bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical profile and midterm prognosis of left ventricular thrombus in heart failure
Authors: Lemaître Anne‐Iris , Picard François , Maurin Vincent , Faure Maxime , Dos Santos Pierre , Girerd Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Aims

We documented the midterm prognosis of left ventricular thrombus (LVT) in heart failure (HF) patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and ischaemic cardiomyopathy (ICM). We aimed to characterize patients with LVT in the context of HF with reduced (≤40%) left ventricular ejection fraction and evaluate their risk for death and/or embolic events, overall, and specifically in patients with ischaemic or non‐ischaemic aetiology. We also intended to identify risk factors for LVT in patients with DCM.

Methods and results

We included all HF patients (N = 105, age 56 ± 13) admitted from 2005 to 2018 in our institution for LVT without significant valve disease/prosthesis, heart transplant/left ventricular assist device, congenital heart disease, or acute myocardial infarction. Our primary endpoint was the 1 year risk of the composite of all‐cause mortality (ACM) and symptomatic embolic events. Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 23 ± 9%, and median BNP was 1795 pg/mL. Most (97%) patients were treated with vitamin K anticoagulants, and 64% had ICM. Symptomatic embolic events and/or ACM occurred in 20% of the population [embolic events (all within 30 days of LVT diagnosis) 15% and ACM 6%] and was similarly frequent in DCM or ICM (P > 0.05). Suspected/transient embolic events were more frequent in DCM (overall 13%; 29% in DCM vs. 5% in ICM, P < 0.01). Major bleeding occurred in 5% of patients. Left ventricular reverse remodelling occurred in 65% of patients, more frequently in DCM (86% in DCM vs. 65% in ICM, P = 0.02). In a case–control analysis matching DCM patients, BNP level was the only factor significantly associated with LVT (2447 pg/mL in LVT vs. 347 pg/mL, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Patients with LVT have markedly high natriuretic peptides and experience a 20% 1 year risk for embolic events and/or death following diagnosis despite anticoagulant treatment. Most patients have favourable remodelling/recovery. As all symptomatic embolic events occurred within 30 days of LVT diagnosis, a very careful initial management is warranted.
Identification and quantification of phenolic and fatty acid profiles in Pinus halepensis mill. seeds by LC‐ESI‐MS and GC: Effect of drying methods on chemical composition
Authors: Mahdhi Amani , Ghazghazi Hanene , El Aloui Meriem , Ben Salem Ridha , Rigane Ghayth
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to evaluate Pinus halepensis Mill. seeds oil as well as methanolic‐aqueous extract on fatty acid and phenolic's composition as well as antioxidant activities with regard to the cones drying methods: convection and sun methods. The highest amounts of total phenols (14.63 ± 0.05 mg GAE/g DW), flavonoids (3.3 ± 0.02 mg QE/g DW), and condensed tannins (0.36 ± 0.05 mg CE/g DW) were showed in the seeds obtained by sun‐dried method. Methanolic‐aqueous seeds extracts were subjected to LC‐ESI‐MS analysis in order to identify and quantify the phenolic composition. This technique allowed us to identify eleven phenolic compounds: two phenolic acids and nine flavonoid compounds such as cirsiliol, catechin (+), luteolin, and luteolin‐7‐O‐glucoside, which were present in the two studied samples while apigenin, naringenin, and cirsilineol were only identified in the extract obtained from sun‐drying method seeds. The chemical components of the oils were analyzed using GC, and significant differences were found between the two studied seeds oil (p < .05). Furthermore, the antioxidant activities were investigated using DPPH and ABTS.+ assays. The results showed that the methanolic‐aqueous extract from seeds dried by sun method had the highest antioxidant activities (0.08 and 0.05 mg/ml, respectively). This study could provide useful information for industry to produce potentially bioactive plant extract.
Identification of the promising Persian walnut (Juglans regia L.) genotypes among seedling‐originated trees
Authors: Mirmahdi Narjes‐Sadat , Khadivi Ali
Published: February 2021

Considerable genetic diversity among the native populations of Persian walnut (Juglans regia L.) provides a great opportunity to identify genotypes with valuable traits. In the present study, morphological and pomological diversity assessments of 362 walnut seedling origin genotypes were performed to identify superior genotypes. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes investigated in terms of the evaluated characters. Nut weighted from 5.53 to 19.24 g with an average of 10.67. The range of kernel weight was 1.78–9.28 g with an average of 4.83. Kernel percentage in 107 out of 362 genotypes studied was more than 50.00%. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) showed that kernel percentage was associated with kernel weight, nut weight, kernel filled, nut width, and shell thickness. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the characters related to nut and kernel size were correlated with the first component (PC1). Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) showed that the genotypes were clustered into two major clusters. Based on the most important commercial characters considered by breeders to select ideal walnuts, 15 superior genotypes were selected and are recommended for cultivation in the orchards and also can be used in breeding programs.
The Fernow Experimental Forest, West Virginia, USA: Insights, datasets, and opportunities
Authors: Guillén Luis Andrés , Adams Mary Beth , Elliot Emily , Hubbart Jason , Kelly Charlene , McNeil Brenden , Peterjohn William , Zegre Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Long‐term experimental watershed studies have significantly influenced our global understanding of hydrological processes. The discovery and characterization of how stream water quantity and quality respond to a changing environment (e.g. land‐use change, acidic deposition) has only been possible due to the establishment of catchments devoted to long‐term study. One such catchment is the Fernow Experimental Forest (FEF) located in the headwaters of the Appalachian Mountains in West Virginia, a region that provides essential freshwater ecosystem services to eastern and mid‐western United States communities. Established in 1934, the FEF is among the earliest experimental watershed studies in the Eastern United States that continues to address emergent challenges to forest ecosystems, including climate change and other threats to forest health. This data note describes available data and presents some findings from more than 50 years of hydrologic research at the FEF. During the first few decades, research at the FEF focused on the relationship between forest management and hydrological processes—especially those related to the overall water balance. Later, research included the examination of interactions between hydrology and soil erosion, biogeochemistry, N‐saturation, and acid deposition. Hydro‐climatologic and water quality datasets from long‐term measurements and data from short‐duration studies are publicly available to provide new insights and foster collaborations that will continue to advance our understanding of hydrology in forested headwater catchments. As a result of its rich history of research and abundance of long‐term data, the FEF is positioned to continue to advance understanding of forest ecosystems in a time of unprecedented change.
Long‐term groundwater resource observatory for Southwestern Madagascar
Authors: Carrière Simon D. , Health Thomas , Rakotomandrindra Pascale F. M. , Ollivier Chloé , Rajaomahefasoa Riva E. , Rakoto Heritiana A. , Lapègue Jean , Rakotoarison Yves E. , Mangin Marie , Kempf Jean , Razakamanana Théodore , Chalikakis Konstantinos
Published: February 2021

Madagascar has one of the highest poverty rates in the world and consequently the long‐term monitoring of groundwater resources is not a priority for the authorities. However, groundwater is often the only sustainable resource that has a satisfactory quality to supply the population. This is especially true in the south‐west of the country, which is a semi‐arid region and a global change hot spot (intense land use and climate changes). In response to the lack of data, the Groundwater Resource Observatory for Southwestern Madagascar (GROSoM) was established to monitor piezometry and meteorology over the longer term as part of a humanitarian response. The first site was setup in 2014 in a catchment located over a carbonate plateau; in 2018, a second site was installed in an alluvial setting within a crystalline basement catchment and a third site will be installed in 2020 to monitor groundwater dynamics in a coastal setting. The three sites, located between Toliara and Taolagnaro cities, are complementary and representative of various hydrogeological systems in Southwestern Madagascar. Each site includes a weather station and between 3 and 6 piezometric probes. The monitoring data indicate a strong inter‐annual variability in precipitation, which induces a strong variability in aquifers recharge. One of the driest years in 2016 seems to be consistent with strong El Niño – Southern Oscillation (ENSO) effects observed at the global scale, while years with higher recharge appear to be related to cyclones such as Fundi in 2015 and Eketsang in 2019. Preliminary results of cross‐disciplinary studies demonstrated a link between groundwater and health issues (i.e., admissions to basic health centres). This observatory aims to produce long‐term data and has two objectives: (i) strengthening the early warning system for humanitarian crises in Madagascar; (ii) contributing to a better understanding of the effects of climate change on groundwater resources in this semi‐arid region.
Effects of clear‐cutting, meteorological, and physiological factors on evapotranspiration in the Kamabuchi experimental watershed in northern Japan
Authors: Kubota Tayoko , Kagawa Akira , Abe Toshio , Hosoda Ikuhiro
Published: February 2021

This study investigated the effects of clear‐cutting and the meteorological and physiological factors on forest evapotranspiration (ET), by using the water‐budget method in the Kamabuchi experimental watershed (KMB; 38° 56′ 21″ N, 140° 15′ 58″ E) in northern Japan. Meteorological and discharge data collected during no‐snow periods (from June to October) from 1939 were used to compareETin three sub‐watersheds: No. 1, where the forest had been left undisturbed, and No. 2 and No. 3, whereCryptomeria japonicawas planted after clear‐cutting. Paired watershed experiments revealed that clear‐cutting causedETto decrease by approximately 100 mm yr−1, and this reduction continued for more than 20 years, even afterC. japonicawas planted.ETfluctuated similarly across all watersheds, regardless of clear‐cutting or planting. This fluctuation is mainly caused by solar radiation and temperature. Intrinsic water‐use efficiency (iWUE) calculated usingδ13Cof tree‐ring cellulose inC. japonicaincreased due to elevated atmospheric CO2concentration. We estimated annual carbon fixation in a single tree as the annual net photosynthesis (A). Subsequently, transpiration (E) was calculated from the relationship betweeniWUEandA. The results showed thatAandEper tree increased as the tree grew older; however, the trees' responses to increasingcasuppress the increase inET. Moreover, the fluctuation ofETfrom the watershed was small compared to the fluctuation ofPduring the observation periods because the increase and decrease inEand interception loss complemented each other.
Prediction score for recurrent adnexal torsion in women with a previous adnexal torsion
Authors: Meyer Raanan , Meller Nir , Mohr‐Sasson Aya , Abu‐Bandora Eiman , Cohen Adiel , Tamir Mordechai , Mashiach Roy , Levin Gabriel
Published: February 2021

Objective

To develop a risk score for preoperative prediction of recurrent adnexal torsion (rAT) among women with a history of previous adnexal torsion (AT).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study. We included women with a history of AT, presenting with suspected rAT who underwent diagnostic laparoscopy between March 2011 and March 2020. We compared women with rAT to those without. We constructed a prediction score and validated it in a prospectively collected cohort between April 2020 and June 2020.

Results

One hundred and fifteen women composed the study cohort. Recurrent AT was confirmed laparoscopically in 86 (74.8%) cases. A risk score for rAT was developed, based on three associated factors: enlarged ovary, no previous oophoropexy and current IVF treatment. In the construction cohort, the rate of torsion was 44.4%, 67.9%, 82.9% and 100% if none, one, two, or three risk factors were present, respectively. In the prospective validation of the risk score, the prediction of one and two risk factors was 60.0% and 100% respectively.

Conclusion

Enlarged ovary is independently associated with preoperative rAT diagnosis. Coupled with information regarding the previous surgical approach in previous AT and current IVF use, these factors could be used to efficiently predict rAT among women with a previous AT.
Historical Perspective: Metchnikoff and the intestinal microbiome
Authors: Mowat Allan McI
Published: February 2021

Metchnikoff’s essay, Intestinal Bacteriotherapy, was written when the study of microbiology was still in its infancy and few intestinal diseases had been ascribed to a specific bacterial infection. Metchnikoff offered perceptive ideas that have become standard in today’s science.

This Historical Perspectives commentary examines how Metchnikoff’s article influenced our field. An accompanying editorial by Siamon Gordon explores this topic further and describes the relevance of Metchnikoff’s work to the current Covid-19 infection. We also include a translation of this fundamental article by Metchnikoff, as presented by Claudine Neyen.
Anatomy, variation, and asymmetry of the bronchial tree in the African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus)
Authors: Lawson Adam B. , Hedrick Brandon P. , Echols Scott , Schachner Emma R.
Published: February 2021

The avian bronchial tree has a unique and elaborate architecture for the maintenance of unidirectional airflow. Gross descriptions of this bronchial arrangement have traditionally relied upon dissection and casts of the negative (air‐filled) spaces. In this study, the bronchial trees of five deceased African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) were segmented from micro‐computed tomography (μCT) scans into three‐dimensional (3D) surface models, and then compared. Select metrics of the primary bronchi and major secondary branches in the μCT scans of 11 specimens were taken to assess left–right asymmetry and quantify gross lung structure. Analysis of the 3D surface models demonstrates variation in the number and distribution of secondary bronchi with consistent direct connections to specific respiratory air sacs. A single model of the parabronchi further reveals indirect connections to all but two of the nine total air sacs. Statistical analysis of the metrics show significant left–right asymmetry between the primary bronchi and the origins of the first four secondary bronchi (the ventrobronchi), consistently greater mean values for all right primary bronchus length metrics, and relatively high coefficients of variation for cross‐sectional area metrics of the primary bronchi and secondary bronchi ostia. These findings suggest that the lengths of the primary bronchi distal to the ventrobronchi do not preserve lung symmetry, and that aerodynamic valving can functionally accommodate a wide range of bronchial proportions.
Using Deep Learning to Emulate the Use of an External Contrast Agent in Cardiovascular 4D Flow MRI
Authors: Bustamante Mariana , Viola Federica , Carlhäll Carl‐Johan , Ebbers Tino
Published: February 2021

Background

Although contrast agents would be beneficial, they are seldom used in four‐dimensional (4D) flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) due to potential side effects and contraindications.

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a deep learning architecture to generate high blood–tissue contrast in noncontrast 4D flow MRI by emulating the use of an external contrast agent.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Of 222 data sets, 141 were used for neural network (NN) training (69 with and 72 without contrast agent). Evaluation was performed on the remaining 81 noncontrast data sets.

Field Strength/Sequences

  Gradient echo or echo‐planar 4D flow MRI at 1.5 T and 3 T.

Assessment

A cyclic generative adversarial NN was trained to perform image translation between noncontrast and contrast data. Evaluation was performed quantitatively using contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), structural similarity index (SSIM), mean squared error (MSE) of edges, and Dice coefficient of segmentations. Three observers performed a qualitative assessment of blood–tissue contrast, noise, presence of artifacts, and image structure visualization.

Statistical Tests

The Wilcoxon rank‐sum test evaluated statistical significance. Kendall's concordance coefficient assessed interobserver agreement.

Results

Contrast in the regions of interest (ROIs) in the NN enhanced images increased by 88%, CNR increased by 63%, and SNR improved by 48% (all P < 0.001). The SSIM was 0.82 ± 0.01, and the MSE of edges was 0.09 ± 0.01 (range [0,1]). Segmentations based on the generated images resulted in a Dice similarity increase of 15.25%. The observers managed to differentiate between contrast MR images and our results; however, they preferred the NN enhanced images in 76.7% of cases. This percentage increased to 93.3% for phase‐contrast MR angiograms created from the NN enhanced data. Visual grading scores were blood–tissue contrast = 4.30 ± 0.74, noise = 3.12 ± 0.98, and presence of artifacts = 3.63 ± 0.76. Image structures within and without the ROIs resulted in scores of 3.42 ± 0.59 and 3.07 ± 0.71, respectively (P < 0.001).

Data Conclusion

The proposed approach improves blood–tissue contrast in MR images and could be used to improve data quality, visualization, and postprocessing of cardiovascular 4D flow data.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Prematurity: A Prognostic Factor for Increased Severity of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Jaleel Zaroug , Schaeffer Tyler , Trinh Caroline , Cohen Michael B. , Levi Jessica R.
Published: February 2021

Objective/Hypothesis

Studies have suggested preterm birth, defined as gestational age (GA) <37 weeks, is a risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in later childhood. However, little is known about the characteristics, severity, and degree of intervention of childhood OSA in former preterm infants compared to term infants. This study compares polysomnographic characteristics and surgical interventions in former preterm and term infants presenting with sleep disordered breathing.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study from 2015 to 2019 at a single tertiary referral center.

Methods

Electronic Medical Records of pediatric patients ages 0 to 18 presenting with sleep disordered breathing were reviewed for gestational age, polysomnographic findings, clinical characteristics, and OSA surgical interventions. Association between gestational age, polysomnographic characteristics, and surgical interventions for OSA were reported.

Results

A total of 615 patient records were analyzed. Adjusting for covariates, prematurity was associated with a 2.97× higher likelihood of development of severe OSA (aOR (95%CI): 2.97 (1.40–6.32)), increased apneic‐hypoxic index (AHI) (mean (SD): 6.5 (9.8) vs. 4.6 (6.4), P < .05), increased end tidal CO2 (50.5 (5.11) vs. 48.5 (5.8), P < .05), decreased REM latency (116 (64.7) vs. 132.4 (69.9), P < .05), and increased number of surgeries for OSA (0.65 (.95) vs. 0.45 (0.69), P < .05) compared to children born at term. Children born with GA < 32 weeks presented at a significantly later age with sleep disordered breathing (7.04 (.80) vs. 5.1 (0.15), P < .05) than children born at term.

Conclusions

Prematurity was associated with increased likelihood of severe OSA, increased AHI, as well as increased number of surgical interventions for OSA compared to children born at term. These results suggest an association with preterm birth and increased severity of childhood OSA.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:1909–1914, 2021
Stand age rather than soil moisture gradient mainly regulates the compromise between plant growth and water use of Eucalyptus urophylla in hilly South China
Authors: Ouyang Lei , Wu Jin , Zhao Ping , Zhu Liwei , Ni Guangyan
Published: February 2021

Large‐scale cultivation and short‐term rotation of Eucalyptus trees for economic reasons have led to excessive consumption of soil water, raising broader ecological, and environmental concerns. Therefore, exploring the balance between water use and plant growth of Eucalyptus trees has become increasingly important but remains understudied. Here, we hypothesized that stand age and soil moisture gradient can both regulate such balance and examined this hypothesis by collecting a field dataset of Eucalyptus urophylla plantations that respectively capture three age categories (i.e., young age of 3–4 years, mature age of 6–7 years, and old age of >25 years) and span three soil moisture gradients along a hilly slope in South China. The datasets collected in Jan/2018–Dec/2019 included (a) continuous measurements of tree sap flow and soil moisture and (b) periodic measurements of leaf water potential (Ψleaf), tree biometric parameters, and stand leaf area index (LAI). With the data, we derived the monthly tree transpiration (EL), annual growth rate, and tree water use efficiency (WUE). Our results showed that stand age importantly regulated plant growth and water use, as old trees transpired more water than young and mature trees, while the young trees have significantly higher WUE due to their relatively higher growth rate and lower water consumption. In contrast, we did not observe significant differences in tree transpiration along with soil moisture gradients at each age level, suggesting stand age rather than soil moisture gradient dominantly regulates the growth versus water‐use compromise. Our results also showed that the old trees can maintain a more stable water consumption, suggesting that they are less sensitive to environmental seasonality and thus more stable. Collectively, our study provides important insights into the management and ecosystem stability of Eucalyptus plantation in South China.
Implementing land evaluation and site assessment (LESA system) in farmland protection: A case‐study in northeastern China
Authors: Qian Fengkui , Wang Weiwen , Wang Qiubing , Lal Rattan
Published: February 2021

Farmland evaluation has become a major topic in farmland protection research. Due to the lack of reasonable and scientifically reliable evaluation methods for farmland protection, the farmland of quality and covering a wide area are at high risk of degradation and destruction in China due mainly to rapid industrialization and urbanization. The land evaluation and site assessment (LESA) system has been successfully applied to protect important farmland globally. To better understand and testify the flexibility and suitability of the LESA system for farmland protection in different geomorphic regions in China, we investigated the delineation of basic farmland by applying and testing the LESA system in Liaoning Province of China. In this study, the LESA system was constructed and comprehensively evaluated through the land evaluation (LE) and site assessment (SA) subsystems; soil conditions suitable for agriculture and site conditions feasible for other land uses were selected in the LE and SA subsystems, respectively. The results demonstrated that the ratios of the LE and SA subsystems were 6:4, 5:5, and 4:6 in the middle plain area (MPA), eastern mountainous area (EMA), and western hilly area (WHA), respectively. Farmlands with LE scores over 80 accounted for 80.7%, 34.7%, and 28.6% in the MPA, WHA, and EMA, respectively. Moreover, 37.2% of farmland with high SA scores (over 50) was primarily distributed in the WHA, and only 7.1% and 0.4% in the MPA and EMA, respectively. The farmland ratios with LESA scores over 60 were 74.8%, 52.2%, and 30.2% in the MPA, EMA, and WHA, respectively. In particular, the total farmland was grouped into three primary categories, which scientifically demonstrated the suitability and compatibility of the farmland features and also provided guidance for the implementation of farmland consolidation and remediation techniques.
Ergonomic advantage of pistol‐grip endoscope in the ENT practice
Authors: Watanabe Itaru , Miyamoto Makoto , Nakagawa Hideki , Saito Koichiro
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Recent technology manufactured a nasopharyngeal videoscope with pistol‐shaped grip (PG). This study aimed to assess the ergonomic feasibility of this novel device in daily ENT practice.

Methods

To assess the ergonomic impact of grip shape on ENT physicians, conventional grip videoscope (CG) and PG were utilized in this study. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was recorded to assess the muscle activity in the upper limb during endoscopy on a training model. Bilateral sEMG recordings were performed including thenar muscle, pronator teres muscle, brachioradialis muscle, and biceps brachii muscle. Mean value of the mean sEMG amplitude throughout the task in triplicated examinations (mMA) with each electrode, total values of four mMAs in both of the grip‐side and the insertion tube‐side limb muscles, and total value of all eight mMAs were calculated, and compared between CG and PG. Subgroup analyses were also performed in the experienced ENT physicians and the residents.

Results

PG provided significantly lower mMA values in thenar muscle and brachioradialis muscle of the grip‐side limb compared with CG. Total value of four mMAs in PG was significantly lower compared with that in CG in the grip‐side limb, and total value of all eight mMAs in PG was significantly lower compared with that in CG. Furthermore, total value of four mMAs in PG was significantly lower compared with that in CG in the grip‐side limb, in both of the subgroups.

Conclusion

This is the first study to support the idea that the newly designed pistol‐grip endoscope may have an ergonomic advantage over conventional endoscope for otolaryngologists in daily practice.

Level of Evidence

4
Element cycling and aquatic function in a changing Arctic
Authors: Hernes Peter J. , Tank Suzanne E. , Sejr Mikael K. , Glud Ronnie N.
Published: February 2021

Arctic systems are under intense pressure from anthropogenic activities, with climate change in particular inducing rapid change in the interlinked cycling of water and various biogeochemical constituents, and thus also the ecological processes that depend on these cycles. This special issue for Limnology and Oceanography explores our changing Arctic, with contributions across the watershed‐lake‐river‐estuary‐coastal‐open ocean continuum, and foci ranging from physical and chemical processes to food webs. Some specific areas of focus include legacy pollution from mines, greenhouse gas emissions from lakes, riverine fluxes of materials, as well as the balance between primary production and respiration in the water column and benthos in marine systems. While varied in focus, as a collection the papers in this special issue do provide direction into key avenues for future effort. For example, while Arctic systems are historically understudied due to financial and logistical costs, long‐term monitoring efforts are clearly critical for documenting change, despite the challenges. In freshwater systems, predicting biogeochemistry, and thus ecology, based on landscape characteristics and lake morphology is an ongoing practice that seems particularly promising for both upscaling and decisions on focusing future research effort. In marine and coastal systems, complementing specific local studies with large‐scale cross‐disciplinary monitoring programs is clearly required for elucidating long‐term trends. While baseline research is critical for documenting the Arctic as it currently stands, and constitutes the majority of current research efforts, ongoing support for long‐term observatories and expanding remote sensing capabilities is a fundamental requirement for tracking change.
Copropagating Photonic Fermi Arc Channels for Multiplexing and Dynamically Routing Topological Surface Waves
Authors: Guo Jinying , Yang Biao , Ma Shaojie , Chan Hsun‐Chi , Situ Guohai , Zhang Shuang
Published: February 2021

Recently, 3D photonic Weyl degeneracies have been realized in both magnetized plasma (MP) and chiral hyperbolic metamaterials (CHM). Both systems can achieve backscattering‐immune transportation of light across sharp corners of translation‐invariant prisms and they also show similar equal‐frequency surfaces (EFSs). Despite this resemblance, their topological properties show striking differences as the Weyl points in MP and CHM arise from broken time‐reversal and spatial‐inversion symmetries, respectively. Here, using the effective medium approach, an interface formed between an MP and a CHM is investigated, which supports two Fermi arc surface states with nearly identical propagation directions. This leads to novel 3D interface configurations for guiding non‐reciprocal surface waves, information multiplexing, and magnetically controllable routing of the signal. This work may find applications in unidirectional excitation and controllable transportation in photonics.
Polarization Shaping of Free‐Electron Radiation by Gradient Bianisotropic Metasurfaces
Authors: Jing Liqiao , Lin Xiao , Wang Zuojia , Kaminer Ido , Hu Hao , Li Erping , Liu Yongmin , Chen Min , Zhang Baile , Chen Hongsheng
Published: February 2021

Free‐electron radiation phenomena facilitate enticing potential to create light emission with highly tunable spectra, covering hard‐to‐reach frequencies ranging from microwave to X‐ray. Consequently, they take part in many applications such as on‐chip light sources, particle accelerators, and medical imaging. While their spectral tunability is extremely high, their polarizability is usually much harder to control. Such limitations are especially apparent in all free electron based spontaneous radiation sources, such as the Smith−Purcell (SP) radiation. Here, anomalous free‐electron radiation phenomenon is demonstrated at the microwave regime from gradient bianisotropic metasurfaces, by using a phased dipole array to mimics moving charged particles. The phase gradient and the bianisotropy in metasurfaces provide new degrees of freedom for the polarization shaping of free‐electron radiation, going beyond the common spectral and angular shaping. Remarkably, the observed anomalous free‐electron radiation obeys a generalized SP formula derived from Fermat's principle.
Strongly Coupled Systems for Nonlinear Optics
Authors: Ge Fei , Han Xiao , Xu Jialiang
Published: February 2021

Strong coupling is a distinct light–matter interaction regime, in which the interaction is manifested in coherent oscillations of energy between matter and a photonic subsystem. The consequence of such a strong coupling is the adjustment of the energy states of molecules and materials, which can bring about fascinating chemical and physical properties, and therefore result in advanced applications in many fields such as Bose–Einstein condensation and coherent emission, polariton lasing, superfluidity, quantum information processing, Raman scattering, chemical landscape, etc. Recently, strong coupling has also demonstrated profound impacts on the nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of molecular materials. In this review, the recent research progress in the field of strongly coupled systems for NLO applications is summarized. The underlying concepts and the detailed features of strongly coupled molecular systems are introduced, and the NLO characteristics of strongly coupled systems are reviewed. Finally, an outlook of future directions for this emerging field is given.
Metabolomic Markers of Southern Dietary Patterns in the Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Rebholz Casey M. , Gao Yan , Talegawkar Sameera , Tucker Katherine L. , Colantonio Lisandro D. , Muntner Paul , Ngo Debby , Chen Zsu Zsu , Cruz Daniel , Katz Daniel H. , Tahir Usman A. , Clish Clary , Gerszten Robert E. , Wilson James G.
Published: February 2021

Scope

New biomarkers are needed that are representative of dietary intake.

Methods and Results

We assess metabolites associated with Southern dietary patterns in 1401 Jackson Heart Study participants. Three dietary patterns are empirically derived using principal component analysis: meat and fast food, fish and vegetables, and starchy foods. We randomly select two subsets of the study population: two‐third sample for discovery (n = 934) and one‐third sample for replication (n = 467). Among the 327 metabolites analyzed, 14 are significantly associated with the meat and fast food dietary pattern, four are significantly associated with the fish and vegetables dietary pattern, and none are associated with the starchy foods dietary pattern in the discovery sample. In the replication sample, nine remain associated with the meat and fast food dietary pattern [indole‐3‐propanoic acid, C24:0 lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), N‐methyl proline, proline betaine, C34:2 phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) plasmalogen, C36:5 PE plasmalogen, C38:5 PE plasmalogen, cotinine, hydroxyproline] and three remain associated with the fish and vegetables dietary pattern [1,7‐dimethyluric acid, C22:6 lysophosphatidylethanolamine, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)].

Conclusion

Twelve metabolites are discovered and replicated in association with dietary patterns detected in a Southern U.S. African‐American population, which could be useful as biomarkers of Southern dietary patterns.
Effect of Mastiha supplementation on NAFLD: The MAST4HEALTH Randomised, Controlled Trial
Authors: Amerikanou Charalampia , Kanoni Stavroula , Kaliora Andriana C. , Barone Angela , Bjelan Mladen , D'Auria Giuseppe , Gioxari Aristea , Gosalbes María José , Mouchti Sofia , Stathopoulou Maria G. , Soriano Beatriz , Stojanoski Stefan , Banerjee Rajarshi , Halabalaki Maria , Mikropoulou Eleni V. , Kannt Aimo , Lamont John , Llorens Carlos , Marascio Fernando , Marascio Miriam , Roig Francisco J. , Smyrnioudis Ilias , Varlamis Iraklis , Visvikis‐Siest Sophie , Vukic Milan , Milic Natasa , Medic‐Stojanoska Milica , Cesarini Lucia , Campolo Jonica , Gastaldelli Amalia , Deloukas Panos , Trivella Maria Giovanna , Francino M. Pilar , Dedoussis George V. ,   MAST4HEALTH consortium
Published: February 2021

Scope

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease with poor therapeutic strategies. Mastiha possesses antioxidant/anti‐inflammatory and lipid‐lowering properties. The authors investigate the effectiveness of Mastiha as a nonpharmacological intervention in NAFLD.

Methods and Results

Ninety‐eight patients with NAFLD in three countries (Greece, Italy, Serbia) are randomly allocated to either Mastiha or Placebo for 6 months, as part of a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group clinical trial. The authors assess NAFLD severity via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning and LiverMultiScan technique and evaluate the effectiveness of Mastiha through medical, anthropometric, biochemical, metabolomic, and microbiota assessment. Mastiha is not superior to Placebo on changes in iron‐corrected T1 (cT1) and Liver Inflammation Fibrosis score (LIF) in entire patient population; however, after BMI stratification (BMI ≤ 35 kg m‐2 and BMI > 35 kg m‐2), severely obese patients show an improvement in cT1 and LIF in Mastiha versus Placebo. Mastiha increases dissimilarity of gut microbiota, as shown by the Bray‐Curtis index, downregulates Flavonifractor, a known inflammatory taxon and decreases Lysophosphatidylcholines‐(LysoPC) 18:1, Lysophosphatidylethanolamines‐(LysoPE) 18:1, and cholic acid compared to Placebo.

Conclusion

Mastiha supplementation improves microbiota dysbiosis and lipid metabolite levels in patients with NAFLD, although it reduces parameters of liver inflammation/fibrosis only in severely obese patients.
Ground vulnerability derived from the horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio: Comparison with the damage distribution caused by the 2017 ML 5.4 Pohang earthquake, Korea
Authors: Kang Su Young , Kim Kwang‐Hee , Choi Mikyung , Park Sun‐Cheon
Published: February 2021

The city of Pohang in South Korea experienced substantial damage following the ML 5.4 earthquake on 15 November 2017. Damage surveys immediately after the earthquake revealed significant spatial variations in damage intensity across the epicentral area. We collected ambient noise data (three‐component seismic data) from 124 locations in Pohang, covering a total area of 17 km × 20 km, and applied the horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio technique to estimate the resonance frequency, amplification factor and vulnerability of the ground to seismic shaking. Spatial variations exhibited by these three parameters are strongly correlated and consistent with variations in local geology. By comparing the distribution of the ground vulnerability index (Kg) with the damage distribution (or intensity) documented by the Korea Meteorological Administration following the earthquake, we confirm that the site effect is the prevailing effect that influences damage intensity in this region. We also demonstrate that Kg is an efficient proxy for identifying relatively fragile zones during ground shaking: in areas with a reported damage intensity of VIII, the proportion of the area with Kg > 20 is as high as 78.2%. Given that the study area has experienced a recent moderate earthquake, with significant economic consequences, our new results and analytical techniques will provide valuable information for future urbanization projects.
Synthesis and Biological Activity of Acrylate Copolymers Containing 3‐Oxo‐N‐allyl‐1,2‐benzisothiazole‐3(2H)‐carboxamide Monomer as a Marine Antifouling Coating
Authors: Wang Xuemei , Dong Miao , Meng Zhiping , Chen Junhua , Yang Jianxin , Wang Xianghui
Published: February 2021

A type of grafted acrylate copolymer resins, containing 3‐oxo‐N‐allyl‐1,2‐benzisothiazole‐2(3H)‐carboxamide monomer and heterocyclic monomers, was synthesized through the copolymeri‐ zation of methyl methacrylate (MMA) and butyl acrylate (BA) with functional monomers. The structures of the monomers and copolymers were validated by infrared (IR) and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopies. The inhibitory activities of the copolymers on algae, bacteria, and barnacle larvae were measured, and the antifouling potencies against marine macrofouling organisms were investigated. The results showed that the grafted resin had significant inhibitory effects on the growth of three marine algae (Isochrysis galbana, Nannochloropsisoculata, and Chlorella pyrenoidosa), and three bacteria (Vibrio coralliilyticus, Staphylococcus aureus,and Vibrio parahaemolyticus). The target copolymers also showed excellent inhibition of the survival of barnacle larvae. Additionally, the release rate of the antifoulant and the results of the marine field tests indicated that the grafted copolymers had outstanding antifouling potency against the attachment of marine macrofouling organisms.
High Performance Supercapacitors Based on Mesopore Structured Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Xu Yang , Shi Weili , Li Ruguang , Qiao Zheng , Fang Jian , Yang Quanling , Xiong Chuanxi
Published: February 2021

A 3D CNT/few layered graphene construct (CNT−FLG) with mesopore structure was fabricated and applied in supercapacitors. The structure was acquired through a two‐step method. Firstly, commercial multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MCNTs) were oxidized in a mixed solution of concentrated acid and modified with a couple of long‐chain organic ions. Second, the above resultant product was carbonized at a high temperature. The achieved structure offers a 3D interconnected electrically conductive network as well as mesopore structure. It also significantly improves the specific surface area of MCNTs. Result of BET tests showed that the specific surface area of CNT−FLG reached to 2235 m2/g. When acted as electrode materials in a supercapacitor structure, specific capacitance was approximately 531.2 F/g at a current density of 0.8 A/g. At current density of 50 A/g, specific capacitance remained 204.4 F/g. Besides, the capacitance retention was as high as 96.18 % after 10000 cycles at the current density of 5 A/g.
Aggregation Behavior of Poly(Acrylic acid‐co‐Octadecyl Methacrylate) and Bovine Serum Albumin in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Zhou Mengmeng , Bi Yutong , Zhou Haijun , Chen Xiaoqi , Zhang Fen , Li Yantao , Qu Xiongwei
Published: February 2021

Polymer‐protein complexing systems have been extensively studied because of their wide application in biomedicine and industry. Here, we studied the aggregation behavior of the hydrophobically associating water‐soluble polymer poly(acrylic acid‐co‐octadecyl methacrylate) [P(AA‐co‐OMA)] prepared with nonionic surfactant as an emulsifier and bovine serum albumin (BSA) in aqueous solution. We identified the optimal composite conditions of P(AA‐co‐OMA) and BSA aqueous solution. We measured the zeta potential, dynamic light‐scattering particle size, and surface tension of P(AA‐co‐OMA) and BSA mixed aqueous solution. The results showed that the aggregation behavior between the polymer and BSA relied mainly on the hydrophobic interactions between the molecules. In addition, the best compounding condition was 8 wt.% of P(AA‐co‐OMA) content. The structure of hydrophobically associating polymer P(AA‐co‐OMA) and its aggregation with BSA were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The infrared spectroscopy results identified the hydrogen bonding behavior of the amino and carboxyl groups between the polymer and BSA. This behavior was also confirmed using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. The thermal decomposition temperature and melting temperature of BSA changed before and after it was combined with the polymer. We measured the morphology of the polymer BSA aggregate with 8 % polymer content by transmission electron microscopy. The binding mechanism was investigated, as well.
Prevalence of adiposity‐based chronic disease in middle‐aged adults from Czech Republic: The Kardiovize study
Authors: Gonzalez‐Rivas Juan P. , Mechanick Jeffrey I. , Hernandez José Pantaleón , Infante‐Garcia María M , Pavlovska Iuliia , Medina‐Inojosa José R. , Kunzova Sarka , Nieto‐Martinez Ramfis , Brož Jan , Busetto Luca , Maranhao Neto Geraldo A , Lopez‐Jimenez Francisco , Urbanová Jana , Stokin Gorazd B
Published: February 2021

Aims/Hypothesis

The need for understanding obesity as a chronic disease, its stigmatization, and the lack of actionability related to it demands a new approach. The adiposity‐based chronic disease (ABCD) model is based on adiposity amount, distribution, and function, with a three stage complication‐centric rather than a body mass index (BMI)‐centric approach. The prevalence rates and associated risk factors are presented.

Methods

In total, 2159 participants were randomly selected from Czechia. ABCD was established as BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 or high body fat percent, or abdominal obesity and then categorized by their adiposity‐based complications: Stage 0: none; Stage 1: mild/moderate; Stage 2: severe.

Results

ABCD prevalence was 62.8%. Stage 0 was 2.3%; Stage 1 was 31.4%; Stage 2 was 29.1%. Comparing with other classifiers, participants in Stage 2 were more likely to have diabetes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome than those with overweight, obesity, abdominal obesity, and increased fat mass. ABCD showed the highest sensitivity and specificity to detect participants with peripheral artery disease, increased intima media, and vascular disease.

Conclusion/Interpretation

The ABCD model provides a more sensitive approach that facilitates the early detection and stratification of participants at risk compared to traditional classifiers.
Radiation attenuation properties of some commercial polymers for advanced shielding applications at low energies
Authors: Al‐Buriahi Mohammed Sultan , Eke Canel , Alomairy Sultan , Yildirim Aydin , Alsaeedy H. I. , Sriwunkum Chahkrit
Published: February 2021

As radiation is an essential tool in various technological applications, searching for a suitable shield is an urgent demand to minimize its damaging effects on human beings. In this research article, we report on the radiation shielding properties of some commercially available polymers namely poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide), polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, and polycarbonate (denoted by P1, P2, P3, and P4, respectively). The gamma ray attenuation parameters are calculated using the Geant4 simulation, PHITS code, and XCOM program. Half value layer (HVL), linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), gamma dose rate at different energy levels, mean free path (MFP), specific gamma ray constant, effective atomic number (Zeff) and effective electron density (Neff), removal cross section for fast neutron, and total cross section for thermal neutron are investigated at energies of 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.1 MeV. The results indicate that the highest LAC values were observed for P2 polymer at 0.1 MeV, while the lowest LAC values were noted for P3 polymer at 0.01 MeV among the studied commercial polymers. The total cross sections of thermal neutrons for the investigated polymers change from 24.0717 to 31.8611 cm−1. Moreover, the MFPs and HVLs of the investigated polymers were very close to those of ordinary concrete and RS‐253‐G18 commercial glass, especially at the low energies. This suggests the utility of using the present polymer samples for shielding applications against gamma and/or neutron radiations.
The Global COVID‐19 Observatory and Resource Center for Childhood Cancer: A response for the pediatric oncology community by SIOP and St. Jude Global
Authors: Moreira Daniel C. , Sniderman Elizabeth , Mukkada Sheena , Chantada Guillermo , Bhakta Nickhill , Foster Whitney , Avula Meghana , Homsi Maysam R. , Faughnan Lane , Happ Brooke , Andujar Allyson , Sonnenfelt Jason , Dalvi Rashmi , Frazier A. Lindsay , Hessissen Laila , Kearns Pamela R. , Luna‐Fineman Sandra , Moreno Arturo , Saghir Khan Muhammad , Sullivan Michael , Devidas Meenakshi , Santana Victor , Caniza Miguela , Pritchard‐Jones Kathy , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos
Published: February 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic quickly led to an abundance of publications and recommendations, despite a paucity of information on how COVID‐19 affects children with cancer. This created a dire need for a trusted resource with curated information and a space for the pediatric oncology community to share experiences. The Global COVID‐19 Observatory and Resource Center for Childhood Cancer was developed, launched, and maintained by the International Society of Pediatric Oncology and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The three components (Resource Library, Global Registry, and Collaboration Space) complement each other, establishing a mechanism to generate and transfer knowledge rapidly throughout the community.