bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Valley Orientation of Electrons and Excitons in Atomically Thin Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Monolayers (Brief Review)
Authors: Glazov M. M. , Ivchenko E. L.
Published: March 2021

The main aspects of physical phenomena associated with the optical orientation of the spin and valley degrees of freedom in transition metal dichalcogenide monolayers and in van der Waals heterostructures based on them have been briefly reviewed. Owing to features of the band structure and spin–orbit coupling in such systems, circularly polarized light induces optical transitions in different valleys K+ and K– of the Brillouin zone; consequently, the optical orientation of charge carriers and excitons is accompanied by their valley polarization. The main features of the band structure of transition metal dichalcogenide monolayers, excitonic effects, and results of theoretical studies of the valley orientation of excitons and electrons at one-photon absorption have been reported. The linear–circular dichroism and valley orientation of free charge carriers and excitons at multiphoton absorption have been studied. Effects associated with the trigonal symmetry of monolayers, including the inversion of valley polarization at two-photon transitions and the second harmonic generation, have been discussed. The considered theoretical models have been illustrated by experimental data.
Bronchiolitis and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Milani Gregorio Paolo , Bollati Valentina , Ruggiero Luca , Bosis Samantha , Pinzani Raffaella Maria , Lunghi Giovanna , Rota Federica , Dioni Laura , Luganini Anna , Agostoni Carlo , Marchisio Paola
Published: March 2021

Background

It has been speculated that the SARS-CoV-2 was already widespread in western countries before February 2020.

Methods

We gauged this hypothesis by analysing the nasal swab of infants with either bronchiolitis or a non-infectious disease admitted to the Ospedale Maggiore, Milan (one of the first epicentres of SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in Europe) from November 2019.

Results

The SARS-CoV-2 RNA was never detected in 218 infants with bronchiolitis (95 females, median age 4.9 months) and 49 infants (22 females, median age 5.6 months) with a non-infectious disease between November 2019 and February 2020. On the contrary, two infants hospitalised for bronchiolitis between March and April 2020 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusions

This study does not support the hypothesis that SARS-CoV-2 was already circulating among infants before the official outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, it shows for the first time that SARS-CoV-2 might cause bronchiolitis requiring hospitalisation.
Somatic GNAQ R183Q mutation is located within the sclera and episclera in patients with Sturge-Weber syndrome
Authors: Wu Yue , Peng Cheng , Huang Lulu , Xu Li , Ding Xuming , Liu Yixin , Zeng Changjuan , Sun Hao , Guo Wenyi
Published: March 2021

Aims

To determine the correspondence between GNAQ R183Q (c.548G＞A) mutation in abnormal scleral tissue of patients with Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) secondary glaucoma and explore the role of GNAQ R183Q in glaucoma pathogenesis.

Methods

Episcleral tissues were obtained from 8 patients: SWS secondary glaucoma (n=5) and primary congenital glaucoma (PCG, n=3). Scleral tissues were obtained from 7 patients: SWS secondary glaucoma (n=2), PCG (n=1) and juvenile open-angle glaucoma (n=4). GNAQ R183Q mutation was detected in scleral tissue by droplet digital PCR. Tissue sections from SWS were examined by immunohistochemistry to determine the expression of p-ERK.

Results

The GNAQ R183Q mutation was present in 100% of the SWS abnormal sclera. Five cases were SWS patient-derived episcleral tissue, and the mutant allelic frequencies range from 6.9% to 12.5%. The other two were deep scleral tissues and the mutant frequencies were 1.5% and 5.3%. No mutations in GNAQ R183 codon were found in the sclera of PCG and juvenile open-angle glaucoma. Increased expression of p-ERK and p-JNK was detected in the endothelial cells of SWS abnormal scleral blood vessels.

Conclusions

GNAQ R183Q occurred in all abnormal scleral tissue of SWS secondary glaucoma. Increased expression of p-ERK and p-JNK in endothelial cells of blood vessels was detected in the abnormal scleral tissue. This study suggests GNAQ R183Q may regulate episcleral vessels of patients with SWS through abnormal activation of ERK and JNK, providing new genetic evidence of pathogenesis of glaucoma in SWS, and the dysplasia of scleral tissue in anterior segment may be used as an early diagnostic method or treatment targets to prevent the development and progression of glaucoma in patients with SWS.
Domains and outcome measures for the assessment of limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Lescoat Alain , Roofeh David , Townsend Whitney , Hughes Michael , Sandler Robert D , Zimmermann François , Pauling John D , Buch Maya H , Khanna Dinesh
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) is the most frequent subset of systemic sclerosis. Despite this, lcSSc is not the major focus of clinical studies. The lack of interventional studies in lcSSc is due, in part, to a paucity of relevant outcome measures to effectively evaluate this subset. A combined response index dedicated to lcSSc would facilitate development of well-designed trials and approval of new drugs. The objective of this scoping review is to perform a broad and comprehensive identification of the outcome measures (core set items) within relevant domains, which have been used so far to assess lcSSc.

Methods and analysis

The planned scoping review will be based on the approach proposed by Arkseyet aland further developed by Levacet al. Development and reporting will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses—Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist and guidelines. The development of the search strategy was guided by the concepts of domains and outcomes based on the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology approach and by the different names and definitions of SSc, with a specific emphasis on their occurrence in clinical trial studies. Two databases will be searched: MEDLINE and Embase. Studies in English, published from the year 1988 onwards, will be included, since 1988 corresponds to the publication of LeRoy’s first consensus definition of lcSSc. Data will be extracted and analysed using a standardised charting tool.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required for this study. The results will be submitted to an international peer-reviewed journal and scientific conferences, informing the discussion on which items should be included in a combined response index dedicated to lcSSc (the CRISTAL project: Combined Response Index for Scleroderma Trial Assessing lcSSc).
Retrospective study on the possible existence of a treatment paradox in sepsis scores in the emergency department
Authors: Uffen Jan Willem , van Goor Harriet , Reitsma Johannes , Oosterheert Jan Jelrik , de Regt Marieke , Kaasjager Karin
Published: March 2021

Objective

The quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) is developed as a tool to identify patients with infection with increased risk of dying from sepsis in non-intensive care unit settings, like the emergency department (ED). An abnormal score may trigger the initiation of appropriate therapy to reduce that risk. This study assesses the risk of a treatment paradox: the effect of a strong predictor for mortality will be reduced if that predictor also acts as a trigger for initiating treatment to prevent mortality.

Design

Retrospective analysis on data from a large observational cohort.

Setting

ED of a tertiary medical centre in the Netherlands.

Participants

3178 consecutive patients with suspected infection.

Primary outcome

To evaluate the existence of a treatment paradox by determining the influence of baseline qSOFA on treatment decisions within the first 24 hours after admission.

Results

226 (7.1%) had a qSOFA ≥2, of which 51 (22.6%) died within 30 days. Area under receiver operating characteristics of qSOFA for 30-day mortality was 0.68 (95% CI 0.61 to 0.75). Patients with a qSOFA ≥2 had higher odds of receiving any form of intensive therapy (OR 11.4 (95% CI 7.5 to 17.1)), such as aggressive fluid resuscitation (OR 8.8 95% CI 6.6 to 11.8), fast antibiotic administration (OR 8.5, 95% CI 5.7 to 12.3) or vasopressic therapy (OR 17.3, 95% CI 11.2 to 26.8), compared with patients with qSOFA <2.

Conclusion

In ED patients with suspected infection, a qSOFA ≥2 was associated with more intensive treatment. This could lead to inadequate prediction of 30-day mortality due to the presence of a treatment paradox.

Trial registration number

6916.
Surrogate decision making in crisis
Authors: Wilkinson Dominic , Pillay Thillagavathie
Published: March 2021

Care of the critically ill newborn includes support for the birth mother/parents with regular updates around the clinical condition of the baby, and involvement in discussions around complex decision-making issues . Discussions around continuation or discontinuation of life-sustaining are challenging even in the most straightforward of cases, but what happens when the birth mother is critically unwell? Such cases can lead to uncertainty around who should assume the parental role for these difficult discussions . In this round table discussion, we explore the ethical, moral and legal uncertainties raised by coincident severe maternal and neonatal illness in the context of surrogacy.
Active colloids under geometrical constraints in viscoelastic media
Authors: Narinder N , Zhu Wei-jing , Bechinger Clemens
Published: March 2021

We study the behavior of active particles (APs) moving in a viscoelastic fluid in the presence of geometrical confinements. Upon approaching a flat wall, we find that APs slow down due to compression of the enclosed viscoelastic fluid. In addition, they receive a viscoelastic torque leading to sudden orientational changes and departure from walls. Based on these observations, we develop a numerical model which can also be applied to other geometries and yields good agreement with experimental data. Our results demonstrate, that APs are able to move through complex geometrical structures more effectively when suspended in a viscoelastic compared to a Newtonian fluid.

Graphic Abstract
A uniparametric perfect fluid solution to represent compact stars
Authors: Estevez-Delgado Joaquin , Maya Noel Enrique Rodríguez , Peña José Martínez , Rangel David Rivera , Muñoz Nancy Cambron
Published: March 2021

In the description of neutron stars, it is very important to consider gravitational theories as general relativity, due to the determining influence on the behavior of the different types of stars, since some objects show densities even bigger than nuclear density. This paper starts with Einstein’s equations for a perfect fluid and then we present a uniparametric stellar model which allows to describe compact objects like neutron stars with compactness ratio [Formula: see text]. The pressure and density are monotone decreasing regular functions, the speed of sound satisfies the causality condition, while the value for its adiabatic index [Formula: see text] guarantees the stability. In addition, the graph of [Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text] shows a quasi-linear relationship for the equation of state [Formula: see text], which is similar to the so-called MIT Bag equation when we have the interaction between quarks. In our case it is due to the interaction of the different components found inside the star, such as electrons and neutrons. As an application of the model, we describe the star PSR J1614-2230 with a observed mass of [Formula: see text] and a radius [Formula: see text], the model shows that the maximum central density occurs for a maximal compactness value [Formula: see text].
Development and on orbit test of Taiji-1 inertial reference
Authors: Wang Zhi , Lei Jun-Gang ,   On behalf of The Taiji Scientific Collaboration
Published: March 2021

Taiji-1 is the first step of China’s efforts on the detection of gravitational waves in space. It is a one-year quick mission, which aims to verify the key technologies on orbit. The detection of gravitational waves at mHz frequency band needs to exceptionally focus on small spatial deviations between two inertial references several million kilometers apart. The inertial reference on Taiji-1 spacecraft (S/C) has been developed based on a capacitive readout and actuation scheme to meet the requirements of accelerometer. In this paper, the development condition, ground tests and on-orbit performance of this inertial reference are described.
Sensitive and Enzyme-Free Glucose Sensor Based on Copper Nanowires/Polyaniline/Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Ink
Authors: Anand Vijay Kumar , Bhatt Kapil , Kumar Sandeep , Archana B. , Sharma Sandeep , Singh Karamvir , Gupta Monish , Goyal Rakesh , Virdi G. S.
Published: March 2021

In this paper, we report the preparation and characterization of a sensitive and reusable nonenzymatic glucose (NEG) sensor based on copper nanowires (CuNWs)/polyaniline (PANI)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanocomposite ink. The CuNWs/PANI/rGO nanocomposite ink was prepared by solvothermal mixing of CuNWs, PANI, rGO and binders. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FT-IR) spectroscopy techniques were used to assess the structural and morphological parameters of prepared nanocomposite ink. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) technique was used to estimate the electrochemical behavior of prepared NEG sensor. The structural, morphological and spectroscopy results confirmed the change in morphological and oxidation state of CuNWs to CuO nanostructures as a constituent of nanocomposite ink. The CuO nanostructures supported on PANI/rGO demonstrated good electrochemical stability and great electrocatalytic activity toward glucose oxidation. At a glucose oxidation potential of 0.64V, the prepared NEG sensor exhibited great electrocatalytic ability by offering a high sensitivity of 843.06[Formula: see text]AmM[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text] in the linear glucose range 0–4mM with a lower detection limit of 1.6mM. In addition to these outstanding performance characteristics, CuNWs/PANI/rGO nanocomposite ink-based NEG sensor has the advantages of ease of fabrication, low cost and reusability.
Comparison of Gold Nanospheres, Nanorods, Nanocages and Nanoflowers for Combined Photothermal-Radiotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Yang Lijie , Wang Jinhua , Sun Liying , Zhang Yisi , Huang Peng , Guo Junfeng
Published: March 2021

Gold nanoparticles are promising dual agents for combined photothermal-radiotherapy of cancer. Nevertheless, the shape effects of gold nanoparticles on photothermal conversion efficiency and radiosensitization have not been completely revealed. To address this knowledge gap, different shapes of gold nanoparticles including gold nanospheres (GNSs), gold nanorods (GNRs), gold nanocages (GNCs) and gold nanoflowers (GNFs) were synthesized. Despite being subjected to the same modification with poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG), these gold nanoparticles showed different cellular uptake efficiencies: GNFs[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GNSs[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GNCs[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GNRs. Moreover, GNRs, GNCs and GNFs could convert near-infrared (NIR) light to heat and GNFs displayed the highest photothermal conversion efficiency, whereas GNSs showed poor photothermal effects due to the weak NIR absorption. The highest uptake efficiency as well as the best photothermal conversion ability led to GNFs to exhibit the best photothermal therapeutic effect. Furthermore, all the gold nanoparticles could be used as radiosensitizers to improve radiotherapeutic effect. Among these nanoparticles, GNFs showed the best radiation enhancement effect because of their highest uptake efficiency. Furthermore, a higher accumulation of GNFs in tumor tissues was observed than those of other shaped gold nanoparticles. Importantly, our in vitro and in vivo comparative studies revealed that GNFs possessed the strongest anticancer effect in combined photothermal-radiotherapy. Hence, compared to gold nanoparticles with other shapes, the GNFs might be more desirable dual agents for highly efficient combined photothermal-radiotherapy.
Nonuniform loss of muscle strength and atrophy during bed rest: a systematic review
Authors: Marusic Uros , Narici Marco , Simunic Bostjan , Pisot Rado , Ritzmann Ramona
Published: March 2021

Our study contributes to the characterization of muscle loss and weakness processes reflected by a logarithmic decline in muscle strength induced by chronic bed rest. Acute short-term hospitalization (≤5 days) associated with periods of disuse/immobilization/prolonged time in the supine position in the hospital bed is sufficient to significantly decrease muscle mass and size and induce functional changes related to weakness in maximal muscle strength. By bringing together integrated evaluation of muscle structure and function, this work identifies that 79% of the loss in muscle strength can be explained by muscle atrophy, leaving 21% of the functional loss unexplained. The outcomes of this study should be considered in the development of daily countermeasures for preserving neuromuscular integrity as well as preconditioning interventions to be implemented before clinical bed rest or chronic gravitational unloading (e.g., spaceflights).
Applications of Biodiesel in Drilling Fluids
Authors: Ahmed Ashraf , Elkatatny Salaheldin , Al-Afnan Saad
Published: March 2021

Biodiesel, referred to as the monoalkyl ester of long-chain fatty acid ester that is synthesized by the complete transesterification of triglycerides, has captured the attention of drilling researchers attributing to its magnificent characteristics such as the high flash point, excellent lubricity, nontoxicity, high biodegradability, and abundant feedstock resources, which make it ecofriendly and technically and economically feasible for a sustainable drilling operation. There are several studies that reported and documented the usage of biodiesel in drilling fluids on laboratory and field scales. In this paper, the production and the key physical and chemical properties of biodiesel are thoroughly reviewed. Moreover, the applications of biodiesel in drilling muds either as base fluids or additives were comprehensively surveyed. The literature review revealed that the challenges of biodiesel applications in drilling mud systems are related to its chemical reactivity and adverse interactions with some additives, along with its performance deficiency at temperature above 120°C. Therefore, further investigation on temperature stability and additive compatibility is recommended. In addition, as a new approach, it is recommended to study the potentiality of using crude waste oils in drilling mud formulations. The lessons learned and recommendations stated in this paper will assist in enhancing the proved use of biodiesel and drilling fluid optimization.
A Novel Approach to Augmenting Allograft Hamstring Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructions Utilizing a Resorbable Type I Collagen Matrix with Platelet Rich Plasma
Authors: Millan Sean Mc , Thorn Danielle , Ford Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

Background. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is one of the most common lower extremity orthopedic surgeries performed in the United States. Annually, between 100,000 and 200,000 ACL tears affect 1 in 3,000 people. The selection of autograft versus allograft for ACLR has been widely discussed in terms of risk of graft failure. Allograft reconstructions have been shown to have higher rerupture rates. One factor contributing to this risk is delayed biologic graft incorporation. Methods. A retrospective review was performed examining 14 patients who underwent an augmented quadruple-stranded hamstring allograft ACLR with a type I resorbable collagen matrix impregnated with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Results. Within our clinical practice, the augmentation of quadruple-stranded hamstring allograft ACLR with a type I resorbable matrix impregnated with PRP has yielded good early clinical success at 2-year outcomes (

N
=
14

). Zero ACLR failures have been reported to date in this series. Conclusion. This case series offers a novel approach for soft tissue allograft ACLR augmented with a type I collagen matrix impregnated with PRP. The authors theorize that this augmentation may improve biologic graft incorporation into the host bone tunnels.
Plant-Mediated Biosynthesis and Photocatalysis Activities of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: A Prospect towards Dyes Mineralization
Authors: Fagier Mohamed Awad
Published: March 2021

In recent years, nanoparticles synthesis by green synthesis has gained extensive attention as a facile, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly method compared with chemical and physical synthesis methods. This review covered the biosynthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs), including the procedure and mechanism. Factors affecting the formation of ZnO NPs are discussed. The presence of active bioorganic molecules in plant extract played a vital role in the formation of ZnO NPs as a natural green medium in the metallic ion reduction processes. ZnO NPs exhibit attractive photocatalysis properties due to electrochemical stability, high electron mobility, and large surface area. In this review, the procedure and mechanism of the ZnO photocatalysis process are studied. The effects of dyes amount, catalysts, and light on photodegradation efficiency are also considered. This review provides useful information for researchers who are dealing with green synthesis of ZnO NPs. Moreover, it can provide investigators with different perceptions towards the efficiency of biosynthesized ZnO NPs on dyes degradation and its restrictions.
Occurrence, Distribution, and Ecological Risk Assessment of Antibiotics in Selected Urban Lakes of Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Duong Hong Anh , Phung Thi Vi , Nguyen Thuy Ngoc , Phan Thi Lan-Anh , Pham Hung Viet
Published: March 2021

Residue concentrations of fifteen antibiotics including sulfonamides, quinolones, macrolides, β-lactams, and trimethoprim in lakes from Hanoi metropolitan area, Vietnam, were analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC/MS-MS) to elucidate their occurrence and behavior in urban environment. For surface water, the average concentrations of five antibiotic classes decreased in the order: sulfonamides (117.9 ng/L) > β-lactams (31.28 ng/L) > quinolones (20.19 ng/L) > macrolides (17.74 ng/L) > trimethoprim (8.93 ng/L). While the highest concentration of SMX was detected at 806.5 ng/L in surface water, those obtained in sediment were only at 1.35 ng/g because of their high solubility in water. Quinolones were found at a maximal concentration of 158.7 ng/L for OFL in water phase whereas those in sediment phase were 4,017 ng/g due to their great affinity in sediment. These findings revealed the different fate and release mechanisms of each antibiotic group in the environment. The ecological risk assessment implied some targeted compounds, and in particular, OFL and AZM could pose high risks to algae in the aquatic ecosystem.
Pemafibrate Pretreatment Attenuates Apoptosis and Autophagy during Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury by Modulating JAK2/STAT3β/PPARα Pathway
Authors: Cheng Ziqi , Guo Chuanyong
Published: March 2021

Hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (HIRI) is a common phenomenon in liver transplantation and liver surgery. This article is aimed at clarifying the role of pemafibrate in HIRI through JAK2/STAT3β/PPARα. In the experiment, we divided Balb/c into seven groups, namely, normal control (NC), Sham, PEM (1.0 mg/kg), IRI, IRI + PEM (0.1 mg/kg), IRI + PEM (0.5 mg/kg), and IRI + PEM (1.0 mg/kg). We used biochemical assay, histopathological evaluation, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR and qRT-PCR, ELISA analysis, and other methods to determine the level of serum AST, ALT, IL-1β, and TNF-α in the liver at three time points (2 h, 8 h, and 24 h) after reperfusion of apoptosis factor, autophagy factor, and the JAK2/STAT3/PPARα content in tissues. Our experiment results showed that the pemafibrate can effectively reduce the level of hepatic IR injury. In addition, pemafibrate has anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antiautophagy effects, which are mediated by the JAK2/STAT3β/PPARα pathway.
Effects of Carbon Fiber Compression Ratio and Electrolyte Flow Rate on the Electrochemical Performance of Vanadium Redox Batteries
Authors: Tai Zhongxu , Hanawa Kenzo , Ju Dongying , Luo Wenping , Lyu Rui , Ishikawa Kousuke , Sato Susumu
Published: March 2021

All-vanadium flow batteries (VRFBs) are used in the field of energy storage due to their long service life and high safety. In order to further improve the charge-discharge performance of VRFB, this study mainly used the comparative evaluation of VRFB’s carbon fiber electrode compression ratio and electrolyte flow rate. The battery is charged and discharged under different current densities, different compression ratios, and different flow rates. The results show that increasing the compression ratio at different current densities can reduce the internal resistance of the battery, but an excessive compression ratio will accelerate the transfer of vanadium ions, increase the deviation of the electrolyte, and reduce the Coulombic efficiency of the battery. The performance of the battery tends to be balanced when the compression ratio is 30%. At the same time, in the case of the same compression ratio, increasing the flow rate of the electrolyte can reduce the internal reaction resistance of the battery. When the flow reaches a certain value, the influence on the internal resistance will be smaller.
A Low‐Cost Sensor for Detecting Illicit Discharge in Sewerage
Authors: Rocher Javier , Parra Mar , Parra Lorena , Sendra Sandra , Lloret Jaime , Mengual Jesús
Published: March 2021

The presence of illicit discharges in sewerage systems generates an important impact in wastewater treatment plants and the ecosystem. In this paper, we present two prototypes for monitoring the presence of solids in wastewater and to study the effect of the water height. The prototypes are based on color and infrared LEDs and two photosensors located in the prototypes at 0° and 180° degrees. When the photosensor is located at 180°, all color LEDs present a good range of output voltage (approximately 5 V to 0 V) and good R2. However, for the typical concentration of solids in wastewater, the prototypes do not work correctly. When the photosensor is located in the prototypes the LEDs, yellow, red, and white have a good operation with voltage differences of 1.73 V, 1.76 V, and 1.13 V in P1 and 1.58 V, 1.84 V, and 1.35 V in P2, respectively. We calculate the mathematical model with the heights and solid concentration. The mathematical models which do not consider height present good R2. In conclusion, when the photosensor is located in the prototype, the height does not have an important effect and can detect the illicit discharge of solids. When the photosensor is located at 180°, it can be used for water with important changes in solid concentrations.
A Fuzzy ARIMA Correction Model for Transport Volume Forecast
Authors: Xie Yumeng , Zhang Peilin , Chen Yanyi
Published: March 2021

In recent years, few water transportation forecasting studies conduct relative to transportation forecasting. As a neglected area, the inland waterway volume prediction is an important indicator for investment management and government policymaking. Considering the time-series forecasting, some researchers try to narrow the predicted value interval. However, certain limitations detract from their popularity. For instance, if the prediction length is more than ten, the result would not be acceptable. Therefore, we propose a hybrid model that combines both of their unique properties’ advantages to provide more accurate traffic volume forecasts. Also, the forecasting process will be more straightforward. The empirical results present the proposed model and improve the long-term predictive accuracy at waterway traffic volume.
Chorioretinal Alterations Induced by Preeclampsia
Authors: He Xinyi , Ji Yimei , Yu Meiting , Tong Yuhua
Published: March 2021

Hypertension during pregnancy, which is essentially a microvascular disease that destroys the end-organ microcirculation, should not be underestimated, as it could lead to organ failure in the kidneys, lungs, and brain. Preassessment of the microcirculatory state through systematic observation of the fundus has been proven to be noninvasive and feasible. Although hypertension in preeclampsia patients will resolve after childbirth, the sticking point is determining the best termination moment. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term ocular complications and cardiovascular risks for pregnant women in the future. In order to adjust the treatment strategy through more sensitive and precise fundus changes, we comprehensively summarized the common structural changes in the fundus in preeclampsia patients, including changes in the blood vessels, choroid, and retina, as well as the application of quantitative observation for chorioretinal alterations in recent years.
Nanophthalmos: An Update on the Biological Parameters and Fundus Abnormalities
Authors: Yang Ning , Zhao Liang-Liang , Liu Jia , Ma Lin-Lin , Zhao Jin-Song
Published: March 2021

Nanophthalmos is a clinical phenotype of simple microphthalmos, in which the anterior and posterior segments of the eyeball do not develop into a normal size without other major ocular or systemic anomalies. Typical clinical manifestations of nanophthalmos include short axial length, thickened sclera, small cornea, shallow anterior chamber, and increased lens-to-eye volume ratio. Currently, there is a lack of recognized diagnostic criteria for nanophthalmos. With the development of eye examination technologies, such as biological measurement and imaging examination, visualization and quantification of the eyeball’s shape and structure in nanophthalmos can be realized. New clinical features have been reported, which are of great significance for diagnosing and treating nanophthalmos. This review introduces the related concepts of nanophthalmos and the new developments in its clinical characterization.
Recurrent Self-Induced Nontraumatic Orbital Emphysema Causing Orbital Compartment Syndrome with Optic Nerve Dysfunction
Authors: Cutting S. , Davies-Husband C. , Poitelea C.
Published: March 2021

The majority of cases of orbital emphysema are due to trauma. Complications are rare, and therefore, the need for surgical intervention is uncommon. We present the first case of which we are aware in which nontraumatic orbital emphysema led to orbital compartment syndrome and subsequent optic nerve dysfunction. The patient underwent emergency needle decompression. A 51-year-old man presented to the Emergency Department with right-sided unilateral proptosis, reduced visual acuity, and binocular diplopia. This occurred after performing a Valsalva manoeuvre with no history of head trauma. He also mentioned that over the past year he had experienced multiple episodes of transient proptosis occurring after Valsalva manoeuvres. Visual acuity in the right eye was reduced to 6/21. A relative afferent pupillary defect was present and intraocular pressure (IOP) was 12 mmHg. The CT scan showed significant orbital emphysema in the medial aspect of the right orbit. Needle decompression was performed resulting in immediate resolution of his symptoms. This case demonstrates that, in cases of orbital emphysema, a lack of a history of trauma and a normal IOP cannot always be used to rule out serious pathology.
Association between Vitamin D Supplements, Oxidative Stress Biomarkers, and Hyperbaric Therapy in Patients with Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Paprocki Jarosław , Sutkowy Paweł , Piechocki Jacek , Woźniak Alina
Published: March 2021

The effect of vitamin D supplementation to patients with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL), treated with hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy, on the markers of the oxidant‐antioxidant equilibrium was investigated. Patients were divided into two groups: those who did and did not receive vitamin D (cholecalciferol at 4000 IU/24 h). Concentrations of the following compounds, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), malondialdehyde (MDA), conjugated dienes (CD) in plasma and erythrocytes and activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in erythrocytes, were determined. Haemoglobin (HGB) and haematocrit (HCT) were measured. Blood for analyses was collected from the basilic vein at three time points: before the first HBO procedure, up to 5 min after the first procedure, and after 14 procedures. No statistically significant differences in parameters tested were found between patients who did and did not receive vitamin D. In patients without supplementation, an increase of 53.2% (P ≤ 0.05) in erythrocyte TBARS was observed after the first HBO treatment. In patients receiving vitamin D, a reduction of 27.6% (P ≤ 0.05) was observed in erythrocyte MDA after 14 HBO treatments vs. that after the first treatment. In both groups, a decrease of 33.3% in plasma CD was observed after 14 treatments vs. that after the first treatment (P ≤ 0.05 and P ≤ 0.01, respectively). No statistically significant changes were observed in the erythrocyte SOD, GPx, and CAT activities and in HCT. A reduction of HGB concentration of 10.9% (P ≤ 0.05) was demonstrated in nonsupplemented patients after 14 treatments compared with baseline. The results confirm that the effect of HBO therapy on oxidative stress markers is inconclusive and complex. Repeated HBO procedures can induce adaptive changes which protect against disruption of the oxidant‐antioxidant equilibrium. It is possible that vitamin D supplementation inhibits the process of lipid peroxidation in erythrocytes.
Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of the Genomics of Mucosal Melanoma
Authors: Broit Natasa , Johansson Peter A. , Rodgers Chloe B. , Walpole Sebastian T. , Newell Felicity , Hayward Nicholas K. , Pritchard Antonia L.
Published: March 2021

Mucosal melanoma is a rare subtype of melanoma. To date, there has been no comprehensive systematic collation and statistical analysis of the aberrations and aggregated frequency of driver events across multiple studies. Published studies using whole genome, whole exome, targeted gene panel, or individual gene sequencing were identified. Datasets from these studies were collated to summarize mutations, structural variants, and regions of copy-number alteration. Studies using next-generation sequencing were divided into the “main” cohort (n = 173; fresh-frozen samples), “validation” cohort (n = 48; formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples) and a second “validation” cohort comprised 104 tumors sequenced using a targeted panel. Studies assessing mutations in BRAF, KIT, and NRAS were summarized to assess hotspot mutations. Statistical analysis of the main cohort variant data revealed KIT, NF1, BRAF, NRAS, SF3B1, and SPRED1 as significantly mutated genes. ATRX and SF3B1 mutations occurred more commonly in lower anatomy melanomas and CTNNB1 in the upper anatomy. NF1, PTEN, CDKN2A, SPRED1, ATM, CHEK2, and ARID1B were commonly affected by chromosomal copy loss, while TERT, KIT, BRAF, YAP1, CDK4, CCND1, GAB2, MDM2, SKP2, and MITF were commonly amplified. Further notable genomic alterations occurring at lower frequencies indicated commonality of signaling networks in tumorigenesis, including MAPK, PI3K, Notch, Wnt/β-catenin, cell cycle, DNA repair, and telomere maintenance pathways. This analysis identified genomic aberrations that provide some insight to the way in which specific pathways may be disrupted.

Implications:

Our analysis has shown that mucosal melanomas have a diverse range of genomic alterations in several biological pathways.
Duration of Mechanical Ventilation and Extubation Success among Extremely Premature Infants
Authors: Ohnstad Mari Oma , Stensvold Hans Jørgen , Tvedt Christine Raaen , Rønnestad Arild E. ,   on behalf of the Norwegian Neonatal Network
Published: March 2021

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the duration of mechanical ventilation (MV) in days until the first successful extubation and the cumulative duration of MV until discharge of infants with gestational age (GA) <26 weeks. We also aimed to explore associations between early clinical variables and the cumulative duration of MV. Design and Setting: This population-based study analysed data reported to the Norwegian Neonatal Network on extremely premature infants admitted between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2018. Results: A total of 406 infants were included, of which 293 (72%) survived to discharge. The proportion successfully extubated on their first attempt was 34% of the infants born at GA 22–23 weeks, 50% at GA 24 weeks, and 70% at GA 25 weeks. Median postmenstrual age (PMA) at the first successful extubation was 27 weeks. The median duration of MV was 35, 24, and 12 days for infants born at GA 22–23, 24, and 25 weeks, respectively. Male sex and low 5-min Apgar score were independent early predictors for prolonged MV duration adjusted for GA in regression analyses. Conclusions: Most of the infants born at GA 25 weeks were successfully extubated on the first attempt. However, half of the infants born <26 weeks experienced unsuccessful extubations, indicating a lack of useful clinical predictors of successful extubation. The median duration of MV in survivors was 4 weeks longer for infants at GA 22–23 weeks than for infants born at GA 25 weeks, while the difference in median PMA at the first successful extubation was 2 weeks.
Care of the Patient With Acute Ischemic Stroke (Endovascular/Intensive Care Unit-Postinterventional Therapy): Update to 2009 Comprehensive Nursing Care Scientific Statement: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Rodgers Mary L. , Fox Elizabeth , Abdelhak Tamer , Franker Lauren M. , Johnson Brenda Joyce , Kirchner-Sullivan Christina , Livesay Sarah L. , Marden Franklin A. ,   on behalf of the American Heart Association Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing and the Stroke Council
Published: March 2021

Ischemic stroke remains the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Nurses play a pivotal role in the care of patients throughout the continuum. With the advances in stroke care, including mechanical thrombectomy, the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association charged the writing panel to complement the 2009 clinical practice guideline, “Comprehensive Overview of Nursing and Interdisciplinary Care of the Acute Ischemic Stroke Patient,” with current evidence-based nursing care. This update is 1 of a 3-part series focusing on emergency medical services/emergency care, endovascular/intensive care unit care, and postacute care. The aim of this scientific statement is to review and present current evidence, complications, best practices, and clinical practice strategies to provide current comprehensive scientific information for nursing care in the neuroendovascular area and intensive care unit in conjunction with medical treatments, including intravenous thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy.
Abstract 16: IV TPA in the 0-3 Hour Window: Quantitative Fragility-Robustness Assessment of the Strength of the RCT Evidence
Authors: Mun Katherine T , Bonomo Jordan B , Liebeskind David S , Saver Jeffrey L
Published: March 2021

Background:
After 3 decades, the era of RCTs of IV tPA as a standalone therapy in acute ischemic stroke has now likely closed, with the completion of TESPI, PRISMS, and late, imaging-selection RCTs, and the advent of endovascular thrombectomy. Some non-expert contrarians questioned the accumulating evidence regarding tPA; the recently formulated fragility-robustness index (FRI) enables quantification of the actual rigor of evidence throughout the era of IV tPA investigation.

Methods:
The FRI summarizing the strength of the statistical evidence for clinical trial findings is the minimum nonevent to event changes needed to turn a statistically significant to non-significant result. The FRI was applied to disability-free (mRS 0-1) and independence (mRS 0-2) outcomes; cumulative meta-analyses delineated evidence strength after each successive RCT. FRI scores were classified: Not Robust (FRI 0-4), Somewhat Robust (5-12), Robust (13-33), and Highly Robust (>33).

Results:
Systematic search identified 8 RCTs (1960 patients) of IV tPA in the 0-3h window from 1995 - 2018. Study-level meta-analyses showed FRIs of 42 for mRS 0-1 and 40 for mRS 0-2; individual patient data meta-analyses showed FRIs of 40 for both mRS 0-1 and mRS 0-2, placing IV tPA in the highest quintile of FRIs among meta-analyses for all conditions. Evolution of RCT evidence over time is shown in Table 1. Strength of evidence for IV tPA superiority was already robust with publication of the initial 2 NINDS-tPA in 1995, remained robust through 2011 after 4 additional RCTs, increased to highly robust with the IST-3 mega-trial in 2012, and remains highly robust today after 1 additional trial.

Conclusions:
Intravenous tPA for acute ischemic stroke in 0-3h patients is one of the most robustly proven therapies in medicine. This therapy was already robustly supported with publication of the initial trials 25 years ago and advanced 9 years ago after additional trials to highly robust/non-fragile.
Abstract 25: Periinfarct Rewiring Supports Recovery After Primary Motor Cortex Stroke
Authors: van Assche Mitsouko , Dirren Elisabeth , Bourgeois Alexia , Kleinschmidt Andreas , Richiardi Jonas , Carrera Emmanuel
Published: March 2021

Background and Purpose:
After stroke restricted to the primary motor cortex (M1), it is uncertain whether network reorganization associated with motor recovery involves the periinfarct or more remote brain regions. In humans, the challenge is to recruit patients with similar lesions in size and location.

Methods:
We studied 16 patients with focal M1 stroke and hand paresis. Motor function and resting-state MRI functional connectivity (FC) were studied at three time points: acute (<10 days), early subacute (3 weeks), and late subacute (3 months). FC correlates of motor recovery were investigated at three spatial scales, i) ipsilesional non-infarcted M1, ii) core motor network (including M1, premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA), and primary somatosensory cortex), and iii) extended motor network including all regions structurally connected to the upper limb representation of M1.

Results:
Hand dexterity was impaired only in the acute phase (
P
=0.036). At a small spatial scale, improved dexterity was associated with increased FC involving mainly the ipsilesional non-infarcted M1 and contralesional motor regions (cM1: rho=0.732;
P
=0.004; cPMC: rho=0.837,
P
<0.001; cSMA: rho=0.736;
P
=0.004). At a larger scale, motor recovery correlated with the relative increase in total FC strength in the core motor network compared to the extended motor network (rho=0.71;
P
=0.006).

Conclusions:
FC changes associated with motor improvement involve the perilesional M1 and do not extend beyond the core motor network. The ipsilesional non-infarcted M1 and core motor regions could hence be primary targets for future restorative therapies.
Abstract 34: Transcranial Detection and Classification of Stroke Using a Noninvasive Handheld Portable Device
Authors: Shahrestani Shane , Zada Gabriel , Chou Tzu-Chieh , Toy Brandon , Yao Bryan , Garrett Norman , Sanossian Nerses , Brunswick Andrew , Bulic Sebina , Tai Yu-chong
Published: March 2021

Introduction:
Existing paradigms for stroke diagnosis typically involve computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging to classify ischemic versus hemorrhagic stroke variants, as treatment for these subtypes varies widely. Delays in diagnosis and transport of unstable patients may worsen neurological status. Here, we demonstrate feasibility of rapid and accurate bedside stroke detection using a novel, handheld portable eddy current damping imaging device in live human clinical ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke settings.

Methods:
Copper wire was wound around an 11.4cm plastic cylinder to create a large solenoid coil and connected to an inductance-to-digital converter. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained and patients with hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke were recruited. The sensor coil was tangentially rotated across 8 rows on the patient’s head circumferentially. Data was plotted as a 2D heatmap to predict lesion type and location. For 3D figures, the 2D image was processed to convert the stroke-affected area from white to red (hemorrhage) and black to white (ischemia).

Results:
Consent, positioning each patient, and scanning with the sensor took roughly 15 minutes from start to end for each participant enrolled in our study and occurred at the patient bedside (n=8).
Figure 1a
and
1d
show the location and type of lesion,
Figure 1b
and
1e
show the 2D prediction heatmap generated after scanning hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke respectively, and
Figure 1c
and
1f
show 3D reconstructed images of stroke location and subtype.

Conclusion:
We show that diagnosis of stroke may potentially be reduced from several hours to minutes, with additional spatial localization of intracranial hemorrhage, thereby rapidly guiding time-sensitive medical decisions for clinical intervention such as tPA. The sensor additionally detects ischemic and hemorrhagic lesions located deep inside the brain, and its range can be selectively tuned during sensor design and fabrication.
Abstract 35: Vessel Wall Magnetic Resonance Imaging Biomarkers of Symptomatic Intracranial Atherosclerosis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Song Jae W , Pavlou Athanasios , Xiao Jiayu , Kasner Scott E , Fan Zhaoyang , Messe Steven
Published: March 2021

Background:
Intracranial vessel wall MR imaging (VWI) may be able to identify imaging biomarkers of symptomatic plaque. A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the strength of association of imaging features of symptomatic plaque on VWI and downstream ischemia.

Methods:
PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE and Cochrane databases were searched up to October 2019. Studies evaluating acute/subacute cerebrovascular ischemia using VWI on 1.5 or 3 Tesla MR were included. Studies with insufficient exclusion of other stroke etiologies, insufficient or duplicated data and conference abstracts were excluded. Two independent reviewers extracted data on study design, VWI techniques, imaging endpoints, and conducted a study design risk bias assessment using the QUADAS-2 tool. Per-lesion odds ratios (OR) were calculated and pooled using a bivariate random-effects model. Subgroup analyses and evaluation of publication bias were performed.

Results:
Twenty-one articles met inclusion criteria (1,750 lesions; 1,542 subjects). Plaque enhancement (OR 7.4, 95% CI 3.4-16.4; Figure), positive remodeling (OR 5.6, 95% CI 2.2-14.0), surface irregularity (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.4-8.6), and T1 hyperintensity (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3-3.3) were significantly associated with downstream ischemia. T2 signal intensity was not significant (p=0.59). Plaque enhancement showed stronger associations when measured in retrospectively designed studies (OR 35.3, 95% CI 7.4-141, p=0.02), by a radiologist as a rater (OR 12.6, 95% CI 5.3-29.7, p<0.001), and on VWI pulse sequences with lower spatial resolution (OR 30.4, 95% CI 7.0-132.4, p=0.02). There was no publication bias (Egger’s test p=0.48).

Conclusions:
Plaque enhancement, positive remodeling, T1 hyperintensity and surface irregularity emerged as imaging biomarkers of symptomatic plaque. Plaque enhancement had the strongest association and remained significant accounting for sources of bias and variability in both study design and instrument.