bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome 2q gain and epigenetic silencing of GATA3 in microglandular adenosis of the breast
Authors: Radner Martin , van Luttikhuizen Jana Lisa , Bartels Stephan , Bublitz Janin , Grote Isabel , Rieger Luisa , Christgen Henriette , Stark Helge , Werlein Christopher , Lafos Marcel , Steinemann Doris , Lehmann Ulrich , Christgen Matthias , Kreipe Hans
Published: December 2020

Microglandular adenosis (MGA) represents a rare neoplasm of the mammary gland, which in a subset of cases may be associated with triple‐negative breast cancer (BC). The biology of MGA is poorly understood. In this study, eight MGA cases (n = 4 with and n = 4 without associated BC) were subjected to a comprehensive characterization using immunohistochemistry, genome‐wide DNA copy number (CN) profiling, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), next‐generation sequencing (NGS), and DNA methylation profiling using 850 K arrays and bisulfite pyrosequencing. Median patient age was 61 years (range 57–76 years). MGA lesions were estrogen receptor (ER)‐negative, progesterone receptor‐negative, HER2‐negative, and S100‐positive. DNA CN alterations (CNAs) were complex or limited to few gains and losses. CN gain on chromosome 2q was the most common CNA and was validated by FISH in five of eight cases. NGS demonstrated an average of two mutations per case (range 0–5) affecting 10 different genes (ARID1A, ATM, CTNNB1, FBXW7, FGFR2, MET, PIK3CA, PMS2, PTEN, and TP53). CNAs and mutations were similar in MGA and adjacent BC, indicating clonal relatedness. DNA methylation profiling identified aberrant hypermethylation of CpG sites within GATA3, a key transcription factor required for luminal differentiation. Immunohistochemistry showed regular GATA3 protein expression in the normal mammary epithelium and in ER‐positive BC. Conversely, GATA3 was reduced or lost in all MGA cases tested (8/8). In conclusion, MGA is characterized by common CN gain on chromosome 2q and loss of GATA3. Epigenetic inactivation of GATA3 may provide a new clue to the peculiar biology of this rare neoplasia.
Prognostic value of aerobic capacity and exercise oxygen pulse in postaortic dissection patients
Authors: Delsart Pascal , Delahaye Camille , Devos Patrick , Domanski Olivia , Azzaoui Richard , Sobocinski Jonathan , Juthier Francis , Vincentelli Andre , Rousse Natacha , Mugnier Agnes , Soquet Jerome , Loobuyck Valentin , Koussa Mohamed , Modine Thomas , Jegou Bruno , Bical Antoine , Hysi Ilir , Fabre Olivier , Pontana François , Matran Regis , Mounier‐Vehier Claire , Montaigne David
Published: December 2020

Background

Although recommendations encourage daily moderate activities in post aortic dissection, very little data exists regarding cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to personalize those patient's physical rehabilitation and assess their cardiovascular prognosis.

Design

We aimed at testing the prognostic insight of CPET regarding aortic and cardiovascular events by exploring a prospective cohort of patients followed‐up after acute aortic dissection.

Methods

Patients referred to our department after an acute (type A or B) aortic dissection were prospectively included in a cohort between September 2012 and October 2017. CPET was performed once optimal blood pressure control was obtained. Clinical follow‐up was done after CPET for new aortic event and major cardio‐vascular events (MCE) not directly related to the aorta.

Results

Among the 165 patients who underwent CPET, no adverse event was observed during exercise testing. Peak oxygen pulse was 1.46(1.22‐1.84) mlO2/beat, that is, 97 (83–113) % of its predicted value, suggesting cardiac exercise limitation in a population under beta blockers (92% of the population). During a follow‐up of 39(20‐51) months from CPET, 42 aortic event recurrences and 22 MCE not related to aorta occurred. Low peak oxygen pulse (<85% of predicted value) was independently predictive of aortic event recurrence, while low peak oxygen uptake (<70% of predicted value) was an independent predictor of MCE occurrence.

Conclusion

CPET is safe in postaortic dissection patients should be used to not only to personalize exercise rehabilitation, but also to identify those patients with the highest risk for new aortic events and MCE not directly related to aorta.
Switch‐1 instability at the active site decouples ATP hydrolysis from force generation in myosin II
Authors: Walker Benjamin C. , Walczak Claire E. , Cochran Jared C.
Published: December 2020

Myosin active site elements (i.e., switch‐1) bind both ATP and a divalent metal to coordinate ATP hydrolysis. ATP hydrolysis at the active site is linked via allosteric communication to the actin polymer binding site and lever arm movement, thus coupling the free energy of ATP hydrolysis to force generation. How active site motifs are functionally linked to actin binding and the power stroke is still poorly understood. We hypothesize that destabilizing switch‐1 movement at the active site will negatively affect the tight coupling of the ATPase catalytic cycle to force production. Using a metal‐switch system, we tested the effect of interfering with switch‐1 coordination of the divalent metal cofactor on force generation. We found that while ATPase activity increased, motility was inhibited. Our results demonstrate that a single atom change that affects the switch‐1 interaction with the divalent metal directly affects actin binding and productive force generation. Even slight modification of the switch‐1 divalent metal coordination can decouple ATP hydrolysis from motility. Switch‐1 movement is therefore critical for both structural communication with the actin binding site, as well as coupling the energy of ATP hydrolysis to force generation.
Exploring Viral Interference Using Peptides: Molecular Determinants of HIV‐1 Inhibition by a Peptide Derived from Human Pegivirus‐1 Envelope Protein E2
Authors: Hoffmann Rebecca , Ruegamer Tamara , Schaubächer Johanna , Rohrhofer Anette , Kirmeß Peter , Fiebig Karen M. , Schmidt Barbara , Eichler Jutta
Published: December 2020

Co‐infection with the human pegivirus 1 (HPgV‐1) often has a beneficial effect on disease progression in HIV‐1‐infected individuals. Several HPgV‐1 proteins and peptides, including a 20‐mer peptide (P6‐2) derived from the N‐terminal region of the HPgV‐1 surface protein E2, have been associated with this phenomenon, which is referred to as viral interference. We identified the cysteine residues, the hydrophobic core tetrapeptide, as well as the C‐terminal negative charge as key factors for the HIV‐1 inhibitory activity of P6‐2. Analysis of mutations in P6‐2‐resistant HIV‐1 indicated a binding site for the peptide in the HIV‐1 envelope glycoprotein gp120. In fact, P6‐2 was shown to bind to soluble gp120, as well as to a peptide presenting the gp120 V3 loop. Furthermore, the HIV‐1 inhibitory activity of P6‐2 could be revoked by the V3 loop peptide, thus indicating a molecular mechanism that involves interaction of P6‐2 with the gp120 V3 loop.
Electrical Double‐Layer Capacitors Based on a Ternary Ionic Liquid Electrolyte Operating at Low Temperature with Realistic Gravimetric and Volumetric Energy Outputs
Authors: Yambou Emmanuel Pameté , Gorska Barbara , Béguin François
Published: December 2020

We report on electrical double‐layer capacitors (EDLCs) performing effectively at low temperature (down to −40 °C), owing to the tuned characteristics of both the ionic liquid (IL) electrolyte and carbonaceous electrodes. The transport properties of the electrolyte have been enhanced by adding a low‐viscosity IL with the tetracyanoborate anion, [EMIm][TCB], to a mixture of [EMIm][FSI] with [EMIm][BF4], which was already successfully applied for this application. The formulated ternary electrolyte, [EMIm][FSI]0.6[BF4]0.1[TCB]0.3, remained in the liquid state until it reached the glass transition at −99 °C and displayed a relatively low viscosity and high conductivity (η=23.6 mP s and σ=14.2 mS cm−1 at 20 °C, respectively). The electrodes were made of a hierarchical SiO2‐templated carbon with well‐defined and uniform mesopores of ∼9 nm facilitating ion transport to the interconnected micropores accounted for the charge storage, whereas the high density of the electrodes promoted high volumetric energy outputs of the cells.
CD73 alleviates GSDMD‐mediated microglia pyroptosis in spinal cord injury through PI3K/AKT/Foxo1 signaling
Authors: Xu Shun , Wang Jin , Zhong Junjie , Shao Minghao , Jiang Jianyuan , Song Jian , Zhu Wei , Zhang Fan , Xu Haocheng , Xu Guangyu , Zhang Yuxuan , Ma Xiaosheng , Lyu Feizhou
Published: December 2020

Background

Neuroinflammation‐induced secondary injury is an important cause of sustained progression of spinal cord injury. Inflammatory programmed cell death pyroptosis executed by the pore‐forming protein gasdermin D (GSDMD) is an essential step of neuroinflammation. However, it is unclear whether CD73, a widely accepted immunosuppressive molecule, can inhibit pyroptosis via mediating GSDMD.

Methods

C57BL/6J CD73 deficient mice and wild‐type mice, Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced primary microglia and BV2 cells were respectively used to illustrate the effect of CD73 on microglia pyroptosis in vivo and in vitro. A combination of molecular and histological methods was performed to assess pyroptosis and explore the mechanism both in vivo and in vitro.

Results

We have shown molecular evidence for CD73 suppresses the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome complexes to reduce the maturation of GSDMD, leading to decreased pyroptosis in microglia. Further analysis reveals that adenosine‐A2B adenosine receptor‐PI3K‐AKT‐Foxo1 cascade is a possible mechanism of CD73 regulation. Importantly, we determine that CD73 inhibits the expression of GSDMD at the transcriptional level through Foxo1. What's more, we confirm the accumulation of HIF‐1α promotes the overexpression of CD73 after spinal cord injury (SCI), and the increased CD73 in turn upregulates the expression of HIF‐1α, eventually forming a positive feedback regulatory loop.

Conclusion

Our data reveal a novel function of CD73 on microglia pyroptosis, suggesting a unique therapeutic opportunity for mitigating the disease process in SCI.
Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and trauma‐informed care in higher levels of care for eating disorders
Authors: Rienecke Renee D. , Blalock Dan V. , Duffy Alan , Manwaring Jamie , Le Grange Daniel , Johnson Craig , Mehler Philip S. , McClanahan Susan F.
Published: December 2020

Objective

The purpose of the current study was to examine the prevalence and trajectory of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms among patients with eating disorders (EDs) in higher level of ED care with trauma‐informed components, but without a formal evidence‐based trauma intervention.

Method

Participants were 613 adults diagnosed with EDs receiving treatment at inpatient, residential, or partial hospitalization levels of care. Participants completed the PTSD Checklist‐5 (PCL‐5) at admission and discharge.

Results

Over half of patients scored above the cutoff of 33 on the PCL‐5 at admission, suggestive of PTSD symptoms characteristic of a formal PTSD diagnosis. The average PCL‐5 score significantly decreased for every ED diagnostic category, and there was a significant reduction in the proportion of patients above the PCL‐5 cutoff score at discharge. PCL‐5 subscales measuring PTSD criteria B (intrusions) and C (avoidance) improved with modest effect sizes, whereas PCL‐5 subscales D (negative alterations in cognitions and mood) and E (alterations in arousal and reactivity) improved with larger effect sizes.

Discussion

PTSD symptoms are prevalent among patients with EDs seeking higher levels of care. Despite not offering evidence‐based trauma‐specific interventions, PTSD symptoms decreased over the course of treatment. However, improvements cannot definitely be attributed to trauma‐informed care.
The clash of culture and cuisine: A qualitative exploration of cultural tensions and attitudes toward food and body in Chinese young adult women
Authors: Ng Stephanie , Liu Yining , Gaither Sarah , Marsan Samuel , Zucker Nancy
Published: December 2020

Objective

Accumulating evidence suggests that the prevalence of eating disorders among Chinese women is a public health concern. Prior studies have drawn linkages between conflicting cultural values, identity confusion, and eating disorder symptomatology, which may be relevant for understanding the rise of eating disorders amidst China's rapid economic and sociocultural transformation. Here, we explore how women's experiences with traditional eating norms and modernizing norms of femininity may shape their food and body attitudes.

Method

Chinese young adult women (N = 34; aged 18–22 years) participated in semi‐structured interviews focusing on experiences with norms surrounding eating and ideal feminine appearance, perceived conflict between these norms, and their responses to perceived conflict. Interviews were conducted via email (n = 27) or via Skype (n = 7). Participants were not asked about past or present diagnoses of eating disorders. Analysis of responses was guided by the principles of thematic analysis.

Results

Women reported encounters with cultural eating norms and feminine appearance norms, and described factors that motivated continued or discontinued adherence to these norms. Women reported strategies of conflict resolution, which resulted in different emotional and behavioral outcomes including eating disorder symptoms.

Discussion

Women's experiences with norms surrounding eating and appearance indicate the centrality of these encounters in the formation of individual and interpersonal values. Our findings suggest the importance for clinicians to assist clients in exploring the meanings behind internalized attitudes toward food and body, and to help clients balance interpersonal and individual needs.
Investigating life‐history traits of Steller sea lions with multistate hidden Markov mark–recapture models: Age at weaning and body size effects
Authors: Hastings Kelly K. , Johnson Devin S. , Pendleton Grey W. , Fadely Brian S. , Gelatt Thomas S.
Published: December 2020

The duration of offspring care is critical to female fitness and population resilience by allowing flexibility in life‐history strategies in a variable environment. Yet, for many mammals capable of extended periods of maternal care, estimates of the duration of offspring dependency are not available and the relative importance of flexibility of this trait on fitness and population viability has rarely been examined. We used data from 4,447 Steller sea lions Eumetopias jubatus from the Gulf of Alaska and multistate hidden Markov mark–recapture models to estimate age‐specific weaning probabilities. Maternal care beyond age 1 was common: Weaning was later for animals from Southeast Alaska (SEAK) and Prince William Sound (PWS, weaning probabilities: 0.536–0.648/0.784–0.873 by age 1/2) compared with animals born to the west (0.714–0.855/0.798–0.938). SEAK/PWS animals were also smaller than those born farther west, suggesting a possible link. Females weaned slightly earlier (+0.080 at age 1 and 2) compared with males in SEAK only. Poor survival for weaned versus unweaned yearlings occurred in southern SEAK (female survival probabilities: 0.609 vs. 0.792) and the central Gulf (0.667 vs. 0.901), suggesting poor conditions for juveniles in these areas. First‐year survival increased with neonatal body mass (NBM) linearly in the Gulf and nonlinearly in SEAK. The probability of weaning at age 1 increased linearly with NBM for SEAK animals only. Rookeries where juveniles weaned at earlier ages had lower adult female survival, but age at weaning was unrelated to population trends. Our results suggest the time to weaning may be optimized for different habitats based on long‐term average conditions (e.g., prey dynamics), that may also shape body size, with limited short‐term plasticity. An apparent trade‐off of adult survival in favor of juvenile survival and large offspring size in the endangered Gulf of Alaska population requires further study.
Decreasing brain iron in multiple sclerosis: The difference between concentration and content in iron MRI
Authors: Schweser Ferdinand , Hagemeier Jesper , Dwyer Michael G , Bergsland Niels , Hametner Simon , Weinstock‐Guttman Bianca , Zivadinov Robert
Published: December 2020

Increased brain iron concentration is often reported concurrently with disease development in multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurodegenerative diseases. However, it is unclear whether the higher iron concentration in patients stems from an influx of iron into the tissue or a relative reduction in tissue compartments without much iron. By taking into account structural volume, we investigated tissue iron content in the deep gray matter (DGM) over 2 years, and compared findings to previously reported changes in iron concentration. 120 MS patients and 40 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls were included. Clinical testing and MRI were performed both at baseline and after 2 years. Overall, iron content was calculated from structural MRI and quantitative susceptibility mapping in the thalamus, caudate, putamen, and globus pallidus. MS patients had significantly lower iron content than controls in the thalamus, with progressive MS patients demonstrating lower iron content than relapsing–remitting patients. Over 2 years, iron content decreased in the DGM of patients with MS, while it tended to increase or remain stable among controls. In the thalamus, decreasing iron content over 2 years was associated with disability progression. Our study showed that temporally increasing magnetic susceptibility in MS should not be considered as evidence for iron influx because it may be explained, at least partially, by disease‐related atrophy. Declining DGM iron content suggests that, contrary to the current understanding, iron is being removed from the DGM in patients with MS.
Sustaining environmental flows in water‐deficient rivers via inter‐basin hydropower transfer
Authors: Gao Ting , Liu Hongrui , Sun Yuanyuan , Zhang Enze
Published: December 2020

In water‐deficient rivers, environmental flows (e‐flows) are usually sustained via inter‐basin water transfer projects from water‐sufficient rivers, but these projects incur tremendous costs and may lead to many negative ecological effects, such as ecological invasion. This research proposed to transfer hydropower instead of water from water‐sufficient rivers, because hydropower could substitute for water to promote economic development and reduce water withdrawal from water‐deficient rivers (conserved water). In addition, based on the analysis of eco‐hydrological processes, the flow regime alteration plays an important role in restoring riverine ecosystem. With the goal of minimum flow regime alternation, we set up two scenarios to distribute the annual conserved water, and determined the optimal amount of transferred hydropower and the optimal use of conserved water, which could effectively sustain the e‐flows. Accordingly, this paper established a computable general equilibrium model to analyse the substitution of hydropower for water in a water‐deficient river basin, and determined the water withdrawal volume that could be reduced. We adopted a range‐of‐variability approach to measure the degree of flow regime alteration, and optimized the flow regime management scheme. The Luanhe River Basin was adopted as a study case. The results showed that: the water‐hydropower equivalent decreased as the transferred hydropower into the Luanhe River Basin increased; a transferred hydropower amount of 22.46 kWh/s, equivalent to 18.30 m3/s conserved water, was optimal for the river basin; the conserved water should be distributed to the Luanhe River in the proportions of 0.55:0.1:0.35 during the wet, normal and dry seasons, respectively, which is the optimal scheme to sustain the hydrological processes of the river.
Reference intervals for routine biochemical markers and body mass index: A study based on healthcare center database in northeastern Iran
Authors: Ghazizadeh Hamideh , Yaghooti‐Khorasani Mahdiyeh , Khodabandeh Atieh Kamel , Hasanzadeh Elahe , Sahranavard Toktam , Banihashem‐Rad Seyed Hamed , Zare‐Feyzabadi Reza , Ekhteraee‐Toosi Mansoureh Sadat , Akbarpour Ensieh , Timar Ameneh , Mohammadi‐Bajgiran Maryam , Assaran‐Darban Reza , Farkhany Ehsan Mosa , Oladi Mohammad Reza , Ferns Gordon A. , Esmaily Habibollah , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid
Published: December 2020

Age‐ and sex‐specific reference intervals (RIs) for some biochemical tests may be useful for their interpretation, due to the variations in lifestyle and genetic, or ethnic factors. The aim of this study was to obtain RIs for some routine biochemical markers including a serum lipid profile, fasting blood glucose (FBG), aspartate and alanine aminotransferase (AST and ALT), uric acid, and body mass index (BMI) in subjects who attended primary healthcare centers. The large database of primary healthcare centers uses RIs to report results for children, adolescents, and young and old adults. RIs were obtained by using the indirect method, recommended by the CLSI Ep28‐A3 guidelines. RIs for FBG, BMI, and serum lipid profile, including triglyceride, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol in people aged 18 to 120 years, were obtained without age/sex segmentation. RIs for serum AST, ALT, and uric acid were obtained without age segmentation, though these RIs were higher in males than females. The RIs for AST, ALT, and uric acid were higher in men, while the RIs for the other variables were similar in both sexes. This is the first study reporting the use of indirect RIs for BMI.
DNA testing information on YouTube: Inadequate advice can mislead and harm the public
Authors: Basch Corey H. , Hillyer Grace C. , Wahrman Miryam Z. , Garcia Philip , Basch Charles E.
Published: December 2020

Direct‐to‐consumer (DTC) DNA (i.e., genetic) testing has become very popular, with close to 30 million Americans having used these services. The 100 most widely viewed DNA YouTube testing videos were analyzed to determine whether they are providing adequate information for consumers. The top 100 videos had more than 300 million cumulative views, showing the popularity and reach of the information source. While many videos addressed the specimen collection process, family roots and ancestry, and the prospect of uncovering unexpected information about family or health leading to possible distress, almost none of the videos addressed accuracy or confidentiality issues, which are major issues of DNA testing. It is recommended that further information on those issues be made readily available, and more vigilant oversight by regulatory agencies be implemented. Such oversight should include monitoring what information is and is not readily provided by each company, and the veracity of information being communicated to existing and prospective consumers. We also recommend that for medical issues, clinical genetic testing, along with genetic counseling by genetic counselors, be the method of choice.
Retrospective Distortion and Motion Correction for Free‐Breathing DW‐MRI of the Kidneys Using Dual‐Echo EPI and Slice‐to‐Volume Registration
Authors: Coll‐Font Jaume , Afacan Onur , Hoge Scott , Garg Harsha , Shashi Kumar , Marami Bahram , Gholipour Ali , Chow Jeanne , Warfield Simon , Kurugol Sila
Published: December 2020

Background

Diffusion‐weighted MRI (DW‐MRI) of the kidneys is a technique that provides information about the microstructure of renal tissue without requiring exogenous contrasts such as gadolinium, and it can be used for diagnosis in cases of renal disease and assessing response‐to‐therapy. However, physiological motion and large geometric distortions due to main B0 field inhomogeneities degrade the image quality, reduce the accuracy of quantitative imaging markers, and impede their subsequent clinical applicability.

Purpose

To retrospectively correct for geometric distortion for free‐breathing DW‐MRI of the kidneys at 3T, in the presence of a nonstatic distortion field due to breathing and bulk motion.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Ten healthy volunteers (ages 29–38, four females).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T; DW‐MR dual‐echo echo‐planar imaging (EPI) sequence (10 b‐values and 17 directions) and a T2 volume.

Assessment

The distortion correction was evaluated subjectively (Likert scale 0–5) and numerically with cross‐correlation between the DW images at b = 0 s/mm2 and a T2 volume. The intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) and diffusion tensor (DTI) model‐fitting performance was evaluated using the root‐mean‐squared error (nRMSE) and the coefficient of variation (CV%) of their parameters.

Statistical Tests

Statistical comparisons were done using Wilcoxon tests.

Results

The proposed method improved the Likert scores by 1.1 ± 0.8 (P < 0.05), the cross‐correlation with the T2 reference image by 0.13 ± 0.05 (P < 0.05), and reduced the nRMSE by 0.13 ± 0.03 (P < 0.05) and 0.23 ± 0.06 (P < 0.05) for IVIM and DTI, respectively. The CV% of the IVIM parameters (slow and fast diffusion, and diffusion fraction for IVIM and mean diffusivity, and fractional anisotropy for DTI) was reduced by 2.26 ± 3.98% (P = 6.971 × 10−2), 11.24 ± 26.26% (P = 6.971 × 10−2), 4.12 ± 12.91% (P = 0.101), 3.22 ± 0.55% (P < 0.05), and 2.42 ± 1.15% (P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

The results indicate that the proposed Di + MoCo method can effectively correct for time‐varying geometric distortions and for misalignments due to breathing motion. Consequently, the image quality and precision of the DW‐MRI model parameters improved.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
Association between intracranial carotid artery calcifications and periodontitis: A cone‐beam computed tomography study
Authors: AlSakr Abdulaziz , Blanchard Steven , Wong Phillip , Thyvalikakath Thankam , Hamada Yusuke
Published: December 2020

Background

Intracranial carotid artery calcifications (ICACs) are one type of calcification that may be detected as incidental findings in cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT). This retrospective study aimed to examine the prevalence of ICACs on CBCT images and their associations among age, gender, chronic periodontitis, and patient‐reported cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Methods

A total of 303 CBCT scans were reviewed and a total of 208 patients met the inclusion criteria. The presence or absence of ICACs was evaluated in the ophthalmic and cavernous segments of each scan. Patient demographic data, including age, gender, and medical history, specifically focused on CVDs were recorded. The presence or absence of periodontitis was recorded from each subject with full mouth radiographs and clinical measurements. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated as part of the logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, ICACs were found in 93 subjects (45%). The bilateral ICACs were found in 43 subjects (21% of the total subjects, 46% of the subjects with ICACs). There were statistically significant associations between presence of ICACs and periodontitis (OR = 4.55), hypertension (OR = 3.02), hyperlipidemia (OR = 2.87), increasing age (OR = 2.24), and the male gender (OR = 1.85). Smoking status was not significantly correlated with ICACs.

Conclusion

This study revealed that nearly half (45%) of the subjects displayed ICACs on the CBCT images. ICACs are significantly related to the status of chronic periodontitis, age, gender, and CVDs. A more careful review of CBCT scans is highly recommended to detect these calcifications and refer patients for further medical evaluation.
Oxidation process and kinetics of bromothymol blue by alkaline permanganate
Authors: Al‐Hossainy Ahmed F. , Ibrahim Samia M.
Published: December 2020

Spectrophotometric analysis was applied to check the kinetics of bromothymol blue (BTB) oxidation by alkaline permanganate at constant ionic strength 0.2 mol dm−3. The redox reaction was observed to proceed through two independently distinct, detectable steps. The first step coexists with the formation of intermediate complexes involving transient species relatively quickly of the blue hypomanganate(V) and green manganate(VI). The slowly decomposed intermediate formed to produce soluble colloidal manganese(IV) and the BTB keto‐derivatives as second slow‐stage oxidation products. The oxidation reaction demonstrated first‐order dependence in [MnO4−] and fractional first‐order kinetics at each of the BTB and alkali concentrations at an initial rapid stage for complexes formation. It was found that the oxidation process is of a base‐catalyzed nature. Novel spectrophotometric measurement of the blue hypomanganate(V) was introduced using a traditional spectrophotometer. An effective oxidation mechanism compatible with the kinetic data obtained in terms of the activation parameters assessed was analyzed, proposed, and discussed in line with the kinetic findings.
Exome Sequencing for Isolated Congenital Hearing Loss: A Cost‐Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Downie Lilian , Amor David J. , Halliday Jane , Lewis Sharon , Martyn Melissa , Goranitis Ilias
Published: December 2020

Objectives/Hypothesis

To assess the relative cost‐effectiveness of exome sequencing for isolated congenital deafness compared with standard care.

Study Design

Incremental cost‐effectiveness and cost‐benefit analyses were undertaken from the perspective of the Australian healthcare system using an 18‐year time horizon.

Methods

A decision tree was used to model the costs and outcomes associated with exome sequencing and standard care for infants presenting with isolated congenital deafness.

Results

Exome sequencing resulted in an incremental cost of AU$1,000 per child and an additional 30 diagnoses per 100 children tested. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was AU$3,333 per additional diagnosis. The mean societal willingness to pay for exome sequencing was estimated at AU$4,600 per child tested relative to standard care, resulting in a positive net benefit of AU$3,600. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses confirmed the cost‐effectiveness of exome sequencing.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate the cost‐effectiveness of exome sequencing in congenital hearing loss, through increased diagnostic rate and consequent improved process of care by reducing or ceasing diagnostic investigation or facilitating targeted further investigation. We recommend equitable funding for exome sequencing in infants presenting with isolated congenital hearing loss.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 131:E2371–E2377, 2021
Borage Oil Enhances Lamellar Body Content and Alters Fatty Acid Composition of Epidermal Ceramides in Essential Fatty Acid‐Deficient Guinea Pigs
Authors: Kim Kun‐Pyo , Shin Kyong‐Oh , Park Kyungho , Cho Yunhi
Published: December 2020

Borage oil [BO: 40.9% linoleic acid (LNA) and 24.0% γ‐linolenic acid (GLA)] reverses disrupted epidermal lipid barrier in essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD). We determined the effects of BO on lamellar body (LB) content and LNA and GLA incorporation into epidermal ceramide 1 (CER1) and epidermal ceramide 2 (CER2), major barrier lipids. EFAD was induced in guinea pigs by a diet of 6% hydrogenated coconut oil (HCO) for 10 weeks (group HCO) or 8 weeks followed by 6% BO for 2 weeks (group HCO + BO). LB content and LNA and GLA incorporation into CER1 were higher in group HCO + BO than in group HCO. Small but significant levels of LNA, GLA, and their C20‐metabolized fatty acids [dihomo‐γ‐linolenic acid (DGLA) and arachidonic acid (ARA)] were incorporated into CER2, where ARA was detected at a level lower than LNA, but DGLA incorporation exceeded that for GLA in group HCO + BO. Dietary BO enhanced LB content and differential incorporation of GLA into CER1 and DGLA into CER2.
Arctic concentration–discharge relationships for dissolved organic carbon and nitrate vary with landscape and season
Authors: Shogren Arial J. , Zarnetske Jay P. , Abbott Benjamin W. , Iannucci Frances , Medvedeff Alexander , Cairns Sam , Duda Megan J. , Bowden William B.
Published: December 2020

Climate change is intensifying the Arctic hydrologic cycle, potentially accelerating the release of carbon and nutrients from permafrost landscapes to rivers. However, there are limited riverine flow and solute data of adequate frequency and duration to test how seasonality and catchment landscape characteristics influence production and transport of carbon and nutrients in Arctic river networks. We measured high frequency hydrochemical dynamics at the outlets of three headwater catchments in Arctic Alaska over 3 years. The catchments represent common Arctic landscapes: low‐gradient tundra, low‐gradient and lake‐influenced tundra, and high‐gradient alpine tundra. Using in‐situ spectrophotometers, we measured dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrate (NO3−) concentrations at 15‐min intervals through the flow seasons of 2017, 2018, and 2019. These high‐frequency data allowed us to quantify concentration–discharge (C‐Q) responses during individual storm events across the flow season. Differences in C‐Q responses among catchments indicated strong landscape and seasonal controls on lateral DOC and NO3− flux. For the two low‐gradient tundra catchments, we observed consistent DOC enrichment (transport‐limitation) and NO3− dilution (source‐limitation) during flow events. Conversely, we found consistent NO3− enrichment and DOC dilution in the high‐gradient alpine catchment. Our analysis revealed how high flow events may contribute disproportionately to downstream export in these Arctic streams. Because the duration of the flow season is expected to lengthen and the intensity of Arctic storms are expected to increase, understanding how discharge and solute concentration are coupled is crucial to understanding carbon and nutrient dynamics in rapidly changing permafrost ecosystems.
From Amazon.com to Amazon.love: How Alexa is redefining companionship and interdependence for people with special needs
Authors: Ramadan Zahy , F. Farah Maya , El Essrawi Lea
Published: December 2020

The trend of incorporating assistive conversational agents into people's lives has followed the unprecedented expansion in the usage of artificial intelligence (AI). Amazon, in particular, has been a key trendsetter in this area through its Alexa‐powered devices. Alexa is an intelligent personal assistant (IPA) that performs tasks, such as playing music, providing news and information, and controlling smart home appliances. While this IPA is widely utilized, it is especially gaining attention and growing usage by people with special needs. Even though the importance of the utilization of AI by people with special needs has been widely acknowledged in the extant literature, a sizeable gap exists in the marketing literature in relation to the assessment of the managerial and societal implications of IPAs when used by people with special needs. Accordingly, this study aims to examine (a) the stages of relationship development between Alexa and consumers with special needs, and (b) the potential opportunity of this relationship for Amazon in relation to their corporate image. The findings indicate that a relationship between Alexa and consumers with special needs is established as it helps them regain their independence and freedom. This relationship provides an opportunity for Amazon in enhancing its overall image for providing solutions to facilitate the lives of people with special needs.
Natural convection heat transfer of water/Ag nanofluid inside an elliptical enclosure with different attack angles
Authors: Rozati Seyed Alireza , Montazerifar Farnaz , Ali Akbari Omid , Hoseinzadeh Siamak , Nikkhah Vahid , Marzban Ali , Abdolvand Hadi , Goodarzi Marjan
Published: December 2020

In this presentation, flow physics and natural heat transfer of water/Ag nanofluid are implemented by utilizing finite volume method (FVM) considering 0–6% of solid nanoparticles in volume fraction in an elliptical‐shaped enclosure affected by different attack angles range from 45° to 135°. This survey's foremost objective is to find the optimum attack angle for the highest heat transfer performance in the studied geometry. The attained results demonstrated that the Rayleigh number's augmentation leads to buoyancy force amplification and intensification of velocity components in the enclosure. Hence, the shapes of streamlines for each attack angle are different from the other states. The enhancement of the Rayleigh number causes better temperature distribution between cold and hot sources. The attack angle changes are the other factor for creating and intensity of the temperature gradients. By increasing the attack angle when the heat is transferred from the hot source to the top of the enclosure, the thermal distribution effects come with high gradients due to the flow balance disturbance and the changes in two sources' location. As the fluid moves, velocity components always change. In Rayleigh number of Ra = 1 × 103 due to a decrease of buoyancy force and negligible density changes in the enclosure, the average friction coefficient (Cfave) is not considerable, and for everyone studied attack angles, these changes are negligible. By augmenting attack angle (attack angles of 90° and 135°), because the tangential velocity component is weakened by gravity force, the values of created surface stress and fluid adhesion to the hot surface are less.
A robust DWT–CNN‐based CAD system for early diagnosis of autism using task‐based fMRI
Authors: Haweel Reem , Shalaby Ahmed , Mahmoud Ali , Seada Noha , Ghoniemy Said , Ghazal Mohammed , Casanova Manuel F. , Barnes Gregory N. , El‐Baz Ayman
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Task‐based fMRI (TfMRI) is a diagnostic imaging modality for observing the effects of a disease or other condition on the functional activity of the brain. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive developmental disorder associated with impairments in social and linguistic abilities. Machine learning algorithms have been widely utilized for brain imaging aiming for objective ASD diagnostics. Recently, deep learning methods have been gaining more attention for fMRI classification. The goal of this paper is to develop a convolutional neural network (CNN)‐based framework to help in global diagnosis of ASD using TfMRI data that are collected from a response to speech experiment.

Methods

To achieve this goal, the proposed framework adopts a novel imaging marker integrating both spatial and temporal information that are related to the functional activity of the brain. The developed pipeline consists of three main components. In the first step, the collected TfMRI data are preprocessed and parcellated using the Harvard–Oxford probabilistic atlas included with the fMRIB Software Library (FSL). Second, a group analysis using FSL is performed between ASD and typically developing (TD) children to identify significantly activated brain areas in response to the speech task. In order to reduce brain spatial dimensionality, a K‐means clustering technique is performed on such significant brain areas. Informative blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) signals are extracted from each cluster. A compression step for each extracted BOLD signal using discrete wavelet transform (DWT) has been proposed. The adopted wavelets are similar to the expected hemodynamic response which enables DWT to compress the BOLD signal while highlighting its activation information. Finally, a deep learning 2D CNN network is used to classify the patients as ASD or TD based on extracted features from the previous step.

Results

Preliminary results on 100 TfMRI dataset (50 ASD, 50 TD) obtain 80% correct global classification using tenfold cross validation (with sensitivity = 84%, specificity = 76%).

Conclusion

The experimental results show the high accuracy of the proposed framework and hold promise for the presented framework as a helpful adjunct to currently used ASD diagnostic tools.
Technical Note: A fast and monolithic prototype clinical proton radiography system optimized for pencil beam scanning
Authors: DeJongh Ethan A. , DeJongh Don F. , Polnyi Igor , Rykalin Victor , Sarosiek Christina , Coutrakon George , Duffin Kirk L. , Karonis Nicholas T. , Ordoñez Caesar E. , Pankuch Mark , Winans John R. , Welsh James S.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To demonstrate a proton‐imaging system based on well‐established fast scintillator technology to achieve high performance with low cost and complexity, with the potential of a straightforward translation into clinical use.

Methods

The system tracks individual protons through one (X, Y) scintillating fiber tracker plane upstream and downstream of the object and into a 13‐cm ‐thick scintillating block residual energy detector. The fibers in the tracker planes are multiplexed into silicon photomultipliers (SiPMs) to reduce the number of electronics channels. The light signal from the residual energy detector is collected by 16 photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Only four signals from the PMTs are output from each event, which allows for fast signal readout. A robust calibration method of the PMT signal to residual energy has been developed to obtain accurate proton images. The development of patient‐specific scan patterns using multiple input energies allows for an image to be produced with minimal excess dose delivered to the patient.

Results

The calibration of signals in the energy detector produces accurate residual range measurements limited by intrinsic range straggling. We measured the water‐equivalent thickness (WET) of a block of solid water (physical thickness of 6.10 mm) with a proton radiograph. The mean WET from all pixels in the block was 6.13 cm (SD 0.02 cm). The use of patient‐specific scan patterns using multiple input energies enables imaging with a compact range detector.

Conclusions

We have developed a prototype clinical proton radiography system for pretreatment imaging in proton radiation therapy. We have optimized the system for use with pencil beam scanning systems and have achieved a reduction of size and complexity compared to previous designs.
Quantitative NMR (qNMR) for pharmaceutical analysis: The pioneering work of George Hanna at the US FDA
Authors: Jaki Birgit U. , Bzhelyansky Anton , Pauli Guido F.
Published: December 2020

In the last two decades, quantitative NMR (qNMR) has become increasingly important for the analysis of pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and natural products including dietary supplements. For the purpose of quality control and chemical standardization of a large variety of pharmaceutical, chemical, and medicinal products, qNMR has proven to be a valuable orthogonal quantification method and a compelling alternative to chromatographic techniques. This work reviews a fundamental component of the early development of qNMR, reflected in the pioneering work of the late George M. Hanna during the years between 1984 and 2006 at the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Because Hanna performed the majority of his groundbreaking work on a 90‐MHz instrument, his legacy output connects with recent progress in low‐field benchtop NMR instrumentation. Hanna gradually established the utility of qNMR for the routine quality control analyses practiced in pharmaceutical and related operations well ahead of his peers. His work has the potential to inspire new developments in qNMR applied to small molecules of biomedical importance.
Self‐efficacy as a prognostic factor and treatment moderator in chronic musculoskeletal pain patients attending pain management programmes: A systematic review
Authors: Hayward Rebecca , Stynes Siobhan
Published: December 2020

Objective

Evidence on the effectiveness of pain management programmes (PMPs) for chronic pain patients is mixed. Self‐efficacy may be associated with outcome of PMPs. The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the role of self‐efficacy as a (i) prognostic factor and (ii) moderator of treatment, in chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) patients attending a PMP.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature and qualitative synthesis was carried out. Six electronic databases were searched (1989–2020). Studies that measured pain self‐efficacy as a prognostic factor or treatment moderator in patients with CMP, who participated in a multidisciplinary PMP were included. Study quality was appraised using the Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) tool and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system.

Results

Six studies investigating self‐efficacy as a prognostic factor were included with a total of 1881 participants. No studies were found assessing self‐efficacy as a treatment moderator. Self‐efficacy was a prognostic factor for physical functioning in two studies. There was weak evidence for self‐efficacy as a prognostic factor for disability, health‐related quality of life and pain outcomes and no evidence for psychological variables, disease severity and tender point index following PMPs. Quality of evidence was very low using the GRADE system for each outcome measure.

Conclusion

Baseline self‐efficacy may play a role in physical function outcomes in CMP patients attending a PMP. Higher quality evidence is needed to determine the influence of self‐efficacy on outcomes in this setting.
Formulation of a new elastoviscoplastic model for time‐dependent behavior of clay
Authors: Yuan Yixing , Whittle Andrew J.
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a generalized, elastoviscoplastic constitutive model, MIT‐SR, that is capable of describing a wide range of time‐dependent characteristics observed in clays from creep to strain‐rate‐dependent shear behavior. The key component of the proposed model is a novel evolution equation that attributes viscoplastic deformations to a state variable,Ra, referred to as internal strain rate, which represents the perturbation of the clay particle assembly due to historical straining. This state variable is driven by external straining actions (under compression or shear), which can be intrinsically linked to the loading step in classical plasticity theory, and decays with time representing a fading memory process. The proposed framework can be used to extend existing time‐independent elastoplastic models. In this case, MIT‐SR is built upon a prior elastoplastic model (MIT‐S1), which uses 3‐D stress‐space surfaces and hardening laws to represent anisotropic effective stress‐strain‐strength properties, and a paraelastic approach to describe nonlinear hysteretic behavior at small strains. The paper highlights the versatility of the proposed MIT‐SR model in representing a wide range of time‐dependent characteristics for normally consolidation behavior and undrained shear behavior. By varying a strain‐rate sensitivity parameter,β, the model can capture a full spectrum from temporary material response to changing strain rate, to isotache‐type behavior where the normal consolidation and critical state lines are functions of the applied steady strain rate. The paper also showcases the model prediction for undrained creep and undrained relaxation behavior, and its promising capability in describing rate‐effects under cyclic direct simple shear.