bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defensive behavior of the invasive alien hornet, Vespa velutina, against color, hair and auditory stimuli of potential aggressors
Authors: Choi Moon Bo , Hong Eui Jeong , Kwon Ohseok
Published: April 2021

Background

During recent years, invasion of the yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) has occurred in Europe, Korea and Japan, and stinging accidents often occur as some V. velutina nests are in places where humans can reach them. Misleading information regarding precautionary measures for mitigating wasp attacks has only exacerbated the situation. In this study, we sought to identify appropriate countermeasures by analyzing wasp defensive behavior, with a focus on color, hair and auditory stimuli.

Methods

Defensive behavior was analyzed using video recordings by creating an experimental frame to attach experimental bundles to nine V. velutina nests in Daegu and Gyeongbuk, South Korea. For the color experiment, eight-color and single-color tests were conducted with bundles of eight colors (black, brown, yellow, green, orange, gray, red and white), and the difference in defensive behavior was tested between black hair/hairless and green hair/black hairless configurations.

Results

When presented simultaneously with bundles of eight different colors, V. velutina showed the greatest and the longest defensive behavior against the black bundle, followed by brown. A similar response was observed in single-color tests. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the defensive behavior against black hair and black hairless, but the duration of defensive behavior was longer for black hair. A comparison between green hair and black hairless stimuli indicated that wasps are more sensitive to color than to hair texture. Vespa velutina showed no discernible responses when exposed to selected auditory stimuli (human conversation and loud music). Dark colors and dark hair are characteristic features of potential predators, to which wasps are evolutionarily predisposed, and are accordingly likely to provoke strong defensive responses. The results of this study provide scientifically credible information that can be used to base appropriate precautionary measures against wasp attacks.
Repair of Preduodenal Portal Vein Injury with Polytetrafluoroethylene Graft with Midgut Rotation and Left Sided Inferior Vena Cava
Authors: Ansari Zuber , Mandal Tuhin Subhra , Jana Koustav , Sarkar Avik
Published: April 2021

Preduodenal Portal Vein (PDPV) is a rare congenital anomaly. The presence of PDPV carries the risk of injury to Portal Vein (PV) during operations involving biliary duct, duodenum and pancreas. This report is about a 50-year-old female patient with PDPV associated with midgut malrotation and left sided Inferior Vena Cava (IVC). The patient was operated for Recurrent Pyogenic Cholangitis (RPC) and associated biliary stones. The patient sustained iatrogenic injury to PV during surgery which was subsequently repaired with Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft doppler showed patent graft at three months of follow-up. This report highlights the fact that pre-existing inflammatory conditions of bile duct and hepatoduodenal ligament further increase the risk of injury to PDPV during surgery.
Adolescent and Adult Hypospadias Repair: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Maiti Krishnendu , Haldar Bikram , Pal Dilip Kumar
Published: April 2021

Introduction: There is a general consensus that results of hypospadias repair surgery, done on children, seem to have a better outcome when compared to the adults. Hypospadias cases in adults can present as primary or with complications resulting from an attempted repair. Aim: To assess any difference in outcome of surgeries done among the adolescent and adult population and to evaluate the use of a Tunica Vaginalis (TV) second layer barrier flap in preventing complications such as urethrocutaneous fistula. Materials and Methods: This was a single centre retrospective observational assessment of the adolescent and adult hypospadias surgeries conducted at a Tertiary Care Hospital from January 2016 to July 2019. The assessment was based on the presentation, site of hypospadias meatus, previous surgery and development of any complications or recurrence. Routine surgeries as per the hospital protocol were done in these patients. Follow-up was done for the next 12 months. For data analysis tables, columns and pie charts were used. Fisher’s-exact test was used to find the association and calculate the p-value with the help of SPSS 21.0 software. Results: Total 28 patients were assessed, of which 17 patients were adolescents (mean age 14.6±1.66 years) and 11 (mean age 22.7±3.51 years) were adult. There was no significant (p-value 0.581) difference in the final outcome of hypospadias repair surgery between the adolescent and adult population. Use of TV interposition barrier flap prevented development of complications. Urethrocutaneous fistula was the most common form of complication noted in both the groups overall rate of complication was 14.2%. Conclusion: When hypospadias repair in adolescents and adults is done in a systematic and meticulous fashion, the outcome was satisfactory and there was no significant difference in outcome among the two age groups. Use of TV flap as a second layer interposition can improve the outcome in such patients.
Comparison of Attendance of Patients Pre-lockdown and during Lockdown in Gynaecology and Antenatal Outpatient Department in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Nadia, West Bengal, India
Authors: Sarkar Suvobrata , Chowdhury Ranita Roy , Mukherji Jayeeta , Samanta Manaswita , Bera Gairik
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought about a paramount change in the life. This has lead to a reduction in the number of routine patients visiting the Outpatient Department (OPD) of various hospitals and this department was no exception. Aim: To compare the attendance of patient in Antenatal Care (ANC) and Gynaecology Out Patient Department (GOPD) between pre-lockdown and lockdown period due to COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted among patients attending the OPD in ANC and Gynaecology for 70 days lockdown from 23rd March to 31st May and 70 days immediate pre-lockdown period from 12th January to 22nd March 2020. Daily attendance was noted and types of patient attending in different sub clinics in Gynaecology OPD compared. Enrolment of new ANC patient and old booked cases was compared during both periods. Descriptive statistics were used and displayed as percentages. Results: There was a significant reduction in number of patients attending OPD in lockdown period. There was a total of 6088 (87.3%) reduction in number of patients in Gynaecology OPD and 2235 (69.6%) reduction of patients in ANC OPD which was found to be significant with p-value <0.001. Reduction of patient in lockdown days among new ANC was 574 while it was 1661 in case of old patients. The different sub clinics of GOPD like infertility (704), endocrine (1450), uro-gynaecology (656), STD/PID (732), postpartum (597), cancer detection (316), abortion and medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) (330), others (1303) also witnessed a diminution of attendance. Conclusion: COVID-19 caused a significant decrease in footfall of patients in outpatient department due to lockdown, though the percentage of types of patient attending Gynaecology OPD was almost same.
Management of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia in Association with Fungal Keratitis in a HIV Positive Individual
Authors: Singh Prabhakar , Gupta Abhishek , Gupta Richa
Published: April 2021

Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia (OSSN) co-existent with fungal keratitis in an immunodeficient individual has rarely been talked about in literature. Risk factors for fungal keratitis are trauma with vegetative matter, topical steroid abuse, poor ocular surface, corneal anaesthesia, systemic immunosuppression, etc., and for OSSN a major risk factor is immunodeficiency. In current report, patient had multiple risk factors. This report highlights the management of HIV positive 42-year-old male with OSSN and fungal keratitis. A comprehensive evaluation helps clinician decide on treatment priority and achieve good clinical outcome.
Risk Factors for Carbapenem Resistance in Gram Negative Nosocomial Pneumonia: A Single Centre Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Banerjee Swayambhu , Henry Renoy , Surendran Sandeep , Pillai Abhiram , Pai Rema
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Gram Negative Bacilli (GNB) account for about 70% of Hospital Acquired Pneumonia (HAP), Ventilator Acquired Pneumonia (VAP) and Healthcare Associated Pneumonia (HCAP). Increasing use of carbapenems lead to infections caused by GNBs with therapeutically challenging Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamases (ESBLs). Aim: To assess the risk factors and clinical outcomes associated with HAP, VAP and HCAP caused by Carbapenem Resistant (CR) GNB at a Tertiary Care Centre. Materials and Methods: The present study was a prospective cohort study which was conducted from February 2015 to September 2016 that included 66 patients with Broncho Alveolar Lavage (BAL) cultures for GNB. Clinical, demographic and microbiological data (including antibiotic sensitivity) along with overall mortality, occurrence of sepsis and length of stay were collected for each patient. Data were analysed using OpenStat 30.0 along with relevant descriptive statistics. Comparison of outcomes between CR and Carbapenem Sensitive (CS) group were studied along with the concordance between initial antibiotics and BAL culture sensitivity. Results: Overall prevalence of CR in the cohort was 54.54%. The most common organism to be ESBL positive was Klebsiella pneumoniae (45.45%). Exposure to previous antibiotics was a risk factor for CR (p=0.017). Mortality was higher (50%) in CR group than in CS group (23.3%; p=0.026). There were 45.8% of the cases having lack of concordance of initial antibiotics that died in comparison to 16.7% who had an appropriate initial antibiotic therapy (p=0.030). Conclusion: There is a high prevalence of CR in nosocomial pneumonia. Judicious use of antibiotics is the need of the hour and can be implemented by an Antibiotic Stewardship program.
Use of Ivermectin as a Potential Chemoprophylaxis for COVID-19 in Egypt: A Randomised Clinical Trial
Authors: Shoumann Waheed M , Hegazy Abdelmonem Awad , Nafae Ramadan M , Ragab Moustafa I , Samra Saad R , Ibrahim Dalia Anas , Al-Mahrouky Tarek H , Sileem Ashraf E
Published: April 2021

Introduction: The rate of secondary attacks of SARS-COV-2 is high among household close contacts. Social distancing, isolation and infection control measures are important for preventing exposure to infection, but insufficient. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate possible role of oral ivermectin as a chemoprophylaxis in asymptomatic family close contacts with COVID-19 patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective interventional randomised open label-controlled study was conducted (registered at clinicaltrials.gov; NCT04422561) during June and July 2020. Two arms were designed according to use of ivermectin. In ivermectin arm, contacts received ivermectin according to Body Weight (BW) on day of the diagnosis of their index case. The non-intervention group received no treatment. Both groups were followed-up for two weeks for development of symptoms suggestive of COVID-19. Results: Ivermectin group included 203 contacts (to 52 index cases) aged 39.75±14.94 years; 52.2% were males. Non-intervention group included 101 contacts (to a total of 24 index cases) aged 37.69±16.96 years, 49.5% were males. Fifteen contacts (7.4%) developed COVID-19 in the ivermectin arm compared to 59 (58.4%) in the non-intervention arm (p<0.001). The protection rate for ivermectin was more prominent in contacts aged less than 60-year-old (6.2% infected compared to 58.7% if no treatment). Ivermectin in the protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection had an OR of 12.533 and 11.445 (compared to nontreatment) in both univariate and multivariate models, respectively. Side effects of ivermectin were reported in 5.4%; they were mild. Conclusion: Ivermectin is suggested to be a promising, effective and safe chemoprophylactic drug in management of COVID-19.
A Rare Case of Cervical Fibroid in a Young Woman Managed by Uterus Conserving Surgery
Authors: Galidevara Chandana , Rajarajan Dhivya
Published: April 2021

Cervical fibroid is a surgical challenge to the gynaecologist, more so when an attempt to conserve the uterus is made in young patients who want to preserve their fertility. The presenting complaint in cervical fibroids are mainly pressure symptoms due to compression on surrounding structures in the pelvis, which is an indication for surgical management. The mainstay of treatment in older patients who have completed family has been hysterectomy. Here authors report a case of 29-year-old young multiparous women, who underwent caesarean section in her second pregnancy because of cervical fibroid diagnosed antenatally elsewhere, presented to us postnatally with pain and pressure symptoms with abdominal distension due to that central cervical fibroid for 7 months in the postnatal period. She was managed by uterus conserving surgery with the involvement of a multi-disciplinary team.
MODELAGEM MATEMÁTICA EM EDUCAÇÃO MATEMÁTICA: POSSIBILIDADES PARA OS PROCESSOS DE ENSINO E DE APRENDIZAGEM / MATHEMATICAL MODELING IN MATHEMATICAL EDUCATION: POSSIBILITIES FOR TEACHING AND LEARNING PROCESSES
Authors: Soares Maria Rosana , Junior Guataçara Dos Santos , Gualandi Jorge Henrique
Published: April 2021

Na literatura da modelagem matemática, há diferentes procedimentos (etapas ou possibilidades de abordagens) para desenvolvê-la e explorá-la no ensino de matemática. Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar e evidenciar as essenciais possibilidades para os processos de ensino e aprendizagem de matemática, extraídos da literatura e de atividades de modelagem desenvolvidas em um curso de licenciatura em matemática. Metodologicamente, o estudo foi amparado por análises bibliográficas e práticas, pesquisa qualitativa de cunho interpretativo e estudo de caso, utilizando materiais audiovisuais como o software Calc, o Excel, o Word e bibliotecas on-line. As coletas de dados derivaram-se da observação, da intervenção na pesquisa e dos dados analisados e extraídos de anotações, atividades feitas pelos sujeitos, consultas ao Ministério da Saúde, imagens, registros e questionários. Portanto, [...] Não consegui salvar o resumo inteiro aqui, pois apresentava erros no sistema on-line.
Effect of Seasonal Fluctuations on the Nutrient Content of Whole Body of Callinectes pallidus
Authors: Omole Oluwafemi Akinsola , Adepoju Oluwafunmike Blessing , Aeneas Nebert Ulteino , Nwauzor Gloria O , Ugoh Uchechi , Bello Adunola Abosede
Published: April 2021

Due to the effect of species, age, sex, environment and season on the nutrientcomposition of seafood, the effect of seasonal fluctuations on the nutrient content of whole body of Callinectes pallidus caught during dry and wet seasonswas investigated.The proximate composition of the whole body of Callinectes pallidus caught in the month of February (dry season) and June (rainy season)was determined using standard methods, the fatty acid composition was analysed using Gas Chromatography- Mass Spectrophotometer and the amino acid composition was analyzed using Amino Acid Analyzer. Parameters such as crude fat, ash content and carbohydrateshowed significant difference (p<0.05) between Callinectes pallidus caught in February and Junewhile moisture content, crude protein and crude fibreshowed no significant difference (p<0.05). The percentage eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for C. pallidus caught in June (18.47%, 10.53%) was higher than those caught in February (11.21%, 6.90%) while the n-6/n-3 ratio of C. pallidus caught in February (1.07) was higher than those caught in June (0.71). Glutamic acid had the highest concentration of non-essential amino acid in C. pallidus caught in both seasons while leucine had the highest concentration of essential amino acids. This study showed that C. pallidus caught in wet season had higher crude protein content, polyunsaturated fatty acids and essential amino acids than C. pallidus caught in dry season.
Assessment of Soil Fertility Status of Kanwara Minor Lift Canal Command Area in Banda District of Bundelkhand using Nutrient Index Values
Authors: Chaubey Chandrakant , Chaubey A. K. , Mishra Amit , Singh Narendra , Shukla Gaurav , Kumar Sanjay
Published: April 2021

A study was conducted to assess the fertility status of Kanwara minor lift canal command area using Nutrient Index values of different soil parameters under study in 2019-20. A systematic set of two hundred and eleven georeferenced soil samples were collected and analysed following the standard sampling and analytical procedure. The analysed values of different parameters were categorized in low, medium and high and further used in determination of the nutrient index. NI value of soil organic carbon was 1.16, 1.00 for available N, 1.47 for available P and 2.55 for available K respectively. Regarding the fertility class based on Nutrient Index values it was deficient in organic carbon, available N and available P while, sufficient in soil available K. This requires immediate attention towards the management of nutrients to restore the soil fertility and sustain crop productivity.
Morphological and Physiological Responses of Arachis hypogea L. to Salinity and Irrigation Regimes in Screen House
Authors: Tabot Pascal Tabi , Kedju Nchufor Christopher , Nyama Besingi Claudius , Abeche Achangoh Josaiah
Published: April 2021

Aims: The K3237-80 groundnut variety from IRAD Nkolbisson is widely preferred in the Central African sub region for its sizable seeds and high yields, thus its contribution to livelihoods and food security. Apart from yield rating studies, responses to abiotic stress have not been done for this variety. The aim of this research was to investigate the responses of K3237-80 groundnut variety to salinity and water stress in screen house, in order to predict growth and yield performance under predicted conditions of soil salinity and rainfall variability.

Materials and Methods: The experimental design was a 4 by 3 factorial design. There were three levels of irrigation corresponding to 1100 mm, 2200 mm and 3300 mm crossed with four salinity levels of 0, 4, 8 and 12 ppt. Treatments were maintained till maturity and growth, yield and physiological parameters measured. Data were subjected to Factorial Analysis of Variance through the GLM approach, in the MINITAB Version 17 statistical package, followed by Spearman Rank Correlation and Factor analyses, all at α = 0.05.

Results: It was found that this variety is mildly tolerant to salinity, as growth and yield decreased at salinity levels above 4 ppt. It is however resistant to irrigation water variability which explains why it does well in all five agroecological zones of Cameroon. Both salinity and irrigation treatments significantly influenced WUE, transpiration rate and TUE (p<0.05). Water use efficiency decreased from 3.23 g/l in plants irrigated with freshwater to 1.76 g/l in plants treated with water of 12 ppt salinity. Transpiration rate increased from 0.04 l/hr/plant at 0ppt to 0.06 l/hr/plant at higher salinities, while transpiration use efficiency correspondingly decreased significantly. Correlation analysis revealed that growth, yield and biomass parameters of A. hypogea are highly salinity-driven, while transpiration and water use efficiency are highly irrigation-dependent.

Conclusion: Therefore groundnut can be grown to maturity at salinity of up to 12 ppt, the trade-off is reduced growth and yield, caused by disruptions in photosynthesis and water relations.
Accelerated Scale up of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision within the Military Health Services in Uganda: The Race towards 2020 HIV Epidemic Control
Authors: Lugada E. , Seruwagi G. , Nyanzi A. , Lawoko S. , Bwayo D. , Kasujja V. , Lutimba B. , Rwegyema T. , Akao J. , Wamundu C. , Musinguzi A. , Asiimwe E. , Kinuthia F. K. , Kikaire B.
Published: April 2021

Background: Scaling up Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC) is a critical intervention in achieving HIV epidemic control by 2020. However, documentation of programmatic interventions to improve VMMC uptake among military populations, a population that is at high risk of HIV, is lacking. URC-Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program (DHAPP) implemented a novel approach to accelerate VMMC uptake in the Ugandan military.  We describe trends in VMMC uptake and associated operational costs following the intervention. We also contrast between military and civilian facilities.

Program Description: We implemented monthly mobile VMMC services throughout the country targeting soldiers, their families and surrounding communities. Records gathered during implementation were used to describe the intervention. Quantitative methods were applied to compare VMMC post intervention rates with set targets and monthly VMMC trends country-wide between military and civilian facilities over a five months period. An operational VMMC service cost analysis was applied to determine per male circumcision unit cost, excluding cost of consumables.

Lessons Learnt: Command-driven mobilization, multiple stakeholder engagement, use of mobile VMMC teams and data-driven planning increased demand for and uptake of VMMC services among the military. By the first month of intervention, VMMC performance had surpassed set monthly targets of 1,474 by 1457 circumcisions, accounting for a 99% increase (n=2,931 circumcisions) from 31% to 62% uptake. Overall VMMC performance achieved within the military was 132% in excess of set targets (n=7,408) at six months. The scaled-up operational VMMC cost per circumcision performed dropped from $15 to $7, a 47% unit cost saving within six months. While a positive trend in VMMC uptake was observed in the military facilities, the opposite was exhibited in civilian facilities over the observation period.

Conclusion: It is feasible to rapidly scale up circumcision coverage in populations served by military health facilities through mobile short term episodic VMMC services which optimize volume and efficiency. Invoking command-led mobilization and multiple stakeholder involvement is critical in demand creation and overcoming the mobile nature of the military.
Evaluation of Fresh and Thawed Semen of Pecari tajacu (Artiodactyla: Tayassuidae) in Yucatán Mexico
Authors: Rubén Montes-Pérez , Jose Mukul-Yerves , Carlos Silva-Mena , Juan Magaña-Monforte
Published: April 2021

This research aimed to characterize the seminal properties of collared peccary Pecari tajacu before and after freezing, and to relate the morphometric measurements of the testes with sperm measurements before freezing. The study design was quasi-experimental in nature. The investigation was carried out at the Xmatkuil Wildlife Management and Conservation Unit and the Centennial Zoo in the state of Yucatan, Mexico, during the months of October to December 2001. Seventeen collared pecaries adult were electroejaculation from two captive populations. Macro and microscopic analyzes of fresh and thawed semen were carried out, also morphometric measurements of the testes, the data of sperm measurements were compared with Student´s  t-test, a linear regression model was adjusted between spermatic and morphometric variables of the testis. Logistic regression was performed between seminal freezability and spermatic and morphometric variables. The ejaculate volume was 0.96 ± 0.98 ml, with 62.08 ± 19.10% sperm motility, concentration of 558.61 ± 537.04 x 106 spermatozoa / ml of fresh semen and vigor of 3.7 ± 0.58 on a scale of 1 to 5. On thawing the motility sperm was 35 ± 17.18% and 2.75 ± 0.62 vigor. The measurements of the sperm cell segments did not show a significant difference between the individuals of the two populations. Testicular width and sperm concentration were fitted to the logistic regression model with freezability (1 = yes, 0 = no). It is concluded that testicular width is a factor significantly associated with sperm motility and seminal freezability.
Hemodynamic Changes During Spinal Anesthesia with Different Bupivacaine Concentrations in Elderly Cardiac Patients Undergoing Transurethral Resection of Prostate
Authors: Elkady Omar Mohamed Fathy , Mohamed Naglaa Khalil , Salim Ahmed Esam-Eldein , Eldaba Ahmed Ali
Published: April 2021

Background: Spinal anesthesia produces hypotension more often in elderly patients than in younger patients due to decrease systemic vascular resistance mainly. Limiting the dose (and thus, extent of anesthetic spread) to the necessary dermatomes reduces the likelihood of side effects. The aim of the study was to compare hemodynamic effects of spinal anesthesia by using different bupivacaine concentrations in elderly cardiac patients undergoing TURP.

Methods: This prospective randomized controlled double-blinded study was carried out on 60 male patients aged 65 years and above, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) III, with IHD (history of MI, a history of a positive treadmill test result (ECG stress test), use of nitroglycerin, chronic stable angina for more than two months, or an ECG with abnormal Q waves), with ejection fraction (EF) 35%-50%, undergoing TURP with prostate from 100-150 gm by using bipolar resection technique and normal saline wash during surgical procedure. Patients were randomly allocated into two equal groups: Group I (Control group): received 2.5 ml bupivacaine 0.5% + 0.5 ml fentanyl (25 mcg). Group II: received 1.75ml bupivacaine 0.5% + 0.75 ml distilled water + 0.5 ml fentanyl (25 mcg).

Results: Mean arterial blood pressure was significantly decreased in group I than group II at 6, 9, 12, 15 and 30 minutes. Heart rate and peripheral oxygen saturation were insignificantly different between both groups. Ischemia occurred in 3 (10%) patients in group I and no patients in group II & the difference between both groups was insignificant. Hypotension was found significantly higher in group I than group II (P = 0.021) while PONV, bradycardia, headache, backache and shivering were insignificantly different between both groups. TURP syndrome didn’t occur in any case of our study.

Conclusions: Hyperbaric bupivacaine 8.75 mg injected at L4-L5 is sufficient to provide adequate sensory and motor block, while maintaining hemodynamic stability during TURP procedures.
The Diagnostic Performance of Chest Ultrasonography in the Up-to-date Workup in Patients with Chest Diseases
Authors: Zaablawy Esraa Mohammed El , Sherif Mohamed Fouad , Salem Faten Mohammed , Dawoud Rasha Mahmoud
Published: April 2021

Background: Application of chest radiography for all patients with chest diseases is associated with a significant increase in total costs, exposure to radiation, and overcrowding of the emergency department in case of emergency. Ultrasound has been introduced as an alternative diagnostic tool in this regard. The aim of the work is to determine sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of chest ultrasonography as an easy and fast form of imagery for different thoracic conditions.

Results: This prospective study was carried out on sixty patients. The majority of patients presented with lung masses (20%) and pleural effusion (16.7%). Chest US findings showed great concordance or agreement with the chest CT findings. The only lower concordance is noted in the diagnosis of pulmonary nodules or mass, where chest US reported pulmonary nodules or mass in 33.3% of patients compared to 46.7%% by chest CT. US showed a highly comparable diagnostic performance in chest-related pathological entities, compared to chest CT. Chest US had 100% sensitivity in detecting all pathological chest entities except for lung collapse (83.3%) and pulmonary nodules (71.4%). However, chest US was more specific than sensitive. It had 100% specificity in all pathological entities except for lung collapse consolidation. Chest US had 100% diagnostic accuracy in all chest-related pathological entities except for lung collapse consolidation and pulmonary nodules or masses. However, when presenting these findings among male and female patients, Chest US had better overall diagnostic accuracy among female patients than male patients.

Conclusion: US examination of the chest is a noninvasive and promising bedside tool for the examination of respiratory problems patients. Consequently, chest ultrasonography can be adjoined in the up-to-date work-up of the outpatients as an ancillary tool aiding in disease diagnosis.
Maximizing returns from enterprise manufacturing intelligence and multivariate statistical process control
Authors: Seasholtz Mary Beth , Crowley Ryan , Schmidt Alix , Zink Anna
Published: April 2021

This paper addresses challenges related to deploying analytics in the manufacturing environment. It discusses how to blend univariate and multivariate analyses into a deployment that can be successfully used by those not trained in Data Science. Enterprise manufacturing intelligence (EMI) has found great value in the chemical industry for aiding in timely decision making for improved plant reliability. It typically involves the use of control charts of multiple variables; that is, a univariate approach to data analysis. Another approach is to consider the data all together in a multivariate model, resulting in multivariate statistical process control (MSPC). These two approaches are complementary. Discussed in this report are guidelines for maximizing returns from EMI and MSPC deployments, including (1) considerations when setting up the MSPC model and (2) examples for how to interpret MSPC alerts, especially aimed at users who are not trained in multivariate data analysis.
Transfer learning and wavelength selection method in NIR spectroscopy to predict glucose and lactate concentrations in culture media using VIP‐Boruta
Authors: Kaneko Hiromasa , Kono Shunsuke , Nojima Akihiro , Kambayashi Takuya
Published: April 2021

Regression models are constructed to predict glucose and lactate concentrations from near‐infrared spectra in culture media. The partial least‐squares (PLS) regression technique is employed, and we investigate the improvement in the predictive ability of PLS models that can be achieved using wavelength selection and transfer learning. We combine Boruta, a nonlinear variable selection method based on random forests, with variable importance in projection (VIP) in PLS to produce the proposed variable selection method, VIP‐Boruta. Furthermore, focusing on the situation where both culture medium samples and pseudo‐culture medium samples can be used, we transfer pseudo media to culture media. Data analysis with an actual dataset of culture media and pseudo media confirms that VIP‐Boruta can effectively select appropriate wavelengths and improves the prediction ability of PLS models, and that transfer learning with pseudo media enhances the predictive ability. The proposed method could reduce the prediction errors by about 61% for glucose and about 16% for lactate, compared to the traditional PLS model.
Design of experiments and manufacturing design space for multi‐step processes
Authors: Frieri Rosamarie , Mariti Marco , Paludi Marilena
Published: April 2021

Most industrial processes are composed of multiple subsequent steps. In this article, we provide a statistical approach to design experiments and to define the manufacturing design space of multi‐step processes by taking into account the complex system of interactions among steps. We consider each intermediate outcome as an additional input factor in the next step and we plan experiments following a particular sequential structure. To encompass the potential deviations from the target levels of such input factors, designs are selected according to the D‐optimality in average criterion and, in order to assess their prediction capabilities, a suitable extension of the fraction of design space technique has been proposed. The manufacturing design space of the process is then defined by combining the interconnected manufacturing design spaces of the process steps and by deriving the linear combination of the process inputs that ensures the required quality standard for the final outcome. Appealing properties of this approach are also shown by the application to a three‐steps biochemical process of expression and purification of a recombinant protein in which 10 input factors are included in the design.
Stolpergefahren aufgrund der Bodenbeschaffenheit bei Evakuierungsszenarien
Authors: Herzog Daniel , Tegeler Johannes
Published: April 2021

Bei der Planung von Großveranstaltungen sind Personenstromsimulationen ein häufig verwendetes Werkzeug geworden. Dabei können viele Umgebungsparameter als Randbedingungen bereits heute berücksichtigt werden. Bisher noch unbeachtet sind Stolpergefahren in der Bodenoberfläche und der im Stolperfall resultierende veränderte Bewegungsstrom der Personen. In einer Literaturrecherche wurde der Gangzyklus und die maßgebliche Störung (visuell und motorisch), die zum Stolpern führt, analysiert. Ein Höhenunterschied von 12,9 ± 4,5 mm kann eine Person zum Stolpern bringen. Je nach Personendichte ist die Auswirkung auf den Bewegungsstrom und die betroffenen und umgebenden Personen unterschiedlich gravierend. Rechtlich gesehen stellt in Deutschland, basierend auf bisherigen Gerichtsurteilen, eine Abweichung des Bodenniveaus von 2,0 bis 2,5 cm eine Verletzung der Verkehrssicherungspflicht dar. Um die Gefahr und die folgenden Auswirkungen eines Stolperfalls auf die Evakuierung von Großveranstaltungen besser in die Planung und Simulation einfließen lassen zu können, sollte ein Faktor für Oberflächen entwickelt werden, der Oberflächenunregelmäßigkeiten und Stolperstellen berücksichtigt.
Trittschallpegelminderung, Schalldämm‐Maße und Trittschallpegel von Fertigbädern
Authors: Eßer Georg , Keil Moritz , Porowski Piotr
Published: April 2021

Schon seit Jahrzehnten werden im Bauwesen Fertigbäder verwendet, die als geschlossene Elemente im Werk mit allen Installationen, Objekten, Wandverkleidungen und Accessoires montiert und am Bau nur noch aufgestellt und angeschlossen werden müssen. Fertigbäder liegen als Betonzellen aber auch als Stahlblechkonstruktionen, die am Bau eine Verkleidung aus Gipskartonbauplatten erhalten, vor. In der DIN 4109 ist kein Bauteilkatalog für Fertigbäder enthalten, sodass Hersteller derartiger Fertigbäder Prüfzeugnisse über den Schallschutz vorlegen müssen. Diese Prüfzeugnisse beinhalten zum größten Teil die bewertete Trittschallpegelminderung, um auf Basis der Stahlbeton‐Rohdecke den bewerteten Norm‐Trittschallpegel prognostizieren zu können. Es liegen aber auch Prüfergebnisse über die Schalldämm‐Maße der Trennwände und vom Komplettsystem am Bau vor. Folgend werden die aus einer Vielzahl von Messungen gewonnenen Erkenntnisse über die Schallschutzeigenschaften von Fertigbädern zusammengefasst.
Psoas hitch procedure in 166 adult patients: The largest cohort study before the laparoscopic era
Authors: Groen V. H. , Lock M. T. W. T. , de Angst I. B. , Verhagen P. C. M. S. , Horenblas S. , Dik P. , Bosch J. L. H. R.
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To present the short‐term and long‐term outcomes of the psoas hitch procedure in a large cohort with long‐term follow‐up.

Patients and methods

A multicenter, retrospective cohort study was conducted. Patients were included if they had undergone an open psoas hitch procedure with ureteral reimplantation for different types of distal ureteral pathology between 1993 and 2017. Clinical failure was defined as radiologically‐proven obstruction of the ureteroneocystostomy and/or post‐operative complaints requiring additional surgery. Pre‐operative demographic data and post‐operative radiological imaging were collected. Complications were categorized as peri‐operative, acute (<30 days), and long‐term complications.

Results

A total of 166 patients had undergone a psoas hitch procedure, with a median follow‐up of 15 months (IQR 6‐45). Indications for the procedure included intra‐operative injury of the ureter during gynecological, urological or general surgery, transitional cell carcinoma of the distal ureter, fistulae, (radiation) fibrosis, and trauma. There was no significant difference in pre‐ and post‐operative estimated glomerular filtration rate. Post‐operative complications included urinary leakage, recurrent urinary tract symptoms, recurrent malignancy, and kidney failure. Postoperative imaging was available in 143 patients. Failure of the psoas hitch procedure was seen in 8% (11/143) of the patients. In 55% (6/11) of these patients, radiation fibrosis was the indication for the psoas hitch procedure.

Conclusion

This study provides greater insight into the long‐term complications of the open psoas hitch procedure in adults. The psoas hitch procedure can be considered a safe procedure for restoring the continuity of the ureter for different types of ureteral pathologies in adult patients. However, patients with a history of radiation therapy causing retroperitoneal fibrosis might be more prone to failure after the procedure.
Kopfbolzenverankerungen in mit CFK‐Bewehrung vorgespannten dünnwandigen Hochleistungsbetonfertigteilen
Authors: Ebschner Peter , Kautzsch René , Lämmlein Tobias , Holschemacher Klaus , Terrasi Giovanni
Published: April 2021

Ein Betonfertigteilprodukt mit dem Namen Carbolith© wird von Sacac, einem Hersteller für Betonfertigteile und Schleuderbetonmaste, in der Schweiz hergestellt. Es handelt sich um mit kohlenstofffaserverstärkten Kunststoffen (CFK) bewehrte, vorgespannte Hochleistungsbetonfertigteile (HPSCC). Die Ursprünge dieser Entwicklung gehen auf Mitte der 1990er Jahre zurück [1]. Neben dem Mastbau erschloss sich im Fassadenbau ein weiteres Anwendungsgebiet [2]. Neben gestalterischen Gründen bestand der Wunsch, leichtere und dauerhaft korrosionswiderstandsfähige Bauteile einzusetzen. In nachfolgenden Forschungsprojekten wurden gezielt Fragestellungen nach einer Materialoptimierung (Betonrezeptur, Matrixzusammensetzung, Oberflächenbeschaffenheit der CFK‐Spannbewehrung), der Vorspanntechnologie und deren Lasteinleitung (Keiloptimierung), einer Erhöhung des Vorspanngrads und dem Verhalten unter Brandbeanspruchung nachgegangen [3].

In den Jahren 2012–2015 wurde das Thema der Lasteinleitung in dünnwandige, mit Carbon vorgespannten HPSCC‐Profile an der Empa bearbeitet, weil es während der Projektierung stets einiger Improvisation und ingenieurmäßigen Geschicks bedurfte. Es gab weder zuverlässig anwendbare Bemessungsnormen, noch waren für die Lasteinleitung zugelassene Verankerungsprodukte verfügbar. Im folgenden Artikel wird über experimentelle Arbeiten berichtet, die dem Einsatz von Kopfbolzendübeln als Verankerungsmittel in Verbindung mit durch Carbon vorgespannten HPSCC‐Profilen dienen sollen.
CEO characteristics and environmental disclosure of listed firms in an emerging economy: Does sustainability reporting format matter?
Authors: Oware Kofi Mintah , Awunyo‐Vitor Dadson
Published: April 2021

The study's purpose examines chief executive officer (CEO) characteristics, sustainability reporting format, and environmental disclosure of listed firms in India. Eight hundred firm‐year observations across India's firms applied panel regression with random effect assumptions and general method of moment. The first findings show that reporting format has a positive and statistically significant association with environmental disclosure. The second findings show that CEO age and CEO tenure have an insignificant association, but CEO duality negatively associates with environmental disclosure. The third findings show that CEO characteristics (tenure and duality) × report format is insignificant. However, the CEO age × report format has a positive and statistically significant association with listed firms' environmental disclosure in India. The strategic implication shows that the choice of a stand‐alone sustainability reporting in environmental communication disclosure is a strategic benefit that secures strategic investors and investment in the firm. For the firm to be recognized as a strategic partner in global sustainable development goals, CEOs with longer tenure and aged CEOs engagements are an unsuitable investment, which Indian firms must not pursue. Endogeneity problems across panels are addressed in this study. This study's novelty examines the interactive effect of CEO characteristics and sustainability report format on environmental disclosure in India.
Activity of venetoclax against relapsed acute undifferentiated leukemia
Authors: Caldwell Kenneth J. , Budhraja Amit , Opferman Joseph T. , Pui Ching‐Hon , Klco Jeffery M. , Rubnitz Jeffrey E.
Published: April 2021

Acute undifferentiated leukemia is a rare hematologic malignancy with a poor prognosis. Venetoclax has been found to be highly active in 2 patients with relapsed acute undifferentiated leukemia and should be studied further.
Trends in the proportion of second or later primaries among all newly diagnosed malignant cancers
Authors: Anderson Chelsea , Mayer Deborah K. , Nichols Hazel B.
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Improvements in cancer survival mean that an increasing number of survivors may live long enough beyond their initial cancer to be diagnosed with additional independent primary cancers. The proportion of newly diagnosed cancers that are second‐ or higher‐order primaries and how this proportion has changed over the past several decades were examined.

METHODS

Data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program were used to identify incident malignant primaries diagnosed between 1975 and 2017. Using the SEER sequence number, the authors tabulated the proportion of all cancers in each calendar year that were second‐ or higher‐order primaries. The average annual percent change (AAPC) was then calculated to assess how this proportion has changed over time.

RESULTS

Analyses included nearly 4.9 million incident cancers diagnosed during 1975‐2017. The proportion of all cancers that were second‐ or higher‐order increased steadily from 9.77% during 1975‐1984 to 21.03% during 2015‐2017, reflecting an AAPC of 2.41% (95% CI, 2.16%‐2.65%). In 2015‐2017, second‐ or higher‐order cancers were most prevalent among cancers of the bladder (28.79%), followed by lung and bronchus (28.07%), melanoma (27.88%), and leukemia (26.10%). The highest AAPCs over the study period were observed for melanoma (4.05%), leukemia (3.51%), and lung and bronchus (3.36%).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of newly diagnosed cancers that are second‐ or higher‐order has grown rapidly over the past several decades and currently exceeds 20%. Continued monitoring of second and later primaries will be critical for anticipating the future impact on cancer treatment and survivorship care.
Mathematical formulation and hybrid meta‐heuristic algorithms for multiproduct oil pipeline scheduling problem with tardiness penalties
Authors: Khalili Goudarzi Farzaneh , Maleki Hamid Reza , Niroomand Sadegh
Published: April 2021

The system under investigation contains a single refinery, a unique distribution center, and a multiproduct pipeline. The basic aim is to plan the optimal sequence for pumping products to achieve financial benefit and satisfy the customers with on‐time delivery. In this study, some restrictions (such as batch sizing, discharging rate, forbidden sequences, and settling periods) are considered and the problem is formulated as a MILP model. Although the multiproduct pipeline scheduling problem has high time complexity, meta‐heuristic algorithms have been used rarely in the literature. Another contribution of this work is to develop several meta‐heuristic algorithms to solve the proposed MILP effectively. Therefore, as a novelty, some classical meta‐heuristics like population‐based simulated annealing and population‐based variable neighborhood search are hybridized by the gravitational search algorithm for obtaining better performance. Parameters of the algorithms are tuned by an optimization problem and then all algorithms are compared by numerical examples. The achieved results demonstrate the validity of the model and the efficient performance of the proposed algorithms against exact methods. These algorithms also lead to better solutions in much lower computational time. Among them, the hybrid algorithm obtained by combining the SA and GSA meta‐heuristics are superior to the other algorithms.
Evaluation of tobacco lines and hybrids carrying Beinhart‐1000 alleles at the Phn15.1 locus for agronomic and disease resistance characteristics
Authors: Heim Crystal , Ma Justin , Willard Eric , Shelton Cameron , Lewis Ramsey S.
Published: April 2021

Introgression of novel components of partial resistance to P. nicotianae can be used to increase the range, level, and durability of resistance to the black shank disease of tobacco. Here we describe the development and evaluation of BC9F3 sub‐sub‐NILs of elite flue‐cured tobacco cultivar ‘K326’ carrying a favorable allele(s) for resistance at the Phn15.1 quantitative trait locus derived from cigar cultivar ‘Beinhart 1000.’ We were able to identify a series of genotypes with significantly improved black shank resistance relative to K326 and, importantly, that possessed a mutant allele of NtCPS2, a closely linked gene involved in the biosynthesis of Z‐abienol (an undesirable flavor and aroma compound for flue‐cured tobacco). Some evidence of a potential influence of Phn15.1 on resistance to bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum was also observed. The Beinhart 1000 allele(s) at Phn15.1 acted in an additive manner to affect resistance to black shank. No significant reductions in cured leaf yields were found to be associated with Phn15.1‐mediated black shank resistance. Although not statistically significant, trends of slightly reduced physical cured leaf quality were observed as the zygosity of the Beinhart 1000 Phn15.1 allele(s) increased. Increases in percent total alkaloids and reductions in percent reducing sugars were also found as the zygosity at Phn15.1 increased. These changes probably did not result in cured leaf chemistry being outside of the bounds of commercial acceptability, however. The derived genetic materials enhanced for partial genetic resistance to black shank should be of value for future flue‐cured tobacco cultivar development efforts.
Diagnostic performance of Milan system for reporting salivary gland cytopathology: A prospective study
Authors: Hosseini S. Mohsen , Resta Isabella Tondi , Baloch Zubair W.
Published: April 2021

Background

Fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is a well‐established modality for diagnosing salivary gland pathologies. The Milan System for Reporting Salivary Gland Cytopathology (MSRSGC) provides a standardized uniform framework leading to an evidence‐based risk of malignancy (ROM). Based on the current literature, ROM in the 6‐tier MSRSGC ranges from <5% for neoplasm‐benign to >90% for the malignant category. Here, we report our institutional experience adopting MSRSGC.

Methods

The cytopathology group at our institution implemented MSRSGC at the end of 2018. Through a query of our laboratory information system, we identified all salivary gland FNA cases from 27 November 2018 to 26 October 2020. The pertinent surgical pathology follow‐up was also extracted. After manual curation, data was analyzed in Rv4.0.2.

Results

Our cohort comprised of 315 patients undergoing 343 salivary gland FNA biopsies, predominantly on the parotid (90%), 162 with a surgical pathology follow‐up. The risk of malignancy ranged from 3.2% in neoplasm‐benign (IVA) to 100% in suspicious for malignancy (V) and malignant (VI) categories. ROM in the other categories was: 12.5% for non‐diagnostic, 0 for non‐neoplastic, 33.3% for atypia of undetermined significance, and 41.9% for salivary gland neoplasm of uncertain malignant potential (SUMP). Most SUMP cases had a basaloid or oncocytoid cytomorphology with similar ROM. In distinguishing benign and malignant salivary gland lesions, FNA had adequacy of 93.6%, a diagnostic yield of 62.2%, a sensitivity of 93.1% and a specificity of 100%.

Conclusions

MSRSGC was successfully adopted by our cytology group and clinicians, with overall diagnostic performance similar to previous studies.