bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technical Note: Evaluation of kV CBCT enhancement using a liver‐specific contrast agent for stereotactic body radiation therapy image guidance
Authors: Lincoln John D. , Parsons David , Clarke Sharon E. , Cwajna Slawa , Robar James L.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To evaluate possible use for cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) guidance, this phantom study evaluated the contrast enhancement provided by Gadoxetate Disodium (Primovist® CAN/EU, or Eovist® USA, Bayer Healthcare, Leverkusen, Germany), a contrast agent that is taken up selectively by liver cells and is retained for up to an hour. Image quality from CBCT was benchmarked against helical fan‐beam computed tomography for two phantom geometries.

Methods and Materials

Concentrations were diluted to 0.0125–0.1 mmol per kilogram of body weight (mmol/kg) corresponding to expected physiological concentrations in the liver. Kilovoltage CBCT imaging parameters of x‐ray tube potential, current, and filtration were investigated using clinically available options on a TrueBeam STx linear accelerator CBCT platform. Two phantoms were created, a cylindrical idealized imaging geometry and an ellipsoidal more realistic abdominal geometry. All parameters were optimized according to the contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) image quality metric, as a function of concentration, following the Rose criterion for CNR.

Results

Acceptable CNR was defined as greater than or equal to three, in accordance with the Rose criterion for CNR. These were found in a range of expected liver concentrations of 0.025–0.1 mmol/kg for a tube potential of 100 kVp, half‐fan bowtie filtration and tube currents giving exposures between 2025 and 5085 mAs. Linear correlations were found for all CNR as a function of concentration, in agreement with the literature.

Conclusion

Based on this phantom study, with appropriate selection of imaging protocol, Gadoxetate Disodium may provide useful liver CBCT enhancement at physiologically achievable liver concentrations.
Provisional best practices guidelines for the evaluation of bulbar dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Pattee Gary L. , Plowman Emily K. , (Focht) Garand Kendrea L. , Costello John , Brooks Benjamin Rix , Berry James D. , Smith Richard A. , Atassi Nazem , Chapin Jennifer L. , Yunusova Yana , McIlduff Courtney E. , Young Eufrosina , Macklin Eric A. , Locatelli Eduardo R. , Silani Vincenzo , Heitzman Daragh , Wymer James , Goutman Stephen A. , Gelinas Deborah F. , Perry Bridget , Nalipinski Paige , Stipancic Kaila , O'Brien Meghan , Sullivan Stacey L. , Pioro Erik P. , Gargiulo Gisella , Green Jordan R. ,   Contributing Members of the NEALS Bulbar Subcommittee
Published: January 2019

Introduction: Universally established comprehensive clinical bulbar scales objectively assessing disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are currently lacking. The goal of this working group project is to design a best practice set of provisional bulbar ALS guidelines, available for immediate implementation within all ALS clinics. Methods: ALS specialists across multiple related disciplines participated in a series of clinical bulbar symposia, intending to identify and summarize the currently accepted best practices for the assessment and management of bulbar dysfunction in ALS Results: Summary group recommendations for individual speech, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and swallowing sections were achieved, focusing on the optimal proposed level of care within each domain. Discussion: We have identified specific clinical recommendations for each of the 3 domains of bulbar functioning, available for incorporation within all ALS clinics. Future directions will be to establish a formal set of bulbar guidelines through a methodological and evidence‐based approach. Muscle Nerve 59:531–531, 2019
Consequences of Fishery Gear Type and Handling Practices on Capture and Release of Wild Steelhead on the Bulkley River
Authors: Twardek W. M. , Elmer L. K. , Beere M. C. , Cooke S. J. , Danylchuk A. J.
Published: January 2019

Steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss are captured and released during spawning migrations by the commercial, subsistence (Indigenous), and recreational fishing sectors, though the consequences of these fisheries interactions on steelhead migration are poorly understood. This study evaluated injury, reflex impairment, behavior, and survival of released wild adult steelhead following capture in the subsistence dip-net, subsistence beach-seine, and recreational angling fisheries of the Bulkley River, British Columbia. Wild steelhead were captured using common handling practices employed in each fishery and were monitored postrelease using radiotelemetry. A greater proportion of steelhead captured by dip net and seine had impaired righting reflexes compared with angled fish, but only fish captured by dip net had notably higher incidence of injury (i.e., net marks, torn fins, flesh wounds, scale loss). Fish captured by dip and seine net had considerably faster peak migration rates (>4,000 m/d) than angled fish (<1,000 m/d), which likely reflects when the steelhead are encountered during their migration in these fisheries (earlier versus later stages). Air exposure (15–74 s) and water temperature (9.2–15.1°C) at the time of capture had significant negative relationships with 24-h fallback behavior (temperature only), intermediate-term (10–20 d after capture) migration rates, and peak migration rates in dip-net-captured steelhead. There were no significant effects of capture duration or fish length on injury, righting reflexes, or migratory behavior. Immediate mortality upon release was rare and occurred in only one fish captured by dip net. The 3-d survival was 88–97% for dip-net-caught steelhead, 96–100% for seine-caught steelhead, and 68–100% for angled steelhead. Despite inherent differences in timing and location between these fisheries, findings suggest that air exposure and water temperature can decrease steelhead migration rates. Fishers should look for opportunities to avoid or minimize these capture and handling conditions when releasing steelhead.
Effects of bladder shape on accuracy of measurement of bladder volume using portable ultrasound scanner and development of correction method
Authors: Zhao Lingna , Liao Limin , Gao Lijuan , Gao Yi , Chen Guoqing , Cong Huiling , Wang Yiming , Liao Xiwen
Published: January 2019

Aims

To compare the accuracy of using a bladder scanner to measure bladder volume through intermittent catheterization (IC) in patients and to introduce the Bladder Deformation Index (BDI) to develop a correction method.

Methods

Bladder volume was assessed by a nurse with the scanner. A second nurse catheterized the patient's bladder. A third nurse measured the urine volume in a 500‐mL or 1000‐mL graduated cylinder.

Results

Sixty one patients were included and 590 pairs of data were obtained. The mean bladder volume measured using a scanner and IC was (332.3 ± 156.1) mL and (339.1 ± 158.8) mL. The mean absolute difference was 30.8 mL. The correlation coefficient was 0.929. Patients were classified into 2 groups depending on whether they had undergone augmentation cystoplasty. The mean absolute difference was 109.2 and 20.4 mL. The correlation coefficient was 0.712 and 0.981. According to the BDI, bladders can be classified into 3 groups. The mean absolute difference was 21.9, 60.4, and 109.4 mL. The correlation coefficient was 0.970, 0.839, and 0.783. The linear regression equations of Grade I and Grade II were Y = 1.11X + 3.1 and Y = 0.76X + 161.5.

Conclusions

The results showed that bladder shape plays a critical role in accuracy which is inversely associated with BDI. This degree of accuracy is sufficient; especially measurement adjusted using the linear regression equation in patients with high BDI. However, although the preliminary results of the study are promising, a large‐scale prospective study should be needed to address the validation of the data in the future.
Validation of a 3 day electronic bladder diary as an app for smart‐phone
Authors: Mateu Arrom Laura , Peri Cusi Lluís , López‐Fando Luis , Franco de Castro Agustín , Jiménez Cidre Miguel Ángel , Alcaraz Antonio
Published: January 2019

Aim

To validate an electronic 3‐day bladder diary (BD) as an easy‐to‐use app for smart‐phone (eDM3d).

Methods

Descriptive and cross‐sectional prospective study. One hundred and thirty‐six patients with overactive bladder syndrome (OABs) or nocturia who had a smart‐phone and attended the urology clinics of a tertiary hospital from June to November 2017 were included. Patients filled the eDM3d (test) and the Spanish validated paper BD (DM3d) and questionnaires ICIQ‐UISF and BASQ during the first week. Two weeks later, they repeated the eDM3d (retest). We assessed feasibility of the eDM3d (percentage of variables completed), test‐retest reliability (qualitative variables: McNemar test; quantitative variables: ICC), paper‐app correlation (qualitative variables: Kappa index; quantitative variables: ICC) and convergent validity (correlation between eDM3d and questionnaires, Spearman's rank test). Patients answered a question about satisfaction: “If you had to repeat a BD again, would you choose paper or the app version?”

Results

One hundred and twenty‐three (90.4%) participants completed all the variables of the first eDM3d. There were no significant differences in the proportion of patients classified as positive for each symptom between test and retest. ICC ranged from 0.73 to 0.94 for all variables (P < 0.001) in the test‐retest assessment. Paper‐app correlation was good to excellent for all variables (ICC 0.76‐0.95, P < 0.001; Kappa index 0.56‐0.84, P < 0.001). Correlation between the eDM3d and the questionnaires ranged from 0.23 to 0.6 (P < 0.01). 120 (88.2%) patients would choose the eDM3d if they had to repeat a BD.

Conclusion

The eDM3d presents suitable feasibility, reliability, and validity to assess patients with OABs or nocturia who have a smart‐phone.
Morphology and electrochemical and mechanical properties of polyethylene‐oxide‐based nanofibrous electrolytes applicable in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Banitaba Seyedeh N , Semnani Dariush , Rezaei Behzad , Ensafi Ali A
Published: January 2019

We report the synthesis of all‐solid‐state polymeric electrolytes based on electrospun nanofibers. These nanofibers are composed of polyethylene oxide (PEO) as the matrix, lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) as the lithium salt and propylene carbonate (PC) as the plasticizer. The effects of the PEO, LiClO4 and PC ratios on the morphological, mechanical and electrochemical characteristics were investigated using the response surface method (RSM) and analysis of variance test. The prepared nanofibrous electrolytes were characterized using SEM, Fourier transform infrared, XRD and DSC analyses. Conductivity measurements and tensile tests were conducted on the prepared electrolytes. The results show that the average diameter of the nanofibers decreased on reduction of the PEO concentration and addition of PC and LiClO4. Fourier transport infrared analysis confirmed the complexation between PEO and the additives. The highest conductivity was 0.05 mS cm−1 at room temperature for the nanofibrous electrolyte with the lowest PEO concentration and the highest ratio of LiClO4. The optimum nanofibrous electrolyte showed stable cycling over 30 cycles. The conductivity of a polymer film electrolyte was 29 times lower than that of the prepared nanofibrous electrolyte with similar chemical composition. Furthermore, significant fading in mechanical properties was observed on addition of the PC plasticizer. The results obtained imply that further optimization might lead to practical uses of nanofibrous electrolytes in lithium ion batteries. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Airway microenvironment alterations and pathogen growth in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Rossi Giovanni A. , Morelli Patrizia , Galietta Luis J. , Colin Andrew A.
Published: January 2019

Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator (CFTR) dysfunction is associated with epithelial cell vulnerability and with dysregulation of the local inflammatory responses resulting in excessive airway neutrophilic inflammation and pathogen growth. In combination with impaired mucociliary clearance, and dysregulation of defense function, bacterial infection follows with eventual airway damage and remodeling. Because of these inherent vulnerabilities, viral infections are also more severe and prolonged and appear to render the airway even more prone to bacterial infection. Airway acidity, deficient nitric oxide production and increased iron concentrations, further enhance the airway milieu's susceptibility to infection. Novel diagnostic techniques of the airway microbiome elucidate the coexistence of an array of non‐virulent taxa beyond the recognized virulent organisms, predominantly Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The complex interplay between these two bacterial populations, including upregulation of virulence genes and utilization of mucin as a nutrient source, modulates the action of pathogens, modifies the CF airway milieu and contributes to the processes leading to airway derangement. The review provides an update on recent advances of the complex mechanisms that render the CF airway vulnerable to inflammation, infection and ultimately structural damage, the key pathogenetic elements of CF. The recent contributions on CF pathogenesis will hopefully help in identifying new prophylactic measures and therapeutic targets for this highly destructive disorder.
Electrostatic interactions determine entrance/release order of substrates in the catalytic cycle of adenylate kinase
Authors: Ye Chun , Ding Chengtao , Ma Rongsheng , Wang Junfeng , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: January 2019

Adenylate kinase is a monomeric phosphotransferase with important biological function in regulating concentration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in cells, by transferring the terminal phosphate group from ATP to adenosine monophosphate (AMP) and forming two adenosine diphosphate (ADP) molecules. During this reaction, the kinase may undergo a large conformational transition, forming different states with its substrates. Although many structures of the protein are available, atomic details of the whole process remain unclear. In this article, we use both conventional molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and an enhanced sampling technique called parallel cascade selection MD simulation to explore different conformational states of the Escherichia coli adenylate kinase. Based on the simulation results, we propose a possible entrance/release order of substrates during the catalytic cycle. The substrate‐free protein prefers an open conformation, but changes to a closed state once ATP·Mg enters into its binding pocket first and then AMP does. After the reaction of ATP transferring the terminal phosphate group to AMP, ADP·Mg and ADP are released sequentially, and finally the whole catalyze cycle is completed. Detailed contact and distance analysis reveals that the entrance/release order of substrates may be largely controlled by electrostatic interactions between the protein and the substrates.
Mediterranean versus Atlantic monk parakeets Myiopsitta monachus: towards differentiated management at the European scale
Authors: Postigo Jose‐Luis , Strubbe Diederik , Mori Emiliano , Ancillotto Leonardo , Carneiro Inês , Latsoudis Panagiotis , Menchetti Mattia , Pârâu Liviu G , Parrott Dave , Reino Luís , Weiserbs Anne , Senar Juan Carlos
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

The monk parakeet Myiopsitta monachus (Boddaert), native to South America, is an invasive species in several European countries, causing crop damage and potential negative impacts on wildlife. Only Spain and Great Britain have regulations to control monk parakeets, thus fast growth and spread of populations are likely to occur on a wide scale. The aims of this research are to update information on the distribution and population size of monk parakeets in Europe, assess whether differences in population growth or spread rate exist between populations, and provide recommendations to decision‐makers.

RESULTS

Our study estimates that there are 23 758 monk parakeets in the wild, across 179 municipalities in eight European Union (EU) countries; 84% of these municipalities hold between 1 and 100 monk parakeets. All countries with a representative historical record are experiencing exponential growth of monk parakeets. Mediterranean countries are experiencing higher exponential growth, spread rate and faster colonization of new municipalities than Atlantic countries.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend that EU Mediterranean countries consider declaration of the monk parakeet as invasive alien species of regional concern, and develop coordinated efforts to monitor and manage the species, taking advantage of the low population sizes in most municipalities. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Field evaluation of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sprayer: effect of spray volume on deposition and the control of pests and disease in wheat
Authors: Wang Guobin , Lan Yubin , Qi Haixia , Chen Pengchao , Hewitt Andrew , Han Yuxing
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are a recently developed aerial spraying technology. However, the effect of spray volume variation on deposition and pesticide control efficacy is unknown. The effect of three UAV spray volumes (9.0, 16.8 and 28.1 L ha−1) using three different nozzle sizes on droplet deposition and wheat aphid and powdery mildew control efficacy was assessed. An electric air‐pressure knapsack (EAP) sprayer was used as a comparison.

RESULTS

Different spray volumes significantly influenced the deposition and control efficacy of the UAV and EAP. For the UAV, a low spray volume of 9.0 L ha−1 with a fine nozzle (nozzle LU120‐01) resulted in lower deposition and control efficacy. Optimal control efficacy was achieved with coarser nozzles (nozzles LU120‐02, ‐03) at > 16.8 L ha−1 volume with systemic insecticide, and at 28.1 L ha−1 with contact insecticide and fungicide. For EAP, a high spray volume led to run‐off, and a spray volume of 225 L ha−1 achieved better deposition and control efficacy.

CONCLUSION

The UAV had comparable deposition and efficacy control to the EAP at a higher spray volume (> 16.8 L ha−1) with coarse nozzles, but exhibited inferior deposition and efficacy control at a lower spray volume (<9.0 L ha−1) with fine nozzles. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Norway and black rats in Europe: potential reservoirs for zoonotic arthropod‐borne pathogens?
Authors: Obiegala Anna , Heuser Elisa , Ryll René , Imholt Christian , Fürst Johanna , Prautsch Lisa‐Marie , Plenge‐Bönig Anita , Ulrich Rainer G , Pfeffer Martin
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND

Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus) and black rats (R. rattus) are known to be cosmopolitan reservoirs for zoonotic agents. Nevertheless, little is known about prevalence and distribution of arthropod‐borne pathogens in rats from Europe. Therefore, this survey focused on the detection of arthropod‐borne pathogens. Spleen‐derived DNA samples were available from 528 Norway rats and 74 black rats collected in several European countries. Further, these samples were processed by polymerase chain reaction for the detection of zoonotic pathogens such as Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis (CNM), Babesia spp. and Bartonella spp. eventually followed by sequencing.

RESULTS

Babesia spp. was not detected. Four Norway rat samples were positive for A. phagocytophilum DNA and two for CNM. In 50 rat samples, Bartonella spp. DNA was detected (8.1%; 95% Confidence interval (CI) 6.2–10.61). Whereas B. tribocorum (n = 45) and B. grahamii (n = 1) were carried exclusively in Norway rats from Central Europe (Belgium, Germany), B. coopersplainsensis (n = 4) was detected only in black rats from southern European countries (Spain, Italy).

CONCLUSIONS

Pathogenic Bartonella spp. DNA was found in black and Norway rats from Germany, Italy, Spain and Belgium for the first time. Bartonellae were found focally in zoos suggesting Norway rats as a possible reservoir for B. tribocorum and black rats as a reservoir for B. coopersplainsensis in Europe. These findings should raise awareness of pathogenic Bartonella spp. in Norway rats, especially in terms of pest management control in zoos. Norway and black rats seem not to be predominantly involved in the life cycle of the other examined arthropod‐borne pathogens in Europe. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
On computing the reliability of opportunistic multihop networks with Mobile relays
Authors: Khanna Gaurav , Chaturvedi S.K. , Soh Sieteng
Published: January 2019

Opportunistic multihop networks with mobile relays recently have drawn much attention from researchers across the globe due to their wide applications in various challenging environments. However, because of their peculiar intrinsic features like lack of continuous connectivity, network partitioning, highly dynamic behavior, and long delays, it is very arduous to model and effectively capture the temporal variations of such networks with the help of classical graph models. In this work, we utilize an evolving graph to model the dynamic network and propose a matrix‐based algorithm to generate all minimal path sets between every node pair of such network. We show that these time‐stamped‐minimal‐path sets (TS‐MPS) between each given source‐destination node pair can be used, by utilizing the well‐known Sum‐of‐Disjoint Products technique, to generate various reliability metrics of dynamic networks, ie, two‐terminal reliability of dynamic network and its related metrics, ie, two‐terminal reliabilities of the foremost, shortest, and fastest TS‐MPS, and Expected Hop Count. We also introduce and compute a new network performance metric−Expected Slot Count. We use two illustrative examples of dynamic networks, one of four nodes, and the other of five nodes, to show the salient features of our technique to generate TS‐MPS and reliability metrics.
Toward understanding the ionization mechanism of matrix‐assisted ionization using mass spectrometry experiment and theory
Authors: Lee Chuping , Inutan Ellen D. , Chen Jien Lian , Mukeku Mutanu M. , Weidner Steffen M. , Trimpin Sarah , Ni Chi‐Kung
Published: January 2019

Rationale

Matrix‐assisted ionization (MAI) mass spectrometry does not require voltages, a laser beam, or added heat to initiate ionization, but it is strongly dependent on the choice of matrix and the vacuum conditions. High charge state distributions of nonvolatile analyte ions produced by MAI suggest that the ionization mechanism may be similar to that of electrospray ionization (ESI), but different from matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI). While significant information is available for MAI using mass spectrometers operating at atmospheric and intermediate pressure, little is known about the mechanism at high vacuum.

Methods

Eleven MAI matrices were studied on a high‐vacuum time‐of‐flight (TOF) mass spectrometer using a 266 nm pulsed laser beam under otherwise typical MALDI conditions. Detailed comparisons with the commonly used MALDI matrices and theoretical prediction were made for 3‐nitrobenzonitrile (3‐NBN), which is the only MAI matrix that works well in high vacuum when irradiated with a laser.

Results

Screening of MAI matrices with good absorption at 266 nm but with various degrees of volatility and laser energies suggests that volatility and absorption at the laser wavelength may be necessary, but not sufficient, criteria to explain the formation of multiply charged analyte ions. 3‐NBN produces intact, highly charged ions of nonvolatile analytes in high‐vacuum TOF with the use of a laser, demonstrating that ESI‐like ions can be produced in high vacuum. Theoretical calculations and mass spectra suggest that thermally induced proton transfer, which is the major ionization mechanism in MALDI, is not important with the 3‐NBN matrix at 266 nm laser wavelength. 3‐NBN:analyte crystal morphology is, however, important in ion generation in high vacuum.

Conclusions

The 3‐NBN MAI matrix produces intact, highly charged ions of nonvolatile compounds in high‐vacuum TOF mass spectrometers with the aid of ablation and/or heating by laser irradiation, and shows a different ionization mechanism from that of typical MALDI matrices.
White Matter Tract Changes Associated with Clinical Improvement in an Open-Label Trial Assessing Autologous Umbilical Cord Blood for Treatment of Young Children with Autism
Authors: Carpenter Kimberly L. H. , Major Samantha , Tallman Catherine , Chen Lyon W. , Franz Lauren , Sun Jessica , Kurtzberg Joanne , Song Allen , Dawson Geraldine
Published: January 2019

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by social communication deficits and the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. We have previously reported significant improvements in behavior, including increased social functioning, improved communication abilities, and decreased clinical symptoms in children with ASD, following treatment with a single infusion of autologous cord blood in a phase I open-label trial. In the current study, we aimed to understand whether these improvements were associated with concurrent changes in brain structural connectivity. Twenty-five 2- to 6-year-old children with ASD participated in this trial. Clinical outcome measures included the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-II Socialization Subscale, Expressive One-Word Picture Vocabulary Test-4, and the Clinical Global Impression-Improvement Scale. Structural connectivity was measured at baseline and at 6 months in a subset of 19 children with 25-direction diffusion tensor imaging and deterministic tractography. Behavioral improvements were associated with increased white matter connectivity in frontal, temporal, and subcortical regions (hippocampus and basal ganglia) that have been previously shown to show anatomical, connectivity, and functional abnormalities in ASD. The current results suggest that improvements in social communication skills and a reduction in symptoms in children with ASD following treatment with autologous cord blood infusion were associated with increased structural connectivity in brain networks supporting social, communication, and language abilities. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:138&10
Tubular 3D Resistive Random Access Memory Based on Rolled‐Up h‐BN Tube
Authors: Hou Xiang , Pan Ruobing , Yu Qiang , Zhang Kai , Huang Gaoshan , Mei Yongfeng , Zhang David Wei , Zhou Peng
Published: January 2019

Due to their advantages compared with planar structures, rolled‐up tubes have been applied in many fields, such as field‐effect transistors, compact capacitors, inductors, and integrative sensors. On the other hand, because of its perfect insulating nature, ultrahigh mechanical strength and atomic thickness property, 2D hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) is a very suitable material for rolled‐up memory applications. In this work, a tubular 3D resistive random access memory (RRAM) device based on rolled‐up h‐BN tube is realized, which is achieved by self‐rolled‐up technology. The tubular RRAM device exhibits bipolar resistive switching behavior, nonvolatile data storage ability, and satisfactorily low programming current compared with other 2D material‐based RRAM devices. Moreover, by releasing from the substrate, the footprint area of the tubular device is reduced by six times. This tubular RRAM device has great potential for increasing the data storage density, lowering the power consumption, and may be applied in the fields of rolled‐up systems and sensing‐storage integration.
Multimodal mobile keystroke dynamics biometrics combining fixed and variable passwords
Authors: Alshanketi Faisal , Traoré Issa , Awad Ahmed
Published: January 2019

Recent works have demonstrated the possibility to craft successful statistical attacks against keystroke dynamic biometric password. Those attacks leverage the possibility to capture several keystroke dynamics samples for a given password string, and then extract and use their distributional properties to craft the attack. These approaches are by design more likely to be successful when launched against fixed passwords, as several samples of the passwords can be captured through successive login sessions. Although the dynamics obtained from specific keys or key sequences for consecutive passwords slightly vary, by definition the distributional properties remain fairly stable for the same user. One way to thwart such that attack to use a variable password, also know as one‐time password (OTP). However, the fact that the keystroke dynamic OTP is different from one session to the other, makes it extremely difficult to reconstruct a valid biometric profile for a user. Modeling accurate keystroke dynamic OTP is challenging, due to the underlying variability and the sparse amount of information involved. We tackle the aformentioned challenge by presenting, in this paper, by presenting a multimodal approach tat combines fixed and variable keystroke dynamic biometric passwords. We investigate two different fusion models and evaluate our approach using a data set involving 100 different users, yielding encouraging performance results in terms of accuracy and resistance against statistical attacks.
Chronic exposure to low doses of Pb induces hepatotoxicity at the physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic levels of mice
Authors: Luo Ting , Shen Manlu , Zhou Jiajie , Wang Xiaoyu , Xia Jizhou , Fu Zhengwei , Jin Yuanxiang
Published: January 2019

Lead (Pb), a non‐essential heavy metal, is a major global environmental contaminant with serious toxicological consequences. In the present study, the effects on hepatotoxicity of mice with chronic exposure to low doses of Pb were evaluated. While oral exposure to 0.03 or 0.1 mg/L Pb for 15 weeks in male adult mice had no significant effect on body weights, Pb exposure resulted in liver histopathological effects and increase of hepatic activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). In addition, hepatic reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) significantly accumulated after treatment. Conversely, glutathione (GSH) decreased significantly in both 0.03 and 0.1 mg/L Pb‐treated groups. Moreover, the hepatic activities of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD) and catalase (CAT) increased significantly following treatment with 0.1 mg/L Pb for 15 weeks, concomitant with increases in transcriptions of hepatic Sod, Cat, and Gpx. Furthermore, transcriptions of hepatic metallothionein (MT), zinc transporter 5 (Znt5) and copper transporter 1 (Ctr1), and subsequent protein levels were also increased in liver of mice when exposed to 0.1 mg/L Pb for 15 weeks. In addition, the transcriptome data showed that Pb has substantial influence on several pathways, including PPAR signaling pathways, AMPK signaling pathways, fatty acid metabolism, and drug metabolism. Our data suggested that chronic Pb exposure could induce hepatotoxicity at the physiological, biochemical, and transcriptomic levels in mice.
Efficient copper removal from wastewater through montmorillonite‐supported hydrogel adsorbent
Authors: Vesali‐Naseh Masoud , Barati Aboulfazl , Vesali Naseh Mohammad Reza
Published: January 2019

A hybrid hydrogel based on acrylic acid monomer/wheat bran, supported by montmorillonite, was synthesized using in situ polymerization and utilized as an adsorbent to remove Cu (II) ions from an aqueous solution at batch condition. The structural and morphological microanalysis of adsorbents was carried out by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray powder diffraction techniques. The type of water diffusion into the adsorbents was Fickian, and the swelling process has followed Schott's second‐order kinetic model. The optimum adsorption conditions were the initial Cu (II) concentration 100 mg/l, pH 7.0, and montmorillonite dosage of 3.0 wt.%. The equilibrium time for the process was determined as 2 hr. The equilibrium data showed close fitting to the linear form of Langmuir isotherm model. Moreover, the maximum adsorption capacity has been determined to be 17.64 mg/g. Hence, montmorillonite‐supported hydrogel adsorbent seems to be a promising adsorbent for the copper removal from industrial wastewaters.

Practitioner points

A hydrogel adsorbent based on acrylic acid monomer/wheat bran, supported by montmorillonite was synthesized.

The adsorbent was efficiently utilized for copper removal from aqueous solutions.

The maximum adsorption capacity has been determined to be 17.64 mg/g.
Digestive physiology of captive capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)
Authors: Kiani Ali , Clauss Marcus , Ortmann Sylvia , Vendl Catharina , Congdon Elizabeth R. , Herrera Emilio A. , Kreuzer Michael , Schwarm Angela
Published: January 2019

The capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris), the largest living rodent, probably has a “mucus‐trap” colonic separation mechanism. To test this hypothesis, we measured the mean retention time of a solute marker (MRTSolute), 2 mm (MRT2 mm), 10 mm (MRT10 mm), and 20 mm (MRT20 mm) particle markers and nutrient digestibility in adult captive capybaras (27–52 kg body mass (BM), 2–11 yr). In addition, total gut fill and the selectivity factor (MRTSolute/MRT2 mm) were calculated, and mean faecal particle size and metabolic fecal nitrogen of captive capybaras were compared to those of free‐ranging specimens. Finally, we also measured methane production in one animal. The MRT2 mm (29.2 ± 8.2 hr) was different (p < 0.01) from MRTSolute (37.0 ± 13.1 hr), MRT10 mm (36.5 ± 8.2 hr), and MRT20 mm (35.1 ± 9.6 hr). The selectivity factor (1.26 ± 0.30) was in the range considered typical for a “mucus‐trap” colonic separation mechanism. The estimated total gut fill was 1.50 ± 0.37% and 1.73 ± 0.25% of BM calculated from the results of the 2‐mm and 10‐mm particle markers, respectively. The CH4 emission was 13.7 L/day. Captive capybaras had greater mean fecal particle size (0.44 ± 0.06 vs. 0.29 ± 0.05 mm, p < 0.001) and metabolic fecal nitrogen (65.5 ± 3.91 vs. 46.8 ± 10.5% of fecal nitrogen, p < 0.001) than free‐ranging capybaras. Organic matter digestibility decreased less steeply with increasing dietary crude fiber content in capybaras as compared to published data from rabbits or guinea pigs. Accordingly, the digestive physiology of the capybara is characterized by a comparatively high fiber digestibility, with a “mucus‐trap” colonic separation mechanism, allowing capybaras to thrive on forage‐only diets.
Lifting of D1-D5-P states
Authors: Hampton Shaun , Mathur Samir D. , Zadeh Ida G.
Published: January 2019

Abstract

We consider states of the D1-D5 CFT where only the left-moving sector is excited. As we deform away from the orbifold point, some of these states will remain BPS while others can ‘lift’. We compute this lifting for a particular family of D1-D5-P states, at second order in the deformation off the orbifold point. We note that the maximally twisted sector of the CFT is special: the covering surface appearing in the correlator can only be genus one while for other sectors there is always a genus zero contribution. We use the results to argue that fuzzball configurations should be studied for the full class including both extremal and near-extremal states; many extremal configurations may be best seen as special limits of near extremal configurations.
Novel transcatheter arterial embolization method for hemodynamically unstable pelvic fractures to prevent complications of gluteal necrosis
Authors: Maruhashi Takaaki , Kashimi Fumie , Kotoh Rika , Kasahara Shun , Minehara Hiroaki , Kataoka Yuichi , Nishimaki Hiroshi , Asari Yasushi
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To validate our previously designed transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) technique for bilateral iliac arteries in unstable pelvic fractures, which is designed to also prevent gluteal necrosis and avoid vasopressors.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients with pelvic fractures who underwent our new TAE procedure to determine the incidence of subsequent gluteal necrosis. We also compared certain variables between patients who underwent TAE before 2005 using a different technique and developed gluteal necrosis and patients who underwent TAE in 2005 and onward using our technique. Gluteal necrosis was confirmed by a radiologist based on imaging findings.

Results

Seventy patients with pelvic fractures who underwent our TAE technique met the inclusion criteria (bilateral iliac arterial embolization and no embolic agent other than a gelatin sponge). Patients’ median age was 47.5 years, 33 were male, and 92.9% (65/70) had unstable fractures. Sixty-eight patients had severe multiple trauma. No patients developed gluteal necrosis following our TAE procedure and the overall survival rate was 82.9% (58/70). We found no statistically significant difference in procedure time between the previous and new technique, although the new procedure tended to be shorter. Furthermore, overall survival did not significantly differ between the groups. Multiple regression analysis revealed that TAE procedure time and external pelvic fracture fixation were independently related to gluteal necrosis.

Conclusions

Our non-selective bilateral iliac arterial embolization procedure involves arresting shock quickly, resulting in no post-procedure gluteal necrosis. The procedure involves cutting the gelatin sponge rather than “pumping” and avoids the use of vasopressors.
Enhanced N-acetyl-d-neuraminic production from glycerol and N-acetyl-d-glucosamine by metabolically engineered Escherichia coli with a two-stage pH-shift control strategy
Authors: Zhu De-qiang , Wu Jian-rong , Zhan Xiao-bei , Zhu Li , Jiang Yun
Published: January 2019

Typical N-acetyl-d-neuraminic acid (Neu5Ac) production uses N-acetyl-d-glucosamine (GlcNAc) and excess pyruvate as substrates in the enzymatic or whole-cell biocatalysis process. In a previous study, a Neu5Ac-producing biocatalytic process via engineered Escherichia coli SA-05/pDTrc-AB/pCDF-pck-ppsA was constructed without exogenous pyruvate. In this study, glycerol was found to be a good energy source compared with glucose for the catalytic system with resting cells, and Neu5Ac production increased to 13.97 ± 0.27 g L−1. In addition, a two-stage pH shift strategy was carried out, and the Neu5Ac yield was improved to 14.61 ± 0.31 g L−1. The GlcNAc concentration for Neu5Ac production was optimized. Finally, an integrated strategy was developed for Neu5Ac production, and the Neu5Ac yield reached as high as 18.17 ± 0.27 g L−1. These results provide a new biocatalysis technology for Neu5Ac production without exogenous pyruvate.
Multi-allelic QTL analysis of protein content in a bi-parental population of cultivated tetraploid potato
Authors: Klaassen Michiel T. , Bourke Peter M. , Maliepaard Chris , Trindade Luisa M.
Published: January 2019

Protein content is a key quality trait for the potato starch industry. The objective of this study was to identify allele-specific quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for tuber protein content in cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) at the tetraploid level. We analysed 496 full-sib F1clones in a 3-year field trial to dissect the complex genetic architecture of soluble tuber protein content. Genotypic data from a 60K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array was used for SNP dosage scoring, constructing homologue specific linkage maps and assembly of a dense integrated chromosomal linkage map. From the integrated map, probabilistic multi-locus identity-by-descent (IBD) haplotypes (alleles) were estimated and used to detect associations between the IBD haplotypes and the phenotypic trait values. Moderate levels of trait heritability were estimated between 40 and 74% that correspond with previous studies. Our contemporary naive analysis identified potential additive QTLs on chromosomes2,3,5(top arm) and9across the years. Moreover, cofactor QTL analysis identified two masked QTLs on chromosomes1and5(lower arm). The QTLs on chromosomes2,5(lower arm) and9are reported here for the first time. The QTLs that we identified on chromosomes1,3and5(top arm) show overlap with previous studies for protein content in potato. Collectively the naive QTLs explained 12 to 17% of the phenotypic variance. The underlying alleles of the QTLs provided both positive and negative effects on the phenotype. Our work uncovers the complex genetic architecture of this trait and describes potential breeding strategies for improvement. As protein has emerged as a high-value component from industrial potato starch production, the dissection of the genetic architecture and subsequent improvement of this trait by breeding has great economic and environmental relevance.
Radiographic Musculoskeletal Findings Indicating Opioid Misuse: An Overview for Orthopedic Surgeons
Authors: Greditzer Harry G. , Massel Dustin H. , Barrera Carlos M. , Emerson Christopher P. , Rizzo Michael G. , Ezuddin Nisreen , Brasil Camila , Nuno Ane Ugarte , Jose Jean
Published: January 2019

Background

Given the high prevalence of musculoskeletal conditions in the USA, it is important for orthopedic surgeons to promptly identify patients who may be at risk for opioid misuse.

Questions/Purposes

The aim of this literature review was to elucidate various musculoskeletal pathologies and complications, as seen on imaging, that may indicate opioid misuse or opioid use disorder.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases for articles related to imaging findings associated with chronic opioid use or misuse in orthopedic patients. Two independent reviewers conducted the search utilizing pertinent Boolean operations.

Results

We reviewed 36 full-text articles and categorized the radiographic evidence of opioid misuse as follows: soft-tissue radiologic findings, cellulitis, necrotizing fasciitis, abscess formation, retained needles, discitis, myopathy and rhabdomyolysis, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, and septic thrombophlebitis.

Conclusion

Knowledge of the radiologic findings of opioid misuse will assist orthopedic surgeons in making timely diagnoses that may alter therapeutic regimens for their patients.
Complement protein levels in plasma astrocyte‐derived exosomes are abnormal in conversion from mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease dementia
Authors: Winston Charisse N. , Goetzl Edward J. , Schwartz Janice B. , Elahi Fanny M. , Rissman Robert A.
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Levels of complement proteins (CPs) in plasma astrocyte‐derived exosomes (ADEs) that are abnormal in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have not been assessed in mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Participants (n = 20 per group) had either MCI converting to dementia within 3 years (MCIC), MCI remaining stable over 3 years (MCIS), Alzheimer's disease, or were controls. CPs of ADEs isolated from plasmas by anti‐human glutamine aspartate transporter antibody absorption were quantified by ELISAs.

Results

ADE levels of C1q and C4b of the classical pathway, factor D and fragment Bb of the alternative pathway, and C5b, C3b, and C5b‐C9 of both pathways were significantly higher in patients with MCIC than those with MCIS. ADE levels of inhibitory CPs decay‐accelerating factor, CD46, CD59, and type 1 complement receptor were significantly lower in patients with MCIC than those with MCIS.

Discussion

ADE CPs are components of neurotoxic neuroinflammation that may be predictive biomarkers of MCI conversion to Alzheimer's disease.
Imazamox Absorption, Translocation, and Metabolism by Cereal Rye (Secale cereale) at Low Temperatures
Authors: Ostlie Michael H. , Shaner Dale , Bridges Melissa , Westra Phillip
Published: January 2019

Cereal rye (Secale cerealeL.) control in wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) can be difficult with existing selective herbicides. High phenotypic diversity within populations coupled with suboptimal herbicide application conditions leads to varying degrees of control with herbicide treatments. The following research focused on the consequence of low temperature on imazamox fate inS. cereale. A greenhouse study was conducted to determine the number of warm-temperature days required for imazamox to controlS. cereale. Absorption, translocation, and metabolism of imazamox was evaluated under warm (22/18C) and cold (4/4C) temperatures to identify changes to the fate of imazamox under different environmental conditions. In greenhouse conditions, more than 5 d of warm temperature following herbicide application was required to achieve 80%S. cerealemortality. Absorption of imazamox was reduced 20% whenS. cerealewas subjected to cold compared with warm temperatures. Only 10% of applied imazamox was moved from the treated leaf in continuous cool temperatures compared with greater than 60% in warm conditions. In cold conditions, imazamox content increased in all tested plant parts evaluated for the duration of the study, whereas in warm conditions, imazamox concentrations decreased in root and crown tissues after 3 d. Imazamox behavior was affected more by temperature thanS. cerealegrowth stage.Secale cerealemetabolism of imazamox was reduced, but not stopped in cold temperatures. After 6 d, only a 10% difference in intact imazamox remained between temperature treatments. In cold temperatures, reduced absorption and translocation, coupled with continued metabolism, allow plants to recover from an otherwise lethal imazamox treatment.
Sexuelle Funktionsstörungen in der medizinischen Grundversorgung
Authors: Gürtler Martin A. , Brunner Patrick , Dürsteler-MacFarland Kenneth M. , Wiesbeck Gerhard A.
Published: January 2019

Zusammenfassung. In der medizinischen Grundversorgung werden sexuelle Funktionsstörungen meistens nur ungenügend erfasst. Gleichzeitig sind diese Störungen relativ verbreitet und bleiben auch häufig unbehandelt. Diese Studie untersuchte die sexuellen Funktionsstörungen und deren Beeinflussung durch den Lebensstil bei Patienten einer Hausarztpraxis (HP). Methodik: Eine Stichprobe von Patienten einer HP wurde mittels validierter Fragebogen zu ihrer Sexualität, ihrer psychosozialen Situation und ihrem Lebensstil befragt. Resultate: Die Stichprobe umfasste 30 Frauen und 37 Männer. Von ihnen haben ca. zwei Drittel noch nie mit einem Arzt über ihr Sexualleben gesprochen und mehr als vier Fünftel wurden auch noch nie von ärztlicher Seite darauf angesprochen. Bei 75 % der Stichprobe fanden sich keine Hinweise auf sexuelle Funktionsstörungen. Männer mit auf sexuelle Funktionsstörungen hinweisenden Fragebogenwerten wiesen eine signifikant höhere psychische Belastung auf als jene mit unauffälligen Werten. Schlussfolgerung: Trotz einer unauffälligen Anamnese bezüglich Risikofaktoren von sexuellen Funktionsstörungen fanden sich in der untersuchten Stichprobe bei rund einem Viertel Hinweise für sexuelle Funktionsstörungen. Eine unauffällige Anamnese in den Bereichen Alkohol-/Tabakkonsum und Depressivität macht eine gezielte Befragung nach sexuellen Funktionsstörungen nicht überflüssig. Speziell bei Männern sollte eine akute psychische Belastung ein ausreichender Anlass sein, das Thema Sexualität anzusprechen und bei Bedarf zu vertiefen.
Paleomagnetic Constraints on the Origin and Drift History of the North Qiangtang Terrane in the Late Paleozoic
Authors: Ma Yiming , Wang Qiang , Wang Jun , Yang Tianshui , Tan Xiaodong , Dan Wei , Zhang Xiuzheng , Ma Lin , Wang Zilong , Hu Wanlong , Zhang Shihong , Wu Huaichun , Li Haiyan , Cao Liwan
Published: January 2019

To better constrain the origin and drift history of the North Qiangtang terrane (NQT), we report a well‐dated paleomagnetic pole from the Late Permian volcanics of the NQT that appears to average out secular variation. Our new results yield a paleolatitude of −7.6 ± 5.6°N at ~259 Ma for our sampling area, which confirms the NQT drifted northward during the Permian and Triassic periods. The equatorial paleolatitude of the NQT is similar to that of the coeval South China block, demonstrating that they were in close proximity. Combined with palaeontological and magmatic evidence, paleomagnetic constraints on the drift of the NQT in the Permian indicate that the NQT moved northward together with the South China block at this time. The paleolatitude evolution of the NQT implies that the NQT rifted from the northern margin of the Gondwana in the Devonian, which is earlier than the departure time of the South Qiangtang terrane.