applicant pool and subsequent residency cohort.

Methods

Retrospective database and literature review. Data regarding applicants to Oto‐HNS programs as well as Oto‐HNS residents in the United States from 2008 to 2017 were analyzed from the Electronic Residency Application Service, National Resident Matching Program, and Journal of the American Medical Association.

Results

Between 2008 and 2018, the number of Oto‐HNS residency programs and residency positions offered increased from 105 to 112 and from 273 to 315, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between applicant sex in 2008 to 2012 compared to 2013 to 2018 (P > .05), but significantly more females made up the residency workforce from 2013 to 2018 compared to 2008 to 2012 (P < .001). However, the percentage increase in female residents from 2008 to 2017 was only 6.1% (29.8% to 35.9%). No statistically significant difference was present between applicant race in 2008 to 2012 compared to 2013 to 2018 (P > .05), but significantly more minority residents made up the residency workforce from 2013 to 2018 compared to 2008 to 2012 (P < .0001). However, the percentage increase in minority residents from 2008 to 2017 was only 4.9% (35.1% to 40%).

Conclusion

Women and minority racial and ethnic groups continue to be underrepresented among Oto‐HNS applicants. However, the presence of these groups among current residents has increased. Understanding and tracking these national trends yearly is critical for training a diverse future otolaryngology workforce.

Level of Evidence

VI Laryngoscope, 131:277–281, 2021
A triple‐layered hybrid coating with self‐organized microporous polymer film on magnesium for biodegradable implant applications
Authors: Bobby Kannan Mathan , Walter Rhys , Khakbaz Hadis , Zeng Rong‐Chang , Blawert Carsten
Published: March 2020

In this study, a triple‐layered hybrid coating with self‐organized microporous polymer film was developed on pure magnesium for biodegradable implant applications. Firstly, plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) technique was used to form a highly adherent but porous coating on magnesium metal. Secondly, the pores in the PEO coating were sealed by electrochemically depositing calcium phosphate (CaP). Finally, a self‐organized microporous biodegradable polymer, poly(l‐lactide acid) PLLA, was formed as a top coat on the material using spin coating method. The degradation resistance of the triple‐layer coated magnesium was evaluated using electrochemical techniques in simulated body fluid (SBF). The triple‐layered hybrid coating reduced the corrosion current density (icorr) of pure magnesium from 28.79 to 0.24 μA/cm2. Similarly, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results showed that the triple‐layered hybrid coating increased the polarization resistance (Rp) of pure magnesium more than three orders of magnitude after 2 hr exposure to SBF (pure Mg: 4.76 × 10+2 Ω cm2; triple‐layer coating: 8.67 × 10+5 Ω cm2). Although the Rp of the triple‐layer coated magnesium decreased with increase of immersion time in SBF (8 hr = 4.27 × 10+5 Ω cm2; 24 hr = 1.57 × 10+5 Ω cm2; 48 hr = 6.5 × 10+4 Ω cm2; 72 hr = 3.5 × 10+4 Ω cm2), it was noted that the Rp of the triple‐layer coated magnesium was two orders of magnitude greater than pure magnesium even after 72 hr exposure to SBF, which shows the robust nature of the coating. Further, the architecture and the dissolution mechanism of the triple‐layer coating suggest that the coating has a great potential for tailoring the degradation rate of magnesium for targeted implant applications.
Sequence‐based Detection of DNA‐binding Proteins using Multiple‐view Features Allied with Feature Selection
Authors: Zhou Liling , Song Xiaoning , Yu Dong‐Jun , Sun Jun
Published: March 2020

DNA‐binding proteins play essential roles in many molecular functions and gene regulation. Therefore, it becomes highly desirable to develop effective computational techniques for detecting DNA‐binding proteins. In this paper, we proposed a new method, iDBP‐DEP, which performs DNA‐binding prediction by using the discriminative feature derived from multi‐view feature sources including evolutionary profile, dipeptide composition, and physicochemical properties with feature selection. We evaluated iDBP‐DEP on two benchmark datasets, i. e., PDB1075 and PDB594 by rigorous Jackknife test. Compared with the state‐of‐the‐art sequence‐based DNA‐binding predictors, the proposed iDBP‐DEP achieved 1.8 % and 3.0 % improvements of accuracy (Acc) and Mathew's Correlation Coefficient (MCC), respectively, on PDB1075 dataset; 7.4 % and 14.8 % improvements of Acc and MCC, respectively, on PDB594. The independent validation test with PDB186 show that the proposed method achieved the best performances on Acc (80.1 %) and MCC (0.684), which further demonstrated the robustness of iDBP‐DEP for the detection of DNA‐binding proteins. Datasets and codes used in this study are freely available at https://githup.com/Zll‐codeside/iDBP‐DEP.
Cone‐beam CT for imaging of the head/brain: Development and assessment of scanner prototype and reconstruction algorithms
Authors: Wu P. , Sisniega A. , Stayman J. W. , Zbijewski W. , Foos D. , Wang X. , Khanna N. , Aygun N. , Stevens R. D. , Siewerdsen J. H.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Our aim was to develop a high‐quality, mobile cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner for point‐of‐care detection and monitoring of low‐contrast, soft‐tissue abnormalities in the head/brain, such as acute intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). This work presents an integrated framework of hardware and algorithmic advances for improving soft‐tissue contrast resolution and evaluation of its technical performance with human subjects.

Methods

Four configurations of a CBCT scanner prototype were designed and implemented to investigate key aspects of hardware (including system geometry, antiscatter grid, bowtie filter) and technique protocols. An integrated software pipeline (c.f., a serial cascade of algorithms) was developed for artifact correction (image lag, glare, beam hardening and x‐ray scatter), motion compensation, and three‐dimensional image (3D) reconstruction [penalized weighted least squares (PWLS), with a hardware‐specific statistical noise model]. The PWLS method was extended in this work to accommodate multiple, independently moving regions with different resolution (to address both motion compensation and image truncation). Imaging performance was evaluated quantitatively and qualitatively with 41 human subjects in the neurosciences critical care unit (NCCU) at our institution.

Results

The progression of four scanner configurations exhibited systematic improvement in the quality of raw data by variations in system geometry (source‐detector distance), antiscatter grid, and bowtie filter. Quantitative assessment of CBCT images in 41 subjects demonstrated: ~70% reduction in image nonuniformity with artifact correction methods (lag, glare, beam hardening, and scatter); ~40% reduction in motion‐induced streak artifacts via the multi‐motion compensation method; and ~15% improvement in soft‐tissue contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) for PWLS compared to filtered backprojection (FBP) at matched resolution. Each of these components was important to improve contrast resolution for point‐of‐care cranial imaging.

Conclusions

This work presents the first application of a high‐quality, point‐of‐care CBCT system for imaging of the head/ brain in a neurological critical care setting. Hardware configuration iterations and an integrated software pipeline for artifacts correction and PWLS reconstruction mitigated artifacts and noise to achieve image quality that could be valuable for point‐of‐care detection and monitoring of a variety of intracranial abnormalities, including ICH and hydrocephalus.
Free‐running 5D coronary MR angiography at 1.5T using LIBRE water excitation pulses
Authors: Masala Nemanja , Bastiaansen Jessica A. M. , Di Sopra Lorenzo , Roy Christopher W. , Piccini Davide , Yerly Jérôme , Colotti Roberto , Stuber Matthias
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To implement, optimize, and characterize lipid‐insensitive binomial off‐resonant RF excitation (LIBRE) pulses for fat‐suppressed fully self‐gated free‐running 5D cardiac MRI.

Methods

Bloch equation simulations were used to optimize LIBRE parameter settings in non‐interrupted bSSFP prior to in vitro validation. Thus, optimized LIBRE pulses were subsequently applied to free‐running coronary MRA in 20 human adult subjects, where resulting images were quantitatively compared to those obtained with non‐fat‐suppressing excitation (SP), conventional 1‐2‐1 water excitation (WE), and a previously published interrupted free‐running (IFR) sequence. SAR and scan times were recorded. Respiratory‐and‐cardiac‐motion‐resolved images were reconstructed with XD‐GRASP, and contrast ratios, coronary artery detection rate, vessel length, and vessel sharpness were computed.

Results

The numerically optimized LIBRE parameters were successfully validated in vitro. In vivo, LIBRE had the lowest SAR and a scan time that was similar to that of WE yet 18% shorter than that of IFR. LIBRE improved blood–fat contrast when compared to SP, WE, and IFR, vessel detection relative to SP and IFR, and vessel sharpness when compared to WE and IFR (for example, for the left main and anterior descending coronary artery, 51.5% ± 10.2% [LIBRE] versus 42.1% ± 6.8% [IFR]). Vessel length measurements remained unchanged for all investigated methods.

Conclusion

LIBRE enabled fully self‐gated non‐interrupted free‐running 5D bSSFP imaging of the heart at 1.5T with suppressed fat signal. Measures of image quality, vessel conspicuity, and scan time compared favorably to those obtained with the more conventional non‐interrupted WE and the previously published IFR, while SAR reduction offers added flexibility.
Evaluating Artificial Propagation Release Strategies for Recovering Endangered Snake River Sockeye Salmon
Authors: Johnson Eric L , Kozfkay Christine C , Powell John H , Peterson Mike P , Baker Dan J , Heindel Jeff A , Plaster Kurtis E , McCormick Joshua L , Kline Paul A
Published: March 2020

As a growing number of aquatic organisms become imperiled due to anthropogenic and environmental threats, there is an increasing need to implement captive propagation programs to conserve some species. These captive propagation programs can aid in the recovery of species, such as for Sockeye Salmon Oncorhynchus nerka, by providing individuals that can be used to supplement wild populations. The Snake River Sockeye Salmon Captive Broodstock Program implemented a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation plan to evaluate adult recruitment using three juvenile release strategies from excess eggs of captive females. Hatchery-produced eyed eggs, presmolts, and smolts were released into the upper Salmon River basin to increase the abundance of individuals expressing an anadromous life history as a way to support population augmentation. A mixed-effects logistic regression model used to evaluate egg-to-adult returns between release strategies indicated that release strategies differed from one another. Full-term smolt production was observed to produce the highest recruitment among the release strategies and has become the focus of recovery efforts involving juvenile releases. The estimated odds of a fish (egg) returning as an adult were 9.7 times greater for smolts reared at the Oxbow Fish Hatchery and 3.6 times greater for smolts reared at the Sawtooth Fish Hatchery relative to eggs that were hatchery reared and released as presmolts or placed into in-lake incubator boxes. The variation observed in productivity and in expression of life history traits among release strategies indicates that juvenile releases are not one size fits all, and we recommend undertaking a similar assessment to match observed outcomes with desired objectives when initiating supplementation programs.