bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep water cuspate stromatolites of the Cryogenian Trezona Formation
Authors: O'Connell Brennan , Wallace Malcolm W. , Hood Ashleigh v.S. , Rebbechi Luke , Brooks Hannah L.
Published: December 2021

Stromatolites and microbialites contain a rich repository of environmental and biological information. Despite extensive research, questions remain regarding the biological, chemical, and physical processes that control stromatolite macro, meso, and microstructure. We report unusual deep water cuspate stromatolites from the Cryogenian Trezona Formation, South Australia, from a mixed siliciclastic–carbonate open marine ramp setting. Cuspate stromatolite horizons develop near the base of decameter‐scale transgression–regression cycles and typically overlie decimeter‐scale irregular erosion surfaces. The cuspate structure within the stromatolites form near vertical, stacked cusp structures in cross section. In plan view, the cusps form cm‐scale sharp parallel ridges oriented perpendicular to the regional downslope direction and perpendicular to the elongation direction of stromatolites. Stromatolites colonized topographic highs of irregular erosion surfaces (often hardgrounds) and grew in carbonate supersaturated, iron‐rich marine waters in low turbidity sediment‐starved settings. Cuspate stromatolites are interpreted as forming in deep water environments during maximum transgression as condensed intervals. Their microbial metabolism may require low light and low oxygen. A deep water origin for the Trezona Formation cuspate stromatolites and other Precambrian cuspate stromatolites suggests a link between the cuspate morphology and physical/chemical (carbonate supersaturated, low light, and low oxygen) conditions of Precambrian deep water marine settings.
Oral function and nutritional status in non‐acute hospitalised elders
Authors: Ohta Midori , Imamura Yoshiki , Chebib Najla , Schulte‐Eickhoff Regina Maria , Allain Sandrine , Genton Laurence , Mojon Philippe , Graf Christophe , Ueda Takayuki , Müller Frauke
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Malnutrition and risk of malnutrition continues to be a common finding in elders, yet its association with oral function in hospitalised patients remains unclear.

Material and methods

Patients aged 70 years or over who had been hospitalised for non‐acute rehabilitation were recruited. Nutritional risk was screened using the Mini‐Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA‐SF) and Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) scores. Malnutrition was assessed according to the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria. All participants underwent the oral hypofunction test battery, evaluating oral hygiene, oral dryness, occlusal force, tongue‐lip motor function, tongue pressure, masticatory and swallowing function. Statistical analyses comprised Mann‐Whitney or Kruskal‐Wallis tests. Bivariate associations between categorical variables were tested using the Pearson chi‐square test; for continuous variables, the Spearman correlation was calculated. A P‐value < .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Sixty patients aged a mean 82.5 ± 7.0 years participated. Some 88.3% were diagnosed with oral hypofunction, and this was more common in older patients (P = .020). Analysing the 7 oral hypofunction tests as an interval variable (NiOF) revealed additional correlations with number of teeth (ρ = 0.477) as well as the nutritional risk, evaluated by the MNA‐SF (ρ = −0.284) and NRS (ρ = 0.317) scores. NiOF scores were higher among denture wearers (P = .003). GLIM did not confirm the correlation with NiOF. Biomarkers such as serum albumin and CRP were not associated with the NiOF score.

Conclusion

In this sample, the association between oral function and nutritional state is more obvious in nutritional risk scores than in the malnutrition diagnosis by GLIM.
Hyperprogressive disease in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab therapy
Authors: Maesaka Kazuki , Sakamori Ryotaro , Yamada Ryoko , Tahata Yuki , Imai Yasuharu , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Miyazaki Masanori , Mita Eiji , Ito Toshifumi , Hagiwara Hideki , Yakushijin Takayuki , Kodama Takahiro , Hikita Hayato , Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: December 2021

Background

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab was approved for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients in 2020, but treatment outcomes of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab in real‐world settings remain unclear. Hyperprogressive disease (HPD), an acceleration of tumor growth occurring in some types of malignancies treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, was assessed in HCC patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab.

Methods

Tumor growth kinetics (TGK) and tumor growth rate (TGR) were calculated at pre‐ and post‐treatment in 88 Japanese patients with HCC receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab. Hyperprogressive disease was defined as progressive disease (PD) with ≥ two‐fold increase in TGK and TGR. The association of baseline characteristics with HPD was analyzed.

Results

The best objective responses were partial response, stable disease, and PD in 12 (13.6%), 51 (58.0%), and 25 (28.4%) patients, respectively. The median progression‐free survival was 5.0 months. Eleven (12.5%) and 9 (10.2%) patients had a TGK ratio and a TGR ratio of ≥2, respectively. Hyperprogressive disease was observed in nine patients (10.2%) and they showed significantly shorter overall survival than patients without HPD (median, 4.3 months vs. not reached; p < 0.001). Patients with HPD had larger and more intrahepatic tumors, higher levels of α‐fetoprotein and lactate dehydrogenase, and higher neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) at baseline than patients without HPD. NLR of ≥3 at baseline was identified as the only independent factor associated with HPD in multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Hyperprogressive disease was observed in 10.2% of HCC patients receiving atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, and an elevated NLR at baseline had an increased risk of HPD.
The impact on the quality of life caused by the early loss of primary molars
Authors: Feu Daniela , Lessa Fernanda Campos Rosetti , Barcellos Ludmilla Awad , Goulart Mariél de Aquino , Grillo Claudia Bermudes , Freitas Licia Aguilar
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Evidence regarding the impact of early loss of primary molars (ELPM) on Oral Health‐Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) is lacking. The aim of the present study was evaluating the impact of ELPM on OHRQoL of Brazilian schoolchildren aged 6–10 years.

Methods

This observational prospective cohort study was conducted with 163 schoolchildren, assigned in the primary tooth loss group (PTLG), in which all tooth loss was caused by carious lesions, and in a control group without tooth loss (CG). Two calibrated examiners conducted the clinical oral assessments to determine caries experience and tooth loss. OHRQoL was assessed using the Child Perception Questionnaire 8–10 years (CPQ8‐10) instrument administered at baseline and at 10–12 months of follow‐up.

Results

Children in PTLG exhibited significantly more negative impact on OHRQoL at baseline (p < 0.01) than CG, and also after the follow‐up period (p < 0.01). It was also possible to observe a significant reduction in the negative impact on OHRQoL in both CG and PTLG in the longitudinal analysis (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, there was an even more substantial reduction in the negative impact on OHRQoL in children in PTLG.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that early tooth loss is associated with negative impact on OHRQoL. Moreover, it indicates that access to dental treatment can have a positive impact on the OHRQoL of children with dental caries and ELPM.
Characterisation of O/W emulsions encapsulating ergocalciferol using onion skin waste saponins: insights on formulation and release properties
Authors: Dahlawi Saad M. , Akhtar Aqsa , Nazir Wahab , Ahmed Zaheer , Khalid Nauman
Published: December 2021

The study was conducted to produce ergocalciferol (Vit‐D2) loaded oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions utilising the onion skin waste saponins (OSW) as a natural emulsifier and almond oil as carrier oil. The impact of different formulations upon the digestibility of lipids, LCT (long‐chain triglycerides) or MCT (medium‐chain triglycerides), and bioaccessibility of Vit‐D2 was analysed. The mean particle size diameter of almond oil‐based O/W emulsions was decreased with increasing homogenisation pressure and emulsifier concentration. During 120 mins of digestion in small intestinal fluids (SIF), almond oil in high‐lipid emulsions (5% w/w) was not fully digested, resulting in a lower bioaccessibility of ergocalciferol than low‐lipid samples. Almond oil emulsions with larger particle size have a slower rate of lipid digestion than the smaller size particles, but the release rate of free fatty acids was constant throughout the digestion process. Moreover, almond oil emulsions showed similar Vit‐D2 bioaccessibility to the oil‐based emulsions but were much higher than MCTs.
Synthesis, characterisation, antioxidant and antibacterial properties of p‐hydroxybenzoic acid‐grafted chitosan conjugates
Authors: Wang Jiaolong , Jiang Zhiguo
Published: December 2021

In this study, p‐hydroxybenzoic acid‐grafted chitosan (PA‐g‐CS) conjugates with different grafting degrees were synthesised by free radical‐regulated grafting approach. The obtained PA‐g‐CS conjugates were characterised by UV–Vis spectra, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) spectra, X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Results revealed that PA was successfully grafted onto the hydroxyl group and the amino group positions of CS. Compared with CS, PA‐g‐CS showed decreased crystallinity, thermal stability, as well as a loose and porous surface morphology. The antioxidant assays demonstrated that PA‐g‐CS exhibited remarkably enhanced 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐pyridohydrazino‐ and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6)‐sulfonic acid‐scavenging activities in vitro. Similarly, the synthesised PA‐g‐CS also significantly increased the antimicrobial activities towards gram negative and positive bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, the products with a relatively higher grafting degree showed stronger biological activities. Our findings suggest that PA‐g‐CS conjugates have great potential application in the field of active packaging, antioxidants and preservatives.
Scale‐type‐specific requirement for the mosquito Aedes aegyptiSpindle‐F homologue by regulating microtubule organization
Authors: Djokic Sanja , Bakhrat Anna , Li Ming , Akbari Omar S. , Abdu Uri
Published: December 2021

Insect epithelial cells contain unique cellular extensions such as bristles, hairs, and scales. In contrast to bristle and hair, which are not divergent in their shape, scale morphology shows high diversity. In our attempt to characterize the role of the insect‐specific gene, Spindle‐F (spn‐F), in mosquito development, we revealed a scale‐type specific requirement for the mosquito Aedes aegypti spn‐F homologue. Using CRISPR‐Cas9, we generated Ae‐spn‐F mutants and found that Ae‐spn‐F is an essential gene, but we were able to recover a few adult escapers. These escapers could not fly nor move, and died after 3 to 4 days. We found that in Ae‐spn‐F mutants, only the tip part of the bristle was affected with bulbous with misoriented ribs. We also show that in Ae‐spn‐F mutants, only in falcate scales, which are curved with a sharp or narrowly rounded apex, and not in other scale types, the tip region is strongly affected. Our analysis also revealed that in contrast to Drosophila spn‐F, which show strong defects in both the actin and microtubule (MT) network in the bristle, the Ae‐spn‐F gene is required only for MT organization in scales and bristles. In summary, our results reveal that Ae‐spn‐F is required for shaping tapered epithelial cellular extension structures, namely, the bristle and falcate scales by affecting MT organization.
Highly sensitive optical thermometer of Sm3+, Mn4+ activated LaGaO3 phosphor for the regulated thermal behavior
Authors: Li Ziyang , Yu Xue , Wang Ting , Wang Shaoqing , Guo Longchao , Cui Zhenzhen , Yan Guilong , Feng Wei , Zhao Feng , Chen Jiaqi , Xu Xuhui , Qiu Jianbei
Published: December 2021

Sm3+, Mn4+ co‐activated LaGaO3 phosphors, giving the characteristic emissions of orange and red emission simultaneously, were prepared by a solid‐state reaction. Their luminescence properties, energy transfer behavior, thermal stability, and ratiometric temperature sensing performance were investigated. Thanks to the inhibition of energy transfer between Sm3+ and Mn4+ ions at high temperature and the reconstruction of the traps, the distinct optical behavior of the involved activators dependent on the ambient temperature was evaluated. Anti‐thermal quenching performance of Sm3+ ions along with the emission declination of Mn4+ ions was observed. Hence, the optical thermometry characteristics of the resultant phosphor based on the fluorescent intensity ratio (orange/red) realize a recorded temperature sensitivity of 4.19% K−1 and 2.09% K−1. Moreover, the as‐explored film combined with the LaGaO3: Sm3+, Mn4+ phosphor is demonstrated to be a promising multi‐color optical thermometer.
Estimate of Strouhal and Reynolds numbers for swimming penguins
Authors: Masud M. H. , La Mantia M. , Dabnichki P.
Published: December 2021

Propulsion performance of swimming and flying animals is often evaluated by using dimensionless numbers, such as the Strouhal and Reynolds numbers. They have been shown to allow a better understanding of locomotion efficiency, using relatively simple approaches and avoiding overly complex computational models. Specifically, it has been reported that efficient propulsion is more likely to occur when Strouhal number values – estimated from propulsive frequencies and amplitudes – are within a relatively narrow range, depending on the corresponding Reynolds number, broadly expressing the fluid resistance to the animal motion. We have estimated both Strouhal and Reynolds numbers for seven species of penguins after analysing relevant kinematic data taken from the literature. The obtained values neatly indicate that, as expected, penguins employ efficient propulsion mechanisms. Additionally, by comparing these values with those for alcids – seabirds that can also fly – we have found that penguins swim at least as efficiently as alcids. However, we have also found that the swimming number – proportional to the product of Strouhal and Reynolds numbers – neatly correlates to the diving abilities of the considered species and apparently indicates, in a straightforward hierarchical manner, the gains in diving due to the loss of flying abilities. Within the penguin species, a clear correlation is also observed between diving performance and drag coefficient values.
Exceptionally high apparent adult survival in three tropical species of plovers in Madagascar
Authors: Jones William , Eberhart‐Hertel Luke J. , Freckleton Robert P. , Hoffman Joseph I. , Krüger Oliver , Sandercock Brett K. , Vincze Orsolya , Zefania Sama , Székely Tamás
Published: December 2021

Adult survival is a key component of population dynamics, and understanding variation in and the drivers of adult survival rates and longevity is critical for ecological and evolutionary studies, as well as for conservation biology and practice. Tropical species of landbirds are often selected to have higher adult survival due to high nest predation rates, but it is unclear if the same patterns occur in other avian lineages with different life history strategies. Here, we investigate adult survival of three sympatrically breeding species of shorebirds in south‐west Madagascar: the endemic and endangered Madagascar plover Charadrius thoracicus and two more widely distributed African species: the white‐fronted plover C. marginatus and the Kittlitz's plover C. pecuarius. Using mark–recapture data from 1843 individuals breeding at an intensely monitored saltmarsh over a 13‐year period, we estimated annual rates of apparent survival (φ) corrected for encounter probability. Adult apparent survival rates were high for all three species (mean ± SE): Madagascar (φ = 0.899 ± 0.010) and white‐fronted plovers (φ = 0.923 ± 0.008). Kittlitz's plovers showed a difference between the first (φ1 = 0.719 ± 0.026) and subsequent transitions (φ2+ = 0.892 ± 0.014), suggesting that transient breeders are common in this species. For birds first captured as adults, these survival estimates translate to life expectancies of 9.72 (±1.11) years in Kittlitz's plovers, 9.36 (±0.98) years in Madagascar plovers and 12.48 (±1.32) in white‐fronted plovers. We hypothesise that a long lifespan could be an adaptation arising from the unique climatic pressures on the island of Madagascar that would otherwise lead to reduced fitness. However, long lifespans may not sufficiently compensate for a reduction in breeding opportunities due to possible climatic disruption in the future. Consequently, at least two of these plover species seem vulnerable to ongoing habitat destruction and changing climate cycles.
C1632 suppresses the migration and proliferation of non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells involving LIN28 and FGFR1 pathway
Authors: Chen Jing‐yi , Chen Yu‐jing , Liu Lu , Jin Xiang‐xiang , Shen Zhe , Chen Wen‐bin , Yang Teng , Xu Si‐bei , Wang Guang‐bao , Cheng Yi‐nuo , Cheng De‐zhi , Liu Zhi‐guo , Zheng Xiao‐hui
Published: December 2021

Chemoresistance and migration represent major obstacles in the therapy of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for approximately 85% of lung cancer patients in clinic. In the present study, we report that the compound C1632 is preferentially distributed in the lung after oral administration in vivo with high bioavailability and limited inhibitory effects on CYP450 isoenzymes. We found that C1632 could simultaneously inhibit the expression of LIN28 and block FGFR1 signalling transduction in NSCLC A549 and A549R cells, resulting in significant decreases in the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐9. Consequently, C1632 effectively inhibited the migration and invasion of A549 and A549R cells. Meanwhile, C1632 significantly suppressed the cell viability and the colony formation of A549 and A549R cells by inhibiting DNA replication and inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Interestingly, compared with A549 cells, C1632 possesses the same or even better anti‐migration and anti‐proliferation effects on A549R cells, regardless of drug resistance. In addition, C1632 also displayed the capacity to inhibit the growth of A549R xenograft tumours in mice. Altogether, these findings reveal the potential of C1632 as a promising anti‐NSCLC agent, especially for chemotherapy‐resistant NSCLC treatment.
Perception, experience and relationship with food and eating in adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Barrett Joanne , Slatter Georgina , Whitehouse Joanna L. , Nash Edward F.
Published: December 2021

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disorder that primarily affects the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Dietetic therapy is a prominent aspect of CF management, with patients receiving nutritional surveillance and advice throughout their lifetime. The present study aimed to explore the perception, experience and relationship with food and eating in adults with CF.

Methods

Semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with nine adults with CF. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically following a previously described six‐phase procedure.

Results

Six themes were identified: ‘Sustained influence of eating experience in childhood’, ‘Eating for health: weight gain to prevent infection’, ‘Balancing health and body image’, ‘I'm different,’ ‘Strategies for managing food intake’ and ‘Support from family, friends and the CF Team’. Participants talked about the range of strategies they employ, with a focus on eating well and choosing high calorie foods being an important part of their health management strategy. This is driven by the belief that a good weight ensures better health and perceiving eating as a treatment.

Conclusions

This group felt able to cope well and had developed strategies to manage their dietary needs. Food experience was variable throughout their lifetime, with childhood experience having a sustained effect on adult eating behaviour. Weight gain, body image and dietary health implications are considerable concerns for patients. New CF transmembrane modulator treatments (CFTR modulators) are changing the dietary needs of this population. It is important that these issues are explored during dietetic consultations to identify barriers to dietary change.
SoySNP618K array: A high‐resolution single nucleotide polymorphism platform as a valuable genomic resource for soybean genetics and breeding
Authors: Li Yan‐Fei , Li Ying‐Hui , Su Shan‐Shan , Reif Jochen C. , Qi Zhao‐Ming , Wang Xiao‐Bo , Wang Xing , Tian Yu , Li De‐Lin , Sun Ru‐Jian , Liu Zhang‐Xiong , Xu Ze‐Jun , Fu Guang‐Hui , Ji Ya‐Liang , Chen Qing‐Shan , Liu Ji‐Qiang , Qiu Li‐Juan
Published: December 2021

Innovations in genomics have enabled the development of low‐cost, high‐resolution, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping arrays that accelerate breeding progress and support basic research in crop science. Here, we developed and validated the SoySNP618K array (618,888 SNPs) for the important crop soybean. The SNPs were selected from whole‐genome resequencing data containing 2,214 diverse soybean accessions; 29.34% of the SNPs mapped to genic regions representing 86.85% of the 56,044 annotated high‐confidence genes. Identity‐by‐state analyses of 318 soybeans revealed 17 redundant accessions, highlighting the potential of the SoySNP618K array in supporting gene bank management. The patterns of population stratification and genomic regions enriched through domestication were highly consistent with previous findings based on resequencing data, suggesting that the ascertainment bias in the SoySNP618K array was largely compensated for. Genome‐wide association mapping in combination with reported quantitative trait loci enabled fine‐mapping of genes known to influence flowering time, E2 and GmPRR3b, and of a new candidate gene, GmVIP5. Moreover, genomic prediction of flowering and maturity time in 502 recombinant inbred lines was highly accurate (>0.65). Thus, the SoySNP618K array is a valuable genomic tool that can be used to address many questions in applied breeding, germplasm management, and basic crop research.
Predictors of Active Transportation Among Safe Routes to School Participants in Arizona: Impacts of Distance and Income
Authors: Ross Allison , Kurka Jonathan M.
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Active transportation to school (ATS) is a component of a whole school approach to health promotion among youth.

METHODS

Individual‐ and school‐level predictors of ATS were examined using data from parent surveys (N = 11,100) of students in grades 3‐8 attending 112 schools in Arizona (United States) administering Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs between 2007 and 2018. Multilevel logistic models were estimated to predict the likelihood of students using active (walking or biking) versus inactive travel (riding bus or car) to and from school, and across distance and school‐level income categories.

RESULTS

Student grade, parent education, asking permission to use ATS, perceived health and school support for ATS, distance, and school income were predictive of ATS. The impact of demographic factors persisted across distances of ½ mile or less and at low‐ and medium‐income schools but diminished as distance and income increased. Asking permission and perceived school support persisted across levels of distance and income, while perceiving ATS as healthy was significant only for distances under 1 mile.

CONCLUSIONS

SRTS programs should continue promoting health benefits and school support for ATS. SRTS may be particularly effective at low‐ and medium‐income schools and among families living within ½ mile distances.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of oral and intravenous metoprolol tartrate in clinically healthy horses
Authors: Luethy Daniela , Robinson Mary A. , Stefanovski Darko , Haughan Joanne , Torcivia Catherine , Kowalski Alycia , Ford Matthew , You Youwen , Missanelli Jaclyn , Slack Joann
Published: December 2021

Cardiac drugs with defined pharmacological parameters in horses are limited. The objective of this study was to characterize the pharmacokinetic properties and cardiovascular effects of intravenous and oral metoprolol tartrate (MET) in horses. In a 2‐period randomized cross‐over design, MET was administered IV (0.04 mg/kg) and PO (6 mg/kg) once to six healthy adult horses. Horses were monitored via continuous telemetry and non‐invasive blood pressure (NIBP). Blood samples were serially collected for 72 h post‐administration, and concentrations were determined by LC‐MS/MS. Pharmacokinetics were modeled using a 3‐compartment model and non‐linear least squares regression. Median (range) MET concentration was 110 (40.1–197) ng/ml collected 1 min (0.0167 h) after a bolus IV administration. Maximum concentration (Cmax) after PO administration was 2135 (1590–4170) ng/ml at 0.5 (0.25–0.5) hours. Oral bioavailability was 54% (17–100%). Median apparent volume of distribution was 0.39 (0.17–0.58) l/kg, clearance was 12.63 (11.41–18.94) ml/kg/min, and elimination half‐life was 21.1 (7.46–34.36) minutes. No clinically relevant effects of IV or PO metoprolol were noted on cardiac rhythm or NIBP. Sweating was the most common side effect. The metoprolol doses used in this study achieve plasma concentrations reported to achieve ß‐blockade in humans.
Estimation of railway track longitudinal irregularity using vehicle response with information compression and Bayesian deep learning
Authors: Li Chenzhong , He Qing , Wang Ping
Published: December 2021

In railway transportation, track geometry irregularity is one of the main factors in controlling train safety. At present, railway practitioners typically use the track geometry car (TGC) based on the inertial navigation system to inspect track irregularities. However, TGCs are quite expensive, and their inspection interval is relatively long. Among a variety of emerging methods, using vehicle responses to estimate track irregularities seems very promising as it enables a cheaper and more efficient solution. In this work, an extended auto‐encoder (EAE) is proposed to estimate the track longitudinal irregularity through car body acceleration. The mean absolute percentage errors of the estimated results on the simulated and the real‐world dataset are 2.67% and 3.75%, respectively, which is 50%–55% lower than the traditional neural network. In the frequency domain, the characteristic wavelengths of 5.4 and 32 m can be effectively identified. Besides, the Bayesian deep learning (BDL) method is introduced to improve the EAE and estimate the confidence interval of the track longitudinal amplitude. A metric (coverage width and error) for evaluating and optimizing the performance of the estimated interval is proposed. The interval estimation result in the time domain has a 98% correct coverage rate of the ground truth and 93% in the frequency domain. Within the error range of plus/minus one standard deviation, the EAE model has an estimation accuracy of 94.2% for the standard deviation of track longitudinal irregularity, and the BDL‐EAE can even reach 100%. Compared with the existing methods, our proposed model only requires car body acceleration and has the potential to use ordinary in‐service trains for onboard track inspection.
Wright's Technique with the Addition of Visualized Axial Cortical Windows in Odontoid Fractures
Authors: Wang Ben , Jin Jie , Shao Zhen‐xuan , Yang Guang‐yong , Lin Yan , Xu Hua‐zi , Xie Cheng‐long , Chen Jiao‐xiang , Zhang Xiao‐lei , Hong Zheng‐hua , Wang Xiang‐yang
Published: December 2021

This study sought to investigate and evaluate a modified axial translaminar screw fixation for treating odontoid fractures. We performed a retrospective study at Wenzhou Medical University Affiliated Second Hospital between March 2016 and June 2018. We retrospectively collected and analyzed the medical records of 23 cases with odontoid fractures. All patients were identified as type II odontoid fractures without neurological deficiency and serious diseases following the classification of Anderson. The average age, gender ratio, and body mass index (BMI) were 54.3 ± 11.1 years, 12 men to 11 women, and 22.6 ± 2.4 kg/m2, respectively. Patients in this study accepted screw fixation using our modified axial translaminar screw fixation combined with atlas pedicle or lateral mass screw fixation. Within the technique, a small cortical “window” was dug in the middle of the axial contralateral lamina, such that the screws in the lamina were visualized to prevent incorrectly implanting the posterior spinal canal through the visualized “window.” A total of 46 bone screws were accurately inserted into the axial lamina without using fluoroscopy. The length of all translaminar screws ranged between 26 and 30 mm, while the diameter was 3.5 mm. During the follow‐up survey, the visual analog scale (VAS) and neck disability index (NDI) were measured. We provide a simple modification of Wright's elegant technique with the addition of “visualized windows” at the middle of the axial lamina. In all patients, screws were inserted accurately without bony breach and the screw angle was 56.1 ± 3.0°. Mean operative time was 102 ± 28 min with an average blood loss of 50 ± 25 mL. Postoperative hemoglobin and mean length of hospital stay were 12.0 ± 1.4 g/dL and 10.4 ± 3.4 days, respectively. The average follow‐up time of all cases was 14.7 months and no internal fixation displacement, loosening, or breakage was found. All patients with odontoid fractures reported being satisfied with the treatment during the recheck period and good clinical outcomes were observed. At 1, 6, and 12 months, NDI and VAS showed that the symptoms of neck pain and limitations of functional disability improved significantly during follow‐up. Our results suggest that the modified translaminar screw fixation technique can efficiently treat Anderson type II odontoid fracture, followed by the benefits of less soft tissue dissection, simple operation, no fluoroscopy, and accurate placement of screws.
Surgical Management for Posterior Atlantoaxial Dislocation without Fracture and Atlantoaxial Dynamic Test to Confirm the Integrity of the Transverse Ligament: A Case Report
Authors: Li Cheng , Li Lei , Li Zeqing , Mei Yunli , Huang Shuai
Published: December 2021

Background

Traumatic posterior atlantoaxial dislocation (PAAD) without fracture of the odontoid process is a rare injury. Closed reduction by skull traction under C‐arm fluoroscopic guidance and open reduction have been reported previously for the treatment of PAAD.

Objective

To report a rare case of PAAD without fracture treated by closed manual reduction and posterior fixation. To provide a new method—atlantoaxial dynamic test—for confirming the integrity of the transverse ligament after reduction and evaluate the ideal treatment strategy for traumatic PAAD without fracture of the odontoid process or rupture of the transverse ligament.

Method

A 54‐year‐old woman was riding in the passenger seat when her vehicle was rear‐ended by a car. X‐ray and computed tomography (CT) scans were used to diagnose PAAD without a related fracture. Closed manual reduction under C‐arm fluoroscopy was performed after applying general anesthesia via sober intubation, and the integrity of the transverse ligament was confirmed by the atlantoaxial dynamic test with C‐arm fluoroscopy. Then, pedicle screw internal fixation via the posterior approach was applied to maintain atlantoaxial stability.

Results

The procedure was performed uneventfully, and the patient was able to move out of bed on the first day after surgery with Philadelphia cervical gear. During a 2‐year follow‐up period, imaging data demonstrated no instability of the atlantoaxial complex.

Conclusion

Closed manual reduction under C‐arm fluoroscopy is an easy and effective method for PAAD. The integrity of the transverse ligament can be confirmed by C‐arm fluoroscopy through the atlantoaxial dynamic test after reduction. Pedicle screw internal fixation via the posterior approach can provide sufficient stability.
Long‐Term Follow‐Up of Multilevel Thoracic Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament Following Circumferential Decompression via Posterior Approach: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Xiao , Zhai Shu‐heng , Song Qing‐peng , Wei Feng , Jiang Liang , Sun Chui‐guo , Liu Xiao‐guang , Li Wei‐shi
Published: December 2021

Objective

To examine the postoperative progression of multilevel thoracic posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) at circumferential decompression (CD) levels and evaluate the long‐term results after CD via the posterior approach.

Methods

Clinical data from 16 patients with thoracic myelopathy secondary to OPLL who underwent CD at a single center were evaluated retrospectively from 2007 to 2014 and were followed up for more than 60 months. Patients of all sexes and ages were included in the study. Thin‐slice computed tomography scans obtained at the time of surgery and the most recent follow‐up were analyzed. The ossified area was measured on the axial reconstructed scan of the most obvious protrusion of ossification at the CD level. The neurological outcomes were evaluated using modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores and Hirabayashi recovery rates (HRRs). Continuous variables were presented as the mean ± standard deviation and were analyzed using the Student's t‐test, while categorical variables were tested using Fisher's exact test.

Results

Among all patients, the most predominant type was the mixed type (9/16, 56.3%), while the circumscribed type was only found in two patients (12.5%), and the continuous type was found in five patients (31.2%). Six cases were associated with ossification of the ligamentum flavum, and two cases were combined with cervical OPLL. The OPLL area at the CD level increased in all patients. The mean follow‐up period was 5.5 ± 0.92 years (range 5–8 years). The mean area of ossification increased from 35.63 ± 39.23 mm2 at the time of surgery to 99.94 ± 65.39 mm2 at the last follow‐up visit (P < 0.01). There was no internal fixation disorder on any computed tomography scan after the operation. The average JOA score of all patients improved from 4.2 ± 2.2 points before surgery to 8.4 ± 2.6 points at the final follow‐up (P < 0.01). The overall HRR was 61.8%. None of the patients exhibited any neurological deterioration due to OPLL progression. One patient developed a severe gait disturbance due to worsening lumbar canal stenosis, an unrelated cause, but the other 15 experienced gait disturbance improvements.

Conclusions

According to the long‐term follow‐up results, although OPLL progression did not decrease or stop after removing the OPLL mass, CD is a safe and effective procedure that can provide adequate reserve ventral space to cope with postoperative OPLL progression.
Electrogram fractionation during sinus rhythm occurs in normal voltage atrial tissue in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Frontera Antonio , Limite Luca Rosario , Pagani Stefano , Cireddu Manuela , Vlachos Kostantinos , Martin Claire , Takigawa Masateru , Kitamura Takeshi , Bourier Felix , Cheniti Ghassen , Pambrun Thomas , Sacher Frederic , Derval Nicolas , Hocini Meleze , Quarteroni Alfio , Della Bella Paolo , Haissaguerre Michel , Jaïs Pierre
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Electrogram (EGM) fractionation is often associated with diseased atrial tissue; however, mechanisms for fractionation occurring above an established threshold of 0.5 mV have never been characterized. We sought to investigate during sinus rhythm (SR) the mechanisms underlying bipolar EGM fractionation with high‐density mapping in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Forty‐five patients undergoing AF ablation (73% paroxysmal, 27% persistent) were mapped at high density (18562 ± 2551 points) during SR (Rhythmia). Only bipolar EGMs with voltages above 0.5 mV were considered for analysis. When fractionation (> 40 ms and >4 deflections) was detected, we classified the mechanisms as slow conduction, wave‐front collision, or a pivot point. The relationship between EGM duration and amplitude, and tissue anisotropy and slow conduction, was then studied using a computational model.

Results

Of the 45 left atria analyzed, 133 sites of EGM fragmentation were identified with voltages above 0.5 mV. The most frequent mechanism (64%) was slow conduction (velocity 0.45 m/s ± 0.2) with mean EGM voltage of 1.1 ± 0.5 mV and duration of 54.9 ± 9.4 ms. Wavefront collision was the second most frequent (19%), characterized by higher voltage (1.6 ± 0.9 mV) and shorter duration (51.3 ± 11.3 ms). Pivot points (9%) were associated with the highest degree of fractionation with 70.7 ± 6.6 ms and 1.8 ± 1 mV. In 10 sites (8%) fractionation was unexplained. The EGM duration was significantly different among the 3 mechanisms (p = .0351).

Conclusion

In patients with a history of AF, EGM fractionation can occur at amplitudes > 0.5 mV when in SR in areas often considered not to be diseased tissue. The main mechanism of EGM fractionation is slow conduction, followed by wavefront collision and pivot sites.
Mechanistic drivers of stem respiration: A modelling exercise across species and seasons
Authors: Salomón Roberto L. , De Roo Linus , Oleksyn Jacek , Steppe Kathy
Published: December 2021

Stem respiration (RS) plays a crucial role in plant carbon budgets. However, its poor understanding limits our ability to model woody tissue and whole‐tree respiration. A biophysical model of stem water and carbon fluxes (TReSpire) was calibrated on cedar, maple and oak trees during spring and late summer. For this, stem sap flow, water potential, diameter variation, temperature, CO2 efflux, allometry and biochemistry were monitored. Shoot photosynthesis (PN) and nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) were additionally measured to evaluate source−sink relations. The highest RS and stem growth was found in maple and oak during spring, both being seasonally decoupled from PN and [NSC]. Temperature largely affected maintenance respiration (RM) in the short term, but temperature‐normalized RM was highly variable on a seasonal timescale. Overall, most of the respired CO2 radially diffused to the atmosphere (>87%) while the remainder was transported upward with the transpiration stream. The modelling exercise highlights the sink‐driven behaviour of RS and the significance of overall metabolic activity on nitrogen (N) allocation patterns and N‐normalized respiratory costs to capture RS variability over the long term. These insights should be considered when modelling plant respiration, whose representation is currently biased towards a better understanding of leaf metabolism.
Optimisation of root traits to provide enhanced ecosystem services in agricultural systems: A focus on cover crops
Authors: Griffiths Marcus , Delory Benjamin M. , Jawahir Vanessica , Wong Kong M. , Bagnall G. Cody , Dowd Tyler G. , Nusinow Dmitri A. , Miller Allison J. , Topp Christopher N.
Published: December 2021

Roots are the interface between the plant and the soil and play a central role in multiple ecosystem processes. With intensification of agricultural practices, rhizosphere processes are being disrupted and are causing degradation of the physical, chemical and biotic properties of soil. However, cover crops, a group of plants that provide ecosystem services, can be utilised during fallow periods or used as an intercrop to restore soil health. The effectiveness of ecosystem services provided by cover crops varies widely as very little breeding has occurred in these species. Improvement of ecosystem service performance is rarely considered as a breeding trait due to the complexities and challenges of belowground evaluation. Advancements in root phenotyping and genetic tools are critical in accelerating ecosystem service improvement in cover crops. In this study, we provide an overview of the range of belowground ecosystem services provided by cover crop roots: (1) soil structural remediation, (2) capture of soil resources and (3) maintenance of the rhizosphere and building of organic matter content. Based on the ecosystem services described, we outline current and promising phenotyping technologies and breeding strategies in cover crops that can enhance agricultural sustainability through improvement of root traits.
Bayesian Estimation and Comparison of Conditional Moment Models
Authors: Chib Siddhartha , Shin Minchul , Simoni Anna
Published: December 2021

We consider the Bayesian analysis of models in which the unknown distribution of the outcomes is specified up to a set of conditional moment restrictions. The non-parametric exponentially tilted empirical likelihood function is constructed to satisfy a sequence of unconditional moments based on an increasing (in sample size) vector of approximating functions (such as tensor splines based on the splines of each conditioning variable). For any given sample size, results are robust to the number of expanded moments. We derive Bernstein–von Mises theorems for the behaviour of the posterior distribution under both correct and incorrect specification of the conditional moments, subject to growth rate conditions (slower under misspecification) on the number of approximating functions. A large-sample theory for comparing different conditional moment models is also developed. The central result is that the marginal likelihood criterion selects the model that is less misspecified. We also introduce sparsity-based model search for high-dimensional conditioning variables, and provide efficient Markov chain Monte Carlo computations for high-dimensional parameters. Along with clarifying examples, the framework is illustrated with real data applications to risk-factor determination in finance, and causal inference under conditional ignorability.
The RNA‐binding protein RBP45D of Arabidopsis promotes transgene silencing and flowering time
Authors: Wang Liangsheng , Xu Duorong , Scharf Kristin , Frank Wolfgang , Leister Dario , Kleine Tatjana
Published: December 2021

RNA‐directed DNA methylation (RdDM) helps to defend plants against invasive nucleic acids. In the canonical form of RdDM, 24‐nt small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are produced by DICER‐LIKE 3 (DCL3). The siRNAs are loaded onto ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins leading ultimately to de novo DNA methylation. Here, we introduce the Arabidopsis thaliana prors1 (LUC) transgenic system, in which 24‐nt siRNAs are generated to silence the promoter‐LUC construct. A forward genetic screen performed with this system identified, besides known components of RdDM (NRPD2A, RDR2, AGO4 and AGO6), the RNA‐binding protein RBP45D. RBP45D is involved in CHH (where H is A, C or T) DNA methylation, and maintains siRNA production originating from the LUC transgene. RBP45D is localized to the nucleus, where it is associated with small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) and small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs). RNA‐Seq analysis showed that in CRISPR/Cas‐mediated rbp‐ko lines FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) mRNA levels are upregulated and several loci differentially spliced, among them FLM. In consequence, loss of RBP45D delays flowering, presumably mediated by the release of FLC levels and/or alternative splicing of FLM. Moreover, because levels and processing of transcripts of known RdDM genes are not altered in rbp‐ko lines, RBP45D should have a more direct function in transgene silencing, probably independent of the canonical RdDM pathway. We suggest that RBP45D facilitates siRNA production by stabilizing either the precursor RNA or the slicer protein. Alternatively, RBP45D could be involved in chromatin modifications, participate in retention of Pol IV transcripts and/or in Pol V‐dependent lncRNA retention in chromatin to enable their scaffold function.
Heat Transfer Enhancement of Impingement Cooling by Different Crossflow Diverters
Authors: He Juan , Deng Qinghua , Xiao Kun , Feng Zhenping
Published: December 2021

Impingement cooling can effectively disperse local heat load, but its downstream heat transfer is always reduced due to crossflow effect. In this study, the flow and heat transfer characteristics of impingement cooling with semi-circular (SC), semi-rectangular (SR), semi-diamond (SD), and semi-four-pointed star (SFS) crossflow diverters are compared over the ReD ranging from 3,500 to 14,000 by solving three dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations with SST k–ω turbulence model. It is found that the arrangement of crossflow diverters changes the distribution of local jet Reynolds number (ReD,j/ReD) and reduces the mass velocity ratio of downstream crossflow to jet (Gcf/Gj), so the impingement heat transfer is enhanced significantly. However, friction loss also increases. Overall evaluation reveals that all crossflow diverters can improve the comprehensive heat transfer performance parameter (Φ), and the maximum increases of Φ are 11.0%, 14.3%, 12.2%, and 14.7% for SC, SR, SD, and SFS cases, respectively. It is noted that the Nusselt number of heated SFS-shaped diverter surface is also the highest. Besides, the influences of streamwise location (L) and thickness (t) of SFS-shaped diverter are also investigated. Results show that when the L increases from 2D to 3D, the heat transfer and friction loss change slightly; when the L increases from 3D to 4D, the heat transfer decreases sharply, and friction loss increases seriously. As for the t, it has almost no effect on the flow field and heat transfer.
Haptic Rendering of Surface-to-Surface Sculpted Model Interaction
Authors: Nelson Donald D. , Johnson David E. , Cohen Elaine
Published: December 2021

Previous work in haptics surface tracing for virtual prototyping and surface design applications has used a point model for virtual finger-surface interaction. We extend this tracing method for surface-to-surface interactions. A straightforward extension of the point-surface formulation to surface-surface can yield extraneous, undesirable solutions, although we rework the formulation to yield more satisfactory solutions. Additionally, we derive an alternative novel velocity formulation for use in a surface-surface tracing paradigm that exhibits additional stability beyond the Newton methods. Both methods require evaluating the surface point and first and second surface partial derivatives for both surfaces, an efficient kilohertz rate computation. These methods are integrated into a three step tracking process that uses a global minimum distance method, the local Newton formulation, and the new velocity formulation.
An Architecture for Haptic Control of Media
Authors: MacLean Karon E. , Snibbe Scott S. , Shaw Robert S.
Published: December 2021

Most haptic interfaces are designed with a desire to produce simultaneous perception across multiple senses, with haptic behaviors that complement the task at hand. However, software architectures for haptic interfaces often distribute a virtual model and tasks among multiple processes and CPUs. This functional segregation can reduce the quality of haptic experience, by hiding important details of the dynamic model and reducing the communication bandwidth between the haptic controller and the application.

We present a means of closely coordinating a haptic interface with a virtual model, application content and other sensory displays. Our architecture features the ability to customize haptic behavior at a low level, in the dynamic relations among control parameters. Furthermore, we have located significant application control within the haptic process in order to facilitate effective bidirectional communication.

We describe some applications for haptically manipulating dynamic media; and propose extensions to our architecture for increased generality, decreased code size and high-level programmability for efficient application development.