bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benchmark of density functional theory methods for the study of organic polysulfides
Authors: Sharma Jyoti , Champagne Pier Alexandre
Published: September 2022

Elemental sulfur is often used in organic synthesis as its low cost and high abundance make it a highly desirable source of sulfur atoms. However, sulfur's unpredictable catenation behavior poses challenges to its widespread usage due to difficulties in designing new reactions that can account for its multifaceted reactivity. In order to accurately model sulfur's mechanisms using computational approaches, it is necessary to identify density functional theory (DFT) methods that are accurate on these systems. This study benchmarks 12 well‐known DFT functionals that include local, non‐local, and hybrid methods against DLPNO‐CCSD(T)/aug‐cc‐pV(Q+d)Z//MP2/aug‐cc‐pV(T+d)Z/SMD(MeCN) for the accurate treatment of organic polysulfides, taking cyanide as a nucleophile. Our benchmarking results indicate that the M06‐2X and B3LYP‐D3(BJ) density functionals are the most accurate for calculating reaction energies, while local functionals performed the worst. For activation energies, MN15, MN15‐L, M06‐2X, and ωB97X‐D are the most accurate. Our analysis of structural parameters shows that all functionals perform well for ground state optimizations except B97D3, while MN15‐L and M06‐2X performed best for transition structure optimizations. Overall, the four hybrid functionals MN15, M06‐2X, ωB97X‐D, and B3LYP‐D3(BJ) appear adequate for studying the reaction mechanisms of polysulfides.
Effect of ZrS2 load single/dual‐atom catalysts on the hydrogen evolution reaction: A first‐principles study
Authors: Dong Shizhi , Li Yanshuai , Hu Hongyu , Li Ruichuan , Yan Bing , Zhang Xing , Wang Zeliang , Zhang Jinyu , Guo Lin
Published: September 2022

The hydrogen evolution effect of ZrS2 carrier loaded with transition metal single‐atom (SA) was explored by first‐principles method. ZrS2 was constructed with transition metal single‐atom and dual‐atom. The structure–activity relationship of supported single‐atom catalysts was described by electronic properties and hydrogen evolution kinetics. The results show that the ZrS2 carrier‐loaded atomic‐level catalysts are more likely to occur in acidic environments, where the Mo SA load has a higher hydrogen precipitation capacity than the Pt SA. In the case of dual‐atom adsorption, most of the hydrogen reduction processes are higher than that of single atom loading, which indicates that the outer orbital hybridization is more likely to lead to the interfacial charge recombination of the catalyst. Thereinto, Ni/Pt @ZrS2 has the lowest Gibbs free energy (0.08 eV), and the synergistic effect of transition metals induces the deviation of the center of the d‐band from the Fermi level and improves the dissociation ability of H ions. The design provides a new catalytic model for the HER and provides some ideas for understanding the two‐site catalysis.
Cervical length screening for predicting preterm birth: A comparative review of guidelines
Authors: Impis Oglou Mechmet , Tsakiridis Ioannis , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Kalogiannidis Ioannis , Athanasiadis Apostolos , Dagklis Themistoklis
Published: September 2022

A cervical length (CL) assessment may predict preterm birth (PTB). This study aimed to analyze and compare the recommendations of guidelines on the role of CL in the prediction of PTB. There is no consensus regarding universal screening of asymptomatic women without a history of prior spontaneous PTB (sPTB), using CL. On the other hand, CL assessment is recommended in cases with a history of sPTB due to the high recurrence rate. Finally, there is discrepancy regarding CL assessment in asymptomatic women with multiple pregnancy. Although far from perfect, CL measurement remains the best available method to predict PTB.
Trends in postgraduate dental training in the United States
Authors: Bates Timothy , Jura Matthew , Werts Miranda , Kottek Aubri , Munson Bradley , Vujicic Marko , Mertz Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2022

Objective

This study examines the individual, educational, and policy factors that predict dentists pursuing postgraduate dental (PGD) training.

Methods

Individual dentist records from the 2017 American Dental Association Masterfile were linked with pre‐doctoral training attributes and state‐level dental policy factors. Generalized logistic models, adjusted for individual, educational, and policy factors, were used to predict: (1) attending any PGD program, and (2) primary (i.e., advanced general practice, pediatrics, or dental public health, per the Health Resources and Services Administration [HRSA]) versus specialty care.

Results

The majority of new PGD residency slots (77%) were in primary care. Women held 56% of primary care slots; men held 62% of specialty slots. Individual characteristics that predicted PGD primary care training included being Black, Hispanic, Asian, or other race; being male or older age reduced the odds. Pre‐doctoral school characteristics that predicted PGD primary care training included having a pre‐doctoral HRSA grant, affiliation with an academic medical center, and being a historically Black college/university; being a private school or in a small metro area lowered the odds. At the policy level, the strongest predictors of attending PGD primary care training are a residency requirement in the state you currently practice in and federal graduate medical education (GME) investment per residency slot.

Conclusion

Pursuing PGD training is variable based on the race/ethnicity/gender of the dentist. Federal investments in pre‐doctoral dental education and GME can drive equity, as they significantly increase the odds that dentists will go on to PGD training, as do state licensure requirements.
Evaluation of dose accumulation methods and workflows utilising cone beam computed tomography images
Authors: Brink Amelia , Stewart Kate , Hargrave Catriona
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Various adaptive radiation therapy (ART) methods have emerged, with little consensus amongst the literature as to which is most appropriate. This study aimed to compare dose mapping (DM) versus Monte Carlo recalculation (MCR), using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images when utilised in automated ART dose accumulation workflows in the MIM Maestro software package.

Methods

The treatment plans for 38 cancer patients (19 prostate and 19 head and neck cases) were used to perform DM or MCR retrospectively upon CBCTs acquired during treatment, which were then deformably registered to the planning CT (DR‐pCT) to facilitate dose accumulation. Dose–volume and region‐of‐interest data were extracted for the planning target volumes and organs at risk. Intraclass correlation (ICC) values and Bland–Altman plots were utilised to compare DM versus MCR doses on the CBCT images as well as CBCT versus DR‐pCT doses.

Results

When comparing DM and MCR on CBCTs, the differences across dose level mean dose differences were mostly within a ±5% level of agreement based on the Bland–Altman plots, with over 67% of ICC values over 0.9 and indicative of good correlation. When these distributions were deformed back to the planning CT, the agreement was reduced considerably, with larger differences (exceeding ±5%) resulting from workflow‐related issues.

Conclusion

The results emphasise the need to consider and make adaptations to minimise the effect of workflows on algorithm performance. Manual user intervention, refined departmental protocols and further developments to the MIM Maestro software will enhance the use of this tool.
Whole‐transcriptome sequencing data reveals a disparate cognitive and immune signature in COVID‐19 patients with and without dementia
Authors: Yang Jue , Song Hui , Hao Xiaojiang
Published: September 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), has caused more than 6.3 million deaths worldwide. Recent evidence has indicated that elderly people with dementia are particularly vulnerable to COVID‐19 and severe disease outcomes. However, its molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we retrieved frontal cortex samples of COVID‐19 patients from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and performed a systematic transcriptomic analysis to compare COVID‐19 patients and controls with or without dementia. In nondemented patients, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection obviously activated T helper type 2 (Th2) cell‐mediated humoral immunity and reduced the pathogenesis of dementia‐related Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. In demented patients, conversely, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection significantly increased T helper type 1 (Th1) cell‐mediated cellular immunity and exacerbated the progression of dementia‐related diseases. We further analyzed the molecular characteristics of COVID‐19 patients with and without dementia. Compared with nondemented COVID‐19 patients, demented COVID‐19 patients showed decreased enrichment scores of Calcium signaling pathway, Neuroactive ligand‐receptor interaction, ABC transporters, and Peroxisome, and increased enrichment scores of Olfactory transduction and Regulation of autophagy. The ratio of Th1/Th2 cells was significantly increased from 1.17 in nondemented COVID‐19 patients to 33.32 in demented COVID‐19 patients. Taken together, our findings provide transcriptomic evidence that COVID‐19 has distinct influences on cognitive function and immune response in patients with and without dementia.
Differentiation of Transylvanian fruit distillates using supervised statistical tools based on isotopic and elemental fingerprint
Authors: Dehelean Adriana , Cristea Gabriela , Feher Ioana , Hategan Ariana Raluca , Magdas Dana Alina
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

The spirit drinks industry is one of the largest in the world. Fruit distillates require adequate analysis methods combined with statistical tools to build differentiation models, according to distinct criteria (geographical and botanical origin, producer's fingerprint, respectively). Over time a database of alcoholic beverage fingerprints can be generated, being very important for product safety and authenticity control.

RESULTS

To control the distillates’ geographical origin, linear discriminant analysis (LDA) revealed that the cross‐validation classification was correct for 88.2% of samples, but partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) was slightly better suited for this purpose, with a correct classification rate of 91.2%. LDA effectiveness was proven for the trademark fingerprint differentiation, which was achieved at 93.5%, compared to 89.1% for PLS‐DA. The principal predictors obtained by LDA were the same both for geographical origin and producer differentiation: B, δ13C, Na, Cu, Ca and Be; highlighting the fact that in the production process of distillates each producer used fruits coming from the respective specific region. Through PLS‐DA, some of the discrimination markers were the same for geographical origin and producer's identification, but others were completely specific: the rare earth elements Eu and Er only for geographical origin differentiation, and Cu solely as predictor for producer's identification. Regarding distillates’ fruit variety, the correct discrimination rates of plum spirits from the rest were 84.2% for PLS‐DA and 63% for LDA.

CONCLUSION

LDA and PLS‐DA were suitable for differentiation models development of fruits spirits according to geographical region, producer and fruit variety based on isotopic and elemental fingerprint. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Thermal performance of planktonic ciliates differs between marine and freshwaters: A case study providing guidance for climate change studies
Authors: Lukić Dunja , Limberger Romana , Agatha Sabine , Montagnes David J. S. , Weisse Thomas
Published: September 2022

Predicting the performance of aquatic organisms in a future warmer climate depends critically on understanding how current temperature regimes affect the organisms' growth rates. Using a meta‐analysis for the published experimental data, we calculated the activation energy (Ea) to parameterize the thermal sensitivity of marine and freshwater ciliates, major players in marine and freshwater food webs. We hypothesized that their growth rates increase with temperature but that ciliates dwelling in the immense, thermally stable ocean are closely adapted to their ambient temperature and have lower Ea than ciliates living in smaller, thermally more variable freshwater environments. The Ea was in the range known from other taxa but significantly lower for marine ciliates (0.390 ± 0.105 eV) than for freshwater ciliates (0.633 ± 0.060 eV), supporting our hypothesis. Accordingly, models aiming to predict the ciliate response to increasing water temperature should apply the environment‐specific activation energies provided in this study.
Influence of Hurricane Activity on Acoustic Array Efficiency: A Case Study of Red Snapper within an Artificial Reef Complex
Authors: Banks Kesley Gibson , Streich Matthew K. , Curtis Judson M. , Stunz Gregory W.
Published: September 2022

Meteorological disturbances, such as hurricanes, can cause wide distributional changes to fish populations, but studies documenting fish movement in response to these disturbances are rare and serendipitous. We opportunistically examined how a hurricane influenced behavior of Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus at an artificial reef complex in the western Gulf of Mexico. Red Snapper had a variety of responses, with some fish emigrating and some remaining on site during Hurricane Harvey—a category 4 storm. Hurricane induced destruction or alteration of habitat may alter space use behavior of fish. However, caution should be used when interpreting behavior without the inclusion of array performance, which may change due to environmental conditions. Importantly, when acoustic array efficiency was not accounted for in space use analyses, mean kernel utilization distribution (m3) was marginally different among the periods before, during, and after Hurricane Harvey. However, when mean daily array efficiency was included as a covariate, space use among the three periods was not significantly different. Hurricanes can affect the movement and residency of marine species and can be an important driver in the displacement of populations and degradation of habitats, but array efficiency should be incorporated to prevent misinterpreting the behaviors of tagged fish.
An evidence‐based general anaesthesia and prone position nursing checklist: Development and testing
Authors: Cai Jianshu , Huang Xiaoling , He Lifang
Published: September 2022

Aim

Prone positioning during general anaesthesia is one of the most difficult practices for the perioperative nurse. Patients in this position are vulnerable to many preventable complications. However, no studies have developed an evidence‐based tool to improve nursing practice during general anaesthesia and prone positioning. This study aimed to develop and test a general anaesthesia and prone position nursing checklist for use by the circulating nurse.

Design

A prospective pre‐post study was performed between October 2020 and March 2021.

Methods

The WHO checklist development model and evidence‐based methods guided the checklist development process. We prospectively observed circulating nurses that attended to prone general anaesthesia during posterior lumbar spine surgery for 3 months before and after the introduction of the general anaesthesia and prone position nursing risk checklist. The main outcomes were successful delivery of essential prone positional nursing practices during each surgery and the nurse's opinion of the checklist's efficacy and utility.

Results

A general anaesthesia and prone position nursing checklist comprised of 4 pause points and 22 necessary nursing practices was developed. Seventy‐two nurses participated in this study. Use of the checklist significantly increased the average performance of essential practices during each surgery from 72.72%–95.45%. Three measures had a compliance rate of 100%. The delivery rate of 14 measures was significantly improved, 91.7% of nurses considered the checklist easy to use, and 94.4% nurses would want the checklist to be used if they underwent a prone position and general anaesthesia operation.
The effect of surface treatments on the interlaminar shear failure of GLARE laminates subjected to pre‐cyclic thermal loads
Authors: Süsler Sedat , Bora Mustafa Özgür , Uçan Cem , Türkmen Halit S.
Published: September 2022

In this study, both the individual and combined effect of thermal cycling and surface treatment on the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of glass laminate aluminum‐reinforced epoxy (GLARE) 3/2 sheet material are investigated experimentally. Three kinds of surface treatments including sandpapering, degreasing and both degreasing and sandpapering are applied to AA6061‐T6 sheets before manufacturing of hot‐pressed GLARE 3/2 sheet material. Two different cyclic thermal conditions, which are referred to the flight characteristics of a typical transport category aircraft, are then applied to short‐beam GLARE specimens by changing temperature limits and keeping the number of cycles the same. Three‐point bending tests are lastly performed to examine the effects of surface treatments on the ILSS of GLARE laminates under pre‐cyclic thermal conditions by comparing with the specimens under acyclic condition at room temperature. The results show that the ILSS of surface‐treated laminates have an increase by between 29% and 73% against untreated ones according to the cyclic thermal profile. If sandpapering and degreasing apply together as a combined mechanical–chemical surface treatment process, then ILSS is totally preserved or reduced by only 4% under certain thermal pre‐cyclic conditions.
lncRNA X‐inactive‐specific transcript is a potential biomarker related to changes in CD4+ T cell levels in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Cheng Qi , Chen Xin , Xu Jieying , Chen Mo , Zhang Peiyu , Wu Huaxiang , Du Yan
Published: September 2022

Background

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a particularly heterogeneous autoimmune disease. This study was intended to clarify the correlations between X‐inactive‐specific transcript (XIST) expression and SLE clinical features and the contribution of XIST to SLE pathogenesis at the transcriptome level.

Methods

XIST expression in 79 SLE patients, 14 rheumatoid arthritis patients, and 23 healthy controls was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The Benjamini and Hochberg adjusted method and multivariate linear regression were applied to correct p‐values and adjust confounding factors, respectively. Bioinformatic methods were used to explore the function and regulatory mechanism of XIST.

Results

XIST was significantly elevated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and CD4+ T cells from SLE patients compared with the levels in healthy controls and had potential diagnostic value for SLE. Notably, XIST expression was positively correlated with the SLE disease activity index and significantly reduced after effective treatment. Moreover, SLE patients with high XIST expression tended to have elevated levels of CD4+ T cells, but reduced levels of NK cells. Bioinformatic analyses suggested that XIST may regulate OLFM4 and CEACAM8 expression by acting as a spongy body for miR‐20a, miR‐92a, miR‐106a, and miR‐449a. Furthermore, CEACAM8 was significantly upregulated in CD4+ T cells from SLE patients and significantly positively correlated with XIST expression.

Conclusions

lncRNA XIST, a potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for SLE, is involved in the change of immune cell balance in the peripheral blood of SLE patients. Mechanistically, XIST may regulate the miR‐17‐92–CEACAM8 axis to achieve this in CD4+ T cells.
Polymorphs with Remarkably Distinct Physical and/or Chemical Properties
Authors: Saha Binoy K. , Nath Naba K. , Thakuria Ranjit
Published: September 2022

Polymorphism in crystals is known since 1822 and the credit goes to Mitscherlich who realized the existence of different crystal structures of the same compound while working with some arsenate and phosphate salts. Later on, this phenomenon was observed also in organic crystals. With the advent of different technologies, especially the easy availability of single crystal XRD instruments, polymorphism in crystals has become a common phenomenon. Almost 37 % of compounds (single component) are polymorphic to date. As the energies of the different polymorphic forms are very close to each other, small changes in crystallization conditions might lead to different polymorphic structures. As a result, sometimes it is difficult to control polymorphism. For this reason, it is considered to be a nuisance to crystal engineering. It has been realized that the property of a material depends not only on the molecular structure but also on its crystal structure. Therefore, it is not only of interest to academia but also has widespread applications in the materials science as well as pharmaceutical industries. In this review, we have discussed polymorphism which causes significant changes in materials properties in different fields of solid‐state science, such as electrical, magnetic, SHG, thermal expansion, mechanical, luminescence, color, and pharmaceutical. Therefore, this review will interest researchers from supramolecular chemistry, materials science as well as medicinal chemistry.
Organocatalytic Access to Tetrasubstituted Chiral Carbons Integrating Functional Groups
Authors: Asano Keisuke , Matsubara Seijiro
Published: September 2022

Three‐dimensional organic structures containing sp3 carbons bearing four non‐hydrogen substituents can provide drug‐like molecules. Although such complex structures are challenging targets in synthetic organic chemistry, efficient synthetic approaches will open a new chemical space for pharmaceutical candidates. This review provides an account of our recent achievements in developing organocatalytic approaches to attractive molecular platforms based on optically active sp3 carbons integrating four different functional groups. These methodologies include asymmetric cycloetherification and cyanation of multifunctional ketones, both of which take advantage of the mild characteristics of organocatalytic activation. Enzyme‐like but non‐enzymatic organocatalytic systems can be used to precisely manufacture molecules containing complex chiral structures without substrate specificity problems. In addition, these catalytic systems control not only stereoselectivity but also site‐selectivity and do not induce side reactions even from substrates with rich functionality.
Florida sandhill crane use and nesting in managed dry prairie
Authors: Dellinger Timothy A. , Cox W. Andrew , Watford Miranda L.
Published: September 2022

Habitat loss is the primary threat to Florida sandhill cranes (Antigone canadensis pratensis) and few land management efforts are specific to the subspecies on Florida's public lands. We examined nest density and vegetation structure before and after roller‐chopping (i.e., mechanical control of saw palmetto [Serenoa repens] and other dense shrubs) and prescribed fire. From 2014 to 2016, Florida sandhill crane nesting was monitored before and following treatments in native dry prairie at Three Lakes Wildlife Management Area (TLWMA) and in nonnative improved pasture at an adjacent privately owned ranch, Kenansville, Florida, USA. Treatments reduced vegetation height and density around marshes that had dense saw palmetto unlike control marshes where saw palmetto height increased and there was little change in density. Treatments also decreased shrub densities by 13.4% and increased grass densities by 15% in the dry prairie, making them structurally more similar to pastures. However, nest density did not increase in the TLWMA dry prairie after roller‐chopping and burning during the project time frame. Colonization of new areas by cranes, including those recently roller‐chopped and burned, may require time and longer‐term monitoring.
Radial stagnation flow of a micropolar fluid over a twisting cylinder
Authors: Bashir Sammar , Sajid Muhammad , Sadiq Muhammad Noveel , Fahim Muhammad , Ali Nasir
Published: September 2022

An investigation is accomplished to analyze the problem of radial stagnation flow of micropolar fluid radially impinging over a twisting cylinder. The impact of the twisting rate σ, Reynolds number R on the flow under the concentration of rotation of microelements on the flow is predicted in this research. By utilizing similarity variables, the leading flow equations of micropolar fluid are transformed into ordinary ones. A numerical scheme called the Keller–Box technique is applied to acquire the numerical results. The consequences of the micro rotational components on the twisting parameter are analyzed. Important characteristics of this flow are studied for different values of and σ. The wall shear stresses are also obtained. The interesting feature of axial and azimuthal wall shear stress parameters under the concentration of micro rotation of fluid elements are obtained and discussed.
On the growth of multi-recurrences
Authors: Fuchs Clemens , Heintze Sebastian
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we provide a complete proof for a bound on the growth of multi-recurrences which are defined over a number field. The proven bound was already stated by van der Poorten and Schlickewei 40 years ago.
Kommt die Defi-Drohne?
Authors: Thies Karl-Christian , Jansen Gerrit , Wähnert Dirk
Published: September 2022

Hintergrund

Der Mangel an automatischen externen Defibrillatoren (AED) und die fehlende Kenntnis von Ersthelfern im Umgang mit diesen Geräten haben in Deutschland zu einer ungenügenden Verbreitung der Public-Access-Defibrillation geführt.

Fragestellung

Dieser Artikel untersucht, inwieweit die automatisierte Zuführung von AED bei außerklinischem Herz-Kreislauf-Stillstand mithilfe von Drohnen hier Abhilfe schaffen kann.

Material und Methodik

Narrative Literaturübersicht, Auswertung von Statistiken, Analyse relevanter Medienmeldungen und Diskussion von Grundlagenarbeiten.

Ergebnisse

Die vorliegenden Untersuchungen sind überwiegend im experimentellen Bereich angesiedelt und belegen die Machbarkeit und die Sicherheit des Drohneneinsatzes sowie eine Verkürzung der Zeit bis zur Erstdefibrillation. Erste klinische Studien bestätigen dies.

Schlussfolgerung

Defi-Drohnen könnten wahrscheinlich zur Verbesserung der Frühdefibrillationrate in Deutschland beitragen. Dies gilt sowohl für den ländlichen als auch den urbanen Raum. Die technologischen Voraussetzungen sind gegeben, die flugrechtlichen Bedingungen müssten allerdings noch angepasst werden. Um das volle Potenzial der neuen Technologie auszuloten, sind weitere Feldversuche erforderlich.
Modelling Okun’s law: Does non-Gaussianity matter?
Authors: Kiss Tamás , Nguyen Hoang , Österholm Pär
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we analyse Okun’s law—a relation between the change in the unemployment rate and GDP growth—using data from Australia, the euro area, the UK and the USA. More specifically, we assess the relevance of non-Gaussianity when modelling the relation. This is done in a Bayesian VAR framework with stochastic volatility where we allow the different models’ error distributions to have heavier-than-Gaussian tails and skewness. Our results indicate that accounting for heavy tails yields improvements over a Gaussian specification in some cases, whereas skewness appears less fruitful. In terms of dynamic effects, a shock to GDP growth has robustly negative effects on the change in the unemployment rate in all four economies.
Higher FORTA (Fit fOR The Aged) scores are associated with poor functional outcomes, dementia, and mortality in older people
Authors: Pazan Farhad , Breunig Hanna , Weiss Christel , Röhr Susanne , Luppa Melanie , Pentzek Michael , Bickel Horst , Weeg Dagmar , Weyerer Siegfried , Wiese Birgitt , König Hans-Helmut , Brettschneider Christian , Heser Kathrin , Maier Wolfgang , Scherer Martin , Riedel-Heller Steffi , Wagner Michael , Wehling Martin
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Higher Fit fOR The Aged (FORTA) scores have been shown to be negatively associated with adverse clinical outcomes in older hospitalized patients. This has not been evaluated in other health care settings. The aim of this study was to examine the association of the FORTA score with relevant outcomes in the prospective AgeCoDe–AgeQualiDe cohort of community-dwelling older people. In particular, the longitudinal relation between the FORTA score and mortality and the incidence of dementia was evaluated.

Methods

Univariate and multivariate correlations between the FORTA score and activities of daily living (ADL) or instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) as well as comparisons between high vs. low FORTA scores were conducted.

Results

The FORTA score was significantly correlated with ADL/IADL at baseline and at all follow-up visits (p < 0.0001). ADL/IADL results of participants with a low FORTA score were significantly better than in those with high FORTA scores (p < 0.0001). The FORTA score was also significantly (p < 0.0001) correlated with ADL/IADL in the multivariate analysis. Moreover, the mean FORTA scores of participants with dementia were significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than in those without dementia at follow-up visits 6 through 9. The mean FORTA scores of participants who died were significantly higher than those of survivors at follow-up visits 7 (p < 0.05), 8 (p < 0.001), and 9 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this study, an association between higher FORTA scores and ADL as well as IADL was demonstrated in community-dwelling older adults. Besides, higher FORTA scores appear to be linked to a higher incidence of dementia and even mortality.
A sulfur and halogen budget for the large magmatic system beneath Taupō volcano
Authors: Sharpe Max S. , Barker Simon J. , Rooyakkers Shane M. , Wilson Colin J. N. , Chambefort Isabelle , Rowe Michael C. , Schipper C. Ian , Charlier Bruce L. A.
Published: September 2022

The transport and degassing pathways of volatiles through large silicic magmatic systems are central to understanding geothermal fluid compositions, ore deposit genesis, and volcanic eruption dynamics and impacts. Here, we document sulfur (S), chlorine (Cl), and fluorine (F) concentrations in a range of host materials in eruptive deposits from Taupō volcano (New Zealand). Materials analysed are groundmass glass, silicic melt inclusions, and microphenocrystic apatite that equilibrated in shallow melt-dominant magma bodies; silicic melt and apatite inclusions within crystal cores inferred to be sourced from deeper crystal mush; and olivine-hosted basaltic melt inclusions from mafic enclaves that represent the most primitive feedstock magmas. Sulfur and halogen concentrations each follow distinct concentration pathways during magma differentiation in response to changing pressures, temperatures, oxygen fugacities, crystallising mineral phases, the effects of volatile saturation, and the presence of an aqueous fluid phase. Sulfur contents in the basaltic melt inclusions (~ 2000 ppm) are typical for arc-type magmas, but drop to near detection limits by dacitic compositions, reflecting pyrrhotite crystallisation at ~ 60 wt. % SiO2 during the onset of magnetite crystallisation. In contrast, Cl increases from ~ 500 ppm in basalts to ~ 2500 ppm in dacitic compositions, due to incompatibility in the crystallising phases. Fluorine contents are similar between mafic and silicic compositions (< 1200 ppm) and are primarily controlled by the onset of apatite and/or amphibole crystallisation and then destabilisation. Sulfur and Cl partition strongly into an aqueous fluid and/or vapour phase in the shallow silicic system. Sulfur contents in the rhyolite melts are low, yet the Oruanui supereruption is associated with a major sulfate peak in ice core records in Antarctica and Greenland, implying that excess S was derived from a pre-eruptive gas phase, mafic magma recharge, and/or disintegration of a hydrothermal system. We estimate that the 25.5 ka Oruanui eruption ejected > 130 Tg of S (390 Tg sulfate) and up to ~ 1800 Tg of Cl, with potentially global impacts on climate and stratospheric ozone.
An augmented Lagrangian method for optimization problems with structured geometric constraints
Authors: Jia Xiaoxi , Kanzow Christian , Mehlitz Patrick , Wachsmuth Gerd
Published: September 2022

This paper is devoted to the theoretical and numerical investigation of an augmented Lagrangian method for the solution of optimization problems with geometric constraints. Specifically, we study situations where parts of the constraints are nonconvex and possibly complicated, but allow for a fast computation of projections onto this nonconvex set. Typical problem classes which satisfy this requirement are optimization problems with disjunctive constraints (like complementarity or cardinality constraints) as well as optimization problems over sets of matrices which have to satisfy additional rank constraints. The key idea behind our method is to keep these complicated constraints explicitly in the constraints and to penalize only the remaining constraints by an augmented Lagrangian function. The resulting subproblems are then solved with the aid of a problem-tailored nonmonotone projected gradient method. The corresponding convergence theory allows for an inexact solution of these subproblems. Nevertheless, the overall algorithm computes so-called Mordukhovich-stationary points of the original problem under a mild asymptotic regularity condition, which is generally weaker than most of the respective available problem-tailored constraint qualifications. Extensive numerical experiments addressing complementarity- and cardinality-constrained optimization problems as well as a semidefinite reformulation of MAXCUT problems visualize the power of our approach.
Robotic 3D printed lunar bionic architecture based on lunar regolith selective laser sintering technology
Authors: Yuan Philip F. , Zhou Xinjie , Wu Hao , Zhang Liming , Guo Lijie , Shi Yun , Lin Zhe , Bai Jinyu , Yu Youhai , Yang Shanglu
Published: September 2022

The lunar base is not only an experimental station for extraterrestrial space exploration but also a dwelling for humans performing this exploration. Building a lunar base presents numerous obstacles and requires environmental perception, feedback design, and construction methods. An integrated fabrication process that incorporates design, 3D printing workflow, and construction details to build a bionic, reconfigurable and high-performance lunar base prototype is presented in this paper. The research comprises the study of the lunar regolith 3D printing mechanism, the real-time control of powder laying and compaction procedure, and the development of a 3D printing tool end system. In this paper, many scientific questions regarding in situ fabrication on the lunar surface are raised and addressed with the proposal of a progressive optimization design method, the molding principle, and gradation strategy of lunar soil-polyaryletherketone (PAEK) hybrid powder, and the principle of dual-light field 3D laser printing. The feasibility of the technical strategy proposed in this paper is verified by the presented empirical samples.
Effect of preoperative, high-dose glucocorticoid on early cognitive function after abdominal wall reconstruction – A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Brφndum Tina L. , Leerhφy Bonna , Jensen Kristian K.
Published: September 2022

Abstract

Introduction

Preoperative high-dose glucocorticoid (GC) improves postoperative recovery and reduces length of stay but increases the risk of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Whether preoperative high-dose GC increases the risk of POCD in abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) is unknown.

Material and methods

This was a double-blind randomized controlled trial examining the effect of 125 mg methylprednisolone (MP) iv versus placebo (saline) iv given as a single dose at anesthesia induction. Cognitive function was tested pre- and postoperatively by The Trail Making Test (TMT) A and TMT-B. Outcome of TMT is time (seconds) to complete the test; the longer the time, the worse the impairment. Primary endpoint was individual change preoperative to postoperative day (POD) 1 on TMT-B. Secondary endpoints were individual change preoperative to: POD1 on TMT-A, POD2 on TMT-A and TMT-B, and POD30 on TMT-A and TMT-B, respectively.

Results

A total of 33 patients (MP: n = 17; placebo: n = 16) were analyzed for primary endpoint. There was no significant difference between the groups in primary endpoint (MP group median 1s (IQR -7 − 23) vs. placebo group median 12s (IQR -5 − 34), p = 0.521). The MP group was significantly faster than the placebo group preoperative to POD30 on TMT-A (MP group median −10s (IQR -16 − 4) vs. placebo group median -4s (IQR -8 – 1), p = 0.046). There were no significant differences in remaining secondary endpoints.

Conclusion

Preoperative high-dose GC is not associated with increased risk of early POCD in elective AWR for a large incisional hernia.

Highlights
Frey Syndrome Treatment with Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Dulguerov Pavel , Quinodoz Didier , Cosendai Grégoire , Piletta Pierre , Lehmann Willy
Published: September 2022

The goal of this work is to present our results of the intradermic infiltration with botulinum toxin in patients with Frey syndrome. Sixteen hemifaces in 15 patients were studied. Gustatory stimulation was evoked by sucking on a slice of lemon while measurements were done on both hemifaces, with the normal side being used as a control. Skin temperature and color (erythema) were measured with a digital surface thermometer and a skin chromameter, respectively. Sweat quantity and surface were measured by using the previously described blotting paper and iodine‐sublimated paper histogram methods, respectively. Testing was repeated 2 weeks after skin infiltration with botulinum toxin (dilution of 50 U/mL). The interinjection distances were 1 cm, and 0.1 mL (5 U) was infiltrated at each injection site. Frey syndrome complaints disappeared in all patients. Small residual amounts of sweat were measurable. The difference in sweat quantity before and after botulinum toxin infiltration was significant in every patient (P < 0.001). Skin temperature and color measurement gave inconclusive results. In conclusion, Frey syndrome treatment with botulinum toxin is an efficient and well‐tolerated technique. Further work should address the optimal injection parameters.
Prognostic Value of p53, Proliferating cell Nuclear Antigen, and Ki‐67 Expression in Undifferentiated Nasopharyngeal Carcinomas
Authors: Genç Erkhan , Hoşal A. Şefik , Gedikoĝlu Gökhan , özyar Enis , Sözeri Bülent
Published: September 2022

In this study the prognostic importance of p53, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and Ki‐67 expression was analyzed along with the clinical parameters in 35 consecutive patients with undifferentiated nasopharyngeal carcinomas. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect p53, PCNA, and Ki‐67 staining. Among the clinical findings, stage IV disease (P = 0.01), cranial nerve paralysis (P = 0.02), and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.06) were associated with shorter survival. The p53 positivity correlated with the presence of lymph nodes, but it was not a significant factor to predict the outcome. PCNA expression was not found to be a prognostic indicator. On the other hand, the proliferative value of Ki‐67 staining was suggestive of prognosis. A proliferation index of Ki‐67 less than 10% indicated longer survival (P = 0.03). There was no correlation between Ki‐67 staining and PCNA index. As a result, the prognostic value of Ki‐67 may alert the physician to more aggressive and adjuvant treatment modalities.
Evaluation of Time of Nasal Packing After Nasal Surgery: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Lubianca‐Neto José Faibes , Sant'anna Geraldo Druck , Mauri Marcelo , Arrarte Jaime Luís Freitas , Brinckmann Carlos Alberto
Published: September 2022

A randomized, prospective trial was carried out to compare the rate of hemorrhagic complications after removal of nasal packing left for 24 and 48 hours. A total of 104 patients underwent nasal surgery and were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups: group 1, 24 hours of nasal packing; group 2, 48 hours of nasal packing. No statistical difference was observed between the groups in terms of occurrence of hemorrhagic complications. Hypertension was the only prognostic factor for postoperative bleeding. The routine use of 48‐hour postoperative nasal packing after nasal surgery is not justified because of the low incidence of bleeding and the potential associated morbidity. At the end of the procedure, surgeons should evaluate the risk of postoperative bleeding (ie, presence of hypertension) and decide whether 24‐hour nasal packing is enough.
Rate of Nitrous Oxide Exchange Across the Middle Ear Mucosa in Monkeys Before and After Blockage of the Mastoid Antrum
Authors: Doyle William J. , Alper Cuneyt M. , Banks Juliane M. , Swarts J. Douglas
Published: September 2022

OBJECTIVES

We tested the hypothesis that mastoid volume buffers the rate of change in middle ear pressure caused by transmucosal, inert gas exchange.

STUDYDESIGN

Twelve monkeys were randomly assigned to group 1 or group 2. Right ears of group 1 had sham surgery and of group 2 had obstruction of the mastoid antrum. Before and after surgery, the time constant for transmucosal N2O exchange was estimated from N2O breathing experiments. The hypothesis predicts that the postoperative time constant measured for right ears of group 2 but not group 1 is greater than that measured before surgery.

RESULTS

Mastoid antrum block significantly decreased right middle ear volume but did not affect the time constant for transmucosal N2O exchange.

CONCLUSION

A mastoid gas‐reserve function is not supported by the experimental data.

SIGNIFICANCE

These results for monkeys and the theory developed to explain the effect of mastoid volume on transmucosal inert gas exchange suggest that the results for previous experiments in humans interpreted as evidencing a mastoid gas‐reserve function are consistent with alternative explanations.
Caspase 3 Activation in Nasal Capillary in Patients with Epistaxis
Authors: Nakada Hiroto , Kase Yasuhiro , Matsunaga Toshiyuki , Komoda Tsugikazu , Iinuma Toshitaka
Published: September 2022

OBJECTIVE

We investigated whether an apoptosis of nasal microvessels contributes to probable mechanism of the onset of epistaxis.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Nasal septal mucosa of Little's areas taken from patients without (n = 19) and with (n = 26) epistaxis were examined. Active caspase‐3 in the mucosa was detected according to the methods of immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. On Western blot analysis of the homogenates of the mucosa, we also sought probable signaling factors after caspase‐3 activation.

RESULTS

Marked activation of caspase‐3 was detected in the capillaries and its neighboring muscle cells of Little's area from patients with epistaxis, and the activation was due to enhanced expression of procaspase‐3 protein and progressive cleavage of the precursor. As a result of Western blotting of signaling factors, enhanced expressions of caspase‐9 and Bax protein in the homogenates of Little's area in epistaxis group were found compared with those in control group. Increased levels of cytochrome c released into a cytosol were also detected in the capillaries in epistaxis group.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, caspase‐3 activation was found in the capillaries of Little's area from patients with epistaxis, suggesting that an apoptosis of capillaries may contribute to a mechanism of the onset of epistaxis. Moreover, alterations of some apoptotic factors such as caspase‐9, Bax, and cytochrome c in the tissues demonstrated participation of mitochondrial disturbance in one of the apoptotic mechanisms.

SIGNIFICANCE

Further explorations of the pathobiologic mechanism of capillary apoptosis can lead not only to an identification of risk factors in the onset of epistaxis but also to the development of medical therapy of epistaxis.
Treatment and Outcome of Human Bites in the Head and Neck
Authors: Stierman Karen L. , Lloyd Kristen M. , De Luca‐Pytell Danielle M. , Phillips Linda G. , Calhoun Karen H.
Published: September 2022

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to review head and neck human bite injuries for demographic, treatment, and outcome data to identify factors influencing infection.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective chart review of all human bite injuries (adult and pediatric) over 10 years.

SETTING

Tertiary referral medical center.

RESULTS

We reviewed 40 human bites (average follow‐up, 139 days). Young males were the most common victims, altercation was the most common etiology, and auricular avulsion was the most common injury. Six wounds closed primarily became infected (40%) versus no wound infection with delayed closure. Primary wound closure (P <. 01), exposed cartilage (P <. 07), and less than 48 hours of intravenous antibiotics (P <. 06) were associated with postoperative infection (P <. 01).

CONCLUSION

Human bites to the head and neck, especially those with exposed cartilage, are best treated with at least 48 hours of intravenous antibiotics and delayed surgical closure (>24 hours postinjury) to prevent infection.

SIGNIFICANCE

This information enables the clinician who sees these bite wounds infrequently to understand the treatment associated with avoiding infection.
Cost‐Effective Initial Screening for Vestibular Schwannoma: Auditory Brainstem Response or Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Authors: Rupa Vedantam , Job Anand , George Mercy , Rajshekhar Vedantam
Published: September 2022

OBJECTIVE

Our goal was to determine the cost‐effectiveness of including auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing in a screening protocol for the diagnosis of vestibular schwannoma (VS) in patients with asymmetric auditory symptoms at the Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, India, where, commonly, patients with VS have tumors greater than 2 cm at the time of diagnosis.

METHODS

Ninety patients with asymmetric audiovestibular symptoms were investigated prospectively with both ABR and gadolinum‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (GdMRI).

RESULTS

Of these 90 patients, 6 were diagnosed with VS on GdMRI. On ABR testing, 4 patients with VS had retrocochlear pathology and 2 with profound sensorineural hearing loss had no responses. ABR was found to have a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 61.9%. A protocol involving screening of all patients with asymmetric audiovestibular symptoms using ABR and only subjecting those patients with no responses or retrocochlear pathology to GdMRI would effect a savings of $1200 for every patient detected to have a VS.

CONCLUSIONS

In our hospital setting, including ABR as the preliminary screen for patients with asymmetric audiovestibular symptoms is a cost‐effective strategy.