bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Eikonal surface wave tomography with smoothing splines—application to Southern California
Authors: Chevrot Sébastien , Lehujeur Maximilien 
Published: January 2022

SUMMARY
The densification of both permanent and temporary seismic networks has raised new interest in surface wave eikonal tomography from which phase velocity maps can be obtained without resolving a tomographic inverse problem. However, eikonal tomography requires to reconstruct traveltime surfaces from a discrete number of measurements obtained at the station locations, which can be challenging. We present a new method to reconstruct these traveltime surfaces with smoothing splines discretized in a regular 2-D Cartesian grid. We impose Neumann boundary conditions so that the phase gradients on the edges of the grid are equal to the apparent slownesses of the average plane wave along the normal direction measured by beamforming. Using the eikonal equation, phase velocity maps are then derived from the norm of the gradient of the interpolated traveltime maps. The method is applied to Rayleigh waves recorded by the Southern California Seismic Network to derive phase velocity surfaces. Robust, stable and finely resolved phase velocity maps at 25 and 33 s period are obtained after averaging the phase velocity maps derived from the analysis of a selection of recent large (Mw ≥ 6.5) teleseismic events. The phase velocity map at 25 s mainly constrains the thickness of the Southern California crust, with results that are in excellent agreement with previous tomographic studies.
Optimization of seismic-guided 3-D marine magnetotelluric imaging in a complex fold-thrust belt setting in NW Borneo, Malaysia
Authors: Saleh Ahmad Shahir bin , Meju Max A , Ismail Nur Azwin binti , Nawawi bin Mohd Nordin Mohd 
Published: January 2022

SUMMARY
The use of seismic-derived structure tensor to guide the inversion of non-seismic data has been gaining increasing attention because of its ability to constrain the inversion result to honour structural information from seismic reflectivity. While the cross-gradient method has been recently adapted to this problem, there is a need to further examine how the choice of the various regularization weighting factors and the design of the starting model impact the image-guided results. In this paper focused on marine magnetotellurics (MT), we study several practical aspects of seismic-guided electromagnetic (EM) inversion to see on what can be improved from the current practice. We then show practical examples of how the cross-gradient method can be applied to get a more geologically pleasing model that fits the data. We also show that there are subjective choices in how to effectively apply the method. First, using a field-realistic synthetic model, we established what would be the suitable regularization weights in the vertical and horizontal directions. Secondly, for the actual 3-D survey data, we compared the use of structure tensors derived from anisotropic pre-stack depth migration (APSDM) reflectivity, high-fidelity full-waveform inversion (FWI) velocity and acoustic impedance inversion volumes to guide cross-gradient anisotropic resistivity inversion with initial half-space resistivity starting models. We determined post-facto the optimum structure tensor weights using well logs as the ground truth. We found that the initial model built using horizon-based interpolated resistivity logs from multiple wells in the anisotropic inversion guided with seismic FWI velocity gave the best match to well logs as compared to the other options. However, given that resistivity logs from multiple wells may not always be available for a robust initial model construction in frontier exploration, we suggest that the structure tensor from APSDM reflectivity data is still preferred since the APSDM reflectivity data have well-defined structural information.
Efficacy of a Carrageenan Gel in Increasing Clearance of Anal Human Papillomavirus Infections in Men: Interim Analysis of a Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Laurie Cassandra , El-Zein Mariam , Tota Joseph , Khosrow-Khavar Farzin , Tellier Pierre-Paul , Coutlée François , de Pokomandy Alexandra , Franco Eduardo L ,   Lubricant Investigation in Men to Inhibit Transmission of Human Papillomavirus Infection (LIMIT-HPV) Study Group, Rodrigues Allita , Morykon Natalia , Rodrigues Raphaela , Bouten Sheila , Shapiro Samantha , Tsyruk Olga , Leblanc Roger , Trottier Benoit , de Castro Christina , Proulx-Boucher Karène , Theriault Guillaume , Guénoun Julie , Comète Émilie 
Published: January 2022

Abstract Preclinical studies have demonstrated carrageenan’s anti–human papillomavirus (HPV) activity. We assessed efficacy of a carrageenan-based gel compared to a placebo gel in increasing the clearance of anal HPV infections among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (gbMSM). Of 255 enrolled gbMSM, 134 were HPV positive at baseline and had valid HPV results for ≥2 visits. Carrageenan did not differ from placebo in clearing all baseline infections (hazard ratio, 0.84 [95% confidence interval, .31–2.27]), based on having 2 consecutive HPV-negative visits following at least 1 HPV-positive visit. There were no remarkable differences for analyses at the HPV type level or by human immunodeficiency virus status.Clinical Trials RegistrationNCT02354144.
Influence of daptomycin dose and fosfomycin susceptibility on outcome of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium bloodstream infections treated with daptomycin and fosfomycin combination
Authors: Chuang Yu-Chung , Tseng Tai-Chung , Wang Jann-Tay , Lin Chi-Ying , Huang Sung-Hsi , Chen Yee-Chun , Chang Shan-Chwen 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Objectives
Synergistic combinations of daptomycin and β-lactam antibiotics are currently recommended for treatment of VRE bloodstream infection (BSI). The efficacy of these combinations is jeopardized by VRE inherently resistant to β-lactam antibiotics. The combination of daptomycin and fosfomycin is recommended as an alternative therapy for VRE BSI; however, clinical data to support use of this combination are lacking.

Patients and methods
We conducted a prospective observational multicentre study of patients treated with a combination of daptomycin and fosfomycin for VRE BSI during 2016–20. The primary outcome was 28 day mortality. Multivariable logistic regression was performed for outcome analysis.

Results
The study included 106 patients from 1112 VRE BSI episodes. The overall 28 day mortality was 40.6%. The median (IQR) daptomycin dose was 10.18 mg/kg (9.43–10.70). The fosfomycin dose was 16 g/day (8–22.5). Ninety-six isolates were available for MIC testing. The fosfomycin MIC was 32 mg/L in 6 (6.3%), 64 mg/L in 68 (70.8%) and ≥128 mg/L in 22 (22.9%) isolates. Independent of Charlson comorbidity index and Pitt bacteraemia score, fosfomycin MIC ≥128 mg/L [adjusted OR (aOR) = 3.05; 95% CI = 1.01–9.19; P = 0.047] and daptomycin dose (aOR = 0.64; 95% CI = 0.43–0.97; P = 0.04) predicted mortality.

Conclusions
Higher daptomycin dose and susceptibility to fosfomycin were independently associated with lower mortality in patients with VRE BSI. Our results suggest that higher doses of daptomycin are indicated for VRE BSI, whether or not it is used in combination with fosfomycin. The combination was less effective for patients with fosfomycin-resistant isolates.
Defining Transition Success for Young Adults with Inflammatory Bowel Disease According to Patients, Parents and Health Care Providers
Authors: Bihari Allison , Hamidi Nima , Seow Cynthia H , Goodman Karen J , Wine Eytan , Kroeker Karen I 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background
The transition from pediatric to adult care is associated with changes centered around the patient taking responsibility for their health. As the incidence of childhood-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing, it is important to address gaps in transition literature—specifically, the indicators signifying achievement of transition success. The study objective was to define transition success according to patients, parents, and health care providers involved in IBD transition.

Methods
This study used the method of qualitative description to conduct semi-structured interviews with patients, parents, and health care providers. During interviews, demographic information was collected, and interviews were recorded and transcribed. Data analysis was conducted independently of each group using latent content analysis. Participant recruitment continued until thematic saturation was reached within each group.

Results
Patients, parents, and health care providers all defined transition success with the theme of independence in one’s care. The theme of disease management emerged within parent and provider groups, whereas the theme of relationship with/ trust in adult care team was common to patients and parents. Additional themes of care team management, general knowledge, care stability, and health outcomes emerged within specific groups.

Conclusion
This study demonstrated differences between how patients, parents, and health care providers view transition success. This finding reveals the value of using a multifaceted definition of transition success with input from all stakeholders. Further research should prioritize the identification of factors common to patients who do not reach transition success as defined by patients, their parents, and providers.
Digging ability and digging performance in a hyporheic gravel-dwelling crayfish, the hairy crayfish Cambarus friaufi (Hobbs 1953) (Decapoda: Astacidae: Cambaridae)
Authors: Graham Zackary A , Stubbs Megan B , Loughman Zachary J 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Crayfishes are known for their ability to construct burrows, although there is intra- and interspecific variation in the complexity and reliance on such burrows. Crayfishes historically have been classified into ecological groupings based on their reliance on their burrow and the burrows connection to the water table. These ecological classifications, however, do not completely account for the behavioral diversity throughout crayfishes. One group of crayfishes that do not necessarily fit into these ecological classifications are members of the invalid subgenus Glareocola of Cambarus Erichson, 1846, which includes four species: C. brachydactylus (Hobbs, 1953), C. friaufi (Hobbs, 1953), C. polypilosus (Loughman & Williams, 2018), and C. williami (Bouchard & Bouchard 1995). All four species inhabit streams characterized by loose chert gravel, which creates ample interstitial spaces and potential access to the streambed’s hyporheic zone. We studied how one member of the Glareocola group, C. friaufi, exhibits unique morphological and behavioral adaptations that enable individuals to dig into the hyporheic zone of their natural chert substrate. We found that C. friaufi was sexually monomorphic regarding the relationship between body size and claw size, which contrasts findings from other stream-dwelling crayfish species. By evaluating the digging ability and digging performance of C. friaufi and sand, pea gravel, and their natural chert substrate, we also demonstrate how their digging ability is highly adapted to their natural chert substrate. Individuals of C. friaufi were either unable to dig or rarely dig underneath substrates other than chert. We discuss our results considering the behavioral ecology and natural history of the crayfishes within this enigmatic group.
A hybrid genetic–firefly algorithm for engineering design problems
Authors: El-Shorbagy M A , El-Refaey Adel M 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Firefly algorithm (FA) is a new random swarm search optimization algorithm that is modeled after movement and the mutual attraction of flashing fireflies. The number of fitness comparisons and attractions in the FA varies depending on the attraction model. A large number of attractions can induce search oscillations, while a small number of attractions can cause early convergence and a large number of fitness comparisons that can add to the computational time complexity. This study aims to offer H-GA–FA, a hybrid algorithm that combines two metaheuristic algorithms, the genetic algorithm (GA) and the FA, to overcome the flaws of the FA and combine the benefits of both algorithms to solve engineering design problems (EDPs). In this hybrid system, which blends the concepts of GA and FA, individuals are formed in the new generation not only by GA processes but also by FA mechanisms to prevent falling into local optima, introduce sufficient diversity of the solutions, and make equilibrium between exploration/exploitation trends. On the other hand, to deal with the violation of constraints, a chaotic process was utilized to keep the solutions feasible. The proposed hybrid algorithm H-GA–FA is tested by well-known test problems that contain a set of 17 unconstrained multimodal test functions and 7 constrained benchmark problems, where the results have confirmed the superiority of H-GA–FA overoptimization search methods. Finally, the performance of the H-GA–FA is also investigated on many EDPs. Computational results show that the H-GA–FA algorithm is competitive and better than other optimization algorithms that solve EDPs.
A new approach for writer verification based on segments of handwritten graphemes
Authors: Aubin Verónica , Mora Marco , Santos Matilde 
Published: January 2022

Abstract
Traditional literature considers complex biometric sources such as words, letters and signatures for writer verification/identification. In this work the use of small segments of the handwritten stroke for writer verification is proposed. A grapheme is defined as the concatenation of smaller segments or fragments. Two models of grapheme are developed based on the idea that the segments are parts of a circle with or without direction. The average of Gray Level of the Perpendicular Line to the Skeleton and Local Binary Pattern are adopted as descriptors. A database of 3,000 images of 50 writers, with 6 types of segments and with 10 samples per segment has been developed. A binary output support vector machine was applied as classifier. Thus, 50 classifiers were trained using 100 balanced data sets generated using subsampling of the majority class. Experiments are carried out with the proposed models, with an identity verification hit rate of 97 % on average. The positive results of experiments show that it is possible to achieve high precision in writer verification using segment of graphemes.
Olaparib in patients with mCRPC with homologous recombination repair gene alterations: PROfound Asian subset analysis
Authors: Matsubara Nobuaki , Nishimura Kazuo , Kawakami Satoru , Joung Jae Young , Uemura Hiroji , Goto Takayuki , Kwon Tae Gyun , Sugimoto Mikio , Kato Masashi , Wang Shian-Shiang , Pang See-Tong , Chen Chung-Hsin , Fujita Tomoko , Nii Masahiro , Shen Liji , Dujka Melanie , Hussain Maha , de Bono Johann 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background
The Phase III PROfound study (NCT02987543) evaluated olaparib versus abiraterone or enzalutamide (control; randomized 2:1 to olaparib or control) in men with homologous recombination repair gene alterations and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer whose disease progressed on prior next-generation hormonal agent.

Methods
We present efficacy and safety data from an exploratory post hoc analysis of olaparib in the PROfound Asian subset. Analyses were not planned, alpha controlled or powered. Of 101 Asian patients enrolled in Japan (n=57), South Korea (n=29) and Taiwan (n=15), 66 and 35 patients received olaparib and control, respectively.

Results
Radiographic progression-free survival (rPFS) and overall survival (OS) favored olaparib versus control in Cohort A [rPFS 7.2 vs. 4.5 months, HR 0.58, 95% CI 0.29–1.21, P = 0.14 (nominal); OS 23.4 vs. 17.8 months, HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.40–1.74, P = 0.57 (nominal)] and Cohorts A+B [rPFS 5.8 vs. 3.5 months, HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.42–1.16, P = 0.13 (nominal); OS 18.6 vs. 16.2 months, HR 0.96, 95% CI 0.56–1.70, P = 0.9 (nominal)]. Olaparib showed greatest improvement in patients harboring BRCA alterations [rPFS 9.3 vs. 3.5 months, HR 0.17, 95% CI 0.06–0.49, P = 0.0003 (nominal); OS 26.8 vs. 14.3 months, HR 0.62, 95% CI 0.24–1.79, P = 0.34 (nominal)]. Safety data were consistent with the known profile of olaparib, with no new safety signals identified.

Conclusion
In PROfound, there was a statistically significant improvement in outcomes reported in the global population of patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer and alterations in homologous recombination repair genes whose disease progressed on prior next-generation hormonal agent compared with control. For the subset of Asian patients reported here, exploratory analysis suggested that there was also an improvement in outcomes versus control. The safety and tolerability of olaparib in Asian patients were similar to that of the PROfound global population.

Clinical trial number
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02987543
Small mammal dynamics in snow-covered forests
Authors: Scott Allison M , Gilbert Jonathan H , Pauli Jonathan N 
Published: January 2022

AbstractIn seasonal environments, the winter months can drive the structure and dynamics of vertebrate communities. Most ecological studies have focused on species above the snow, overlooking those within the subnivium (below-snow environment). The Great Lakes region of North America is characterized by seasonal snow cover and a diverse assemblage of small mammals, both of which are changing rapidly in response to a changing climate. To study the seasonal dynamics of small mammals, we sampled communities in three forest types (hardwood, hemlock-cedar, and spruce bog) in summer and winter over 2 years. We hypothesized that seasonal differences in communities would be moderated by forest structure in summer and snow in winter. We assessed community dominance via species diversity and the abundances of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus), white-footed mice (P. leucopus), and southern red-backed voles (Myodes gapperi). We estimated a Community Temperature Index (CTI; a metric of the balance between warm- and cold-adapted species in a community) and tested seasonal drivers of CTI. Species diversity was highest in spruce bogs in winter due to increased species evenness, but diversity was consistent year-round in hardwood and hemlock-cedar forests due to unchanging species dominance. Spruce bogs supported the coldest CTI in summer, but CTIs converged across forest types in winter. In summer, forest structure drove CTI; in winter, colder CTIs were associated with deeper snow and a warmer subnivium. Our work reveals that snow is a critical habitat and filter for cold-adapted species that ultimately structures small mammal communities. Given rapid changes in snow conditions due to climate change, we predict continued range contractions for subnivium-adapted species.
Forage selection by Masai giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) at multiple spatial scales
Authors: Levi Matana , Lee Derek E , Bond Monica L , Treydte Anna C 
Published: January 2022

AbstractManagement of rangelands requires knowledge of forage species that are preferred or avoided by wildlife and livestock. A recent expansion of woody vegetation into previously open grasslands in African savanna ecosystems negatively impacts many mammalian grazers. Nevertheless, the ecological role of bush encroacher plant species as food may present a benefit for browsing species. We quantified diet selection by Masai giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi) through foraging observations and vegetation sampling in the Tarangire Ecosystem of Tanzania, which includes large areas of a native shrub that livestock managers have classified as an encroacher species (Dichrostachys cinerea). We compared woody plant species used by giraffes for foraging with availability at two different spatial scales during the wet and dry seasons. Giraffes selected some woody plants such as Vachellia species while significantly avoiding others, both at the local and landscape scales. Giraffes preferred foraging on D. cinerea at both spatial scales and in both the wet and dry seasons. Management that has focused on benefiting grazing livestock by removal of encroaching species (e.g., D. cinerea) may have unintended consequences for wildlife, especially for browsing species like giraffes that feed extensively on the expanding bush species.
Persistent abdominal symptoms in returning travellers: clinical and molecular findings
Authors: Gefen-Halevi Shiraz , Biber Asaf , Gazit Zeala , Amit Sharon , Belausov Natasha , Keller Nati , Smollan Gill , Schwartz Eli 
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background
Persistent abdominal symptoms (PAS) are the leading cause of post-travel morbidity although there is a paucity of evidence concerning the aetiology of this condition. Recently molecular methods for protozoa detection in stool have been introduced. Herein, we describe the clinical aspects and the prevalence of gastrointestinal protozoa in returning travellers with PAS.

Methods
From 2017 to 2019, clinical information and stool specimens from returning travellers with PAS were analysed for the presence of parasites using the Allplex-GI-Parasite-assay. Stool findings from symptomatic patients without a travel history were used as a comparator.

Results
During the 2-year study, 203 stool specimens from returning travellers were analysed. The median duration of symptoms before seeking care was 6 months, the most common symptoms were fatigue (79.2%), abdominal pain (75.7%) and loose stool (70.8%).
Most of travellers had returned from Asia (57.6%), mainly from the Indian-subcontinent and only 52.6% were backpackers. Altogether, 36.9% samples were positive for protozoa, with Blastocystis hominis being the most common (26.6%) in samples, followed by Dientamoeba fragilis (18.7%), Giardia lamblia (3.0%) and Cryptosporidium spp (0.5%). The former two were dominant in all regions. In all cases but one, G. lamblia was acquired, but one were acquired in the Indian subcontinent (odds ratios 16.9; 95% confidence intervals: 1.9–148.3). Entamoeba histolytica was not detected. The demographic characterization of the 1359 non-travellers was comparable with the travellers. Among them D. fragilis was the most common followed by B. hominis, which was significantly less frequent compared among the travellers (16.7% vs 26.6%, P &lt; 0.001). Average Cycle threshold values for each stool parasites were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusion
Among returning travellers with PAS, more than one-third were positive for gastrointestinal protozoa. A low rate of giardia was found and no E. histolytica while B. hominis followed by D. fragilis were the dominant findings. Further studies are required to better understand the role of these protozoa in PAS.