bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data‐driven optimization of peer‐to‐peer lending portfolios based on the expected value framework
Authors: Byanjankar Ajay , Mezei József , Heikkilä Markku
Published: March 2021

In recent years, peer‐to‐peer (P2P) lending has been gaining popularity amongst borrowers and individual investors. This can mainly be attributed to the easy and quick access to loans and the higher possible returns. However, the risk involved in these investments is considerable, and for most investors, being nonprofessionals, this increases the complexity and the importance of investment decisions. In this study, we focus on generating optimal investment decisions to lenders for selecting loans. We treat the loan selection process in P2P lending as a portfolio optimization problem, with the aim being to select a set of loans that provide a required return while minimizing risk. In the process, we use internal rate of return as the measure of return. As the starting point of the model, we use machine‐learning algorithms to predict the default probabilities and calculate expected values for the loans based on historical data. Afterwards, we calculate the distance between loans using (i) default probabilities and, as a novel step, (ii) expected value. In the calculations, we utilize kernel functions to obtain similarity weights of loans as the input of the optimization models. Two optimization models are tested and compared on data from the popular P2P platform Lending Club. The results show that using the expected‐value framework yields higher return.
A computationally efficient Monte‐Carlo model for biomedical Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Dumont Alexander P. , Fang Qianqian , Patil Chetan A.
Published: March 2021

Monte Carlo (MC) modeling is a valuable tool to gain fundamental understanding of light‐tissue interactions, provide guidance and assessment to optical instrument designs, and help analyze experimental data. It has been a major challenge to efficiently extend MC towards modeling of bulk‐tissue Raman spectroscopy (RS) due to the wide spectral range, relatively sharp spectral features, and presence of background autofluorescence. Here, we report a computationally efficient MC approach for RS by adapting the massively‐parallel Monte Carlo eXtreme (MCX) simulator. Simulation efficiency is achieved through “isoweight,” a novel approach that combines the statistical generation of Raman scattered and Fluorescence emission with a lookup‐table‐based technique well‐suited for parallelization. The MC model uses a graphics processor to produce dense Raman and fluorescence spectra over a range of 800 − 2000 cm−1 with an approximately 100× increase in speed over prior RS Monte Carlo methods. The simulated RS signals are compared against experimentally collected spectra from gelatin phantoms, showing a strong correlation.
The Black experience: The entanglement among African American males and law enforcement
Authors: Singletary Gilbert
Published: March 2021

Objective

There is no greater existential threat to the mental stability of Black males than the entanglement among Black males and law enforcement. The impact of Black males witnessing other Black males murdered by police and broadcasted via social media and television is profound. Until recently, few studies have considered the external threats that impact this subgroup, specifically, law enforcement, and how negative experiences presents significant risks to the overall mental health of Black males.

Methods

The current study uses a qualitative methodology designed to assess the impact of Black males overall experiences with law enforcement, in addition to the residual effect of Black males witnessing other Black males murdered by police.

Results

Participants in the current study reported negative experiences with law enforcement, in addition to extreme, debilitating, psychological distress after witnessing other Black males murdered by police and broadcasted via social media and television.

Conclusion

The findings of this study contribute to the extant literature regarding Black males and the many forms of trauma that are experienced by this marginalized subgroup. Moreover, the rich narratives provided by the participants provide a window into the adversarial relationship between Black males and law enforcement.
Pivotal response treatment for autism: A brief report on training for rural communities
Authors: Dahiya Angela V. , Openden Daniel , Ostmeyer Katrina F. , Anderson Rachel M. , Scarpa Angela
Published: March 2021

Many providers from rural communities feel ill‐prepared to treat children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Cost‐effective training in Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT), an evidence‐based ASD treatment, can address unmet needs for rural communities. The current study examined a 1‐day general PRT workshop for parents and professionals followed by a 3‐day small, intensive training for professionals. Fifty‐two parents and providers completed surveys before and after Day 1, indicating improvements in perceived stress and confidence. Three providers were trained during Days 2–4, and submitted four 10‐min videos (i.e., baseline, 1‐week, 1‐month, and 2‐months post‐training) working with a target child discussed in the training and another child. Videos were coded for correct PRT implementation and analyzed using a single‐subject A–B design with generalization and maintenance probes. All providers learned to apply PRT techniques with the target child and generalized skills to another child within 1‐week post‐training, with partial maintenance. Implications for rural mental health training in evidence‐based practices are discussed.
Remote delivery of a therapeutic intervention to court‐mandated youths of Haitian descent during COVID‐19
Authors: Marcelin Louis Herns , Cela Toni , Dembo Richard , Jean‐Gilles Michèle , Page Bryan , Demezier Danna , Clement Roy , Waldman Rachel
Published: March 2021

The threat generated by the COVID‐19 pandemic has triggered sudden institutional changes in an effort to reduce viral spread. Restrictions on group gatherings and in‐person engagement have increased the demand for remote service delivery. These restrictions have also affected the delivery of court‐mandated interventions. However, much of the literature has focused on populations that voluntarily seek out face‐to‐face medical care or mental health services, whereas insufficient attention has been paid to telehealth engagement of court‐mandated populations. This article draws on data gathered on an NIH/NIDA‐funded study intervention implemented with juvenile justice‐involved youths of Haitian heritage in Miami‐Dade County, Florida, during the COVID‐19 public health crisis. We explore the process of obtaining consent, technological access issues, managing privacy, and other challenges associated with remote delivery of family‐based therapy to juvenile justice‐involved youth. Our aim is to provide some insights for consideration by therapists, healthcare workers, advocates, researchers, and policymakers tasked with finding alternative and safer ways to engage nontraditional populations in health services. The clinical trial registration number is NCT03876171.
Evaluating parental genetic knowledge of hearing loss with and without pre‐test genetic counseling in a pediatric otolaryngology clinic
Authors: Davis Dillon , Oakes Lisa , Raol Nikhila , Mighion Lindsey , Dedhia Kavita
Published: March 2021

This study evaluated parental knowledge of genetics of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and satisfaction following pre‐test consult with and without genetic counseling (GC). A survey evaluating parents’ knowledge of genetics for SNHL with and without GC was administered to parents of children with SNHL who were offered genetic testing. The survey also inquired about satisfaction, and decision to pursue genetic testing. Statistical tests included Fisher–Freeman–Halton test and Mann–Whitney test. Forty‐nine participants completed the survey and were seen by both otolaryngology and GC intern (ENT + GC) (n = 24) or by otolaryngology (ENT) only (n = 25). Participation groups were not randomized. There were no significant differences in demographics between groups. Participants in the ENT + GC group had higher average genetics knowledge score of 72% correct (range 22%–100%), compared to the ENT only group with 44% (range 22%–78%) (p < .001). Participants in the ENT + GC group were more likely to know the different test result possibilities (p = .002), the most common form and pathogenic variant associated with SNHL (p < .001), that only a subset of genes are evaluated (p = .004), and that genetic testing may not explain SNHL etiology (p = .013), in comparison with the ENT only group. There was no significant difference in parental satisfaction or ultimate decision to undergo testing between groups. Obtaining genetic testing plays an integral role in the diagnosis and management of SNHL in the pediatric population. Our results suggest that the addition of GC increases parent knowledge of genetics and SNHL. This knowledge allows the family to make a more informed decision as to whether or not to pursue genetic testing.
Preparing genetic counselors to serve Native American communities
Authors: Freeman Abigail A. , Arbuckle Jacquelynn , Petty Elizabeth M.
Published: March 2021

As a medical specialty, genetic counseling (GC) espouses cultural sensitivity, a patient‐centered approach, and an eye for the individual, familial, and community‐wide implications of genetics and genomics in medicine. Within the past decades, the field of GC has recognized and attempted to address a need for the greater diversity of providers and practice settings that will help to address health inequities across underrepresented communities (Channaoui et al., 2020). Accreditation for GC training programs mandates equipping students with multicultural sensitivity and knowledge on health disparities. Currently however, there are limited published data about how GC programs are accomplishing these aims for Native American individuals and communities. Furthermore, there are limited published data on the unique needs and perspectives of Native Americans who may seek GC services. This disconnect may pose barriers for genetic counselors who aim to provide respectful and relevant care to Native American patients. Education of GC students is one important way to set the tone for a lifetime of practice and to inspire awareness and action toward alleviating disparities. Thus, we surveyed GC training programs in North America to investigate how they are working to (a) address disparities in Native American professional representation and student enrollment, (b) deliver culturally relevant curricula and clinical opportunities that serve the needs of Native Americans, and (c) positively engage Native American communities in North America. We found that reported recruitment efforts, curricula content, clinical opportunities, and community engagement efforts to address the needs of Native American are limited across GC training programs surveyed. By bringing awareness to current methods, success factors, and barriers in this space, we hope to open the door for meaningful partnerships between leaders of Native American communities and GC training programs in the pursuit of greater equity.
COVID contingencies: Early epicenter experiences of different genetics clinics at a New York City institution inform emergency adaptation strategies
Authors: Ahimaz Priyanka , Giordano Jessica , Disco Michele , Harrington Elizabeth , Levinson Elana , Spiegel Erica , Andrews Carli , Griffin Emily , Hernan Rebecca , Wynn Julia
Published: March 2021

The unique situational challenges of the COVID‐19 pandemic have demanded creative modifications to the delivery of genetic services. Institutions across the country have adapted workflows to continue to provide quality care while minimizing the need for physical visits. As the first epicenter of the pandemic in the country, New York City healthcare workers and residents had to make rapid, unprecedented changes to their way of life. This article describes the workflow adaptations of genetic counselors across various clinical settings at New York Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, the largest provider of genetics care in New York City, during the height of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The authors observe how the adaptations impacted clinical care and the genetic counselors. Our lived experience and account can provide guidance for others during the current and future pandemics.
Current progress in systemic therapy for biliary tract cancers
Authors: Sutherland Margaret , Ahmed Osama , Zaidi Adnan , Ahmed Shahid
Published: March 2021

Background

Biliary tract cancers (BTCs) are heterogeneous cancers that include cancers of the bile duct and gallbladder. Although they are relatively uncommon, most patients with BTC are diagnosed at advanced‐stage disease with high mortality rates. Recently, systemic therapy options for patients with BTC have evolved. This paper reviews recent advancements in systemic therapy and the results of key clinical trials in BTC.

Methods

A literature search in PubMed and Google Scholar was performed using keywords related to BTC and systemic therapy. Studies that were presented in major international cancer research conferences were also included.

Results

The evidence shows that adjuvant capecitabine has been associated with a lower relapse rate in early‐stage BTC. In unselected patients with advanced BTC, combination chemotherapy is a standard treatment option. However, with a better understanding of the molecular profile of BTC, there has been a shift toward targeted agents in BTC that have shown promising responses. The evolving data also support the evolving role of immunotherapy in patients with deficient DNA mismatch repair or PD‐L1‐positive BTC.

Discussion

Systemic treatment options for BTC have improved. The future identification of new targets, novel compounds, and predictive markers is a key step toward the use of personalized medicine in BTC.
Effect of posture and femoral neck osteochondroplasty on femur‐acetabulum clearance in patients with cam‐type femoroacetabular impingement
Authors: Wilson David R. , Zhang Honglin , Jones Carly E. , Gilbart Michael K. , Masri Bassam A.
Published: March 2021

It is not clear whether femoral neck osteochondroplasty achieves its objective of increasing femoroacetabular clearance. We used an upright open magnetic resonance imaging scanner to image the hip joint in multiple postures to explore the effect of posture and femoral neck osteochondroplasty on femur‐acetabulum clearance in patients with cam‐type femoroacetabular impingement. We recruited 13 consecutive patients scheduled to undergo arthroscopic femoral neck osteochondroplasty and completed assessments on 10 patients. We scanned each subject before surgery and at 6 months post‐op in supine and 3 other physiological postures: supine 90° flexion with adduction and internal rotation (FADIR), sitting deep (maximal flexion with internal rotation and adduction), and sitting crossed leg (maximal adduction with flexion and internal rotation). We measured the alpha angle, which describes the severity of cam deformity, and the beta angle, which defines joint clearance. We also evaluated hip flexion, internal rotation, and adduction before and after surgery. Femoral neck osteochondroplasty significantly decreased alpha angle by 23.9° ± 4.6° (p = 0.001) and increased beta angle across all postures by 28.1° ± 6.3° (p = 0.002). An increase in beta angle represented a decreased chance of impingement. Femoral neck osteochondroplasty significantly increased flexion by an average of 8.6° in the sitting deep posture after surgery (p = 0.007) which might indicate an improvement of joint function. These findings lend support to the hypothesis that arthroscopic osteochondroplasty accomplishes its stated goals of increasing bone‐bone clearance in the hip joint and improving joint mechanics for the static postures assessed.
Vibrational spectra of calcium vanadyl phosphate hydrate mineral (sincosite): Raman and infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Kharbish Sherif , Sharaby Yasser A.
Published: March 2021

The nondestructive micro‐Raman technique and the infrared spectroscopy are used to investigate sincosite mineral. Sincosite [Ca (VO)2(PO4)2·4H2O] exhibits the characteristic vibrational modes of PO4 tetrahedra, V(O,H2O)6 octahedra, H2O groups, and further external modes. The PO4 Raman and infrared stretching and bending vibrations of sincosite occur between 1,200 and 900 cm−1 and between 600 and 400 cm−1, respectively. The VO bond in the V(O,H2O)6 octahedra shows the most characteristic intense Raman band that appears at 984 cm−1. On the other hand, the H2O stretching and bending modes appear above 3,000 cm−1 and between 1,700 and 1,500 cm−1, respectively. The lattice vibrations occur below 200 cm−1.
Removal of Trace Metal Impurities from Pretreated Phosphoric Acid by Foam Fractionation
Authors: Bakhshi Marzieh , Mortaheb Hamid Reza , Amini Mohammad Hassan
Published: March 2021

Demands for phosphoric acid are growing rapidly in various industries. This has highlighted the importance of optimizing its production and purification methods. Phosphoric acid can be produced by a wet process. However, due to the presence of many organic and inorganic impurities in the wet product, purification of the resulting product is a major concern in this industry. Removal of trace metal impurities (such as magnesium, cadmium, chromium, zinc, etc.) from produced phosphoric acid in a wet process was investigated by foam fractionation in a semi‐batch setup using sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as the surfactant. Effects of inlet air velocity, surfactant concentration, and surfactant selectivity were investigated. The optimum air velocity and surfactant concentration were obtained as 0.020 cm/min and 0.7 g/L, respectively. At the optimum condition, the total removal efficiency and enrichment factor reached were 70.2% and 4.39, respectively, while the acid loss was 8.3%. The total metal removal efficiency was increased to 95.3% in a two‐stage experimental run.
Genetic testing and surgical treatment after breast cancer diagnosis: Results from a national online cohort
Authors: Verdial Francys C. , Bartek Matthew A. , Anderson Benjamin O. , Javid Sara H.
Published: March 2021

Background

Genetic testing for hereditary breast cancer has implications for breast cancer decision‐making. We examined genetic testing rates, factors associated with testing, and the relationship between genetic testing and contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM).

Methods

Patients with breast cancer (2000–2015) from The Health of Women Study were identified and categorized as low, moderate, or high‐likelihood of the genetic mutation using a previously published scale based on period‐relevant national guidelines incorporating age and family history. Genetic testing and CPM rates were compared using univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Among 4170 patients (median age 56‐years), 38% were categorized as high‐likelihood of having a genetic mutation. Among high‐likelihood women, 67% underwent genetic testing, the odds of which were increased among women of higher‐education and White‐race (p < .001). Among 2028 patients reporting surgical treatment, 385 (19%) chose CPM. CPM rate was highest among mutation‐positive women (41%), but 26% of women with negative tests still underwent CPM. Independent of test result, genetic testing increased the odds of CPM on multivariate analysis (adjusted‐OR: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.29–2.22).

Conclusions

Genetic testing rates were higher among women at high‐likelihood of mutation carriage, but one‐third of these women were not tested. Racial disparities persisted, highlighting the need to improve testing in non‐White populations. CPM rates were associated with mutation‐carriage and genetic testing, but many women chose CPM despite negative testing, suggesting that well‐educated women consider factors other than cancer mortality in selecting CPM.
Identification and characterization of Prothionamide degradation impurities by mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy, and ultra high performance liquid chromatography method development
Authors: Baksam Vijaya Kumar , Saritha Nimmakayala , Mohan Surya Krishna , Shandilya Sanjeev , Kumar Pramod
Published: March 2021

Stability‐indicating and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry compatible ultra high performance liquid chromatography method was developed for the degradation and drug substances related impurities of Prothionamide. Forced degradation of Prothionamide was carried out under acidic, basic, thermal, oxidative, and photolytic stress conditions. The impurities separation was achieved on Acquity UPLC BEH‐C18 (50 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm) with the mobile phase of 10 mm ammonium acetate pH 6.0 and Acetonitrile in a time gradient mode. Related substances by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography method was validated according to ICH tripartite guidelines. Degradation products were isolated by Column chromatography and characterized by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, 1H, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The developed related substances method showed adequate specificity, sensitivity, accuracy, linearity (0.4–1.5 μg/mL), precision, and robustness in line with ICH tripartite guidelines for validation of analytical procedures. Limits of detection and quantitation were 0.1 and 0.4 μg/mL, respectively, for Prothionamide and all the impurities. The method was found to be linear with a correlation coefficient > 0.99, precise (%RSD < 5.0), robust and accurate (%recovery 85–115%).
Increased Risk of Injury Following a Diagnosis of Vertigo: A Population‐based Study
Authors: Yang Tzong‐Hann , Xirasagar Sudha , Cheng Yen‐Fu , Wang Chia‐Hui , Lin Herng‐Ching
Published: March 2021

Background

This study aimed to evaluate whether peripheral vestibular disorders (PVD) are associated with subsequent injury.

Methods

Data for this follow‐up study were retrieved from the Taiwan's National Health Insurance (NHI) Dataset. A total of 251,355 patients with newly diagnosed PVD during January 2015 to December 2016 was identified as the study cohort, the diagnosis date being their index date. Comparison patients were identified by propensity score‐matching (one per case, n = 251,355 controls) from the remaining NHI beneficiaries in 2015 with their index date being the date of their first health service claim in 2015. We tracked each subject's claims history for 1 year from the index date to identify those who suffered an injury. Cox proportional hazards regressions were performed to calculate the injury hazard ratio of cases versus controls.

Results

The incidence of injury during 1‐year follow‐up was 128.6 (95% CI = 127.6–129.5) per 1,000 person‐years, 158.2 (95% CI = 156.8–159.6) and 97.5 (95% CI = 96.3–98.7) among the study and comparison cohorts, respectively. After adjusting for demographic variables, the hazard ratio (HR) for injury during 1‐year was 1.663 (95% CI: 1.636–1.690) for cases relative to controls.

Conclusions

Patients with PVD were at a higher risk for a wide range of injuries, most of all, joint dislocation and sprain.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 131:1633–1638, 2021
Impact of Medical Student Research Fellowships on Otolaryngology Match Outcomes
Authors: Dorismond Christina , Shah Rupali N. , Ebert Charles S. , Buckmire Robert A.
Published: March 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

While many students participate in research years or fellowships prior to entering the otolaryngology‐head and neck surgery (OHNS) match, the effects of these fellowships on match outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to assess the impact of research fellowships on odds of matching into OHNS.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis.

Methods

Applications from first‐time, US allopathic seniors between the 2014‐2015 and the 2019‐2020 application cycles were reviewed. Data were abstracted from Electronic Residency Application Service applications and match results determined using the National Residency Matching Program database and online public sources. The relationship between research fellowships and matching was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Of the 1775 applicants included, nearly 16% (n = 275) participated in research fellowships and 84.1% matched (n = 1492). Research fellows were no more likely to match into OHNS than non‐research fellows (86.9% vs. 83.5%, unadjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.31, P = .161), even when adjusting for applicant characteristics (predicted probability [PP]: 88.8% vs. 85.8%, adjusted OR 1.31, P = .210). For applicants from top 25 medical schools, however, research fellowships were associated with higher odds of matching (PP: 96.5% vs. 90.0%, adjusted OR 3.07, P = .017). In addition, completing a fellowship was associated with significantly greater odds of matching into a top 25 OHNS residency program (PP: 58.6% vs. 30.5%, adjusted OR 3.24, P < .001).

Conclusion

Fellowships may be beneficial for select applicants, though for most, they are not associated with improved odds of matching. These findings provide context for OHNS residency candidates considering research fellowships and should be carefully weighed against other potential advantages and disadvantages of fellowships.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E2506–E2512, 2021
Predictors of Quality‐of‐Life Improvements Following Global Head and Neck Surgery Trips to Underserved Regions
Authors: Panuganti Bharat A. , Jafari Aria , Shen Sarek , Qualliotine Jesse R. , Schueth Elizabeth A. , Campbell Bruce , Ngoitsi Henry , Cordes Susan
Published: March 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To conduct longitudinal postoperative follow‐up and discern health‐related quality‐of‐life (HR‐QoL) changes using a validated questionnaire among patients undergoing head and neck surgeries during a short‐term, global surgical trip in a resource‐limited setting. To identify clinicodemographic predictors of post‐operative HR‐QoL improvements in this setting.

Study Design

Retrospective observational study with prospective follow‐up.

Methods

Patients undergoing surgery at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret, Kenya through the authors' short‐term surgical trip (STST) between 2016 and 2019 were asked to complete preoperative Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) HR‐QoL questionnaires, and postoperative SF‐36 questionnaires during subsequent follow‐up. Preoperative and postoperative SF‐36 domain scores, and two composite scores (mental component summary [MCS] and physical component summary [PCS]) were compared. Linear regression models were fit to identify clinicodemographic factors predictors of general health (GH), MCS, and PCS scores.

Results

Among the 26 participating patients, significant improvements were seen in post‐operative GH (mean change = 19.8) and MCS (mean change = 11.2) scores. Lower pre‐operative GH, MCS, and PCS scores were predictive of greater improvement in the corresponding post‐operative scores. Longer time to follow‐up was associated with greater improvement in GH score. Mean follow‐up interval was 23.1 months (SD = 1.8 months).

Conclusions

Utilizing the SF‐36 questionnaire, we found that patients' perception of their general and psychosocial health improved after undergoing head and neck surgeries through a global STST. This study provides important, preliminary evidence that that elective surgeries performed in low‐resource settings convey substantial benefit to patient QoL.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:2006–2010, 2021
Circulator‐Free Brillouin Photonic Planar Circuit
Authors: Liu Yang , Choudhary Amol , Ren Guanghui , Choi Duk‐Yong , Casas‐Bedoya Alvaro , Morrison Blair , Ma Pan , Nguyen Thach G. , Mitchell Arnan , Madden Stephen J. , Marpaung David , Eggleton Benjamin J.
Published: March 2021

On‐chip stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) that results from enhanced light–sound interactions, has recently demonstrated great applicability and versatility for signal generation and manipulation. Progress toward realizing fully integrated Brillouin photonic circuits is promising; however, the control and routing of on‐chip optical waves requires non‐reciprocal elements such as circulators, which is challenging and adds complexity. Here, a circulator‐free Brillouin photonic planar waveguide circuit which eliminates the need for separate non‐reciprocal elements is demonstrated. Backward inter‐modal Brillouin scattering (BIBS) is used in a planar photonic integrated circuit, for the first time, to provide Brillouin processing capability in a multi‐modal waveguide, conveniently allowing for the separation of counter‐propagating pump and signal using passive integrated mode‐selective filters. Using an As2S3–Si hybrid multi‐modal photonic circuit, inter‐optical‐mode energy transfer with a Brillouin gain coefficient of 280 m−1W−1 is experimentally demonstrated, representing two orders of magnitude enhancement compared to conventional optical fibers. This on‐chip BIBS circuit allows for independent routing of pump and signal waves, showing resilience to the cross talk. The experimental demonstrations provide an important basis for achieving fully integrated Brillouin photonic circuits without requiring on‐chip circulators and fine spectral filtering, opening a new dimension for studying spatial‐dependent photon–phonon nonlinear dynamics.
Conformally Mapped Mikaelian Lens for Broadband Achromatic High Resolution Focusing
Authors: Chen Jin , Chu Hong Chen , Lai Yun , Liu Zhanwei , Chen Huanyang , Chen Mingji , Fang Daining
Published: March 2021

Focusing light into a tiny spot of high resolution is of significant importance in fields from imaging, photolithography to microwave engineering and sensing. However, most of the previous high resolution metalenses are constrained by their limited bandwidth and efficiency. In this paper, on the basis of Mikaelian lens derived from conformal transformation optics, a rectangular gradient refractive index lens with a relatively larger refractive index profile is put forward and manufactured by gradient isotropic dielectrics. Highly efficient (above 74%) broadband (7–14 GHz) achromatic high resolution focusing with full width at half maximum (FWHM) around 0.2λ as well as large numerical aperture (NA) of 2.04 has been accomplished. Measured results agree well with theoretical predictions, which makes the presented lens having a great potential to be employed in high resolution imaging systems.
Methodological structure for future consumer neuroscience research
Authors: He Lin , Freudenreich Thomas , Yu Wenhuan , Pelowski Matthew , Liu Tao
Published: March 2021

Consumer neuroscience—as a valuable complement to traditional, largely behavioral, research methods—is attracting increasing interest from researchers of marketing and consumer behavior. Although this field has made very important contributions, most consumer neuroscience studies to date have mainly focused on individuals' brain responses to simple marketing stimuli in solitary, lab‐based, albeit well‐controlled, experimental settings. Thus, previous studies may not yet have tapped other promising approaches involving more ecologically valid, “real,” or social consumption experiences, which could add key extensions to past methods and results. This paper summarizes current findings of consumer neuroscience, including a brief overview of past approaches and topics of focus, and then more expansively targeting these emerging approaches, and proposes a methodological structure for future research emphasizing a movement from a single‐brain frame, in which single individuals passively observe and respond to marketing stimuli, to also multibrain perspectives, where group of consumers actively engage in consumption activities. Accordingly, a three‐layer approach to analysis is suggested, emphasizing not only (1) activation patterns and brain regions but also directed (2) intra‐ and inter‐brain networks with (3) dynamic processing. This review provides an important next step in the understanding of neural cognitive mechanisms underlying consumer behavior.
Missing boundary data reconstruction for the heat equation
Authors: Ben Abda Amel , Benmeghnia Naima , Guetat Rim
Published: March 2021

This work is concerned with the boundary data completion problem related to the heat equation in the special case of an annular domain. We first reformulate this inverse problem into an interfacial equation involving Steklov‐Poincaré operator based on fictitious domain decomposition techniques. We present some theoretical results. For solving the problem under consideration, we suggest a new numerical point of view which helps to reduce the computational cost using the Schur complement algorithm. We perform then the convergence analysis of this new approach in the annular domain. Several numerical experiments are shown to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed method.
Adaptive weighted 61‐QAM based on geometric shaping in coherent optical communication utilizing K‐Means algorithm
Authors: Zhou Wenmao , Zhang Qi , Gao Ran , Wang Xishuo , Xin Xiangjun , Li Xiangpeng , Tian Qinghua , Tian Feng , Wang Yongjun
Published: March 2021

A novel adaptive weighted geometric‐shaped (GS) 61 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) constellation is proposed in order to mitigate the nonlinear damage and increase the transmission distance. By introducing an adaptive weighting factor related to Kerr effect and fiber transmission distance in concentric regular hexagon constellation, the overlapping problem of the outer constellation points induced by nonlinear damage was reduced. The simulation results show that the proposed GS‐61QAM outperformed uniform 64QAM and has more obvious advantages in long‐haul optical transmission system. For a 120‐Gb/s coherent optical communication system, compared with uniform 64QAM, the proposed algorithm can obtain about 4.1 dB optical signal‐to‐noise (OSNR) gain at the BER of 10−2. Moreover, in order to further improve the system tolerance of nonlinearity, a scheme of adaptive weighted GS‐61QAM in coherent optical communication system utilizing K‐Means algorithm is proposed, the proposed scheme outperforms the traditional uniform 64QAM communication system by 5 dB in OSNR at the BER of 10−2.
Accelerated multicontrast reconstruction for synthetic MRI using joint parallel imaging and variable splitting networks
Authors: Ryu Kanghyun , Lee Jae‐Hun , Nam Yoonho , Gho Sung‐Min , Kim Ho‐Sung , Kim Dong‐Hyun
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Synthetic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) requires the acquisition of multicontrast images to estimate quantitative parameter maps, such as T1, T2, and proton density (PD). The study aims to develop a multicontrast reconstruction method based on joint parallel imaging (JPI) and joint deep learning (JDL) to enable further acceleration of synthetic MRI.

Methods

The JPI and JDL methods are extended and combined to improve reconstruction for better‐quality, synthesized images. JPI is performed as a first step to estimate the missing k‐space lines, and JDL is then performed to correct and refine the previous estimate with a trained neural network. For the JDL architecture, the original variable splitting network (VS‐Net) is modified and extended to form a joint variable splitting network (JVS‐Net) to apply to multicontrast reconstructions. The proposed method is designed and tested for multidynamic multiecho (MDME) images with Cartesian uniform under‐sampling using acceleration factors between 4 and 8.

Results

It is demonstrated that the normalized root‐mean‐square error (nRMSE) is lower and the structural similarity index measure (SSIM) values are higher with the proposed method compared to both the JPI and JDL methods individually. The method also demonstrates the potential to produce a set of synthesized contrast‐weighted images that closely resemble those from the fully sampled acquisition without erroneous artifacts.

Conclusion

Combining JPI and JDL enables the reconstruction of highly accelerated synthetic MRIs.
Patient knowledge of rotator cuff related shoulder pain condition and treatment and validation of a patient‐reported knowledge questionnaire
Authors: Phillips Rebecca , Perraton Luke , Cridland Kate , Maloney Stephen , Harris Ian A. , Malliaras Peter
Published: March 2021

Background

Rotator cuff related shoulder pain (RCRSP) knowledge is an important contributor to compliance with clinical practice guidelines and providing best practice care. However, there are no validated instruments for measuring health literacy levels among people with RCRSP. This study aimed to design a valid and reliable instrument to measure RCRSP health literacy and use it to evaluate an education intervention for people with RCRSP.

Methods

Development of the patient knowledge questionnaire (PKQ‐RCRSP) included three phases. Phase 1 was developed based on available literature and input from expert clinicians, researchers and patients. Face validity, pilot testing and readability assessment were also undertaken. In Phase 2, internal consistency and predictive validity were assessed in people with RCRSP and other shoulder pain diagnoses. In Phase 3, RCRSP health literacy was assessed.

Result

Face validity was acceptable and pilot testing identified minor accuracy issues that were corrected. Literacy level was rated as ‘difficult to read’ which reflects the medical terminology within the questionnaire. Internal consistency was very good and 81% of questions demonstrated acceptable predictive validity. Health literacy was heterogeneous depending on the question with less than 40% of respondents answering correctly for questions related to the indications, process and the known benefits of RCRSP surgery.

Conclusion

The PKQ‐RCRSP demonstrated acceptable face validity, predictive validity and reliability (internal consistency) in assessing RCRSP health literacy. Health literacy among our small sample was poor for questions related to surgery for RCRSP.
The evolution and utilization of telehealth in ambulatory nutrition practice
Authors: Shah Neha D. , Krupinski Elizabeth A. , Bernard Jordana , Moyer Meagan F.
Published: March 2021

The term telehealth is often used interchangeably with telemedicine. Telemedicine involves the electronic exchange of medical information between two remote sites for the optimization of patient care, whereas telehealth is the application of all electronic communication and delivery systems in the provision of healthcare. Telehealth gives patients an opportunity to communicate with their healthcare providers and, overall, access ambulatory care that otherwise is not available in their area of residence. Several telehealth delivery systems are available for electronic communication. Telehealth and other communications technologies used in the delivery of healthcare services are regulated at both the federal and state levels. Coverage and payment policies vary among the different insurers (e.g., Medicare, Medicaid, and private plans), and policies may further be defined by state telehealth parity laws. Telenutrition involves the use of digital technology to provide nutrition care to patients and caregivers and shows potential to optimize nutrition care and outcomes. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has contributed to sweeping legislative and regulatory changes that allowed the temporary expansion of telehealth delivery and reimbursement to maintain continuity of care for patients who were not able to come in for an in‐person office visit with their healthcare provider. The purpose of this review is to introduce key concepts of telehealth delivery systems including policy, legal, and regulatory considerations for ambulatory care as well as the role of telenutrition in nutrition care, and highlight the evolving role of telehealth in optimizing patient and nutrition care during a pandemic and beyond.
Chronic Kidney Disease and Nutrition Support
Authors: Chan Winnie
Published: March 2021

Individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those undergoing maintenance dialysis, are prone to protein‐energy wasting (PEW), the latter of which can be ameliorated with different methods of nutrition support. Dietary counseling guided by dietitians is the key for preventing and managing PEW in CKD. If dietary counseling per se fails to meet the recommended energy and protein requirements, the addition of oral nutrition supplements (ONSs) would be necessary. When these initial measures cannot attain the recommended energy and protein requirements, nutrition support, including enteral tube feeding or parenteral nutrition (PN), should be considered as a viable option to improve nutrition status. Partial PN, comprising intraperitoneal PN (IPPN) and intradialytic PN (IDPN) therapies, may be attempted as supplemental nutrition support in patients with PEW requiring peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, respectively. Despite the debatable effectiveness of IPPN for patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis, it remains a feasible means in these patients. The indications for IPPN in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis include inadequate dietary intake of energy and protein, and barriers of oral intake and other forms of enteral supplementation such as issues with suitability, tolerance, and compliance. Nonetheless, in the case of spontaneous dietary consumption of energy and protein meeting the difference between the IDPN provision and the nutrition targets, the use of IDPN is rational. In patients with PEW and malfunctioning gastrointestinal tract, as well as those whose enteral intake (with or without partial PN) is below the recommended nutrient requirements, total PN becomes a relevant nutrition intervention.
Combining label‐free and label‐based accurate quantifications with SWATH‐MS: Comparison with SRM and PRM for the evaluation of bovine muscle type effects
Authors: Bons Joanna , Husson Gauthier , Chion Marie , Bonnet Muriel , Maumy‐Bertrand Myriam , Delalande François , Cianférani Sarah , Bertrand Frédéric , Picard Brigitte , Carapito Christine
Published: March 2021

Mass spectrometry has proven to be a valuable tool for the accurate quantification of proteins. In this study, the performances of three targeted approaches, namely selected reaction monitoring (SRM), parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) and sequential windowed acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion mass spectra (SWATH‐MS), to accurately quantify ten potential biomarkers of beef meat tenderness or marbling in a cohort of 64 muscle samples were evaluated. So as to get the most benefit out of the complete MS2 maps that are acquired in SWATH‐MS, an original label‐free quantification method to estimate protein amounts using an I‐spline regression model was developed. Overall, SWATH‐MS outperformed SRM in terms of sensitivity and dynamic range, while PRM still performed the best, and all three strategies showed similar quantification accuracies and precisions for the absolute quantification of targets of interest. This targeted picture was extended by 585 additional proteins for which amounts were estimated using the label‐free approach on SWATH‐MS; thus, offering a more global profiling of muscle proteomes and further insights into muscle type effect on candidate biomarkers of beef meat qualities as well as muscle metabolism.
Custom NIR Imaging of New Up‐Conversion Multimodal Gadolinium Oxysulfide Nanoparticles
Authors: Santelli Julien , Lepoix Carole , Lechevallier Séverine , Martinez Cyril , Calise Denis , Zou Qilin , Moyano Sebastien , Cussac Daniel , Verelst Marc , Mauricot Robert
Published: March 2021

Up‐conversion (UC) nanoparticles (NPs) appear as promising probes for easy, cost‐effective, and efficient in vivo imaging. In this paper, a new kind of UCNPs is proposed: Gd2O2S:Yb3+/Tm3+ for multimodal bioimaging, exhibiting a strong fluorescent emission in the near‐infrared range (802 nm) when excited at 980 nm. The in vivo fluorescence detection of such NPs is made possible by the development of a dedicated custom‐made imaging system. However, the high sensitivity of the techniques is counterbalanced with a limited resolution which highlights the necessity of combining different approaches to gather as much vital information as possible. The presence of a large amount of gadolinium also confers interesting contrasting properties both in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) that could be advantageously exploited in the context of multimodal in vivo imaging. In this study, the UC emission properties and energy transfer processes of this new nanoprobe are reported. The detectability of the UCNPs is exhibited using the custom‐made imaging system in different tissues (skin, muscle, kidney, liver, brain), depths (different anatomical localization), and species (rat and mouse), punctually and chronically. Last, promising multimodal bioimaging results are presented in UC, MRI, and CT, showing a relatively low detection threshold.
Preparation of Microspherical Ph−Fe/RDX(HMX) Composite Particles and their Thermal Decomposition Behaviors
Authors: Song Naimeng , Yang Li , Liu Pingan
Published: March 2021

This paper mainly introduces the Ph−Fe/RDX(HMX) composite microspheres prepared by ultrasonic spray drying. Their morphology was observed by SEM and found that the composite microspheres were spherical. Also, the composite microspheres exhibited good dispersion. The results of the granularity data show that the D50 data of Ph−Fe/RDX and Ph−Fe/HMX were 580.78 nm and 496.52 nm, respectively. The DSC data showed that the catalytic effect of the composite microspheres was significantly better than that of the mixed powder. The DSC data showed that the decomposition peak temperature of the Ph−Fe/RDX(HMX) composite microsphere was 229.6 °C (279.6) lower than the 235.6 °C (284.3) of the mixed powder. The DSC data demonstrated that the catalytic performance of the composite microspheres was significantly better than that of the mixed powder. Therefore, the ultrasonic spray drying method has great potential for preparing energetic composite microspheres.
Periprostatic adipose tissue promotes prostate cancer resistance to docetaxel by paracrine IGF‐1 upregulation of TUBB2B beta‐tubulin isoform
Authors: Liotti Antonietta , La Civita Evelina , Cennamo Michele , Crocetto Felice , Ferro Matteo , Guadagno Elia , Insabato Luigi , Imbimbo Ciro , Palmieri Alessandro , Mirone Vincenzo , Liguoro Pasquale , Formisano Pietro , Beguinot Francesco , Terracciano Daniela
Published: March 2021

Growing evidence supports the pivotal role played by periprostatic adipose tissue (PPAT) in prostate cancer (PCa) microenvironment. We investigated whether PPAT can affect response to Docetaxel (DCTX) and the mechanisms associated. Conditioned medium was collected from the in vitro differentiated adipocytes isolated from PPAT which was isolated from PCa patients, during radical prostatectomy. Drug efficacy was studied by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide citotoxicity assay. Culture with CM of human PPAT (AdipoCM) promotes DCTX resistance in two different human prostate cancer cell lines (DU145 and PC3) and upregulated the expression of BCL‐xL, BCL‐2, and TUBB2B. AG1024, a well‐known IGF‐1 receptor inhibitor, counteracts the decreased response to DCTX observed in presence of AdipoCM and decreased TUBB2B expression, suggesting that a paracrine secretion of IGF‐1 by PPAT affect DCTX response of PCa cell. Collectively, our study showed that factors secreted by PPAT elicits DCTX resistance through antiapoptotic proteins and TUBB2B upregulation in androgen independent PCa cell lines. These findings reveal the potential of novel therapeutic strategies targeting adipocyte‐released factors and IGF‐1 axis to overcome DCTX resistance in patients with PCa.
Memristors based on TiOx/HfOx or AlOx/HfOx Multilayers with Gradually Varied Thickness
Authors: Yin Binfeng , Wang Yongzhi , Xie Guancai , Guo Beidou , Gong Jian Ru
Published: March 2021

As a fourth fundamental two‐terminal circuit element, memristors have received great research interest as resistive random access memory (RRAM). Herein, a new memristor structure based on TiOx/HfOx or AlOx/HfOx multilayers with gradually varied thickness as the switching material is fabricated. The devices show forming‐free, self‐compliance, reliable multilevel resistive switching, and low switching voltage properties, and are promising for applications in future advanced integrated circuits.