bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting stock return volatility: The role of shrinkage approaches in a data‐rich environment
Authors: Dai Zhifeng , Li Tingyu , Yang Mi
Published: December 2021

This paper employs the prevailing shrinkage approaches, the lasso, adaptive lasso, elastic net, and ridge regression to predict stock return volatility with a large set of variables. The out‐of‐sample results reveal that shrinkage approaches exhibit superior performance relative to the benchmark of the autoregressive model and a series of competing models in terms of the out‐of‐sample R‐square and the model confidence set. By using shrinkage methods to allocate portfolio, a mean–variance investor can obtain significant economic gains. Overall, our findings confirm that shrinkage approaches can effectively improve stock return volatility forecasting in a data‐rich environment.
Distinct patterns of progressive gray and white matter degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Ishaque Abdullah , Ta Daniel , Khan Muhammad , Zinman Lorne , Korngut Lawrence , Genge Angela , Dionne Annie , Briemberg Hannah , Luk Collin , Yang Yee‐Hong , Beaulieu Christian , Emery Derek , Eurich Dean T. , Frayne Richard , Graham Simon , Wilman Alan , Dupré Nicolas , Kalra Sanjay
Published: December 2021

Progressive cerebral degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) remains poorly understood. Here, three‐dimensional (3D) texture analysis was used to study longitudinal gray and white matter cerebral degeneration in ALS from routine T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Participants were included from the Canadian ALS Neuroimaging Consortium (CALSNIC) who underwent up to three clinical assessments and MRI at four‐month intervals, up to 8 months after baseline (T0). Three‐dimensional maps of the texture feature autocorrelation were computed from T1‐weighted images. One hundred and nineteen controls and 137 ALS patients were included, with 81 controls and 84 ALS patients returning for at least one follow‐up. At baseline, texture changes in ALS patients were detected in the motor cortex, corticospinal tract, insular cortex, and bilateral frontal and temporal white matter compared to controls. Longitudinal comparison of texture maps between T0 and Tmax (last follow‐up visit) within ALS patients showed progressive texture alterations in the temporal white matter, insula, and internal capsule. Additionally, when compared to controls, ALS patients had greater texture changes in the frontal and temporal structures at Tmax than at T0. In subgroup analysis, slow progressing ALS patients had greater progressive texture change in the internal capsule than the fast progressing patients. Contrastingly, fast progressing patients had greater progressive texture changes in the precentral gyrus. These findings suggest that the characteristic longitudinal gray matter pathology in ALS is the progressive involvement of frontotemporal regions rather than a worsening pathology within the motor cortex, and that phenotypic variability is associated with distinct progressive spatial pathology.
Metformin regulates macrophage polarization via the Shh signaling pathway to improve pulmonary vascular development in bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Xiang Xiaowen , Zhou Lin , Lin Zhiwei , Qu Xia , Chen Yanru , Xia Hongping
Published: December 2021

Metformin has potential anti‐inflammatory properties and accelerates wound healing by enhancing vascular development. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of metformin on pulmonary vascular development and the underlying mechanism. Newborn mice were subcutaneously injected with metformin from day 2 after exposure to hyperoxia. Pulmonary vascular development, inflammation, and Shh signaling pathway‐related protein expression were evaluated by western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. M2 macrophage polarization was measured by flow cytometry. The effect of metformin on macrophage polarization was determined using RAW264.7 macrophages exposed to 90% oxygen in vitro. The role of metformin and purmorphamine on M1 and M2 polarization was observed by flow cytometry. M2 polarization of pulmonary macrophages was inhibited after hyperoxic exposure, and metformin increased the number of M2 macrophages in the lung on postnatal day 14. Metformin upregulated CD31 expression and suppressed inflammation in the lung of mice exposed to hyperoxia on postnatal days 7 and 14. Metformin downregulated the Gli1 expression in macrophages in the lung after exposure to hyperoxia on postnatal day 14. In vitro studies showed that metformin inhibited the Gli1 expression in RAW264.7 macrophages exposed to 90% oxygen, which was reversed after purmorphamine pretreatment. Exposure to 90% oxygen inhibited the polarization of M2 macrophages, whereas metformin increased the number of M2 macrophages. Purmorphamine reversed the effects of metformin on M2 polarization and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) upregulation in RAW264.7 macrophages exposed to hyperoxia. In conclusion, metformin regulates macrophage polarization via the Shh signaling pathway to improve pulmonary vascular development in bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
Working while studying: Employment premium or penalty for youth?
Authors: Dedehouanou Sènakpon Fidèle Ange , Tiberti Luca , Houeninvo Gbodja Hilaire , Monwanou Djohodo Inès
Published: December 2021

Most youths in developing countries leave school with only a general academic education level, slowing down their transition to the labour market. We analyse whether work experience during school can ease youth transition to first job in Benin. Using data from the 2014 School‐to‐Work Transition Survey (SWTS), we estimate a three‐equation model to control for endogenous treatment assignment and sample selection and a hazard frailty model. We find that working while studying eases transition from school to first job. However, these findings were significant only for men and youth who left school with at least a secondary education.
Oral treatment for mucopolysaccharidosis VI: Outcomes of the first phase IIa study with odiparcil
Authors: Guffon Nathalie , Chowdary Pratima , Teles Elisa Leão , Hughes Derralynn , Hennermann Julia B. , Huot‐Marchand Philippe , Faudot‐Vernier Elodie , Lacombe Olivier , Fiquet Anne , Richard Marie‐Paule , Abitbol Jean‐Louis , Tallandier Mireille , Hendriksz Christian J.
Published: December 2021

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) disorders are a group of rare, progressive lysosomal storage diseases characterized by the accumulation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and classified according to the deficient enzyme. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) of MPS VI has limited effects on ophthalmic, cardiovascular, and skeletal systems. Odiparcil is an orally available small molecule that results in the synthesis of odiparcil‐linked GAGs facilitating their excretion and reducing cellular and tissue GAG accumulation. Improve MPS treatment was a Phase 2a study of the safety, pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and efficacy of two doses of odiparcil in patients with MPS VI. The core study was a 26‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial in patients receiving ERT and an open‐label, noncomparative, single‐dose cohort not receiving ERT. Patients aged ≥ 16 years receiving ERT were randomized to odiparcil 250 or 500 mg twice daily or placebo. Patients without ERT received odiparcil 500 mg twice daily. Of 20 patients enrolled, 13 (65.0%) completed the study. Odiparcil increased total urine GAGs (uGAGs), chondroitin sulfate, and dermatan sulfate concentrations. A linear increase in uGAG levels and odiparcil exposure occurred with increased odiparcil dose. Odiparcil demonstrated a good safety and tolerability profile. Individual analyses found more improvements in pain, corneal clouding, cardiac, vascular, and respiratory functions in the odiparcil groups vs placebo. This study confirmed the mechanism of action and established the safety of odiparcil with clinical beneficial effects after only a short treatment duration in an advanced stage of disease. Further assessment of odiparcil in younger patients is needed.
A fractional‐order hybrid system of differential equations: Existence theory and numerical solutions
Authors: Shah Anwar , Ali Khan Rahmat , Khan Hasib
Published: December 2021

This paper is a study about a fractional‐order hybrid system of two fractional‐order differential equations. We have given the existence of solution and uniqueness of solutions, and finally, the numerical solutions for an application is presented. The existence results are based on the classical fixed‐point approach while the numerical results are obtained with the help of fractional‐order Euler's technique. In the numerical solutions, we can see that the orders of the differential equations are playing important role. We have given related literature for the readers for their detail explanation.
Development of a breastfeeding duration risk nomogram for use in postpartum Chinese women
Authors: Li Jun‐Yan , Huang Yi‐Yan , Huang Yi , Du Mei‐Chen , Xu Jing , Li Lu , Redding Sharon R. , Ouyang Yan‐Qiong
Published: December 2021

Previous studies have investigated influencing factors of early discontinuation of breastfeeding, but few studies have developed an easy‐to‐use tool to identify risk of breastfeeding cessation at 6 months after birth. This research team aimed to develop and validate an exclusive breastfeeding duration risk nomogram in Chinese mothers. A longitudinal cohort survey was conducted. Data were collected from 394 postpartum women in three hospitals in Hubei Province, China from December 2017 to December 2018. The LASSO regression model was used to screen for optimized factors in an exclusive breastfeeding duration model. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to construct a prediction model. Discrimination and calibration were assessed using a C‐index and calibration curve, and internal validity was established using bootstrapping validation. Factors integrated in the prediction risk nomogram were monthly household income (odds ratio [OR] = 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.95, 1.80]), experiences of breastfeeding (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: [0.92, 1.63]), attitude (OR = 1.72, 95% CI: [0.94, 3.16]), self‐efficacy (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: [1.40, 4.29]), perceived insufficient milk supply (OR = 0.12, 95% CI: [0.06, 0.25]) and postpartum depression (OR = 0.06, 95% CI: [0.02, 0.17]). The model displayed good discrimination with a C‐index of 0.87 (95% CI: [0.84, 0.91]) and good calibration. The C‐index interval validation was confirmed to be 0.86. This study resulted in the development of a novel nomogram with good accuracy to aid healthcare professionals in assessing the probability of a mother discontinuing exclusive breastfeeding at the breast before 6 months.
Warrior burial of the Late Bronze Age and Early Iron Age: The phenomenon of women warriors from the Jrapi cemetery (Shirak Province, Armenia)
Authors: Khudaverdyan Anahit Y. , Yengibaryan Azat A. , Khachatryan Hamazasp H. , Hovhanesyan Arshak A.
Published: December 2021

Study of the bone remains of two female warriors from Jrapi (Shirak Province, Armenia) burial ground (Burial 3) revealed a multiple array of traumatic lesions, which shed light on their daily activities, occupation, and warfare practice. Both women had compressive cranial lesions with the signs of healing. A bronze arrowhead once embedded in the soft tissues of the intercostal space was discovered as well as a canal in the lower epiphysis of the tibia probably left by the broken point of a bronze arrowhead. The women were likely horse riders and archers. The remains unearthed in Burial N 3 belonged to two females who seemed to live as professional warriors and were buried as individuals of rank. This tomb is the third burial discovered in Armenia that provides evidence on female warriors.
Insights into the diagnostic efficacy and macroscopic appearance of endocranial bony changes indicative of tuberculous meningitis: Three example cases from the Robert J. Terry Anatomical Skeletal Collection
Authors: Spekker Olga , Hunt David R. , Berthon William , Molnár Erika , Pálfi György
Published: December 2021

Recently, the combined macroscopic and statistical evaluation of 427 identified pre‐antibiotic era skeletons from the Terry Collection (Washington, DC, USA) revealed that there is a positive association between tuberculous meningitis (TBM) and four endocranial alteration types, namely, granular impressions (GIs), abnormal blood vessel impressions (ABVIs), periosteal appositions (PAs), and abnormally pronounced digital impressions (APDIs). Although all the four lesion types can be used as diagnostic criteria for TBM in the paleopathological practice, they do not have the same diagnostic value. The first aim of the current paper is to further highlight the diagnostic value of GIs, ABVIs, PAs, and APDIs by calculating and discussing their diagnostic sensitivity and specificity estimate values, as well as their association with each other from the 427 identified pre‐antibiotic era skeletons of the Terry Collection. The second aim is to demonstrate three example cases from the Terry Collection, who exhibit bony changes on the inner skull surface that are representative of the macromorphological appearance and co‐occurrence of GIs, ABVIs, PAs, and APDIs (in different combinations). Based on the generated sensitivity and specificity estimate values, GIs are sufficient enough on their own to make a definitive diagnosis of TBM, whereas ABVIs, PAs, and APDIs are not specific to the disease but can be of tuberculous origin. The χ2 test results regarding the association of ABVIs, PAs, and APDIs revealed that their co‐occurrence with each other (in any possible combination) is significantly more common in individuals who died of TB than in those who died of non‐TB causes—it implies that the chance of them being tuberculous in origin is higher when they simultaneously occur with each other. The three cases demonstrated in detail in the paper provide paleopathologists with a stronger basis for identifying TBM in ancient human remains that reveal endocranial alterations resembling that of the presented cases.
Neighborhood social cohesion and physical activity and obesity outcomes among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander individuals
Authors: Wang Monica L. , Narcisse Marie‐Rachelle , Alatorre Selenne , Kozak Andrea T. , McElfish Pearl A.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) individuals report high obesity rates and low physical activity (PA) levels. This study examined associations between neighborhood social cohesion, obesity, and PA among NHPI adults.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data from the 2014 NHPI National Health Interview Survey were analyzed. Social cohesion was assessed using a summative scale and categorized as low, medium, and high. PA was measured via self‐report and categorized as insufficiently active (0‐149 min/wk) or sufficiently active (150+ min/wk). Obesity status was based on self‐reported height and weight measures converted into standard BMI categories. Multivariable logistic regression models estimated odds of obesity and sufficient PA associated with social cohesion level.

Results

The study sample included n = 2,590 NHPI adults. Compared with those in low social cohesion neighborhoods, participants in high social cohesion neighborhoods had increased sufficient PA odds (odds ratio [OR] = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.19‐2.12; p = 0.003) and decreased obesity odds (OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.40‐0.83; p = 0.005). No associations were observed between social cohesion and obesity and PA outcomes comparing individuals in medium versus low social cohesion neighborhoods.

Conclusions

High social cohesion was associated with reduced obesity odds and increased sufficient PA odds. Findings highlight the importance of enhancing social connectivity as a potential strategy to promote PA and healthy weight among NHPI individuals.
Monolithic Newton‐multigrid FEM for the simulation of thixotropic flow problems
Authors: Begum Naheed , Ouazzi Abderrahim , Turek Stefan
Published: December 2021

This contribution is concerned with the application of Finite Element Method (FEM) and Newton‐Multigrid solvers to simulate thixotropic flows. The thixotropic stress dependent on material microstructure is incorporated via viscosity approach into generalized Navier‐Stokes equations. The full system of equations is solved in a monolithic framework based on Newton‐Multigrid FEM Solver. The developed solver is used to analyse the thixotropic viscoplastic flow problem in 4:1 contraction configuration.
Measured and simulated examination of the propagation paths of structure‐borne sound using the structural intensity for fibre reinforced injection moulded thermoplastic parts
Authors: Netzband Dennis , Ujma Andreas , Moritzer Elmar
Published: December 2021

In product development e.g. electromobility, engineers need to place special emphasis on acoustics. A large number of automotive interior components consist of injection‐moulded thermoplastic parts. If required these lightweight components are reinforced with fibres or fillings. This reinforcement leads to a higher vibration sensitivity and higher natural frequencies. Due to the fact that the auditory threshold decreases with a rising excitation frequency, a conflict of objective between acoustics and lightweight components exists. In order to influence the acoustic behaviour in early development stages, the structure‐borne sound including its source and propagation paths have to be analysed. An appropriate parameter by which to visualise these pieces is the structural intensity (STI) which is calculated by the product of velocity and stress. Previous investigations have mainly focused on the behaviour of isotropic materials e.g. steel calculated using FEM. An experimental determination of the STI is a challenge since the stress of a vibrating structure cannot be directly measured. Furthermore the experimental determination is limited to the surface of the structure. First investigations using FEM were carried out to examine composite materials with a unidirectional fibre orientation and revealed a high potential to influence the structural behaviour in acoustic matters, i.e. the transmission of structure‐borne sound. Therefore a current research project deals with the opportunities to influence the vibro‐acoustic behaviour of injection moulded parts using the structural intensity. In this paper a method is presented to examine the influence of fibres, fillings and geometric modifications on the STI for injection moulded parts using FEM. A method to measure the STI for orthotropic parts is also presented. In addition to a comparison between the measured and the simulated results, a look‐ahead at planned future investigations in the research project is given.
A homogenisation approach for shell structures using scaled boundary isogeometric analysis on RVE‐level
Authors: Mester Leonie , Klarmann Simon , Klinkel Sven
Published: December 2021

This contribution deals with a homogenisation approach for shell structures. A coupled multiscale approach also known as FE2 is used, which satisfies the Hill‐Mandel condition. The macroscopic structure is modelled with shell elements. Assuming periodicity of the mesostructure, which fulfils the scale separation requirement, allows the definition of a representative volume element (RVE). Using the RVE, equivalent homogeneous material parameters are obtained in order to define the overall structure. The shell strains obtained on the macroscopic scale are applied to the RVE. To model the mesostructure as 3D solids, the boundary representation from CAD is adopted. Next, Isogeometric analysis (IGA) is used for the solution on the boundary. In order to analyse the interior of the solid, IGA is combined with the scaled boundary finite element method. While the boundary is approximated using NURBS functions, the interior is approximated by B‐Splines, contrary to the use of an analytical solution in classical SBFEM. As a result, nonlinear problems can be covered. Furthermore, this approach facilitates the direct use of CAD models for analysis, which is especially useful for complex geometries on the mesostructure, e.g. for modelling laminar textile structures, such as woven fabrics or laid webs. Star‐shaped domains needed for the analysis are obtained by subdivision of the overall domain. Using NURBS basis functions for the approximation of the boundary can be problematic because the position of the control points, in contrast to the nodes in FEM, does not necessarily equal the physical coordinates. To enforce prescribed boundary conditions in the framework of homogenisation, this leads to difficulties. To overcome this problem a transition element is utilized to couple the shell kinematics on the macrostructure with the 3D solid on the mesostructure. This results in a method able to use complex geometries from CAD models as representative volume elements for shell structures.
An Implicit Discontinuous Galerkin Chimera Method for Unsteady Laminar Flow Problems with Multiple Bodies
Authors: Genuit Fabian , Keßler Manuel , Krämer Ewald
Published: December 2021

The compressible Navier‐Stokes (NS) equations are spatially discretized with the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method and an implicit backward differentiation formula of second order is used for the temporal discretization. The Chimera method is employed to realize a simple grid generation for complex technical applications consisting of multiple parts. Therefore, non‐trivial overlapping grid areas could occur in the numerical setup which require a robust implementation of the Chimera method. The flow around two circular cylinders in tandem arrangement serves as a validation case and reveals promising results for several configurations compared to reference data in literature.
Shape optimised geometries for ductile damaging materials
Authors: Guhr Fabian , Barthold Franz-Joseph
Published: December 2021

Shape optimisation is utilised to generate damage resistant structures. By means of a variational approach, the analytical gradients for an elasto‐plastic material model with regularised damage properties are derived. Due to the complexity of the underlying material model, the application of the variational approach requires additional handling of the history field. The gradients are then used for Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) which is applied to shape optimisation and thus generation of damage optimised geometries.
Recursion relations for hp‐FEM Element Matrices on quadrilaterals
Authors: Haubold Tim , Pillwein Veronika , Beuchler Sven
Published: December 2021

In this paper we consider higher order shape functions for finite elements on quadrilaterals. Using tensor products of suitable Jacobi polynomials, it can be proved that the corresponding mass and stiffness matrices are sparse with respect to polynomial degree p . Due to the orthogonal relations between Jacobi polynomials the exact values of the entries of mass and stiffness matrix can be determined. Using symbolic computation, we can find simple recurrence relations which allow us to compute the remaining nonzero entries in optimal arithmetic complexity. Besides the H1 case also the conformal basis functions for H(Div) and H(Curl) are investigated.
Damage identification in concrete using multiscale computational modeling and convolutional neural networks
Authors: Vu Giao , Timothy Jithender J. , Saenger Erik H. , Meschke Günther
Published: December 2021

Concrete is a composite material with heterogeneities across multiple length scales. Degradation of concrete due to external loadings starts with diffuse microcracking, followed by damage localization that eventually leads to structural failure. Identification of damage at an early stage of degradation reduces the costs associated with maintenance of the structure. Weak changes can be detected using diffuse ultrasonic waves (so‐called Coda waves). In this contribution, a virtual testing environment for the assessment of concrete damage using coda waves is presented. The virtual test environment combines multiscale computational modeling of concrete damage, modeling of ultrasonic wave propagation, and supervised learning. At the scale of mortar material, microcrack growth is modelled using a combination of continuum micromechanics and linear elastic fracture mechanics. The micromechanics model is incorporated into a reduced‐order Lippmann‐Schwinger based mesomodel for concrete. Synthetic concrete specimens at various damage levels are generated using the multiscale damage model and subsequently these specimens are subjected to wave propagation analysis using the rotated staggered‐grid‐finite‐difference scheme. A convolutional neural network (CNN) based supervised learning framework is further employed to classify damage given the coda signals.
Photosynthesis, yield, energy balance, and water‐use of intercropped maize and soybean
Authors: Pelech Elena A. , Alexander Brendan C. S. , Bernacchi Carl J.
Published: December 2021

By 2050, the U.S. Corn Belt will likely face a 23% increase in leaf‐to‐air vapor pressure deficit (VPDL), the driving force of evapotranspiration (ET), which may restrict maize yield improvements for rainfed agroecosystems. Alternative cropping systems, such as maize and legume intercrops, have previously demonstrated yield and resource‐use advantages over monocultures. In this study, the residual energy balance approach was used to gain insights into how an additive simultaneous maize and soybean intercrop system regulates ET and water‐use efficiency (WUE) compared to standard maize and soybean monoculture systems of the U.S. Corn Belt. Experimental field plots were rain‐fed and arranged in a randomized complete block design in three blocks. Photosynthetic capacity and grain yield of maize were conserved in the intercrop. However, its competitive dominance shaded 80%–90% of incident light for intercropped soybean at canopy closure, leading to a 94% decrease in grain yield compared to soybean monoculture. The total grain yield per unit area of the additive intercrop (land‐use efficiency) increased by 11% ± 6% (1 SE). Compared to maize monoculture, the intercrop had higher latent heat fluxes (λET) at night but lower daytime λET as the intercrop canopy surface temperature was approximately .25°C warmer, partitioning more energy to sensible heat flux. However, the diel differences in λET fluxes were not sufficient to establish a statistically significant or biologically relevant decrease in seasonal water‐use (ΣET). Likewise, the increase in land‐use efficiency by the intercrop was not sufficient to establish an increase in seasonal water‐use efficiency. Intercropping high‐performing maize and soybean cultivars in a dense configuration without negative impact suggests that efforts to increase yield and WUE may lead to improved benefits.
Open Government Data: The OECD's Swiss army knife in the transformation of government
Authors: Valli Buttow Clarissa , Weerts Sophie
Published: December 2021

Open Government Data (OGD) has been framed as a collection of tools enabling the achievement of diverse goals: to increase transparency and thus improve democracy, to boost economic development, and to enhance the efficiency of public services. To investigate the evolution of OGD, this study focuses on the work of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). To identify the underlying values and multiple purposes of OGD, we propose a Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) study, which aims to show how OGD has been forged and how the expectations towards it have evolved. This paper aims to contribute to the existing literature, offering a critical perspective of the OECD's work on OGD, as well as developing a more nuanced understanding of OGD's conceptual features. Finally, the study reveals the emergence of a data‐driven government model, paving the way for further research on its effects on Public Administration and Public Law.
An expert panel Delphi consensus statement on the use of palliative care in the management of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Wilson Melisa , Anguiano Rebekah H. , Awdish Rana L. A. , Coons James C. , Kimber Amy , Morrison Melissa , Paulus Sara , Schmit Ann , Spexarth Frank , Swetz Keith M. , Verlinden Nathan J. , Whittenhall Mary E. , Sketch Margaret R. , Broderick Meredith , Brewer Jacqueline
Published: December 2021

Mortality in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains high and referral to palliative or supportive care (P/SC) specialist services is recommended when appropriate. However, access to P/SC is frequently a challenge for patients with a noncancer diagnosis and few patients living with PAH report P/SC involvement in their care. A modified Delphi process of three questionnaires completed by a multidisciplinary panel (N = 15) was used to develop expert consensus statements regarding the use of P/SC to support patients with PAH. Panelists rated their agreement with each statement on a Likert scale. There was a strong consensus that patients should be referred to P/SC when disease symptoms become unmanageable or for end‐of‐life care. Services that achieved consensus were pain management techniques, end‐of‐life care, and psychosocial recommendations. Palliative or supportive care should be discussed with patients, preferably in‐person, when disease symptoms become unmanageable, when starting treatment, when treatment‐related adverse events occur or become refractory to initial intervention. Care partners and patient support groups were considered important in improving a patient's overall health outcomes, treatment adherence, and perception of care. Most patients with PAH experience cognitive and/or psychosocial changes and those who receive psychosocial management have better persistence and/or compliance with their treatment. These consensus statements provide guidance to healthcare providers on the “who and when” of referral to palliative care services, as well as the importance of focusing on the psychosocial aspects of patient care and quality of life.
Ventricular mass discriminates pulmonary arterial hypertension as redefined at the Sixth World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Simpson Catherine E. , Kolb Todd M. , Hsu Steven , Zimmerman Stefan L. , Corona‐Villalobos Celia P. , Mathai Stephen C. , Damico Rachel L. , Hassoun Paul M.
Published: December 2021

Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) measures of right ventricular (RV) mass, volumes, and function have diagnostic and prognostic value in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We hypothesized that RV mass‐based metrics would discriminate incident PAH as redefined by the lower mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) threshold of >20 mmHg at the Sixth World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension (6th WSPH). Eighty‐nine subjects with suspected PAH underwent CMR imaging, including 64 subjects with systemic sclerosis (SSc). CMR metrics, including RV and left ventricular (LV) mass, were measured. All subjects underwent right heart catheterization (RHC) for assessment of hemodynamics within 48 h of CMR. Using generalized linear models, associations between CMR metrics and PAH were assessed, the best subset of CMR variables for predicting PAH were identified, and relationships between mass‐based metrics, hemodynamics, and other predictive CMR metrics were examined. Fifty‐nine subjects met 6th WSPH criteria for PAH. RV mass metrics, including ventricular mass index (VMI), demonstrated the greatest magnitude difference between subjects with versus without PAH. Overall and in SSc, VMI and RV mass measured by CMR were among the most predictive variables discriminating PAH at RHC, with areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve 0.86 and 0.83. respectively. VMI increased linearly with pulmonary vascular resistance and with mPAP in PAH, including in lower ranges of mPAP associated with mild PAH. VMI ≥ 0.37 yielded a positive predictive value of 90% for discriminating PAH. RV mass metrics measured by CMR, including VMI, discriminate incident, treatment‐naïve PAH as defined by 6th WSPH criteria.
Predicting pulmonary embolism among hospitalized patients with machine learning algorithms
Authors: Ryan Logan , Maharjan Jenish , Mataraso Samson , Barnes Gina , Hoffman Jana , Mao Qingqing , Calvert Jacob , Das Ritankar
Published: December 2021

Background

Pulmonary embolisms (PE) are life‐threatening medical events, and early identification of patients experiencing a PE is essential to optimizing patient outcomes. Current tools for risk stratification of PE patients are limited and unable to predict PE events before their occurrence.

Objective

We developed a machine learning algorithm (MLA) designed to identify patients at risk of PE before the clinical detection of onset in an inpatient population.

Materials and Methods

Three machine learning (ML) models were developed on electronic health record data from 63,798 medical and surgical inpatients in a large US medical center. These models included logistic regression, neural network, and gradient boosted tree (XGBoost) models. All models used only routinely collected demographic, clinical, and laboratory information as inputs. All were evaluated for their ability to predict PE at the first time patient vital signs and lab measures required for the MLA to run were available. Performance was assessed with regard to the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity.

Results

The model trained using XGBoost demonstrated the strongest performance for predicting PEs. The XGBoost model obtained an AUROC of 0.85, a sensitivity of 81%, and a specificity of 70%. The neural network and logistic regression models obtained AUROCs of 0.74 and 0.67, sensitivity of 81% and 81%, and specificity of 44% and 35%, respectively.

Conclusions

This algorithm may improve patient outcomes through earlier recognition and prediction of PE, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment of PE.
Extracellular vesicles derived from endothelial cells in hypoxia contribute to pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell proliferation in‐vitro and pulmonary hypertension in mice
Authors: Chen Tianji , Sun Miranda R. , Zhou Qiyuan , Guzman Alyssa M. , Ramchandran Ramaswamy , Chen Jiwang , Ganesh Balaji , Raj J. Usha
Published: December 2021

In the lung, communication between pulmonary vascular endothelial cells (PVEC) and pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC) is essential for the maintenance of vascular homeostasis. In pulmonary hypertension (PH), the derangement in their cell–cell communication plays a major role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary vascular remodeling. In this study, we focused on the role of PVEC‐derived extracellular vesicles (EV), specifically their microRNA (miRNA, miR‐) cargo, in the regulation of PASMC proliferation and vascular remodeling in PH. We found that the amount of pro‐proliferative miR‐210‐3p was increased in PVEC‐derived EV in hypoxia (H‐EV), which contributes to the H‐EV‐induced proliferation of PASMC and the development of PH.
Isolation and antibiogram of Escherichia coli O157: H7 from diarrhoeic calves in urban and peri‐urban dairy farms of Hawassa town
Authors: Fesseha Haben , Mathewos Mesfin , Aliye Saliman , Mekonnen Endale
Published: December 2021

Background

Calf diarrhoea is the most serious issue in the livestock industry, resulting in significant financial losses.

Methods

A study was undertaken in 32 urban and peri‐urban dairy farms of Hawassa town to isolate E. coli from diarrhoeic calves, assess associated putative factors related to the occurrence, and the evaluate antibacterial susceptibility patterns of isolates. A convenience sampling technique was performed for the selection of these dairy farms and calf samples. A total of 68 faecal samples were collected directly from the rectum of diarrhoeic calves. The faecal samples were confirmed as E. coli O157: H7 positive using the latex agglutination test.

Results

In this study, 47(69.1%) samples were positive for E. coli, of which 22 (46.8%) were identified as E. coli O157:H7 strains based on their latex agglutination character. Factors such as frequency of calf house cleaning, type of supplement provided, and method of colostrum feeding were significantly correlated (p < 0.05) with calf diarrhoea, while the other risk factors had no significant association. Antibiogram of E. coli O157:H7 isolates showed that the isolates were highly sensitive to gentamycin, ceftriaxone, trimethoprim‐sulphamethoxazole, and ciprofloxacin and were found to be resistant to tetracycline, kanamycin and amoxicillin.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that calf diarrhoea is still a major health problem of calves in the study area. Hence, improved calf and farm management practice, an ad libitum quantity of colostrum, and good farm hygienic practices should be ensured. This study also revealed that some antibiotic‐resistant E. coli O157:H7 isolates need to be further investigated for their public health implications.
Saccharomyces yeast hybrids on the rise
Authors: Bendixsen Devin P. , Frazão João G. , Stelkens Rike
Published: December 2021

Saccharomyces hybrid yeasts are receiving increasing attention as a powerful model system to understand adaptation to environmental stress and speciation mechanisms, using experimental evolution and omics techniques. We compiled all genomic resources available from public repositories of the eight recognized Saccharomyces species and their interspecific hybrids. We present the newest numbers on genomes sequenced, assemblies, annotations, and sequencing runs, and an updated species phylogeny using orthogroup inference. While genomic resources are highly skewed towards Saccharomyces cerevisiae, there is a noticeable movement to use wild, recently discovered yeast species in recent years. To illustrate the degree and potential causes of reproductive isolation, we reanalyzed published data on hybrid spore viabilities across the entire genus and tested for the role of genetic, geographic, and ecological divergence within and between species (28 cross types and 371 independent crosses). Hybrid viability generally decreased with parental genetic distance likely due to antirecombination and negative epistasis, but notable exceptions emphasize the importance of strain‐specific structural variation and ploidy differences. Surprisingly, the viability of crosses within species varied widely, from near reproductive isolation to near‐perfect viability. Geographic and ecological origins of the parents predicted cross viability to an extent, but with certain caveats. Finally, we highlight publication trends in the field and point out areas of special interest, where hybrid yeasts are particularly promising for innovation through research and development, and experimental evolution and fermentation.
On the effective lifetime of Bs → μμγ
Authors: Carvunis Alexandre , Dettori Francesco , Gangal Shireen , Guadagnoli Diego , Normand Camille
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We consider the $$ {B}_s^0 $$

B
s
0

→ μ+μ−γ effective lifetime, and the related CP-phase sensitive quantity $$ {A}_{{\Delta \Gamma}_s}^{\mu \mu \gamma} $$

A

ΔΓ
s

μμγ

, as a way to obtain qualitatively new insights on the current B-decay discrepancies. Through a fit comparing pre- to post-Moriond-2021 data we identify a few theory benchmark scenarios addressing these discrepancies, and featuring large CP violation in addition. We then explore the possibility of telling apart these scenarios with $$ {A}_{{\Delta \Gamma}_s}^{\mu \mu \gamma} $$

A

ΔΓ
s

μμγ

, once resonance-modeling and form-factor uncertainties are taken into account. We do so in both regions of low and high invariant di-lepton mass-squared q2. For low q2, we show how to shape the integration range in order to reduce the impact of the ϕ-resonance modelling on the $$ {A}_{{\Delta \Gamma}_s}^{\mu \mu \gamma} $$

A

ΔΓ
s

μμγ

prediction. For high q2, we find that the corresponding pollution from broad-charmonium resonances has a surprisingly small effect on $$ {A}_{{\Delta \Gamma}_s}^{\mu \mu \gamma} $$

A

ΔΓ
s

μμγ

. This is due to a number of cancellations, that can be traced back to the complete dominance of semi-leptonic operator contributions for high q2 — at variance with low q2 — and to $$ {A}_{{\Delta \Gamma}_s}^{\mu \mu \gamma} $$

A

ΔΓ
s

μμγ

behaving like a ratio-of-amplitudes observable. Our study suggests that $$ {A}_{{\Delta \Gamma}_s}^{\mu \mu \gamma} $$

A

ΔΓ
s

μμγ

is — especially at high q2 — a potentially valuable probe of short-distance CP-violating effects in the very same Wilson coefficients that are associated to current b → s discrepancies. Its discriminating power, however, relies on progress in form-factor uncertainties. Interestingly, high q2 is the region where $$ {B}_s^0 $$

B
s
0

→ μ+μ−γ is already being accessed experimentally, and the region where form factors are more accessible through non-perturbative QCD methods.
Is postoperative transanastomotic feeding beneficial in neonates with congenital duodenal obstruction?
Authors: Treider Martin , Engebretsen Anders Hauge , Skari Hans , Bjørnland Kristin
Published: December 2021

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate possible positive and negative effects of postoperative use of transanastomotic feeding tube (TAFT) in neonates operated for congenital duodenal obstruction (CDO).

Methods

This is a retrospective study reviewing medical records of neonates operated for CDO during 2003–2020 and comparing postoperative feeding outcomes and complications in patients with and without TAFT. Approval from the hospital’s data protection officer was obtained.

Results

One hundred patients, 59% girls, were included, and 37% received TAFT. Mean birth weight and gestational age were 2628 (675.1) grams and 36.6 (2.4) weeks, respectively. Furthermore, 45% had no other malformations, and 36% had Down syndrome. Patient demographics were similar for TAFT and not-TAFT patients, except that not-TAFT neonates weighed median 335 g less (p = 0.013). The TAFT group got parenteral nutrition 2 days shorter (p < 0.001) and started enteral feeds 1.5 days earlier (p < 0.001) than the not-TAFT group. Fewer neonates with TAFT got a central venous catheter [65 vs 89%, (p = 0.008)]. In the TAFT group, 67% were breast fed at discharge compared to 49% in the not-TAFT group (p = 0.096).

Conclusion

Neonates with TAFT had earlier first enteral feed, fewer days with parenteral nutrition and fewer placements of central venous catheters.
Short-term preoperative drainage is associated with improved postoperative outcomes compared to that of long-term biliary drainage in pancreatic surgery
Authors: Oehme F. , Hempel S. , Pecqueux M. , Müssle B. , Hau H. M. , Teske C. , von Bechtolsheim F. , Seifert L. , Distler M. , Welsch T. , Weitz J. , Kahlert Cristoph
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The treatment of choice for patients presenting with obstructive cholestasis due to periampullary carcinoma is oncologic resection without preoperative biliary drainage (PBD). However, resection without PBD becomes virtually impossible in patients with obstructive cholangitis or severely impaired liver cell function. The appropriate duration of drainage by PBD has not yet been defined for these patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 170 patients scheduled for pancreatic resection following biliary drainage between January 2012 and June 2018 at the University Hospital Dresden in Germany. All patients were deemed eligible for inclusion, regardless of the underlying disease entity. The primary endpoint analysis was defined as the overall morbidity (according to the Clavien-Dindo classification). Secondary endpoints were the in-hospital mortality and malignancy adjusted overall and recurrence-free survival rates.

Results

A total of 170 patients were included, of which 45 (26.5%) and 125 (73.5%) were assigned to the short-term (< 4 weeks) and long-term (≥ 4 weeks) preoperative drainage groups, respectively.

Surgical complications (Clavien-Dindo classification > 2) occurred in 80 (47.1%) patients, with significantly fewer complications observed in the short-term drainage group (31.1% vs. 52%; p = 0.02). We found that long-term preoperative drainage (unadjusted OR, 3.386; 95% CI, 1.507–7.606; p < 0.01) and periampullary carcinoma (unadjusted OR, 5.519; 95% CI, 1.722–17.685; p-value < 0.01) were independent risk factors for postoperative morbidity, based on the results of a multivariate regression model. The adjusted overall and recurrence-free survival did not differ between the groups (p = 0.12).

Conclusion

PBD in patients scheduled for pancreatic surgery is associated with substantial perioperative morbidity. Our results indicate that patients who have undergone PBD should be operated on within 4 weeks after drainage.
Integrative Approach Uncovers New Patterns of Ecomorphological Convergence in Slow Arboreal Xenarthrans
Authors: Alfieri Fabio , Botton-Divet Léo , Nyakatura John A. , Amson Eli
Published: December 2021

Identifying ecomorphological convergence examples is a central focus in evolutionary biology. In xenarthrans, slow arboreality independently arose at least three times, in the two genera of ‘tree sloths’,BradypusandCholoepus, and the silky anteater,Cyclopes. This specialized locomotor ecology is expectedly reflected by distinctive morpho-functional convergences.Cyclopes, although sharing several ecological features with ‘tree sloths’, do not fully mirror the latter in their outstandingly similar suspensory slow arboreal locomotion. We hypothesized that the morphology ofCyclopesis closer to ‘tree sloths’ than to anteaters, but yet distinct, entailing that slow arboreal xenarthrans evolved through ‘incomplete’ convergence. In a multivariate trait space, slow arboreal xenarthrans are hence expected to depart from their sister taxa evolving toward the same area, but not showing extensive phenotypical overlap, due to the distinct position ofCyclopes.Conversely, a pattern of ‘complete’ convergence (i.e., widely overlapping morphologies) is hypothesized for ‘tree sloths’. Through phylogenetic comparative methods, we quantified humeral and femoral convergence in slow arboreal xenarthrans, including a sample of extant and extinct non-slow arboreal xenarthrans. Through 3D geometric morphometrics, cross-sectional properties (CSP) and trabecular architecture, we integratively quantified external shape, diaphyseal anatomy and internal epiphyseal structure. Several traits converged in slow arboreal xenarthrans, especially those pertaining to CSP. Phylomorphospaces and quantitative convergence analyses substantiated the expected patterns of ‘incomplete’ and ‘complete’ convergence for slow arboreal xenarthrans and ‘tree sloths’, respectively. This work, highlighting previously unidentified convergence patterns, emphasizes the value of an integrative multi-pronged quantitative approach to cope with complex mechanisms underlying ecomorphological convergence.