bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physical Understanding of Human-Induced Changes in U.S. Hot Droughts Using Equilibrium Climate Simulations
Authors: Cheng Linyin , Hoerling Martin , Liu Zhiyong , Eischeid Jon 
Published: April 2019

AbstractAlthough the link between droughts and heat waves is widely recognized, how climate change affects this link remains uncertain. Here we assess how, and by how much, human-induced climate change affects summertime hot drought compound events over the contiguous United States. Results are derived by comparing hot drought statistics in long simulations of a coupled climate model (CESM1) subjected to year-1850 and year-2000 radiative forcings. Within each climate state, a strong and nonlinear dependency of heat-wave intensity on drought severity is found in water-limited regions of the southern Great Plains and southwestern United States whereas heat-wave intensity is found to be insensitive to drought severity in energy-limited regions of the northern and/or northeastern United States. Applying a statistical model that is based on pair-copula constructions, we find that anthropogenic warming leads to enhanced soil moisture–temperature coupling in water-limited areas of the southern Great Plains and/or southwestern United States and consequently amplifies the intensity of extreme heat waves during severe droughts. This strengthened coupling accounts for a substantial fraction of rising temperature extremes related to the long-term climate change in CESM1, highlighting the importance of changes in land–atmosphere feedback in a warmer climate. In contrast, coupling effects remain weak and largely unchanged in energy-limited regions, thereby yielding no appreciable contribution to heat-wave intensification over the northern and/or northeastern United States apart from the long-term warming effects.
Interannual Relationship between the Boreal Spring Arctic Oscillation and the Northern Hemisphere Hadley Circulation Extent
Authors: Hu Dingzhu , Guo Yi-Peng , Tan Zhe-Min , Guan Zhaoyong 
Published: April 2019

AbstractThis study investigates the interannual relationship and the dynamical linkage between the boreal spring Arctic Oscillation (AO) and the Northern Hemisphere Hadley circulation extent (HCE). The spring AO is positively correlated with the HCE, with one standard positive deviation of the AO index corresponding to approximately 0.42° latitude poleward shift of the HCE. The interaction between the planetary wave and the zonal winds over the subtropics results in an anomalous eddy momentum flux divergence, which shifts the HCE poleward. The AO related transient eddy momentum flux divergence makes nearly 2 times larger contributions than those of the stationary component to the HCE change. The increased equatorward transient wave flux over the subtropics is possibly related to the larger meridional gradient of the transient wave refractive index there. The AO positive phase corresponds to an enhanced planetary wave propagation from the midlatitude Atlantic Ocean to the subtropics, which resembles the North Atlantic Oscillation pattern. The autumn and winter AO–HCE relationship is similar to that during spring, while summer has the weakest relationship, which could be mainly attributed to the far poleward extension of the climatological HCE during summer.
Applications of starch and its derivatives in bioceramics
Authors: Mastalska-Popławska Joanna , Sikora Marek , Izak Piotr , Góral Zuzanna 
Published: April 2019

The recent developments in the area of using starch in ceramics cover such fields like ceramic powders synthesis, where starch can be a polymerizing agent in sol–gel method or substrate for carbon spheres in hydrothermal synthesis, traditional ceramics manufacturing in which starch and its derivatives are being used as binders, rheological modifiers or even strengthening agents, as well as porous ceramics and bioceramics where starch plays mostly a role of pore forming agent. Due to the low dimensional changes occurring during the consolidation process, starch can help to control porosity of the bioceramics, which leads to better mechanical properties of the final product. Because of the gelation at low temperatures, it can be used as eco-friendly cross-linking agent for the synthesis of bioceramics, which shortens the process, as well. The goal of this work was to demonstrate the reader a broad range of starch applications in bioceramics. Because of its eco-friendly properties, ability to transformation into different compounds or being a good source of carbon etc., starch and its derivatives found a lot interest in the area of bioceramics manufacturing. In this study, due to the amount of available materials, attention was paid to the works written after 2005.
A complex case of haemodialysis induced increased intraocular pressure
Authors: Babiker Salma , Elsayed Mohamed E , Dhaygude Ajay , Madgula Indira 
Published: April 2019

Purpose: To describe a case of intraocular pressure fluctuation during haemodialysis in a patient with previously treated proliferative diabetic retinopathy and previous unilateral angle neovascularisation. Case description: A 63-year-old male with end-stage renal disease on maintenance haemodialysis and recurrent episodes of symptomatic intraocular pressure rise during dialysis sessions. Higher intraocular pressure spikes occurred in the eye with previous angle new vessels. Outcome: Topical antihypertensive drops failed to control the intraocular pressure. Due to multiple co-morbidities, options of medical management were deemed unsuitable; those included intravenous mannitol, systemic acetazolamide and intravenous glucose. Furthermore, modifications of his dialysis prescription did not lead to satisfactory results. As a consequence, the patient underwent trabeculectomy with mitomycin C. Adequate control of his intraocular pressure was achieved post-operatively. Conclusion: Intraocular pressure fluctuations during haemodialysis are not fully understood, and management can be quite challenging to the treating ophthalmologists and nephrologists. In this case report, we discuss some of those difficulties and different treatment options.
Longitudinal cortical network reorganization in early relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Fleischer Vinzenz , Koirala Nabin , Droby Amgad , Gracien René-Maxime , Deichmann Ralf , Ziemann Ulf , Meuth Sven G. , Muthuraman Muthuraman , Zipp Frauke , Groppa Sergiu 
Published: April 2019

Background: Network science provides powerful access to essential organizational principles of the brain. The aim of this study was to investigate longitudinal evolution of gray matter networks in early relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) compared with healthy controls (HCs) and contrast network dynamics with conventional atrophy measurements. Methods: For our longitudinal study, we investigated structural cortical networks over 1 year derived from 3T MRI in 203 individuals (92 early RRMS patients with mean disease duration of 12.1 ± 14.5 months and 101 HCs). Brain networks were computed based on cortical thickness inter-regional correlations and fed into graph theoretical analysis. Network connectivity measures (modularity, clustering coefficient, local efficiency, and transitivity) were compared between patients and HCs, and between patients with and without disease activity. Moreover, we calculated longitudinal brain volume changes and cortical atrophy patterns. Results: Our analyses revealed strengthening of local network properties shown by increased modularity, clustering coefficient, local efficiency, and transitivity over time. These network dynamics were not detectable in the cortex of HCs over the same period and occurred independently of patients’ disease activity. Most notably, the described network reorganization was evident beyond detectable atrophy as characterized by conventional morphometric methods. Conclusion: In conclusion, our findings provide evidence for gray matter network reorganization subsequent to clinical disease manifestation in patients with early RRMS. An adaptive cortical response with increased local network characteristics favoring network segregation could play a primordial role for maintaining brain function in response to neuroinflammation.
Syndesmotic Screw Removal in a Clinic Setting Is Safe and Cost-effective
Authors: Sugi Michelle T. , Ortega Brandon , Shepherd Lane , Zalavras Charalampos 
Published: April 2019

Background. There is no consensus in the literature regarding the necessity of syndesmotic screw removal, but the majority of surgeons prefer screw removal in the operating room. Purpose. The aim of this study is to analyze the safety and cost-effectiveness of syndesmotic screw removal in the clinic. Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed on all acute, traumatic ankle fractures that required syndesmotic stabilization over 5 years at a level 1 trauma center. Radiographs were evaluated for maintenance of syndesmotic reduction. Orthopaedic clinic visits and operating room costs were calculated. Results. Of 269 patients, syndesmotic screws were successfully removed in the clinic in 170 patients and retained in 99 patients. Two superficial infections (1.2%) developed following screw removal. The superficial infection rate was 3.3% (2 of 60) in patients who did not receive antibiotics compared with 0% (0 of 110) in patients who received antibiotics (P = .12). No patient lost syndesmotic reduction after screw removal. Cost savings of $13 829 per patient were achieved by syndesmotic screw removal in the clinic. Conclusion. Our study demonstrates that syndesmotic screw removal in the clinic is safe, does not result in tibiofibular diastasis, is cost-effective, and results in substantial financial savings. Level of Evidence: Level IV
Detection of recurrent brain tumors in children: No significant difference in sensitivity between unenhanced and contrast-enhanced MRI
Authors: Bouzidi Yasmina , Barteau Emmanuel , Lejeune Julien , Dejobert Maelle , Gravellier Bastien , Sirinelli Dominique , Cottier Jean Philippe , Morel Baptiste 
Published: April 2019

Background Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with a gadolinium injection is currently used in the follow-up of children in remission of cerebral tumors (CTs). Intracerebral gadolinium deposition has been recently reported with unknown risks. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of unenhanced brain MRI (U-MRI) in detection of tumor recurrence. Methods and materials A set of 58 U-MRIs of children in remission was retrospectively evaluated by three seniors (a neuroradiologist, a pediatric and a general radiologist) and one junior to look for any recurrence. Clinical, tumoral and imaging data were collected. The final diagnosis was anatomopathological when available, or the clinicoradiological evolution. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values and interobserver agreement were calculated. A Fisher test and Fleiss kappa coefficient were performed. Results For the seniors, the U-MRI had a sensitivity of 81% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.56–0.90), and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 82% (95% CI: 0.63–0.94). The U-MRI sensitivity, regardless of the observer, was not significantly different from the contrast-enhanced MRI sensitivity (86%) according to a Fisher test ( p > 0.05). No significant difference in sensitivity within the subgroups was found. The interobserver agreement of seniors was good (κ = 0.68). Conclusion U-MRI brain was suboptimal for 80% of patients. Three-dimensional millimetric, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, and diffusion would constitute helpful sequences in follow-up. Further specific studies depending on each tumor type are still required to determine whether a potential abstention of gadolinium intravenous injection should be discussed for children.
Risk stratification in normotensive acute pulmonary embolism patients: focus on the intermediate–high risk subgroup
Authors: Santos Ana Rita , Freitas Pedro , Ferreira Jorge , Oliveira Afonso , Gonçalves Mariana , Faria Daniel , Bicho Augusto João , Simões Joana , Santos Ana , Gago Miguel , Oliveira João , Antunes Ricardo Mamede , Correia David , Lynce Ana , Brito João , Morais Carlos , Campos Luís , Mendes Miguel 
Published: April 2019

Background: Patients with acute pulmonary embolism are at intermediate–high risk in the presence of imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction plus one or more elevated cardiac biomarker. We hypothesised that intermediate–high risk patients with two elevated cardiac biomarkers and imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction have a worse prognosis than those with one cardiac biomarker and imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction. Methods: We analysed the cumulative presence of cardiac biomarkers and imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction in 525 patients with intermediate risk pulmonary embolism (intermediate-high risk = 237) presenting at the emergency department in two centres. Studied endpoints were composites of all-cause mortality and/or rescue thrombolysis at 30 days (primary endpoint; n=58) and pulmonary embolism-related mortality and/or rescue thrombolysis at 30 days (secondary endpoint; n=40). Results: Patients who experienced the primary endpoint showed a higher proportion of elevated troponin (47% vs. 76%, P<0.001), elevated N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (67% vs. 93%, P<0.001) and imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction (47% vs. 80%, P<0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (hazard ratio (HR) 3.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3–10.3; P=0.015) and imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction (HR 2.8, 95% CI 1.5–5.2; P=0.001) as independent predictors of events. In the intermediate–high risk group, patients with two cardiac biomarkers performed worse than those with one cardiac biomarker (HR 3.3, 95% CI 1.8–6.2; P=0.003). Conclusions: Risk stratification in normotensive pulmonary embolism should consider the cumulative presence of cardiac biomarkers and imaging signs of right ventricular dysfunction, especially in the intermediate–high risk subgroup.
Effects of mass loading on the viability of assessing the state of healing of a fixated fractured long bone
Authors: Chiu WK , Ong WH , Russ M , Tran T , Fitzgerald M 
Published: April 2019

Introduction This paper aims to evaluate the effects of mass loading on the healing assessment of an internally fixated femur by vibrational means. The presence of soft tissue surrounding a femur increases damping and mass of a system, and hence affects the vibrational response of a mechanical structure by obscuring the coherent modes. This may compromise vibration-based monitoring strategies in identifying modes associated with fracture healing. Methods This paper presents a series of experimental works to address this issue. Two osteotomised composite femurs were internally fixated using a plate-screw system and an intramedullary nail. Soft tissue is approximated by surrounding an artificial Sawbone femur with modelling clay. The femur is excited by an instrumented impact hammer and instrumented with two accelerometers to record bending and torsion modes between 0 and 600 Hz. A 30-min epoxy was applied to simulate the healing of the fractured femur in the osteotomised region. The resonant frequencies and its modes are monitored while union is being formed and a healing index is calculated at various times to quantify the degree of healing. Results The results demonstrate that the effect of modelling clay compressed the natural modes along the frequency axis. It is observed that frequency bandwidth in the vicinity of 150 Hz and 500 Hz is sensitive to the state of healing of the fixated femurs, which is due to the increase in stiffness of the osteotomised region. These findings were used to formulate the healing index which assists in identifying the initial, later and complete healing stages in conjunction with the index derivative. Conclusion In this study, a two-sensor measurement strategy to quantify fixated femur healing is investigated. It is shown that the mass loading effect did not affect this vibrational analysis method ability to assess the state of healing, and both coherent bending and twisting modes associated with healing were easily identified. The proposed healing index, its derivative, and the cross-spectra are a viable tool for quantitative healing assessment.
Effect of Whitening Toothpastes on Extrinsic Dental Stains
Authors: Shobana G.  , Muthu Karuppaiah R.  , Garla Bharath Kumar , Taranath M.  , Palanivel Pandian R.  
Published: April 2019

Aim and objectives:To compare the effectiveness of the stain removing property of the whitening toothpastes (silica [Colgate Visible White], silica, papain and bromelain [Whitospark], and silica and calcium carbonate [Snowdent] containing toothpastes) on extrinsic dental stains and to assess the lasting of tooth whitening effect produced by the whitening toothpastes.Materials and methods:It is a randomized, concurrent parallel arm, non-invasive, controlled trial designed to compare the effectiveness of the whitening toothpastes on reducing extrinsic dental stains. Parametric t-test was used.Results:A statistically significant difference can be seen between Groups A and B, Groups B and C, and Groups B and D. Maximum mean and percentage reduction was found in Group B at the end of the second month in stain extent and intensity. A statistically significant difference was seen between subgroups B1 and B2. Maximum mean and percentage reduction was found in subgroup B1 at the end of the fourth month in stain extent and intensity.Conclusion:Silica, papain, and bromelain containing toothpastes (Whitospark) show effectiveness on reducing extrinsic dental stains.
Deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 triggers adenosine-mediated NETosis and TNF production in patients with DADA2
Authors: Carmona-Rivera Carmelo , Khaznadar Sami S. , Shwin Kyawt W. , Irizarry-Caro Jorge A. , O’Neil Liam J. , Liu Yudong , Jacobson Kenneth A. , Ombrello Amanda K. , Stone Deborah L. , Tsai Wanxia L. , Kastner Daniel L. , Aksentijevich Ivona , Kaplan Mariana J. , Grayson Peter C. 
Published: April 2019

AbstractReduction of adenosine deaminase 2 (ADA2) activity due to autosomal-recessive loss-of-function mutations in the ADA2 gene (previously known as CECR1) results in a systemic vasculitis known as deficiency of ADA2 (DADA2). Neutrophils and a subset of neutrophils known as low-density granulocytes (LDGs) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of vasculitis, at least in part, through the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The study objective was to determine whether neutrophils and NETs play a pathogenic role in DADA2. In vivo evidence demonstrated NETs and macrophages in affected gastrointestinal tissue from patients with DADA2. An abundance of circulating LDGs prone to spontaneous NET formation was observed during active disease in DADA2 and were significantly reduced after remission induction by anti–tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy. Increased circulating LDGs were identified in unaffected family members with monoallelic ADA2 mutations. Adenosine triggered NET formation, particularly in neutrophils from female patients, by engaging A1 and A3 adenosine receptors (ARs) and through reactive oxygen species– and peptidylarginine deiminase–dependent pathways. Adenosine-induced NET formation was inhibited by recombinant ADA2, A1/A3 AR antagonists, or by an A2A agonist. M1 macrophages incubated with NETs derived from patients with DADA2 released significantly greater amounts of TNF-α. Treatment with an A2AAR agonist decreased nuclear translocation of NF-κB and subsequent production of inflammatory cytokines in DADA2 monocyte-derived macrophages. These results suggest that neutrophils may play a pathogenic role in DADA2. Modulation of adenosine-mediated NET formation may contribute a novel and directed therapeutic approach in the treatment of DADA2 and potentially other inflammatory diseases.
Inhibition of microRNA-103a inhibits the activation of astrocytes in hippocampus tissues and improves the pathological injury of neurons of epilepsy rats by regulating BDNF
Authors: Zheng Ping , Bin He , Chen Wei 
Published: April 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of this study is to explore the effect of microRNA-103a (miR-103a) on astrocytes activation and hippocampal neuron injury in epilepsy rats by targeting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).MethodsThe epilepsy rat model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of lithium chloride-pilocarpine. Successful modeled rats were intralateroventricularly microinjected with miR-103a inhibitors, inhibitors negative control (NC), siRNA-NC and BDNF-siRNA, respectively. The RT-qPCR and western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of miR-103a, BDNF and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in hippocampus tissues of rats. TUNEL staining was used to detect the apoptosis of hippocampal neurons. The RT-PCR and ELISA was used to detect the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in hippocampal tissues and in serum, respectively.ResultsIncreased expression of miR-103a, GFAP, and number of apoptotic neurons, decreased expression of BDNF and number of surviving neurons were found in hippocampus tissues of epilepsy rats. After miR-103a inhibitors interfered with epilepsy rats, there showed decreased expression of miR-103a and GFAP, increased expression of BDNF and decreased number of apoptotic neuron as well as increased number of surviving neurons. Compared with miR-103a inhibitors alone, epilepsy rats treated with BDNF-siRNA combined with miR-103a inhibitors significantly increased expression of GFAP in hippocampal tissues of epilepsy rats, increased number of apoptotic neurons and significantly decreased the number of surviving neurons.ConclusionOur study provides evidence that the inhibition of miR-103a can inhibit the activation of astrocytes in hippocampus tissues and improve the pathological injury of neurons of epilepsy rats by regulating BDNF gene.