bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multicentric observational study of imaging findings in COVID-19-related rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis: a new Pandora’s box
Authors: Singhal Annu , Jain Shikha , Sharma Swati , Kottiyath Vivek Cherumanalil , Khandelwal Girish
Published: October 2021

Background

There is a sudden rise of fungal infection with corona virus disease. This is attributed to the immunomodulation by the disease and the drugs used, diabetes mellitus, steroid use, oxygen inhalation using dirty water, use of zinc and iron supplements, etc. Early diagnosis and prompt medical and surgical intervention is the mainstay of treatment. This can greatly reduce the high morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. The objective of the study is to describe the imaging findings of acute invasive rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) in 25 patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2, from three different centers with proven mucormycosis. Special emphasis is placed on the signal enhancement patterns of sinonasal mucosa, the earliest and most common findings. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of 25 patients showed most commonly involved sinuses as maxillary and ethmoid sinuses (19, 76%) together. Sino-nasal mucosal thickening was the most common finding (24, 96%). Periantral infiltration (18, 72%) preceded before orbital (15, 60%), cerebral (5, 20%) and vascular (2, 8%) complications, with grossly intact bones. Sinus wall erosions were seen in only 2 patients (8%). Palatal (22%) and maxillary alveolar arch erosion (39%) were frequent findings. CT showed minimally enhancing hypodense soft tissue thickening as the predominant finding in involved areas, while MRI showed T1 and T2 iso- to hypointense mucosal thickening (62%) and intense (43%) and no (33%) contrast enhancement as the main finding.

Conclusions

Contrast enhanced MRI is better at demonstrating early mucosal abnormalities, turbinate necrosis, non-enhancing devitalized tissues, orbital apex involvement and intra-cerebral extension. Imaging findings of inflammatory tissue infiltration adjacent to the paranasal sinuses in premaxillary, retroantral fat, facial muscles, pterygopalatine fossa, temporal, infratemporal fossa and extraconal orbital fat along with typical patterns of sinonasal mucosal enhancement should raise the suspicion of acute invasive fungal etiology given the short duration of history and immunocompromised status. High incidence of periantral and orbital extension of the disease is suggestive of acute invasive form of fungal infection. Also the rapidly progressive inflammatory changes without much bone involvement should suggest the suspicion of ROCM. Bony, cerebral and vascular involvements are relatively late complications.
Effect of retro walking versus balance training on pain and disability in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Krishnan Vijaya , Pithadia Krishna
Published: October 2021

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative, inflammatory musculoskeletal dysfunction. It is associated with pain, reduced functional capacity, and deficient quality of life posing a challenge for rehabilitation. The study objective was to determine the treatment protocol for effectively managing pain and functional disability of patients with OA knee.

Methods

This is a single-blinded study conducted in the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital. This three-arm study consisted of 20 patients randomly allocated to each group, prearranged to receive conventional treatment (group A), conventional treatment with retro walking training (group B), and conventional treatment with balance training (group C) for a time frame of 6 weeks. Patients were screened prior to the pre-set eligibility criteria before inclusion in the study. Pain and functional disability were assessed at the baseline and post-intervention.

Results

The findings reported 66.66% female participation. The results established statistical significance for both pain and functional disability across all the three groups for both intergroup and intragroup analysis. Group B demonstrated the most promising results.

Conclusion

The 6-week rehabilitation protocol comprising retro walking as an adjunct to conventional therapy resulted in greater pain reduction and enhanced functional performance of patients with OA knee. This benefits the community at large. All stakeholders should be encouraged to include retro walking in their routine life.

Trial registration

The University Hospital Medical Information Network Centre (UMIN-CTR), UMIN000044483. Retrospectively registered on June 09, 2021.
Nonfunctioning Pituitary Microadenomas: Should Imaging Interval be Extended? A Large Single-center Cohort Study
Authors: Han Ashley J , Varlamov Elena V , Fleseriu Maria
Published: October 2021

Context

Characterization of the clinical features and natural history of nonfunctioning pituitary microadenomas (NFPmAs) is limited by heterogeneous and small-scale studies.

Objective

To characterize the clinical presentation and natural history of NFPmAs and evaluate if imaging follow-up interval can be extended.

Methods

Retrospective single-center cohort study (years 2006-2021) of conservatively managed patients with NFPmAs. Initial symptoms, pituitary function, and tumor size were assessed. A change in NFPmA size ≥2 mm, as determined by pituitary or brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), was considered significant.

Results

There were 347 patients in the study cohort. Headache (78.4%) and fatigue (70.0%) were commonly reported despite no evidence of mass effect or significant pituitary hypofunction. Pituitary deficiencies at baseline were rare, with hypogonadism being most common (5.1%). During a median imaging follow-up period of 29 months (range 3-154), 8.1% of NFPmAs grew. Growth incidence was 2.1 per 100 person-years with a mean and median time to growth of 38.1 (SD ± 36.4) and 24.5 (interquartile range 12.0-70.8) months, respectively. Tumor growth was mild and not associated with new pituitary deficiencies or visual deficits.

Conclusion

These data indicate that the natural history of NFPmAs is overall benign. Consequently, we propose that the initial MRI follow-up timeline for NFPmAs can be extended up to 3 years unless a lesion is close to the optic chiasm, there are worrisome mass effect symptoms, or new pituitary deficiencies.
Guide to Enhanced Recovery for Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery: ERAS and Oesophagectomy
Authors: Moorthy Krishna , Halliday Laura
Published: October 2021

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols are widely used in oesophageal cancer surgery. Multiple studies have demonstrated that ERAS protocols are associated with a shorter length of stay and a reduction in the incidence of post-operative complications after oesophagectomy. However, there is substantial heterogeneity in the content of ERAS protocols and the delivery of these pathways can be challenging. This paper discusses the key recommendations for ERAS protocols in oesophageal cancer surgery and the barriers and facilitating factors for their successful implementation.
Ιστορική θεώρηση της πολιτικής και της διεθνούς διάστασης ζητημάτων αμυντικής ασφαλείας στην Κύπρο και στην Ελλάδα στη δεκαετία 1960-1970
Authors: Χατζηιωακείμ Νικόλαος
Published: October 2021

Στη διδακτορική διατριβή εξετάζονται οι πολιτικές άμυνας κι ασφάλειας της Κύπρου και της Ελλάδας κατά το α΄ ήμισυ της δεκαετίας 1960-1970, μέσω κυρίως της ανάλυσης των προσπαθειών τους να εκπονήσουν κρατικά εξοπλιστικά προγράμματα, καθώς και οι αντιδράσεις που αυτά προξένησαν στο εξωτερικό περιβάλλον τους. Κατά την κριτική προσέγγιση αξιολογούνται α) το ευρύ και το περιφερειακό διεθνές πλαίσιο (ο Ψυχρός Πόλεμος, το διμερές αμερικανοβρετανικό ισοζύγιο ισχύος, η Μεσανατολική Σύγκρουση και η αλληλεπίδρασή τους), β) οι διαδικασίες λήψης αποφάσεων στην Ελλάδα και την Κύπρο, γ) η εξέλιξη των πολιτικοστρατιωτικών σχέσεων μεταξύ τους και με την Τουρκία. Εκτός από την αναλυτική παρουσίαση των πολιτικών και διπλωματικών διεργασιών, η διατριβή περιλαμβάνει διεξοδική αναφορά σε στρατιωτικές όψεις της μελετώμενης θεματικής σε ένα ευρύ φάσμα, από την Οικονομία της Άμυνας έως τους επιτελικούς σχεδιασμούς. Το κείμενο χωρίζεται σε δύο Κύρια Μέρη και ένα Παραρτηματικό Κεφάλαιο. Σε επίπεδο πρωτογενών πηγών, βασίζεται σε αδημοσίευτο αρχειακό υλικό στρατιωτικής και διπλωματικής προέλευσης, κρατών και διεθνών Οργανισμών. Αξιοποιήθηκαν παράλληλα πολυάριθμες μαρτυρίες (απομνημονεύματα, συνεντεύξεις), καθώς κι εκτεταμένη δευτερογενής εργοραφία.
Prevalence and associates of depression among rural and urban Rwandan mothers and their daughters 26 years after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi
Authors: Mutuyimana Celestin , Cassady Cindi , Sezibera Vincent , Nsabimana Epaphrodite
Published: October 2021

Background: Mental disorders continue to be a challenge for Rwandan society, especially for women after the genocide against the Tutsi. The risk of inheritance of mental disorders is eminent. We therefore conducted a study on the prevalence of depression among grandmothers and their daughters using quantitative data. This paper explains in detail why and how the dataset was created, and it describes the dataset itself. This will allow readers to easily access and use the data. 

Methods: A sample of 309 dyads of mothers and daughters was recruited. Data were collected using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Life Events Questionnaire and the Social Demographics Questionnaire. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, logistic regression, and one-way ANOVA.
Skin swabbing protocol to collect DNA samples from small-bodied fish species
Authors: Tilley Ceinwen , Barber Iain , Norton William
Published: October 2021

Fish species are commonly used as experimental models in the laboratory. DNA is routinely collected from these animals to permit identification of their genotype. The current standard procedure to sample DNA is fin clipping, which involves anaesthetising individuals and removing a portion of the caudal fin. While fin clipping reliably generates good quality DNA samples for downstream applications, there is evidence that it can alter health and welfare, leading to infection and impacting on the fish’s behaviour. This in turn can result in greater variation in the data collected. In a recent study we adapted a skin swabbing protocol to collect DNA from small-bodied fish, including sticklebacks and zebrafish, without the use of anaesthetics or sharp instruments. A rayon-tipped swab was used to collect mucus from the flank of the fish, which was then used for DNA extraction. We subsequently demonstrated that compared to fin clipping, skin swabbing triggered fewer changes in stress axis activation and behaviour. We also found that data collected from fish that had been swabbed were less variable than data from fish that had been fin clipped, potentially allowing smaller sample sizes in experimental groups after using this technique, and thereby reducing animal use. Here we provide a detailed protocol explaining how to collect DNA samples from small laboratory fish using skin swabs.
Local invertibility and sensitivity of atomic structure-feature mappings
Authors: Pozdnyakov Sergey N. , Zhang Liwei , Ortner Christoph , Csányi Gábor , Ceriotti Michele
Published: October 2021

Background: The increasingly common applications of machine-learning schemes to atomic-scale simulations have triggered efforts to better understand the mathematical properties of the mapping between the Cartesian coordinates of the atoms and the variety of representations that can be used to convert them into a finite set of symmetric descriptors or features.

Methods: Here, we analyze the sensitivity of the mapping to atomic displacements, using a singular value decomposition of the Jacobian of the transformation to quantify the sensitivity for different configurations, choice of representations and implementation details. 

Results: We show that the combination of symmetry and smoothness leads to mappings that have singular points at which the Jacobian has one or more null singular values (besides those corresponding to infinitesimal translations and rotations). This is in fact desirable, because it enforces physical symmetry constraints on the values predicted by regression models constructed using such representations. However, besides these symmetry-induced singularities, there are also spurious singular points, that we find to be linked to the incompleteness of the mapping, i.e. the fact that, for certain classes of representations, structurally distinct configurations are not guaranteed to be mapped onto different feature vectors. Additional singularities can be introduced by a too aggressive truncation of the infinite basis set that is used to discretize the representations.

Conclusions: These results exemplify the subtle issues that arise when constructing symmetric representations of atomic structures, and provide conceptual and numerical tools to identify and investigate them in both benchmark and realistic applications.
Täiskasvanute õppimisest ja õpetamisest. Sissejuhatus raamatusse
Authors: Jõgi Larissa , Mikser Rain
Published: October 2021

Väljaanne "Andragoogika. Raamat täiskasvanute õppimisest ja õpetamisest" ilmus kirjastuses ATLEX 2021. aasta algul. Raamatu neli osa käsitlevad täiskasvanuhariduse teooriaid, arengulugu, õppimis- ja õpetamispõhimõtteid, õpikeskkonda ning õppimise vajalikkust täiskasvanueas. Raamat on mõeldud täiskasvanuharidusega tegelejate laiale ringile, sealhulgas andragoogika üliõpilastele. Peatükid sisaldavad täiskasvanuhariduse mõistete ja terminite seletusi, teooriate põhiseisukohti ning arutelu, soovituslikku kirjandust, samuti näiteid uurimustes osalejatega tehtud intervjuudest ja autorite kommentaare. Kuna seni on terviklik ja süsteemne eestikeelne käsitus andragoogika mõtteloost ja põhiteemadest puudunud, ongi raamat alguseks selle lünga edasisel täitmisel.
Assessment of Food Security in Russia in the Conditions of Global Changes
Authors: Yakovenko N.
Published: October 2021

To study the problems of ensuring food security in Russia under the conditions of external restrictions, an analysis of the dynamic and structural characteristics of the functioning of the country's agri-food complex was carried out. The persistence of positive trends in self-sufficiency and the formation of the personal consumption fund for basic food products is revealed. Changes in foreign trade turnover of food, import substitution in the national food market are assessed. A high dependence of the coun-try's agri-food complex on imports of the main types of machinery and equipment, technologies and innovative developments has been revealed. Qualitative shifts in the sectoral structure of the agri-food complex should be aimed at transformation of crisis sectors and industries on a new technological basis, development and introduction of resource-saving and progressive technologies, and at leveling imbalances in the devel-opment of sectors. The risks of ensuring food security in Russia in modern conditions include a decrease in the effective demand of the population for food products, which is associated with a drop in income and an increase in prices for basic food products in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The necessity of strengthening protectionism and strategic orientation of management of the agri-food complex, formation of a manage-ment system that meets the long-term challenges of globalization has been substantiated.
Development Management of Competence Centers
Authors: Viter K.
Published: October 2021

The article provides a classification of centers of competence, which e subdivided into corporate, university, regional, industry, as well as excellent scientific and educational centers. The features of the work and areas of activity of each of the centers presented according to the classification are considered. In addition, the analysis of possible models of the competence center: value chain, digital integration platform and ecosystem carried out. The advantages and disadvantages of each of the models considered, their graphic interpretation presented.

Based on the results of consideration of each of the models of competence centers, a justification made for the choice of one or another model of the competence center, depending on the specifics of the organization. In the course of the research, the main digital competencies (soft skills and hard skills) also considered. In accordance with these competencies, an analysis was made of the compliance of these competencies with each of the three models of interaction between participants in the creation of products (services) (value chain, digital integration platform and ecosystem).

Because of the analysis, the choice of each of the considered models realized, depending on their compliance with new digital competencies.
Some Problems of the Transition to a Foreign Economy in Modern Russia
Authors: Basovskaya Elena , Basovskiy Leonid
Published: October 2021

The aim of the work was to identify the problems of transition to a new post-industrial - information economy. To analyze and identify problems, the construction of econometric models of extended production functions was used. The main most com-mon reason for the contradictory influence of new information and digital technologies on the economy in the country is the failure of institutions to meet the requirements of the new economic system. Another important reason is the widely used outdated admin-istrative and control style of management, characteristic of the industrial economy, the difficulties in mastering the use of digital technologies by management personnel.
Starania Czartoryskich o wciągnięcie Rosji w sprawy polskie w 1754 roku (sprawa rzekomej gwarancji)
Authors: Szwaciński Tomasz
Published: October 2021

W grudniu 1754 r. Michał i August Czartoryscy wysłali do kanclerza rosyjskiego Aleksego Bestużewa-Riumina dwa listy. Prosili w nich o wsparcie Petersburga, bowiem uważali, że w Rzeczypospolitej doszło do złamania podstawowych praw. Za podstawę prawną rosyjskiej ingerencji uznali rzekomą gwarancję polskiego ustroju.
O problemie reakcji społeczeństwa szlacheckiego na pierwszy rozbiór raz jeszcze. Uwagi na kanwie edycji korespondencji i gazetek rękopiśmiennych Jędrzeja Kitowicza
Authors: Dukwicz Dorota
Published: October 2021

W powszechnej opinii panuje przekonanie, że pierwszy rozbiór Rzeczypospolitej wywołał szok w świadomości społeczeństwa szlacheckiego. Badania źródłowe nie potwierdzają tej tezy. Wręcz przeciwnie, pokazują, że szlachta zareagowała spokojnie, nadspodziewanie długo łudząc się, że jest to tylko przejściowa sytuacja. Wydane drukiem Korespondencja i gazetki rękopiśmienne Jędrzeja Kitowicza z lat 1771–1776 są znakomitym źródłem do śledzenia nastrojów, oczekiwań i złudzeń szlachty w szeroko pojętej dobie pierwszego rozbioru.
Equilibria and Systemic Risk in Saturated Networks
Authors: Massai Leonardo , Como Giacomo , Fagnani Fabio
Published: October 2021

We undertake a fundamental study of network equilibria modeled as solutions of fixed-point equations for monotone linear functions with saturation nonlinearities. The considered model extends one originally proposed to study systemic risk in networks of financial institutions interconnected by mutual obligations. It is one of the simplest continuous models accounting for shock propagation phenomena and cascading failure effects. This model also characterizes Nash equilibria of constrained quadratic network games with strategic complementarities. We first derive explicit expressions for network equilibria and prove necessary and sufficient conditions for their uniqueness, encompassing and generalizing results available in the literature. Then, we study jump discontinuities of the network equilibria when the exogenous flows cross certain regions of measure 0 representable as graphs of continuous functions. Finally, we discuss some implications of our results in the two main motivating applications. In financial networks, this bifurcation phenomenon is responsible for how small shocks in the assets of a few nodes can trigger major aggregate losses to the system and cause the default of several agents. In constrained quadratic network games, it induces a blow-up behavior of the sensitivity of Nash equilibria with respect to the individual benefits.
Osteogenesis imperfecta: minimizing complications in oral surgery/orthodontic treatment
Authors: Jordan Kaye , Carter Emily , Devine Ciarán P , Tsichlaki Aliki , Jones Judith
Published: October 2021

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic condition that affects connective tissue and is primarily characterized by bone fragility. Owing to the progressive nature of the disease, patients require life-long management of the adverse effects and the subsequent complications they can experience. Since the introduction of bisphosphonates as a treatment modality, complications and bone deformities associated with OI have been minimized. However, intravenous bisphosphonates in young patients could present a new era of difficulties for the dental profession. We report on a case of a patient with OI who presented with severe orthodontic crowding and describe the multidisciplinary treatment planning required to minimize potential complications.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: General dental practitioners should be aware of the characteristics of osteogenesis imperfecta and the potential complications associated with dental treatment.
Raising awareness of acute onset of swelling and lip paraesthesia in a teenage patient
Authors: Boscarino Angela , Rogers Simon N
Published: October 2021

We report a case of papillary renal cell carcinoma in a 19-year-old patient that manifested as ipsilateral numbness of the lower lip and swelling in the region of masseter insertion. Despite there being widespread metastatic disease at presentation, the diagnosis was delayed with false reassurance from a normal brain scan and the assumption that the symptoms were due to infection related to the lower wisdom tooth. Once the primary tumour site was established, the patient responded to the relatively new immunotherapy treatments for advanced renal cell carcinoma as advocated in the 2019 NICE guidance. There are no other documented case reports that discuss papillary renal carcinoma with metastatic spread to the mandible in teenagers.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This case highlights the importance of malignancy being a differential diagnosis of lip paraesthesia irrespective of age.
Racial disparities in emergency care for seizures in the United States
Authors: Gaddam Sriman
Published: October 2021

Background

Racial disparities exist regarding emergency medical services, and advanced life support (ALS) is superior to basic life support (BLS) for patients experiencing a seizure.

Aims

This study aims to identify if there are racial disparities regarding access to ALS care for patients having a seizure.

Methods

This study analysed 624 011 seizure cases regarding the provision of BLS rather than ALS care per racial group. Chi-square testing was used to check statistical significance and effect size was measured using relative risk.

Findings

On average, non-white patients experiencing a seizure had a 21% higher relative risk of receiving BLS care than white patients. The highest disparity concerned American Indian patients, who had a 66% higher relative risk of receiving BLS care than white patients.

Conclusions

Overall, non-white patients are less likely to receive ALS when experiencing a seizure than white patients, potentially leading to worse prehospital outcomes from less access to time-critical medications.
Building ad-hoc team social capital through simulation
Authors: Slack Meagan , Pierazzo Joanna
Published: October 2021

The concept of high-functioning healthcare teams is complex and competencies have been developed primarily from aviation. High-functioning healthcare teams, including those formed in an ad-hoc manner, are crucial to positive patient outcomes. Social capital theory identifies structural, cognitive and relational dimensions involved in the formation of trusting, cohesive relationships. Theories of social capital can be used to advise the development of interprofessional simulation-based education. Interprofessional simulation-based education curricula development must focus on the social sciences if it is to promote strong, healthy team relationships. Simulation-based education should take place in learning environments that promote the development of social capital between team members, especially where teams are formed ad hoc.
Learning needs of health visitors and family nurses in the care of preterm infants in Scotland
Authors: McEwan Tom , Matta Nashwa , MacFadyen Una
Published: October 2021

In Scotland and across the UK, health visitors and family nurses provide ongoing assessment and care for the preterm infant and their family following discharge from hospital. This study demonstrates that health professionals in Scotland feel underprepared for this responsibility and that the causes of are multifaceted. Practitioners highlight areas of concern that will guide educational providers to consider amendments to their curricula or provision of continuing professional development.
Complications of surgical reconstruction of multiligament injuries of the knee joint: diagnosis, prevention and treatment
Authors: Rodríguez-Merchán E. Carlos , De la Corte-Rodríguez Hortensia , Encinas-Ullán Carlos A. , Gómez-Cardero Primitivo
Published: October 2021

The main complications of surgical reconstruction of multiligament injuries of the knee joint are residual or recurrent instability, arthrofibrosis, popliteal artery injury, common peroneal nerve injury, compartment syndrome, fluid extravasation, symptomatic heterotopic ossification, wound problems and infection, deep venous thrombosis, and revision surgery. Careful surgical planning and execution of the primary surgical reconstruction of multiligament injuries of the knee joint can minimize the risk of the aforementioned complications. Careful postoperative follow-up is required to detect complications. Early recognition and prompt treatment are of paramount importance. To obtain good results in the revision surgery of failed multiligamentary knee reconstructions, it is crucial to perform a thorough and exhaustive evaluation to detect all the causes of failure. Addressing all associated injuries during revision surgery will lead to the best possible subjective and objective results, although functional outcomes are often modest. However, advanced age and high-energy injuries have been associated with the poorest functional outcomes after revision surgery of failed multiligament injuries of the knee joint.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:973-981. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.210057
Evaluation of Horizontal Patternators According to International Standard Requirements for Boom Sprayers
Authors: Gil Emilio , Bueno Mariana , Campos Javier , Gallart Montserrat , Da Cunha Joao P. A. R.
Published: October 2021

Highlights

Horizontal distribution according ISO Standard 16119 is a measurement procedure to evaluate boom sprayers.

ISO Standards 5682-1 and 5682-2 establish technical requirements for horizontal patternators.

In this study, three types of patternators were evaluated to test their capability to meet the standards.

The evaluated patternators showed similar results for spray distribution patterns.

Minor deviations from ISO Standard 5682 did not imply differences according ISO Standard 16119.

Abstract. Uniformity of spray volume distribution is one of the officially established measurements for the evaluation of horizontal boom sprayers according to ISO Standard 16119 and requirements established by ISO Standard 16122. Measurement of spray distribution patterns requires the use of specific devices such as horizontal patternators, which are included in the technical specifications for ISO Standards 5682-1 and 5682-2. Three such devices were tested, including two manual patternators (fixed and mobile) and one electronic patternator. According to information provided by the manufacturers, all three patternators align with ISO requirements. This study evaluated and compared the results obtained with the three patternators. Specifically, the horizontal distributions measured by the patternators were evaluated and compared using four nozzle types (XR 11003, AIXR 11003, TTJ60 11003, and AITTJ60 11003), three boom heights, and three operating pressures. Tests were conducted to quantify single-nozzle spray patterns, the coefficient of variation (CV) of the entire boom distribution, the liquid recovery capability of the three patternators, and the ability to simulate the entire boom spray distribution from a single-nozzle spray pattern. Results demonstrated correct functioning of all three patternators, resulting in identical conclusions considering the requirements established in the ISO standards. The CV values of the horizontal distributions were less than 10% for all cases. Moreover, the trends in values for all the evaluated factors (nozzle type, boom height, and operating pressure) were the same, independent of the patternator used. Keywords: ISO 16119, ISO 16122, ISO 5682, Liquid recovery, Nozzle spray pattern, Patternator, Spray boom, Transverse distribution, Uniformity.
A Dynamic Model for the Relationship between Rice Growth and Meteorology, Water, Nitrogen, and Canopy Structure
Authors: Tatsumi Kenichi
Published: October 2021

Highlights

A simulation model was built for understanding rice growth dynamics.

Two rice cultivars under two nitrogen fertilization conditions were simulated.

Simulated dry weight agreed well with the measured values.

Daily maximum temperature was negatively correlated with rice growth.

Abstract. Crop growth models are highly effective tools for solving various practical problems in agriculture, such as farm decision-making, agronomic management, and prediction of climate change impact on crop growth. This article presents a robust model to explain the dynamics among microclimate, canopy structure, and rice biomass growth based on ecological, physiological, and physical processes. Meteorological values, leaf area index (LAI), plant height, and dry weight of leaf, stem, and panicle were intermittently measured in the field for two rice cultivars under two different nitrogen (N) fertilization conditions during the 2017 and 2018 growing periods. Based on these measurements, a comprehensive and robust growth model, the Integrated Rice Growth Model (iRGM), was developed for rice growth simulations under various meteorological, fertilizer, and water conditions. The results showed that the iRGM provided sufficient quantitative explanations for the measured rice growth dynamics in the field compared with the ORYZA2000 model. Moreover, parameter sensitivity analyses showed that the initial slope of the light response curve had a significant effect on the dry weight throughout the growing period. Growth conversion efficiency, maintenance respiration rate, and daily increase in LAI also had larger influences on rice growth. On the other hand, the maximum temperature, which increased by 10% over the values obtained in the rice field, was negatively correlated with growth. This model would be useful for quantitative evaluations and predictions of complex systems encountered in environmental management and cultivar stability. Keywords: Canopy structure, Dry weight, Microclimate, Rice dynamic growth model, Sensitivity analysis.
The Manitoba Land Calculator: A Tool to Estimate Land Requirements for Manure Application in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Cordeiro Roniele , Loro Petra , Cordeiro Marcos , Sawka Clay , Ominski Kim , Flaten Don
Published: October 2021

Highlights

The Manitoba Land Calculator is a tool to estimate land requirements for new and expanding livestock operations.

This new tool reflects Manitoba production practices and recent advances in animal and crop performance.

Considerably more land is needed for management of manure phosphorus than when only nitrogen is considered.

Sufficient land for application of manure supports the environmental sustainability of livestock production.

Abstract. The planning of new livestock and poultry facilities or expansion of existing facilities should ensure sufficient land for manure application. Decision support tools used to establish land requirements for manure nutrients should take into consideration advances in animal genetics, performance, feeding strategies, and available feeds. This article presents a new tool for estimating land requirements for new and expanding pig, beef, dairy, and poultry operations in the province of Manitoba, Canada. The Manitoba Land Calculator (MLC) estimates land requirements for manure nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). It uses a mass balance approach to estimate nutrient excretion by livestock and poultry based on typical Manitoba feeding practices, weight gain, and production cycles. Crop nutrient utilization and removals can be calculated for 20 common crops grown in Manitoba using reliable long-term yields and farm-specific crop areas. Two case studies (pig and poultry) were selected from the Livestock Technical Review Public Registry on the Government of Manitoba website to illustrate the inputs and outputs associated with the MLC. The results indicated that land requirements increased by 4.6-fold and 5.7-fold for the poultry and pig operations, respectively, compared to the previous provincial methodology due to the inclusion of P in the model. Securing additional land during the planning stages will support the implementation of nutrient stewardship principles that ensure the long-term environmental sustainability of livestock operations. Keywords: Animal production, Land requirements, Livestock and poultry, Manure, Mass balance, Nutrient excretion.
A Location Management Strategy for Satellite Internet Constellation
Authors: Liu Hanmin , Shen Jie , Jia Xia , Wang Shiwei
Published: October 2021

Satellites are currently the most effective means to achieve seamless global coverage of the Internet. Due to the frequent beam switching caused by the high-speed movement of satellites, it is too expensive to directly apply the location management strategy in the terrestrial network to the satellite Internet constellation (SIC). To build a web browsing platform based on satellite Internet, it is necessary to display the location of satellites and terminals in real time. For this reason, this paper proposes the location management strategy of SIC. It uses the characteristics of large and periodic satellite beam coverage in a certain period of time, redesigns the location management database structure, location registration mechanism and call delivery mechanism, and analyses and simulates the bit cost of location management. The result proves that compared with the traditional strategy, this strategy greatly reduces the cost of SIC.
Photonic-based analog and digital RF self-interference cancellation with high spectral efficiency
Authors: Shi Taixia , Han Moxuan , Chen Yang
Published: October 2021

A photonic-assisted analog and digital radio frequency (RF) self-interference cancellation (SIC) approach with high spectral efficiency is reported for base stations in in-band full-duplex radio-over-fiber systems on the basis of our previous research. One dual-polarization quadrature phase-shift keying (DP-QPSK) modulator is used as the canceller for one base station. The two dual-parallel Mach–Zehnder modulators of the DP-QPSK modulator are both biased as carrier-suppressed single-sideband modulators and driven by the received signal and reference signal, respectively, to achieve high spectral efficiency while implementing the SIC in the optical domain. The baseband optical signal after SIC is further transmitted to the central station, where the electrical signal is recovered, sampled, and processed to further suppress the residual self-interference in the digital domain by using the recursive least-square (RLS) algorithm. An experiment is then performed. The proposed system is demonstrated by employing two independent channels. The analog cancellation depths of the 200, 500, and 800 Mbaud QPSK-modulated self-interferences are around 24, 20, and 20 dB, respectively; the total cancellation depths are around 29, 28, and 25 dB, respectively, when the analog cancellation and the RLS algorithm digital cancellation are applied. Meanwhile, the fiber distribution has no significant influence on SIC performance.
Accuracy of diffuse correlation spectroscopy measurements of cerebral blood flow when using a three-layer analytical model
Authors: Zhao Hongting , Sathialingam Eashani , Buckley Erin M.
Published: October 2021

Diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) is a non-invasive optical technology for the assessment of an index of cerebral blood flow (CBFi). Analytical methods that model the head as a three-layered medium (i.e., scalp, skull, brain) are becoming more commonly used to minimize the contribution of extracerebral layers to the measured DCS signal in adult cerebral blood flow studies. However, these models rely on a priori knowledge of layer optical properties and thicknesses. Errors in these values can lead to errors in the estimation of CBFi, although the magnitude of this influence has not been rigorously characterized. Herein, we investigate the accuracy of measuring cerebral blood flow with a three-layer model when errors in layer optical properties or thicknesses are present. Through a series of in silico experiments, we demonstrate that CBFi is highly sensitive to errors in brain optical properties and skull and scalp thicknesses. Relative changes in CBFi are less sensitive to optical properties but are influenced by errors in layer thickness. Thus, when using the three-layer model, accurate estimation of scalp and skull thickness are required for reliable results.
Remote focusing in a temporal focusing microscope
Authors: Durst Michael E. , Yurak Samuel , Moscatelli Joseph , Linhares Isabel , Vargas Ruben
Published: October 2021

In a temporal focusing microscope, dispersion can remotely shift the temporal focal plane axially, but only a single depth can be in focus at a time on a fixed camera. In this paper, we demonstrate remote focusing in a temporal focusing microscope. Dispersion tuning with an electrically tunable lens (ETL) in a 4f pulse shaper scans the excitation plane axially, and another ETL in the detection path keeps the shifted excitation plane in focus on the camera. Image stacks formed using two ETLs versus a traditional stage scan are equivalent.
Universally valid reduction of multiscale stochastic biochemical systems using simple non-elementary propensities
Authors: Song Yun Min , Hong Hyukpyo , Kim Jae Kyoung
Published: October 2021

Biochemical systems consist of numerous elementary reactions governed by the law of mass action. However, experimentally characterizing all the elementary reactions is nearly impossible. Thus, over a century, their deterministic models that typically contain rapid reversible bindings have been simplified with non-elementary reaction functions (e.g., Michaelis-Menten and Morrison equations). Although the non-elementary reaction functions are derived by applying the quasi-steady-state approximation (QSSA) to deterministic systems, they have also been widely used to derive propensities for stochastic simulations due to computational efficiency and simplicity. However, the validity condition for this heuristic approach has not been identified even for the reversible binding between molecules, such as protein-DNA, enzyme-substrate, and receptor-ligand, which is the basis for living cells. Here, we find that the non-elementary propensities based on the deterministic total QSSA can accurately capture the stochastic dynamics of the reversible binding in general. However, serious errors occur when reactant molecules with similar levels tightly bind, unlike deterministic systems. In that case, the non-elementary propensities distort the stochastic dynamics of a bistable switch in the cell cycle and an oscillator in the circadian clock. Accordingly, we derive alternative non-elementary propensities with the stochastic low-state QSSA, developed in this study. This provides a universally valid framework for simplifying multiscale stochastic biochemical systems with rapid reversible bindings, critical for efficient stochastic simulations of cell signaling and gene regulation. To facilitate the framework, we provide a user-friendly open-source computational package, ASSISTER, that automatically performs the present framework.
Health and economic benefits of achieving hepatitis C virus elimination in Pakistan: A modelling study and economic analysis
Authors: Lim Aaron G. , Scott Nick , Walker Josephine G. , Hamid Saeed , Hellard Margaret , Vickerman Peter
Published: October 2021

Background

Modelling suggests that achieving the WHO incidence target for hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination in Pakistan could cost US$3.87 billion over 2018 to 2030. However, the economic benefits from integrating services or improving productivity were not included.

Methods and findings

We adapt a HCV transmission model for Pakistan to estimate the impact, costs, and cost-effectiveness of achieving HCV elimination (reducing annual HCV incidence by 80% by 2030) with stand-alone service delivery, or partially integrating one-third of initial HCV testing into existing healthcare services. We estimate the net economic benefits by comparing the required investment in screening, treatment, and healthcare management to the economic productivity gains from reduced HCV-attributable absenteeism, presenteeism, and premature deaths. We also calculate the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) per disability-adjusted life year (DALY) averted for HCV elimination versus maintaining current levels of HCV treatment. This is compared to an opportunity cost-based willingness-to-pay threshold for Pakistan (US$148 to US$198/DALY).

Compared to existing levels of treatment, scaling up screening and treatment to achieve HCV elimination in Pakistan averts 5.57 (95% uncertainty interval (UI) 3.80 to 8.22) million DALYs and 333,000 (219,000 to 509,000) HCV-related deaths over 2018 to 2030. If HCV testing is partially integrated, this scale-up requires an investment of US$1.45 (1.32 to 1.60) billion but will result in US$1.30 (0.94 to 1.72) billion in improved economic productivity over 2018 to 2030. This elimination strategy is highly cost-effective (ICER = US$29 per DALY averted) by 2030, with it becoming cost-saving by 2031 and having a net economic benefit of US$9.10 (95% UI 6.54 to 11.99) billion by 2050. Limitations include uncertainty around what level of integration is possible within existing primary healthcare services as well as a lack of Pakistan-specific data on disease-related healthcare management costs or productivity losses due to HCV.

Conclusions

Investment in HCV elimination can bring about substantial societal health and economic benefits for Pakistan.
Parasitic helminth infections in humans modulate Trefoil Factor levels in a manner dependent on the species of parasite and age of the host
Authors: Adewale Babatunde , Heintz Jonathan R. , Pastore Christopher F. , Rossi Heather L. , Hung Li-Yin , Rahman Nurudeen , Bethony Jeff , Diemert David , Babatunde James Ayorinde , Herbert De’Broski R.
Published: October 2021

Helminth infections, including hookworms and Schistosomes, can cause severe disability and death. Infection management and control would benefit from identification of biomarkers for early detection and prognosis. While animal models suggest that Trefoil Factor Family proteins (TFF2 and TFF3) and interleukin-33 (IL-33) -driven type 2 immune responses are critical mediators of tissue repair and worm clearance in the context of hookworm infection, very little is known about how they are modulated in the context of human helminth infection. We measured TFF2, TFF3, and IL-33 levels in serum from patients in Brazil infected with Hookworm and/or Schistosomes, and compared them to endemic and non-endemic controls. TFF2 was specifically elevated by Hookworm infection in females, not Schistosoma or co-infection. This elevation was correlated with age, but not worm burden. TFF3 was elevated by Schistosoma infection and found to be generally higher in females. IL-33 was not significantly altered by infection. To determine if this might apply more broadly to other species or regions, we measured TFFs and cytokine levels (IFNγ, TNFα, IL-33, IL-13, IL-1β, IL-17A, IL-22, and IL-10) in both the serum and urine of Nigerian school children infected with S. haematobium. We found that serum levels of TFF2 and 3 were reduced by infection, likely in an age dependent manner. In the serum, only IL-10 and IL-13 were significantly increased, while in urine IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-13, IL-1β, IL-22, and IL-10 were significantly increased in by infection. Taken together, these data support a role for TFF proteins in human helminth infection.
Predicting psoriasis using routine laboratory tests with random forest
Authors: Zhou Jing , Li Yuzhen , Guo Xuan
Published: October 2021

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects approximately 125 million people worldwide. It has significant impacts on both physical and emotional health-related quality of life comparable to other major illnesses. Accurately prediction of psoriasis using biomarkers from routine laboratory tests has important practical values. Our goal is to derive a powerful predictive model for psoriasis disease based on only routine hospital tests. We collected a data set including 466 psoriasis patients and 520 healthy controls with 81 variables from only laboratory routine tests, such as age, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, albumin, and platelet distribution width. In this study, Boruta feature selection method was applied to select the most relevant features, with which a Random Forest model was constructed. The model was tested with 30 repetitions of 10-fold cross-validation. Our classification model yielded an average accuracy of 86.9%. 26 notable features were selected by Boruta, among which 15 features are confirmed from previous studies, and the rest are worth further investigations. The experimental results demonstrate that the machine learning approach has good potential in predictive modeling for the psoriasis disease given the information only from routine hospital tests.
Knockin mouse models demonstrate differential contributions of synaptotagmin-1 and -2 as receptors for botulinum neurotoxins
Authors: Thaker Hatim , Zhang Jie , Miyashita Shin-Ichiro , Cristofaro Vivian , Park SunHyun , Hashemi Gheinani Ali , Sullivan Maryrose P. , Adam Rosalyn M. , Dong Min
Published: October 2021

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most potent toxins known and are also utilized to treat a wide range of disorders including muscle spasm, overactive bladder, and pain. BoNTs’ ability to target neurons determines their specificity, potency, and therapeutic efficacy. Homologous synaptic vesicle membrane proteins synaptotagmin-1 (Syt1) and synaptotagmin-2 (Syt2) have been identified as receptors for BoNT family members including BoNT/B, DC, and G, but their contributions at physiologically relevant toxin concentrations in vivo have yet to be validated and established. Here we generated two knockin mutant mouse models containing three designed point-mutations that specifically disrupt BoNT binding in endogenous Syt1 or Syt2, respectively. Utilizing digit abduction score assay by injecting toxins into the leg muscle, we found that Syt1 mutant mice showed similar sensitivity as the wild type mice, whereas Syt2 mutant mice showed reduced sensitivity to BoNT/B, DC, and G, demonstrating that Syt2 is the dominant receptor at skeletal neuromuscular junctions. We further developed an in vivo bladder injection assay for analyzing BoNT action on bladder tissues and demonstrated that Syt1 is the dominant toxin receptor in autonomic nerves controlling bladder tissues. These findings establish the critical role of protein receptors for the potency and specificity of BoNTs in vivo and demonstrate the differential contributions of Syt1 and Syt2 in two sets of clinically relevant target tissues.