bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estrogen Signaling and Portopulmonary Hypertension: The Pulmonary Vascular Complications of Liver Disease Study (PVCLD2)
Authors: Al‐Naamani Nadine , Krowka Michael J. , Forde Kimberly A. , Krok Karen L. , Feng Rui , Heresi Gustavo A. , Dweik Raed A. , Bartolome Sonja , Bull Todd M. , Roberts Kari E. , Austin Eric D. , Hemnes Anna R. , Patel Mamta J. , Oh Jae K. , Lin Grace , Doyle Margaret F. , Denver Nina , Andrew Ruth , MacLean Margaret R. , Fallon Michael B. , Kawut Steven M. ,   , for the Pulmonary Vascular Complications of Liver Disease Study Group
Published: May 2020

Background and Aims

Portopulmonary hypertension (POPH) was previously associated with a single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs7175922 in aromatase (cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 [CYP19A1]). We sought to determine whether genetic variants and metabolites in the estrogen signaling pathway are associated with POPH.

Approach and Results

We performed a multicenter case‐control study. POPH patients had mean pulmonary artery pressure >25 mm Hg, pulmonary vascular resistance >240 dyn‐sec/cm−5, and pulmonary artery wedge pressure ≤15 mm Hg without another cause of pulmonary hypertension. Controls had advanced liver disease, right ventricular (RV) systolic pressure <40 mm Hg, and normal RV function by echocardiography. We genotyped three SNPs in CYP19A1 and CYP1B1 using TaqMan and imputed SNPs in estrogen receptor 1 using genome‐wide markers. Estrogen metabolites were measured in blood and urine samples. There were 37 patients with POPH and 290 controls. Mean age was 57 years, and 36% were female. The risk allele A in rs7175922 (CYP19A1) was significantly associated with higher levels of estradiol (P = 0.02) and an increased risk of POPH (odds ratio [OR], 2.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12‐4.91; P = 0.02) whereas other SNPs were not. Lower urinary 2‐hydroxyestrogen/16‐α‐hydroxyestrone (OR per 1‐ln decrease = 2.04; 95% CI, 1.16‐3.57; P = 0.01), lower plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone‐sulfate (OR per 1‐ln decrease = 2.38; 95% CI, 1.56‐3.85; P < 0.001), and higher plasma levels of 16‐α‐hydroxyestradiol (OR per 1‐ln increase = 2.16; 95% CI, 1.61‐2.98; P < 0.001) were associated with POPH.

Conclusions

Genetic variation in aromatase and changes in estrogen metabolites were associated with POPH.
Identification of Conservation Priority Zones Using Spatially Explicit Valued Ecosystem Services: A Case from the Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Sannigrahi Srikanta , Pilla Francesco , Basu Bidroha , Basu Arunima Sarkar , Zhang Qi , Wang Ying , Joshi Pawan Kumar , Chakraborti Suman , Coscieme Luca , Keesstra Saskia , Roy PS , Sutton Paul C
Published: May 2020

Demarcation of conservation priority zones (CPZs) using spatially explicit models is the new challenge in ecosystem services (ESs) research. This study identifies the CPZs of the Indian Sundarbans by integrating 2 different approaches, that is, ESs and ecosystem health (EH). Five successive steps were followed to conduct the analysis: First, the ESs were estimated using biophysical and economic methods and a hybrid method (that combines biophysical and economic methods); second, the vigor–organization–resilience (VOR) model was used for estimating EH; third, the risk characterization value (RCV) of ESs was measured using the function of EH and ESs; fourth, Pearson correlation test was performed to analyze the interaction between ESs and EH components; and fifth, the CPZs were defined by considering 7 relevant components: ecosystem vigor, ecosystem organization, ecosystem resilience, RCV, EH, ESs, and the correlation between EH and ESs. Among the major ecoregions of the Sundarbans, the highest ESs value in economic terms is provided by the mangrove ecosystem (US$19 144.9 million per year). The highest conservation priority score was projected for the Gosaba block, which is dominated by dense mangrove forests. The estimated CPZs were found to be highly consistent with the existing biodiversity zonations. The outcome of this study could be a reference for environmentalists, land administrators, researchers, and decision makers to design relevant policies to protect the high values of the Sundarbans ecosystem. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:773–787. © 2020 SETAC
Bees and the Environmental Impact of the Rupture of the Fundão Dam
Authors: Vieira Kamilla Ingred Castelan , Werneck Hugo de Azevedo , Santos Júnior José Eustáquio dos , Flores Dienny Sthefani da Silva , Serrão José Eduardo , Campos Lucio Antônio de Oliveira , Resende Helder Canto
Published: May 2020

The environmental consequences associated with the Fundão tailings dam failure in Mariana, Minas Gerais, Brazil on 5 November 2015 are still being investigated. Bees are the main pollinators believed to be most affected by the accident because they occur throughout the area affected by the dam rupture and build their nests in the soil. In this study, we evaluated the richness of different bee species in areas affected and not affected by the accident and measured the concentration of different metals on the pollen basket, or corbicula, located on the hind legs of Apis mellifera. Diversity indices were similar and there was no statistical difference in the diversity of bees sampled when comparing the sites affected and not affected by the tailings mud, either before or after the dam rupture. It is possible that the similarity is due to nearby forests that may be serving as areas of refuge. The levels of Al, Cu, Cd, Hg, and Pb in A. mellifera suggest no change in the level of metals in pollen collected by the bees that can be attributed to the rupture of the dam. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2020;16:631–635. © 2020 SETAC
The role of CDK6 in cancer
Authors: Nebenfuehr Sofie , Kollmann Karoline , Sexl Veronika
Published: May 2020

The regulation and function of cyclin‐dependent kinase 6 (CDK6)‐ and cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 (CDK4)‐cyclin complexes are commonly altered with enhanced kinase activity found in hematopoietic malignancies, breast cancer and melanoma making CDK4 and CDK6 attractive targets for therapeutic interference. Although dual CDK4/6 inhibitors have revolutionized treatment of breast cancer patients and reveal promising results in several solid tumors and hematological malignancies, there is a need for novel compounds targeting the versatile kinase‐independent functions of CDK6 to improve cancer treatment. The following review summarizes the latest findings on CDK6 in cancer development and discusses novel therapeutic approaches to selectively inhibit CDK6s function as a transcriptional regulator.
Simulations Studies of Protein Kinases that are Molecular Targets in Cancer
Authors: Friedman Ran , Bjelic Sinisa
Published: May 2020

Protein kinases are enzymes with partially overlapping specificities, many of which are important clinical targets. In this article, we give some background on protein kinases and discuss in more depth four such enzymes that have been studied in our labs using computer simulations. The combination of molecular dynamics simulations and enzyme or cell growth experiments was instrumental to explain why certain mutations lead (or do not lead) to resistance to targeted therapy aimed at these proteins. Stochastic network simulations were used to study protein‐protein interactions and suggest points for intervention against tumour growth.
Depolarization metric spaces for biological tissues classification
Authors: Van Eeckhout Albert , Garcia‐Caurel Enric , Ossikovski Razvigor , Lizana Angel , Rodríguez Carla , González‐Arnay Emilio , Campos Juan
Published: May 2020

Classification of tissues is an important problem in biomedicine. An efficient tissue classification protocol allows, for instance, the guided‐recognition of structures through treated images or discriminating between healthy and unhealthy regions (e.g., early detection of cancer). In this framework, we study the potential of some polarimetric metrics, the so‐called depolarization spaces, for the classification of biological tissues. The analysis is performed using 120 biological ex vivo samples of three different tissues types. Based on these data collection, we provide for the first time a comparison between these depolarization spaces, as well as with most commonly used depolarization metrics, in terms of biological samples discrimination. The results illustrate the way to determine the set of depolarization metrics which optimizes tissue classification efficiencies. In that sense, the results show the interest of the method which is general, and which can be applied to study multiple types of biological samples, including of course human tissues. The latter can be useful for instance, to improve and to boost applications related to optical biopsy.
Integrated photoacoustic and hyperspectral dual‐modality microscopy for co‐imaging of melanoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in vivo
Authors: Liu Ning , Chen Zhongjiang , Xing Da
Published: May 2020

Skin carcinoma such as melanoma (MM) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) are considered as the highest mortality and the most aggressive skin cancers in dermatology. In view that early diagnosis and treatment can greatly improve the survival rate and life quality of the patients, developing noninvasive and effective evaluation methods is of great significance for the detection and identification of early stage cutaneous cancers. In this article, we propose a hybrid photoacoustic and hyperspectral dual‐modality microscopy to evaluate and differentiate skin carcinoma by structural and multiphysiological parameters. The proposed system's imaging abilities are verified by mimic phantoms and normal mice experiments. Furthermore, in vivo characterization and evaluation results of MM and cSCC mice are obtained successfully, which prove this novel method could be used as a reliable and useful method for skin cancer detection in early stages.
Acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in Louisiana: Seasonal distribution and evaluation of an ADAMTS13 order screening protocol
Authors: Simenson Victoria , Burton Jeffrey , Del Toro Alejandra , Alquist Caroline Raasch
Published: May 2020

Background

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a life‐threatening disorder caused by inactivation of ADAMTS13. It is characterized by thrombocytopenia and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Previous studies have produced conflicting data regarding seasonal association of TTP diagnoses. This study evaluated the seasonal distribution of acute TTP in southern Louisiana. Additionally, this study timeline overlapped with the initiation of a new screening protocol for ADAMTS13 testing.

Study Design and Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients receiving ADAMTS13 testing at Ochsner Medical Center from January 2010 to December 2017 was performed. TTP patient episodes were defined by ADAMTS13 activity <10%. Episodes were plotted according to season of presentation and a chi‐square analysis was performed. Data of identified TTP patients was analyzed to evaluate for confounding variables. ADAMTS13 order volumes and results before and after screening protocol implementation were compared.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐two ADAMTS13 tests were ordered on 245 unique patients. Twenty‐five patients had ADAMTS13 activity <10%. No significant differences in seasonal TTP case distribution were identified. Patients with confirmed TTP were younger and more likely to be Black or African American. A screening protocol did not decrease the number of annual ADAMTS13 test orders in our time frame, but was associated with a nonsignificant increase in the percentage of positive results.

Conclusion

No significant seasonal distribution of TTP was identified in our population. This analysis provides previously unexamined regional information regarding this diagnosis. The number of tests ordered after the implementation of the screening protocol increased, corresponding with our facility's expanding reach.
The increase of osteopontin and β‐carboxy‐terminal cross‐linking telopeptide of type I collagen enhances the risk of hip fracture in the elderly
Authors: Lin Jian‐Chun , Liu Zhong‐Guo , Liu Rui‐Ren , Xie Liang‐Wen , Xie Huang‐Lin , Cai He‐Guo
Published: May 2020

Background

Hip fracture in the elderly is a health burden worldwide due to its high mortality rate. This study was conducted to determine the possible mechanisms of osteopontin (OPN) and β‐carboxy‐terminal cross‐linking telopeptide of type I collagen (β‐CTX) in hip fracture in the elderly.

Materials and Methods

In the study, we recruited 108 elderly patients with hip fracture diagnosed from May 2012 to May 2015 at the Third Hospital of Xiamen and 86 healthy individuals without a history of hip fracture were taken as controls. Serum levels of OPN and β‐CTX were then determined. The T and Z values for bone mineral density (BMD) were also measured. Moreover, logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the risk and protective factors for hip fracture in the elderly.

Results

Serum levels of both OPN and β‐CTX were increased in elderly patients with hip fracture. OPN was positively correlated with β‐CTX. In addition, the levels of OPN and β‐CTX shared a positive association with the age, and a negative association with the BMD, in terms of T and Z values of the hip. In addition, increased BMD and outdoor sports might be protective factors for hip fracture, and an increase in levels of OPN and β‐CTX might be associated with a higher risk of hip fracture in the elderly population.

Discussion

Collectively, increased serum levels of OPN and β‐CTX might be correlated with a higher risk of a hip fracture and have predictive values in the occurrence of hip fracture in the elderly.
Tinidazole: Another Therapeutic Option for Syphilis?
Authors: Drago Francesco , Ciccarese Giulia , Rebora Alfredo , Parodi Aurora
Published: May 2020

After the incidental observation of an almost complete resolution of maculopapular eruption in a patient having simultaneously secondary syphilis and trichomonas vaginalis infection, we extended the treatment with tinidazole (500 mg 4 times daily for 7 days) to 10 other early syphilis patients before the start of the conventional penicillin treatment. All patients showed marked improvement of their lesions in a few days. After the introduction of the conventional penicillin regimen, the lesions further improved and VDRL titers declined at least 4‐fold within 6 months in all patients. Tinidazole is a 5‐nitroimidazole derivative as well as metronidazole but with a longer plasma half‐life. It is activated intracellularly by bacterial/parasitic enzymes to a redox cytotoxic intermediate that damages large protein molecules and inhibits repair and transcription of DNA affecting also the cell wall. With this action, tinidazole might also have a synergic action with penicillin and doxycycline, facilitating the entry of such drugs. It is possible that tinidazole has the same bactericidal action on spirochetes other than Borrelia, such as Treponema pallidum, explaining its rapid therapeutic action on the lesions of early syphilis. Whether this action could be confirmed by studies on larger series of patients, tinidazole might be considered in case of allergy to penicillin or other antibiotics usually prescribed in syphilis.
Sequence variants in three genes underlying leukodystrophy in Pakistani families
Authors: Bibi Farah , Haider Nighat , Din Shahab Ud , Shah Muqadar , Krishin Jai , Qayyum Naila , Raja Ghazala Kaukab , Houlden Henry , Ahmad Wasim , Khaliq Tanwir , Ullah Asmat
Published: May 2020

Leukodystrophies (LDs) are a heterogeneous group of rare and progressive genetic diseases that affect brain, spinal cord, and often the peripheral nerves. They are characterized by abnormal development or destruction of the myelin sheath of the brain. This study was aimed to search for the causative variants in three unrelated consanguineous families presented with LD. Detailed clinical investigations were carried out on probands in three unrelated consanguineous families of Pakistani origin. Targeted gene sequencing and Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) were performed for variant identification. Candidate variants were checked for co‐segregation with the phenotype using Sanger sequencing. Public databases including ExAC, gnomAD, dbSNP, and the 1,000 Genome Project were searched to determine frequencies of the alleles. Conservation of the missense variants was ensured by aligning orthologous protein sequences from diverse vertebrate species. Targeted gene sequencing identified a novel homozygous missense mutation [c.2135G > A, p.(Arg712His) in the ATP Binding Cassette Subfamily D Member 1 (ABCD1; OMIM# 300371) in three affected siblings in family A.WES followed by validation by Sanger sequencing revealed previously reported homozygous missense variants [c.162C > A; p.(Asn54Lys)] in ASPA (OMIM# 608034) in family B and [c.361G > C,p.(Gly121Arg)] in ARSA (OMIM# 607574) in family C. Investigation of three families underlies importance of WES as an amazing diagnostic tool for conclusive determination of a specific type of LD. Further, the study would assist in carrier testing and prenatal diagnosis of the affected families. In addition, searching for common variants in the genes causing LD would help in designing low‐cost targeted variation testing in patients.
Confirmation of neurometabolic diagnoses using age‐dependent cerebrospinal fluid metabolomic profiles
Authors: Peters Tessa M. A. , Engelke Udo F. H. , de Boer Siebolt , van der Heeft Ed , Pritsch Cynthia , Kulkarni Purva , Wevers Ron A. , Willemsen Michèl A. A. P. , Verbeek Marcel M. , Coene Karlien L. M.
Published: May 2020

Timely diagnosis is essential for patients with neurometabolic disorders to enable targeted treatment. Next‐Generation Metabolic Screening (NGMS) allows for simultaneous screening of multiple diseases and yields a holistic view of disturbed metabolic pathways. We applied this technique to define a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) reference metabolome and validated our approach with patients with known neurometabolic disorders. Samples were measured using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry followed by (un)targeted analysis. For the reference metabolome, CSF samples from patients with normal general chemistry results and no neurometabolic diagnosis were selected and grouped based on sex and age (0‐2/2‐5/5‐10/10‐15 years). We checked the levels of known biomarkers in CSF from seven patients with five different neurometabolic disorders to confirm the suitability of our method for diagnosis. Untargeted analysis of 87 control CSF samples yielded 8036 features for semiquantitative analysis. No sex differences were found, but 1782 features (22%) were different between age groups (q < 0.05). We identified 206 diagnostic metabolites in targeted analysis. In a subset of 20 high‐intensity metabolites and 10 biomarkers, 17 (57%) were age‐dependent. For each neurometabolic patient, ≥1 specific biomarker(s) could be identified in CSF, thus confirming the diagnosis. In two cases, age‐matching was essential for correct interpretation of the metabolomic profile. In conclusion, NGMS in CSF is a powerful tool in defining a diagnosis for neurometabolic disorders. Using our database with many (age‐dependent) features in CSF, our untargeted approach will facilitate biomarker discovery and further understanding of mechanisms of neurometabolic disorders.
A potential vorticity perspective on cyclogenesis over centre‐eastern South America
Authors: Crespo Natália Machado , da Rocha Rosmeri Porfírio , Sprenger Michael , Wernli Heini
Published: May 2020

This study investigates the influence of upper‐level potential vorticity (PV) structures on surface cyclogenesis in central‐eastern South America using 1979–2017 ERA‐Interim reanalysis data. Surface cyclones are identified in three regions (Argentina, Uruguay and SEBrazil) and it is quantified how often PV streamers and PV cutoffs co‐occur with cyclogenesis events. There are interesting regional and seasonal differences: in Argentina PV streamers occur mainly with cyclogenesis in summer, and in Uruguay and SEBrazil in both summer and winter. In the three regions, PV streamers associated with cyclogenesis occur most frequently at 320 K, except for summer in SEBrazil, where they predominate at 340 K. PV cutoffs occur with lower frequencies than PV streamers during cyclogenesis, and they occur more often in summer than in winter in all three regions. The dynamics of cyclogenesis differs among the three regions in some important aspects. In Argentina, the environment is slightly more baroclinic in summer and genesis occurs beneath the equatorial entrance of a jet streak. In this season, the anomalous PV associated with a PV streamer is important to favour ascent in the baroclinic environment contributing to surface cyclogenesis. Similar patterns occur for cyclogenesis in summer and winter in Uruguay, and in winter in SEBrazil. In Argentina during winter, cyclogenesis is located beneath the poleward exit of a jet streak, with a weaker PV streamer upstream. In SEBrazil during summer, the jet stream is far displaced from the genesis region and cyclogenesis occurs in a more barotropic environment.
Maximum July–September temperatures derived from tree‐ring densities on the western Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Song Huiming , Mei Ruochen , Liu Yu , Nievergelt Daniel , Verstege Anne , Cherubini Paolo , Liu Ruoshi , Sun Changfeng , Li Qiang , Chen Ling , Zeng Xueli , Guo Junqin
Published: May 2020

Tree‐ring densitometric studies conducted in semi‐arid regions are exceedingly rare. In this study, we evaluate a new maximum latewood density chronology from a collection of Picea purpurea trees growing in semi‐arid northwestern China for climatic reconstruction purposes. We find statistically significant correlations between annual maximum density variations and July–September maximum temperatures over the 1957–2014 calibration period. Using a linear model to transfer the density variations to temperature estimates, we then reconstruct maximum summer temperatures from 1840 to 2014. Statistical analyses and verification tests demonstrate that the resulting transfer function is both reliable and stable. The reconstructed temperature series shows strong inter‐annual and decadal variability. Several extremely cool and warm years are apparent on an inter‐annual scale, while three extended cool periods and a warm period are observed on a decadal scale. In addition, the reconstructed temperature series exhibits a pattern synchronous with that of the Indian monsoon index, as well as a moderate relationship to volcanic eruptions. This densitometric study reveals typical climatic variation characteristics and provides useful data for deepening our understanding of climate history in the semi‐arid regions of China.
Acute colonic pseudo‐obstruction leading to perforation: a case‐control study investigating associations to tapentadol
Authors: Scott Matthew , Konstantatos Alex H. , Bui Thuy , Carne Peter , O'Donohoe Rory , Dearaugo Stephanie , Donovan Sarah
Published: May 2020

Background

Acute colonic pseudo‐obstruction (ACPO) is an uncommon syndrome where the large bowel dilates in the absence of mechanical obstruction and may progress to perforation. A recent increase in the incidence of ACPO complicated by colonic perforation had been noted at the Alfred Hospital, coinciding with the introduction of the analgesic tapentadol. This led to an investigation of potential associations between complicated ACPO and tapentadol, together with other identifiable factors.

Methods

This was a retrospective case‐control study. Eight cases were identified and confirmed radiologically. Four matched controls were identified for each case based on age, sex and comparable diagnosis at the time of presentation.

Results

Thirty‐five male and five female patients of similar age and comorbid disease were reviewed. Tapentadol use (p = 0.42) and duration (p = 0.81) and mean tapentadol dose (p = 0.07) did not differ between groups. Other associations included alcohol use of greater than three standard drinks per day (p = 0.031) and ondansetron use (p = 0.039) among cases. Mean (± SD) duration of opioid use was significantly longer in the cases than controls (7.6 ± 1.6 vs 5.0 ± 3.1 days respectively; p = 0.023; odds ratio 2.57, 95% confidence interval 1.1–5.8). Mean opioid dose (p = 0.68) did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Pseudo‐obstruction causing colonic perforation was associated with alcohol use of greater than three standard drinks per day, longer in‐hospital opioid use and ondansetron use, but not with the use, duration or mean dose of tapentadol. Data should be combined with data from other sites to strengthen associations.
Using UAV‐based remote sensing to assess grapevine canopy damage due to fire smoke
Authors: Brunori Elena , Maesano Mauro , Moresi Federico V , Antolini Adriano , Bellincontro Andrea , Forniti Roberto , Biasi Rita , Mencarelli Fabio
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Bushfires are becoming an increasing issue for the wine sector due to grape and vine losses and smoke taint in wine. Smoke affects vine physiology and the smoke's volatile phenols are absorbed by plants and berries, contaminating the wine. Our hypothesis was that, for the first time, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)‐based visible images can be used to study the physiology of smoke‐affected vines and to assess compromised vines.

RESULTS

Procanico vines were exposed to two smoke treatments, a week apart. Gas exchanges and leaf biochemical traits were measured in the short term (30 min after smoke exposure) and in the long term (24 h after smoke exposure). Canopy damage was assessed with conventional vegetation indices (VIs) and by an innovative index derived by UAV‐based visible images, the Canopy Area Health Index (CAHI). Gas exchange showed a reduction after the first smoke exposure, but the vines recovered within 24 h. The second smoke exposure led to an irreversible reduction in functional parameters. The VIs exhibited significant differences and CAHI presented a damage gradient related to bushfire nearby.

CONCLUSION

The vineyard damage assessment by UAV‐based visible images may represent a tool to study the physiological activity of smoke‐affected vines and to quantify the loss of destroyed or damaged vines. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
Livers From Pediatric Donation After Circulatory Death Donors Represent a Viable and Underutilized Source of Allograft
Authors: Little Christopher J. , Dick Andre A. S. , Perkins James D. , Hsu Evelyn K. , Reyes Jorge D.
Published: May 2020

Despite increased numbers of donation after circulatory death (DCD) donors, pediatric DCD livers are underused. To investigate possible reasons for this discrepancy, we conducted a retrospective cohort study using 2 data sets from the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network for all deceased liver donors and for all recipients of DCD liver transplants from March 8, 1993, to June 30, 2018. Pediatric (0‐12 years) and adolescent (13‐17 years) DCD donors were compared with those aged 18‐40 years. We found that pediatric DCD allografts are recovered at a significantly lower rate than from 18‐to‐40‐year‐old donors (27.3% versus 56.3%; P < 0.001). However, once recovered, these organs are transplanted at a similar rate to those from the 18‐to‐40‐year‐old donor cohort (74.7% versus 74.2%). Significantly more pediatric DCD livers (odds ratio [OR], 3.75; confidence interval [CI], 3.14‐4.47) were not recovered compared with adult organs, which were most commonly not recovered due to organ quality (10.2% versus 7.1%; P < 0.001). The 10‐year relative risks (RRs) for graft failure and patient death were similar between pediatric and adult DCD donors, with adolescent DCD livers demonstrating improved outcomes. DCD livers transplanted into pediatric donors were protective against graft failure (RR, 0.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.21‐0.99) and patient death (RR, 0.16; 95% CI, 0.04‐0.69). In conclusion, despite lower rates of recovery, pediatric DCD livers represent a viable organ source for certain adults and children.
CT metal artifact reduction algorithms: Toward a framework for objective performance assessment
Authors: Vaishnav J. Y. , Ghammraoui B. , Leifer M. , Zeng R. , Jiang L. , Myers K. J.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Although several metal artifact reduction (MAR) algorithms for computed tomography (CT) scanning are commercially available, no quantitative, rigorous, and reproducible method exists for assessing their performance. The lack of assessment methods poses a challenge to regulators, consumers, and industry. We explored a phantom‐based framework for assessing an important aspect of MAR performance: how applying MAR in the presence of metal affects model observer performance at a low‐contrast detectability (LCD) task This work is, to our knowledge, the first model observer–based framework for the evaluation of MAR algorithms in the published literature.

Methods

We designed a numerical head phantom with metal implants. In order to incorporate an element of randomness, the phantom included a rotatable inset with an inhomogeneous background. We generated simulated projection data for the phantom. We applied two variants of a simple MAR algorithm, sinogram inpainting, to the projection data, that we reconstructed using filtered backprojection. To assess how MAR affected observer performance, we examined the detectability of a signal at the center of a region of interest (ROI) by a channelized Hotelling observer (CHO). As a figure of merit, we used the area under the ROC curve (AUC).

Results

We used simulation to test our framework on two variants of the MAR technique of sinogram inpainting. We found that our method was able to resolve the difference in two different MAR algorithms’ effect on LCD task performance, as well as the difference in task performances when MAR was applied, vs not.

Conclusion

We laid out a phantom‐based framework for objective assessment of how MAR impacts low‐contrast detectability, that we tested on two MAR algorithms. Our results demonstrate the importance of testing MAR performance over a range of object and imaging parameters, since applying MAR does not always improve the quality of an image for a given diagnostic task. Our framework is an initial step toward developing a more comprehensive objective assessment method for MAR, which would require developing additional phantoms and methods specific to various clinical applications of MAR, and increasing study efficiency.
Improved velocity‐selective‐inversion arterial spin labeling for cerebral blood flow mapping with 3D acquisition
Authors: Liu Dapeng , Xu Feng , Li Wenbo , van Zijl Peter C. , Lin Doris D. , Qin Qin
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To further optimize the velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling (VSASL) sequence utilizing a Fourier‐transform based velocity‐selective inversion (FT‐VSI) pulse train, and to evaluate its utility for 3D mapping of cerebral blood flow (CBF) with a gradient‐ and spin‐echo (GRASE) readout.

Methods

First, numerical simulations and phantom experiments were done to test the susceptibility to eddy currents and B1 field inhomogeneities for FT‐VSI pulse trains with block and composite refocusing pulses. Second, the choices of the post‐labeling delay (PLD) for FT‐VSI prepared 3D VSASL were evaluated for the sensitivity to perfusion signal. The study was conducted among a young‐age and a middle‐age group at 3T.

Both signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and CBF were quantitatively compared with pseudo‐continuous ASL (PCASL). The optimized 3D VSI‐ASL was also qualitatively compared with PCASL in a whole‐brain coverage among two healthy volunteers and a brain tumor patient.

Results

The simulations and phantom test showed that composite refocusing pulses are more robust to both eddy‐currents and B1 field inhomogeneities than block pulses. 3D VSASL images with FT‐VSI preparation were acquired over a range of PLDs and PLD = 1.2 s was selected for its higher perfusion signal. FT‐VSI labeling produced quantitative CBF maps with 27% higher SNR in gray matter compared to PCASL. 3D whole‐brain CBF mapping using VSI‐ASL were comparable to the corresponding PCASL results.

Conclusion

FT‐VSI with 3D‐GRASE readout was successfully implemented and showed higher sensitivity to perfusion signal than PCASL for both young and middle‐aged healthy volunteers.
Urethral bulking with Bulkamid: An analysis of efficacy, safety profile, and predictors of functional outcomes in a single‐center cohort
Authors: Giammò Alessandro , Geretto Paolo , Ammirati Enrico , Manassero Alberto , Squintone Luisella , Vercelli Dario , Carone Roberto
Published: May 2020

Aims

The aim of the present work is to analyze the safety profile, effectiveness, and favorable and unfavorable predictors of clinical outcome in urethral bulking with Bulkamid, and to better identify the ideal candidate for the procedure.

Methods

We included all consecutive female patients treated with urethral bulking with Bulkamid at our institution within 2 years. Patients were affected by stress urinary incontinence (SUI) or mixed incontinence. Incontinence severity was classified as “mild” (urinary leakage <50 g/die), “moderate” (50‐200 g/die), or “severe” (>200 g/die) at 24‐hours pad test. Clinical success was defined as “dry” (no pads); clinical failure included “partial improvement” (>50% 24‐hours pad test reduction) and “no benefit” (<50% 24‐hours pad test reduction). The χ2 and Mann‐Whitney tests were performed to assess the predictors of clinical outcome.

Results

The success rate was 36.1% (n = 35). Forty‐three patients (44.3%) reported continence improvement. Complications included eight urinary retention cases (8.2%). Statistically significant correlation was observed between incontinence severity and clinical outcome in thee χ2 test (P = .008). No significant correlation was found between functional outcome and urodynamic incontinence features, postoperative urinary retention, previous pelvic surgery, age, and other physiological, pathological, and urodynamics characteristics. Urinary retention following the surgical procedure appeared to be related to clinical success with nonsignificant P value (P = .10).

Conclusions

Bulkamid procedure could be proposed with good results in elderly patients or in patients requiring a low‐invasive procedure with low risk of complications, affected either by SUI or mixed incontinence and with mild to moderate incontinence. Previous training to clean intermittent self‐catheterization maneuver should be performed.
Methods of Estimating Nasogastric Tube Length: All, Including “NEX,” Are Unsafe
Authors: Taylor Stephen J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Predominance of blind feeding tube placement makes esophageal tube misplacement and aspiration risk commonplace. Accurate estimation of nose‐to‐stomach length could reduce this risk. Standards for estimating this length were audited against the length measured from guided tube placement.

Methods

This prospective, single‐center observational study used electromagnet‐guided tube placement to measure the length from nose to gastric body flexure as part of routine care. This measurement was used to audit standard equations used to estimate this length from external measures: xiphisternum‐ear‐nose + 10 cm (XEN+10), nose‐ear‐xiphisternum (NEX), and Hanson_A and Hanson_B.

Results

From April 23, 2015, to March 2, 2020, measurements were obtained from 200 primary tube placements. Median length to the gastric body flexure (61 cm) was significantly different from that to the pre‐gastroesophageal junction flexure (48 cm) or lengths predicted by NEX (51 cm) or Hanson_A (50.5 cm) and Hanson_B (56.1 cm) (all P < .00001) but similar to XEN+10 (61 cm). Esophageal placement was a potential risk for all methods (NEX: 96.3%, Hanson_A: 99.5%, Hanson_B: 86.9%, XEN+10: 43.2%) and a definite risk for most (NEX and Hanson_A: 14.9%, Hanson_B: 1%, XEN+10: 0%).

Conclusions

NEX and Hanson methods of predicting the length from nose to gastric body flexure are too short and risk esophageal misplacement. XEN+10 reduces but does not eliminate this risk. External measurement predictions are clinically unsafe as a guide blind tube placement. Guided placement is recommended.
Optimal control of district heating networks using a reduced order model
Authors: Rein Markus , Mohring Jan , Damm Tobias , Klar Axel
Published: May 2020

We study the optimal control of district heating networks using a reduced order model based on a system theoretic description close to the underlying Euler equations. In the presented scenarios, the central task is to limit the maximal feed‐in power occurring as a product of control and state variables. The underlying dynamics of heating networks acting as optimization constraints pose the central computational complexity, prohibiting the determination of an optimal control online. The advection of the injected energy density on the network results in an index‐1, quadratic in state differential algebraic equation, challenging to reduce. The suggested reduced model decreases the computation time of the optimization significantly. The effectiveness of the presented approach is demonstrated for an existing, large‐scale heating network including changes of flux directions.
Static and dynamic behavior of micrometric agro Prunus amygdalus particulate distributed interpolymer layer‐kenaf composite
Authors: Sabarinathan P. , Rajkumar K. , Annamalai V. E. , Vishal K.
Published: May 2020

Natural fibers and fillers are playing a predominant role in enlightening the damping and mechanical properties of polymer material. The hybrid kenaf polymer composite was prepared using compression molding technique with the micrometric sized Prunus amygdalus fillers of 0, 5, 10, and 15 vol%, evenly distributed in the vinyl ester polymer interlayers. This work deals with the effect of variation in P. amygdalus content and the effect of chemical treatments like silane and alkaline treatment on the dynamic characteristics of fabricated composites. The kenaf woven fabric and P. amygdalus fillers were chemically treated using tri vinyl ethoxy silane and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution to modify their surface characteristics. The effect of chemical treatment on the kenaf fiber and P. amygdalus filler was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. From experiments, it is observed that chemical treatment removes the strength reducing substances like lignin, hemicellulose and wax from the kenaf fiber and P. amygdalus filler surfaces. The addition of filler and chemical treatment increase the tensile strength to 56 MPa and flexural strength to 89 MPa. Silane‐treatedP. amygdalus filler with 10% composite, reveals higher storage modulus of 4.71 GPa than the alkaline and untreated composites in all tested frequencies. This may be due to enhanced tensile modulus and better interfacial bonding between P. amygdalus filler and vinyl ester matrix. Fractography was studied using micrographs of the scanning electron microscope. The result shows the predominance of brittle mode of failure in all types of fabricated composites. This kind of industrial agro waste hybrid composite can be considered as an effective damping material.
Structural, thermal, and linear optical properties of SiO2 nanoparticles dispersed in polyvinyl alcohol nanocomposite films
Authors: Soliman Tarek S. , Vshivkov Sergey A. , Elkalashy Shimaa I.
Published: May 2020

In the present work, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films were prepared for polymer optoelectronic applications, in which the SiO2 nanoparticles were incorporated through a sonication technique followed by a solution casting method. The structure of PVA/SiO2 films was evaluated using the experimental results attained by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) examinations. A thermal stability study of the nanocomposite films was performed. UV‐vis spectra were used to investigate the optical properties of PVA/SiO2 nanocomposite films. The XRD results confirmed the semicrystalline nature of the PVA. The SEM results ascertained the homogeneity of the SiO2 nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. From the study, a simultaneous increase of SiO2 nanoparticle content decreased the direct optical band gap and Urbach energy; however, the refractive index and extinction coefficient were increased. The acquired nanocomposite films could be utilized in polymer optoelectronic applications.
Envy and emotional intelligence: Evidence from a cross‐lagged analysis
Authors: Xiang Yanhui , Li Qi , Dong Xia , Yuan Rong
Published: May 2020

The association between envy and emotional intelligence (EI) has been documented. This study aimed to explore the causal relationship between envy and EI based on evolutionary theory and an emotional intelligence ability model in a cross‐lagged longitudinal design. Using the revised Chinese version of the Dispositional Envy Scale and the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale, a 1‐year follow‐up study was conducted on 260 Chinese university students (56 males and 204 females). Longitudinal analysis indicated that envy and EI tracked over time. Cross‐lagged analysis found that envy could significantly predict the generation and development of EI as well as its four dimensions (self‐emotional appraisal, emotional regulation, othersʼ emotional appraisal, and emotional use). Our findings provide better understanding of the link between envy and EI. These results are helpful for improving undergraduatesʼ social adaptation levels.
A quantitative bias analysis of the confounding effects due to smoking on the association between fluoroquinolones and risk of aortic aneurysm
Authors: Zhang Mingfeng , Falconer Monique , Taylor Lockwood
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Epidemiologic studies consistently report an increased risk of aortic aneurysm (AA) among users of fluoroquinolones (FQ), but confounding by smoking could explain all or some of the observed risk. Therefore, to better elucidate the potential causal impact of FQ on AA, we quantitatively evaluated the potential confounding effect of smoking on this observed association.

Methods

We conducted a series of quantitative bias analyses using three previously published approaches: the E‐value approach, the rule‐out approach, and the array approach. We additionally conducted a numerical comparison between the rule‐out approach and the E‐value approach.

Results

For an apparent relative risk of 2, the E‐value is 3.41, suggesting that smoking needs to be associated with both FQ and AA with a minimal magnitude of 3.41 to explain away the observed twofold FQ‐AA association. The array approach found that the prevalence of smoking among FQ users would need to be at least 2.9 times higher (43%) than the nonusers (15%), assuming smoking increases the risk of AA by 7.6‐fold. A numerical comparison demonstrated that the results from the rule‐out approach are similar to that of the E‐value approach when there is a lack of prior data on bias parameters.

Conclusions

Using three different approaches, we demonstrate that the strengths of association between smoking and both FQ and AA need to be unusually strong to fully account for the twofold increased risk between FQ and AA. Therefore, it is unlikely that smoking alone would explain away the association reported in the epidemiologic studies.
A Promising Fuel for Variable Thrust Motor: HTPB Propellant with High Pressure Exponent
Authors: Ma Song , Xu Huixiang , Shi Xiaobing , Li Yang , Li Yonghong , Zeng Liyuan , Fan Hongjie , Ran Xiulun
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we developed a HTPB propellant containing energetic compound hydrated‐tetra‐(‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole) copper perchlorate (ACP) as the fuel for variable thrust motor with the purpose of controlling gas flow. Formulation of the propellant was designed and then various performances of this propellant were investigated. Results show that HTPB propellant containing 2 % ACP has a pressure exponent of 0.57 (static) or 0.56 (dynamic), suggesting an excellent capacity to control the burning rate. Thermal decomposition of ACP and the decomposition of ammonium perchlorate (AP) in high temperature are demonstrated to be sensitive to pressure by PDSC analysis, moreover, decomposition of AP in high temperature (around 400 °C) could be accelerated by ACP, φ 50 mm motors charged with this propellant work stably in the pressure range from 1.18 MPa to 21.72 MPa and less aluminum (Al) deposits in chambers and nozzles. Mechanical performance of the propellant in −40 °C and 20 °C turns out to be excellent with σm≥0.96 MPa and ϵb≥20.92 %, and is better than that in 50 °C. Low impact sensitivity (H50, 72 cm) and friction sensitivity (P, 31 %) of HTPB propellant containing 2 % ACP are found in the security tests, the propellant is also insensitive to shock wave (G50, 23.8 mm).
Structural and Magnetotransport Studies of Iron‐Intercalated Bi2Se3 Single Crystals
Authors: Sharma Shailja , Yadav Chandra S.
Published: May 2020

A detailed investigation on the structural and magnetotransport properties of iron‐intercalated Bi2Se3 single crystals is presented. The X‐ray diffraction and Raman studies confirm the intercalation of Fe in the van der Waals gaps between the layers. The electrical resistivity of the compounds decreases upon intercalation, and Hall resistivity shows the enhancement of the charge carriers upon intercalation. The magnetoresistance (MR) shows the non‐saturating linear behavior at higher magnetic field and low temperature. Intercalation of Fe increases the onset of the linear MR behavior, indicating the reduction in quantum effects. The Kohler scaling used on the MR data indicates single scattering process for all these compounds in the measured temperature range of 3–300 K.
p53 dependent LGR5 inhibition and caspase 3 activation are critically involved in apoptotic effect of compound K and its combination therapy potential in HCT116 cells
Authors: Pak Ji‐Na , Jung Ji Hoon , Park Ji Eon , Hwang Jisung , Lee Hyo Jung , Shim Bum‐Sang , Kim Sung‐Hoon
Published: May 2020

Though ginsenoside metabolite compound K was known to have antitumor effect in several cancers, its underlying apoptotic mechanism still remains unclear so far. Thus, in the present study, the apoptotic mechanism of compound K was explored in colorectal cancer cells (CRCs) in association with leucine rich repeat containing G protein‐coupled receptor 5 (LGR5) that was overexpressed in colorectal cancers with poor survival rate. Here compound K significantly reduced viability of HCT116p53+/+ cells better than that of HCT116p53−/−cells. Consistently, compound K increased sub G1 population and attenuated the expression of LGR5, c‐Myc, procaspase3, Pin1 in HCT116p53+/+ cells more than in HCT116p53−/− cells. Conversely, caspase 3 inhibitor Z‐DEVD‐FMK reversed inhibitory effect of compound K on LGR5, c‐Myc and procaspase3 in HCT116 cells. Consistently, inhibition of LGR5 using transfection method enhanced suppression of pro‐PARP, Bcl‐xL c‐Myc, Snail and Pin1 in compound K treated HCT116p53+/+ cells. Furthermore, compound K synergistically potentiated antitumor effect of 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) or Doxorubicin to reduce the survival genes and cytotoxicity in HCT116p53+/+ cells. Overall, our findings provide scientific insight that compound K induces apoptosis in colon cancer cells via caspase and p53 dependent LGR5 inhibition with combination therapy potential with 5‐FU or doxorubicin.