bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D multi‐resolution deep learning model for diagnosis of multiple pathological types on pulmonary nodules
Authors: Fu Yu , Xue Peng , Zhao Peng , Li Ning , Xu Zhuodong , Ji Huizhong , Zhang Zhili , Cui Wentao , Dong Enqing
Published: August 2021

To accurately diagnose multiple pathological types of pulmonary nodules based on lung computed tomography (CT) images, a multi‐resolution three‐dimensional (3D) multi‐classification deep learning model (Mr‐Mc) was proposed. The Mr‐Mc model was constructed by using our own constructed lung CT image dataset of pulmonary nodules with clinical pathological information (LCID‐CPI), which can accurately diagnose inflammation, squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and other benign diseases. In order to process nodules with different sizes, a multi‐resolution extraction method was proposed to extract 3D volume data with different resolutions from lung CT images. The Mr‐Mc was composed of three different resolution networks, each of which has input volume data of a specific resolution. Experiments showed that the constructed Mr‐Mc model can achieve an average accuracy of 0.81 on LCID‐CPI. Besides, the Mr‐Mc model can also achieve a high accuracy of 0.87 on the Lung Image Database Consortium and Image Database Resource Initiative dataset.
Systems Engineering Roles in Software Organizations Delivering Service Products
Authors: Bouyaud Mickael , White Brian E.
Published: August 2021

The software industry has been experiencing several transformations. Development teams now often autonomously deliver business capabilities to software service systems. The Unicorn Project, a best‐seller, tells how a retail company transformed into an Agile and DevOps organization. This paper uses a model from the systems engineering toolset to understand those organizational changes and proposes an evolution of the systems engineering discipline to increase the value provided by this type of organization.
System Test Approach for Complex Software Systems
Authors: Mirchandani Chandru
Published: August 2021

There is a need to develop a system approach to develop an adaptive model (Mirchandani 2010) by which the changes in the testing and upgrade or ‘problem‐fix’ processes for complex software are monitored in real‐time and incorporated in the development of reliability models for software systems. As system engineers it is our goal to develop, elegant designs that will implement the required capability, i.e., produce the intended result (IW2021 – BT), be both robust and efficient, and limit unintended consequences. Towards this goal, system engineers strive to minimize technical debt and maximize the relevance of the needed capabilities for successful implementation of the system. If one was to follow the classical system engineering process, the system must meet certain needs. If there was a need for the system, be it perceived or an actual problem, the system engineering process, which is constantly evolving, must be enhanced to meet the needs of the 21st century.

It is obvious that testing is necessary to validate that all the critical processes are functional and satisfy the system requirements allocated to software. However, there is a risk if the software is tested to a perceived operational environment based on theoretical workloads.
Effects of pharmacist interventions on heart failure outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Arunmanakul Poukwan , Kengkla Kirati , Chaiyasothi Thanaputt , Phrommintikul Arintaya , Ruengorn Chidchanok , Permsuwan Unchalee , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Page Robert L. , Munger Mark A. , Nathisuwan Surakit , Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn
Published: August 2021

Heart failure (HF) patients tend to have multiple comorbidities resulting in complex therapy regimens and medication adherence issues. Nevertheless, the evidence of pharmacists' contributions to improving clinical outcomes in HF is limited. To assess the impact of pharmacist intervention on all‐cause hospitalization, mortality, and quality of life (QoL) in HF) patients. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and CINAHL was performed up to April 30, 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating pharmacist interventions compared with usual care in adult HF patients were selected. Data were extracted independently by two authors. Random effects meta‐analysis models were used to pool treatment effects and confidence intervals (CIs). Twenty‐nine trials identified 6965 predominantly HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients. The average age was 72.0 years (interquartile range [IQR] 66.0‐76.0) and 48% were men (IQR 40.0%‐68.0%). The majority were New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional class (FC) II‐III with median left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 38.5% (IQR 34.5%‐49.5%). Pharmacist interventions were associated with a significant reduction of all‐cause mortality (risk ratio [RR] 0.72; 95% CI 0.58‐0.89; P = 0.003) and all‐cause hospitalizations (RR 0.87; 95% CI 0.77‐0.99; P = 0.041). A significant increase in the 36‐item Short form Health survey (SF‐36) on role physical (Mean deviation [MD], 8.5; 95% CI, 1.00 to 16.01, P = 0.026) and mental health (MD, 7.49; 95% CI, 3.88 to 11.10, P < 0.001) were observed. In addition, a significant improvement in Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire score was observed (MD ‐3.55; 95% CI ‐6.28 to −0.82; P = 0.01). Pharmacist interventions in patients with HF significantly reduced all‐cause mortality and hospitalizations and improved QoL. Integration of a pharmacist into a HF care team or care pathway should be strongly considered as an important element of a multidisciplinary team.
Impact of first and second shift tele‐critical care pharmacy services and virtual rounds on interventions at Atrium Health Lincoln
Authors: Griffiths Carrie L. , Kosmisky Desiree E. , Everhart Sonia S. , Marshall Karen S. , Knight Charlene P.
Published: August 2021

Background

In 2015, Atrium Health (AH) established second shift pharmacy services in the tele‐critical care (TCC) setting to optimize medication therapy and serve as a drug information resource to facilities across the health care system. TCC pharmacy services expanded to the first shift in July 2017. In September 2017, the first shift pharmacist began participating in virtual multidisciplinary rounds 1 day per week, which increased to 3 days per week in October 2019 at AH Lincoln, a community hospital with a 10‐bed intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

This was a nonrandomized retrospective cohort study of adult ICU patients at AH Lincoln across two different time periods. The primary outcome was the number and type of pharmacy interventions made on rounding day(s) vs nonrounding days and first vs second shifts. Data are reported using descriptive statistics.

Results

During time period 1, a total of 1174 patients were admitted to the ICU for a total of 2115 patient days, with an average length of stay (LOS) of 1.8 days (SD ± 1.8 days). During time period 2, a total of 812 patients were admitted to the ICU for a total of 1775 patient days with an average LOS of 2.2 days (SD ± 2.7 days). During time period 1, a total of 753 interventions (297 on first shift and 456 on second shift) were performed as compared to time period 2, which had 1276 interventions (816 on first shift and 460 on second shift). For both time periods, the most common intervention on the first shift was medication management (45%) vs glycemic control (36%) on the second shift.

Conclusions

The addition of TCC pharmacy services to AH Lincoln has resulted in a positive impact on medication management, with the largest impact demonstrated through virtual rounding by the first shift TCC pharmacist.
Impact analysis of virtual ambulatory transplant pharmacists during COVID‐19
Authors: Park Lindsay , Kim Ju Hee , Waldman Georgina , Marks Christin Rogers , Clark Jacqueline E.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, transplant centers were challenged to meet the demand for new telemedicine strategies. The ability of lung transplant providers (LTP) to conduct face‐to‐face clinic visits for high‐risk immunocompromised patients, such as lung transplant recipients (LTR), was limited. Through the implementation of comprehensive medication management visits, pharmacists were able to assist LTP in the transition to telemedicine.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of telephone encounters from cardiothoracic (CT) transplant pharmacists at our center from March to September 2020 was completed. LTR scheduled for clinic visits with LTP were called prior to the visit by CT transplant pharmacists who conducted medication list reviews, adherence assessments, and medication access assistance. Clinical recommendations were communicated directly to the LTP and documented in patient electronic medical records. The primary outcome was the number of pharmacist‐driven clinical interventions. Secondary endpoints included the clinical severity and value of service of each intervention, percentage of accepted recommendations, patient cost savings interventions, prevention of adverse events, and avoidance of inappropriate doses.

Results

From March to September 2020, the CT transplant pharmacists conducted 385 virtual visits on 157 LTR with a median of 20 minutes spent per visit. There were 891 total interventions made by CT transplant pharmacists, including 778 medication discrepancies identified. Over 60% of encounters demonstrated some form of medication error and over 55% of encounters exhibited value of pharmacy services.

Conclusion

Implementation of CT transplant pharmacist telehealth visits has potential for increased patient access to pharmacy care and improved accuracy of medication lists. When focusing on the severity of errors and value of services, most demonstrated a level of significance. Further investigation is needed to analyze the impact of this service on patient outcomes as well as cost‐effectiveness.
Sequential Therapy With Recombinant Human IGF-1 Followed by Risedronate Increases Spine Bone Mineral Density in Women With Anorexia Nervosa: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Haines Melanie Schorr , Kimball Allison , Meenaghan Erinne , Bachmann Katherine N , Santoso Kate , Eddy Kamryn T , Singhal Vibha , Ebrahimi Seda , Dechant Esther , Weigel Thomas , Ciotti Lori , Keane Robert J , Gleysteen Suzanne , Mickley Diane , Bredella Miriam A , Tan Can Ozan , Gupta Rajiv , Misra Madhusmita , Schoenfeld David , Klibanski Anne , Miller Karen K
Published: August 2021

Anorexia nervosa is complicated by low bone mineral density (BMD) and increased fracture risk associated with low bone formation and high bone resorption. The lumbar spine is most severely affected. Low bone formation is associated with relative insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) deficiency. Our objective was to determine whether bone anabolic therapy with recombinant human (rh) IGF-1 used off-label followed by antiresorptive therapy with risedronate would increase BMD more than risedronate or placebo in women with anorexia nervosa. We conducted a 12-month, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 90 ambulatory women with anorexia nervosa and low areal BMD (aBMD). Participants were randomized to three groups: 6 months of rhIGF-1 followed by 6 months of risedronate (“rhIGF-1/Risedronate”) (n = 33), 12 months of risedronate (“Risedronate”) (n = 33), or double placebo (“Placebo”) (n = 16). Outcome measures were lumbar spine (1° endpoint: postero-anterior [PA] spine), hip, and radius aBMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and vertebral, tibial, and radial volumetric BMD (vBMD) and estimated strength by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pCT) (for extremity measurements) and multi-detector computed tomography (for vertebral measurements). At baseline, mean age, body mass index (BMI), aBMD, and vBMD were similar among groups. At 12 months, mean PA lumbar spine aBMD was higher in the rhIGF-1/Risedronate (p = 0.03) group and trended toward being higher in the Risedronate group than Placebo. Mean lateral lumbar spine aBMD was higher, in the rhIGF-1/Risedronate than the Risedronate or Placebo groups (p < 0.05). Vertebral vBMD was higher, and estimated strength trended toward being higher, in the rhIGF-1/Risedronate than Placebo group (p < 0.05). Neither hip or radial aBMD or vBMD, nor radial or tibial estimated strength, differed among groups. rhIGF-1 was well tolerated. Therefore, sequential therapy with rhIGF-1 followed by risedronate increased lateral lumbar spine aBMD more than risedronate or placebo. Strategies that are anabolic and antiresorptive to bone may be effective at increasing BMD in women with anorexia nervosa. © 2021 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
The valuation effects of unit versus share‐only IPOs
Authors: Chen Mengxi
Published: August 2021

Units consist of shares and warrants. Some firms issue units in initial public offerings (IPOs) after which warrant holders can exercise warrants and purchase shares from the issuer. Why do firms choose to issue units instead of only shares? I answer this question based on Merton's investor recognition model. Firms lacking pre‐IPO publicity can benefit from an increase in investor recognition. I find that unit firms have less pre‐IPO publicity than share‐only firms. Separate trading between warrants and shares and eventual exercise of the warrants will increase the number of shareholders and therefore firm value.
Using participatory culture‐specific consultation to support the mental health needs of summer camp staff
Authors: Wright Brittany J. , Azmat Alia , Aggarwal Aashna , Radding Matthew , Sieplinga Joel , Case Amanda , Khalil Amani
Published: August 2021

Nearly 30% of all U.S. youth attend summer camp each year, making it one of the broadest reaching out‐of‐school‐time interventions in the country. Camp provides a space for seasonal employees, who are often emerging adults, to explore work values and identity, engage in mentoring and support opportunities, and stay connected to a community larger than themselves. However, research on camp experiences also suggests camp settings and expectations around emotional and physical care can cause counselors to experience burnout, compassion fatigue, and reduced job satisfaction. Using participatory culture‐specific consultation, the current study addressed a gap in the literature about systemic interventions to manage camp counselor mental health by designing, implementing, and evaluating a mental health consultation model at one of the largest YMCA summer camps in the country. Results suggest the intervention effectively addressed certain administrator and staff needs; results also suggest the model could be refined to more effectively respond to the particular contextual challenges of summer camps. Implications and recommendations for other summer camps are discussed.
Telehealth for genetic counseling: A systematic evidence review
Authors: Danylchuk Noelle R. , Cook Lola , Shane‐Carson Kate P. , Cacioppo Cara N. , Hardy Melanie W. , Nusbaum Rachel , Steelman Susan C. , Malinowski Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Telehealth options, such as telephone counseling or videoconferencing, for service delivery in genetic counseling are becoming more widely accepted. However, until now, there has not been a systematic review of the literature focused specifically on genetic counseling outcomes for telehealth. We performed a systematic evidence review to compare telehealth genetic counseling (THGC), including videoconferencing and telephone counseling, across specialties to in‐person genetic counseling (IPGC) for a range of outcomes specific to patient and provider experiences and access to care. Several biomedical databases were queried up to January 11, 2021, to identify original research evaluating THGC. Through this search, 42 articles met the inclusion criteria including 13 randomized controlled trials and 29 non‐randomized observational studies encompassing 13,901 patients. Most included studies focused only on cancer genetic counseling; however, adult, pediatric, and prenatal specialties were also represented. The majority of studies evaluated patient and/or access to care outcomes. Though most studies reported high patient satisfaction with THGC, as well as comparable rates of trust and rapport, confidence in privacy, health behavior changes, and psychosocial outcomes, few represented diverse populations. Data of provider experiences were limited and varied with more disadvantages noted compared with patient experiences, particularly in studies involving telephone genetic counseling. Studies consistently reported a decrease in the patients’ costs and time required for travel when patients are seen via THGC compared to IPGC with a similar reduction in costs to the health system. Overall, results from our evidence synthesis suggest THGC is non‐inferior or comparable to IPGC across many domains, even considering that many of the studies included in this review were conducted with telehealth systems, notably videoconferencing, that were less robust and reliable than what is available today. There are notable limitations within this body of literature, leading to potential uncertainty in the generalizability of our analysis. We outline several recommendations for future studies.
Morphological basis for maternal nutrient provision to embryos in the viviparous fish Ataeniobius toweri (Teleostei: Goodeidae)
Authors: Uribe Mari Carmen , Cerda‐Jardón Paola‐Ivonne , Blackburn Daniel G.
Published: August 2021

In viviparous Mexican fishes of the family Goodeidae, embryos develop in the maternal ovarian lumen. They typically absorb maternal nutrients during gestation by means of “trophotaeniae,” that is, specialized, elongated extensions of the hindgut that are exposed to the fluids, which occupy the ovarian lumen. The sole exception is Ataeniobius toweri, whose embryos lack trophotaeniae but are nevertheless matrotrophic. Thus, how its embryos obtain maternal nutrients is unclear. We studied a series of non‐pregnant and pregnant ovaries of A. toweri using histology to identify the mechanism of maternal–embryo nutrient transfer. By early‐gestation, embryos have depleted their yolk supplies. Yolks are released into the ovarian lumen and are ingested by the developing embryos, as shown by yolk material in their digestive tracts. The embryonic gut is lined by an epithelium consisting of columnar cells with apical microvilli, providing a means for nutrient absorption. Contrary to statements in the literature, embryos develop minuscule trophotaenial rudiments that extend slightly into the ovarian lumen. These structures are formed of an absorptive epithelium that overlies a vascular stroma, similar to the trophotaeniae of other goodeids. Through late gestation, vitellogenic follicles form and oocytes are discharged into the ovarian lumen, contributing to embryonic nutrition. Thus, histological evidence suggests that embryos chiefly obtain nutrients from ingestion of yolk and maternal secretions released into the ovarian lumen. This function possibly is supplemented by uptake via the small hindgut protrusions and other absorptive surfaces (e.g., the skin and the gill epithelium). Our observations are consistent with two evolutionary interpretations of the hindgut protrusions: (a) that they are rudimentary, evolutionary precursors of trophotaeniae formed by exteriorized hindgut; and (b) that they are vestigial remnants of trophotaeniae that were lost during a switch to a form of matrotrophy involving nutrient ingestion.
Corrosion inhibition of amino acids for 316L stainless steel and synergistic effect of I− ions: Experimental and theoretical studies
Authors: Zhao Rongxuan , Yu Qian , Niu Lin
Published: August 2021

The inhibition effect of amino acids l‐lysine (Lys) and l‐arginine (Arg), which serve as inhibition films for corrosion of 316L stainless steel in 0.5 M NaCl solution, is studied by electrochemical measurements. The adsorption of the inhibitor molecules on the steel surface is studied by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), accompanied by the characterization of the metal surface by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). All in all, Lys or Arg can obviously restrain the corrosion of 316L steel, while the inhibition efficiency is even higher with the assistance of I− ions. Arg always has better inhibition performance than Lys regardless of the addition of I− ions. FTIR and SERS confirm the adsorption of amino acids on the metal surface; at the same time, the morphology and protection effect of the inhibition films is clearly illustrated via SEM images. Thanks to all experimental measurements as mentioned above and theoretical calculations, a mechanism model is proposed to simulate the corrosion inhibition process of amino acids and the synergistic effect of I− ions on 316L steel.
Highly Efficient Binary Solvent Additive‐Processed Organic Solar Cells by the Blade‐Coating Method
Authors: Fo Wan‐Zhen , Xu Gui Ying , Dong Hao‐Jie , Liu Lin‐Na , Li Yao Wen , Ding Lei
Published: August 2021

Blade‐coating, a prototype tool for slot‐die coating is a promising technique showing high compatibility with large‐area roll‐to‐roll coating. Here, a high‐performance PM6:Y6‐based device is fabricated with chlorobenzene (CB) through a novel binary solvent additive (1‐chloronaphthalene (CN):diphenyl ether (DPE)). It can be found that the binary solvent additive can improve the crystallinity of the acceptor and forms a better phase separation domain, which would promote the effective separation of charge and inhibit charge recombination. As a result, high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.77% can be achieved with the spin‐coating method, which is similar to the best organic solar cells (OSCs) processed with chloroform (CF) solution. Moreover, a blade‐coated OSC is also processed with CB and demonstrates a promising PCE of 11.69% with large‐area device (1.2 cm2). These results are critical for the large‐scale production of highly efficient OSCs.
Shape Memory Polyurethane as a Drilling Fluid Lost Circulation Material
Authors: Lashkari Reza , Tabatabaei‐Nezhad Seyyed Alireza , Husein Maen M.
Published: August 2021

Drilling fluid loss is a major problem with serious economic and environmental consequences. The use of traditional lost circulation materials (LCMs) to seal wide fractures increases the risk of bit nozzle plugging. In this work, smart LCMs based on shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) are proposed for the first time. SMPU can be programmed to recover at temperatures suited to a given well. As such, SMPU smoothly passes through the bit nozzles, while effectively seal wide fractures once activated. The SMPU is prepared by two step pre‐polymerization and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectra, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimeter. The SMPU is programmed by changing and fixing the original shape to a temporary shape through a thermo‐mechanical process. The shape memory behavior of SMPU is analyzed by tensile apparatus. Compatibility of SMPU with WBMs is determined from mud rheology and filtration tests. Fracture sealing efficiency and shape recovery of SMPU are evaluated by a modified particle permeability apparatus fitted with a model fracture. The results confirm high sealing and shape recovery attributes of SMPU. The plug formed at 114 kg m–3SMPU and 80 °C experiences a sealing pressure of 100 bar with 71.5 cm3cumulative fluid loss.
A Highly Controlled Organic–Inorganic Encapsulation Nanocomposite with Versatile Features toward Wearable Device Applications
Authors: Tang Ruijie , Yao Xiaoxue , Chen Jingyi , Sridar Sreepathy , He Xianglei , Pu Yuan , Wang Jie‐Xin , Wang Dan , Wang Steven
Published: August 2021

Ultraviolet‐curable polyurethane acrylate (PUA) materials can be used in a number of important applications spanning from microfluidics, surface patterning to wearable technology. For the first time, the potential of encapsulation of modified zirconia (ZrO2) nanoparticles is reported in PUA‐based hybrid films aimed to facilitate profoundly enhanced hardness and refractive index. By successfully manipulating the interfacial reaction conditions between ZrO2nanoparticles and PUA film, the PUA‐based nanocomposites exhibit an ultrahigh hardness of 9 and superior refractive index of 1.64 (589.3 nm). The outcomes obtained pave the way for seamless application of nanozirconia/PUA as a potent encapsulating material that provides structurally morphable, water resistant, and optically transparent light emitting diodes toward wearables devices in healthcare.
An analysis of food culture and technology acceptance for youth: Using a choice experiment and a latent class model
Authors: You Jae Eun , Choi Jong Woo
Published: August 2021

The difference in the degree to which consumers accept a new culture depends on a variety of factors that affect each consumer. In order to grasp the acceptance of new food, it is necessary to consider both internal and external influence factors on food acceptance. The experiment was carried out three times with imported potato chips and domestic potato chips that can be easily accessed. Then, we investigated marketing strategies by using the “choice experiment” analysis methodology to identify snack preference.
ED screening reveals most teens had suicidal thoughts during pandemic
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2021

Observing the need to understand the vital role of screening for mental health concerns in youth, especially given the rising rates of depression and suicidal thoughts many have faced during the pandemic, emergency department and clinical staff leadership of a Wilmington, Delaware, hospital have identified populations at risk through the use of a new screening protocol.
NAMI, The Steve Fund partner on improving MH of Black families
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: August 2021

Reducing the stigma around mental health in communities of color by leading a national dialogue on the importance of promoting mental health and emotional well‐being and treating mental illness is one of the key goals announced last month by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and The Steve Fund — a go‐to resource dedicated to the mental health and emotional well‐being of students of color.
Computational NMR of charged systems
Authors: Krivdin Leonid B.
Published: August 2021

This review covers NMR computational aspects of charged systems—carbocations, heterocations, and heteroanions, which were extensively studied in a number of laboratories worldwide, first of all, at the Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute in California directed for several decades by a distinguished scientist, the Nobel laureate George Andrew Olah. The first part of the review briefly outlines computational background of the modern theoretical methods applied to the calculation of chemical shifts and spin–spin coupling constants at the DFT and the non‐empirical levels. The second part of the review deals with the historical results, advances, and perspectives of the computational NMR of classical carbocations like methyl cation, CH3+, and protonated methane, CH5+, together with their numerous homologs and derivatives. The third and the forth parts of this survey are focused on the NMR computational aspects of accordingly, heterocations and heteroanions, the organic and inorganic ions with a charge localized mainly on heteroatoms like boron, oxygen, nitrogen, and heavier elements.
Monomer Transport in Emulsion Polymerization II: Copolymerization
Authors: Schork F. Joseph
Published: August 2021

The method for evaluating the Damkohler number for monomer transport during emulsion homopolymerization is extended to copolymerization. It is shown that monomers that are not monomer‐transport limited during homopolymerization may become more so during binary copolymerization, and monomers that are monomer‐transport limited during homopolymerization may become less so during binary copolymerization.
Body‐loop related MRI radiofrequency‐induced heating hazards: Observations, characterizations, and recommendations
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Zheng Jianfeng , Wang Yu , Long Stuart A. , Kainz Wolfgang , Chen Ji
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To assess RF‐induced heating hazards in 1.5T MR systems caused by body‐loop postures.

Methods

Twelve advanced high‐resolution anatomically correct human body models with different body‐loop postures are created based on poseable human adult male models. Numerical simulations are performed to assess the radiofrequency (RF)‐induced heating of these 12 models at 11 landmarks. A customized phantom is developed to validate the numerical simulations and quantitatively analyze factors affecting the RF‐induced heating, eg, the contact area, the loop size, and the loading position. The RF‐induced heating inside three differently posed phantoms is measured.

Results

The RF‐induced heating from the body‐loop postures can be up to 11 times higher than that from the original posture. The RF‐induced heating increases with increasing body‐loop size and decreasing contact area. The magnetic flux increases when the body‐loop center and the RF coil isocenter are close to each other, leading to increased RF‐induced heating. An air gap created in the body loop or generating a polarized magnetic field parallel to the body loop can reduce the heating by a factor of three at least. Experimental measurements are provided, validating the correctness of the numerical results.

Conclusion

Safe patient posture during MR examinations is recommended with the use of insulation materials to prevent loop formation and consequently avoiding high RF‐induced heating. If body loops cannot be avoided, the body loop should be placed outside the RF transmitting coil. In addition, linear polarization with magnetic fields parallel to the body loop can be used to circumvent high RF‐induced heating.
Liquid Biopsy and Radiological Response Predict Outcomes Following Discontinuation of Targeted Therapy in Patients with BRAF Mutated Melanoma
Authors: Di Guardo Lorenza , Randon Giovanni , Corti Francesca , Vallacchi Viviana , Raimondi Alessandra , Fucà Giovanni , Bini Marta , Maurichi Andrea , Patuzzo Roberto , Gallino Gianfrancesco , Mattavelli Ilaria , Ruggeri Roberta , Angi Martina , Cossa Mara , Valeri Barbara , Cimminiello Carolina , Santinami Mario , Rivoltini Licia , Braud Filippo , Rodolfo Monica , Vecchio Michele Del
Published: August 2021

Background

Outcomes of patients with metastatic melanoma discontinuing BRAF-targeted therapy for cumulative toxicity after sustained response are unknown.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective case series analysis conducted at a single Cancer Center in Italy included patients with BRAF mutated metastatic melanoma treated with a BRAF inhibitor as a single agent or in combination with a MEK inhibitor between June 1, 2011 and January 1, 2020 and interrupted treatment due to cumulative toxicity after achieving complete response (CR) or long-lasting partial response (PR; i.e. >12 months).

Results

We included 24 patients with a median treatment duration of 59.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 55.4–63.4; range, 12–88). CR and PR were achieved in 71% and 29% of patients, respectively. At a median follow-up after treatment discontinuation of 37.8 months (95% CI, 33.7–41.9), the 12-month progression-free survival after discontinuation (dPFS) rate was 70.8% (95% CI 54.8–91.6) and 24-month dPFS rate was 58.3% (95% CI, 41.6–81.8). Baseline patient and tumor characteristics as well as treatment duration and best response did not significantly impact on dPFS. Patients with CR and negative circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) at time of discontinuation had a significantly improved dPFS compared with patients with either radiological residual disease or ctDNA positivity (p = .007). No patient in CR with undetectable ctDNA experienced progression.

Conclusion

The risk of progression is high even in patients with sustained sensitivity to BRAF/MEK inhibitors. Integration of liquid biopsy in clinical trials investigating the optimal management of patients with sustained sensitivity to BRAF/MEK inhibitors is warranted.

Implications for Practice

Outcomes of patients with metastatic melanoma discontinuing BRAF-targeted therapy for cumulative toxicity are unknown. This study analyzed patients with sustained responses (median treatment duration 59.4 months). Twelve- and 24-month progression-free survival following discontinuation were 70.8% and 58.3%, respectively. Complete response and negative circulating tumor DNA at time of discontinuation are promising prognostic biomarkers in this setting.
Next-Generation Sequencing in the Diagnosis of Metastatic Lesions: Reclassification of a Glioblastoma as an Endometrial Cancer Metastasis to the Brain
Authors: Leung Shuk On Annie , Foley Olivia , Chapel David , Da Silva Annacarolina , Nucci Marisa , Muto Michael G. , Campos Susana
Published: August 2021

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S., but metastasis to the brain is rare, and diagnosis can be challenging. Traditional tools for determining if a tumor is a primary or metastatic lesion include pan-imaging, histopathologic studies, and immunohistochemistry. Molecular testing with next-generation sequencing has been increasingly used to augment these tests. We present a case of a patient who initially presented with a brain lesion diagnosed as glioblastoma on histology and immunohistochemistry, but whose diagnosis was later changed to metastasis from an endometrial primary based on molecular findings. The two tumors shared a common microsatellite instability signature and 51 DNA variants, including oncogenic driver mutations KRAS p.G13D, PIK3CA p.E545A, and PTEN p.I135V and p.K267Rfs*9. This highlights the power of molecular analysis in making the diagnosis in cases of rare metastases.

Key Points

Brain metastasis from endometrial primary is rare, and histopathological features may be augmented with molecular analysis to aid in diagnosis. Comparison of the molecular makeup of the primary endometrial lesion with the metastatic lesion may reveal high-risk molecular features that may be indicative of metastatic potential.
Escape from COVID‐19 pandemic to safe haven
Authors: Yildirim Hakan , Boyaci Yildirim Merve , Limoncuoğlu Alihan
Published: August 2021

Gold, which is accepted as a safe haven by households, is known as an investment tool that is preferred especially in times of crisis and uncertainty. Especially in recent days, the uncertainty caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic and the visible increase in Turkey's 5‐year CDS data has led investors in Turkey to grams of gold, which is considered a safe haven. In this context, this study aims to test the long‐term relationship between daily case‐related deaths and Turkey's 5‐year CDS data with gram gold prices in Turkish lira during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The long‐term relationship between the variables was tested with the autoregressive distributed lag bound test (ARDL bound test) applied to the daily data for the period March 17, 2020–April 11, 2020. For the application of ARDL bound test, the stationarity of the variables was tested with unit root tests such as augmented Dickey–Fuller test (ADF) and Phillips–Perron (PP). According to the ARDL bound test findings, there is a statistically significant and positive relationship between the number of case‐related deaths and the gram gold prices in Turkish lira in the long run. However, it has been found that Turkey's 5‐year CDS data does not have a significant long‐term relationship with gram gold prices in Turkish lira.
Invasive fungal disease in children with acute myeloid leukaemia: An Australian multicentre 10‐year review
Authors: Yeoh Daniel K. , Moore Andrew S. , Kotecha Rishi S. , Bartlett Adam W. , Ryan Anne L. , Cann Megan P. , McMullan Brendan J. , Thursky Karin , Slavin Monica , Blyth Christopher C. , Haeusler Gabrielle M. , Clark Julia E.
Published: August 2021

Background

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a common and important complication in children with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). We describe the epidemiology of IFD in a large multicentre cohort of children with AML.

Methods

As part of the retrospective multicentre cohort TERIFIC (The Epidemiology and Risk factors for Invasive Fungal Infections in immunocompromised Children) study, proven/probable/possible IFD episodes occurring in children with primary or relapsed/refractory AML from 2003 to 2014 were analysed. Crude IFD prevalence, clinical characteristics, microbiology and treatment were assessed. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was used to estimate 6‐month survival.

Results

There were 66 IFD episodes diagnosed in 63 children with AML. The majority (75.8%) of episodes occurred in the context of primary AML therapy. During primary AML therapy, the overall prevalence was 20.7% (95% CI 15.7%–26.5%) for proven/probable/possible IFD and 10.3% (95% CI 6.7%–15.0%) for proven/probable IFD. Of primary AML patients, 8.2% had IFD diagnosed during the first cycle of chemotherapy. Amongst pathogens implicated in proven/probable IFD episodes, 74.4% were moulds, over a third (37.9%) of which were non‐Aspergillus spp. Antifungal prophylaxis preceded 89.4% of IFD episodes, most commonly using fluconazole (50% of IFD episodes). All‐cause mortality at 6 months from IFD diagnosis was 16.7% with IFD‐related mortality of 7.6% (all in cases of proven IFD).

Conclusions

IFD is a common and serious complication during paediatric AML therapy. Mould infections, including non‐Aspergillus spp. predominated in this cohort. A systematic approach to the identification of patients at risk, and a targeted prevention strategy for IFD is needed.
The association of lung function changes with outcomes in children with bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Jung Sungsu , Yoon Hee Mang , Yoon Jisun , Park Minjee , Rhee Eun Sang , Kim Hyery , Koh Kyung Nam , Lee Jin Seong , Im Ho Joon , Yu Jinho
Published: August 2021

Background

Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) is a life‐threatening respiratory complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Although pulmonary function testing is crucial for monitoring BOS, little information exists on the association of these test results with outcomes in children with BOS.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine the correlation between changes in lung function after BOS diagnosis and long‐term outcomes.

Methods

A total of 428 children underwent allogeneic HSCT from January 2006 to December 2017 at Asan Medical Center. Twenty‐three (5.4%) were diagnosed with BOS after allogeneic HSCT, and their clinical data were reviewed. Twenty‐one subjects underwent regular pulmonary function testing for 24 months after BOS diagnosis.

Results

Among the 21 children with BOS, 8 died, 5 underwent lung transplantation (TPL), and 15 required oxygen (O2) therapy. The FEV1% predicted (pred), FVC% pred, and FEF25%–75% pred were 37.8 ± 12.7% (mean ± SD), 62.2 ± 16.2%, and 16.4 ± 9.6%, respectively, at the time of BOS diagnosis. Changes in the FEV1% pred were greater in the death and lung TPL groups (−24.8 ± 22.3%) than in the survival without lung TPL group (5.7 ± 21.8%) and greater in the O2 therapy (−19.4 ± 23.4%) group than in the group without O2 therapy (14.2 ± 20.0%) during the first 3 months after BOS diagnosis.

Conclusion

The change in FEV1 during the first 3 months after BOS diagnosis correlated with outcomes including survival, lung TPL, and O2 therapy. These results suggest that more active intervention in the first 3 months after BOS diagnosis may be needed to improve prognosis.
Synthesis and Characterization of Azido Esters as Green Energetic Plasticizers
Authors: Nešić Jovica , Cvijetić Ilija N. , Bogdanov Jovica , Marinković Aleksandar
Published: August 2021

Three azido‐esters based green energetic plasticizers were synthesized from their chlorides including DEGBAA (diethyleneglycol bis(azidoacetate)), DPGBAA (dipropyleneglycol bis(azidoacetate)) and HETTAA (hexanetriol tris(azidoacetate)). The syntheses were carried out in a two‐step process: the first step was esterification of glycol or triol using chloroacetyl chloride, and the second step was substitution of chloracetate with sodium azide that yields corresponding azido derivatives. The parameters of synthesis such as molar ratio of hydroxyl and acyl groups, and amount and type of solvent (dimethyl sulfoxide and dimethyl formamide) were optimized to achieve maximal conversion and purity of the products. The obtained products were characterized by elemental analysis, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and infrared vibrational spectroscopy (IR). Thermal and rheological properties were determined using DSC and Modular Compact Rheometer. Condensed phase heat of formation and several properties important for high‐energy materials were predicted from quantum chemical calculations using CBS‐4M method. Detonation and combustion performance of energetic compounds were calculated with the thermochemical computer code EXPLO5V06.05. using the predicted heats of formation and experimentally determined densities as input. The energetic and physical properties of the synthesized compounds were compared to the literature data for common plasticizers.
Continuously Controllable Charge–Spin Conversion by Electric Fields in FeNi/Pt/Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–Pb0.7Ti0.3O3 Heterostructures
Authors: Liu Fufu , Zhou Cai , Tang Rujun , Chai Guozhi , Jiang Changjun
Published: August 2021

Electric‐field modulation of magnetism is a prerequisite for efficient and low‐power spintronic devices. In this work, it is demonstrated that the charge–spin conversion efficiency, ξ, is continuously controllable and can be magnified by applying a large electric field. It is further found that ξ is related to the piezostrain, which has a butterfly‐like variation with the electric field E. The butterfly‐like behavior of ξ can be explained by the fact that the spin current density can be tuned by piezostrain. The possibility of modulating spin–orbit torques at room temperature opens a route to integrating electric‐field‐induced piezostrain and current‐induced magnetization switching for next‐generation spintronic devices.
Optoelectronics of Color Centers in Diamond and Silicon Carbide: From Single‐Photon Luminescence to Electrically Controlled Spin Qubits
Authors: Fedyanin Dmitry Yu.
Published: August 2021

Color centers in diamond, silicon carbide, and related materials have recently emerged as one of the most promising platforms for quantum technology applications. These optically active point defects in the crystal lattice demonstrate outstanding optical and spin properties at room and even higher temperatures, which can hardly be achieved using other quantum systems. For a long time, the host material was considered only as a mechanical carrier of color centers, and the fact that it is a semiconductor and, therefore, can contain high densities of electrons and holes, was ignored. However, recent studies have demonstrated that color centers can exchange electrons and holes with the valence or conduction bands of the host material, which enables novel functionalities, ranging from ultrabright electrically driven single‐photon sources to protected quantum memories. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding this interaction.
Nanotube‐Based 1D Heterostructures Coupled by van der Waals Forces
Authors: Cambré Sofie , Liu Ming , Levshov Dmitry , Otsuka Keigo , Maruyama Shigeo , Xiang Rong
Published: August 2021

1D van der Waals heterostructures based on carbon nanotube templates are raising a lot of excitement due to the possibility of creating new optical and electronic properties, by either confining molecules inside their hollow core or by adding layers on the outside of the nanotube. In contrast to their 2D analogs, where the number of layers, atomic type and relative orientation of the constituting layers are the main parameters defining physical properties, 1D heterostructures provide an additional degree of freedom, i.e., their specific diameter and chiral structure, for engineering their characteristics. The current state‐of‐the‐art in synthesizing 1D heterostructures are discussed here, in particular focusing on their resulting optical properties, and details the vast parameter space that can be used to design heterostructures with custom‐built properties that can be integrated into a large variety of applications. First, the effects of van der Waals coupling on the properties of the simplest and best‐studied 1D heterostructure, namely a double‐walled carbon nanotube, are described, and then heterostructures built from the inside and the outside are considered, which all use a nanotube as a template, and, finally, an outlook is provided for the future of this research field.
Wölbsteifen und ihr Potenzial zur Versteifung biegedrillknickgefährdeter I‐Träger – eine Fallstudie
Authors: Weimar Carolin , Händler Pascal , Lange Jörg
Published: August 2021

Wölbsteifen bieten die Möglichkeit, auf Torsion belastete drillweiche I‐Träger durch die sogenannte Drillkopplung zu versteifen. In der Praxis ist das Biegedrillknicken, ein komplexes Stabilitätsversagen, besonders bei schlanken I‐Trägern häufig maßgebend für deren Bemessung. Die Wölbversteifung von I‐Trägern gegen Torsion hat auch auf den Biegedrillknickwiderstand einen positiven Einfluss. So können in den Trägerverlauf eingeschweißte Wölbsteifen das System derart versteifen, dass auf die Wahl größerer Trägerprofile verzichtet werden kann. Ausgehend von Wölbsteifen in Form von U‐Profilen kann deren Geometrie hinsichtlich Materialeinsparungen noch optimiert werden, ohne dass das Gesamtsystem signifikante Steifigkeitsverluste gegenüber den vollen U‐Profilen erfährt. In dieser Hinsicht stellt die additive Fertigung eine Alternative zur konventionellen Herstellung von Wölbsteifen dar. Der vorliegende Beitrag zeigt neben einem Überblick über Wölbsteifen anhand einer Fallstudie, inwiefern das ideelle Biegedrillknickmoment eines drillweichen Einfeld‐I‐Trägers durch Wölbsteifen erhöht werden kann. Betrachtet wird außerdem die Optimierung der Wölbsteifengeometrie und deren Auswirkung auf die Stabilität des Trägers.
Using value of information in quantitative set‐based design
Authors: Shallcross Nicholas J. , Parnell Gregory S. , Pohl Ed , Goerger Simon R.
Published: August 2021

Increasing system complexity requires that engineers, systems analysts, and program managers use comprehensive design methodologies to deliver affordable and resilient designs. One method is set‐based design (SBD), a product development and managerial process distinctly suited for developing complex systems under uncertainty. SBD simultaneously develops, analyzes, and matures numerous potential design sets, enabling the identification of high‐value, affordable, and resilient designs. Published SBD research is a rich source of both qualitative and quantitative methods. This research specifically focuses on quantitative SBD methods to apply a value of information (VOI) methodology enabling design convergence and selection. We build upon previous SBD research to enable design maturation and uncertainty reduction. Our methodology integrates design maturation and multiobjective VOI analysis into a comprehensive quantitative SBD process to guide system development from initial design concepts to the pre‐production design decision. In doing so, we also provide refinements and process improvements to existing quantitative SBD methods. We demonstrate our methodology with a model‐based UAV design case study using an integrated suite of system, value, and cost models. Our case study specifically focuses on the design maturation and model selection decisions enabling design space convergence. We compare our current results with those from a previous UAV case study, achieving a 41% reduction in required computation time for design space convergence. These results highlight the methodology's ability to reduce program risk and potential to improve SBD convergence efficiency.