bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of physico‐geographical factors and climate variability on flow intermittency in the rivers of water surplus zone
Authors: Šarauskienė Diana , Akstinas Vytautas , Nazarenko Serhii , Kriaučiūnienė Jūratė , Jurgelėnaitė Aldona 
Published: September 2020

AbstractClimate change is inevitably altering the hydrological regime of water bodies. The interest in changing behaviour of intermittent rivers is increasing in many countries. This research was focused on intermittent rivers (rivers which naturally, periodically cease to flow) in Lithuania. The purpose of this research was to provide an overview of flow intermittency phenomena according to available data in a historical period and to evaluate the impact of catchment geographical features and climate variability on zero‐flow events. The calculated indices of flow intermittency showed that the selected rivers had very different flow regimes. The threshold for the separation of typically intermittent rivers from only occasionally intermittent ones was suggested. Multiple linear regression analysis defined the crucial role of catchment size and watercourse slope on the river cessation process in Lithuania. The applied non‐parametric Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test revealed the significance of the relationship between precipitation (in June–September) and zero‐flow duration. Flow intermittency phenomena in Lithuanian rivers were linked to a low‐frequency teleconnection pattern (SCAND index). A methodology of estimating the relation between river intermittency and large‐scale atmospheric circulation pattern (based on SCAND index) was created. The generated regression equations between flow intermittency indices and catchment characteristics might be useful for the estimation of zero‐flows in ungauged river catchments. The main aspect of future investigations might be related to forecasting flow intermittency using modern hydrological models and climate scenarios as well as the defined relationships between zero‐flow indices and physico‐geographical features of river catchments.
Research participant understanding and engagement in an institutional, self‐consent biobank model
Authors: Schmanski Andrew , Roberts Emily , Coors Marilyn , Wicks Stephen J. , Arbet Jaron , Weber Rachel , Crooks Kristy , Barnes Kathleen C. , Taylor Matthew R. G. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe number of institutional and governmental biobanks and the target enrollment sizes of modern biobanks are increasing, affording more opportunities for the public to participate in biobanking efforts. In parallel with these expansions are pressures to increase the efficiency of obtaining informed consent using shorter consent forms that cover a broader scope of research and increasingly include provisions for return of research or clinical genetic test results to participants. Given these changes, how well these participants understand genetics, their level of understanding of what they are consenting to, and their wishes to engage longitudinally and receive biobank results are not well understood. We surveyed participants in a large, medical system‐based biobank who had enrolled through a two‐page, self‐consent process about their baseline knowledge of genetics, understanding and recall of the consent process, wishes for future contact and engagement, and level of interest in receiving clinical genetic testing results. A total of 856 consented persons participated in the survey (67% women; 67% white). Participants’ general reported genetics knowledge was relatively high (mean 11.60 of 15 questions answered correctly) as was recall of key elements from the two‐page consent form. Overall participant enthusiasm for future contact by the biobank and for receiving clinical genetic testing results was high. The use of a two‐page, self‐consent process in a large, institutional biobank resulted in high levels of consent recall and enthusiasm for future ongoing engagement and receipt of genetic testing results by participants.
Ibrutinib for chronic lymphocytic leukemia in the setting of respiratory failure from severe COVID‐19 infection: Case report and literature review
Authors: Lin Adam Yuh , Cuttica Michael J. , Ison Michael G. , Gordon Leo I. 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIbrutinib, a known Burton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) and interleukin‐2 inducible T‐cell kinase (ITK) inhibitor, is used for the treatment of B‐cell disorders (chronic lymphocytic leukemia [CLL] and various other lymphomas) and chronic graft versus host disease following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation. Because it is considered an immunosuppressant, continuation of ibrutinib is often debated when patients have an active infection, and this becomes an especially difficult decision in the setting of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). Here, we describe a patient with CLL who was on ibrutinib then developed severe COVID‐19 infection requiring mechanical ventilation. We elected to continue ibrutinib the same day he was intubated, reasoning that BTK inhibition in myeloid immune cells has been shown to reduce or even reverse influenza‐mediated acute lung injury and that ITK inhibition in T cells has correlated with reduction in viral replication, and therefore may have an advantage in this setting. Ibrutinib also has been shown to block Src family kinases, which potentially could result in reduction of viral entry and the inflammatory cytokine response in the lungs. The patient was extubated after 9 days with a complex hospital course and eventually discharged on room air. The only way to rationally inform these decisions and explore similar potentially promising leads in this pandemic is to conduct carefully done clinical trials.
The utility of abdominal ultrasonography in the diagnosis of fungal infections in children: a narrative review
Authors: Sungkana Henry , Edwards Christopher , Reddan Tristan 
Published: September 2020

AbstractIn paediatric patients, ultrasonography is one of the preferred medical imaging modalities due to the lack of ionising radiation. Abdominal ultrasonography can be a useful tool in diagnosing cases of fungal infections but may introduce some risks for further infection in vulnerable patients or cause anxiety and discomfort. The aim of this narrative review is to analyse the utility of abdominal ultrasonography in diagnosing fungal infections in children in terms of its positive hit rates and utility in typical use. Text words and indexed terms related to ‘fungal infection and ultrasonography’ and ‘children’ were searched on MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Scopus. Paediatric oncology patients, neonates and generally immunocompromised children were found to be at‐risk groups with increasing susceptibility to risk factors for contracting fungal infections. Abdominal ultrasonography was found to aid in the diagnosis of fungal infection in many cases, but not all patients with the identified risk factors were diagnosed with fungal infections and not all patients diagnosed with fungal infections had identified risk factors. Ultrasonography was found to be overutilised and the current decision process in requesting abdominal ultrasonography in diagnosing fungal infection should be revised. Further study into an effective criterion in requesting abdominal ultrasonography is suggested to reduce the overutilisation of ultrasonography, thus reducing risk of infection and discomfort while also saving time and money.
Pricing for a product with network effects and mixed logit demand
Authors: Nosrat Fatemeh , Cooper William L. , Wang Zizhuo 
Published: September 2020

AbstractWe consider a pricing problem for a single product that experiences network effects. Demand is described by a consumer choice model in which each individual chooses between purchasing the product and not purchasing the product. We assume that there are multiple segments in the population of potential buyers, and that individuals' intrinsic values for the product and sensitivities to the network effect (ie, the extent to which their values are affected by how many others buy the product) vary across segments. The demand model may be viewed as a version of the mixed multinomial logit model, modified to incorporate network effects. We formulate and analyze an optimization problem that aims to find the seller's revenue‐maximizing price. In settings with an arbitrary number of demand segments, we present a simple, effective heuristic solution approach. In settings with two segments, we obtain a solution method that outputs provably near‐optimal prices. We close with an extensive numerical study.
A challenging diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma with osteosarcomatous differentiation metastasizing to bone
Authors: Brown Michael , Jersmann Hubertus , Crowhurst Thomas , Van Vliet Chris , Crouch Gareth , Badiei Arash 
Published: September 2020

AbstractMalignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is an insidious primary neoplasm of the pleura that can be challenging to diagnose and is commonly considered to be only locally invasive. We present the case of a 74‐year‐old male who presented with clinical features of MPM but from whom pleural fluid and biopsies initially suggested benign pathology. He later developed diffuse bony metastases and re‐examination of pleural biopsies using modern immunohistochemistry and molecular testing revealed a diagnosis of sarcomatoid and desmoplastic MPM with heterologous osteosarcomatous differentiation. This case not only demonstrates the rare potential of skeletal metastasis of MPM, but also highlights the importance of recognizing the utility of modern diagnostic tests and their potential to prevent the need for unnecessary invasive procedures. To our knowledge this is the first description of this rare histological sub‐type presenting with skeletal metastases.
Investigating a Text Structure Intervention for Reading and Writing in Grades 4 and 5
Authors: Strong John Z. 
Published: September 2020

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this mixed‐methods experimental study was to investigate the effects and social validity of a text structure intervention for reading and writing in upper elementary grades. Fourth‐ and fifth‐grade teachers (N = 11) in three elementary schools were randomly assigned to implement the text structure intervention or a comprehension strategies intervention. The student sample (N = 351) comprised 160 students who received the text structure intervention and 191 students who received the comprehension strategies intervention, across grades 4 and 5. Quantitative measures of text structure awareness, reading comprehension, and writing quality were analyzed using three‐level hierarchical linear modeling. Qualitative interviews were analyzed typologically to assess upper elementary teachers’ perceptions of the social validity of each intervention. Quantitative results indicated that students who received the text structure intervention outperformed the students who received the comprehension strategies intervention on a measure of text structure awareness, a graphic organizer task, and use of ideas and details in informational writing. Qualitative findings indicated that teachers found the goals, procedures, and effects of the text structure intervention to be socially valid for upper elementary grades.
Insight into the mechanism of aspartame‐induced toxicity in male reproductive system following long‐term consumption in mice model
Authors: Anbara Hojat , Sheibani Mohammad Taghi , Razi Mazdak , Kian Mehdi 
Published: September 2020

AbstractAspartame is one of the most common consumed artificial sweeteners utilized in many food products and beverages. It has been indicated that long‐term consumption of aspartame leads to reproductive toxicity but its mechanism is not well‐clear. In this study we investigated mechanism of aspartame‐induced reproductive toxicity in male mice. For this purpose, 36 NMRI mature male mice received three doses of 40, 80, and 160 mg/kg body weight of aspartame, respectively per day by gavage for 90 days and also a control group was considered which received 0.5 mL of normal saline as the same route. The results revealed that long‐term administration of aspartame at high doses significantly (P < .05) reduced gonadosomatic index, serum concentration of pituitary‐testicular axis hormones (FSH, LH, and testosterone). It also decreased sperm parameters and total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase), while it caused increase in nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels in testis tissue and sperm samples. Also, it decreased attenuated testicular histomorphometric indices (tubular differentiation index, spermiogenesis index, and repopulation index), and steroidogenic foci, while increased mRNA damages and apoptosis rate, downregulated antiapoptotic (Bcl‐2) and upregulated proapoptotic (P53, BAX, and caspase‐3) mediators respectively in testis. These findings indicated that consumption of aspartame for a long period results in male reproductive toxicity by decrease in serum concentration of pituitary‐testis axis hormones and induction of oxidative stress and apoptosis in testis.
Shape optimization of the X0-specimen: theory, numerical simulation and experimental verification
Authors: Liedmann Jan , Gerke Steffen , Barthold Franz-Joseph , Brünig Michael 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe paper deals with the gradient based shape optimization of the biaxial X0-specimen, which has been introduced and examined in various papers, under producibility restrictions and the related experimental verification. The original, engineering based design of the X0-specimen has been applied successfully to different loading conditions persisting the question if relevant stress states could be reached by optimizing the geometry. Specimens with the initial as well as with the two load case dependent optimized geometries have been fabricated of the aluminum alloy sheets (AlSi1MgMn; EN AW 6082-T6) and tested. The strain fields in critical regions of the specimens have been recorded by digital image correlation technique. In addition, scanning electron microscope analysis of the fracture surfaces clearly indicate the stress state dependent damage processes. Consequently, the presented gradient based optimization technique facilitated significant improvements to study the damage and fracture processes in a more purposeful way.
A deep Q-learning portfolio management framework for the cryptocurrency market
Authors: Lucarelli Giorgio , Borrotti Matteo 
Published: September 2020

AbstractDeep reinforcement learning is gaining popularity in many different fields. An interesting sector is related to the definition of dynamic decision-making systems. A possible example is dynamic portfolio optimization, where an agent has to continuously reallocate an amount of fund into a number of different financial assets with the final goal of maximizing return and minimizing risk. In this work, a novel deep Q-learning portfolio management framework is proposed. The framework is composed by two elements: a set of local agents that learn assets behaviours and a global agent that describes the global reward function. The framework is tested on a crypto portfolio composed by four cryptocurrencies. Based on our results, the deep reinforcement portfolio management framework has proven to be a promising approach for dynamic portfolio optimization.
Validation of multiparametric MRI by histopathology after nephrectomy: a case study
Authors: de Boer Anneloes , Pieters Tobias T. , Harteveld Anita A. , Blankestijn Peter J. , Bos Clemens , Froeling Martijn , Goldschmeding Roel , Hoogduin Hans J. M. , Joles Jaap A. , Petri Bart-Jeroen , Verhaar Marianne C. , Leiner Tim , Nguyen Tri Q. , van Zuilen Arjan D. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Objectives
Renal multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) is a promising tool to monitor renal allograft health to enable timely treatment of chronic allograft nephropathy. This study aims to validate mpMRI by whole-kidney histology following transplantectomy.

Materials and methods
A patient with kidney transplant failure underwent mpMRI prior to transplantectomy. The mpMRI included blood oxygenation level-dependent (BOLD) MRI, T1 and T2 mapping, diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), 2D phase contrast (2DPC) and arterial spin labeling (ASL). Parenchymal mpMRI measures were compared to normative values obtained in 19 healthy controls. Differences were expressed in standard deviations (SD) of normative values. The mpMRI measures were compared qualitatively to histology.

Results
The mpMRI showed a heterogeneous parenchyma consistent with extensive interstitial hemorrhage on histology. A global increase in T1 (+ 3.0 SD) and restricted diffusivity (− 3.6 SD) were consistent with inflammation and fibrosis. Decreased T2 (− 1.8 SD) indicated fibrosis or hemorrhage. ASL showed diminished cortical perfusion (− 2.9 SD) with patent proximal arteries. 2DPC revealed a 69% decrease in renal perfusion. Histological evaluation showed a dense inflammatory infiltrate and fibrotic changes, consistent with mpMRI results. Most interlobular arteries were obliterated while proximal arteries were patent, consistent with ASL findings.

Discussion
mpMRI findings correlated well with histology both globally as well as locally.
Capillary-force-induced collapse lithography for controlled plasmonic nanogap structures
Authors: Kim Inki , Mun Jungho , Hwang Wooseup , Yang Younghwan , Rho Junsuk 
Published: September 2020

AbstractThe capillary force effect is one of the most important fabrication parameters that must be considered at the micro/nanoscale because it is strong enough to deform micro/nanostructures. However, the deformation of micro/nanostructures due to such capillary forces (e.g., stiction and collapse) has been regarded as an undesirable and uncontrollable obstacle to be avoided during fabrication. Here, we present a capillary-force-induced collapse lithography (CCL) technique, which exploits the capillary force to precisely control the collapse of micro/nanostructures. CCL uses electron-beam lithography, so nanopillars with various shapes can be fabricated by precisely controlling the capillary-force-dominant cohesion process and the nanopillar-geometry-dominant collapse process by adjusting the fabrication parameters such as the development time, electron dose, and shape of the nanopillars. CCL aims to achieve sub-10-nm plasmonic nanogap structures that promote extremely strong focusing of light. CCL is a simple and straightforward method to realize such nanogap structures that are needed for further research such as on plasmonic nanosensors.
French Validation of the Alcohol Urge Questionnaire: Psychometric Properties and Relationship with Alcohol Dependence and Drinking Behavior
Authors: Constant Aymery , Sanz Marlene , Auffret Manon , Naudet Florian , Vérin Marc , Moirand Romain 
Published: September 2020

Abstract

Aim
To validate a French translation of the Alcohol Urge Questionnaire (AUQ) that measures craving in patients with alcohol dependence.

Method
All patients aged &gt; 18 years who were hospitalized for alcohol detoxification from February to May 2019 in the alcohol unit of the Rennes university hospital were eligible. A back-translated version of the AUQ was completed at admission. Patients were interviewed at the end of the 7-day detoxification program by a trained addiction psychiatrist (MS), using tablet computed-based questionnaires assessing state craving (visual analog scale), alcohol dependence severity, drinking behavior, psychological distress and physical/mental health. The same investigator assessed relapse 1 month after discharge.

Results
A total of 80 inpatients were recruited and completed questionnaires. The single factor structure of the French version of the AUQ was similar to the original questionnaire, and was supported by strong internal reliability and item-scale validity. The AUQ score correlated highly acute craving measure, but moderately scales assessing the severity of alcohol dependence, drinking behavior and mental health. Relapse 1 month after discharge was significantly related to AUQ score assessed either at baseline, or with better estimate at the end of the 7-day detoxification period.

Conclusion
The French version of the AUQ provides a reliable measure of phasic craving, which is best described as a context-dependent single-factor variable, related to but distinct from tonic craving, dependence severity and drinking behavior. The ease of administration makes the AUQ a useful tool for French-speaking patients with alcohol dependence.
A Surviving Child from Acute Liver Failure after an Ingestion of Cassia occidentalis Seeds
Authors: Getsuwan Songpon , Tanpowpong Pornthep , Trakulsrichai Satariya , Sornmayura Pattana , Treepongkaruna Suporn 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Cassia occidentalis toxicity is thought to be uncommon; however, several cases have been described with acute hepatomyoencephalopathy with a high-mortality rate. We report a previously healthy, 2-year-old girl who developed acute liver failure after fresh seed ingestion. Without a specific antidote, we decided to implement supportive measures and medications including lactulose, sodium benzoate and N-acetylcysteine. The patient also experienced with cardiogenic shock and transient distal renal tubular acidosis, which were all spontaneously resolved. The liver chemistries returned to normal 3 months after the ingestion, without receiving liver assisted device or liver transplantation.
A Novel Technique for Spondylolysis Repair With Pedicle Screws, Rod and Polyester Band
Authors: Berjano Pedro , Ristori Gabriele , Ismael Aguirre Maryem-Fama , Langella Francesco , Damilano Marco , Cecchinato Riccardo , Pun Alvin , Lamartina Claudio 
Published: September 2020

Study Design.
Systematic review and case report.

Objective.
Our study aims to present a new technique using three components to repair the pars defect: pedicle screws, rod and polyester band. Furthermore, we perform a systematic literature review of the previously described techniques.

Summary of Background.
Spondylolysis is a common condition in children and adolescents. Depending on the severity it may be treated either nonoperatively or surgically. Surgery is required if nonoperative treatment failed to give sustained pain relief. Several surgical techniques have been described.

Methods.
The literature review investigates the database (MEDLINE-EMBASE-Cochrane-ScienceDirect) up to May 2019 for studies presenting a surgical technique for spondylolysis.
The Screw-Rod-Band (SRB) technique combines the use of pedicle screws, a rod and a polyester band to repair the spondylolysis. The horizontal rod connects the pedicle screws. The polyester band linked to the rod passes below the spinous process to apply compressive forces on the pars.

Results.
Twenty-one out of 982 studies described a surgical procedure. Eight main different techniques were identified: Isthmic Screw, Wiring, Butterfly-Plate, Hook-Screw Construct, Shaped-Rod, Laminar-Screw, and two combination technique (Lag Screw and Tension Band Fixation and Cortical Screws and Spinous-Process ModularLink). Our technique showed immediate postoperative clinical improvement. No surgical or perisurgical complication occurred.

Conclusion.
The systematic literature review revealed a great number of surgical techniques for the spondylolysis, demonstrating the lack of consensus.
SRB technique is an effective and simple treatment for pars fixation. The surgical procedure puts the pars under strong compression. The results are comparable with procedures present in the literature and seems capable to reduce the invasiveness and the risk of neurological injury.

Level of Evidence: 2