bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted: Human psychology in the cities
Authors: S. Demidov Aleksandr
Published: August 2021

This article considers the concept of a city as an organized and complex system, the main inhabitant/consumer of which is a human being. The human being, in its turn, is also a complex organized system. Separately, the functioning of both these systems is well enough studied, however to date in science little attention has been paid to the interaction of these systems with each other. The main object of study in the article is the psychological state of a person in an urban environment. The concepts of interest, excitement, boredom, stress, and so forth are investigated and their impact on physical health. Moreover, the problem of interaction of the real world with virtual technologies—their confrontation and mutual help in an urban context is also considered. At the end, there are several assumptions about the return of full‐bloodedness to the streets of modern cities. It was concluded that the cities can help stimulate the brain cells of citizens and maintain their brain activity at a certain level of productivity.
Muscle strength is associated with COVID‐19 hospitalization in adults 50 years of age or older
Authors: Cheval Boris , Sieber Stefan , Maltagliati Silvio , Millet Grégoire P. , Formánek Tomáš , Chalabaev Aïna , Cullati Stéphane , Boisgontier Matthieu P.
Published: August 2021

Background

Weak muscle strength has been associated with a wide range of adverse health outcomes. Yet, whether individuals with weaker muscle strength are more at risk for hospitalization due to severe COVID‐19 is still unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the independent association between muscle strength and COVID‐19 hospitalization.

Methods

Data from adults 50 years of age or older were analysed using logistic models adjusted for several chronic conditions, body‐mass index, age, and sex. Hand‐grip strength was repeatedly measured between 2004 and 2017 using a handheld dynamometer. COVID‐19 hospitalization during the lockdown was self‐reported in summer 2020 and was used as an indicator of COVID‐19 severity.

Results

The study was based on the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) and included 3600 older adults (68.8 ± 8.8 years, 2044 female), among whom 316 were tested positive for the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (8.8%), and 83 (2.3%) were hospitalized due to COVID‐19. Results showed that higher grip strength was associated with a lower risk of COVID‐19 hospitalization [adjusted odds ratio (OR) per increase of 1 standard deviation in grip strength = 0.64, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 0.45–0.87, P = 0.015]. Results also showed that age (OR for a 10 ‐year period = 1.70, 95% CI = 1.32–2.20, P < 0.001) and obesity (OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.00–3.69, P = 0.025) were associated with higher risk of COVID‐19 hospitalization. Sensitivity analyses using different measurements of grip strength as well as robustness analyses based on rare‐events logistic regression and a different sample of participants (i.e. COVID‐19 patients) were consistent with the main results.

Conclusions

Muscle strength is an independent risk factor for COVID‐19 severity in adults 50 years of age or older.
Neurosonographic assessments of corpus callosum related structures in growth‐restricted fetuses
Authors: Yakiştiran Betül , Altinboğa Orhan , Halici Öztürk Filiz , Erol Seyit Ahmet , Canpolat Fuat Emre , Yücel Aykan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether corpus callosum length (CCL), corpus callosum‐fastigium length (CCFL) and the angle between CCL‐CCFL (CCFA) were altered in growth‐restricted fetuses.

Methods

This prospective case–control study was conducted in a tertiary center. A total of 80 singleton fetuses were included in the study, classified as 36 late‐onset growth‐restricted fetuses and 44 adequate‐for‐gestational‐age fetuses. All biometric measurements and Doppler assessments of umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and ductus venosus were performed via the trans‐abdominal route. CCL, CCLF, and CCFA were assessed via the trans‐vaginal route.

Results

Late‐onset growth‐restricted fetuses showed significantly reduced CCL and CCFL. There was no statistically significant differences in terms of CCFA. Moderate‐high correlations between CCL and biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference, FL and gestational age were detected (r: 0.482 p: 0.000; r: 0.537 p: 0.000; r: 0.488 p: 0.000; r: 0.519 p: 0.000; and r: 0.472 p: 0.000, respectively).

Conclusion

This study adds to the literature that CCFA has not changed despite the decrease in CCL and CCFL in late‐onset fetal growth restriction that might be a result of the redistribution of cerebral blood flow. To clarify the prognostic implications of these results in terms of neural and cognitive functions in postnatal life, there is a need for larger prospective studies.
Understanding multiseptated gallbladder: A systematic analysis with a case report
Authors: Terkawi Rayan S. , Qutob Dua' , Hendaus Mohamed A.
Published: August 2021

Multiseptated gallbladder (MSG) (also known as “Honeycomb gallbladder”) is a rare condition that was first described by Knetsch in 1952, and there are around 150 cases described over the world. MSG has been described as a congenital anomaly in most of the cases and as acquired in a few. Moreover, the phenomenon was described with a variety of different symptoms and management. The aim of this article is to have better understanding of this condition and management approach. We are reporting a 4‐year‐old girl, who presented to Sidra Medicine, Qatar with MSG. We have also included 97 cases for review and analysis. The median age of presentation of the condition was 27 years but may present in neonates and in the elderly, while gender was not a risk factor. Abdominal pain is the most common presenting symptom, but it can present without symptoms. Certain congenital anomalies were detected in the pancreaticobiliary system in few patients with MSG. Medical treatment was reported in eight symptomatic patients, four of whom failed therapy. Cholecystectomy was performed in 40 patients, which resulted in resolutions of symptoms in 13 of them. Based on the available literature, congenital MSG is probably due to in‐pouching of gallbladder wall to its own cavity forming septa containing muscular fibers. MSG can be diagnosed solely via imaging, and ultrasound appears to be an effective and feasible mode of diagnosis. Medical treatment efficacy is not well‐known, but cholecystectomy has resulted in complete resolution in symptomatic patients.
Correlates of gallbladder stones among patients with sickle cell disease: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohamed Sagad O O , Ibrahim Omer A O , Mohammad Dahlia A A , Ali Almigdad H M
Published: August 2021

Sickle cell disorders are the most common hemoglobinopathies worldwide. Clinical variability of sickle cell disease (SCD) and susceptibility to its complications have been attributed to hematologic, genetic, and other influencing factors. This review aimed to provide further summary and analyses of the prevalence and factors associated with cholelithiasis among patients with SCD. A systematic database search was conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, World Health Organization Virtual Health Library, Cochrane Library databases, and System for Information on Gray Literature in Europe (SIGLE). Pooled prevalence, odds ratio (OR), and standardized mean difference (SMD) with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis Software version 3.3. A total of 34 studies that fulfilled the eligibility criteria were included in the analyses. The overall prevalence of cholelithiasis among SCD patients was 25.3% (95% CI 19.4–32.3%). The risk of developing cholelithiasis was significantly associated with lower total hemoglobin level (SMD = −0.45; P = 0.002), lower hemoglobin F (HbF) level (SMD = −0.85; P = 0.003), higher total serum bilirubin level (SMD = 1.15; P < 0.001), higher reticulocytes count (SMD = 0.44; P = 0.007), and UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase‐1A1 enzyme (UGT1A1) promoter polymorphism. This review provides a comprehensive view of the high rate of cholelithiasis and its associated factors in SCD patients.
MRI Characteristics of Pediatric Renal Tumors: A SIOP‐RTSG Radiology Panel Delphi Study
Authors: van der Beek Justine N. , Watson Tom A. , Nievelstein Rutger A.J. , Brisse Hervé J. , Morosi Carlo , Lederman Henrique M. , Coma Ana , Gavra Maria M. , Vult von Steyern Kristina , Lakatos Karoly , Breysem Luc , Varga Edit , Ducou Le Pointe Hubert , Lequin Maarten H. , Schäfer Jürgen F. , Mentzel Hans‐Joachim , Hötker Andreas M. , Calareso Giuseppina , Swinson Sophie , Kyncl Martin , Granata Claudio , Aertsen Michael , Di Paolo Pier Luigi , de Krijger Ronald R. , Graf Norbert , Olsen Øystein E. , Schenk Jens‐Peter , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Littooij Annemieke S.
Published: August 2021

Background

The SIOP‐Renal Tumor Study Group (RTSG) does not advocate invasive procedures to determine histology before the start of therapy. This may induce misdiagnosis‐based treatment initiation, but only for a relatively small percentage of approximately 10% of non‐Wilms tumors (non‐WTs). MRI could be useful for reducing misdiagnosis, but there is no global consensus on differentiating characteristics.

Purpose

To identify MRI characteristics that may be used for discrimination of newly diagnosed pediatric renal tumors.

Study Type

Consensus process using a Delphi method.

Population

Not applicable.

Field Strength/Sequence

Abdominal MRI including T1‐ and T2‐weighted imaging, contrast‐enhanced MRI, and diffusion‐weighted imaging at 1.5 or 3 T.

Assessment

Twenty‐three radiologists from the SIOP‐RTSG radiology panel with ≥5 years of experience in MRI of pediatric renal tumors and/or who had assessed ≥50 MRI scans of pediatric renal tumors in the past 5 years identified potentially discriminatory characteristics in the first questionnaire. These characteristics were scored in the subsequent second round, consisting of 5‐point Likert scales, ranking‐ and multiple choice questions.

Statistical Tests

The cut‐off value for consensus and agreement among the majority was ≥75% and ≥60%, respectively, with a median of ≥4 on the Likert scale.

Results

Consensus on specific characteristics mainly concerned the discrimination between WTs and non‐WTs, and WTs and nephrogenic rest(s) (NR)/nephroblastomatosis. The presence of bilateral lesions (75.0%) and NR/nephroblastomatosis (65.0%) were MRI characteristics indicated as specific for the diagnosis of a WT, and 91.3% of the participants agreed that MRI is useful to distinguish NR/nephroblastomatosis from WT. Furthermore, all participants agreed that age influenced their prediction in the discrimination of pediatric renal tumors.

Data Conclusion

Although the discrimination of pediatric renal tumors based on MRI remains challenging, this study identified some specific characteristics for tumor subtypes, based on the shared opinion of experts. These results may guide future validation studies and innovative efforts.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy Stage: 3
Newly generated and increased bound phenolic in lychee pulp during heat‐pump drying detected by UPLC–ESI‐triple‐TOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Shu Bin , Wang Junmin , Wu Guangxu , Cao Xuejiao , Huang Fei , Dong Lihong , Zhang Ruifen , Liu Hesheng , Su Dongxiao
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

During the thermal processing of fruit, it has been observed for phenolic compounds to either degrade, polymerize, or transfer into macromolecules. In this study, the bound and free phenolic compound composition, content, and phenolic‐related enzyme activity of lychee pulp were investigated to determine whether the free phenolic had converted to bound phenolic during heat‐pump drying (HPD).

RESULTS

It was found that after HPD, when compared with the fresh lychee pulp (control), the content of bound phenolics of dried lychee pulp had increased by 62.69%, whereas the content of free phenolics of dried lychee pulp decreased by 22.26%. It was also found that the antioxidant activity of bound phenolics had also increased after drying. With the use of high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, it was identified that (+)‐gallocatechin, protocatechuic aldehyde, isorhamnetin‐3‐O‐rutoside, 3,4‐dihydroxybenzeneacetic acid, and 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid were newly generated during HPD, when compared with the control sample. After drying, the contents of gallic acid, catechin, 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillin, syringic acid, and quercetin in bound phenolics had also increased, and polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase still showed enzyme activity, which could be related to the conversion of free phenolics to bound phenolics.

CONCLUSION

Overall, during the thermal processing of lychee pulp, the free phenolics weres found to be converted into bound phenolics, new substances were generated, and antioxidant activity was increased. Hence, it was concluded that HPD improved the bound phenolics content of lychee pulp, thus providing theoretical support for the lychee processing industry. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Perioperative score for octogenarian patients eligible for rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Damasceno Arthur Mota , Kesley Rubens , Paolino Bruno Souza , dos Santos do Amaral Marcelo Rubens , Pitombo Marcos Bettini
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives

Colorectal cancer incidence increases with age; therefore, rectal cancer treatment in elderly patients is increasingly common. Surgery is a common rectal cancer treatment, and the risks involve complicated surgical decisions. There are currently few surgical outcome data for rectal cancer in elderly patients. The aim of this study is to identify new perioperative risk factors that could be associated with higher 30‐ and 180‐day mortality in elderly patients in good clinical condition considering traditional perioperative risk scores and to develop a risk score.

Methods

A single‐centre, retrospective cohort study was performed by reviewing the medical records of patients from the National Cancer Institute of Brazil aged 80 years or older who electively underwent rectal cancer surgery; several independent variables correlated with death from all causes at 30 and 180 days were studied.

Results

Multivariate analysis found new variables (CEA, albumin and reoperation) that had independent correlations with increased 30‐ and 180‐day mortality. A clinical risk score was developed with survival profiles ranging from 29.3% to 97.2% within 30 days and 2.45% to 91.8% within 180 days.

Conclusions

This score can aid in deciding whether a patient should undergo rectal cancer surgery.
Modelling inbound international tourism demand in Australia: Lessons from the pandemics
Authors: Ghosh Sudeshna
Published: August 2021

The study explores how international tourism demand in Australia is impacted not only by traditional economic factors but also by uncertainty and risk emanating from pandemics. Using an augmented demand model the paper examines the main determinants of tourism in Australia during the favourable period and what lessons can be drawn to reboot international tourism in the post‐pandemic situation. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind, which employs a robust second‐generation panel model to examine the impact of pandemic augmenting economic uncertainty upon the international tourism demand in Australia.
How do locals perceive the touristification of their food market? The case of Barcelona's La Boqueria
Authors: Dimitrovski Darko , Crespi‐Vallbona Montserrat , Ioannides Dimitri
Published: August 2021

Overtourism has become a major issue of concern in many popular venues, including several cities like Barcelona. In this study, in order to better comprehend reactions towards overtourism, we analyze the perceptions of residents who regularly shop at Barcelona's La Boqueria towards the growing crowds of tourists who visit the same venue. The study aims to acknowledge the evolution over time of locals' aversion or support regarding the touristification of their food market and to determine whether or not overtourism regulations that were implemented by Barcelona's city government had an impact on these attitudes. Thus, we undertook a sequential explanatory mixed‐method approach (beginning with a quantitative approach and ending with a qualitative one) spanning the period 2015 to 2019. First, within the quantitative study, structural equation modeling results suggest that place identity observed through community attachment and resident place image has no direct statistically significant effect on residents' support for tourism development in La Boqueria. However, when mediated by tourism's perceived benefits and costs, these variables were recognized as statistically significant antecedents of support for La Boqueria's touristification. Secondly, we complemented and further elaborated on the quantitative findings through in‐depth interviews with local residents who shop at La Boqueria but also by utilizing available secondary data to reveal if there were any significant changes in locals' perception of touristification, especially following the adoption of the city's overtourism regulations. We conclude that residents' support for tourism development of La Boqueria as a public resource is strongly associated with their perception of place identity (both place image and community attachment) as well as expected benefits and associated costs.
Assessing the income multiplier of trail‐related tourism in a coastal area of Portugal
Authors: Lukoseviciute Goda , Pereira Luís Nobre , Panagopoulos Thomas
Published: August 2021

Rising demand for access to trail networks has encouraged local governments to invest in trail development. This study is the first attempt to estimate the local income multiplier effect of recreational trail tourism, applying an Ad hoc model. The most popular recreational trail in the Algarve region of Portugal was used as a study case to verify the relevance of the Ad hoc model application. The result acknowledges a significant trail‐related contribution to the local economy and rural community development. This study suggests the use of the Ad hoc model to assess the economic impact of local‐scale outdoor‐recreation activities in terms of income generation.
Ovarian Immobility at Transvaginal Ultrasound: An Important Sonographic Marker for Prediction of Need for Pelvic Sidewall Surgery in Women With Suspected Endometriosis
Authors: Rao Tanushree , Condous George , Reid Shannon
Published: August 2021

Objectives

To determine whether ovarian fixation at transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) is a marker for a need for laparoscopic pelvic sidewall surgery (ie, ureterolysis or dissection of adhesions involving the pelvic sidewall). The relationship between ovarian immobility at TVU with respect to endometriosis staging using the revised American Fertility Society (r‐AFS) classification was also evaluated.

Methods

Retrospective diagnostic accuracy study was performed in a tertiary referral hospital and two private hospitals. Sixty‐six women with pelvic pain underwent detailed TVU preoperatively followed by laparoscopic endometriosis surgery. TVU ovarian mobility findings (ie, mobile versus fixed ovary) were compared to surgical findings, the need for laparoscopic pelvic sidewall surgery and r‐AFS score (I–IV).

Results

Complete ultrasound and surgical data were available for 66 of 77 (86%) women. Twenty‐six of 66 (40%) had isolated superficial peritoneal endometriosis, 15 of 66 (23%) had ovarian endometrioma (OE), 13 of 66 (20%) had pelvic deep endometriosis (DE). Twenty‐seven of 66 (41%) had ovarian fixation at TVU. The accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of ovarian fixation at TVU for the prediction of need for laparoscopic pelvic sidewall surgery was 71%, 61%, 86%, 85%, and 62%, respectively (P = .0002). Ovarian fixation at TVU was significantly associated with the presence of ipsilateral OE, pouch of Douglas obliteration, pelvic DE nodules, and r‐AFS stage III/IV (moderate/severe) endometriosis (all P‐values <.05).

Conclusions

Ovarian fixation at TVU appears to be a marker for moderate/severe endometriosis and the need for laparoscopic pelvic sidewall surgery. This sign may be a valuable “red flag” for identifying women at increased risk of requiring an advanced laparoscopic surgeon, and in turn, improve surgical planning.
Kinetics and mechanism of the one‐step, two‐electron oxidation of diaquadichloro(1,10‐phenanthroline)chromium(III) chloride dihydrate by periodate to chromium(V) in aqueous acidic solutions
Authors: Eltahir Sawsan B. , Ali Ismat H. , Sulfab Yousif
Published: August 2021

The kinetics of oxidation of [CrIIICl2(phen)(H2O)2]Cl⋅2H2O (phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline) by periodate {I(VII)} have been studied in aqueous acidic solutions. The oxidation product has been isolated and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, and ESR as [CrVCl2(phen)(O)]Cl⋅1.5H2O. Under pseudo–first‐order conditions, the reaction showed first‐order dependence on the initial Cr(III) complex concentration. At fixed reaction conditions, the dependence of kobs on [I(VII)] showed saturation kinetics. The rate constant, kobs, increased with increasing pH, indicating that the hydroxo form of the chromium(III) complex is the most reactive species. A plot of kobs([H+] + K1) versus [H+] is linear with an intercept, indicating that the reaction proceeds via two parallel pathways. One pathway is independent of [H+] and the other on [H+]–1. Since water is known to be a very weak bridging ligand, the pathway involving the aqua form of the complex, almost certainly, is bridged to periodate via the chloro ligand of the chromium(III) complex. The thermodynamic parameters of the processes involved are reported. A one‐step two‐electron transfer via an inner‐sphere mechanism has been assigned to the two pathways based on the form of the rate law
Kinetic study on the reaction of p‐tert‐butylbenzoic acid with methanol catalyzed by deep eutectic solvent based on choline chloride
Authors: Guo Yuan , Tang Linmao , Xue Weilan , Zeng Zuoxiang
Published: August 2021

The synthesis of methyl p‐tert‐butylbenzoate using deep eutectic solvent (DES) as a green catalyst was studied in this work. Four DESs were prepared by combining choline chloride (ChCl) and p‐toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate (PTSA) with different molar ratios (1:1–3). It was found that ChCl‐1.5PTSA with a molar ratio of 1:1.5 was superior to other DESs both in physical properties and catalytic performance. Therefore, it was selected to carry out the kinetic experiments. The effects of stirring speed, temperature, molar ratio of methanol to p‐tert‐butylbenzoic acid, and catalyst loading on the conversion of p‐tert‐butylbenzoic acid were discussed. In addition, the reaction kinetics of p‐tert‐butylbenzoic acid and methanol with ChCl‐1.5PTSA as catalyst was explored in the temperature range of 332.15–349.15 K, and the experimental data were well fitted by pseudo‐homogeneous model. Moreover, the recyclability of ChCl‐1.5PTSA was evaluated. The result shows that the catalyst could be easily separated from the reaction system without any extractant, and the performance of the catalyst remains stable in multiple times recycling. Therefore, ChCl‐1.5PTSA is expected to be an efficient and environmentally friendly catalyst for the methyl esterification of p‐tert‐butylbenzoic acid with a bright future in industrial application.
Vestibular‐Evoked Myogenic Potential Outcomes Associated with Pediatric Sports‐Related Concussion
Authors: Rodriguez Amanda I. , Chiao Jonathan , Spencer Gretchen
Published: August 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To 1) characterize vestibular‐evoked myogenic potential responses in children and young adults with sports‐related concussion (SRC) histories as compared with a normal healthy control group, and 2) correlate VEMP characteristics to SRC/sport history outcomes.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Seventy‐six children and young adults with and without a history of SRC received cervical and ocular VEMP testing using a 500 Hz tone burst air conduction stimuli. VEMP response parameters (response rates, peak latencies, and peak‐to‐peak amplitudes) were assessed. Other clinical vestibular measures were performed. In the SRC group, sport history outcomes including number of SRC sustained over a lifetime, years of playing contact sports, and length of time playing contact sports were collected via in‐person questionnaire.

Results

Children and young adults with SRC had significantly reduced oVEMP responses and peak‐to‐peak amplitudes and greater amplitude response asymmetries between left and right ear. There was no effect of group on cVEMP findings. A greater frequency of SRCs sustained throughout a lifetime, a greater number of contact sports played, and a longer duration of playing a contact sport correlated with significantly poorer VEMP response characteristics.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that SRC and repeated subclinical head impact events have an effect on oVEMP outcomes. SRC may affect the utricle, superior vestibular nerve, and/or brainstem‐mediated vestibular‐ocular‐reflex pathway. The prevalence of post‐concussion‐related dizziness is becoming increasingly common in a pediatric‐otology clinic, thus performing VEMP testing in youth post‐SRC provides an objective, noninvasive, and cost‐effective method for monitoring the effects of sports‐related impact on the vestibular system and related neural pathways.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:436–442, 2022
Radiological Assessment of High Anterior Septal Deviation and Its Impact on Sinus Access
Authors: Lee Joshua A. , Wu Victoria , Ozgen Burce , Joe Stephanie A. , Lee Victoria S.
Published: August 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

High anterior septal deviation (HASD) is an underreported anatomic variant that can affect the decision to perform septoplasty for access during sinus surgery and ease of postoperative debridement. This study aims to 1) describe an objective method of assessing HASD, and 2) explore its prevalence and implications for performing septoplasty.

Study Design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Computed tomography scans from 2014 to 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Two independent observers measured the following with respect to midline: distance to septum (SDD), distance to lateral nasal wall (LNW), and septal deviation angle (SDA).

Results

A total of 147 patients were included, with excellent interrater reliability across 99 patients (0.8–0.9). Mean measurements across all patients were SDD (2.77 mm ± 1.34), SDD/LNW (0.26 ± 0.12), and SDA (8.9° ± 4.0). Of 102 patients who underwent sinus surgery, 47 received septoplasty. Compared to the non‐septoplasty cohort, the septoplasty cohort had a greater mean SDD (3.61 mm ± 1.48 vs. 2.27 mm ± 0.95; d = 1.10 [95% CI 0.67–1.51]), SDD/LNW (0.34 ± 0.13 vs. 0.21 ± 0.09; d = 1.18 [95% CI 0.76–1.60]), and SDA (11.1° ± 4.3 vs. 7.3° ± 3.4; d = 1.00 [95% CI 0.58–1.40]). Receiver operating characteristic cutoffs were SDD ≥2.43 mm, SDD/LNW ≥0.25, and SDA ≥7.6°, corresponding to a 49%–58% prevalence of HASD.

Conclusion

HASD is relatively common and the methods described herein can reliably assess its dimensions. Measurements of SDD, SDD/LNW, and SDA exceeding cutoffs determined by this study may represent clinically significant deflections prompting consideration of septoplasty. These methods may aid in preoperative planning.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:1166–1171, 2022
Evaluating YouTube Videos on Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation as a Resource for Patients
Authors: Xiao Kevin , Campbell Daniel , Mastrolonardo Eric , Boon Maurits , Huntley Colin
Published: August 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

This study evaluated the quality and comprehensiveness of YouTube videos on hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) for patients. This study also investigated the relationship between video content, video metrics, and popularity.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

We identified 150 videos using three search terms: “inspire sleep apnea,” “hypoglossal nerve stimulation,” and “upper airway stimulation.” Videos that were unrelated to the use of HNS for obstructive sleep apnea in adults, operating room recordings, lectures for medical professionals, non‐English, or non‐audio were excluded. Video quality and comprehensiveness were assessed using modified DISCERN criterion (range: 5–25) and novel content criterion (range: 0–12), respectively. Secondary outcomes included video metrics (views, likes, dislikes, comments, and days since upload) and Video Power Index to measure popularity. Outcomes were stratified by video uploader source (medical institutions, medical companies, individual users, other).

Results

Users searched YouTube for “inspire sleep apnea” 2.48 times more in 2020 than in 2018. We identified 67 videos for review, with the majority coming from medical institutions (70.2%). Overall, the average‐modified DISCERN (13.65 ± 4.88) and novel content (3.87 ± 2.09) scores were low and did not differ between medical institutions or other uploader sources. Higher quality and more comprehensive video content did not correlate with popularity.

Conclusion

Overall quality and comprehensiveness of information of HNS YouTube videos was low. Given the high demand for information on HNS, there is opportunity for medical institutions to implement new strategies to improve both video content and visibility to patients.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 131:E2827–E2832, 2021
The main driving factors and responses to increase in soil available potassium in the Yangtze River basin over the past 30 years
Authors: Zhu Dan‐Dan , Li Zhi‐Hong , Guo Li‐Xuan , Lu Jian‐Wei , Cong Ri‐Huan , Ren Tao , Li Xiao‐Kun
Published: August 2021

Intensive crop rotation is one of the main causes of the continued depletion in soil potassium (K) content in the Yangtze River basin (YRB). However, recent studies have shown that soil K content is increasing in the YRB. Therefore, in this study, experimental and statistical data were collected to evaluate the soil K changes caused by K fertilizer application and straw return across the YRB. The results showed that soil available K increased, on average, by 21.7% across the YRB as a result of balanced K fertilization and an increasing proportion of straw return. From 1990 to 2019, K fertilizer input has increased from 10.1% to 24.1%, respectively. Meanwhile, from 2003 to 2011, the proportion of straw return increased by 32.8%. Considering these changes, we evaluated the effect of K fertilizer application and straw return on the soil K status. Overall, crop yield and soil available K increased by 9.9%, 7.3%, 16.3%, and 42.5%, 23.8%, and 66.4%, respectively, with K fertilization, straw return, and the concurrent use of both practices. Further, a synergistic increase in indigenous K input and soil available K alleviated the soil K negative balance and reduced the soil K fixation rate. In general, balanced K fertilization and an increasing proportion of straw return are the most vital measures for realizing the sustainable development of soil K across the YRB. The results of this research will provide useful information for sustainable K management and incentive policymaking.
Leaching efficiency and plant growth response in an integrated use of saline water for coastal saline soil reclamation
Authors: Zhang Chen , Li Xiaobin , Kang Yaohu , Wahba Mohamed A. S.
Published: August 2021

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate an integrated use of saline water for saline soil reclamation around Bohai Bay in China. A landscape shrub (Caryopteris × clandonensis 'Worcester Gold') was cultivated and irrigated with five water salinities (ECi): 0.8, 3.1, 4.7, 6.3, and 7.8 dS m−1. Drip irrigation was scheduled by evolving soil matric potential thresholds of −5, −10, −15, and −20 kPa in 4 years. A gravel‐sand layer as subsurface drainage was installed at 1.0 m depth. After 4 years, the extremely saline soil (ECe of 27.8 dS m−1) for 0–1.0 m depth was reclaimed to moderately saline soil (ECe of 4.1–7.2 dS m−1). The decreases in survival rate, growth, and shoot dry weight of the plants as increasing ECi were observed. To achieve a relative survival rate of >50%, the ECi thresholds for plants were 7.8, 6.9, 5.5, and 5.3 dS m−1 for the 4 years, respectively. The quantificationally estimating root zone drainage and salt leaching efficiency indicated that more efficient salt leaching offered by ECi up to 3.1 dS m−1 in comparison with freshwater with ECi of 0.8 dS m−1 and less efficiency occurred at ECi > 6.3 dS m−1. The plants strongly responded to the different soil water and salinity regime in the dynamic leaching process, as thus it is recommended to use an inter‐seasonal evolving matric potential threshold of −10 kPa for dry season of the third year, −15 kPa for rainy season and following dry season for providing optimized soil water and salinity condition.
Lake networks and connectivity metrics for the conterminous U.S. (LAGOS‐US NETWORKS v1)
Authors: King Katelyn B. S. , Wang Qi , Rodriguez Lauren K. , Cheruvelil Kendra S.
Published: August 2021

Identifying lake networks and knowing the degree of surface‐water connectivity among lakes can help scientists better understand and predict the movement of abiotic materials and biota within networks. Quantifying broad‐scale networks that include lake and stream connections is difficult computationally. Starting from the medium resolution National Hydrography Dataset's lakes, streams, and rivers, we applied a graph theory approach to identify lake networks, a set of lakes connected by streams both upstream and downstream. The LAGOS‐US NETWORKS v1 module contains four data tables, one of which includes derived surface‐water connectivity metrics for lakes (n = 86,511 lakes ≥ 1 ha in surface area) and networks (n = 898) within the conterminous United States, including dams. The NETWORKS module also includes a flow table as well as a bidirectional and a unidirectional distance table that provide the stream course distances between every connected lake. Finally, this module includes a detailed User Guide.
A comparison of water quality sensor deployment designs in wadeable streams
Authors: Hensley Robert , Harrison Nicolas , Goodman Keli , Cawley Kaelin , Litt Guy , Nance Bryce , Catolico Nora
Published: August 2021

The design of infrastructure used for deploying water quality sensors can potentially impact data quality. Despite this, sensor infrastructure design has not been well discussed in the peer‐reviewed literature. Here, we present side‐by‐side measurements from two contrasting designs; a “monopod” consisting of a strut driven into the streambed and a downrigger suspended from an “overhead cable.” We collected measurements over an approximately 6‐month period from two wadeable stream monitoring sites within the National Ecological Observatory Network. In general, we observed minimal differences between measurements, suggesting both designs to be viable options from a data quality perspective under normal operating conditions. However, the monopod design was more susceptible to coming out of the water during low stage and burial by sedimentation. While more expensive and logistically complex to install, the overhead cable design exhibited greater survivability, adjustability, and serviceability. We discuss additional design considerations and potential modifications that we hope will prove useful to other researchers in instrumenting their own sites.
The state of the art of biomedical applications of optogenetics
Authors: Keshmiri Neghab Hoda , Soheilifar Mohammad Hasan , Grusch Michael , Ortega Manoela Marques , Esmaeeli Djavid Gholamreza , Saboury Ali Akbar , Goliaei Bahram
Published: August 2021

Background and objective

Optogenetics has opened new insights into biomedical research with the ability to manipulate and control cellular activity using light in combination with genetically engineered photosensitive proteins. By stimulating with light, this method provides high spatiotemporal and high specificity resolution, which is in contrast to conventional pharmacological or electrical stimulation. Optogenetics was initially introduced to control neural activities but was gradually extended to other biomedical fields.

Study design

In this paper, firstly, we summarize the current optogenetic tools stimulated by different light sources, including lasers, light‐emitting diodes, and laser diodes. Second, we outline the variety of biomedical applications of optogenetics not only for neuronal circuits but also for various kinds of cells and tissues from cardiomyocytes to ganglion cells. Furthermore, we highlight the potential of this technique for treating neurological disorders, cardiac arrhythmia, visual impairment, hearing loss, and urinary bladder diseases as well as clarify the mechanisms underlying cancer progression and control of stem cell differentiation.

Conclusion

We sought to summarize the various types of promising applications of optogenetics to treat a broad spectrum of disorders. It is conceivable to expect that optogenetics profits a growing number of patients suffering from a range of different diseases in the near future.
Correlations Between Precursor Molecular Weight and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Polyborosiloxane (PBS)
Authors: Kurkin Anatoli , Lipik Vitali , Tan Kevin Bo Lin , Seah Geok Leng , Zhang Xin , Tok Alfred Iing Yoong
Published: August 2021

It is possible to tailor the dynamic response of polyborosiloxanes (PBS) based on picking the right molecular weight of a precursor. The molecular weight of hydroxy‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) defines the shear‐stiffening performance of PBS due to straightforward condensation reaction between hydroxy end groups of PDMS and boric acid. Introduced borono groups behave as stickers, hence, are prone to supramolecular interactions. New correlations are discovered for five PBS synthesized from hydroxy‐terminated PDMS with different molecular weights. Si─O─B infrared band intensities for all PBS follow the same trend with molecular weight as the number of PDMS hydroxy groups which confirms the full completion of the reaction. After synthesis, the molecular weight of PBSs remained almost the same, which indicates the absence of significant chain scissoring, polymerization, or crosslinking. During the rheological analysis, it is found that crossover point modulus follows the same trend as the number of PDMS hydroxy groups and Si─O─B band intensities. PBS demonstrates a linear increase in peak forces with molecular weight during the drop weight impact test. The low molecular weight of a precursor, hence, a high number of stickers is a primary requirement for effective protection against low‐velocity impact.
PAN/FPU Composite Nanofiber Membrane with Superhydrophobic and Superoleophobic Surface as a Filter Element for High‐Efficiency Protective Masks
Authors: Xiong Junpeng , Shao Weili , Wang Ling , Cui Chen , Jin Yurui , Yu Hongqin , Han Pengju , Gao Yanfei , Liu Fan , Ni Qingqing , He Jianxin
Published: August 2021

Recently, because of the outbreak of COVID‐19, the demand for various types of filter elements in protective materials has increased globally. Furthermore, new requirements for the filtration performance of PM2.5 liquid (oil) particles have been put forward. In this work, Superhydrophobic and superoleophobic composite nanofibers with excellent filtration capacity for oil and salt particles are developed through the modification of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) by fluoro‐polyurethane (FPU) doping. The results show that the PAN/FPU composite nanofibers doped with 9 wt% FPU has a uniform fiber morphology with a diameter of 240 ± 30 nm. Compared to the pure PAN nanofibers, the water‐based contact angle of PAN/FPU increases from 90 ± 5° to 151 ± 5°, and the oil‐based contact angle increases from 58 ± 2° to 152 ± 3°. Importantly, at a high flow rate of 95 L min−1, the filtration efficiency of the PAN/FPU nanofiber membrane for 0.3 µm oil particles increases from 92 ± 1% to 99.2 ± 0.1%. After cyclic loading, the filtration efficiency of 0.3 µm oil particles remains above 98%. Meanwhile, the filtration efficiency for 0.3 µm salt particles remains at 98.23 ± 0.1%. The PAN/FPU nanofiber membrane developed in this work is effective in applications and has good market prospects as a protective filtration material.
On‐Demand Therapy for OFF Episodes in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Olanow C. Warren , Poewe Werner , Rascol Olivier , Stocchi Fabrizio
Published: August 2021

Levodopa is the most effective therapy for Parkinson's disease; however, chronic treatment is associated with the development of OFF episodes, in which there is a return of parkinsonian features following a dose of levodopa and prior to the onset of benefit from the subsequent dose. OFF episodes can be a major source of disability for PD patients and frequently result in depression, apathy and an unwillingness to participate in social activities. Most currently available medical and surgical therapies are designed to reduce total daily OFF time but do not provide a rapid and reliable “on‐demand” therapy for individual OFF episodes. Indeed, responses to individual doses of levodopa during an acute OFF episode are unreliable, frequently leading to partial‐ON, delayed‐ON, or no‐ON responses even at different times in the same patient. There are now 3 therapies that are available for the on‐demand treatment of OFF episodes; subcutaneous injection of apomorphine, sublingual apomorphine film, and inhaled levodopa. The first has not enjoyed widespread use in the PD community, whereas the latter 2 therapies have only recently been approved. This review will consider the currently available on‐demand therapies and their potential advantages and disadvantages. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Stochastic generation and suppression of early afterdepolarizations in a three‐dimensional model of cardiac action potential
Authors: Slepukhina Evdokiia , Bashkirtseva Irina , Kügler Philipp , Ryashko Lev
Published: August 2021

The influence of random disturbances on a three‐dimensional simplification of Luo–Rudy model of the cardiac action potential is studied. We show that in the parameter region, where the deterministic model is in the equilibrium regime, noise can trigger large‐amplitude oscillations that correspond with pathological early afterdepolarizations (EADs). For this stochastic excitement, the phenomenon of coherence resonance was discovered. On the contrary, in another parameter zone of the model, noise can suppress EADs. We analyze these stochastic phenomena using the stochastic sensitivity functions technique, Mahalanobis distance, the methods of principal directions, and confidence domains.
Uncertainty principles for the two‐sided offset quaternion linear canonical transform
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyu , Zheng Shenzhou
Published: August 2021

The offset quaternion linear canonical transform (OQLCT) provides a more general framework for a number of linear integral transforms in signal processing and optics, such as quaternion Fourier transform (QFT), fractional quaternion Fourier transform (FrQFT), and linear canonical transform (QLCT). We devote this paper to various different of uncertainty principles (UPs) for the two‐sided OQLCT, which including logarithmic UP, Heisenberg‐type UP, Hardy's UP, Beurling's UP, Entropic UP, Donoho‐Stark's UP, and Local UP. Moreover, we also prove Lieb's UP for the two‐sided short‐time offset quaternion linear canonical transform (SOQLCT).
Semi‐analytical solution for one‐dimensional consolidation of a two‐layered soil system with unsaturated and saturated conditions
Authors: Li Linzhong , Qin Aifang , Jiang Lianghua
Published: August 2021

Semi‐analytical solutions to one‐dimensional (1D) consolidation of the two‐layered soils are developed in this paper that can consider a two‐layered soil system with unsaturated upper soils and saturated lower soils. In this case, the upper soil layer remains the water‐air two‐phase flows, while the lower soil layer only involves the flow of the water phase. Based on the assumptions made in the 1D consolidation framework for saturated and unsaturated soils, the analytical solutions in the transformation space for the consolidation model are derived using a decoupling technique and the Laplace transformation. Subsequently, following the Crump algorithm, the numerical inverse Laplace transformation is carried for the related semi‐analytical results that can analyze the consolidation characteristics of the two‐layered soils in the time domain. Furthermore, two typical cases for saturated soils in the literature are shown to examine the methodology and final solutions. Finally, results of a case study in this paper indicate that the excess pore pressures within the unsaturated soil layer near the interface are significantly affected by the water flow in the saturated soil layer, and that the final primary consolidation settlement of soils would be overestimated if the unsaturated condition of upper soils is ignored.
Impact of knowledge on the cost of treasure hunt in trees
Authors: Bouchard Sébastien , Labourel Arnaud , Pelc Andrzej
Published: August 2021

Treasure hunt is finding a hidden inert target by a mobile agent. We consider deterministic algorithms for treasure hunt in trees. Our goal is to establish the impact of different kinds of initial knowledge given to the agent on the cost of treasure hunt, defined as the total number of edge traversals until the agent reaches the treasure. The agent can be initially given either a complete map of the tree rooted at its starting node, with all port numbers marked, or a blind map of the tree rooted at its starting node but without port numbers. It may also be given, or not, the distance from the root to the treasure. This yields four different knowledge types that are partially ordered by their precision. The penalty of a less precise knowledge type over a more precise knowledge type measures intuitively the worst‐case ratio of the cost of an algorithm supplied with knowledge of type over the cost of an algorithm supplied with knowledge of type . Our main results establish penalties for comparable knowledge types in this partial order. For knowledge types with known distance, the penalty for having a blind map over a complete map turns out to be very large. By contrast, for unknown distance, the penalty of having a blind map over having a complete map is small. When a map is provided (either complete or blind), the penalty of not knowing the distance over knowing it is medium.
Symmetric tensor decomposition by alternating gradient descent
Authors: Liu Haixia
Published: August 2021

Thesymmetric tensor decompositionproblem is a fundamental problem in many fields, which appealing for investigation. In general, greedy algorithm is used for tensor decomposition. That is, we first find the largest singular value and singular vector and subtract the corresponding component from tensor, then repeat the process. In this article, we focus on designing one effective algorithm and giving its convergence analysis. We introduce an exceedingly simple and fast algorithm for rank‐one approximation of symmetric tensor decomposition. Throughout variable splitting, we solve symmetric tensor decomposition problem by minimizing a multiconvex optimization problem. We use alternating gradient descent algorithm to solve. Although we focus on symmetric tensors in this article, the method can be extended to nonsymmetric tensors in some cases. Additionally, we also give some theoretical analysis about our alternating gradient descent algorithm. We prove that alternating gradient descent algorithm converges linearly to global minimizer. We also provide numerical results to show the effectiveness of the algorithm.