bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Relationship between Fe Mineralization and Magnetic Basement Faults using Multifractal Modeling in the Esfordi and Behabad Areas (BMD), Central Iran
Authors: NABILOU Masoumeh , AFZAL Peyman , ARIAN Mehran , ADIB Ahmad , KHEYROLLAHI Hassan , FOUDAZI Mohammad , ANSARIRAD Parviz
Published: June 2021

Multifractal modeling is a mathematical method for the separation of a high potential mineralized background from a non‐mineralized background. The Concentration‐Distance to Fault structures (C‐DF) fractal model and the distribution of the known iron (Fe) deposits/mines seen in the Esfordi and Behabad 1:100,000 sheets from the Bafq region of central Iran are used to distinguish Fe mineralization based on their distance to magnetic basement structures and surface faults, separately, using airborne geophysical data and field surveys. Application of the C‐DF fractal model for the classification of Fe mineralizations in the Esfordi and Behabad areas reveals that the main ones show a correlation with their distance from magnetic basement structures. Accordingly, the distances of Fe mineralizations with grades of Fe higher than 55% (43% < Fe ≤ 60%) are located at a distance of less than 1 km, whereas for surfacial faults with grades of 43% ≤ Fe ≤ 60%, the distances are 3162< DF ≤ 4365 m from the faults. Thus, there is a positive relationship between Fe mineralization and magnetic basement structures. Also, the proximity evidence of Precambrian high‐grade Fe mineralization related to magnetic basement structures indicates syn‐rifting tectonic events. Finally, this C‐DF fractal model can be used for exploration of magmatic and hydrothermal ore deposits.
Biostratigraphy and Sequence Stratigraphy of the Tarbur Formation (Maastrichtian) from Iranian Zagros Foreland Basin, Southwest of Iran
Authors: GHANBARLOO Hossein , SAFARI Amrollah , VAZIRI‐MOGHADDAM Hossein
Published: June 2021

Shallow carbonate deposits (Tarbur Formation) were formed in the Zagros foreland basin with dynamic tectonics during the Maastrichtian age. From the viewpoint of reconstruction of depositional conditions in these deposits, studies of biostratigraphy, microfacies, microtaphofacies, and sequence stratigraphy were performed in a single area at Tang‐e Shabi Khoon, northwest of Zagros. Based on the identification of two assemblage zones consisting of benthic foraminifera in these strata, the formation was deposited during the middle to late Maastrichtian. The number of cycles in test size and type of coiling in Loftusia decreased from the study area toward the northwest of the Neotethys basin. The input of clastic sediments affected the distribution of Loftusia and rudists in the study area. Nine microfacies, six microtaphofacies, and one terrigenous facies (shale) were identified based on the sedimentary features. These deposits of the middle‐late Maastrichtian were deposited on a homoclinal carbonate ramp. The platform can be divided into restricted and semi‐restricted lagoon, shoal, and open marine environments. In the study area, the deposits of the Tarbur Formation were deposited during four third‐order depositional sequences. Local fault activities affected the formation of depositional sequences in the study area.
The 2014 Northern Thailand Mw 6.1 Earthquake and its Seismogenic Tectonics
Authors: CHANG Zufeng , DONG Pin‐liang , YUAN Renmao , HOU Jianjun , HE Zhongtai , LI Jianlin , CHANG Hao
Published: June 2021

On May 5, 2014, an earthquake with a magnitude of Mw 6.1 (the largest earthquake in Thailand so far) occurred in Chiang Rai of the Golden Triangle area in northern Thailand. We had an opportunity to conduct field survey immediately after the earthquake. Serious damage to buildings and casualties of lives were observed, and the estimated Maximum Mercalli Intensity (MMI) of the earthquake is VIII (evaluated according to the MMI scale of the Chinese Standard). No long continuous ground ruptures were produced during the earthquake, but in the epicenter (commonly within MMI VIII extent), massive small linear ruptures (usually several tens of meters long) developed and displayed intriguing structural features, offsetting many roads several centimeters left laterally on NE trending cracks or offsetting right laterally on NW trending ones. The focal mechanism solution of earthquake shows that this is a pure strike‐slip event, and two nodal planes in NW and NE directions had the same motion senses respectively as those of breakage associated with the earthquake. The long axis of the isoseismals and aftershock distributions are in NE direction, which is consistent with the strike of Luang Namtha fault. The 230‐km‐long Luang Namtha fault which starts from the border of China and Laos, runs through northern Laos, and terminates at Chiang Rai of Thailand is predominated by left‐lateral strike‐slip and active in late Quaternary, and two earthquakes over Ms 6.0 occurred along the fault in 1925 and 2007 respectively. This Mw 6.1 earthquake occurred at the southwestern end of the fault. All related features such as evident structural rupturing, elongated orientation of MMI and aftershock distribution, as well as the location of the epicenter, suggest that the Luang Namtha fault may be responsible for the 2014 Northern Thailand earthquake.
Petrogenesis of an Early Cretaceous Xiabie Co I‐type Granite in Southern Qiangtang, Tibet: Evidence from Geochemistry, Geochronology, Rb‐Sr, Sm‐Nd, Lu‐Hf and Pb isotopes
Authors: LIU Hong , LI Youguo , LI Wenchang , LI Guangming , HUANG Hanxiao , MA Dongfang , HUANG Yong , ZHOU Qing , FU Jiangang
Published: June 2021

Cretaceous magmatism is widely distributed on both sides of the Bangong–Nujiang suture zone (BNSZ). These rocks record the subduction to closure history of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethys Ocean (BNO) and the collisional history between the Lhasa (LS) and Qiangtang (QT) terranes. The Xiabie Co granite in Nyima County, which located on the southern margin of the QT terrane, Tibet. In this study, whole‐rock geochemistry; Rb‐Sr, Sm‐Nd, and Pb isotopes; and laser ablation inductively coupled mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) zircon U‐Pb ages and Lu‐Hf isotopes of the Xiabie Co granite in the Nyima area have been studied to constrain its petrogenesis and tectonic setting. Our study can help explain the tectonic evolution of the BNSZ and crust‐mantle interaction. Zircon U‐Pb dating indicates that the granite was emplaced at ca. 120 Ma. The granite contains a small amount of hornblende and has high silicon (SiO2 = 73.97–78.03 wt%), potassium (K2O = 4.75–6.53 wt%), and total alkali (K2O + Na2O = 7.98–8.98 wt%) contents; low calcium content (CaO = 2.33–4.11 wt%); and variable A/CNK (1.00–1.18) and A/NK (1.09–1.22) values. The P2O5 content of the granite negatively correlated with the SiO2 content. Thus, the Xiabie Co granite is a weakly peraluminous I‐type granite belonging to the high‐K calc‐alkaline to Shoshone series. It is enriched in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and relatively depleted in heavy rare earth elements (HREEs), with LREE/HREE ratios of 8.03–16.40 and LaN/YbN ratios of 10.2–27.1. Samples show right‐leaning chondrite‐normalized rare earth element patterns with pronounced negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu∗ = 0.67–0.76). The primitive‐mantle‐normalized trace element spider diagrams of the samples are right‐leaning zigzag curves, showing relative enrichment in large‐ion lithophile elements (LILEs, e.g., Rb, Th, U, and K) and depletion in high‐field‐strength elements (HFSEs, e.g., Nb, P, Ti, and Yb) and displaying striking Sr and Ba negative anomalies. The granite εHf(t) values were positive (2.9–9.9), whereas the whole‐rock εNd(t) values were negative (–2.841 to –2.33). The calculated (87Sr/86Sr)t, (206Pb/204Pb)t, (207Pb/204Pb)t, and (208Pb/204Pb)t values are 0.7014–0.7057 (0.7044 on average), 18.422–18.851 (18.670 on average), 15.625–15.642 (15.633 on average), and 38.332–38.681 (39.571 on average), respectively. On the basis of the aforementioned data, we propose that the Xiabie Co granite was derived from a primitive magma that originated from partial melting of juvenile lower crust with the addition of mantle materials. In addition, strong fractional crystallization occurred during the rock‐forming process. Given the geodynamic setting, our new data, together with previously reported achievements, imply that the Xiabie Co granite was formed during the LS–QT collision.
Invalidation in fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis and its effect on quality of life in Indian patients
Authors: Singh Gurmeet , Hamid Abdul
Published: June 2021

Aim

Fibromyalgia (FM) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients face invalidation in the form of “discounting” and “lack of understanding”. Invalidation can have effects on the quality of life (QoL) in these patients. We planned this study to look for invalidation in FM and RA Indian patients and see the correlation between invalidation and QoL.

Methods

Invalidation was measured by the Illness Invalidation Inventory (3*I) to look for “discounting” and “lack of understanding” across sources, that is, spouse, family, medical professionals, work environment. QoL was measured using the World Health Organization QoL‐BREF (WHOQoL). It covers mental, physical, psychological, and environmental domains.

Results

Fifty‐five FM and 102 RA patients were included in the study. Compared to RA, FM patients had significantly higher discounting by spouse, family and medical professionals (P < .001). FM patients suffered more lack of understanding from spouse and medical professionals as compared to RA patients (P < .001). In RA patients discounting by spouse had weak to moderate negative correlation with psychological, social and environmental domains of WHOQoL (r −.26 to −.48). Lack of understanding by spouse had moderate negative correlation with all the domains of WHOQoL (r −.30 to −.40) and a weak correlation with disease duration (r .23) in RA. In FM discounting by spouse and medical professionals had weak to moderate negative correlation with the physical health domain of WHOQoL (r −.26 to −.30).

Conclusion

FM patients faced more invalidation as compared to RA patients. Invalidation from spouse leads to poor QoL in RA and FM patients.
Phagocytosis checkpoints on hematopoietic stem cells in patients with myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Dong Xifeng , Han Yu , Liu Yumei , Yang Liyan , Niu Haiyue , Yan Li , Liu Chunyan , Shao Zonghong , Xing Limin , Wang Huaquan
Published: June 2021

Background

The myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a high‐risk hemocytopenia easily converted to acute myeloid leukemia. CD47 plays an important role in regulating phagocytosis, and its role in the pathogenesis of MDS is unclear.

Methods

CD47 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR on CD34+CD38− cells were detected by flow cytometry. NF‐κB, PI3K, AKT, PTEN, and mTOR mRNA overexpressed in CD34+CD38−CD47+ cells were performed by real‐time quantitative transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Phagocytic capacity of macrophages was measured with carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester and fluorescent microspheres. Sorted CD34+CD38−CD47+ cells were injected into NOD‐Prkdcscid Il2rgnull mice.

Results

The expression of CD47 on CD34+CD38− cells of the patients in high‐risk MDS based on IPSS‐R/WPSS score was higher than that in low‐risk MDS and controls. The signaling pathway of PI3K/AKT/mTOR is active in CD34+CD38−CD47+ cells of MDS patients. CD47 overexpressing CD34+CD38− cells has antiphagocytosis. CD47 overexpressing leukemia stem cell (LSC) ‐transplanted mice has a short survival time. The macrophages originated from MDS might elicit a pro‐tumor response in MDS by inhibiting phagocytosis.

Conclusions

Phagocytosis checkpoints are impaired in MDS. High expression of CD47 on CD34+CD38− cells indicates poor clinical prognosis in MDS.
From the sidelines: The indirect repercussions of COVID‐19 on the delivery of hospital surgical services
Authors: McBride Kate E. , Steffens Daniel , Solomon Michael J.
Published: June 2021

Background

Despite relatively few COVID‐19 cases within New South Wales, the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic has prevented a return to business as usual for the delivery of surgical services. This study aims to describe the evolving impact of COVID‐19 on surgical activity and patient outcomes at a major public tertiary referral hospital.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study involving adult surgical patients treated at a large public tertiary referral hospital in Sydney, Australia. Surgical activity, surgical outcomes and patient demographics were compared across two time periods, including the ‘first wave’ (February–May 2020 vs. February–May 2019) and the ‘perseverance phase’ (June–September 2020 vs. June–September 2019). Variables across both groups were compared using an independent t test or chi‐squared test.

Results

A −32% reduction in surgical separations was observed in the ‘first wave’, including −20% emergency and −37% elective. In the ‘perseverance phase’, there was a −19% reduction in surgical activity, including 0% emergency and −27% elective. The average length of stay, intensive care admissions, postoperative complications and in‐hospital costs significantly increased in the ‘first wave’. The proportion of public patients increased marginally (3%) in the ‘first wave’.

Conclusion

The impact of COVID‐19 was most severely experienced in the initial months of the pandemic and observed in the number of patients treated. Although there was an initial effect on surgical outcomes, overall, the standard of care remained safe. The delivery of elective surgery remains a challenge and reflects the ongoing system‐wide changes that are required to manage the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Fabrication and performance evaluation of polymeric membrane using blood compatible hydroxyapatite for artificial kidney application
Authors: Zaman Shafiq Uz , Saif‐ur‐Rehman  , Zaman Muhammad Khaliq U , Rafiq Sikander , Arshad Amber , Khurram Muhammad Shahzad , Irfan Muhammad , Saqib Sidra , Muhammad Nawshad , Irfan Masooma , Sharif Faiza , Bustam Mohamad Azmi , Jamal Muddasar , Khan Muhammad Asad , Waseem Muhammad Ahsan , Mukhtar Ahmad , Wajeeh Salman
Published: June 2021

In the current study, a phase inversion scheme was employed to fabricate hydroxyapatite (HA)/polysulfone (PSF)‐based asymmetric membranes using a film applicator with water as a solvent and nonsolvent exchanging medium. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopic studies were conducted to confirm the bonding chemistry and purity of filler. The inherent thick nature of PSF generated sponge‐like shape while the instantaneous demixing process produced finger‐like pore networks in HA/PSF‐based asymmetric membranes as exhibited by scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs. The FTIR spectra confirmed noncovalent weak attractions toward the polymer surface. The leaching ratio was evaluated to observe the dispersion behavior of HA filler in membrane composition. Hydrophilicity, pore profile, pure water permeation (PWP) flux, and molecular weight cutoff (MWCO) values of all formulated membranes were also calculated. Antifouling results revealed that HA modified PSF membranes exhibited 43% less adhesion of bovine serum albumin (BSA) together with >86% recovery of flux. Membrane composition showed 74% total resistance, out of which 60% was reversible resistance. Biocompatibility evaluation revealed that the modified membranes exhibited prothrombin time (PT), and thrombin time (TT) comparable with typical blood plasma, whereas proliferation of living cells over membrane surface proved its nontoxic behavior toward biomedical application. The urea and creatinine showed effective adsorption aptitude toward HA loaded PSF membranes.
Tofacitinib as salvage therapy for 55 patients hospitalised with refractory severe ulcerative colitis: A GETAID cohort
Authors: Uzzan Mathieu , Bresteau Clément , Laharie David , Stefanescu Carmen , Bellanger Christophe , Carbonnel Franck , Serrero Mélanie , Viennot Stéphanie , Nachury Maria , Amiot Aurélien , Altwegg Romain , Picon Laurence , Nahon Stéphane , Vuitton Lucine , Ah Soune Philippe , Kirchgesner Julien , Peyrin‐Biroulet Laurent , Bouhnik Yoram ,   GETAID‐TALC Study Group
Published: June 2021

Background

Up to 25% of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) will require hospitalization for severe flare. In patients hospitalised for severe flare, who previously experienced multiple drug failures, including steroids and anti‐TNF agents, new quick‐acting medical options are needed. Tofacitinib is effective in refractory UC and has a rapid onset of action.

Aim

To evaluate effectiveness and safety of tofacitinib as rescue therapy in patients hospitalised for UC flare.

Methods

We conducted an observational and multicentre study with both retrospective and prospective collections in 14 GETAID centres. The primary objective was to assess the survival without colectomy following tofacitinib initiation in patients hospitalised for a UC flare. We determined rates of clinical response, clinical remission, and steroid‐free clinical remission at week 6 and week 14 and safety.

Results

Fifty‐five patients were included (49 with prior infliximab failure and 19 previously exposed to ciclosporin). With a median follow‐up of 6.5 months (interquartile range [IQR] [3‐12.3]), rate of colectomy‐free survival was estimated at 78.9% (95 CI [68.5‐90.9]) and 73.6% (95 CI [61.9‐87.3]) at 3 and 6 months, respectively. Rates of clinical response, clinical remission and steroid‐free clinical remission were 60%, 45.5% and 37.5% at week 6 and 41.8%, 34.5% and 32.7% at week 14. Regarding safety, no death was observed, three patients withdrew tofacitinib due to adverse events. Two herpes zoster infections occurred in patients aged over 60 years old. No venous thrombotic or major adverse cardiovascular events occurred.

Conclusion

Tofacitinib appears as a promising option in patients hospitalised with a UC flare but needs further validation in controlled trials.
Treatment of moderate grade dog bite wounds using amoxicillin–clavulanic acid with and without enrofloxacin: a randomised non‐inferiority trial
Authors: Kalnins NJ , Haworth M , Croton C , Gibson JS , Stewart AJ , Purcell SL
Published: June 2021

Background

Dog‐to‐dog bite wounds are a common veterinary emergency presentation: despite this, there is insufficient information to guide veterinarians on appropriate empirical antimicrobial management.

Objectives

Investigate the effectiveness of amoxicillin–clavulanic acid with and without enrofloxacin in the treatment of moderate grade dog bite wounds (DBW). To describe common pathogens and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.

Materials and methods

In a single‐centre parallel group pragmatic trial, 50 dogs presenting with moderate grade DBW were prospectively randomised to receive amoxicillin–clavulanic acid (group A) or amoxicillin–clavulanic acid and enrofloxacin (group B). Swabs were taken for culture and susceptibility testing at admission. Stabilisation, wound care and surgical debridement were performed at the discretion of admitting clinicians. The primary outcome was complication due to infection at 10 days, with Bayesian inference used to estimate the difference in proportions between treatment groups.

Results

Of the 24 dogs in treatment group A, 1 required the addition of enrofloxacin at re‐examination. None of the 26 dogs in group B required alteration of antimicrobial coverage. The difference in complication rate due to infection between treatment groups was 4.2%. Twenty‐one different organisms were identified: Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Neisseria spp., Pasteurella multocida and P. canis were the most common. Over 90% of gram‐negative and gram‐positive isolates were susceptible to amoxicillin–clavulanic acid. Ninety‐six percent of gram‐negative and 86% of gram‐positive isolates were susceptible to enrofloxacin.

Conclusion and clinical significance

Amoxicillin–clavulanic acid is an appropriate empirical antimicrobial choice for moderate DBW in South East Queensland. Reduced empirical enrofloxacin use will promote antimicrobial stewardship and potentially antimicrobial resistance.
Self‐reported academic performance and academic cheating: Exploring the role of the perceived classroom (in)justice mediators
Authors: Sabbagh Clara
Published: June 2021

Background

As a point of departure, this study assumes that teaching to impart knowledge is inseparable from its moral role to create an ethical citizenry, such as developing standards of academic integrity.

Aims

The study aims at delving into how different facets of the sense of (in)justice in the classroom may play a significant role in explaining cheating behaviour, in general, and among low‐achieving students, in particular.

Sample and Methods

The study was conducted among 5,084 eighth and ninth graders Israeli students. CFA and a structural modelling equations method were used to examine the study’s factorial constructs and model, respectively.

Results

Findings pointed to a good fit of the measurement model using SEM. In accordance with the mediating hypothesis, self‐reported academic achievement was negatively related to self‐reported academic cheating. Moreover, perceived ‘school injustice’ (procedural and distributive justice as estimates) played a mediating role in explaining the relation between academic performance and cheating behaviour. It is noteworthy, however, that the facet of the personality‐like construct of justice sensitivity displayed inconsistent findings and no mediating effect when examined as a separate model.

Conclusions

Self‐reported academic performance and academic cheating among middle school’ students were explained more strongly by contextual justice‐related factors, namely perceived teachers’ distributional and procedural practices in the classroom, than by justice sensitivity, which is a personality factor. Thus, teachers’ justice practices seem to be crucial for developing a predisposition to academic honesty.
Eltrombopag for myelodysplastic syndromes or chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia with no excess blasts and thrombocytopenia: a French multicentre retrospective real‐life study
Authors: Comont Thibault , Meunier Mathieu , Cherait Amina , Santana Clemence , Cluzeau Thomas , Slama Bohrane , Laribi Kamel , Giraud Jean‐Thomas , Dimicoli Sophie , Berceanu Ana , Le Clech Lenaïg , Cony‐Makhoul Pascale , Gruson Berangere , Torregrosa Jose , Sanhes Laurence , Jachiet Vincent , Azerad Marie‐Agnes , Al Jijakli Ahmad , Gyan Emmanuel , Gaudin Clement , Broner Jonathan , Guerveno Claire , Guillaume Thierry , Ades Pr Lionel , Beyne‐Rauzy Odile , Fenaux Pierre ,   Groupe Francophone des Myélodysplasies (GFM)
Published: June 2021

Despite a moderate prevalence in low‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML), thrombocytopenia remains a risk of severe bleeding and therapeutic options are still limited. There are only a few studies with eltrombopag (ELT), a thrombopoietin receptor agonist, in those patients. In this retrospective multicentre study, ELT was used in 50 patients with MDS and 11 with CMML, with no excess of marrow blasts and platelet counts of <50 × 109/l in a ‘real‐life’ situation. Platelet response occurred in 47 (77%) patients. The median (range) duration of response was 8 (0–69) months. None of the eight still responders who discontinued ELT had relapsed, at a median (range) of 16 (6–23) months after ELT discontinuation. Although 36% of the patients were anti‐coagulated or anti‐aggregated only 10% of patients had Grade ≥3 bleeding events. Thrombotic events were observed in six (10%) patients, who all but one had a medical history of arterial or venous thrombosis. Progression to acute myeloid leukaemia occurred in four (7%) patients. In this first ‘real‐life’ study, ELT was effective and generally well tolerated in patients with MDS/CMML without excess blasts.
Realization of interactive animation creation based on artificial intelligence technology
Authors: Cai YuXin , Dong Haibin , Wang Wei , Song Hongchang
Published: June 2021

In film and television animation works, animated characters are the soul and core of the work. The behavior, language expression, and emotional expression of animated characters play an important role in the expression of the animation theme and content. Aiming at the problem that the mobile animation system can only add and change actions for a single virtual character, and the characters cannot interact with each other, this paper analyzes the technical principles, technical characteristics, and application scope of human–computer interaction (HCI), taking sensors as the research object. An algorithm for separating the human body from the background environment in the depth image is proposed. Through the calculation of the depth value, the calculation results are compared, and the target human body and the background are effectively separated. In the depth data processing, the algorithm of judging the pixel offset value is used to identify the body part, and a sensor‐based HCI system is designed. The depth‐of‐field data map acquired by the sensor is used to identify human body parts and determine actions, thereby realizing HCI based on action recognition. Simulation test results show that the effective rate of the system is 80%, and the design of animated characters can be put into the visualization stage. Using the algorithm in this paper, the physical signs of the animated characters can be quickly identified, so that the next action of the animation can be more clearly captured. Has a certain practical value.
Diagnosis of melanoma by imaging mass spectrometry: Development and validation of a melanoma prediction model
Authors: Al‐Rohil Rami N. , Moore Jessica L. , Patterson Nathan Heath , Nicholson Sarah , Verbeeck Nico , Claesen Marc , Muhammad Jameelah Z. , Caprioli Richard M. , Norris Jeremy L. , Kantrow Sara , Compton Margaret , Robbins Jason , Alomari Ahmed K.
Published: June 2021

Background

The definitive diagnosis of melanocytic neoplasia using solely histopathologic evaluation can be challenging. Novel techniques that objectively confirm diagnoses are needed. This study details the development and validation of a melanoma prediction model from spatially resolved multivariate protein expression profiles generated by imaging mass spectrometry (IMS).

Methods

Three board‐certified dermatopathologists blindly evaluated 333 samples. Samples with triply concordant diagnoses were included in this study, divided into a training set (n = 241) and a test set (n = 92). Both the training and test sets included various representative subclasses of unambiguous nevi and melanomas. A prediction model was developed from the training set using a linear support vector machine classification model.

Results

We validated the prediction model on the independent test set of 92 specimens (75 classified correctly, 2 misclassified, and 15 indeterminate). IMS detects melanoma with a sensitivity of 97.6% and a specificity of 96.4% when evaluating each unique spot. IMS predicts melanoma at the sample level with a sensitivity of 97.3% and a specificity of 97.5%. Indeterminate results were excluded from sensitivity and specificity calculations.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence that IMS‐based proteomics results are highly concordant to diagnostic results obtained by careful histopathologic evaluation from a panel of expert dermatopathologists.
Rising repair costs and the throwaway society
Authors: McCollough John , Qiu Ailian
Published: June 2021

When faced with a malfunctioning household product, consumers can choose to repair their older product for further reuse or they can discard it and purchase a newly manufactured version. Electing to replace the older, malfunctioning product may impact the environment negatively. Over time repair costs have been rising faster than the cost of newly manufactured products. As a result, many more consumers are choosing to not have their older products repaired. This article examines empirically the cause of rising repair costs, taking automobiles as an example, and discusses wider issues around the ‘throwaway society’.
Associations of toothbrushing behaviour with risks of vascular and nonvascular diseases in Chinese adults
Authors: Zhuang Zhenhuang , Gao Meng , Lv Jun , Yu Canqing , Guo Yu , Bian Zheng , Yang Ling , Du Huaidong , Chen Yiping , Ning Feng , Liu Huilin , Chen Junshi , Chen Zhengming , Huang Tao , Li Liming ,   The China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB) Collaborative Group
Published: June 2021

Accumulating evidence has shown that poor oral hygiene is associated with increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases in Western populations. However, its relevance about the relationships in Chinese adults remains unclear. The China Kadoorie Biobank enrolled 512 715 adults aged 30‐79 years in China during 2004‐2008. Cox regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for each disease associated with measures of oral hygiene. Overall 9.3% of the participants reported rarely or never brushing teeth at baseline. Participants who rarely or never brushed teeth had adjusted HR of 1.12 (95% CI: 1.09, 1.15) for MVE, with similar HRs for stroke (1.08, 1.05‐1.12), intracerebral haemorrhage (1.18, 1.11‐1.26) and pulmonary heart disease (1.22, 1.13‐1.32) compared with those who brushed teeth regularly. Those who did not brush teeth also had increased risk of cancer (1.09, 1.04‐1.14), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (1.12, 1.05‐1.20), liver cirrhosis (1.25, 1.09‐1.44) and all‐cause death (1.25, 1.21‐1.28) but not type 2 diabetes (0.94, 0.86‐1.03) and chronic kidney disease (0.98, 0.81‐1.18). Among Chinese adults, we found that poor oral hygiene is associated with higher risks of major vascular disease, cancer, COPD, liver cirrhosis and all‐cause deaths, but not type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.
Risk and outcomes of COVID‐19 in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Moreno‐Torres Irene , Meca Lallana Virginia , Costa‐Frossard Lucienne , Oreja‐Guevara Celia , Aguirre Clara , Alba Suárez Elda María , Gómez Moreno Mayra , Borrega Canelo Laura , Sabín Muñoz Julia , Aladro Yolanda , Cárcamo Alba , Rodríguez García Elena , Cuello Juan Pablo , Monreal Enric , Sainz de la Maza Susana , Pérez Parra Fernando , Valenzuela Rojas Francisco , López de Silanes de Miguel Carlos , Casanova Ignacio , Martínez Gines Maria Luisa , Blasco Rosario , Orviz García Aida , Villar‐Guimerans Luisa María , Fernández‐Dono Guillermo , Elvira Víctor , Santiuste Carmen , Espiño Mercedes , García Domínguez José Manuel
Published: June 2021

Background and purpose

Limited information is available on incidence and outcomes of COVID‐19 in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study investigated the risks of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and COVID‐19‐related outcomes in patients with MS, and compared these with the general population.

Methods

A regional registry was created to collect data on incidence, hospitalization rates, intensive care unit admission, and death in patients with MS and COVID‐19. National government outcomes and seroprevalence data were used for comparison. The study was conducted at 14 specialist MS treatment centers in Madrid, Spain, between February and May 2020.

Results

Two‐hundred nineteen patients were included in the registry, 51 of whom were hospitalized with COVID‐19. The mean age ± standard deviation was 45.3 ± 12.4 years, and the mean duration of MS was 11.9 ± 8.9 years. The infection incidence rate was lower in patients with MS than the general population (adjusted incidence rate ratio = 0.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.70–0.80), but hospitalization rates were higher (relative risk = 5.03, 95% CI = 3.76–6.62). Disease severity was generally low, with only one admission to an intensive care unit and five deaths. Males with MS had higher incidence rates and risk of hospitalization than females. No association was found between the use of any disease‐modifying treatment and hospitalization risk.

Conclusions

Patients with MS do not appear to have greater risks of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection or severe COVID‐19 outcomes compared with the general population. The decision to start or continue disease‐modifying treatment should be based on a careful risk–benefit assessment.
Machine learning‐based genetic feature identification and fatigue life prediction
Authors: Zhou Kun , Sun Xingyue , Shi Shouwen , Song Kai , Chen Xu
Published: June 2021

Considering the nonlinear relationship between variables and fatigue life and the computational burden, a machine learning method integrating the artificial neural network (ANN) and partial least squares (PLS) algorithm was proposed as a framework to identify the genetic features through optimizing fatigue life prediction. Twenty‐seven specimens of 316LN stainless steel under uniaxial and multiaxial loadings were used as examples. As results, early fatigue data were proved to be informative for fatigue life prediction. Moreover, five genetic features were identified out of them, and a predicting model was developed. The predicted fatigue life of these samples using only these five genetic features were all located within the 1.5‐factor band. This framework can be easily extended to identify genetic features and to predict fatigue life of other materials under different loadings. Therefore, it provides an efficient option in this field to greatly reduce experimental time and cost.
Do volatility extensions improve the quality of closing call auctions?
Authors: Félez‐Viñas Ester , Hagströmer Björn
Published: June 2021

To improve the efficiency of the closing price, many equity exchanges apply volatility extensions to their closing call auctions (CCAs). If an imminent auction execution implies a large price change, the order submission period is extended to let traders reconsider their orders. This paper uses the introduction of closing auction volatility extensions at NASDAQ Nordic to provide the first analysis of the effects of such mechanisms. We find that the volatility extensions reduce transitory volatility and deter price manipulation at the close. Consistent with increased trust in the mechanism, the CCA attracts higher volumes after the change.
Righting the balance: Understanding introverts (and extraverts) in the workplace
Authors: Blevins Dane P. , Stackhouse Madelynn R. D. , Dionne Shelley D.
Published: June 2021

Since being introduced over a century ago, trait extraversion and introversion have generated substantial research. However, this research has focused primarily on extraversion, with introversion being relatively neglected. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to take stock of extraversion and introversion research in the workplace. Doing so allows us to propose a shift in focus away from extraversion to the study of introversion and its potential positive benefits. First, we briefly review the traits’ evolution during the past century and then examine 10 commonly used trait extraversion scales to better understand how extraversion and introversion are studied. Thereafter, we review 10 years of scholarship (2009–2019) appearing in 12 leading management journals. Overall, we find that there is a positive bias towards extraversion and its positively valenced characteristics such as positive affect, outgoingness and socialness. In contrast, our review reveals that introversion is treated as ‘low extraversion’ and often imbued with negatively valenced characteristics such as social awkwardness and low social self‐esteem. Based on our multilevel review of the literature, we propose a working list of positively valenced characteristics of introversion and suggest how these introversion characteristics might be beneficial at multiple levels in organizations. In doing so, we hope that our paper will generate new ways of seeing introversion and extraversion alike, which should help right the balance in our shared understanding of how extraversion and introversion can positively shape workplace outcomes.
Description of the marine predator Sericomyxa perlucida gen. et sp. nov., a cultivated representative of the deepest branching lineage of vampyrellid amoebae (Vampyrellida, Rhizaria)
Authors: More Kiran , Simpson Alastair G. B. , Hess Sebastian
Published: June 2021

The vampyrellids (Vampyrellida, Rhizaria) are naked amoebae of considerable genetic diversity. Three families have been well‐defined (Vampyrellidae, Leptophryidae, and Placopodidae), but most vampyrellid lineages detected by environmental sequencing are poorly known or completely uncharacterized. In the brackish sediment of Lake Bras D’Or, Nova Scotia, Canada, we discovered an amoeba with a vampyrellid‐like life history that was morphologically dissimilar from previously known vampyrellid taxa. We established a culture of this amoeba, studied its feeding behavior and prey range specificity, and characterized it with molecular phylogenetic methods and light and electron microscopy. The amoeba was a generalist predator (i.e. eukaryotroph), devouring a range of marine microalgae, with a strong affinity for some benthic diatoms and Chroomonas. Interestingly, the amoeba varied its feeding strategy depending on the prey species. Small diatoms were engulfed whole, while larger species were fed on through extraction with an invading pseudopodium. The SSU rRNA gene phylogenies robustly placed the amoeba in the most basal, poorly described lineage (“clade C”) of the Vampyrellida. Based on the phylogenetic position and the distinct morphology of the studied amoeba, we here describe it as Sericomyxa perlucida gen. et sp. nov., and establish the new vampyrellid family Sericomyxidae for “clade C.”
Automated tracking of S. pombe spindle elongation dynamics
Authors: Uzsoy Ana Sofía M. , Zareiesfandabadi Parsa , Jennings Jamie , Kemper Alexander F. , Elting Mary Williard
Published: June 2021

The mitotic spindle is a microtubule‐based machine that pulls the two identical sets of chromosomes to opposite ends of the cell during cell division. The fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe is an important model organism for studying mitosis due to its simple, stereotyped spindle structure and well‐established genetic toolset. S. pombe spindle length is a useful metric for mitotic progression, but manually tracking spindle ends in each frame to measure spindle length over time is laborious and can limit experimental throughput. We have developed an ImageJ plugin that can automatically track S. pombe spindle length over time and replace manual or semi‐automated tracking of spindle elongation dynamics. Using an algorithm that detects the principal axis of the spindle and then finds its ends, we reliably track the length of the spindle as the cell divides. The plugin integrates with existing ImageJ features, exports its data for further analysis outside of ImageJ and does not require any programming by the user. Thus, the plugin provides an accessible tool for quantification of S. pombe spindle length that will allow automatic analysis of large microscopy data sets and facilitate screening for effects of cell biological perturbations on mitotic progression.
Effects of nurses’ individual, professional and work environment characteristics on job performance
Authors: Sarıköse Seda , Göktepe Nilgün
Published: June 2021

Aims and objectives

This study aimed to examine the effects of nurses’ individual, professional and work environment characteristics on their job performance levels.

Background

Nurses’ job performance is important in the effective and efficient provision of health care.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional study. The STROBE guidelines were used in this study.

Methods

The sample of this descriptive, correlational and cross‐sectional study comprised 370 nurses working at one private and two university hospitals in Turkey. A demographic information form, the Practice Work Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index (PES‐NWI) and the Nursing Job Performance Scale (JPS) were used to collect the data. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation and multiple linear (stepwise) regression.

Results

There was a significant and positive correlation between the scores on the PES‐NWI and the JPS (r: 0.65, p < .05). Regression analysis showed that nurses’ job performance was affected by five variables (R2: 59%, p < .05, Durbin–Watson: 2.06).

Conclusion

The results of the study show that three sub‐dimensions of the PES‐NWI (nursing foundations for quality of care; staffing and resource adequacy; nurse manager abilities, leadership and support for nurses), colleague solidarity and education level were important factors affecting job performance.

Relevance to clinical practice

The job performance of nurses is a priority issue in delivering quality healthcare services. Further efforts need to be pursued to nurse managers ensure a positive work environment to increase their nurses’ job performance.
Tackling the challenges of evolutionary forest research with multidata approaches
Authors: Opgenoorth Lars , Rellstab Christian
Published: June 2021

Many forest tree species have characteristics that make the study of their evolutionary ecology complex. For example, they are long‐lived and thus have long generation times, and their often large, complex genomes have hampered establishing genomic resources. One way to tackle this challenge is to access multiple complementary data sources and analytical approaches when attempting to infer patterns of adaptive evolution. In the cover article of this issue of Molecular Ecology, Depardieu et al. (2021) combine large amounts of environmental, genomic, dendrochronological, and gene expression data in a common garden to explore the polygenic basis of drought resistance in white spruce (Picea glauca), a long‐lived conifer. They identify candidate genes involved in growth and resistance to extreme drought events and show how multiple data sets may deliver complementary evidence to circumvent the manifold challenges of the research field.
Epidermolysis bullosa with pyloric atresia associated with compound heterozygous ITGB4 pathogenic variants: Minimal skin involvement but severe mucocutaneous disease
Authors: Wee Lynette Wei Yi , Tan Ene Choo , Bishnoi Priya , Ng Yi Zhen , Lunny Declan Patrick , Lim Hwee‐Woon , Lee Siew‐Peng , Ong Christina , Yap Te Lu , Mok Yee Hui , Low Mei Yi , Chu‐Tian Chow Cristelle , Derrick Lian , Common John Edmund Armourer , Birgitte Lane Ellen , Koh Mark Jean Aan
Published: June 2021

We report a case of junctional epidermolysis bullosa with pyloric atresia (JEB‐PA) with minimal skin involvement but severe protein‐losing enteropathy and airway involvement. Genetic analysis revealed heterozygous mutations in the ITGB4 gene encoding integrin β4 protein. Parental testing confirmed inheritance of frameshift variant (c.794dupC) as maternal and splice site variant (c.1608C>T/p.Cys536Cys) as paternal. Immunofluorescence mapping of her skin revealed a subepidermal blister with decreased and frayed integrin β4 at both the floor and the roof of the blister, while the intestinal mucosa showed complete absence of integrin β4. We review the literature and discuss the differential expression of integrins in the skin and gastrointestinal tract, as well as the role of chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of EB.
A Numerical Simulation of Fretting Wear considering the Dynamic Evolution of Debris for the Coated Contact Surface
Authors: Xiao Li , Xu Yingqiang , Chen Zhiyong
Published: June 2021

In this paper, a multi-layer body model in which material properties and wear coefficient change with node coordinates is proposed, so that the wear profile is not restricted by the singularity of the interface of the coated contact pairs. The conversion rate of the adhered particles was obtained to describe the growth and expansion of the debris at the fretting interface based on experiments, and the wear model of coated contact pair considering the dynamic evolution of the debris layer was established. By comparing the previous experimental and computational results, the wear calculation method proposed in this paper is more reasonable to predict the wear profile of the coated contact pair. In addition, the influence of the debris layer on the wear depth, friction width, and contact pressure in the fretting process is analyzed, indicating that the existence of the debris layer can delay the wear process. Finally, the fretting wear life of the SCMV steel contact pair deposited with the W-DLC coating is estimated.
Exploring a quantum-information-relevant magnonic material: Ultralow damping at low temperature in the organic ferrimagnet V[TCNE]x
Authors: Yusuf H. , Chilcote M. , Candido D. R. , Kurfman S. , Cormode D. S. , Lu Y. , Flatté M. E. , Johnston-Halperin E.
Published: June 2021

Quantum information science and engineering require novel low-loss magnetic materials for magnon-based quantum-coherent operations. The search for low-loss magnetic materials, traditionally driven by applications in microwave electronics near room temperature, has gained additional constraints from the need to operate at cryogenic temperatures for many applications in quantum information science and technology. Whereas yttrium iron garnet (YIG) has been the material of choice for decades, the emergence of molecule-based materials with robust magnetism and ultra-low damping has opened new avenues for exploration. Specifically, thin films of vanadium tetracyanoethylene (V[TCNE]x) can be patterned into the multiple, connected structures needed for hybrid quantum elements and have shown room-temperature Gilbert damping (α = 4 × 10−5) that rivals the intrinsic (bulk) damping otherwise seen only in highly polished YIG spheres (far more challenging to integrate into arrays). Here, the authors present a comprehensive and systematic study of the low-temperature magnetization dynamics for V[TCNE]x thin films, with implications for their application in quantum systems. These studies reveal a temperature-driven, strain-dependent magnetic anisotropy that compensates the thin-film shape anisotropy and the recovery of a magnetic resonance linewidth at 5 K that is comparable to room-temperature values (roughly 2 G at 9.4 GHz). The authors can account for these variations of the V[TCNE]x linewidth within the context of scattering from very dilute paramagnetic impurities and anticipate additional linewidth narrowing as the temperature is further reduced.
Modeling basic tip forms and its effective field emission parameters
Authors: Filippov Sergey V. , Popov Eugeni O. , Kolosko Anatoly G.
Published: June 2021

One of the important parameters of the single-tip emission system is the total emission current from the tip. To obtain the distribution of the field enhancement factor over the tip surface, we provided comsol simulation for different tip shapes. Current-voltage characteristics are obtained by integrating the current density over the emitter surface. Several types of current density formulas with different degrees of accuracy were used. The basic criterion for the calculation of the peak current was the satisfaction of the apex electric field to field emission test conditions. A “hemisphere on a cylindrical post” emitter was shown to offer compelling advantages in both total emission current and threshold voltage values. The comparison of the effective values of the field enhancement factor and emission area with the apex field enhancement factor and formal emission area is carried out.
A Novel Benzoxaborole Is Active against Escherichia coli and Binds to FabI
Authors: Mandal Soma , Parish Tanya
Published: June 2021

To combat the looming crisis of antimicrobial-resistant infections, there is an urgent need for novel antimicrobial discovery and drug target identification. The benzoxaborole series was previously identified as an inhibitor of mycobacterial growth.
Magnetostratigraphy and magnetic properties of the Jurassic to Lower Cretaceous Girón Group (northern Andes, Colombia)
Authors: Jiménez G. , al. et
Published: June 2021

Table S1. Paleomagnetic results of 199 reliable specimens with geographic coordinates and stratigraphic positions.