bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic accuracy of pelvic examination in pelvic inflammatory disease: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Iwata Hiroyoshi , Sugiyama Yoshifumi , Satoi Yoshinao , Sasamoto Naoko , Aoki Takuya , Matsushima Masato
Published: August 2022

Background

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is not a mere transient infection. PID can lead to chronic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have established minimum diagnostic criteria, including pelvic examination, the diagnostic value of pelvic tenderness has recently garnered controversy. Our meta‐analysis aimed to confirm whether pelvic tenderness, cervical motion tenderness, and adnexal tenderness can help diagnose PID.

Methods

We searched for studies reporting the diagnostic test accuracy of pelvic tenderness, cervical motion tenderness, and adnexal tenderness among female patients at risk for PID, using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, Google, and Google Scholar through May 25th, 2022. After quality assessment using QUADAS‐2, we performed data synthesis using a bivariate random effect model and Bayesian hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic model. We then conducted sensitivity analysis excluding studies with non‐PID cases.

Results

The literature search produced 6769 articles. After quality assessment, 14 studies and their 2808 participants were eligible for synthesis on pelvic tenderness. Laparoscopy, either alone or in combination, was the most frequent reference standard. The main results for pelvic tenderness sensitivity and specificity were 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.67–0.90] and 0.40, 95% CI [0.25–0.57], respectively. Sensitivity and specificity were 0.72, 95% CI [0.57–0.83] and 0.50, 95% CI [0.34–0.66], for cervical motion tenderness, and 0.87 [0.64–0.96] and 0.27, 95% CI [0.12–0.52] for adnexal tenderness, respectively.

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis suggests that pelvic tenderness assessed by pelvic examination may be useful for PID examination with moderate‐to‐high sensitivity, whereas clinicians should be aware of the diagnostic significance of pelvic tenderness.
Short‐ and long‐term outcomes of laparoscopic versus open repeat liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter study
Authors: Nomi Takeo , Kaibori Masaki , Tanaka Shogo , Hirokawa Fumitoshi , Hokuto Daisuke , Noda Takehiro , Ueno Masaki , Nakai Takuya , Ikoma Hisashi , Iida Hiroya , Matsui Kosuke , Komeda Koji , Hayami Shinya , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Matsumoto Masataka , Morimura Ryo , Maehira Hiromitsu , Yoshikawa Takahiro , Kubo Shoji
Published: August 2022

Objective

This multicenter study aimed to compare the short‐ and long‐term outcomes of laparoscopic (LRLR) versus open repeat liver resection (ORLR) for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using propensity score matching (PSM). Despite the expanding indications for laparoscopic liver resection, limited data regarding the outcomes of LRLR have previously been reported.

Methods

This study included patients who underwent repeat liver resection for recurrent HCC. Patients were divided into the LRLR and ORLR groups, and their short‐ and long‐term outcomes were compared via PSM.

Results

There were 256 and 130 patients in the ORLR and LRLR groups, respectively. After PSM, 64 patients were included in each group. Intraoperative blood loss was significantly less in LRLR than in ORLR (56 vs 208 ml, P < .001). Postoperative complications of Clavien‐Dindo IIIa or more were significantly less in LRLR than in ORLR (3.1% vs 15.6%, P = .030). The length of hospital stay was notably shorter in LRLR than in ORLR (9 vs 12 days, P < .001). Survival rates after repeat liver resection at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively, were comparable at 93.4%, 81.9%, and 63.5% for ORLR and at 94.8%, 80.7%, and 67.3% for LRLR (P = .623). Subgroup analysis of patients who underwent wedge resection in repeat liver resection revealed that the postoperative complication rate was notably lower in LRLR than in ORLR (7.2% vs 21.8%, P = .030).

Conclusion

LRLR for recurrent HCC is a viable option due to its better short‐term outcomes and comparable long‐term outcomes compared to ORLR.
Usefulness of Decapolar catheter via femoral approach on CS cannulation during CRT device implantation
Authors: Sharma Rajeev , Dahiya Archit , Joshi Piyush , Wadhawan Tushar , Wardhan Harsh
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device insertion comprises of a transvenous pacing lead implanted in posterolateral branch of the coronary sinus (CS) for left ventricular (LV) pacing, in addition to leads in the right ventricle and right atrium. In patients undergoing CRT device implantation, failure of CS cannulation was earlier reported to be around 10% but has come down to about 4% in recent years. Although the use of electrophysiology (EP) catheter has been reported during CRT procedures but femoral approach to place decapolar catheter as fluoroscopic guide for CS ostium cannulation during LV lead implantation has not been evaluated.

Materials and methods

The aim of the study was to compare fluoroscopy time during CRT procedure between conventional technique and using decapolar EP catheter via femoral approach as fluoroscopic marker to cannulate CS.

Results

This study included 21 patients. Group 1 (using decapolar catheter) had 12 patients and group 2 (using the conventional technique) had 9 patients. CS cannulation was successful in all 21 cases. The mean fluoroscopy time for the CS cannulation and LV lead placement in group 1 was 10.7 (±1.03) min and in group 2 was 19.1 (±1.51) min. This difference in mean fluoroscopy time for the CS cannulation and LV lead placement was statistically significant with p < .05.

Conclusion

This study highlights the usefulness of decapolar catheter via femoral approach as a fluoroscopic guide for CS cannulation during CRT device implantation. The decreased fluoroscopic time results in decreased radiation exposure to not only the patient but also to the operator.
Study on the classification and characteristics of cold surge in South Korea
Authors: Kim Eung‐Sup , Ahn Joong‐Bae
Published: August 2022

This study examined the characteristics of cold surges in the Korean Peninsula over the last 45 years (1975–2019). During the period, there were 37 cases of cold surges affected by blocking (B_CS) and 129 cases of cold surges not influenced by blocking (nB_CS), indicating that most of the cold surges were nB_CS. The blocking that caused a cold surge over the Korean peninsula occurred mostly in the Okhotsk region and Ural region (OK_B and UR_B, respectively). In rare cases, blocking occurred simultaneously in the two regions called double blocking (DO_B), causing strong and long‐lasting cold surges. The nB_CS was related closely to the propagating wave‐train, hence the mean duration of nB_CS was shorter than the B_CS because the wave‐train propagated fast from the northwest to the southeast. Although the number of occurrences of B_CS was low, B_CS was stronger and lasted longer than nB_CS. In the case of cold surges affected by UR_B, referred to as UR_CS, their progression was slower compared to the cold surges affected by nB_CS because UR_B is slowing the atmospheric flow in the west. For cold surges affected by OK_B (OK_CS), the progression was slower than nB_CS and UR_CS because blocking was located downstream, slowing the propagating trough. Accordingly, the mean durations of nB_CS, UR_CS, and OK_CS were 2.7, 3.6, and 5.1 days, respectively, the mean of the temperature anomaly throughout the cold surge, was −3.8, −5.4, and −5.1°C, respectively. Overall, both the intensity and the progression speed of the cold surges differed according to the presence and location of blocking. A common characteristic of all types of cold surges was that they occur after the passage of the trough having a baroclinic structure. In addition, all types of cold surges were linked to an expansion of the Siberian high.
Second‐Generation Differential Tissue Harmonic Imaging Improves the Visualization of Renal Lesions
Authors: Forsberg Flemming , Stanczak Maria , Sinanan Jesse K. , Blackman Rachel
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To compare to three nonlinear imaging techniques to conventional, grayscale ultrasound imaging of renal lesions.

Methods

Twenty adults with a known renal lesion and a body mass index >25 kg/m2 were enrolled in this prospective, institutional review board approved study. Each subject was imaged with an Aplio 500 scanner (Canon Medical Systems, Tokyo, Japan) using grayscale ultrasound, tissue harmonic imaging (THI) and two dual‐frequency, differential tissue harmonic imaging modes (DTHI and DTHI‐II, respectively). In total 184 images were scored by three independent and blinded observers for detail resolution, image quality, margin delineation, and depth penetration. Quantitative contrast‐to‐noise ratios (CNRs) were also calculated.

Results

Readers and CNR values showed that nonlinear imaging was superior to grayscale ultrasound (P < .0014). DTHI‐II outperformed DTHI, THI, and grayscale ultrasound with respect to detail resolution, image quality, and margin delineation (P < .012). The depth penetration of DTHI and DTHI‐II was similar (P = .16), but superior to grayscale ultrasound and THI (P < .001). Two observers saw improvements in detail resolution with DTHI‐II over DTHI (P < .05), while image quality and margin delineation were considered similar by two readers (P > .07) and improved with DTHI‐II by one (P < .017).

Conclusions

DTHI‐II improves the imaging of renal lesions compared to DTHI, THI, and grayscale ultrasound, albeit based on a limited sample size.
Interventional Ultrasound in Dermatology: A Pictorial Overview Focusing on Cutaneous Melanoma Patients
Authors: Corvino Antonio , Catalano Fabio , Cipolletta Campanile Anna , Cocco Giulio , Delli Pizzi Andrea , Corvino Fabio , Varelli Carlo , Catalano Orlando
Published: August 2022

Cutaneous melanoma incidence is increasing worldwide, representing an aggressive tumor when evolving to the metastatic phase. High‐resolution ultrasound (US) is playing a growing role in the assessment of newly diagnosed melanoma cases, in the locoregional staging prior to the sentinel lymph‐node biopsy procedure, and in the melanoma patient follow‐up. Additionally, US may guide a number of percutaneous procedures in the melanoma patients, encompassing diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. These include fine needle cytology, core biopsy, placement of presurgical guidewires, aspiration of lymphoceles and seromas, and electrochemotherapy.
Validating the accuracy of multiple sediment fingerprinting methods
Authors: Dai Wei , Chen Dan , Li Mengjie , Zeng Yi , Ni Lingshan , Fang Nufang , Shi Zhihua
Published: August 2022

Sediment source fingerprinting provides an effective and reliable way for targeted control of soil erosion. However, the accuracy of source contribution predictions of different fingerprinting methods has not been well verified, which affects the further application of these methods. Here, compared with the real sediment sources measured by indoor simulated scouring experiments, we verified the accuracy of two tracers (geochemical elements and n‐alkanes) and three mixing models (Walling model, MixSIAR, and Landwehr model). The results showed that geochemical properties have high accuracy in identifying sediment sources, with the mean absolute error (MAE) ranging from 3.5%–5.9%, while poor results were shown for n‐alkanes (MAE values 7.5%–45.7%). The Walling model and MixSIAR showed higher accuracy of contribution prediction, and the MAE was 3.5%–5.9% and 0.7%–3.5%, respectively. Although Landwehr also presented high accuracy of model output, it was relatively less robust compared with the former two mixing models (the MAE range was 3.8%–9.7%). Furthermore, the mixing model with three correction factors (particle size, organic matter (OM), and particle size with OM) showed poor output results for scouring experiments. This study provides a reference for the selection and determination of tracers, mixing models, and correction factors in field experiments.
Individual and mixed effects of slag and biochar on soil aggregates and their carbon concentration and on fungal community structure in subtropical early‐ and late‐cropping paddy fields
Authors: Jin Qiang , Wang Weiqi , Peñuelas Josep , Sardans Jordi , Lan Xingfu , Xu Xuping , Wang Chun
Published: August 2022

Aggregates are the basis for the formation of a good soil structure. Soil fungi community plays an important role in soil nutrient transformation, soil aggregate formation and ecological balance of the plant–soil system. However, little is known about the multi‐year response of soil aggregates, their carbon concentrations and fungal community structure to different exogenous agents in double cropping paddy fields in southern China. Therefore, we studied the changes of aggregates' carbon concentrations and stability and fungal community structure under the application of slag and biochar individually and mixed in paddy fields in southeastern China for two annual cycles. Geometric mean diameter in the 0–15 cm layer in the early paddy fields was 29.0% lower in the slag + biochar treatment than in the control. The percentage of soil carbon concentrations in aggregates <0.25 mm in the four treatments in the early paddy field was 35.5%, 38.6%, 45.8% and 51.2%, respectively, in the 0–15 cm layer and 36.1%, 33.8%, 54.9% and 50.9%, respectively, in the 15–30 cm layer. Thus, treatments including biochar increase aggregates carbon concentration probably due to carbon retained in the biochar. Amendments with biochar and slag affected the fungal community structure even 2 years after their application. The results of this study reveal the relationship between soil aggregates and their carbon concentration and fungal community structure in paddy fields under slag and biochar application. These findings provide a theoretical basis for sustainable agricultural applications.
The pediatric global burden of stunting: Focus on Latin America
Authors: Montenegro Clara Rojas , Gomez Gabriel , Hincapie Oscar , Dvoretskiy Svyatoslav , DeWitt Tiffany , Gracia Daniela , Misas Juan Diego
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Stunting is a devastating consequence of poor nutrition from before birth to early childhood. While the prevalence of stunting is decreasing over the past 30 years, approximately 144 million children still suffer from stunting globally and 5 million in Latin America (LATAM).

Method

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of stunting globally, with a focus on LATAM. Stunting can impact child development, lead to greater susceptibility to infections, increase functional impairments, and increase mortality risks. Furthermore, the economic negative impact of stunting is large, as stunted children will likely suffer from productivity losses due to chronic diseases in adulthood. The reduction in per capita income of the labor force due to stunting is close to 5% in LATAM; therefore, there is a continued need for comprehensive approaches to address stunting in this region and around the globe.

Conclusions

A multisectoral comprehensive approach to address stunting is required, with nutritional intervention being a key part of that process.
Impact of NaCl impurity on corrosion of 316 L steel in molten nitrate salts for thermal energy storage: An electrochemical study
Authors: Li Heng , Wang Xiaowei , Feng Xiucheng , Yang Xinyu , Tang Jianqun , Gong Jianming
Published: August 2022

The impact of NaCl impurity on corrosion of stainless steel (SS) 316 L in binary nitrate salts (60 wt% NaNO3 + 40 wt% KNO3) was systematically investigated at 565°C via electrochemical measurements. SS 316 L exhibits active dissolution behavior in salts containing 0–1.4 wt% NaCl. The influence of NaCl impurity shows a strong time dependence according to the negligibly affected corrosion current density obtained from a short‐time potentiodynamic polarization sweep. The corrosion process of 316L in salts with NaCl‐free is controlled by ions transport through the oxide layer. With the presence of NaCl impurity, it is controlled by higher rate of ions transport and the diffusion of metal chlorides. The alternation in basicity in the corrosion front caused by chloride ions increases the solubility of chromium oxide and hence the dissolution of chromium oxide, which can lead to the formation of a less protective oxide layer.
Hydrosilylation of Alkynes Under Continuous Flow Using Polyurethane‐Based Monolithic Supports with Tailored Mesoporosity
Authors: Acikalin Hande , Panyam Pradeep K. R. , Shaikh Abdul Wasif , Wang Dongren , Kousik Shravan R. , Atanasova Petia , Buchmeiser Michael R.
Published: August 2022

Non‐porous polyurethane‐based monoliths are prepared under solvent‐induced phase separation conditions. They possess low specific surface areas of 0.15 m2 g−1, pore volumes of 1 µL g−1, and a non‐permanent, solvent‐induced microporosity with pore dimensions ≤1 nm. Mesoporosity can be introduced by varying the monomers and solvents. A tuning of the average solubility parameter of the solvent mixture by increasing the macroporogen content results in a decrease in the volume fraction of micropores from 70% to 40% and an increase in the volume fraction of pores in the range of 1.7–9.6 nm from 22% to 41% with only minor changes in the volume fraction of larger mesopores in the range of 9.6–50 nm. The polymeric monoliths are functionalized with quaternary ammonium groups, which allowed for the immobilization of an ionic liquid that contained the ionic Rh‐catalyst [1‐(pyrid‐2‐yl)‐3‐mesityl)‐imidazol‐2‐ylidene))(η4‐1,5‐cyclooctadiene)Rh(I) tetrafluoroborate]. The supported catalyst is used in the hydrosilylation of 1‐alkynes with dimethylphenylsilane under continuous flow using methyl‐tert‐butyl ether as second liquid transport phase. E/Z‐selectivity in hydrosilylation is compared to the one of the analogous biphasic reactions. The strong increase in Z‐selectivity is attributed to a confinement effect provided by the small mesopores.
A meshed kinematical approach for 3D slope stability analysis
Authors: Li Tianzheng , Gong Wenping , Tang Huiming , Zhang Limin
Published: August 2022

The limit analysis method has been extensively recognized as an efficient tool for a quick estimate of slope stability. Its common practice is to divide the potential failure domain into one or more standard geometric shapes such as the slice method or horn failure mechanism. However, these methods are difficult to solve the problems with spatially varying soil properties, especially for the variation of soil internal friction angles. To solve this problem, a meshed kinematical approach is proposed in this study for 3D slope stability analysis. The proposed approach takes advantage of the spatial discretization technique to achieve the failure mechanism generation based on soil properties rather than a predetermined geometric shape. It also shares some boundary conditions with the well‐known horn failure mechanism to respect the theoretical framework of limit analysis. The obtained failure mechanism is meshed and composed of a large number of well‐arranged elements, which in turn gives it great flexibility and compatibility in integrating spatially discretized data or combining numerical simulation methods. For verification purposes, the proposed approach is tested by some hypothetical slope stability cases and compared with the horn failure mechanism. Two case studies, respectively, involving a multi‐layer slope and a slope subjected to pore water pressure, are presented to illustrate the practical application of the proposed approach. It is concluded that the meshed kinematical approach is effective for slope stability assessment, which can gain high computation accuracy with much less time consumption compared to the numerical simulations.
BMI trajectories, morbidity, and mortality in England: a two‐step approach to estimating consequences of changes in BMI
Authors: Gray Laura A. , Breeze Penny R. , Williams Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2022

Objective

BMI is known to have an association with morbidities and mortality. Many studies have argued that identifying health risks using single BMI measures has limitations, particularly in older adults, and that changes in BMI can help to identify risks. This study identifies distinct BMI trajectories and their association with the risks of a range of morbidities and mortality.

Methods

The English Longitudinal Study of Aging provides data on BMI, mortality, and morbidities between 1998 and 2015, sampled from adults over 50 years of age. This study uses a growth‐mixture model and discrete‐time survival analysis, combined using a two‐step approach, which is novel in this setting, to the authors' knowledge.

Results

This study identified four trajectories: “stable overweight,” “elevated BMI,” “increasing BMI,” and “decreasing BMI.” No differences in mortality, cancer, or stroke risk were found between these trajectories. BMI trajectories were significantly associated with the risks of diabetes, asthma, arthritis, and heart problems.

Conclusions

These results emphasize the importance of looking at change in BMI alongside most recent BMI; BMI trajectories should be considered where possible when assessing health risks. The results suggest that established BMI thresholds should not be used in isolation to identify health risks, particularly in older adults.
Water intake, thirst, and copeptin responses to two dehydrating stimuli in lean men and men with obesity
Authors: Chang Douglas C. , Penesova Adela , Bunt Joy C. , Stinson Emma J. , Kavouras Stavros A. , Gluck Marci E. , Paddock Ethan , Walter Mary , Piaggi Paolo , Krakoff Jonathan
Published: August 2022

Objective

Physiological systems responsible for water homeostasis and energy metabolism are interconnected. This study hypothesized altered responses to dehydration including thirst, ad libitum water intake, and copeptin in men with obesity.

Methods

Forty‐two men (22 lean and 20 with obesity) were stimulated by a 2‐hour hypertonic saline infusion and a 24‐hour water deprivation. In each dehydrating condition, thirst, ad libitum water intake after dehydration, and urinary and hormonal responses including copeptin were assessed.

Results

After each dehydration condition, ad libitum water intake was similar between both groups (p > 0.05); however, those with obesity reported feeling less thirsty (p < 0.05) and had decreased copeptin response and higher urinary sodium concentrations when stressed (p < 0.05). Angiotensin II, aldosterone, atrial and brain natriuretic peptides, and apelin concentrations did not differ by adiposity group and did not explain the different thirst or copeptin responses in men with obesity. However, leptin was associated with copeptin response in lean individuals during the hypertonic saline infusion (p < 0.05), but the relationship was diminished in those with obesity.

Conclusions

Diminished thirst and copeptin responses are part of the obesity phenotype and may be influenced by leptin. Adiposity may impact pathways regulating thirst and vasopressin release, warranting further investigation.
A global analysis of factors predicting conservationists' values
Authors: Luque‐Lora Rogelio , Keane Aidan , Fisher Janet A. , Holmes George , Sandbrook Chris
Published: August 2022

There exists a wealth of philosophical, sociological and anthropological literature on environmental values; yet, few studies have investigated the values held by conservationists themselves, and how these shape the conservation movement.

Here, we present the first global analysis of the relationships between conservationists' values and a broad range of conservationists' characteristics, categorised into their educational and professional background, geographical context and personal experiences in childhood and adulthood. We draw on survey responses from 9264 conservationists from 149 countries to conduct the broadest analysis to date of what factors are associated with the values of conservationists.

Our results demonstrate that 13 characteristics of conservationists' personal and professional backgrounds are statistically related to their values regarding the place of people, science, capitalism and nonhuman entities in conservation. Of these characteristics, educational specialism and continent of nationality had the highest predictive power. We also draw on open‐text responses to uncover other factors that conservationists identify as having been important in shaping their values; travel and religion were the most commonly reported.

Our findings have important implications for current debates on diversity and inclusion within the conservation community. In particular, we provide broad empirical evidence that increasing personal and professional diversity in conservation organisations is likely to also increase the range of values represented. We also discuss the implications of our results for interdisciplinarity, the management of disagreement and conflict in conservation, and the training of future generations of conservationists.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Highly transparent castor oil‐derived polyurethane/silica nanocomposite coating synthesized by in situ polymerization
Authors: Mohanty Debasmita , Kanny Marven Krishnan , Mohanty Smita
Published: August 2022

The automobile paint industry normally consumes petro‐based feedstock as the raw material, which is non‐renewable and emits a higher amount of volatile organic compound, that pollutes the environment. This study focuses on the use of eco‐friendly castor oil (CO) as a substitute for petro‐based feedstocks; while synthesizing polyurethane (PU)‐based automobile clear coats. An acrylate‐PU/nano‐silica (NS) hybrid coating was developed, which was derived from CO‐based polyol. CO was modified by employing a process that includes epoxidation, followed by transesterification, and acrylation to synthesize the required polyols, which is used for acrylate‐PU paint synthesis via the in‐situ polymerization process. Triallyl isocyanurate (TI) modified NS particles were incorporated with the paint matrix by the ultrasonication method to enhance the paint properties. Experimental findings revealed that with the incorporation of NS particles, char residue, Young's modulus, abrasion resistance, and cross‐cut adhesion % increased by 71.31%, 42%, 0.28%, and 5% respectively. Also, glass transition temperature, pencil hardness, nanoindentation depth, water contact angle, and cross‐linking density were increased from −12.16°C, 2H, 3300 nm, 81.71°, and 0.90 mol/m3 to 1.65°C, 3H, 2000 nm, 92.26°, and 1.78 mol/m3 respectively. The UV‐visibility spectra, haze, transmittance, and gloss parameter showed the enhanced optical properties of the paint samples. PU/NS composite coating developed showed equivalent properties as that of the commercial clear coat.
Prognostic value of texture analysis of the primary tumour in high‐risk neuroblastoma: An 18F‐DOPA PET study
Authors: Fiz Francesco , Bottoni Gianluca , Bini Fabiano , Cerroni Francesca , Marinozzi Franco , Conte Massimo , Treglia Giorgio , Morana Giovanni , Sorrentino Stefania , Garaventa Alberto , Siri Giacomo , Piccardo Arnoldo
Published: August 2022

Purpose

To evaluate the prognostic value of texture analysis of the primary tumour with 18fluorine‐dihydroxyphenylalanine positron emission tomography/X‐ray computed tomography (18F‐DOPA PET/CT) in patients affected by high‐risk neuroblastoma (HR‐NBL).

Methods

We retrospectively analysed 18 patients with HR‐NBL, which had been prospectively enrolled in the course of a previous trial investigating the diagnostic role of 18F‐DOPA PET/CT at the time of the first onset. Texture analysis of the primary tumour was carried out on the PET images using LifeX. Conventional indices, histogram parameters, grey level co‐occurrence (GLCM), run‐length (GLRLM), neighbouring difference (NGLDM) and zone‐length (GLZLM) matrices parameter were extracted; their values were compared with the overall metastatic load, expressed by means of whole‐body metabolic burden (WBMB) score and the progression‐free/overall survival (PFS and OS).

Results

There was a direct correlation between WBMB and radiomics parameter describing uptake intensity (SUVmean: p = .004) and voxel heterogeneity (entropy: p = .026; GLCM_Contrast: p = .001). Conversely, texture indices of homogeneity showed an inverse correlation with WBMB (energy: p = .026; GLCM_Homogeneity: p = .006). On the multivariate model, WBMB (p < .01) and the first standardised uptake value (SUV) quartile (p < .001) predicted PFS; OS was predicted by WBMB and the N‐myc proto‐oncogene protein (MYCN) amplification (p < .05) for both.

Conclusions

Textural parameters describing heterogeneity and metabolic intensity of the primary HR‐NBL are closely associated with its overall metastatic burden. In turn, the whole‐body tumour load appears to be one of the most relevant predictors of progression‐free and overall survival.
Finite element analysis of biaxial tensile mechanical properties and burst properties of woven fabric for layflat hose
Authors: Sun Yiwan , Cai Lihai , Shao Weiguang , Liu Wenyan
Published: August 2022

This paper explores the effects of woven fabric structures on the biaxial tensile mechanical properties and burst properties of woven fabric for layflat hose. A repeat unit cell finite element modeling for woven fabrics for layfalt hose is adopted. To investigate the effects of fabric structure, two parameters are studied: warp yarn spacing and weft yarn linear density. The mechanical response outcomes such as stress distribution, intensity, breaking elongation, and burst properties such as burst pressure, burst direction, are defined and the effects of structure parameters studied on these outcomes are studied. The effects of the warp yarn spacing and the weft yarn linear density on the biaxial tensile mechanical properties and the burst properties of woven fabric for layflat hose are determined. Moreover, the results suggest finite element method exhibits high accuracy in predicting the burst pressure of layflat hose.
Experimental study of explosion overpressure and flame propagation of micro‐sized and nanosized iron powder
Authors: Meng Xiangbao , Wang Zhifeng , Zhang Yansong , Xiao Qin , Yang Panpan
Published: August 2022

In order to study the explosion of micro‐sized and nanosized iron powder, the explosion overpressure and flame propagation were measured in a 20‐L near‐spherical explosion pressure experiment and a Hartmann tube experiment. The explosion overpressure experiments show that the optimum explosion concentrations of micro‐sized and nanosized iron powder are 750 and 375 g/m3, respectively. The maximum explosion pressure and the maximum explosion pressure rise rate of nanosized iron powder are 0.56 MPa and 46.41 MPa/s, which are 144% and 225% of that of micro‐sized iron powder, respectively. Under the optimum explosion concentration, the explosion flame of nanosized iron powder is brighter, and the propagation time is shorter. The maximum propagation velocity of micro‐sized and nanosized iron powder flame is 0.84 and 6.55 m/s, respectively, and the flame pulsation degree of micro‐sized iron powder is larger. The spherical particles and the cracks on the surface of the product particles were observed in the micro images of the explosion products, and the explosion mechanism model of micro‐sized and nanosized iron powder was obtained. It was observed that the deformation of micro‐sized iron particles intensifies, forming regular and complete spherical iron oxide particles.
Wind field and droplet coverage characteristics of air‐assisted sprayer in mango‐tree canopies
Authors: Jiang Shijie , Yang Shenghui , Xu Jiawei , Li Wenwei , Zheng Yongjun , Liu Xingxing , Tan Yu
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

Air‐assisted sprayers is one of the primary fruit tree pest control approaches in agricultural production. It is necessary to study the influence of multiple factors on both wind field and droplet coverage of air‐assisted sprayers. In this article, foliage area volume density (FAVD) and power gradient were considered factors, and field tests were conducted in an orchard to determine such influence.

RESULTS

The results showed that in‐canopy wind speed was mainly affected by the air‐assisted sprayer. FAVD showed significance to the wind speed and droplet coverage inside canopies (P < 0.001), compared with power gradient (P > 0.05). With the increase of FAVD, the wind speed in the bottom layer of canopies first increased and then decreased, while the wind speed in the middle and top layers first decreased and then increased. Meanwhile, the wind field was mainly concentrated on the surface of canopies and gradually approached the canopy center as the power gradient increased. Furthermore, a Back‐Propagation (BP) neural network prediction model was constructed to predict droplet coverage at any canopy location to avoid repeated experiments. The overall correlation coefficient (R) of this model was about 0.731, indicating good fitting performance.

CONCLUSION

FAVD has a significant effect on wind speed and droplet deposition inside the canopy, and the air‐assisted sprayer parameter setting should consider the effect of FAVD. The prediction model can predict droplet deposition inside the canopy without repeating. The study can provide a reference for selecting operating parameters of air‐assisted sprayers and help reduce droplet loss and environmental pollution. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Photoluminescence from Vacancy‐Containing Defects in GaN
Authors: Reshchikov Michael A.
Published: August 2022

Photoluminescence (PL) bands in GaN associated with point defects involving nitrogen or gallium vacancy (VNor VGa) are reviewed. The VN‐containing defects, including the isolated VNand its complexes with acceptors, are often observed in PL from semi‐insulating GaN and are responsible for the green (GL2) and red (the RL2 family) bands. The complexes of the VGawith hydrogen and oxygen are abundantly formed in n‐type GaN grown by the ammonothermal method. Some of these complexes are responsible for PL bands in the red‐yellow region of the PL spectrum.
The construction of preclinical evidence for the treatment of liver fibrosis with quercetin: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Guo Xiaochuan , Li Yuanyuan , Wang Weizheng , Wang Luyao , Hu Sihan , Xiao Xiaolin , Hu Caiyu , Dai Yao , Zhang Yiheng , Li Ziyu , Li Junlin , Ma Xiao , Zeng Jinhao
Published: August 2022

Quercetin (3,3′,4′,5,7‐pentahydroxyflavone), a flavonoid, is widely found in fruits and vegetables and exerts broad‐spectrum pharmacological effects in the liver. Many studies have explored the bioactivity of quercetin in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Hence, through a systematic review and biological mechanism evaluation, this study aimed to construct a body of preclinical evidence for the treatment of liver fibrosis using quercetin. The literature used in this study was mainly obtained from four databases, and the SYRCLE list (10 items) was used to evaluate the quality of the included literature. A meta‐analysis of HA, LN, and other indicators was performed via STATA 15.0 software. Subgroup analyses based on animal species and model protocol were performed to further obtain detailed results. Moreover, the therapeutic mechanism of quercetin was summarized in a directed network form based on a comprehensive search of the literature. After screening, a total of 14 articles (comprising 15 studies) involving 254 animals were included. The results from the analysis showed that the corresponding liver function indexes, such as the levels of HA and LN, were significantly improved in the quercetin group compared with the model group, and liver function, such as the levels of AST and ALT, were also improved in the quercetin group. The species‐ and model‐based subgroup analyses of AST and ALT revealed that quercetin exerts a significant effect. The therapeutic mechanism of quercetin was shown to be related to multiple pathways involving anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities and lipid accumulation, including regulation of the TGF‐β, α‐SMA, ROS, and P‐AMPK pathways. The results showed that quercetin exerts an obvious effect on liver fibrosis, and more prominent improvement effects on liver function and liver fibrosis indicators were obtained with a dose of 5–200 mg during a treatment course ranging from 4 to 8 weeks. Quercetin might be a promising therapeutic for liver fibrosis.
Flavonoid extract of saffron by‐product alleviates hyperuricemia via inhibiting xanthine oxidase and modulating gut microbiota
Authors: Chen Na , Wang Ran , Li Hua , Wang Weihao , Wang Lan , Yin Xiaojie , Yao Rongmei , Yang Bin
Published: August 2022

Hyperuricemia was associated with the overproduction or inadequate excretion of uric acid, while its association with gut microbiota has emerged although few studies were focused on it. Previously, we have reported a flavonoid extract from saffron floral bio‐residues lowered uric acid in potassium oxonate‐induced hyperuricemic mice. In this study, the impacts of the flavonoid extract on potassium oxonate‐induced hyperuricemic rats were evaluated through its effects on serum, renal, intestinal uric acid, and xanthine oxidase activity. At the same time, the microbial and metabolic features of the flavonoid extract against hyperuricemia were explored using 16S rRNA sequencing techniques and serum metabolomics, respectively. According to the results, the flavonoid extract lowered serum and intestinal uric acid levels in hyperuricemic rats without kidney damage. On the one hand, it inhibited serum and liver xanthine oxidase activities and down‐regulated the expression of hepatic xanthine oxidase. On the other hand, it ameliorated the hyperuricemia‐associated gut microbiota dysbiosis and alleviated the disturbance of serum metabolome, especially of lipid and amino acid metabolites. The results suggested that the flavonoid extract of saffron floral bio‐residues exerts a potent antihyperuricemia effect by inhibiting xanthine oxidase to decrease uric acid production and modulating gut microbiota related to host metabolism.
A rapid and sensitive ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method for determination of anlotinib in plasma and dried blood spots: Method development, validation, and clinical application
Authors: Zhang Ji , Wang Wenzheng , Du Jiaqi , Li Cai , Wang Suyun , Han Yikai , Wang Huafei , Zong Hong , Cheng Zhe , Tian Xin
Published: August 2022

Rationale

Anlotinib is a multi‐target tyrosine kinase inhibitor, approved in China for treating several cancer types. Dose individualization based on therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is a useful tool to reduce toxicity. However, it is not convenient for patients to go to hospital for routine TDM via venous blood sampling at a certain time.

Methods

An ultra‐performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) method was developed and validated for determination of anlotinib in human plasma and dried blood spot (DBS), characterized by simple sample preparation, high sensitivity, and short analysis time. The assay was validated in the concentration range of 0.2–200 ng/mL in plasma and 5–1000 ng/mL in DBS. This method was applied to monitor anlotinib exposure levels in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) and non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Results

The trough plasma concentration (Ctrough) of anlotinib was highly variable among BTC patients with coefficients of variation (CV) of 47.5%. DBS and venous blood samples were also collected from NSCLC patients to determine whether DBS sampling is a viable alternative sampling approach. Pearson correlation coefficient (R) between DBS and plasma concentration was 0.985. Bland–Altman plot demonstrated that the difference between estimated and measured plasma concentration was −2.9%. And 87% of sample pairs had a maximal deviation of ±20%.

Conclusions

Anlotinib exhibits a high inter‐individual variability in plasma exposure, and DBS sampling could be a promising tool for TDM of anlotinib.
A redesign methodology generating predefined‐time differentiators with bounded time‐varying gains
Authors: Aldana‐López Rodrigo , Seeber Richard , Gómez‐Gutiérrez David , Angulo Marco Tulio , Defoort Michael
Published: August 2022

There is an increasing interest in designing differentiators, which converge exactly before a prespecified time regardless of the initial conditions, that is, which are fixed‐time convergent with a predefined upper bound of their settling time (UBST), due to their ability to solve estimation and control problems with time constraints. However, for the class of signals with a known bound of their th time derivative, the existing design methodologies yield a very conservative UBST, or result in gains that tend to infinity at the convergence time. Here, we introduce a new methodology based on time‐varying gains (TVG) to design arbitrary‐order exact differentiators with a predefined UBST. This UBST is a priori set as one parameter of the algorithm. Our approach guarantees that the UBST can be set arbitrarily tight, and we also provide sufficient conditions to obtain exact convergence while maintaining bounded TVG. Additionally, we provide necessary and sufficient conditions such that our approach yields error dynamics with a uniformly Lyapunov stable equilibrium. Our results show how TVG offer a general and flexible methodology to design algorithms with a predefined UBST.
Evaluating hydrologic region assignment techniques for ungaged basins in Alaska, USA
Authors: Barnhart Theodore B. , Farmer William H. , Hammond John C. , Sexstone Graham A. , Curran Janet H. , Koch Joshua C. , Driscoll Jessica M.
Published: August 2022

Building continental‐scale hydrologic models in data‐sparse regions requires an understanding of spatial variation in hydrologic processes. Extending these models to ungaged locations requires techniques to group ungaged locations with gaged ones to make process importance and model parameter transfer decisions to ungaged locations. This analysis (1) tested the utility of fundamental streamflow statistics (FDSS) in defining hydrologic regions across Alaska, USA; (2) evaluated if the hydrologic regions represented different hydrologic processes; and (3) tested the ability of random forest and direct assignment techniques, informed by statistically estimated FDSS (FDSSest) and basin characteristics (BCs), to correctly assign ungaged locations to hydrologic regions. Six hydrologic regions were identified across the domain using FDSS. Differences in mean flow, phase shift of the seasonal cycle, and skewness were the primary characteristics defining each region. Two regions represented arctic and continental climates, generally in the northern portion of the domain; four regions represented the southern, maritime portion of the domain. Random forest modeling with BCs (67% success rate) outperformed FDSSest (58% success rate) suggesting that no statistically estimated streamflow was needed to assign ungaged locations to a region. For regions with many sites, most region assignment techniques performed similarly. Random forest modeling performance declined when BCs and FDSSest were both used to predict region membership, suggesting FDSSest had little information in addition to BCs. This analysis demonstrated that FDSS‐based hydrologic regions discern process differences across a data‐sparse and hydrologically diverse landscape. Process importance rankings from random forest‐derived BCs provided model‐independent information for making modeling decisions.

Key points

Fundamental daily streamflow statistics produce distinct hydrologic regions across Alaska, USA

Distinct hydrologic processes are recognizable in the identified hydrologic regions

Using basin characteristics, random forest modeling was best able to assign ungaged locations to hydrologic regions

Random forest‐derived predictor importance suggests that hydroclimatic factors and permafrost presence/absence drive hydrologic region assignment
Understanding the influence of check dam and season on habitat use to develop habitat suitability criteria for overwintering tadpoles of Nanorana spp.
Authors: Jithin Vijayan , Das Abhijit , Johnson Jeyaraj A.
Published: August 2022

Understanding habitat availability and use patterns are essential in developing comprehensive conservation strategies for focal species. Studies on amphibian larval habitat use are limited, especially from modified habitats. We investigated the habitat availability and use patterns of overwintering tadpoles of the Nanorana frog in an anthropogenically modified stream in the western Himalaya. Habitat was assessed in terms of depth, velocity, substrate type, and instream cover. We quantified the microhabitat preference of the tadpoles to develop habitat suitability criteria (HSC) curves, the biological component of habitat simulation tools used in instream flow management. We analyzed the data covering winter and post‐winter seasons using cumulative link mixed models to understand the influence of check dams and seasons on the hydraulic properties of microhabitats used by the tadpoles. We confirm the influence of check dam and season on velocity and the influence of season on depth used by the tadpoles. Based on this, we generated HSCs for tadpoles occurring in natural and modified pools during both seasons. We recommend intermediate water depths (30–60 cm) during the low flow season to sustain the tadpole population in the study stream and other required habitat features. The study underlines the importance of spatial and temporal variation in the habitat suitability for Nanorana tadpoles. These HSCs can be used in hydrological models for estimating the minimum ecological flow for overwintering tadpoles in the study area. A large‐scale study based on the recommendations can lead to a better conservation plan in light of altered streamflow in the western Himalaya region.
Out‐of‐bag stability estimation for k‐means clustering
Authors: Liu Tianmou , Yu Han , Blair Rachael Hageman
Published: August 2022

Clustering data is a challenging problem in unsupervised learning where there is no gold standard. Results depend on several factors, such as the selection of a clustering method, measures of dissimilarity, parameters, and the determination of the number of reliable groupings. Stability has become a valuable surrogate to performance and robustness that can provide insight to an investigator on the quality of a clustering, and guidance on subsequent cluster prioritization. This work develops a framework for stability measurements that is based on resampling and OB estimation. Bootstrapping methods for cluster stability can be prone to overfitting in a setting that is analogous to poor delineation of test and training sets in supervised learning. Stability that relies on OB items from a resampling overcomes these issues and does not depend on a reference clustering for comparisons. Furthermore, OB stability can provide estimates at the level of the item, cluster, and as an overall summary, which has good interpretive value. This framework is extended to develop stability estimates for determining the number of clusters (model selection) through contrasts between stability estimates on clustered data, and stability estimates of clustered reference data with no signal. These contrasts form stability profiles that can be used to identify the largest differences in stability and do not require a direct threshold on stability values, which tend to be data specific. These approaches can be implemented using the R package bootcluster that is available on the Comprehensive R Archive Network.