bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broad scale assessment of key drivers of streamflow generation in urban and urbanizing rivers
Authors: Ariano Sarah S. , Oswald Claire J.
Published: April 2022

Urbanization is characterized by increased impervious cover, artificial drainage via sewers, soil compaction, and vegetation removal, which fundamentally alters how water moves across landscapes. Less rainwater and snowmelt infiltrate the subsurface and stream responses to precipitation are faster and larger compared to natural environments. While the impacts of catchment imperviousness on hydrologic processes have been widely investigated, the relationship between stream hydrologic response and infrastructure‐mediated hydrologic connectivity across a wide range of urban watersheds has not. This study examines the relative magnitude of control that catchment characteristics, total impervious area (TIA), and sewer‐corrected TIA have on broad‐scale spatial variability in hydrologic response. Sewer‐corrected TIA accounts for inter‐catchment water transfer via storm and/or combined sewer pipes and is feasible to estimate at the watershed‐scale using urban drainage asset data. Daily stream discharge data were used to calculate the Richards‐Baker Flashiness Index for 96 watersheds located across southern Ontario, Canada. For a subset of watersheds (n = 39) with suitable stream discharge and rainfall data, watershed average event runoff ratio (RR) was calculated, and watersheds with spatial sewer network data (n = 24), were used to assess if sewer‐corrected TIA is a better predictor of hydrologic response than TIA. As expected, stream flashiness and RR increased linearly as a function of TIA and sewer‐corrected TIA, however, sewer‐corrected TIA did not explain any additional variability in the response variables. Likewise, the relative control of catchment characteristics on the spatial variability in streamflow generation were negligible. Despite sewer‐corrected TIA not improving our understanding of broad scale variation in runoff response, it could be a useful metric to consider when assessing inter‐event variability in runoff response of, heavily urbanized sub‐catchments for improved understanding of flooding and water quality.
L1CAM expression as a predictor of platinum response in high‐risk endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Romani Chiara , Capoferri Davide , Reijnen Casper , Lonardi Silvia , Ravaggi Antonella , Ratti Martina , Bugatti Mattia , Zanotti Laura , Tognon Germana , Sartori Enrico , Odicino Franco , Calza Stefano , Pijnenborg Johanna M. A. , Bignotti Eliana
Published: April 2022

For high‐risk endometrial cancer (EC) patients, adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended to improve outcome. Yet, predictive biomarkers for response to platinum‐based chemotherapy (Pt‐aCT) are currently lacking. We tested expression of L1 cell‐adhesion molecule (L1CAM), a well‐recognised marker of poor prognosis in EC, in tumour samples from high‐risk EC patients, to explore its role as a predictive marker of Pt‐aCT response. L1CAM expression was determined using RT‐qPCR and immunohistochemistry in a cohort of high‐risk EC patients treated with Pt‐aCT and validated in a multicentric independent cohort. The association between L1CAM and clinicopathologic features and L1CAM additive value in predicting platinum response were determined. The effect of L1CAM gene silencing on response to carboplatin was functionally tested on primary L1CAM‐expressing cells. Increased L1CAM expression at both genetic and protein level correlated with high‐grade, non‐endometrioid histology and poor response to platinum treatment. A predictive model adding L1CAM to prognostic clinical variables significantly improved platinum response prediction (C‐index 78.1%, P = .012). In multivariate survival analysis, L1CAM expression was significantly associated with poor outcome (HR: 2.03, P = .019), potentially through an indirect effect, mediated by its influence on response to chemotherapy. In vitro, inhibition of L1CAM significantly increased cell sensitivity to carboplatin, supporting a mechanistic link between L1CAM expression and response to platinum in EC cells. In conclusion, we have demonstrated the role of L1CAM in the prediction of response to Pt‐aCT in two independent cohorts of high‐risk EC patients. L1CAM is a promising candidate biomarker to optimise decision making in high‐risk patients who are eligible for Pt‐aCT.
Do corporate governance mechanisms and ESG disclosure drive CSR narrative tones?
Authors: Albitar Khaldoon , Abdoush Tony , Hussainey Khaled
Published: April 2022

This study explores the underlying drivers of the tone of corporate social responsibility (CSR) narratives by considering four corporate governance mechanisms and examining whether there is a relationship between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure and the CSR narrative tone based on a sample of UK firms from 2008 to 2017. The results show that more independent directors would lead to a less optimistic language (positive tone) and a more pessimistic language (negative tone) in the CSR report. The results also show that a higher ESG disclosure score leads to a more positive CSR narrative tone. However, gender diversity has a positive impact on the positivity of CSR tone when the ESG score is medium or high and when the board size exceeds 10 members. These findings are relevant for policymakers, investors, and firm managers. For instance, the findings inform regulators and policymakers about the relevant governance mechanisms that affect the tone of CSR reports.
Racial equity in opioid prescribing: A pharmacist‐led multidisciplinary health system assessment
Authors: Peppard William , Sheldon Holly , Endrizzi Sarah , Walker Rebekah , Kirchen Gwynne , Schrang Alexis , Nagavally Sneha , Egede Leonard
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Racial and ethnic inequity in pain management have been well documented in peer‐reviewed literature. A recent publication suggested inequity in opioid prescription rates for Black and White patients among 310 large and racially diverse health systems, including Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin (F&MCW). This prompted F&MCW to further investigate its own opioid prescription data. Pharmacists have led similar investigations to evaluate racial inequities in health care, and are well‐positioned to assess opioid prescribing.

Objective

To investigate opioid prescription inequity between Black and White patients treated by F&MCW.

Methods

The pain stewardship pharmacist led a multidisciplinary team to collect and analyze ambulatory opioid prescription data for fiscal year 2021. Primary outcomes included number of prescriptions, minimum morphine equivalent daily dose (MinMEDD), and maximum morphine equivalent daily dose (MaxMEDD). The primary independent variable was the reported race/ethnicity in the medical record. Linear regression models for each outcome were performed first unadjusted, and secondly adjusted for patient demographics, complexity, and comorbidities.

Results

A total of 122 738 prescriptions for 47 939 patients were analyzed. Using the unadjusted model, non‐Hispanic Black (NHB) patients had a significantly higher number of prescriptions compared with non‐Hispanic White patients (beta: 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52, 0.71; P < .001) as well as MinMEDD (beta: 3.33; 95% CI: 2.58, 4.08; P < .001) and MaxMEDD (beta: 2.32; 95% CI: 1.36, 3.28; P < .001). However, the degree of significance decreased for all measures in models adjusted for patient demographics and complexity, and significance was lost when adjusted for individual comorbidities.

Conclusion

Observed racial differences in unadjusted and partially adjusted analyses were primarily due to higher rates of key comorbidities in NHB patients. This analysis demonstrates the importance of adjusting for relevant confounding variables before drawing conclusions for differences in care between patient populations. Pharmacists can use their position and skill set to take a leading role in such assessments.
Performance evaluation of STANDARD Q COVID‐19 Ag home test for the diagnosis of COVID‐19 during early symptom onset
Authors: Shin Hyoshim , Lee Seungjun , Widyasari Kristin , Yi Jongyoun , Bae Eunsin , Kim Sunjoo
Published: April 2022

Background

Surveillance and control of SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak through gold standard detection, that is, real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), become a great obstacle, especially in overwhelming outbreaks. In this study, we aimed to analyze the performance of rapid antigen home test (RAHT) as an alternative detection method compared with RT‐PCR.

Methods

In total, 79 COVID‐19‐positive and 217 COVID‐19‐negative patients confirmed by RT‐PCR were enrolled in this study. A duration from symptom onset to COVID‐19 confirmation of <5 days was considered a recruiting criterion for COVID‐19‐positive cases. A nasal cavity specimen was collected for the RAHT, and a nasopharyngeal swab specimen was collected for RT‐PCR.

Results

Sensitivity of the STANDARD Q COVID‐19 Ag Home Test (SD Biosensor, Korea), compared with RT‐PCR, was 94.94% (75/79) (95% [confidence interval] CI, 87.54%–98.60%), and specificity was 100%. Sensitivity was significantly higher in symptomatic patients (98.00%) than in asymptomatic (89.66%) patients (p‐value = 0.03). There was no difference in sensitivity according to the duration of symptom onset to confirmation (100% for 0–2 days and 96.97% for 3–5 days, respectively) (p‐value = 1.00). The RAHT detected all 51 COVID‐19 patients whose Ct values were ≤25 (100%), whereas sensitivity was 73.33% (11/15) among patients with Ct values >25 (p‐value = 0.01).

Conclusion

The RAHT showed an excellent sensitivity for COVID‐19‐confirmed cases, especially for those with symptoms. There was a decrease in sensitivity when the Ct value is over 25, indicating that RAHT screening may be useful during the early phase of symptom onset, when the viral numbers are higher and it is more transmissible.
The role of educators, mentors, and motivation in shaping dental students to become life‐long learners: A pan‐Canadian survey
Authors: Khehra Anahat , Steinberg Noam , Levin Liran
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The core values taught in dental school will arguably stay with the student for their whole career. An instructor has the power to influence a student's education through guidance, mentorship, and encouragement. This influence could be the factor that determines whether a student will become a motivated practitioner. The aim of this study was to identify whether dental schools are providing motivation to students to excel in their career and to become life‐long learners.

Methods

A web‐based questionnaire was distributed electronically during 2020–2021 to Canadian dental students via email, social media, etc. The questionnaire included questions on demographics, the dental school environment, instructor evaluation, and dental student perspectives on education.

Results

Of the 318 participants, 95.7% indicated their school follows a pass/fail system in some to all courses. Note that 61.2% found didactic components were weighted more heavily than clinical components. A greater number of participants found that their clinical instructors were more invested than their didactic instructors, in seeing their students become successful (53.0%) and excellent (44.6%) in their future careers. A total of 84.7% have not found a mentor, and 76% are not interested. Most participants indicated they are “moderately” motivated by their instructors to take continuing education courses (41.3%) and “not at all” motivated to continue their studies in a hospital (42.1%) or speciality residency program (56.3%).

Conclusions

Instructors, educators, and mentors play a vital role in shaping dental student motivation in didactic and clinical courses, and beyond the school environment. Teaching institutions should incorporate opportunities for mentorship and student feedback to improve the delivery of dental education. Further studies may include assessing the role of mentorship at dental schools.
First‐line treatment of stage IIB to stage IV classical Hodgkin lymphoma in Italy, Israel, and Spain: Patient characteristics, treatment patterns, and clinical outcomes
Authors: Avigdor Abraham , Trinchese Fabrizio , Gavini Francois , Bent‐Ennakhil Nawal , Dalal Mehul , Zomas Athanasios , Gettner Broun Sharmeen , Gini Guido
Published: April 2022

Classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is curable in 90% of cases, but advanced stage patients who do not respond well to first‐line (1L) therapy have poorer outcomes. This retrospective study examines patient characteristics, treatment patterns, clinical outcomes, and safety management of 1L cHL therapies in common clinical practice in Italy (IT), Israel (IL), and Spain (SP). The overall sample (n = 256) included patients with stage IIb to IV cHL, of which 86.3% received ABVD as 1L therapy (n = 221). Clinical outcomes were similar for the overall population and ABVD subsample: complete response (CR) in 75% and 76.5%; 30‐month (30‐mo) survival (OS) of 92.5% and 93.6%; and 30‐mo progression‐free survival (PFS) of 70.7% and 72.6%. Thirty‐month PFS was significantly lower for patients ≥ 60 years and/or with high (4–7) IPS. Treatment‐induced pulmonary and cardiac toxicities, and febrile neutropenia occurred, respectively, in 10%, 2.3%, and 6.8% of ABVD‐treated patients. Interim PET or PET‐CT scans were performed after two cycles of 1L therapy (PET2) for 70.3% and 66.6% of the overall and ABVD cohorts, respectively. PET2 positive rates were nearly 30% (49/173), yet PET‐adapted strategy of dose modification only occurred in a small fraction of patients.
Identification of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant using spike gene target failure and genotyping assays, Gauteng, South Africa, 2021
Authors: Subramoney Kathleen , Mtileni Nkhensani , Bharuthram Avani , Davis Ashlyn , Kalenga Beauty , Rikhotso Mikateko , Maphahlele Mpho , Giandhari Jennifer , Naidoo Yeshnee , Pillay Sureshnee , Ramphal Upasana , Ramphal Yajna , Tegally Houriiyah , Wilkinson Eduan , Mohale Thabo , Ismail Arshad , Mashishi Bonolo , Mbenenge Nonhlanhla , de Oliveira Tulio , Makatini Zinhle , Fielding Burtram C. , Treurnicht Florette K. ,   Network for Genomics Surveillance in South Africa
Published: April 2022

The circulation of Omicron BA.1 led to the rapid increase in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) cases in South Africa in November 2021, which warranted the use of more rapid detection methods. We, therefore, assessed the ability to detect Omicron BA.1 using genotyping assays to identify specific mutations in SARS‐CoV‐2 positive samples, Gauteng province, South Africa. The TaqPath™ COVID‐19 real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay was performed on all samples selected to identify spike gene target failure (SGTF). SARS‐CoV‐2 genotyping assays were used for the detection of del69/70 and K417N mutation. Whole‐genome sequencing was performed on a subset of genotyped samples to confirm these findings. Of the positive samples received, 11.0% (175/1589) were randomly selected to assess if SGTF and genotyping assays, that detect del69/70 and K417N mutations, could identify Omicron BA.1. We identified SGTF in 98.9% (173/175) of samples, of which 88.0% (154/175) had both the del69/70 and K417N mutation. The genotyped samples (45.7%; 80/175) that were sequenced confirmed Omicron BA.1 (97.5%; 78/80). Our data show that genotyping for the detection of the del69/70 and K417N coupled with SGTF is efficient to exclude Alpha and Beta variants and rapidly detect Omicron BA.1. However, we still require assays for the detection of unique mutations that will allow for the differentiation between other Omicron sublineages. Therefore, the use of genotyping assays to detect new dominant or emerging lineages of SARS‐CoV‐2 will be beneficial in limited‐resource settings.
Possible relationship between heatwaves in Korea and the summer blocking frequency in the Sea of Okhotsk
Authors: Choi Jae‐Won , Song Chan‐Yeong , Kim Eung‐Sup , Ahn Joong‐Bae
Published: April 2022

This study examined the relationship between heatwaves in Korea and blocking in the Sea of Okhotsk (OK) region, which significantly influences the Korean climate in summer. According to the analysis, negative correlations were observed between the blocking frequency in the OK region and heatwave days (HWD) and the surface air temperature (SAT) in Korea over the past four decades (1979–2018). These negative correlations suggest that when the blocking frequency in the OK region increases in summer, the HWD and SAT decrease in Korea. This study selected 10 years of high blocking frequency years (high BF years) and 10 years of low blocking frequency years (low BF years) and analysed the differences between the two groups to explain the negative relationship between the HWD in Korea and the blocking frequency in the OK region. The difference between the two groups revealed strong anomalous anticyclonic and cyclonic circulations that developed in the north Siberia region and northeast Australia (NEA), respectively, throughout all layers in the troposphere. The large anomalous anticyclonic pattern in the North Siberia region was related to the blocking high, while the anomalous cyclonic pattern that developed in NEA was related to the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) front. The difference in the sea surface temperature (SST) between the two groups was also analysed. In the North Atlantic Ocean, a tripole structure appeared with a cold anomaly in the high latitudes, a warm anomaly in the mid‐latitudes and a cold anomaly again in the low latitudes, which is a typical spatial distribution of the SST anomaly related to the positive North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) phase.
Assessing Creativity in Secondary Schools: A Focus on the Impact of an Arts‐based Intervention
Authors: Briguglio Marie , Baldacchino Leonie , Mangion Margaret
Published: April 2022

As programs aimed at fostering creativity in educational settings become more widespread, assessing their impact becomes increasingly important. This article responds to calls for evidence‐based policy in this field by assessing the impact on creativity of a government‐funded arts‐based educational program in Malta (European Union). A quasi‐experimental design was adopted and data was collected pre‐ and post‐intervention from a test group and a control group of students across nine secondary schools (n = 400 pre‐intervention and n = 259 post‐intervention). Students undertook a total of four Divergent Thinking tests, which culminated in indices comprising ideational fluency, flexibility, originality, novelty, relevance, and elaboration. Ordinary Least Squares models of creativity were estimated revealing a strong positive association between creativity scores and participation in the program. Difference‐in‐Differences analyzes with matched pre‐ and post‐intervention responses (n = 380), further confirmed that participation in the program positively impacts creativity scores, particularly among students who did not self‐select into the project and who had low prior exposure to creative experiences. We also observe an overall decline in creativity between the start and end of the scholastic year. These results suggest that arts‐based programs can be effective in enhancing (at worst, preserving) students’ creativity.
Does the accretion of carbon fractions and their stratification vary widely with soil orders? A case‐study of an Alfisol and an Entisol of sub‐tropical eastern India
Authors: Rakesh S. , Sinha Abhas Kumar , Juttu Ravinder , Sarkar Deepranjan , Jogula Kamalakar , Reddy Sharan Bhoopal , Raju Bairi , Danish Subhan , Datta Rahul
Published: April 2022

Comparison of the carbon (C) stocks among different soil orders allows us to explore the role of various soil characteristics in long‐term C storage and their vulnerabilities. This study quantified and compared the accumulation rates of soil organic carbon (SOC) fractions (in 0–60 cm soil profile) in an Alfisol of Malda (25°27′33.9″N, 88°19′10.2″E) and an Entisol of Cooch Behar (26°09′62.7″N, 89°53′51.7″E) districts of West Bengal, India. We noticed a greater level of SOC (0–60 cm depth) in the Alfisol than the Entisol as the former soils were clayey in nature (fine textured) which provided the maximum stabilization of SOC compared to the Entisol (sandy textured). However, the storage of C fractions showed some peculiar results. The concentration of mineral‐associated carbon (Min‐C) was more or less similar in both the soil orders, but its stock was maximum in the Alfisol. While in the Entisol, permanganate oxidizable carbon (POX‐C) and particulate organic matter carbon (POM‐C) stocks recorded maximum among all the studied depths. A positive relation of SOC fractions and stocks with clay (r2 = >0.500 in the Alfisol; r2 = >0.700 in the Entisol) indicated the importance of finer fractions in profile storage of C. Min‐C contributed to SOC of about 75%–85% followed by POM‐C (3.27%–17.87%) and POX‐C (2.57%–4.22%). Higher stratification of SOC and POX‐C and POM‐C fractions was observed in Entisol; while in Alfisol, stratification of Min‐C was greater. Overall, this research demonstrated that the Alfisol has a greater potential in stabilizing Min‐C than the Entisol with POM‐C and POX‐C and the distribution of these fractions varied as per its stabilization.
A Bio‐synthetic Hybrid Hydrogel Formed under Physiological Conditions Consisting of Mucin and a Synthetic Polymer Carrying Boronic Acid
Authors: Nakahata Masaki , Tominaga Naoki , Saito Keishi , Nishiyama Keita , Tanino Yuya , Saiki Kiyoshiro , Kojima Masaru , Sakai Shinji
Published: April 2022

Mucin‐containing bio‐synthetic hybrid hydrogel is successfully formed under physiological conditions upon mixing aqueous solutions of native mucin and synthetic polymers carrying boronic acids. The mechanical properties and stability of the hydrogel in physiological solutions, e.g., cell culture media, are tunable depending on the boronic acid content of polymers. The hydrogel dissolved in the physiological solutions releases native mucin and boronic acid‐containing polymer, which can control the adhesion of mammalian cells to the surface.
Progress in Degradation Behavior of Most Common Types of Functionalized Polymers: A Review
Authors: Carboué Quentin , Fadlallah Sami , Lopez Michel , Allais Florent
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, degradation of polymeric material is a hot topic, it is either related to environmental considerations to avoid pollution accumulation, or to biomedical applications to reduce the toxicity or to facilitate the excretion of foreign agents in the body. Functionalization is a promising and interesting method to tune polymers degradation kinetics and profiles in a robust and controllable way depending on the targeted application. The incorporation of a functionality to a macromolecule occurs through mainly two strategies: direct functionalization of the corresponding monomers before their polymerization, and postpolymerization modifications that can occur on the side, main or/and end chains of the polymers. Ideally, the lifespan of a material is restricted to the duration of the application, its mechanical and chemical properties do not deteriorate and does not produce toxic byproducts over the degradation process. This review presents the latest advances in polymer functionalization strategies in terms of their impact on the degradation process. Special considerations are given to the main classes of polymers including polyesters, polyurethanes, polyacetals, as well as vinyl‐based and phosphorous‐derived polymers.
Butyrate Drives Metabolic Rewiring and Epigenetic Reprogramming in Human Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Wang Lujing , Shannar Ahmad Abdel Fat , Wu Renyi , Chou Pochung , Sarwar Md Shahid , Kuo Hsiao‐chen , Peter Rebecca Mary , Wang Yujue , Su Xiaoyang , Kong Ah‐Ng
Published: April 2022

Scope

Butyrate (B) is a short‐chain fatty acid produced by dietary fiber, known to inhibit histone deacetylases (HDACs) and possess cancer‐preventive/anticancer effects. However, the role of B in metabolic rewiring, epigenomic reprogramming, transcriptomic network, NRF2 signaling, and eliciting cancer‐preventive effects in colorectal cancer (CRC) HCT116 cell remains unclear.

Methods and results

Sodium butyrate (NaB) dose‐dependently inhibits the growth of CRC HCT116 cells. NaB inhibits NRF2/NRF2‐target genes and blocks NRF2‐ARE signaling. NaB increases NRF2 negative regulator KEAP1 expression through inhibiting its promoter methylation. Associative analysis of DEGs (differentially expressed genes) from RNA‐seq and DMRs (differentially methylated regions) from CpG methyl‐seq identified the tumor suppressor gene ABCA1 and tumor promote gene EGR3 are correlated with their promoters’ CpG methylation indicating NaB regulates cancer markers through modulating their promoter methylation. NaB activated the mitochondrial tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle while inhibited the methionine metabolism which are both tightly coupled to the epigenetic machinery. NaB regulates the epigenetic enzymes/genes including DNMT1, HAT1, KDM1A, KDM1B, and TET1. Altogether, B's regulation of metabolites coupled to the epigenetic enzymes illustrates the potential underlying biological connectivity between metabolomics and epigenomics.

Conclusion

B regulates KEAP1/NRF2 signaling, drives metabolic rewiring, CpG methylomic, and transcriptomic reprogramming contributing to the overall cancer‐prevention/anticancer effect in the CRC cell model.
Design of paper‐based bandpass frequency selective surface using slotlines
Authors: Han Ye , Feng Songyu , Chen Jiayue , Chang Yumei , Liao Shaowei , Che Wenquan
Published: April 2022

In this study, a three‐dimensional bandpass frequency selective surface (FSS) with a new fabrication technology is proposed and designed based on slotlines. The proposed FSS consists of silver paste circuits printed on aramid paper, and is vertically and horizontally arranged to form a periodic array in honeycomb structure. To better understand the design principle of the proposed FSS, the equivalent circuit model (ECM), single‐polarized structure, and dual‐polarized structure are presented and analyzed, respectively. The proposed FSS exhibits a passband at 4.1 GHz with a fractional bandwidth of 71.5% at x‐polarization and 66.2% at y‐polarization with reflectivity less than −10 dB. Moreover, the reflection and transmission coefficients have relative stable properties up to 30° for the oblique incidence. Then, the proposed structure is fabricated and measured to verify the design strategies. The measured and simulated results have reasonable agreement under a large variation of incident angles.
Phase recognition in contrast‐enhanced CT scans based on deep learning and random sampling
Authors: Dao Binh T. , Nguyen Thang V. , Pham Hieu H. , Nguyen Ha Q.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

A fully automated system for interpreting abdominal computed tomography (CT) scans with multiple phases of contrast enhancement requires an accurate classification of the phases. Current approaches to classify the CT phases are commonly based on three‐dimensional (3D) convolutional neural network (CNN) approaches with high computational complexity and high latency. This work aims at developing and validating a precise, fast multiphase classifier to recognize three main types of contrast phases in abdominal CT scans.

Methods

We propose in this study a novel method that uses a random sampling mechanism on top of deep CNNs for the phase recognition of abdominal CT scans of four different phases: noncontrast, arterial, venous, and others. The CNNs work as a slicewise phase prediction, while random sampling selects input slices for the CNN models. Afterward, majority voting synthesizes the slicewise results of the CNNs to provide the final prediction at the scan level.

Results

Our classifier was trained on 271 426 slices from 830 phase‐annotated CT scans, and when combined with majority voting on 30% of slices randomly chosen from each scan, achieved a mean F1 score of 92.09% on our internal test set of 358 scans. The proposed method was also evaluated on two external test sets: CTPAC‐CCRCC (N = 242) and LiTS (N = 131), which were annotated by our experts. Although a drop in performance was observed, the model performance remained at a high level of accuracy with a mean F1 scores of 76.79% and 86.94% on CTPAC‐CCRCC and LiTS datasets, respectively. Our experimental results also showed that the proposed method significantly outperformed the state‐of‐the‐art 3D approaches while requiring less computation time for inference.

Conclusions

In comparison to state‐of‐the‐art classification methods, the proposed approach shows better accuracy with significantly reduced latency. Our study demonstrates the potential of a precise, fast multiphase classifier based on a two‐dimensional deep learning approach combined with a random sampling method for contrast phase recognition, providing a valuable tool for extracting multiphase abdomen studies from low veracity, real‐world data.
Contrast‐agent‐free state‐of‐the‐art MRI on cerebral small vessel disease—part 1. ASL, IVIM, and CVR
Authors: Paschoal André Monteiro , Secchinatto Kaio Felippe , da Silva Pedro Henrique Rodrigues , Zotin Maria Clara Zanon , dos Santos Antônio Carlos , Viswanathan Anand , Pontes‐Neto Octavio M. , Leoni Renata Ferranti
Published: April 2022

Cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD), a common cause of stroke and dementia, is traditionally considered the small vessel equivalent of large artery occlusion or rupture that leads to cortical and subcortical brain damage. Microvessel endothelial dysfunction can also contribute to it. Brain imaging, including MRI, is useful to show the presence of lesions of several types, although the association between conventional MRI measures and clinical features of cSVD is not always concordant. We assessed the additional contribution of contrast‐agent‐free, state‐of‐the‐art MRI techniques such as arterial spin labeling (ASL), diffusion tensor imaging, functional MRI, and intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) applied to cSVD in the existing literature. We performed a review following the PICO Worksheet and Search Strategy, including original papers in English, published between 2000 and 2022. For each MRI method, we extracted information about their contributions, in addition to those established with traditional MRI methods and related information about the origins, pathology, markers, and clinical outcomes in cSVD. This paper presents the first part of the review, which includes 37 studies focusing on ASL, IVIM, and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) measures. In general, they have shown that, in addition to white matter hyperintensities, alterations in other neuroimaging parameters such as blood flow and CVR also indicate the presence of cSVD. Such quantitative parameters were also related to cSVD risk factors. Therefore, they are promising, noninvasive tools to explore questions that have not yet been clarified about this clinical condition. However, protocol standardization is essential to increase their clinical use.
An adaptive reduced order model for the angular discretization of the Boltzmann transport equation using independent basis sets over a partitioning of the space‐angle domain
Authors: Hughes Alexander C. , Buchan Andrew G.
Published: April 2022

This article presents a new reduced order model (ROM) for the angular discretization of the Boltzmann transport equation. The angular ROM is built over a partitioning of the space‐angle phase‐space, by generating independent, optimized angular basis function sets for each partition. The advantage is that each basis function set is optimized to represent the neutron flux distribution in a particular partition of space and angle, rather than being optimized for the entire domain. This serves to reduce the total number of basis functions required, and therefore the solve time. Two numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the efficacy of the methods—a dog‐leg duct problem, involving particle streaming, and the Watanabe–Maynard problem, which includes significant particle scattering. In both cases, it is shown that the method reduces the angular flux error, for a given basis size or solve time, by around an order of magnitude in comparison to other, similar ROM methods. An adaptive version of the method is also presented, whereby the number of basis functions within each space‐angle partition can vary independently. It is shown to potentially provide further significant reductions in error.
c‐perpendicular orientation in thin nanoporous‐crystalline poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene)oxide films
Authors: Nagendra Baku , Daniel Christophe , Rizzo Paola , Guerra Gaetano
Published: April 2022

Nanoporous‐crystalline films of poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene)oxide (PPO), exhibiting c‐perpendicular orientation (c⊥) orientation (i.e., the orientation of the crystalline chain axes being preferentially perpendicular to the film plane), show the advantage of faster guest diffusivity and higher transparency. However, by using the methods described in the literature, this perpendicular orientation cannot be achieved for low thickness films (≤20 μm). In this paper, we describe four different preparation methods, which are suitable to get high degree of crystallinity (Xc >40%) as well as high degree of c⊥ orientation (−0.5< fc <− 0.3) of CC and NC α forms, for film thickness even as low as 5 μm. All the described methods are based on reduction of guest sorption kinetics. The reported results also confirm our previous hypothesis that c⊥ orientation is due to formation of flat‐on crystalline lamellae, which in turn are due to nanoconfined co‐crystallization of PPO. An anomalous temperature dependence of c⊥ orientation for limonene‐induced co‐crystallization with PPO is described and rationalized.
Heterogeneous coagulant potential of emicizumab in neonatal factor VIII–deficient plasma
Authors: Takeyama Masahiro , Furukawa Shoko , Onishi Tomoko , Noguchi‐Sasaki Mariko , Shima Midori , Nogami Keiji
Published: April 2022

Background

Emicizumab prophylaxis reduces bleeding in hemophilia A (HA) patients. However, there are few data on emicizumab treatment in neonates with HA (neonate‐HA), and the procoagulant effects of emicizumab in these patients are unknown.

Aim

To investigate the coagulation activity of emicizumab in vitro in a plasma model of neonate‐HA.

Methods

Plasmas from 84 neonates with non‐HA were enrolled. However, due to the limited plasma volumes in some cases, 50 plasmas were assigned to two different assay groups. To prepare the neonate‐HA model, plasma was first preincubated with an antifactor (F) VIII A2 monoclonal antibody (mAb). After further incubation with emicizumab, global coagulation activity was measured: adjusted maximum coagulation velocity (Ad|min1|) in clot waveform analysis (CWA) and peak thrombin in thrombin generation assay (TGA).

Results

Because the addition of anti‐FVIII mAb to 22 of 43 samples showed little decrease in Ad|min1|, the remaining 21 samples were analyzed by CWA. The addition of emicizumab increased Ad|min1| in 18 of the 19 cases (effective group) but not in the remaining 3 cases (noneffective group). Similarly, TGA found that emicizumab (effective group) improved peak thrombin in seven of the nine samples tested, but two cases did not respond (noneffective group). Although the effective group had lower levels of FX, there was no significant difference between the effective and noneffective groups in terms of FIX, protein S, protein C, antithrombin, and fibrinogen.

Conclusions

The in vitro coagulant potentials of emicizumab in the neonate‐HA model were more heterogeneous than those recorded in the adult‐HA model.
Performance evaluation of glass ionomer and alumina‐silica nanoparticle reinforced dental composite using preference selection index
Authors: Verma Rahul , Azam Mohammad Sikandar , Kumar Shiv Ranjan
Published: April 2022

In this present study, the preference selection index method (PSI) was applied to identify the best formulation among ceramic fillers such as glass ionomer cement (GIC), nanosilica and nanoalumina nanofiller in the dental composites. The comparative assessment of the effect of nanofillers (nanoalumina and nanosilica fillers) and glass ionomer cement has been evaluated. Dental composites with 0, 10, and 20 wt% of nanoalumina, nanosilica and glass ionomer cement were fabricated. These composites were analyzed for physico‐mechanical and wear properties. The PSI multi‐criteria decision making technique was used to rank the composites with various filler content. The performance defining attributes for the comparative assessment were set as void content, hardness, compressive strength, flexural strength, diametral tensile strength, and wear properties against load and speed. The PSI of dental composite reinforced with 20 wt% nanosilica (DCSi‐20) was maximum (0.896) followed by dental composite reinforced with 20 wt% glass ionomer (DCGi‐20) (0.889) and hence DCSi‐20 demonstrated as most preferred dental composite material followed by DCGi‐20. DC‐0 showed the least preference dental composite materials on the basis of desirable physical, mechanical, and wear properties. Finally, it can be concluded that despite of more void content and low flexural strength, overall performance of glass ionomer is comparable with nanosilica and more significant with respect to nanoalumina.
Mechanical, acoustic and vibration performance of intra‐ply Kevlar/PALF epoxy hybrid composites: Effects of different weaving patterns
Authors: Jeyaguru Sangilimuthukumar , Thiagamani Senthil Muthu Kumar , Pulikkalparambil Harikrishnan , Siengchin Suchart , Subramaniam Jeyanthi , Rangappa Sanjay Mavinkere , Muthukumar Chandrasekar , Krishnasamy Senthilkumar
Published: April 2022

The influence of different weaving patterns on tensile, acoustic, and vibration behavior of intra‐ply Kevlar and pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) hybrid woven fabric reinforced epoxy matrix composites was investigated. Intra‐ply hybrid Kevlar/PALF woven fabrics were analyzed by three weaves: plain, twill, and basket. Also, epoxy matrix, pure Kevlar, and PALF woven fabric composites were analyzed for comparison purposes. Results revealed that the basket‐type hybrid composites exhibited a higher tensile strength of 77 MPa compared to plain (63 MPa) and twill‐type (73 MPa) hybrid composites. Plain and twill weave hybrid composites presented higher sound transmission loss levels of 28.9 and 30.5 dB, respectively, at higher frequency levels. Free vibration analysis showed that the PALF composites had higher damping and a lower natural frequency whereas the pure Kevlar and hybrid composites (KP1, KP2, and KP3) exhibited lower damping and higher natural frequencies.
Composites based on PVA and Al–Zn structures with excellent mechanical properties
Authors: Khlyustova Anna , Sirotkin Nikolay , Kraev Anton , Agafonov Alexandr , Titov Valery
Published: April 2022

Films of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with Al–Zn fillers were prepared using underwater pulsed plasma. Electrodes made of these materials were used as a source of Al and Zn structures. During the action of the plasma, the electrodes were sprayed. α‐Al2O3, ZnO, and Zn–Al layered double hydroxides were formed. X‐ray and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyzes of the composites obtained showed a strong interaction between the polymer and fillers. The mechanical properties of the films showed that the incorporation of aluminum and zinc structures into the polymer matrix under the action of plasma leads to a giant increase in the mechanical strength of PVA at a filler concentration of 0.5%–3%. The electrical characteristics of polymer composites showed the non‐linear behavior of J–Vcurves. The results obtained show one of the new range of applications of pulsed underwater plasma in the production of reinforced polymer composites.
Simulated confined placental mosaicism proportion (SCPMP) based on cell‐free fetal DNA fraction enrichment can reduce false‐positive results in non‐invasive prenatal testing
Authors: Zhou Junhua , Ouyang Guojun , Wu Long , Zhang Min , Weng Rongtao , Lin Shuman , Wang Yuanli , Li Kun , Yang Xu , Wu Yingsong , Liang Zhikun , Li Fenxia , Qu Shoufang , Yang Xuexi
Published: April 2022

Objective

To decrease the false‐positive rate of NIPT using cell‐free fetal DNA (cffDNA) fraction enrichment and the simulated confined placental mosaicism proportion (SCPMP) threshold application via cffDNA quantification.

Method

Using a cffDNA enrichment method, 303 plasma samples with positive NIPT results (Z‐score > 3.0; 200 true‐positive and 103 false‐positive cases) were re‐sequenced. A method to calculate the SCPMP based on the quantified cffDNA fraction was developed; the SCPMP threshold between true‐ and false‐positive NIPT results was determined and used for re‐analyses.

Results

With enrichment, the fetal fraction of the 303 samples was 26.9 ± 8.4%, compared to 11.0 ± 3.2% without enrichment. The optimized threshold method with double determination using the Z‐value‐defined SCPMP can reduce the false‐positive rates for trisomies 21, 18, and 13 by 87%, 80%, and 88.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our optimized method can decrease the false‐positive rate of NIPT results.
A pilot study of ADRA2A genotype association with doses of dexmedetomidine for sedation in pediatric patients
Authors: Gallaway Katherine A. , Skaar Todd C. , Biju Ashwin , Slaven James , Tillman Emma M.
Published: April 2022

Study Objective

Dexmedetomidine is titrated to achieve sedation in the pediatric and cardiovascular intensive care units (PICU and CVICU). In adults, dexmedetomidine response has been associated with an ADRA2A polymorphism (rs1800544); CC genotype is associated with an increased sedative response compared with GC and GG. To date, this has not been studied in children.

Design

We conducted a pilot study to determine whether ADRA2A genotype is associated with dexmedetomidine dose in children.

Measurements and Main Results

Forty intubated PICU or CVICU patients who received dexmedetomidine as a continuous infusion for at least 2 days were genotyped for ADRA2A with a custom‐designed TaqMan® Assay. Ten (25%) subjects were wildtype (GG), 15 (37.5%) were heterozygous (GC), and 15 (37.5%) were homozygous (CC) variant. The maximum dexmedetomidine doses (mCg/kg/h) were not different between genotype groups CC (1, 0.3–1.2), GC (1, 0.3–1.3), and GG (0.8, 0.3–1.2), (p = 0.37); neither were mean dexmedetomidine doses for these respective genotype groups 0.68 (0.24–1.07), 0.72 (0.22–0.98), 0.58 (0.3–0.94), (p = 0.67).

Conclusions

These findings did not confirm the results from adult studies where ADRA2A polymorphisms correlate with dexmedetomidine response, therefore highlighting the need for pediatric studies to validate PGx findings in adults prior to implementation in pediatrics.
Oscillometry: A substitute of spirometry in children with neuromuscular diseases?
Authors: Veldhoen Esther S. , Roos Johan H. , Bekkema Rolien , van der Pol Ludo W. , Tinnevelt Marcel H. B. , Verweij‐van den Oudenrijn Laura P. , Wösten‐van Asperen Roelie M. , Hulzebos Erik H. J. , Wijngaarde Camiel A. , van der Ent Cornelis K.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Spirometry plays an important role in the assessment of possible respiratory failure in children with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). However, obtaining reliable spirometry results is a major challenge. We studied the relation between oscillometry and spirometry results. Oscillometry is an easy, noninvasive method to measure respiratory resistance R and reactance X. We hypothesized an increased R and reduced X in patients with more reduced lung function.

Methods

In this prospective single‐center study, we included all children with NMDs able to perform spirometry. We consecutively measured R and X at 5, 11, and 19 Hz and (forced) vital capacity, peak expiratory flow. Spearman correlation coefficients and positive and negative predictive values were calculated. Regression curves were estimated.

Results

We included 148 patients, median age 13 years (interquartile range: 8–16). A negative correlation was found between R and spirometry outcomes (Spearman correlation coefficient [ρ]: −0.5 to −0.6, p < 0.001). A positive correlation was found between X (i.e., less negative outcomes) and spirometry outcomes (ρ: 0.4–0.6, p < 0.001). Highest correlation was found at lower frequencies. Regression analysis showed a nonlinear relation. Measurement of inspiratory and expiratory R and X did not provide added value. Positive predictive values of 80%–85% were found for z‐scores of R measured at 5 Hz versus (F)VC ≤ 60%.

Conclusion

We found a nonlinear relation between oscillometry and spirometry results with increased R and reduced X in patients with more restrictive lung function decline. Given the difficulties with performing spirometry, oscillometry may be a promising substitute.
Indocyanine green colonic perfusion demonstration following robotic da Vinci X inferior mesenteric artery ligation for the treatment of type II endoleak
Authors: Lambert Joel , Al Majid Sulaymaan , Salaman Robert , Gavan Duncan , Sheikh Adnan , Gill Michael
Published: April 2022

Background

We describe the technical operative details of the robotic repair of a type II endoleak (T2E) following endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). We demonstrate that indocyanine green (ICG) can be used intra‐operatively to demonstrate perfusion of the colon following ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) vessel feeding the aneurysm sac.

Methods

A 74‐year old male underwent EVAR for a 5.8 cm infra‐renal abdominal aortic aneurysm using an E‐Tegra, Jotec Device (JOTEC Gmb, Lotzenäcker 23,D‐72379 Hechingen). Surveillance contrast CT (CTA) over the ensuing 30 months confirmed progressive sac expansion.

Results

ICG confirmed colonic perfusion via the marginals after IMA ligation. Total operative time 56 min < 50 mls blood loss and 1‐day hospital stay. 3‐month follow‐up: CTA and ultrasound demonstrated complete resolution of T2E and adequately perfused colon.

Conclusion

A total robotic approach can be performed safely with intra‐operative ICG used to demonstrate colonic perfusion as an added safety measure.
Statistical power and sample size requirements to detect an intervention by time interaction in four‐level longitudinal cluster randomized trials
Authors: Ghosh Samiran , Mukhopadhyay Siuli , Majumder Priyanka , Wang Bo
Published: April 2022

Cluster/group randomized controlled trials (CRTs) have a long history in the study of health sciences. CRT is a special type of intervention trial in which a complete group is randomly assigned to a study condition (or intervention). It is typically performed when individual randomization is difficult/impossible without substantial risk of contamination across study arms or prohibitive from the cost or group dynamics point of view. In this article, the aim is to design and analyze four‐level longitudinal cluster randomized trials. The main interest here is to study the difference between treatment groups over time for such a four‐level hierarchical data structure. This work is motivated by a real‐life study for education based HIV prevention. Such trials are not only popular for administrative convenience, ethical considerations, subject compliance, but also help to reduce contamination bias. A random intercept mixed effects linear regression including a time by intervention interaction is used for modeling. Closed form expression of the power function to detect the interaction effect is determined. Sample size equations depend on correlation among schools but not on correlations among classes or students while, the power function depends on the product of number of units at different levels. Optimal allocation of units under a fixed cost by minimizing the expected standardized variance is also determined and are shown to be independent of correlations among units in any level. Results of detailed simulation studies find the theoretical power estimates based on the derived formulae close to the empirical estimates.