bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bank risk‐taking in a mixed duopoly: The role of the state‐owned bank
Authors: Tseng Ping‐Lun , Guo Wen‐Chung
Published: September 2021

We analyze the role of a state‐owned bank, whose objective is to maximize social welfare, in a credit market with a mixed duopoly. The equilibrium reveals that the state‐owned bank is exposed to lower credit risk than the private bank. Furthermore, when the deposit rate is raised by the monetary authority, both banks exert socially beneficial higher monitoring efforts. In modified models, we explore the effects of the cost‐inefficiency and the political view of the state‐owned bank. Extensions on partial nationalization, mixed oligopoly with multiple private banks, and the case of loan differentiation with price competition are also discussed.
A Deeper Look at the Return on Purpose: Before and During a Crisis
Authors: Milano Greg , Whately Riley , Tomlinson Brian , Yiğit Alexa
Published: September 2021

The authors summarize findings from their research on how purpose relates to the profitability, growth, and value of public companies. Using a unique dataset that measures consumer perceptions of purpose at the brand level, the authors construct high‐ and low‐purpose cohorts for a population of public companies where a single brand accounts for a substantial majority of company revenues and value. In analyzing median performance of the high‐ and low‐purpose cohorts, the authors provide striking evidence of the relationship of purpose to improved financial performance, market valuation and shareholder value creation.

In addition, by measuring cohort performance over the three years ending 2019 and on a quarterly basis during 2020, the authors create a picture of how high‐purpose companies materially increased their performance, valuation, and value creation advantage over low‐purpose companies in response to the market disruption and recovery caused by COVID. Among the most notable findings, the high‐purpose cohort's revenue growth advantage increased from 2.5% pre‐COVID to 14.1%; operating margin advantage increased from 5.2% pre‐COVID to 7.7%; return on capital advantage increased from 3.0% pre‐COVID to 5.8%; EV/EBITDA premium increased from 3.2x to 6.2x; and annualized TSR advantage increased from 13.3% to 34.7%.

The authors complement these findings with a regression analysis that evaluates the explanatory power of purpose on market valuations for the study population while controlling for a range of financial performance variables and select sector designations. They find that a 1‐unit increase in purpose (on a scale of 0 to 100), is associated with a 1.2% increase in valuation. For the median S&P 500 company by revenue and valuation, this suggests that improving from a median score on purpose to a top‐quartile score could be worth an incremental $9.2 billion in shareholder value.

The authors conclude by placing these findings in context of the current debate on the role of purpose in public corporations and provide guidance on how they can be applied in practice to improve both stakeholder value and shareholder value.
Effects of tooth bleaching protocols assisted by Er,Cr:YSGG and diode (980 nm) lasers on color change of resin‐based restoratives
Authors: Karanasiou Christina , Dionysopoulos Dimitrios , Naka Olga , Strakas Dimitris , Tolidis Kosmas
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate color change of three resin‐based restorative materials after two laser‐assisted in‐office tooth bleaching protocols using Er,Cr:YSGG and diode (980 nm) lasers.

Materials and Methods

A nanohybrid composite resin (EP), a Bis‐GMA free composite resin (EPBio) and a resin‐matrix CAD‐CAM ceramic (HC) were tested. Ninety specimens were prepared and stored in artificial saliva. Group 1 received an in‐office bleaching treatment using 40% H2O2. The same bleaching procedure was assisted by Er,Cr:YSGG laser in Group 2 and by a diode laser (980 nm) in Group 3. Color measurements were performed using a double‐beam UV–Vis spectrophotometer at four time intervals (before, 24 h, 15 and 30 days), converted to L*, a*, and b* units of the CIELAB color space and assessed on the basis of 50:50% acceptability (ΔΕab* = 2.7 and ΔΕ00 = 1.77) and 50:50% perceptibility (ΔΕab* = 1.2 and ΔΕ00 = 0.81) thresholds. Three‐way ANOVA with repeated measurements was used for statistical analysis of the data.

Results

Color and whiteness changes did not exceed the established 50:50% acceptability thresholds. EP presented the highest color change after the bleaching followed by EPBio and HC (p ≤ 0.05). Three‐way ANOVA revealed that type of material and time interval significantly affected color change (p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

The tested bleaching treatments assisted by Er,Cr:YSGG and diode (980 nm) lasers did not induce unacceptable color and whiteness changes in the resin‐based restorative materials.

Clinical Significance

The tested Er,Cr:YSGG and diode (980 nm) laser‐assisted tooth bleaching protocols which may be recommended to accelerate the clinical procedures cannot affect the color of the existing resin‐based restorations in case they are accidentally exposed on the bleaching gel and laser irradiation.
Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry analyses of ancient bronze artefacts of the Urartian period from Yegheghnadzor region, Armenia
Authors: Keheyan Yeghis , Lanterna Giancarlo
Published: September 2021

The results of the analysis on some fragments of bronze belts and a bowl discovered from southwestern Armenia, Yegheghnadzor archaeological site, are discussed. The samples are dated to the 7 and 6 BCE from the Urartian period. The artefacts were corroded, and a multilayer structure was formed. To study the stratigraphy of layers and their composition, the samples were analysed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry (scanning electron microscopy (SEM)‐EDS) and optical microscopy techniques. The bronze finds appear with the typical incrustations, rich in alloy alteration compounds. Concentrations of copper and tin in the alloys were quantified by SEM‐EDS: The pattern and the percentage of the alloy are the same for the belts. Regarding the bowl sample, it is constituted by two foils, perfectly in contact but different in colour, thickness and composition. The results evidenced that only two elements participate in forming alloy composition in the samples: Cu and Sn. The tin content is variable from 7.75% to 13.56%. Other elements such as Ag, As, Fe, Ni, P, Pb, Sb and Zn are lower and more than 1% and can be considered as impurities.
Nerve pathology in animal models of neuropathies
Authors: Carozzi Valentina Alda , Bolino Alessandra , D'Antonio Maurizio , Quattrini Angelo , Cavaletti Guido
Published: September 2021

To understand the pathology of axonal degeneration and demyelination in peripheral neuropathy, histological investigations in different animal models that mimic some aspects of human peripheral neuropathy are needed. Thus, in the following section of this special issue, the main pathological features of experimental autoimmune neuritis, animal models of chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropath and of human inherited peripheral neuropathies (IPNs) will be illustrated. When possible, micrographs from animal models and selected human biopsy will be shown side by side.
Hereditary neuropathies: A pathological perspective
Authors: Cavallaro Tiziana , Tagliapietra Matteo , Fabrizi Gian Maria , Bai Yunhong , Shy Michael E. , Vallat Jean‐Michel
Published: September 2021

Hereditary neuropathies may result from mutations in genes expressed by Schwann cells or neurons that affect selectively the peripheral nervous system (PNS) or may represent a minor or major component of complex inherited diseases that involve also the central nervous system and/or other organs and tissues. The chapter is constantly expanding and reworking, thanks to advances of molecular genetics; next‐generation sequencing is identifying a plethora of new genes and is revolutionizing the diagnostic approach. In the past, diagnostic sural nerve biopsies paved the way to the discovery and elucidation of major genes and molecular pathways associated to most frequent hereditary motor–sensory neuropathies. Nowadays, a sural nerve biopsy may prove useful in selected cases for the differential diagnosis of an acquired neuropathy when clinical examination, nerve conduction studies, and molecular tests are not sufficiently informative. Skin biopsy has emerged as a minimally invasive window on the PNS, which may provide biomarkers of progression and clues to the physiopathology and molecular pathology of inherited neuropathies. The aim of our review is to illustrate the pathological features of more frequent and paradigmatic hereditary neuropathies and to highlight their correlations with the roles of the involved genes and functional consequences of related molecular defects.
Effect of electromyography‐triggered peripheral magnetic stimulation on voluntary swallow in healthy humans
Authors: Nagashima Yuki , Kagaya Hitoshi , Toda Fumi , Aoyagi Yoichiro , Shibata Seiko , Saitoh Eiichi , Abe Kimiko , Nakayama Enri , Ueda Koichiro
Published: September 2021

Background

Electrical stimulation therapy is effective for patients with dysphagia. However, because of the pain, strong stimulation cannot be applied. Although magnetic stimulation induces less pain, there are no reports on magnetic stimulation being synchronised with a swallowing reflex.

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether it is possible to induce magnetic stimulation during a voluntary swallowing using electromyography (EMG)‐triggered peripheral magnetic stimulation and to evaluate its effect on healthy individuals.

Methods

A total of 20 healthy adults in seated position were instructed to swallow saliva and 10 ml of barium under videofluoroscopy. For concomitant use of magnetic stimulation, a magnetic stimulus for suprahyoid muscles at 30 Hz frequency was applied for 2 s when the EMG level in the sternohyoid muscle exceeded the threshold. During the voluntary swallowing, the movement of the hyoid bone and opening width of the upper oesophageal sphincter (UES) were measured. Furthermore, pressure topography was evaluated in 6 subjects using high‐resolution manometry.

Results

The magnetic stimulation significantly extended the movement time of the hyoid bone (p < 0.001). During liquid deglutition, significant increases were observed in the anterior maximum movement distance of the hyoid bone (p < 0.05), opening width of the UES (p < 0.001) and anterior movement distance of the hyoid bone at the maximum UES opening (p < 0.01). In the pressure topography, the maximum pressure immediately after UES closure significantly decreased with magnetic stimulation (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

EMG‐triggered peripheral magnetic stimulation made it possible to apply magnetic stimulation during a voluntary swallowing.
Management of patients explanted for implantable cardioverter defibrillator infections: Bridge therapy with external temporary ICD
Authors: Dell'Era Gabriele , Prenna Eleonora , Ziacchi Matteo , Diemberger Igor , Varalda Marco , Guerra Federico , Biffi Mauro , Occhetta Eraldo , Patti Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

Aims and methods

In case of cardiacimplantable electronicdevice (CIED)‐related infections, it is mandatory to completely remove the device and administer prolonged antibiotic therapy. The management of patients explanted for an implantable defibrillator (ICD) infection is complex especially in patients needing anti‐bradycardia pacing or tachyarrhythmia protection. We tested the efficacy and safety of a conventional ICD externally connected to a transvenous dual‐coil lead as bridging therapy before the reimplant, comparing outcomes with a historical cohort of patients (N = 113) treated with temporary transvenous pacing. We enrolled 18 patients explanted for ICD infection and needing prolonged antibiotic therapy in three high‐volume Italian centers. They received an external ICD stand‐by for a mean of 16.5 (4–30) days before the reimplant.

Results

No patient experienced malfunction of the system, with a significant reduction of this complication versus temporary transfemoral pacing (37%, p = .004). Post‐procedural occurrence of other complications (infection, relevant local bleeding, ventricular tachycardia during insertion of the lead, cardiac perforation, and venous thromboembolism) was low and not different in the two groups. One patient experienced an electrical storm, effectively recognized by the external ICD and treated with anti‐tachycardia pacings (ATPs) and shocks.

Conclusions

An approach with an external ICD seems to be a safe and viable option as bridging therapy in patients requiring ICD explant for CIED infection.
Delta QRS distinguishes Ito‐mediated J waves from pseudo J waves produced by conduction delay on body surface electrocardiographic
Authors: Ooi Yinn Shaung , Amer Mostafa , Qi Datun , Yang Zhen , Gao Chuanyu , Yan Gan‐Xin
Published: September 2021

Background

On surface electrocardiographic (ECGs), it is difficult to differentiate Ito‐mediated J waves, a repolarization phenomenon seen in J wave syndromes (JWS) from terminal QRS deflections that mimic J waves (pseudo J waves) in intraventricular conduction delay (IVCD), an abnormality in depolarization. We hypothesize that the difference between the “maximum QRS duration” inclusive of J point or terminal QRS deflections and the minimum QRS duration identified across a 12‐lead ECG is significantly larger in Ito‐mediated J waves, and can serve as a marker to make this distinction.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on adults with ECGs consisting of one of the four following manifestations: J waves associated with hypothermia and early repolarization, and pseudo J waves associated with right bundle branch block (RBBB) and non‐specific intraventricular conduction delay (NS‐IVCD). All ECGs were assessed individually and the maximum and minimum discrete QRS deflections on 12‐lead tracings, defined as “QRSmax” and QRSmin, were identified. The difference between “QRSmax” and QRSmin, designated as ∆QRS, was calculated and compared across the studied populations.

Results

A total of 60 patients consisting of 15 patients in each arm were included in the study. ΔQRS was significantly larger in the hypothermia and early repolarization groups, compared to RBBB and NS‐IVCD (p < .0001), with the following mean ∆QRS: hypothermia 54.3 ± 13.7 ms, early repolarization pattern 47.3 ± 15.3 ms, RBBB 19.3 ± 6.5 ms, and NS‐IVCD 16.0 ± 6.6 ms.

Conclusion

∆QRS may serve as a reliable ECG parameter for distinguishing Ito‐mediated J waves from pseudo J waves produced by delayed intraventricular conduction.
Psychological factors and trajectories of post‐surgical pain: A longitudinal prospective study
Authors: Giusti Emanuele M. , Lacerenza Marco , Gabrielli Samantha , Manzoni Gian Mauro , Manna Chiara , D’Amario Federico , Marcacci Maurilio , Castelnuovo Gianluca
Published: September 2021

A significant proportion of patients do not experience relief from pain during the early postsurgical period after joint arthroplasty and are at risk for developing chronic pain. The objectives of this study were to identify biopsychosocial factors associated with acute postsurgical pain trajectories and with pain intensity and interference after 1, 3, and 12 months. Two hundred ten patients listed for joint arthroplasty filled a presurgical battery of questionnaires assessing presurgical pain intensity, catastrophizing, emotional distress, state anxiety and depression, self‐efficacy, central sensitization, and executive functions. From the day after surgery, they were asked to fill a 7‐day diary, including questions about postsurgical pain and postsurgical state catastrophizing. Finally, they provided data about pain intensity and interference after 1, 3, and 12 months. Predictors of acute pain trajectories were investigated using multilevel growth curve analysis. Results showed that central sensitization was a predictor of the intercept of pain trajectories and daily postsurgical catastrophizing was a significant covariate of pain intensity in the acute phase. Analyses of follow‐up data showed that central sensitization was a predictor of pain intensity and pain interference at 3 and 12 months, that emotional distress was related with pain intensity and interference at 1 month, and with pain interference at 3 months, and that cognitive flexibility was associated with pain interference at 1 month. Assessment of these factors could enable to identify patients at risk for worse outcomes and to plan targeted treatments to be implemented during the patient’s inward stay.
RGN1 controls grain number and shapes panicle architecture in rice
Authors: Li Gangling , Xu Bingxia , Zhang Yanpei , Xu Yawen , Khan Najeeb Ullah , Xie Jianyin , Sun Xingming , Guo Haifeng , Wu Zhenyuan , Wang Xueqiang , Zhang Hongliang , Li Jinjie , Xu Jianlong , Wang Wensheng , Zhang Zhanying , Li Zichao
Published: September 2021

Yield in rice is determined mainly by panicle architecture. Using map‐based cloning, we identified an R2R3 MYB transcription factor REGULATOR OF GRAIN NUMBER1 (RGN1) affecting grain number and panicle architecture. Mutation of RGN1 caused an absence of lateral grains on secondary branches. We demonstrated that RGN1 controls lateral grain formation by regulation of LONELY GUY (LOG) expression, thus controlling grain number and shaping panicle architecture. A novel favourable allele, RGN1C, derived from the Or‐I group in wild rice affected panicle architecture by means longer panicles. Identification of RGN1 provides a theoretical basis for understanding the molecular mechanism of lateral grain formation in rice; RGN1 will be an important gene resource for molecular breeding for higher yield.
Continuing arteriovenous fistula creation by nephrologist and its outcome during COVID pandemic—Analysis of 376 cases
Authors: Mahapatra Himansu Sekhar , Binoy Renju , Inamdar Neeraj Anant , D P Kushal , Kumar Adarsh , Kaur Navjot , Singh Mansi , Kumari Anamika , Krishna Chandra , Balkrishna Muthukumar , Pursnani Lalit
Published: September 2021

There has been a significant reduction of elective surgeries including creation of arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) during the ongoing pandemic by the surgeons. Here, we report the retrospective observational data of AVF creation by nephrologists in a single center, during a period of 8 months. A total of 376 fistulae were created in 310 patients. Patients were followed up at 2, 6, and 12 weeks. Twenty‐eight patients required fistula creation twice, 16 patients thrice, and two patients underwent fistula creation four times. Of the total, 259 (68.8%) fistulae were radio‐cephalic while 99 (26.3%) and 18 (4.79%) were brachio‐cephalic and brachio‐basilic, respectively. A total of 207 (67%) patients were already on hemodialysis whereas 103 (33%) were planned for elective initiation after fistula maturation. Of the 211 (69%) patients who completed 3 months of follow‐up, 31 (15%) expired and 7 (3.3%) were lost to follow‐up. Primary failure was observed in 70 (33.2%) fistulae. Fifteen (7.1%) patients were noted to be COVID positive during the follow‐up. A total of 279 (90%) patients were alive at last follow‐up. Amongst 20 dialysis staffs with 10 nephrologists, only two have developed COVID. Both were having mild illness and recovered completely. This study demonstrates that AVF creation can be performed safely with careful screening and by using adequate personal protective equipment.
Contamination of Urban Watersheds: the Case of Arroio Moinho, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues Bruna Bonfim , Mizusaki Ana Maria Pimentel , Menegat Rualdo , De Figueiredo Anderson Ribeiro , Galligan Teddi Ann , Portella Manoela Brum Poitevin
Published: September 2021

This article aims to analyze the contamination of water and bottom sediment at Arroio Moinho (Mill Stream), in Porto Alegre (Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil). From two sample collections, a series of diagnostic measurements were carried out, such as: a) physical-chemical and biological analysis of the water; b) water quality index (WQI); c) metal contamination, granulometric and mineralogical analyses of the bottom sediment; d) total organic carbon (TOC); e) categorization into water quality classes; f) contamination factor (CF) and geoaccumulation index (Igeo) geoindicators; g) analysis of per capita income and population density. The analytical results of the water at the two sample locations exceeded the limits established by Class 4 (restricted use). The WQI revealed the worst level (very bad in 2012 and bad in 2018) at all sampling points. The bottom sediment analysis showed that the spring has a low fine-grained fraction content (3%) and TOC levels between 8 and 17%. However, the sediments revealed high levels of metals such as Zn and Cu and low to moderate Pb levels. These results allowed the stream to be classified as Class 3 in terms of soil quality, requiring identification of the source of the pollution and ongoing inspection to monitor contamination.
REVIEWS OF ACOUSTICAL PATENTS
Authors: Fulop Sean A.
Published: September 2021

The purpose of these acoustical patent reviews is to provide enough information for a Journal reader to decide whether to seek more information from the patent itself. Any opinions expressed here are those of the reviewers as individuals and are not legal opinions. Patents are available via the internet at the USPTO website.
Clinical Walking Tests and Gait Pattern Characterization During 6-Minute Walk Test Using Inertial Sensors: Follow-Up in Individuals With Lower Limb Amputation
Authors: Younesian Hananeh , Legrand Thomas , Miramand Ludovic , Beausoleil Sarah , Turcot Katia
Published: September 2021

Inertial measurement units and normative values enable clinicians to quantify clinical walking tests and set rehabilitation goals. Objectives of this study were (1) to compare time- and distance-based walking tests in individuals with lower limb amputation (iLLA) and normative values following rehabilitation discharge (T1) and 6 weeks after discharge (T2) and (2) to investigate spatiotemporal and foot kinematic parameters over a 6-minute walk test using inertial measurement units. Twelve iLLA participated in this study. Distance, cadence, stance ratio, loading rate ratio, push-up ratio, path length, and minimum toe clearance were analyzed during 6-minute walk test. Nonparametric repeated-measures analysis of variance tests, Bonferroni corrections, were performed. Time of distance-based walking tests diminished at T2 (P < .02). Compared with normative values, walking performance in iLLA was reduced. Cadence at T2 increased significantly (P = .026). Stance ratio increased in both legs at T2 (P < .05). Push-up ratio tended to decrease at T2 in the amputated leg (P = .0003). Variability of path length and minimum toe clearance at T2 were less than at T1 in the nonamputated leg (P < .05). Spatiotemporal improvement at T2 could be due to prosthesis adaptation in iLLA. The lower performance of the functional walk test compared with normative values could be due to amputation and pain-related fatigue.
Pendellösung interferometry probes the neutron charge radius, lattice dynamics, and fifth forces
Authors: Heacock Benjamin , Fujiie Takuhiro , Haun Robert W. , Henins Albert , Hirota Katsuya , Hosobata Takuya , Huber Michael G. , Kitaguchi Masaaki , Pushin Dmitry A. , Shimizu Hirohiko , Takeda Masahiro , Valdillez Robert , Yamagata Yutaka , Young Albert R.
Published: September 2021

Setting bounds on a fifth force

Some extensions to the Standard Model of particle physics posit the existence of a fifth force to complement the existing four fundamental forces. To set bounds on the strength of such an interaction, experiments on vastly different length scales have been performed. Heacock
et al
. used an unusual method called Pendellösung interferometry to measure the neutron structure factors of silicon. The momentum dependence of the structure factors enabled the researchers to put more stringent bounds on the strength of a type of fifth force called the Yukawa force, as well as measure the charge radius of the neutron. —JS
Correlated electron-hole state in twisted double-bilayer graphene
Authors: Rickhaus Peter , de Vries Folkert K. , Zhu Jihang , Portoles Elías , Zheng Giulia , Masseroni Michele , Kurzmann Annika , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , MacDonald Allan H. , Ihn Thomas , Ensslin Klaus
Published: September 2021

Fermi nesting

Correlated states have been shown to emerge in bilayer and trilayer graphene with the two-dimensional layers at just the right angle with respect to each other. Key to the enhanced importance of interactions are the so-called moiré electronic bands that form in such systems. Rickhaus
et al
. explored a related system of two graphene bilayers twisted with respect to each other. The twist angle was set so that the layer coupling was strong enough to form moiré bands but weak enough for the carrier concentration in the top and bottom bilayer to be controlled separately. Doping the top bilayer with electrons and the bottom bilayer with holes, the researchers created a correlated state with nested Fermi surfaces. —JS
How farming shaped Europeans’ immunity
Authors: Gibbons Ann
Published: September 2021

Ancient farmers throttled their immune responses to help survive infectious diseases
Chromosome-Scale Assembly of the Complete Genome Sequence of Leishmania (Mundinia) enriettii, Isolate CUR178, Strain LV763
Authors: Almutairi Hatim , Urbaniak Michael D. , Bates Michelle D. , Thomaz-Soccol Vanete , Al-Salem Waleed S. , Dillon Rod J. , Bates Paul A. , Gatherer Derek
Published: September 2021

Leishmania
(Mundinia) enriettii
is a parasitic kinetoplastid first isolated from a guinea pig in Brazil in 1946. We present the complete genome sequence of
L.
(
M.
)
enriettii
isolate CUR178 strain LV763, sequenced using combined short-read and long-read technologies. This will facilitate a greater understanding of the genome diversity within
L.
(
M.
)
enriettii
.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Salegentibacter
sp. Strain BDJ18, a Plankton-Associated Bacterium in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean
Authors: McDermith Emily J. , Sterling Alexa R. , Bertin Matthew J. , Jenkins Bethany D.
Published: September 2021

Salegentibacter
sp. strain BDJ18 was isolated from a plankton-associated seawater sample from the northeast Atlantic Ocean. We report its draft genome assembly, which includes genes potentially important for microbial interactions in the marine environment.
Paediatric sickle cell disease at a tertiary hospital in Malawi: a retrospective cross-sectional study
Authors: Chimbatata Chikondi Sharon , Chisale Master RO , Kayira Alfred Bornwell , Sinyiza Frank Watson , Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe , Kaseka Paul Uchizi , Kamudumuli Pocha , Wu Tsung-Shu Joseph
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) remains a major cause of childhood mortality and morbidity in Malawi. However, literature to comprehensively describe the disease in the paediatric population is lacking.

Methods

A retrospective review of clinical files of children with SCD was conducted. Descriptive statistics were performed to summarise the data. χ2 or Fisher’s exact test was used to look for significant associations between predictor variables and outcome variables (case fatality and length of hospital stay). Predictor variables that were significantly associated with outcome variables (p≤0.05) in a χ2 or Fisher’s exact test were carried forward for analysis in a binary logistic regression. A multivariable binary logistic regression was used to identify covariates that independently predicted length of hospital stay.

Results

There were 16 333 paediatric hospitalisations during the study period. Of these, 512 were patients with SCD representing 3.1% (95% CI: 2.9%- 3.4%). Sixty-eight of the 512 children (13.3%; 95% CI: 10.5% - 16.5%) were newly diagnosed cases. Of these, only 13.2% (95% CI: 6.2% - 23.6%) were diagnosed in infancy. Anaemia (94.1%), sepsis (79.5%) and painful crisis (54.3%) were the most recorded clinical features. The mean values of haematological parameters were as follows: haemoglobin (g/dL) 6.4 (SD=1.9), platelets (×109/L) 358.8 (SD=200.9) while median value for white cell count (×109/L) was 23.5 (IQR: 18.0–31.2). Case fatality was 1.4% (95% CI: 0.6% - 2.8%)and 15.2% (95% CI: 12.2% -18.6%) of the children had a prolonged hospital stay (>5 days). Patients with painful crisis were 1.7 (95% CI: 1.02 - 2.86) times more likely to have prolonged hospital stay than those without the complication.

Conclusion

Anaemia, sepsis and painful crisis were the most common clinical features paediatric patients with SCD presented with. Patients with painful crisis were more likely to have prolonged hospital stay. Delayed diagnosis of SCD is a problem that needs immediate attention in this setting. Although somewhat encouraging, the relatively low in-hospital mortality among SCD children may under-report the true mortality from the disease considering community deaths and deaths occurring before SCD diagnosis is made.
Supersymmetric Janus solutions in $$\omega $$-deformed $$N=8$$ gauged supergravity
Authors: Karndumri Parinya , Maneerat Chawakorn
Published: September 2021

We give a large class of supersymmetric Janus solutions in $$\omega $$
ω
-deformed (dyonic) SO(8) maximal gauged supergravity with $$\omega =\frac{\pi }{8}$$

ω
=

π
8

. Unlike the purely electric counterpart, the dyonic SO(8) gauged supergravity exhibits a richer structure of $$AdS_4$$

A
d

S
4

vacua with $$N=8,2,1,1$$

N
=
8
,
2
,
1
,
1

supersymmetries and SO(8), U(3), $$G_2$$

G
2

and SU(3) symmetries, respectively. Similarly, domain walls interpolating among these critical points show a very rich structure as well. In this paper, we show that this gauged supergravity also accommodates a number of interesting supersymmetric Janus solutions in the form of $$AdS_3$$

A
d

S
3

-sliced domain walls asymptotically interpolating between the aforementioned $$AdS_4$$

A
d

S
4

geometries. These solutions could be holographically interpreted as two-dimensional conformal defects within the superconformal field theories (SCFTs) of ABJM type dual to the $$AdS_4$$

A
d

S
4

vacua. We also give a class of solutions interpolating among the SO(8), $$G_2$$

G
2

and U(3) $$AdS_4$$

A
d

S
4

vacua in the case of $$\omega =0$$

ω
=
0

which have not previously appeared in the presently known Janus solutions of electric SO(8) gauged supergravity.
The new $$(g-2)_\mu $$ result and the $$\mu \nu $$SSM
Authors: Heinemeyer Sven , Kpatcha Essodjolo , Lara Iñaki , López-Fogliani Daniel E. , Muñoz Carlos , Nagata Natsumi
Published: September 2021

The $$\mu \nu \mathrm {SSM}$$

μ
ν
SSM

is a highly predictive alternative model to the MSSM. In particular, the electroweak sector of the model can explain the longstanding discrepancy between the experimental result for the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, $$(g-2)_\mu $$

(
g
-
2
)

μ

, and its Standard Model prediction, while being in agreement with all other theoretical and experimental constraints. The recently published MUON G-2 result is within $${0.8}\,\sigma $$

0.8

σ

in agreement with the older BNL result on $$(g-2)_\mu $$

(
g
-
2
)

μ

. The combined result was announced as $$a_\mu ^{\mathrm{exp}} = (11 659 {206.1}\pm {4.1}) \times 10^{-10}$$

a
μ
exp

=

(
11659

206.1

±

4.1

)

×

10

-
10

, yielding a new deviation from the Standard Model prediction of $$\Delta a_\mu = ({25.1}\pm {5.9}) \times 10^{-10}$$

Δ

a
μ

=

(

25.1

±

5.9

)

×

10

-
10

, corresponding to $${4.2}\,\sigma $$

4.2

σ

. Using this improved bound we update the analysis in the $$\mu \nu \mathrm {SSM}$$

μ
ν
SSM

as presented in Kpatcha et al. (Eur Phys J C 81(2):154. arXiv:1912.04163 [hep-ph], 2021) and set new limits on the allowed parameters space of the electroweak sector of the model. We conclude that significant regions of the model can explain the new $$(g-2)_\mu $$

(
g
-
2
)

μ

data.
Effects of polymorphic form and particle size of SiO2fillers on the properties of SiO2–PEEK composites
Authors: Xue Peng Jie , Liu Shi Lin , Bian Jian Jiang
Published: September 2021

The effects of polymorphic form and particle size of SiO2fillers on the dielectric, mechanical and thermal properties of SiO2–Polyetheretherketone (SiO2–PEEK) composites were investigated in this paper. Strong low frequency (<10Hz) Debye-like dielectric dispersions could be observed for all samples. The dielectric permittivity at high frequencies of the composite exhibits little morphology or particle size-sensitive characteristics of the SiO2fillers. All the composites obtained in this case demonstrate the dielectric permittivities of [Formula: see text] at high frequencies. The crystalline [Formula: see text]-cristobalite filled composite exhibits lower dielectric loss and mechanical strength, but larger thermal expansion coefficient and thermal conductivity, compared with the similar particle sized amorphous SiO2filled one. The crystalline [Formula: see text]-quartz filled composite demonstrates the lowest mechanical strength and highest dielectric loss. An increase in particle size of the spherical fused silica fillers decreases the dielectric loss, while increases the thermal conductivity of the composite. The flexural strength of the composite reaches the maximum value of 113 MPa when the particle size of spherical SiO2filler is [Formula: see text]m. Particle packing by combining optimal amounts of differently sized spherical fused silica fillers leads to a substantial improvement of mechanical strength (153MPa) coupled with reasonable dielectric and thermal properties due to the synergic effect (dielectric permittivity ([Formula: see text] = 3.35, dielectric loss (tan[Formula: see text] @10 GHz, thermal conductivity ([Formula: see text] = 0.74 W/m*k ([Formula: see text]C), coefficient of thermal expansion ([Formula: see text]C and relative density ([Formula: see text]) = 99.72%).
Quantitative study of lecture attendance and the association between this attendance and academic outcomes for nursing and nonnursing students in an introductory pathophysiology course
Authors: Doggrell Sheila A.
Published: September 2021

Since the availability of lecture recordings, there have been limited studies of any associations between face-to-face lecture attendance and academic outcomes. The aims of the study, in an introductory pathophysiology course, where lecture recordings were available, were 1) to quantify lecture attendance and any associations between academic outcomes and lecture attendance, and 2) to determine why students do or do not attend lectures. Data were analyzed for the whole cohort before separating the nursing (∼60%) and nonnursing students. Of 288 enrolled students, 205 consented to sign the attendance register, and 139 to undertake the online survey. Lecture attendance was higher (41%) before the midsemester exam than afterwards (24%), P < 0.001, due to higher attendance by the nursing than nonnursing students. Students who attended ≥50% of lectures consistently got higher academic outcomes than those that attended <50%, e.g., examinations, 11 percent points higher. Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation coefficients for students from both the sign-in and survey showed that there were positive associations between lecture attendance and academic outcomes, which were mainly weak for nursing students ( P ≤ 0.05), with no association for nonnursing students. From the survey, most students who attended lectures did so because they considered they learned more by attending lectures, whereas not liking the lecture time was the most common reason for not attending lectures. In conclusion, even though students have access to lecture recordings, lecture attendance is still a determinant of academic outcomes for some students of pathophysiology.
Teaching bioelectricity and neurophysiology to medical students using LabAXON simulations
Authors: Monteiro Olivia , Bhaskar Anand , Wong Io Nam , Ng Anna K. M. , Baptista-Hon Daniel T.
Published: September 2021

Patch-clamp electrophysiological recordings of neuronal activity require a large amount of space and equipment. The technique is difficult to master and not conducive to demonstration to more than a few medical students. Therefore, neurophysiological education is mostly limited to classroom-based pedagogies such as lectures. However, the demonstration of concepts such as changes in membrane potential and ion channel activity is best achieved with hands-on approaches. This article details an in silico activity suitable for large groups of medical students that demonstrates the key concepts in neurophysiology using the LabAXON simulation software. Learning activities in our practical include 1) measurements of voltage and time parameters of the neuronal action potential and its relationship to the Nernst potentials of Na+ and K+; 2) determination of the stimulus threshold to evoke action potentials; 3) demonstration of the refractory period of an action potential; and 4) voltage-clamp experiments to determine the current-voltage relationship of voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels and the voltage dependence of, and recovery from, inactivation of voltage-gated Na+ channels. We emphasized the accuracy of quantitative measurements as well as the correct use of units. The level of difficulty of the activity can be altered through different multiple choice questions relating to material introduced in the associated lectures. This practical activity is suitable for different class sizes and is adaptable for delivery with online platforms. Student feedback showed that the students felt the activity helped them consolidate their understanding of the lecture material.
Perspectives Against Racism: educational and socialization efforts at the departmental level
Authors: Souza-Smith Flavia M. , Albrechet-Souza Lucas , Avegno Elizabeth M. , Ball Chloe D. , Ferguson Tekeda F. , Harrison-Bernard Lisa M. , Molina Patricia E.
Published: September 2021

The current heightened social awareness and anxiety triggered by escalating violence against Black Americans in the United States demands a safe space for reflection, education, and civil discourse within the academic setting. Too often there is an unmet need paired with a collective urgent desire to better understand the chronic existing structural, social, educational, and health inequities affecting disadvantaged populations, particularly Black Americans. In this perspective, the authors provide insight into a shared learning approach that provided a forum to discuss Perspectives Against Racism (PAR). Unlike existing top-down approaches, faculty, trainees, and staff were engaged in leading a series of focused discussions to examine unconscious bias, promote awareness of implicit biases, and reflect on individual and collective roles and responsibilities in working toward becoming antiracist. An existing 1-h graduate elective seminar course was dedicated to creating a space for learning, discussion, and exchange of ideas related to the experience and existence of racism (personal and institutional/systemic). A goal of each session was to go beyond didactics and identify mechanisms to implement change, at the level of the individual, department, and institution. This perspective of the shared experience may provide an adaptable framework that can be implemented in an academic setting at the departmental, center, or institutional level.
Numerical Study of Heat Transfer and Optimum Design for Trench Laying Cables with Ceramic Plates
Authors: Fu Chen-Zhao , Si Wen-Rong , Yang Duo , Yang Jian
Published: September 2021

Trench laying cables are often used at inlet and outlet regions of a power distribution cabinet. In order to improve the heat transfer performance and extend service life of a trench laying cable, the heat transfer and cable ampacity of the trench laying cable with a ceramic plate were numerically studied in the present paper and the results were compared with those of a traditional trench laying cable. The variations of conductor loss and eddy current loss of different loop cables were discussed in the trench with a ceramic plate, and the effects of ceramic plate parameters on heat transfer performance of the trench laying cable were optimized using the Taguchi method. It is found that for the trench with ceramic plates, although the ceramic plate restrains the natural convection in the trench, the total heat transfer for natural convection and thermal radiation are enhanced for the cables and the cable ampacity can be improved. The difference of electromagnetic loss between the upper- and lower-layer cables in the trench with ceramic plate is quite small. When the cable core current (I) increases from 700 A to 1100 A, the maximum difference of averaged electromagnetic loss between the upper- and lower-layer cables is 1.22%. With the Taguchi method, an optimum parameter combination is obtained. When the length, thickness, and surface emissivity of the ceramic plate are equal to 0.48 m, 0.0734 m, and 0.8, respectively, at I = 900 A, the cable maximum temperature in the trench is the lowest.
Research on Intelligent Compaction Technology of Subgrade Based on Regression Analysis
Authors: Hou Ziyi , Dang Xiao , Yuan Yezhen , Tian Bo , Li Sili
Published: September 2021

A remote monitoring system with the intelligent compaction index CMV as the core is designed and developed to address the shortcomings of traditional subgrade compaction quality evaluation methods. Based on the actual project, the correlation between the CMV and conventional compaction indexes of compaction degree K and dynamic resilient modulus E is investigated by applying the one‐dimensional linear regression equation for three types of subgrade fillers, clayey gravel, pulverized gravel, and soil‐rock mixed fill, and the scheme of fitting CMV to the mean value of conventional indexes is adopted, which is compared with the scheme of fitting CMV to the single point of conventional indexes in the existing specification. The test results show that the correlation between the CMV and conventional indexes of clayey gravel and pulverized gravel is much stronger than that of soil‐rock mixed subgrades, and the correlation coefficient can be significantly improved by fitting CMV to the mean of conventional indexes compared with single‐point fitting, which can be considered as a new method for intelligent rolling correlation verification.
Designation and Multiobjective Optimization of a New Six‐DOF Haptic Device Based on Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Shi Baoyu , Wu Hongtao
Published: September 2021

This paper focuses on designation and multiobjective optimization of a new haptic device. A new six‐DOF hybrid haptic device has been designed combining series mechanism 3PRPaR and parallel mechanism ROBO_003.3PRPaR which is the positioning mechanism and ROBO_003 which is the directional mechanism. Screw theory was carried out to analyze the DOF of ROBO_003, aiming at the requirement performances of working space, stiffness, reverse drive, and output capacity of haptic device. Forward kinematics and inverse kinematics of the positioning mechanism were analyzed. To ensure the force transmission performance and compact structure, the evaluating indicator is dexterity and volume. Generalized coordinates as constraint condition, length of moving rod, and dexterity were chosen as the objective function. The parameters were optimized based on multiobjective optimization of the genetic algorithm. The paretooptimal solution set of the objective function was received. The results showed that the most suitable parameters are 0.502 rad. The optimized dexterity is 69% higher than the unoptimized, and the rod length is reduced by 6%.The research of this paper provides a theoretical basis for the designation of new haptic device.
A Comprehensive Multiomics Analysis Identified Ubiquilin 4 as a Promising Prognostic Biomarker of Immune-Related Therapy in Pan-Cancer
Authors: Li Jie , Tong Ye , Wang Zhi , Liu Yi , Dai Xiaobo , Zhu Yuxi
Published: September 2021

Recently, it was reported that ubiquilin 4 (UBQLN4) alteration was associated with genomic instability in some cancers. However, whether UBQLN4 is a valuable biomarker for the prognosis of immunotherapy in pan-cancer was not identified. We evaluated the biologic and oncologic significance of UBQLN4 in pan-cancer at multiomics level, such as expression, mutation, copy number variation (CNV), methylation, and N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation. These omics data were obtained from several public databases, including Oncomine, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), the Human Protein Atlas (HPA), Gene Set Cancer Analysis (GSCA), m6A-Atlas, CancerSEA, and RNAactDrug. We found that UBQLN4 mRNA and protein were overexpressed in most cancer types, and the expression, mutation, CNV, and methylation of UBQLN4 were associated with the prognosis of some cancers. Mechanistically, UBQLN4 was involved in angiogenesis, DNA damage, apoptosis, and the pathway of PI3K/AKT and TSC/mTOR. Moreover, UBQLN4 mRNA was significantly correlated with immune checkpoints, tumor mutational burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), and mismatch repair (MMR). And, the correlation among UBQLN4 mRNA, CNV, and methylation and immune microenvironment was also identified. Furthermore, UBQLN4 was associated with the sensitivity of chemotherapy and targeted drugs at multiomics level. In conclusion, UBQLN4 was a promising prognostic biomarker of immune-related therapy in pan-cancer.
Artificial Intelligence to Analyze the Performance of the Ceramic‐Coated Diesel Engine Using Digital Filter Optimization
Authors: Nirmala P. , Ramkumar G. , Sahoo Satyajeet , Anitha G. , Ramesh S. , Agnes Shifani S. , Shata Agegnehu Shara
Published: September 2021

The completeness of oil goods activates the barriers of lack of goods, inequality in the society, and surroundings impoverishment. Avoiding their use overnight and switching to clean electric motors are a challenge. Under all these conditions, researchers can launch their research on alternative fuels for a preeminent solution. Oxygenated fuel additives and thermal barrier coating (TBC) applications are essential to decrease the emission levels of exhaust and improve the performance of the vehicle. The main objective of this research is to analyze the performance of the ceramic‐coated diesel engine. The ceramic particles use polymer coating to enhance the functionality and durability. Optimum outcomes are determined using Taguchi method. The impacts of various casting parameters of composites have been examined in detail. PSO‐GA (Particle Swarm Optimization and Genetic Algorithm) is utilized to analyze the performance. Using an artificial neural network (ANN), the performance of diesel engine is examined to reduce time, cost, and experimental repetition. Thus, by using the artificial intelligence, the performance of the ceramic‐coated diesel engine is analyzed and the polymeric substance and condition in coating ceramic engine is discussed.