bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viscoelasticity assessment of tumoral skin with the use of a novel contact-free palpation methodology based upon surface waves
Authors: Bergheau A. , Perrot J.-L. , Vargiolu R. , Zahouani H.
Published: November 2022

The ensuing pilot investigation sheds new light on characterizing tumoral and non-tumoral human skin mechanical properties that will not only assist the dermatologist’s diagnosis but also could constitute the creation of an Artificial Intelligence database for upcoming research. A modern, non-invasive, and contact-free methodology—UNDERSKIN—was developed, and hinges upon Fourier transform computations that permit the analysis of surface wave dispersion with a specific skin inversion model and viscoelastic model. It yields a detailed look at how particle movements of the medium propagate throughout its near sub-surface, hence a novel knowledge of the mechanical responses of skin tumors. The research results display the tumors’ viscoelastic responses alongside their respective healthy skin outcomes for each skin layer as well as the dermatologist’s touch analysis. Although dermatologists are capable of sensing and having a fair overall assessment of what they are palpating, they are unable heretofore to quantify it and inform where the firmness or softness derives from, which it is necessary to be acquainted with so as to perform an accurate diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, future surgery, and teledermatology.
A high-performance Cu–Al dual-ion battery realized by high-concentration Cl− electrolyte and CuS cathode
Authors: Tan Meina , Qin Yang , Wang Yiping , Zhang Fazhi , Lei Xiaodong
Published: November 2022

We propose a new Cu–Al dual-ion battery that aqueous solution composed of LiCl, CuCl and AlCl3 (LiCuAl) is used as the electrolyte, CuS is used as the cathode of aqueous aluminum ion battery for the first time and copper foil is used as the anode. The assembled Cu–Al dual-ion battery yields a reversible capacity of 538 mA h/g at 200 mA/g, and exhibits longterm cycling stability of over 200 cycles with 88.6% capacity retention at 1000 mA/g. Above excellent performance is inseparable from the three components of LiCuAl electrolyte and electrode materials. The Al-storage mechanism of CuS is proposed that the S–S bond in CuS lattice interacts with aluminum ions during the aluminum storage process. In addition, the charging and discharging process does not cause irreversible damage to the S–S bond, thus Cu–Al dual-ion battery with CuS as cathode shows great cycle stability.
Surface electromyography study on asymmetry in paravertebral muscle degeneration in patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis
Authors: Xie Hongru , Liu Jianan , He Yinchuan , Zhang Zepei , Dong Hongtao , Meng Lin , Miao Jun
Published: November 2022

The asymmetry of paravertebral muscle (PVM) degeneration in degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS) patients has been extensively studied by imaging and histological examination and has not yet been verified by surface electromyography (sEMG) techniques. To study the relationship between the surface electromyography (sEMG) and degenerative characteristics of paravertebral muscles (PVMs) in patients with degenerative lumbar scoliosis (DLS). In twenty DLS patients and fifteen healthy subjects, sEMG activity of the PVMs at the level of the upper end vertebra (UEV), apical vertebra (AV) and lower end vertebra (LEV) was measured during static standing and dynamic standing forward flexion and backward extension tasks. Action segmentation was achieved according to inertial measurement unit (IMU) data. The sEMG characteristics of the PVMs on the convex and concave sides were compared, and the relationship of these data with the Cobb angle and lumbar lordotic angle (LL) was analyzed. In the DLS group, there was no difference in sEMG activity between the convex and concave sides at the UEV or AV level, but in the motion and return phases of the standing forward flexion task (P = 0.000, P = 0.015) and the maintenance and return phases of the standing backward extension task (P = 0.001, P = 0.01), there was a significant difference in sEMG activity between the convex and concave sides at the LEV level. Asymmetrical sEMG activity at the LEV level was negatively correlated with the Cobb angle (F = 93.791, P < 0.001) and LL angle (F = 65.564, P < 0.001). In the DLS group, asymmetrical sEMG activity of the PVMs appeared at the LEV level, with the concave side being more active than the convex side. This sEMG characteristics were consistent with their imaging and histological degenerative features and correlated with bone structural parameters.
T-cell counts in peripheral blood at leukapheresis predict responses to subsequent CAR-T cell therapy
Authors: Wada Fumiya , Jo Tomoyasu , Arai Yasuyuki , Kitawaki Toshio , Mizumoto Chisaki , Kanda Junya , Nishikori Momoko , Yamashita Kouhei , Nagao Miki , Takaori-Kondo Akifumi
Published: November 2022

Prediction of responses to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies is essential to maximize their therapeutic efficacy for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). While several tumor-intrinsic risk factors of resistance and/or early relapse have been identified, clinically useful markers that determine potential activity of CAR-T cells have not been fully investigated. T-cell property at the time of leukapheresis may serve as such a marker. Therefore, we evaluated the clinical impact of CD3+ cell count in peripheral blood at leukapheresis on clinical outcomes of CAR-T cell therapy. In total, 44 patients with relapsed or refractory (r/r) DLBCL who received tisagenlecleucel at Kyoto University Hospital were included. According to CD3+ cell counts, patients were categorized into CD3LOW and CD3HIGH groups with a threshold of 553/μL, based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. 1-year progression-free survival was significantly higher in the CD3HIGH group than the CD3LOW group (68.3% vs. 17.3%; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.37; p = 0.042). Overall survival was also superior in the CD3HIGH group (aHR, 0.24; p = 0.043). Moreover, higher CD3+ cell counts at leukapheresis were associated with significantly higher lymphocyte counts in peripheral blood at day 7 after CAR-T cell infusion (median 860 vs. 420/μL, P = 0.021), suggesting more extensive expansion of infused CAR-T cells in vivo. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the CD3+ cell count at leukapheresis predicts both expansion of CAR-T cells after infusion and outcomes of CAR-T cell therapy, and are useful for building comprehensive therapeutic strategies at the time of leukapheresis.
The parametric hurricane rainfall model with moisture and its application to climate change projections
Authors: Kim Dasol , Park Doo-Sun R. , Nam Chaehyeon C. , Bell Michael M.
Published: November 2022

The parametric hurricane rainfall model (PHRaM), firstly introduced in 2007, has been widely used to forecast and quantify tropical-cyclone-induced rainfall (TC rainfall). The PHRaM is much more computationally efficient than global climate models, but PHRaM cannot be effectively utilized in the context of climate change because it does not have any parameters to capture the increase of tropospheric water vapor under the warming world. This study develops a new model that incorporates tropospheric water vapor to the PHRaM framework, named as the PHRaM with moisture (PHRaMM). The PHRaMM is trained to best fit the TC rainfall over the western North Pacific (WNP) unlike the PHRaM trained with the TCs over the continental US. The PHRaMM reliably simulates radial profile of TC rainfall and spatial distribution of accumulated rainfall during landfall in the present climate with the better prediction skills than existing statistical and operational numerical models. Using the PHRaMM, we evaluated the impacts of TC intensity and environmental moisture increase on TC rainfall change in a future climate. An increased TC intensity causes TC rainfall to increase in the inner-core region but to decrease in the outer region, whereas an increased environmental moisture causes the TC rainfall to increase over the entire TC area. According to the both effects of increased TC intensity and environmental moisture, the PHRaMM projected that the WNP TC rainfall could increase by 4.61–8.51% in the inner-core region and by 17.96–20.91% over the entire TC area under the 2-K warming scenario.
Controlling topological phases of matter with quantum light
Authors: Dmytruk Olesia , Schirò Marco
Published: November 2022

Controlling the topological properties of quantum matter is a major goal of condensed matter physics. A major effort in this direction has been devoted to using classical light in the form of Floquet drives to manipulate and induce states with non-trivial topology. A different route can be achieved with cavity photons. Here we consider a prototypical model for topological phase transition, the one-dimensional Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model, coupled to a single mode cavity. We show that quantum light can affect the topological properties of the system, including the finite-length energy spectrum hosting edge modes and the topological phase diagram. In particular we show that depending on the lattice geometry and the strength of light-matter coupling one can either turn a trivial phase into a topological one or viceversa using quantum cavity fields. Furthermore, we compute the polariton spectrum of the coupled electron-photon system, and we note that the lower polariton branch disappears at the topological transition point. This phenomenon can be used to probe the phase transition in the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model.
Validation of Videoconference Administration of Picture Description From the Western Aphasia Battery–Revised in Neurotypical Canadian French Speakers
Authors: Marcotte Karine , Lachance Arianne , Brisebois Amélie , Mazzocca Patrizia , Désilets-Barnabé Marianne , Desjardins Noémie , Brambati Simona Maria
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, clinicians and researchers have increasingly used remote online assessments to pursue their activities, but mostly with tests not validated for videoconference administration. This study aims to validate the remote online administration of picture description in Canadian French neurotypical speakers and to explore the thematic unit (TU) checklist recently developed.

Method:

Spoken discourse elicited through the picture description task of the Western Aphasia Battery–Revised (WAB-R) was collected from Canadian French neurotypical speakers from Québec aged between 50 and 79 years old. Forty-seven participants completed the task in person, and 49 participants completed the task by videoconference. Videos of each discourse sample were transcribed using CHAT conventions. Microstructural variables were extracted using the CLAN (Computerized Language ANalysis) program, whereas thematic informativeness was scored for each sample using TUs. Chi-square tests were conducted to compare both groups on each TU;
t
tests were also performed on the total score of TUs and microstructural variables.

Results:

Groups were matched on sex, age, and education variables. The
t
tests revealed no intergroup difference for the total TU score and for the microstructural variables (e.g., mean length of utterances and number of words per minute). Chi-square tests showed no significant intergroup difference for all 16 TUs.

Conclusions:

These findings support remote online assessment of the picnic scene of the WAB-R picture description in Canadian French neurotypical speakers. These results also validate the 16 TUs most consistently produced. The use of videoconference could promote and improve the recruitment of participants who are usually less accessible, such as people using assistive mobility technologies.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.21476961
The Impact of COVID-19 on Speech-Language Pathologists Engaged in Clinical Practices With Elevated Coronavirus Transmission Risk: A 2021 Follow-Up Study
Authors: Kearney Ann , Searl Jeff , Erickson-DiRenzo Elizabeth , Damrose Edward J. , Doyle Philip C.
Published: November 2022

Purpose:

This study assessed changes in speech-language pathology practice 1 year following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The specific focus was on speech-language pathologists (SLPs) engaged in evaluation and treatment activities that pose an increased risk of virus transmission, namely, aerosol-generating procedures.

Method:

SLPs from the United States and Canada (
n
= 609) who were engaged in clinical activities with an elevated risk of COVID-19 exposure completed an online survey regarding their clinical practices. Topics assessed included continuation, modification, or cessation of clinical services, personal protective equipment (PPE) use, COVID-19 infections and vaccinations among SLPs, and financial impacts. For comparison, the results from the 2020 survey are included, and the percentage change (2020% − 2021%) is reported.

Results:

A majority of SLPs (90%) who completed the current survey reported that they were not experiencing PPE shortages, a marked change from the 2020 survey. Over half of the SLPs (52%) reported changes in clinical duties in 2021, with in-person visits and endoscopy being the most impacted. Nearly half of the respondents (49%) reported conducting virtual/telehealth clinical activities during the pandemic, and of these, 78% had not done any virtual/telehealth work prior to COVID-19. A positive COVID-19 test was reported by 10% of the SLPs (5% higher than in 2020). Most SLPs (92%) indicated they were vaccinated at the time of this survey.

Conclusions:

The 2021 survey data indicated an overall increase in SLP clinical activities compared with 2020 but have not yet returned to prepandemic levels. These results highlight a notable uptake of virtual/telehealth practice by SLPs, including those who had not previously done so. SLP vaccination rates also exceeded that of the general population.
High‐gain ultra‐wideband quasi‐conical beam Fabry‐Perot antenna based on beam switching
Authors: Yang Junxiang , Qi Shi‐Shan , Wu Wen , Fang Da‐Gang
Published: November 2022

To solve the contradiction between the high gain and wide coverage, the concept of the quasi‐conical beam is proposed by using the high‐gain pencil beam electrically switching along a cone to make full use of time redundancy. In a periphery‐fed Fabry‐Perot (FP)‐type multi‐beam antenna, the electrically switching is used to activate the different port corresponding to the different beam for the beam switching in the azimuthal plane, and the varying frequency is used for the continuous scanning in the elevation plane. Different from the lens or matrix multi‐beam arrays, in this scheme, the FP cavity serves as both the beamforming network and the radiator to produce the multi‐beam. Around eight planar antipodal Fermi‐tapered slot antennas are placed around the FP cavity between the partially reflective surface and the metal ground plane as the primary feeds. The simulation and measurement results show that a relative impedance bandwidth of 53.3% with reflection coefficients below −10 dB from 11 to 19 GHz is obtained and the peak gain is 17.1 dBi at the central frequency of 15 GHz. The results also show that a high‐gain beam scanning from 22° to 59° in the elevation plane is achieved and the peak gains are between 16 dBi and 20 dBi. In addition, when the electrically switching of the beam is along a cone, the proposed antenna may form quasi‐conical beam. And in some applications, it may replace the conventional conical beam antenna with the advantages of wide coverage and high gain.
CFD Simulation of Transonic Flow Through the Tip-Section Turbine Blade Cascade Intended for the Long Turbine Blade
Authors: Kosiak Pavlo , Hála Jindřich , Luxa Martin , Příhoda Jaromír
Published: November 2022

The paper deals with numerical simulations of transonic flow through the turbine blade cascade consisting of flat profiles. The cascade is one of variants of the tip section of ultra-long blades, which were designed for the last stage of the steam turbine. CFD simulations were realized by means of the ANSYS CFX commercial software using the γ-Reθ bypass transition model completed by the two-equation SST turbulence model. Some simulations were made only by the SST turbulence model for comparison. Numerical results were compared with experimental data. Calculations performed for two nominal regimes and two computational domains. In addition to the standard computational domain, the calculation was performed for a domain with an extended output part for the suppression of reflected shock waves. The interaction of the inner branch of the exit shock wave with the boundary layer on the blade suction side leads in the both flow regimes to the flow separation followed by the transition to turbulence. The flow structure in the blade cascade obtained for the extended domain corresponds well to experimental results.
CFD Flow Analysis of the Influence of Rotor Seals in a Cantilever Microturbine
Authors: Syka Tomáš , Weiß Andreas P. , Matas Richard
Published: November 2022

The article describes the results from the research and development of a cantilever microturbine designed for ORC power plants. The main objective of the paper was to compare different types of rotor seals and their effect on the turbine efficiency and rotor forces. The turbine stage and the numerical models used in the CFD system NUMECA FINE/Turbo are briefly described. The results are compared with the values obtained from measurements and previous simulations. The results show a relatively limited influence of the seal design on the turbine efficiency. The results also show the effect of the seal on the rotor axial force.
Hydraulic Design of an Axial Runner Using Classical Methods and CFD Simulation
Authors: Hlbočan Peter , Murgašová Marta , Csuka Zoltán , Varchola Michal
Published: November 2022

The paper deals with the principles of hydraulic design of runners of axial turbines or pumps. The procedures of classical methods of hydraulic design of primary runner geometry and the possibilities of subsequent optimization of this geometry by CFD simulation are presented. In the paper, the advantages of the procedure of hydraulic design of the primary runner geometry of a tubular Kaplan turbine with the application of the classical methods and the subsequent CFD simulation are shown on a specific example. The purpose of the CFD simulation is to verify the achievement of the required parameters of the designed runner geometry and its possible fine-tuning and optimization.
Design of the Discharging Electrode of the Electrostatic Precipitator Depending on the Applied Voltage
Authors: Drga Juraj , Holubčík Michal , Jandačka Jozef , Klačko Andrej
Published: November 2022

The article deals with the design of the diameter and the simulation of the distribution of the intensity of the electric field of the charging electrode of the electrostatic precipitator, given the supplied DC voltage. The purpose was to calculate the value of the critical intensity of the electric field, which must be exceeded when trying to achieve the state of corona discharge on the electrode, which is a condition for electrostatic separation. Subsequently, CFD simulations of two 3D models with electrode diameters of 1 and 4 mm were created, on which the distributions of the electric field intensity were observed at a DC voltage of 20 kV. The simulations confirmed the results of the calculations that the corona discharge at a voltage of 20 kV will occur only on an electrode with a diameter of 1 mm.
Application of Hydrostatic Knowledge in the Construction of Forming Tools
Authors: Moravec Ján
Published: November 2022

Not only traditional (conventional) but also non-traditional (unconventional) methods are used in metal forming. Unconventional methods will, as it turns out, have more scope than in the past, especially in relation to environmental constraints. One of the methods of unconventional forming is forming in a liquid environment, more precisely – sheet metal forming by applying hydrostatic pressure. This is the subject of the present.
Identification of Cavitation by Noise
Authors: Jablonská Jana , Kozubková Milada , Mahdal Miroslav , Štramberský Radek , Blejchař Tomáš , Bojko Marian
Published: November 2022

The identification of cavitation is very important in technical practice for operational and especially economic reasons. The article deals with the use of another way to measure noise during cavitation. The current approach of measuring noise with an intensity probe is used in practice for identification, but it does not immediately address the position of the cavitation source for a given frequency range. Measurement by an acoustic camera is not entirely common in practice, but it allows to determine the location of the noise source for a given frequency range. To test the acoustic camera, the authors focused on the cavitating flow in a hydraulic circuit with three previously tested nozzles. Noise was measured for these nozzles using an acoustic intensity probe with two microphones. The results were evaluated by statistical methods and compared with measurements using an acoustic camera. The aim of the article is to point out the advantages of using this approach for accurate area identification of the problem.

Research background: The work is focused on the issue of cavitation and its identification in the hydraulic circuit. For cavitation research, a variant of cavitation identification by noise was chosen. However, this measurement brings problems that are only revealed through more sophisticated and accurate measurements.

Purpose of the article: The purpose of the article is to point out other possibilities of measuring cavitation noise using modern technologies and subsequently verify the results.

Methods: Metody: A common way of measuring noise is to measure it with a suitably located acoustic intensity probe. A more modern approach is area noise measurement. Measurement methodology and benefits are described.

Findings & Value added: The commonly used way of measuring noise using an acoustic intensity probe has proved to be insufficient, as it is not possible to distinguish the location of sources in the case of complex measurements. When using an acoustic camera, there are more sources of noise in a given circuit and they are detected according to the required frequencies in different places than expected. The article points out the specific identification of noise sources using the frequency spectrum of noise for selected elements.
Gas Dynamic Air Distribution for Post-Reaction Gas Afterburning in a Metallurgical Furnace
Authors: Bialik Wojciech , Gil Stanisław , Mocek Piotr
Published: November 2022

In the paper, the course of post-reaction gas afterburning generated during the metallurgical process where the reduction of metal and semi-metal oxides is performed with the use of carbon is presented. Process waste gases can be an alternative source of energy to be used in the same process or converted to another. The participation of chemical enthalpy in the total energy stream of the post-reaction gas is 93 %, the rest is physical enthalpy. In the study, particular attention was paid to the proper mixing of fuel and oxidizer and to maintaining an appropriate ratio of excess combustion air λa. The dynamics of the post-reaction gas combustion processes was calculated according to several popular models but the best results were obtained using the two-step mechanism with reaction constants according to Westbrook-Dryer.
High Temperature Recuperators Cooperating with a Metallurgical Furnace for Heating the Air Under Pressure
Authors: Bialik Wojciech , Gil Stanisław , Mocek Piotr
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a system which uses hot furnace gases from a metallurgical process to heat compressed air necessary for another energy process is presented. The applied construction of the recuperator ensures high temperatures of the heated air needed for its utilisation in a separate process. Their levels depend on the processes in the reactor. A limitation to the construction of the installation is creep resistance of the materials used to assemble the recuperator modules which operate under high-temperature regimes. The well-prepared gas dynamic design of the recuperator ensured low pressure loss for the flowing air. Furnace gases leaving the recuperation system still have a high energy potential which can be utilised. As it is not possible to manage such large amounts of additional energy, the problem will be solved in the future when necessary.
Vortex Identification in a Free-Surface Flow Problem Solved Using SPH
Authors: Jančík Petr , Hyhlík Tomáš
Published: November 2022

This article focuses on vortex structure identification methods and their implementation into smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) framework. The most common criteria based on the local velocity gradient tensor analysis like Q-criterion, Δ-criterion, and λ2-criterion are introduced together with their implementation for SPH data. A two-dimensional ‘double dam break’ problem was chosen as a test case because it results in a violent transient free-surface flow with emerging and vanishing eddies of various sizes and intensities. Q-criterion and Δ-criterion results were virtually identical, whereas λ2-criterion appeared to be the most restrictive in vortex identification, so it was the best in suppressing incorrect findings due to the numerical solution imperfection. The analysis of the problem was therefore conducted using the λ2-criterion.
On Vorticity Dynamics in Turbulent Wake behind Circular Cylinder
Authors: Uruba Václav , Procházka Pavel
Published: November 2022

The circular cylinder turbulent wake is studied experimentally using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) method. The vorticity component parallel to the cylinder axis is evaluated from measured velocity field. Dynamics of the vorticity field is analysed using the Oscillation Pattern Decomposition (OPD) method. The 3 dominant modes corresponding to the 1st, 2nd and 3rd harmonics of Strouhal frequency are detected and presented. The corresponding topologies are characterized by waves of vortical systems. The results are similar to the dynamics of velocity field, however the procedure is much easier to implement, as only half number of degrees of freedom are active.
Drop Hunter Isokinetic Probe for Cooling Tower Drift Measurement
Authors: Procházka Pavel , Barraclough Veronika , Uruba Václav , Skála Vladislav
Published: November 2022

Abstract. This paper is devoted to the development of a new probe to measure a drift from cooling towers. The probe was named DPIK (Drop Hunter Isokinetic) and its development consists of a design of the aerodynamic and microelectronic part of the probe, verification methods, design and testing, verification tests in laboratory conditions and measurements on a model of the cooling tower. The paper deals mainly with the verification tools, as these methods are very closely related to the aerodynamic part of the probe design. Two options were chosen for verifying the probe principle. The first of these was the Interferometric Particle Imaging (IPI) method, the second was another optical method using similar experimental equipment Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV).
Multi-Exposure PIV Measurements of Velocity Fields in Sprays
Authors: Mlkvik Marek , Olšiak Robert , Knížat Branislav
Published: November 2022

This paper presents an approach to the use of the PIV method in the diagnosis of sprays generated by an effervescent atomiser. Due to the different density of the liquid phase depending on the distance from the nozzle, problems arise with the correct exposure of images for PIV analysis. The aim of the authors of this paper is to outline the possibility of solving this problem by composing a velocity field from partial measurements. To meet the objectives of the paper, in-house PIV equipment (hardware and software) was used rather than a commercial setup. This allowed for easier handling of the measured data and more sophisticated post-processing than offered by commercial products. It is clear from the results presented that, despite the fundamental differences in the optical properties of the spray particles, it is possible to obtain a velocity field from the discharge zone to the spray region with fine droplets. Moreover, it is possible to combine velocity measurements in the spray cone with measurements in the surrounding environment.

Research background: Spray is an environment with an abundance of tracers for PIV analysis (droplets), but their density, size and shape vary dramatically with distance from the nozzle. The use of PIV can therefore be challenging due to the demands of this method for correct image exposure.

Purpose of the article: Introduction of the application of the PIV method for environments with variable density and size of tracer particles

Methods: PIV, image processing.

Findings & Value added: By taking an appropriate approach to acquiring the source PIV images, it is possible to obtain information about the velocities throughout the spray cone as well as in the surrounding environment. The application of the proposed method requires a sufficiently large source data set (images) and sophisticated postprocessing. However, as a result, it is possible to obtain an overall view of the velocity field in the spray cone starting from the area behind the nozzle to the fine droplet region.
MyotonPRO is a Reliable and Repeatable Tool for Measuring Mechanical
Properties of the Upper Limb Muscles in Patients with Chronic
Stroke
Authors: Taş Serkan , Aktaş Arda , Tufek M. Taha , Dağ Figen
Published: November 2022

Background/Aim Muscle mechanical properties can be measured using
a variety of methods. The current study intended to examine the inter-session
and inter-rater reliability of the MyotonPRO for assessing the mechanical
properties of the upper limb muscles in chronic stroke patients.

Materials and Methods The research included 20 stroke patients (14 male
and 6 female) ranging in age between 36 and 84 years (65.1±11.2 years).
A MyotonPRO was used to assess the oscillation frequency, stiffness, and
logarithmic decrement of the triceps brachii, biceps brachii, upper trapezius,
and deltoid muscles. Two physiotherapists conducted the assessments to determine
the tool's inter-rater reliability. A physiotherapist repeated the
measurements 3 days after the first measurements for determining the
inter-session reliability of the tool.

Results The ICCs of all assessed muscles ranged within 0.72–0.97.
The coefficient of variation of all muscles varied within
3.2–11.0%, 3.4–9.7% for oscillation frequency,
3.9–7.4% for stiffness, and 3.2–11.0% for
decrement. In the measured muscles, the standard error of assessment varied
within 0.5–1.2 Hz for frequency,
9.2–21.2 N/m for stiffness, and 0.1–0.4 for
decrement.

Conclusions The results indicate that MyotonPRO has a between good and
excellent inter-section and inter-rater reliability for measuring the tone,
stiffness, and elasticity of the triceps brachii, biceps brachii, upper
trapezius, and deltoid muscles in chronic stroke patients. MyotonPRO can be used
for the diagnostic and therapeutic intention in chronic stroke patients.
The Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of COVID-19 Patients with
Pre-Existing Thyroid Dysfunction: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Sahin Mustafa , Demirci Ibrahim , Haymana Cem , Tasci Ilker , Emral Rıfat , Cakal Erman , unluturk Ugur , Satman Ilhan , Demir Tevfik , Ata Naim , Ertugrul Derun , Atmaca Aysegul , Salman Serpil , Sahin Ibrahim , Dagdelen Selcuk , Celik Osman , Caglayan Murat , Sonmez Alper
Published: November 2022

To which extent the pre-existing hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism has an impact
on coronavirus infection 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes remains unclear. The objective
of this study was to evaluate COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in patients with
pre-existing thyroid dysfunction. A retrospective cohort of patients with a
polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-conﬁrmed COVID-19 infection
(n=14 966) from March 11 to May 30, 2020, was established using the
database of the Turkish Ministry of Health. We compared the morbidity and
mortality rates of COVID-19 patients with pre-existing hypothyroidism
(n=8813) and hyperthyroidism (n=1822) to those patients with
normal thyroid function (n=4331). Univariate and multivariate regression
analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with mortality.
Mortality rates were higher in patients with hyperthyroidism (7.7%) and
hypothyroidism (4.4%) than those with normal thyroid function
(3.4%) (p<0.001 and p=0.008, respectively). Pre-existing
hyperthyroidism was significantly associated with an increased risk of mortality
(OR 1.54; 95% CI, 1.02–2.33; p=0.042) along with
advanced age, male gender, lymphopenia and chronic kidney disease
(p<0.001 for all). Although a potential trend was noted, the association
between pre-existing hypothyroidism and mortality was not significant (OR 1.36;
95% CI, 0.99–1.86; p=0.055). In conclusion, this study
showed an association between pre-existing hyperthyroidism with higher COVID-19
mortality. A potential trend towards increased mortality was also observed for
hypothyroidism. The risk was more pronounced in patients with
hyperthyroidism.
Safety and efficacy of a new cold snare technique with clipping for colorectal angioectasia
Authors: Arimoto Jun , Chiba Hideyuki , Yamada Keiji , Okada Naoya , Kobayashi Mikio , Kuwabara Hiroki , Nakaoka Michiko , Ohata Ken
Published: November 2022

Colorectal angioectasia is a major cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Use of antithrombotic agents is expected to increase with aging of the population, and bleeding from angioectasia is an important issue. Although the effectiveness of endoscopic mucosal resection for colorectal angioectasia has been reported, there are no reports of cold snare technique for angioectasia (CSA). From February 2018 to February 2022, the safety of CSA was evaluated at Omori Red Cross Hospital. We investigated the incidence of bleeding (delayed post-polypectomy bleeding (DPPB) and immediate bleeding) after CSA and the incidence of rebleeding requiring repeated endoscopic treatment. During the study period, 106 angioectasias were identified during colonoscopy. We only targeted patients with bloody stools and/or anemia requiring treatment for bleeding from angioectasia. Finally, we included 11 angioectasias in this study. Rates of DPPB and rebleeding after CSA were 0 %. The rate of immediate bleeding during CSA was 27.3 % (3/11). Dilated capillaries could be observed pathologically in nine of 11 lesions (81.8 %). CSA was safe and can be a new treatment option in the future. To confirm our results and verify the long-term safety and efficacy of CSA, further studies are desirable.
Helper T Cell 17 and Regulatory T Cell Levels in Peripheral Blood of Newly Diagnosed Patients with Autoimmune Thyroid Disease: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chen Aizhi , Huang Liang , Zhang Liqin
Published: November 2022

This article aims to explore associated immune indicators of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) through a meta-analysis of published case-control studies on newly diagnosed AITD patients, intending to provide some suggestions for research on the mechanisms of AITD. Six electronic databases were searched for case-control studies on newly diagnosed AITD patients from inception to August 15, 2022. A random-effects model was used to calculate the standardized mean difference (SMD), odds ratio (OR), and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). A total of 26 articles were included in this meta-analysis. Patients with newly diagnosed AITD had higher levels of helper T cell 17 (Th17) (Hashimoto’s disease (HT): SMD=2.35, 95% CI: 1.98, 2.72; Graves’ disease (GD): SMD=1.61, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.98), lower levels of regulatory T cell (Treg) (HT: SMD=–2.04, 95% CI: –2.67, –1.42; GD: SMD=–1.35, 95% CI: –2.11, –0.58), and lower levels of forkhead box P3 (FoxP3) mRNA (HT: SMD=–2.58, 95% CI: –3.12, –2.05; GD: SMD=–2.13, 95% CI: –2.56, –1.70), compared to the healthy population. In addition, the single nucleotide polymorphism rs3761548 and rs3761549 in the promoter region of FoxP3 showed a higher frequency in the comparison of genotype “CT” only in HT patients than in the healthy population (OR=1.66, 95%CI: 1.18, 2.34). In patients with newly diagnosed AITD, the Th17/Treg ratio imbalance may develop AITD. Monitoring Th17 and Treg levels may become an essential tool to assess the organism’s immune homeostasis and hopefully guide clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Training service providers to work effectively with interpreters through educational videos
Authors: Hanft-Robert Saskia , Emch-Fassnacht Lena , Higgen Sanna , Pohontsch Nadine , Breitsprecher Christoph , Müller Michael , Mueller Jessica Terese , Mösko Mike
Published: November 2022

To ensure the quality of interpreter-mediated encounters, not only interpreters but also service providers need to be trained. However, most of them lack adequate training. This study aimed to evaluate educational videos as a (self-)learning tool with which to train service providers to work with interpreters. Eight educational videos were developed in a multi-stage evidence-based process. For the evaluation, semi-structured interviews with 32 service providers across settings and 12 experts in the field of interpreting were conducted in Switzerland and Germany. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using a structuring content analysis approach. Service providers described an increase in their knowledge (e.g. of the complexity of interpreter-mediated encounters, potential challenges, and how to deal with them appropriately) and confidence (e.g. reduced inhibitions about working with interpreters, perceived permission to feel insecure, and encouragement to deal with problematic situations in an interpreter-mediated encounter). However, the need for hands-on practice limits the effectiveness of the educational videos as a standalone (self-)learning tool, as noted in particular by the experts. It is recommended that they be used in combination with other methods, such as face-to-face training, which provide opportunities for hands-on practice. Nonetheless, the videos can be considered a low-threshold and initial (self-)learning tool with which to increase service providers’ competence in working with interpreters.
Reduction in and out of context
Authors: White Jonathan R.
Published: November 2022

This article investigates reduced language in academic textchat. Previous work has suggested that frequency and context play a role in whether items can be reduced. It is demonstrated that students reduce more depending on the pedagogical set-up of the course, in that more reduction took place when the teacher-less pre-seminars came early in the course. Also, it was clear that high frequency items are more subject to reduction. When the topic is clear, items salient in such a discussion can be reduced. Also, the linguistic context of a full form of an item means that subsequent mentions can be reduced. Technical items vary in their behavior, and can be reduced or not. Another main conclusion, though, is that individuals also vary, and, when the context allows for it, can choose to reduce or not.
The Nonsteroidal Mineralocorticoid-Receptor-Antagonist Finerenone in Cardiorenal Medicine: A State-of-the-Art Review of the Literature
Authors: Georgianos Panagiotis I , Agarwal Rajiv
Published: November 2022

Steroidal mineralocorticoid-receptor-antagonists (MRAs), such as spironolactone and eplerenone, are guideline-directed therapies in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction or resistant hypertension. However, the associated risk of hyperkalemia and hormonal side effects limit their broad use and downstream cardiorenal protection in high-risk patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and moderate-to-advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). The critical unmet need to improve long-term cardiorenal outcomes in such patients with CKD has sparked considerable efforts to the discovery and development of a new class of compounds. Finerenone is a novel, nonsteroidal MRA that has recently received regulatory approval with the indication of cardiorenal protection in patients with CKD associated with T2DM. Two landmark phase 3 clinical trials, FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD, demonstrated that among patients with T2DM and a broad spectrum of CKD, finerenone reduced the risk of “hard” cardiovascular and kidney failure outcomes as compared with placebo, with a minimal risk of hyperkalemia. Subgroup analyses of these trials also provided preliminary evidence that the efficacy and safety profile of finerenone was similar and irrespective of background therapy with other guideline-directed therapies, such as sodium-glucose co-transporter type 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and glucagone-like peptide 1 receptor agonists. Whether the combination of finerenone with a SGLT-2 inhibitor is more beneficial in patients with T2DM and CKD as compared with either therapy alone is a crucial research question that is currently under investigation in an ongoing clinical trial.
Long-range electric deterrents not as effective as personal deterrents for reducing risk of shark bite
Authors: Riley Madeline , Bradshaw Corey J A , Huveneers Charlie
Published: November 2022

While personal electric deterrents can reduce the risk of shark bites, evidence for the efficacy of other products is limited. We assessed two versions of a novel electric deterrent—80 and 150 volts (V)—designed to protect a large area (8 m deep × 6 m wide) or to be linked together for greater spatial coverage. We did 116 experimental trials on 43 white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) to assess: (a) percentage of baits taken; (b) distance between bait and shark; (c) number of passes; and (d) whether sharks reacted to the deterrent. The proportion of baits taken was reduced by 24% (80 V) and 48% (150 V), although the high variance of the effect coefficient precluded statistical differentiation. Only the 150-V deterrent increased the distance between bait and shark (control: 1.59 ± 0.28 m versus active deterrent: 3.33 ± 0.33 m), but both versions increased the likelihood of a reaction (average reaction distance: 1.88 ± 0.14 m). Results were similar whether we measured distances using stereo-cameras or estimated them in situ, suggesting that stereo-cameras might not be necessary to quantify distances between sharks and baits. Our findings provide more evidence that electric deterrents can reduce the risk of shark bite, but the restricted efficacy limits the suitability of this device.
The Meaning of Silence in Investment Treaties
Authors: Batifort Simon , Larkin Andrew
Published: November 2022

The ambiguity of key terms in investment treaties, such as ‘investment’, ‘fair and equitable treatment’ and ‘fair market value’, has been subject to extensive analysis. Less attention has been paid to the silence of investment treaties on numerous issues that routinely arise in practice. This article argues that treaty silence has played a critical role in the development of international investment law. It shows that arbitrators frequently adopt a creative approach to silence resulting in expansive interpretations, and argues that this approach stands in tension with several fundamental principles of public international law. The article concludes by highlighting considerations drawn from its analysis for arbitrators, treaty drafters and the international legal order.
Harish–Chandra Bimodules of Finite K-type in Deligne Categories
Authors: Utiralova Alexandra
Published: November 2022

We continue the study of Harish–Chandra bimodules in the setting of the Deligne categories $\operatorname {Rep}(G_{t})$ that we started in [17]. In this work, we construct a family of Harish–Chandra bimodules that generalize simple finite dimensional bimodules in the classical case. It turns out that they have finite $K$-type, which is a non-vacuous condition for the Harish–Chandra bimodules in $\operatorname {Rep}(G_{t})$. The full classification of (simple) finite $K$-type bimodules is yet unknown. This construction also yields some examples of central characters $\chi $ of the universal enveloping algebra $U(\mathfrak {g}_{t})$ for which the quotient $U_{\chi }$ is not simple, and, thereby, it allows us to partially solve Problem 3.23 posed in [10].
Queering Gender-Based Violence Scholarship: An Integrated Research Agenda
Authors: Loken Meredith , Hagen Jamie J
Published: November 2022

Research on armed conflict's gender dynamics has expanded significantly in the past decade. However, research in this field pays little attention to sexual orientation and gender identity. Moreover, where scholarship focused on violence against sexual and gender minority (SGM) individuals during war exists, it is largely divorced from work on gender-based violence (GBV) in conflict-related environments and from sexuality studies. In this article, we integrate these bodies of work and argue for the theoretical expansion of GBV as a conceptual, empirical, and analytic category to study and explain targeted attacks against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and otherwise queer individuals. We suggest two theoretical interventions to better equip existing GBV frameworks to explain violence perpetrated against SGM people. We argue, first, that violence targeting SGM communities is GBV, as sexuality and gender identity are integral components of gender, and second, that analyzing gender dynamics adds to our understanding of when, how, and why targeting SGM individuals composes part of an organization's regulatory “repertoire of violence.” We examine violence in Colombia's civil war as an illustrative application of our approach and we identify future, fruitful research avenues with important policy implications for studying and responding to GBV during war.
Automatic detection of deteriorated inverted-T patching using 3D laser imaging system based on a true story indiana
Authors: Liu Yang , Yang Guangwei , Wang Kelvin C P , Wang Guolong , Li Joshua , Nantung Tommy
Published: November 2022

Deteriorated Inverted-T patching can lead to uneven settlement, dip, or reflective transverse cracking on the asphalt overlay. This paper demonstrates a hybrid method to automatically detect deteriorated Inverted-T patching for an efficient maintenance schedule. First, hundreds of 2D/3D pavement images with deteriorated Inverted-T patching were manually identified and labelled from more than 400 miles of field data in Indiana. All data were collected through a high-speed 3D laser imaging system. Afterward, three deep learning architectures, including the Single Shot Detector network (SSD300), an advanced Region-based Convolutional Neural Network (Mask R-CNN), and a fast and precise convolutional network (U-Net), were applied to develop artificial intelligence models to identify deteriorated Inverted-T patching from 3D images. The results indicate that the Mask R-CNN model can achieve good detection accuracy only on the prepared testing images. Further, a hybrid deep learning model was developed to combine International Roughness Index (IRI) values and the corresponding 3D images to detect deteriorated Inverted-T patching. The hybrid method was promising and significantly improved the efficiency of locating deteriorated Inverted-T patching from network screening.
Analytical solution of cloaking in creeping flow inside composite porous media with simultaneous heat transfer
Authors: Yeung Woon-Shing , Hung Fu-Sui , Mai Van-Phung , Yang Ruey-Jen
Published: November 2022

This paper presents a theoretical analysis of steady-state creeping flow in a composite porous domain with coupling heat transfer. The problem arises in thermal cloaking studies in which it is desirable to hide an obstacle from the surrounding hydrodynamic and thermal fields, by suitably covering the obstacle with a cloak having specific material properties. The particular system under investigation consists of a porous composite region, with a thermal-hydro field driven by imposed temperature and pressure difference in the surrounding. Both two dimensional circular and three-dimensional axisymmetric spherical annuli are considered. Under the validity of Darcy law for a porous medium, an exact solution satisfying the continuity, momentum and energy equations at any Péclet number is derived. The analytical results have been numerically verified using the commercial code COMSOL.