bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Domain‐specific data augmentation for segmenting MR images of fatty infiltrated human thighs with neural networks
Authors: Gadermayr Michael , Li Kexin , Müller Madlaine , Truhn Daniel , Krämer Nils , Merhof Dorit , Gess Burkhard 
Published: January 2019

BackgroundFat‐fraction has been established as a relevant marker for the assessment and diagnosis of neuromuscular diseases. For computing this metric, segmentation of muscle tissue in MR images is a first crucial step.PurposeTo tackle the high degree of variability in combination with the high annotation effort for training supervised segmentation models (such as fully convolutional neural networks).Study TypeProspective.SubjectsIn all, 41 patients consisting of 20 patients showing fatty infiltration and 21 healthy subjects.Field Strength/Sequence: The T1‐weighted MR‐pulse sequences were acquired on a 1.5T scanner.AssessmentTo increase performance with limited training data, we propose a domain‐specific technique for simulating fatty infiltrations (i.e., texture augmentation) in nonaffected subjects' MR images in combination with shape augmentation. For simulating the fatty infiltrations, we make use of an architecture comprising several competing networks (generative adversarial networks) that facilitate a realistic artificial conversion between healthy and infiltrated MR images. Finally, we assess the segmentation accuracy (Dice similarity coefficient).Statistical TestsA Wilcoxon signed rank test was performed to assess whether differences in segmentation accuracy are significant.ResultsThe mean Dice similarity coefficients significantly increase from 0.84–0.88 (P < 0.01) using data augmentation if training is performed with mixed data and from 0.59–0.87 (P < 0.001) if training is conducted with healthy subjects only.Data ConclusionDomain‐specific data adaptation is highly suitable for facilitating neural network‐based segmentation of thighs with feasible manual effort for creating training data. The results even suggest an approach completely bypassing manual annotations.Level of Evidence: 4Technical Efficacy: Stage 3
Dynamic susceptibility contrast parametric imaging using accelerated dual‐contrast echo planar imaging with keyhole
Authors: Caldeira Liliana L. , Yun Seong Dae , da Silva Nuno A. , Filss Christian , Shah N. Jon 
Published: January 2019

BackgroundEcho planar imaging (EPI) is one of the methods of choice in dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI (DSC‐MRI) because it provides a sufficient temporal resolution. However, the relatively long readout duration of EPI often imposes limitations on increased spatial coverage or the use of multiple contrasts.PurposeTo develop a DSC‐MRI method using EPIK (EPI with keyhole) to provide dual‐contrast (TE1 and TE2) information with a higher spatial coverage than EPI. To compare results from the community‐standard EPI method and the proposed EPIK method.Study TypeProspective.SubjectsOne healthy subject and 17 brain tumor patients.Field Strength/Sequence3 T/accelerated EPI and dual‐contrast EPIK sequences.AssessmentAfter an initial evaluation using healthy in vivo images, the use of the proposed method for DSC‐MRI was verified with brain tumor patients. The parametric images (eg, CBF and CBV) and arterial input function (AIF), obtained from both the EPI and EPIK, were compared.Statistical TestsThe ratio of AIF peak height of the proposed method to that of EPI was computed. The ratio computation was also performed for the time‐to‐peak (TTP) in the AIF curves. From the obtained CBF and CBV maps, the tumor‐to‐brain (TBR) ratio was also calculated for each imaging method and the results were compared.ResultsFor the same temporal resolution (1.5 sec), EPIK yielded dual‐contrast (TEs of 13/33 msec) with an increased spatial coverage (24 slices) and less geometric distortions than EPI; EPI provided single contrast (TE of 32 msec) with 20 slices. The obtained parametric values (eg, AIF peak, TTP, and TBR) had similar characteristics between EPI and the proposed method.Data ConclusionThe dual‐contrast data produced by EPIK in DSC‐MRI allowed T1‐corrected parametric images without the need of second contrast injection and an enhanced estimation of the AIF.Level of Evidence: 1Technical Efficacy: Stage 1J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:628–640.
Dysregulation of miR‐146a by periodontal pathogens: A risk for acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Bagavad Gita J. , George Ann V. , Pavithra N. , Chandrasekaran S. C. , Latchumanadhas K. , Gnanamani A. 
Published: January 2019

AbstractBackgroundPeriodontitis is a polymicrobial, chronic inflammatory disease leading to loss of tooth‐supporting structures. The bacteremia, endotoxemia, and systemic low‐grade inflammation associate periodontitis with systemic illnesses such as diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease. Periodontal pathogens have been detected from atheromatous plaque by amplification of the genetic material by using specific oligonucleotide primers in polymerase chain reaction. Though the association between periodontitis and cardiovascular diseases has been ascertained by systematic reviews and meta‐analyses, its pathophysiology is not lucid. MicroRNAs are currently implicated in the regulation of many cellular processes including inflammation and may play a vital role in our understanding of this disease association. In this case‐control study, we explored the role of the inflammatory microRNA, miR‐146a, in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) subjects with and without chronic periodontitis (CP) and its regulation of the innate immune host response to periodontal pathogens.MethodsThree groups each comprising 66 patients each, namely group 1 (ACS patients without CP), group 2 (ACS patients with CP) and group 3 (CP only) formed the study population. Subgingival plaque samples and serum samples were subjected to quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) for detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis, a keystone pathogen and to assess the levels of circulating miR‐146a and associated proinflammatory cytokines.ResultsmiR‐146a associated significantly in group 2 subjects with an odds ratio 1.434, 95% confidence interval 1.013‒2.030, P < 0.042, and a predictive percentage of 83.3% and group 1 with a predictive percentage of 76.0.% The associated cytokines interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor‐α, and IL‐1β also showed an upregulation with statistical significance (P < 0.05).ConclusionmicroRNA‐146a is a key molecule associating periodontitis with acute coronary syndrome.
Cellular antioxidant activity and in vitro intestinal permeability of phenolic compounds from four varieties of mango bark (Mangifera indica L.)
Authors: Vazquez‐Olivo Gabriela , Antunes‐Ricardo Marilena , Gutiérrez‐Uribe Janet A , Osuna‐Enciso Tomás , León‐Félix Josefina , Heredia José Basilio 
Published: January 2019

AbstractBACKGROUNDMango bark is an important agro‐industrial residue from mango pruning. In traditional medicine, the aqueous extract from mango bark (MBE) has been used in ethnomedicine for the treatment of many diseases. However, there is scarce information using cellular models to evaluate the potential use of this plant material for human consumption. In this study, the phenolic content from the MBE from four varieties (Kent, Keitt, Ataulfo and Tommy Atkins) was analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to photodiode array detector (HPLC‐DAD) and liquid chromatography coupled with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (LC/MS‐TOF). Additionally, the cellular antioxidant activity of the MBE from the four mango varieties were compared. Finally, the intestinal permeability of the main polyphenols found in the MBE (mangiferin and gallic acid) was evaluated.RESULTSMangiferin and gallic acid were the main constituents in the MBE from the four mango varieties. Furthermore, the Ataulfo variety showed the highest cellular antioxidant activity (67%) at the concentration of 100 µg mL−1. The intestinal permeability of mangiferin present in the bark extracts was 3‐ to 4.8‐fold higher than those of mangiferin as standard, whereas the intestinal permeability of gallic acid varied among the tested extracts.CONCLUSIONMBE has the potential to exert antioxidant activity at the cellular level and can have an impact on human health. It may also be a good source for the extraction of polyphenols mainly mangiferin. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Climate change and nutria range expansion in the Eastern United States
Authors: Hilts Dylan J. , Belitz Michael W. , Gehring Thomas M. , Pangle Kevin L. , Uzarski Donald G. 
Published: January 2019

ABSTRACTNutria (Myocastor coypus) are an introduced invasive species expanding their range in North America and may have detrimental effects on wetlands. Little is known about habitat covariates that may limit or enhance range expansion of nutria, especially when combined with predicted changes in climate. We used a hierarchical modeling approach to develop broad‐ and local‐scale maximum entropy (MaxEnt) models based on nutria harvest records in the eastern United States from 2006–2015. We developed models for current conditions and for climate change projections in 2050. At a broad scale, nutria habitat was located in areas with ≤80 annual freezing days. At local scales, nutria were found in areas with high proportions of freshwater forested‐shrub wetlands close to other wetlands. Managers who are concerned about possible nutria range expansion can use this hierarchical modeling framework to identify areas for surveillance and prioritize control efforts. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Sediment yield at southwest Ethiopia's forest frontier
Authors: Kassa Henok , Frankl Amaury , Dondeyne Stefaan , Poesen Jean , Nyssen Jan 
Published: January 2019

AbstractDeforestation is one of the major factors affecting soil erosion in tropical regions but to what extent does the crop growth in deforested areas protect the land from erosion? We evaluated the effect of deforestation on suspended sediment yield at the scale of zero‐order catchments by contrasting five paired small forest and cropland catchments at Ethiopia's southwestern forest frontier. Suspended sediment samples were collected from nine San Dimas flumes and one V‐notch weir installed in catchments draining the natural forest and cropland, at different altitudes. The suspended sediment data were collected from June 8 to October 30, 2013 and 2014. The suspended sediment yield of both land‐use types was strongly correlated with the corresponding runoff discharge. The results show that the average seasonal suspended sediment yield from cropland (17.0 ± 7.6 Mg ha−1) is four times higher than from the paired forests (4.0 ± 1.9 Mg ha−1). High sediment yields from forests are related to livestock grazing, but forests still have an important role in the protection of the surface soil from erosion at southwest Ethiopia's forest frontier. Land management in southwestern Ethiopia's highlands will need a strong change in paradigm, in which the overall belief in the recently imported mahrasha ard plough is abandoned, oxen and other cattle decreased in number and kept in homesteads, the forests being protected from human and livestock interferences and the open farmlands turned into agroforestry. Such an approach is still possible as all required elements are available in the landscape.
Secchi Day: Bridging the Gap between Source and Tap
Authors: Rich Matthew W. 
Published: January 2019

AbstractIndividual knowledge of the source of one's drinking water is imperative in preserving that source for future generations. Ensuring that drinking water sources remain viable is a goal that researchers, water treatment managers, and water quality conservationists can work toward for the entirety of a career. However, without public buy‐in, the monumental task of source water protection, in the face of cultural eutrophication, would not be possible. In an effort to educate the citizenry of Northwest Arkansas about the source of their safe, clean drinking water, Beaver Water District has initiated Secchi Day on Beaver Lake, a citizen science engagement program, now in its 13th year, that aims to bridge the gap between source and tap. One of the most difficult aspects of a citizen science project as large as this one is the recruitment and retention of interested volunteers that help build this valuable long‐term data set. We hope that you will learn from our mistakes and successes and find helpful information that you can use to bolster support for your own project.
Analyzing Thermal Conductivity of Polyethylene‐Based Compounds Filled with Copper
Authors: Weingrill Helena , Hohenauer Wolfgang , Resch‐Fauster Katharina , Zauner Christoph 
Published: January 2019

AbstractThe thermal conductivity (TC) of different polymeric materials is measured via four commercially available testing devices: TPS2500S by Hot Disk (Hot Disk), Transient Hot Bridge (THB) by Linseis, the Laser Flash Analysis (LFA) by NETZSCH, and the DTC‐300 by TA Instruments. The investigated materials include high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) and linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) which are analyzed as received and after being compounded with copper particles. The filler geometry and ratio are varied systematically. Major differences in the TC generated by the different measurement methods are revealed and analyzed in detail. Moreover, material‐induced impacts on the TC as well as technology‐induced impacts on the TC are outlined comprehensively.
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

PurposeTo 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 MaterialsConcentrations 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.ResultsAcceptable 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.ConclusionBased 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

AbstractIntroduction: 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

Abstract
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 (&gt;4,000 m/d) than angled fish (&lt;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

AimsTo 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.MethodsBladder 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.ResultsSixty 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.ConclusionsThe 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

AimTo validate an electronic 3‐day bladder diary (BD) as an easy‐to‐use app for smart‐phone (eDM3d).MethodsDescriptive 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?”ResultsOne 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.ConclusionThe eDM3d presents suitable feasibility, reliability, and validity to assess patients with OABs or nocturia who have a smart‐phone.