bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test–Retest Reproducibility of In Vivo Magnetization Transfer Ratio and Saturation Index in Mice at 9.4 Tesla
Authors: Rahman Naila , Ramnarine Jordan , Xu Kathy , Brown Arthur , Baron Corey A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Magnetization transfer saturation (MTsat) imaging was developed to reduce T1 dependence and improve specificity to myelin, compared to the widely used MT ratio (MTR) approach, while maintaining a feasible scan time. As MTsat imaging is an emerging technique, the reproducibility of MTsat compared to MTR must be evaluated.

Purpose

To assess the test–retest reproducibility of MTR and MTsat in the mouse brain at 9.4 T and calculate sample sizes potentially required to detect effect sizes ranging from 6% to 14%.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Twelve healthy C57Bl/6 mice.

Field Strength/Sequence

9.4 T; magnetization transfer imaging using FLASH‐3D Gradient Echo; T2‐weighted TurboRARE spin echo.

Assessment

All mice were scanned at two timepoints (5 days apart). MTR and MTsat maps were analyzed using mean region‐of‐interest (ROIs: corpus callosum [CC], internal capsule [IC], hippocampus [HC], cortex [CX], and thalamus [TH]), and whole brain voxel‐wise analysis.

Statistical Tests

Bland–Altman plots were used to assess biases between test–retest measurements. Test–retest reproducibility was evaluated via between and within‐subject coefficients of variation (bsCV and wsCV, respectively). Sample sizes required were calculated (significance level: 95%; power: 80%), given effect sizes ranging from 6% to 14%, using both between and within‐subject approaches. Results were considered statistically significant at P ≤ 0.05.

Results

Bland–Altman plots showed negligible biases between test–retest sessions (MTR: 0.0009; MTsat: 0). ROI‐based and voxel‐wise CVs revealed high reproducibility for both MTR (ROI‐bsCV/wsCV: CC—4.5/2.8%; IC—6.1/5.2%; HC—5.7/4.6%; CX—5.1/2.3%; TH—7.4/4.9%) and MTsat (ROI‐bsCV/wsCV: CC—6.3/4.8%; IC—7.3/5.1%; HC—9.5/6.4%; CX—6.7/6.5%; TH—7.2/5.3%). With a sample size of 6, changes on the order of 15% could be detected in MTR and MTsat, both between and within subjects, while smaller changes (6%–8%) required sample sizes of 10–15 for MTR, and 15–20 for MTsat.

Data Conclusion

MTsat exhibited comparable reproducibility to MTR, while providing sensitivity to myelin with less T1 dependence than MTR.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Raman spectroscopy of isotopically pure and diluted high‐ and low‐density amorphous ices
Authors: Ishihara Senri , Takayama Tetsuyuki , Sakaguchi Miyuki , Otosu Takuhiro , Yagasaki Takuma , Suzuki Yoshiharu , Yamaguchi Shoichi
Published: February 2022

We present an experimental and theoretical study of Raman spectroscopy of isotopically pure and diluted amorphous as well as crystalline ices at 30 K. Our experiments comprise polarized (VV) and depolarized (VH) spectra in the OH‐stretch region, whereas our calculations involve molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of the high‐ and low‐density amorphous ices through vitrification and subsequent formulation of vibrational Hamiltonian of coupled OH oscillators in the hydrogen‐bond network of the ices. Our theoretical Raman VV and VH spectra at each isotopic dilution are in good agreement with the experimental data. This allows us not only to carry out detailed spectral assignments for the amorphous and crystalline ices from the viewpoint of vibrational phase, delocalization, and density of states but also to confirm the reliability of the MD simulation in which deeply supercooled liquid water spontaneously separates into high‐ and low‐density fluid phases below a liquid–liquid critical point.
Error analysis of sparkle contrast by applying image subtraction method
Authors: Kurashige Makio , Furui Gen , Ishida Kazutoshi , Nishio Shumpei , Kuzuhara Mitsuhiro , Suzuki Hiroko , Tsujimoto Jun , Tsunekawa Masayuki , Iwata Yukimitsu , Nakamura Norinaga
Published: February 2022

Measurement error of sparkle contrast was investigated by applying image subtraction method. The sparkle contrast was measured by changing the region of interest (ROI) and the imaging F‐number, while the measurement distance was fixed. The statistical error was dependent on the size of the ROI. It was suppressed when the ROI was over 100 × 100 LMD pixels under the condition which the intensity modulation of the image of the display matrix elements optically disappeared on the LMD sensor plane by choosing the specific combination of the effective F‐number of the imaging lens, the pitch of the display matrix element, and the optical magnification. The ratio of the intensity standard deviation of the subtracted image to that of the original image could be used as an error indicator of the statistical error by insufficient sampling points. It could also be used for analyzing the error caused by the low‐frequency intensity variations within the ROI. In case that the low‐frequency intensity variations were not eliminated from the measured sparkle pattern, the sparkle contrast kept changing with increasing the ROI. The error indicator was not converged to the certain value even if the size of the ROI was over 100 × 100 LMD pixels.
β‐Ketoenamine‐linked covalent organic framework absorbent for online micro‐solid phase extraction of trace levels bisphenols in plastic samples
Authors: Zhang Chengjiang , Yuan Hongmei , Lu Zeyi , Li Yuhuang , Zhao Lirong , Zhang Zhuomin , Li Gongke
Published: February 2022

Covalent organic frameworks with tunable porous crystallinity and outstanding stability have exhibited fascinating pretreatment performance as ideal extraction media. Herein, the β‐ketoenamine‐linked TpPa‐1 synthesized by 1,3,5‐triformylphloroglucinol and paraphenylenediamine was employed as the absorbent for online micro‐solid phase extraction of trace bisphenols combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography detection. A series of characterizations indicated that the TpPa‐1 possessed large surface areas, high stability, and hydrophobicity. The main experimental parameters affecting the extraction efficiency were optimized in detail. Compared with four commercial sorbents, the TpPa‐1 exhibited superior enrichment capacity for extracting bisphenols. Under the optimum conditions, the established method demonstrated a wide linear range and high sensitivity with the limit of detection ranging from 0.05–0.06 μg/L. Furthermore, the developed method was successfully applied to determine bisphenols in plastic samples. Bisphenol A was actually detected in a transparent box with a concentration of 0.31 μg/g, and the recoveries of the four bisphenols in the plastic samples were 80.5–116% with the relative standard deviation less than 9.2%. Such performance was attributed to recognition affinity, including the π‐π affinity, hydrophobic effect, and hydrogen bond. These results demonstrated that TpPa‐1 possessed great potential to be an excellent pretreatment medium for online separation and analysis of trace analytes in complex samples.
Variation in Fetal Weight Percentile Estimates
Authors: Khatri Garvit D. , Richardson Michael L. , Dighe Manjiri , Dubinsky Theodore J.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Weight percentiles are generally reported without any indication of error. This variation can lead a fetus being mistakenly classified erroneously as having intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or macrosomia. The goal of this study was to compare estimated weight percentiles with the actual observed weight percentile for each gestational age in a large cohort of fetuses being scanned in our institution.

Methods

After IRB approval the radiology information system data base was retrospectively searched for all obstetrical US reports obtained during the late second and third trimesters from July 1, 2014, until July 1, 2020. Demographic information, fetal weight, and weight percentile information were obtained from these reports. Quantile‐quantile plots were created for all gestational ages and all ethnicities.

Results

Our study included 6259 ultrasounds in 4060 patients. Mean maternal age of the total group was 31.68 years (ranging 15–53 years). When all subjects were considered, the median values in our QQ plots approximated the line of identity. However, there was considerable variation for a given estimate, implying that estimated fetal weight percentiles are only very rough predictors of the actual percentile.

Conclusion

Estimated fetal weight percentiles are only very rough predictors of the actual percentile. We therefore suggest that estimates of the weight percentile should be reported along with an estimate of the expected variation. Recognition of variations in weight percentile should be considered in the greater clinical context, and could potentially prevent misdiagnosis of growth restriction and macrosomia as well as the subsequent overutilization of resources, unnecessary interventions, and maternal stress.
Standardizing the clinical and dermatoscopic exam for patients with afro‐textured hair and scarring alopecia: A scoping review and clinical guide
Authors: Adotama Prince , Shapiro Jerry , Lo Sicco Kristen , London Ashley O. , Ederaine Sophia A. , Rotemberg Veronica , Mayo Tiffany
Published: February 2022

Alopecia is one of the most common reasons for a dermatology visit among Black patients. Patients with concomitant afro‐textured hair and scarring alopecias are often subjected to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Race‐discordant physicians may find the examination of scarring alopecias in ethnic hair to be daunting. Herein we present a standardized approach to evaluating the hair and scalp in afro‐textured alopecia patients in the hopes of providing a framework and guide for the proper clinical assessment of these patients. This guide focuses on common scarring alopecias specific to this ethnic population including traction alopecia, central centrifugal alopecia, frontal fibrosing alopecia and lichen planopilaris.
2.45 GHz natural polymer‐based flexible bandpass filter exploiting laser structuring
Authors: Sid Abdelghafour , Cresson Pierre‐Yves , Joly Nicolas , Braud Flavie , Genestie Benoit , Lasri Tuami
Published: February 2022

This article presents the realization of a bandpass filter on a flexible biopolymer substrate with a suitable fabrication process. We used copper adhesive tape and laser structuring to fabricate the filter based on a quasi‐lumped microstrip structure. The filter characteristics are a central frequency of 2.45 GHz, a bandwidth of 20%, and insertion loss of 1.2 dB. It is demonstrated that the filter's performance remains almost constant under different bending, folding, and rolling conditions. The results show that the proposed bio‐sourced polymer is a good candidate for flexible green electronics and wearable applications.
Technical note: Determining the applicability of a clinical knowledge‐based learning model via prospective outlier detection
Authors: Zhang Jiahan , Sheng Yang , Wolf Jonathan , Kayode Oluwatosin , Bradley Jeffrey , Ge Yaorong , Wu Q Jackie , Yang Xiaofeng , Liu Tian , Roper Justin
Published: February 2022

Background

Knowledge‐based planning (KBP) is increasingly implemented clinically because of its demonstrated ability to improve treatment planning efficiency and reduce plan quality variations. However, cases with large dose‐volume histogram (DVH) prediction uncertainties may still need manual adjustments by the planner to achieve high plan quality.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a data‐driven method to detect patients with high prediction uncertainties so that intentional effort is directed to these patients.

Methods

We apply an anomaly detection method known as the local outlier factor (LOF) to a dataset consisting of the training set and each of the prospective patients considered, to evaluate their likelihood of being an anomaly when compared with the training cases. Features used in the LOF analysis include anatomical features and the model‐generated DVH principal component scores. To test the efficacy of the proposed model, 142 prostate patients were retrieved from the clinical database and split into a training dataset of 100 patients and a test dataset of 42 patients. The outlier identification performance was quantified by the difference between the DVH prediction root‐mean‐squared errors (RMSE) of the identified outlier cases and that of the remaining inlier cases.

Results

With a predefined LOF threshold of 1.4, the inlier cases achieved average RMSEs of 5.0 and 6.7 for bladder and rectum, while the outlier cases have substantially higher RMSEs of 6.7 and 13.0 in comparison.

Conclusions

We propose a method that can determine the prospective patient's outlier status. This method can be integrated into existing automated treatment planning workflows to reduce the risk of generating suboptimal treatment plans while providing an upfront alert to the treatment planner.
Children and adolescents’ preferences for support when living with a dying parent – An integrative review
Authors: Bergersen Emily Beatrice , Larsson Maria , Olsson Cecilia
Published: February 2022

Aim

To identify and synthesize the evidence base regarding children and adolescents’ preferences for support when living with a dying parent.

Design

Integrative literature review study.

Methods

Searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, Sociological Abstracts and Scopus, between 1 October 2019 and May 2021. Data were analysed and synthesized using integrative thematic analysis according to the analysis stages specified by Whittermore and Knafl.

Results

Twenty‐two articles were identified. Children and adolescents’ preferences for support were described through one overarching theme, Striving to achieve control and balance, together with six subthemes; “Involvement in the sick parent's care and treatment”; “Wanting to be with the sick parent but needing respite”; “Information must be continuous and individually adapted”; “emotional and communicative support from parents and family members”; “professional, compassionate and informative support”; and “support in friendships and opportunities to maintain normality.”
Specifying subsistence strategies of early farmers: New results from compound‐specific isotopic analysis of amino acids
Authors: Rey Léonie , Naito Yuichi I. , Chikaraishi Yoshito , Rottier Stéphane , Goude Gwenaëlle , Ohkouchi Naohiko
Published: February 2022

Understanding the contribution of fish to the human diet is an important debate in past population studies as it implies specific organization (e.g., adapted techniques and gender‐based activities) and relationship with the local or sublocal environments (e.g., mobility and seasonal‐based exploitation). In the Paris Basin, the role of fish has been discussed mainly from rare but obvious archaeological remains such as fish bones or hooks. Previous isotopic data from Neolithic human bone bulk collagen highlighted the potential of freshwater resources in protein diet but were not able to quantify it or even confirm its role. In this study, we conducted, for the first time on early farmers from France, compound‐specific isotope analysis on bone collagen amino acids (CSIA‐AA). Results indicate a particularly high trophic level of some humans with protein intake mainly based on terrestrial animal resources (domestic cattle and pig), whereas others rather have a plant‐based diet. Freshwater resources appeared to be not significant, and several possible food combinations are discussed. Pig particularly appears more herbivorous than previously assumed and has possibly consumed manured cereals from human food waste.
Statistical design of an adaptive synthetic X¯$\bar{X}$ control chart for autocorrelated processes
Authors: Quintero‐Arteaga Carmen , Peñabaena‐Niebles Rita , Vélez Jorge I. , Jubiz‐Diaz Maria
Published: February 2022

This paper aims to design a variable parameters synthetic control chart for first‐order AR(1) autocorrelated data following a Gaussian process. To improve the statistical performance in detecting small changes and maintaining a low false alarm rate, the variable parameters control chart was combined with the Conforming Run Length (CRL) sub‐chart to determine when to implement tight or relaxed control and intervene to identify an assignable cause. The statistical design of the proposed chart was performed under a discrete‐time Markov chain approach and a non‐linear programming mathematical model to obtain, using a genetic algorithm (GA), the values of the design parameters that minimise the average time to signal the out‐of‐control state (). A sensitivity analysis was performed to examine the behaviour of the in the face on changes in the parameters. Also, a performance evaluation was conducted to compare the proposed chart with other adaptive synthetic charts, the synthetic control chart and the chart developed by Costa and Machado. Our results indicate that this proposal is faster to detect small changes in the process mean considering the autocorrelation of the data.
Fatal disseminated mucormycosis associated with COVID‐19
Authors: Horiguchi Tomoya , Tsukamoto Tetsuya , Toyama Yoko , Sasaki Toshiharu , Nakamura Tomoyuki , Sakurai Aki , Kuriyama Naohide , Komatsu Satoshi , Shigeyasu Yoshiko , Ina Takuma , Sakurai Eiko , Nakajima Noriko , Tsuchimori Arisa , Yamada Seiji , Suzuki Tadaki , Imaizumi Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2022

Secondary fungal infections are a critical problem that accompany immunosuppressive therapy for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). We report a fatal case of COVID‐19 with disseminated mucormycosis diagnosed during autopsy. A 58‐year‐old man with diabetes was hospitalized for severe COVID‐19 and treated with remdesivir, systemic steroids and tocilizumab. Following treatment, he was provided extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support. However, he died of multiple organ failure accompanied by pulmonary and kidney infarction, as revealed by computed tomography. Autopsy revealed that the infarction was caused by thromboangiitis due to mucormycosis in the brain, lungs, heart, liver and kidneys. Therefore, the diagnosis of disseminated mucormycosis was established. Disseminated mucormycosis is a rare complication of COVID‐19. Although its early diagnosis is difficult, the disease progresses rapidly. Hence, we propose that immunosuppressive treatment for COVID‐19 should be administered with caution considering the risk of developing severe opportunistic infections, such as mucormycosis.
Response of arid‐land macroinvertebrate communities to extremes of drought, wildfire, and monsoonal flooding
Authors: Webster Jordan S. , Gido Keith B. , Hedden Skyler C. , Propst David L. , Whitney James E.
Published: February 2022

Observing spatial and temporal variation in aquatic communities provides insight into factors driving community structure. These observations are particularly important as ecosystems are being challenged by new extremes associated with a changing climate. However, since the timing of disturbances is unpredictable, capturing their effects is difficult, unless a study is already gathering data prior to and after these events. During a 2008–2016 study on the spatial and temporal variation of aquatic macroinvertebrate communities in the Gila River of New Mexico, a severe drought from 2011 to 2013, two mega‐wildfires in 2011 and 2012, and the third‐largest monsoon flood on record in 2013 occurred, providing an opportunity to document how these disturbances structure macroinvertebrate communities. Taxonomic richness and biomass of many individual taxa decreased following the wildfires and the extreme flood, yet the total biomass of the macroinvertebrate community decreased only slightly. We also found an association between the response of some taxa to inter‐annual variation in hydrologic conditions and habitat use. This was evidenced by an increase in the relative biomass of taxa associated with pool habitats, such as Nematoda and Ceratopogonidae during drought years, whereas taxa from riffle habitats, such as mayfly (Leptophlebiidae) and stonefly (Perlodidae) nymphs increased in biomass in relatively wet years. Two groups of stonefly nymphs (Nemouridae and Taeniopterygidae) notably increased following the large monsoonal flooding in 2013. Collectively, the observed responses of macroinvertebrates to extreme hydrologic, wildfire and climate disturbances suggest that increasing frequency of disturbance might result in directional changes in the macroinvertebrate communities due to taxa‐specific responses to those events.
Track data to measure effectiveness of early alerts
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: February 2022

An effective early alert system can help your institution provide interventions and guide students to resources that can help them succeed. But do you know whether your early alert process is having the impact it should, and whether staff and faculty members and students understand what it's for and how it's used?
Did university's search of fraternity students violate their constitutional rights?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: February 2022

Three students at Indiana University, Bloomington decided to pledge Beta Theta Pi fraternity. The students, like all students at the university, were required to carry a university identification card as a condition of their attendance. The identification card tracked every time they entered or used a university facility, including residence hall rooms, elevators, and residence hall common areas. It also tracked other swipe data, such as library book checkouts, parking garage/meter access, meal purchases at dining halls, and more.
Dumbbell Plate‐Shaped AIEgen‐Based Luminescent MOF with High Quantum Yield as Self‐Enhanced ECL Tags: Mechanism Insights and Biosensing Application
Authors: Li Jingshuai , Jia Hongying , Ren Xiang , Li Yuyang , Liu Lei , Feng Ruiqing , Ma Hongmin , Wei Qin
Published: February 2022

It is widely known that high‐performance electrochemiluminescence (ECL) emitters play a crucial part in improving the detection sensitivity of the ECL strategy. Through the combination of aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens), 1,1,2,2‐tetra(4‐carboxylbiphenyl)ethylene (H4TCBPE) with Zr(IV) cations, a dumbbell plate‐shaped metal−organic framework (MOF) with high luminous efficiency is synthesized as ECL tags. The resultant MOF exhibits stronger ECL activity than those of H4TCBPE monomers and aggregates. Herein, this phenomenon is defined as the coordination‐triggered electrochemiluminescence (CT‐ECL) enhancement effect. Furthermore, the nearly matched ECL and photoluminescence (PL) spectra imply the bandgap emission mechanism. Remarkably, polyethyleneimine (PEI) as the coreactant is covalently connected with MOF to form the uniquely self‐enhanced ECL complex of Zr‐TCBPE‐PEI, where the robust ECL signal is captured owing to the intramolecular‐like coreaction acceleration. Based on the resonance energy transfer (RET) behavior, the AuPd@SiO2 composite is designed as the high‐efficiency quencher. In this manner, an innovative and ultrasensitive ECL sensor is constructed for neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) detection through sandwich‐type immunoreaction, with the detection limit down to 52 fg ml−1. The present study has gone some way toward designing MOF‐based self‐luminescent ECL materials, thus paving a new avenue to expand the late‐model ECL emitters for immunoassay.
Current evolutions, applications, and challenges of phosphatidylethanol analysis for clinical and forensic purposes
Authors: Luginbühl Marc , Van Uytfanghe Katleen , Stöth Frederike , Wurst Friedrich M. , Stove Christophe P.
Published: February 2022

Phosphatidylethanols (PEth) are a group of abnormal phospholipids which are formed within the human body in the presence of ethanol. As PEth accumulates in red blood cells, which prolongs its detectability, it became popular as a direct alcohol biomarker. When alcohol is consumed regularly, PEth concentrations in the human blood reach an equilibrium (plateau) between formation and degradation which is representative of drinking habits. A wide range of applications has been demonstrated for PEth, whereby in most studies it could provide advancements regarding accuracy and precision when compared to already established alcohol biomarkers (carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin, gamma‐glutamyltransferase, and ethyl glucuronide). Although PEth has been the focus of many research projects all around the world, the final breakthrough from the research laboratory into the clinical mass market is still ongoing. In this overview article, we discuss the evolution of PEth analysis, its applications, and the associated challenges. The main reasons that hinder the use of PEth in the mass market were identified as (a) the lack of implementing a uniform reference measurement system, which should ensure that every single PEth result is comparable and/or (b) ensuring good laboratory practice dedicated to PEth analysis, which should guarantee that every result obtained by an individual laboratory is correct. These challenges regarding PEth analytics must be carefully addressed in the near future before the implementation of common cut‐off values and international guidelines can take place.

This article is categorized under:

Toxicology > Alcohol

Toxicology > Analytical Toxicology

Toxicology > Drug Analysis
Recent estimate of Asian elephants in Borneo reveals a smaller population
Authors: Cheah Cheryl , Yoganand K.
Published: February 2022

Asian elephants occurring in northern Borneo form a geographically isolated and genetically distinct population. Of this, the subpopulation of Central Sabah holds the greatest opportunity for long‐term survival, due to a relatively large population size and occurrence over a vast, contiguous and protected habitat. We surveyed this subpopulation in 2015 using advanced methods to obtain a population size estimate. We used the distance‐sampling framework and laid out transects following a stratified random design for counting elephant dung piles; measured dung decay following the ‘retrospective' method; and used Bayesian analysis to estimate dung decay rate and dung pile density. Thus, we estimated a posterior mean dung decay rate of 212 days (95% BCI: 133–319), an overall elephant density of 0.07 per km2(95% BCI: 0.03–0.11) and a population size of 387 elephants (95% BCI: 169–621). These estimates were far lower than the population size of 1132 individuals and density of 1.18 per km2estimated in 2008. It is unlikely that there has been a steep population decline, as there were no drastic land‐use changes between 2008 and 2015, nor were there other identifiable causes for a population decline. Therefore, it appears that the methodological and analytical flaws in the previous estimate are the most plausible reason for this observed difference. Given that the new estimate suggests a much smaller population, it is prudent and precautionary to use the new estimate as the basis for all policy decisions and conservation actions for elephants in Sabah.
Compactness of brane moduli and the String Lamppost Principle in d > 6
Authors: Bedroya Alek , Hamada Yuta , Montero Miguel , Vafa Cumrun
Published: February 2022

Abstract

We demonstrate the validity of the String Lamppost Principle — that all consistent theories of quantum gravity are in the String Landscape — for supersymmetric theories in d > 6 using compactness and connectedness of the moduli space of small instantons, as well as the classification of the associated Coulomb branch.
Self-reported medication adherence and pharmacy refill adherence among persons with ischemic stroke: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Norberg Helena , Sjölander Maria , Glader Eva-Lotta , Gustafsson Maria
Published: February 2022

Purpose

To describe and compare self-reported medication adherence assessed with the 5-item version of Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS-5) and pharmacy refill adherence based on data from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register (SPDR) among persons with ischemic stroke, and to investigate independent predictors associated with respective assessments.

Methods

A study questionnaire was sent to persons with ischemic stroke registered in the Swedish Stroke Register between Dec 2011 and March 2012, and who lived at home 3 months after discharge. The primary outcome was dichotomized to adherent/non-adherent based on MARS-5 and SPDR and analyzed with multivariable logistic regression. Adherence according to MARS-5 was defined as score 23 or higher (out of 25). Adherence according to SPDR was defined as at least one filled statin prescription recorded in SPDR in each 6-month interval during 2 years of follow-up.

Results

Of 420 participants, 367 (87%) and 329 (78%) were adherent according to MARS-5 and SPDR, respectively, and 294 (70%) participants were adherent according to both assessments. A significant association was shown between medication adherence according to the two assessments (p = 0.020). Independent predictors associated with medication adherence according to MARS-5 were female sex, while factors associated with SPDR were male sex and being younger.

Conclusions

The majority of participants were classified as adherent, 87% according to MARS-5 and 78% based on data from SPDR. However, only 70% were adherent according to both MARS-5 and SPDR, and different predictors were associated with the different measurements, suggesting that these assessments are measuring different aspects of adherence.
Surgical Catastrophic Health Expenditure and Risk Factors for Out‐of‐Pocket Expenditure at a South African Public Sector Hospital
Authors: Naidu P. , Ataguba J. E. , Shrime M. , Alkire B. C. , Chu K. M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Worldwide, 3.7 billion people risk financial catastrophe if they require surgery, mostly affecting the poorest populations. Surgical care associated with catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) has not been well‐described in the South African context. The objectives of this study were to determine: (1) the proportion of surgical patients at a South African hospital who experienced CHE and impoverishing health expenditure (IHE); and (2) the risk factors for out‐of‐pocket (OOP) payments.

Methods

A cross‐sectional prospective questionnaire was administered to participants admitted for a surgical procedure at New Somerset Hospital, Cape Town. CHE was defined in three ways: (1) 40% or more of capacity‐to‐pay, (2) 25% of annual household expenditure, or (3) 10% of annual household expenditure. IHE was described as the number of participants who experienced new or worsening impoverishment after surgery.

Results

Two hundred and seventy‐four participants were interviewed, and 263 were included in the analysis (4% attrition rate). Two (0.8%) participants experienced CHE. 98.5% of participants spent less than 10% of their annual household expenditure and 43 participants (16.7%) experienced IHE. Risk factors for OOP expenditure were cancer diagnosis (p = 0.0386), an elective procedure (p = 0.0001), and having a limited health insurance plan (p = 0.0492).

Discussion

Most participants undergoing a surgical procedure did not experience CHE. Participants were relatively protected from financial catastrophe owing to subsidized user fees and the provision of transport. However, 17% of patients experienced IHE, suggesting even small payments resulted in impoverishment. Ensuring low financial vulnerabilities around surgical care is an important consideration for national surgical planning in South Africa.
Impact of myopenia and myosteatosis on postoperative outcome and recurrence in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Pozios Ioannis , Kaufmann David , Boubaris Katharina , Seeliger Hendrik , Weixler Benjamin , Stroux Andrea , Kamphues Carsten , Margonis Georgios Antonios , Kreis Martin E. , Beyer Katharina , Seifarth Claudia , Lauscher Johannes C.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Myopenia and myosteatosis have been proposed to be prognostic factors of surgical outcomes for various diseases, but their exact role in Crohn’s disease (CD) is unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate their impact on anastomotic leakage, CD recurrence, and postoperative complications after ileocecal resection in patients with CD.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of CD patients undergoing ileocecal resection at our tertiary referral center was performed. To assess myopenia, skeletal muscle index (skeletal muscle area normalized for body height) was measured using an established image analysis method at third lumbar vertebra level on MRI cross-sectional images. Muscle signal intensity was measured to assess myosteatosis index.

Results

A total of 347 patients were retrospectively analyzed. An adequate abdominal MRI scan within 12 months prior to surgery was available for 223 patients with median follow-up time of 48.8 months (IQR: 20.0–82.9). Anastomotic leakage rate was not associated with myopenia (SMI: p = 0.363) or myosteatosis index (p = 0.821). Patients with Crohn’s recurrence had a significantly lower SMI (p = 0.047) in univariable analysis, but SMI was not an independent factor for recurrent anastomotic stenosis in multivariable analysis (OR 0.951, 95% CI 0.840–1.078; p = 0.434). Postoperative complications were not associated with myopenia or myosteatosis.

Conclusion

Based on the largest cohort of its kind with a long follow-up time, we could provide some data that MRI parameters for myopenia and myosteatosis may not be reliable predictors of postoperative outcome or recurrence in patients with Crohn’s disease undergoing ileocecal resection.
Routh reducibility and controllability of unstable mechanical systems
Authors: Vizi Mate B. , Horvath Daniel M. , Stepan Gabor
Published: February 2022

Routh reduction presents the minimum number of differential equations that uniquely describe the state of nonlinear mechanical systems where the state variables can be separated into essential ones and cyclic ones. This work extends Routh reducibility for a relevant set of controlled mechanical systems. A chain of theorems is presented for identifying the conditions when reduced order rank conditions can be applied for determining the Kalman controllability of Routh reducible mechanical systems where actuation takes place along the cyclic coordinates only, while some of the essential coordinates and their derivatives are observed. Four mechanical examples represent the advantages of using reduced rank conditions to check and/or to exclude linear controllability in such systems.
Might expert knowledge improve econometric real estate mass appraisal?
Authors: Doszyń Mariusz
Published: February 2022

The article examines whether expert knowledge improves the estimation results of real estate mass appraisal models. Six econometric models were compared: OLS, mixed, the Bayesian model, the Inequality Restricted Least Squares (IRLS) model, ridge and LASSO regression (with regularization). In three of the models (mixed, Bayesian, and IRLS) prior knowledge was applied. In mixed and Bayesian models priors took the form of intervals for model parameters. In IRLS, restrictions in the form of inequalities were applied. In the empirical example mass appraisal models were applied in the valuation of undeveloped land for residential purposes. Models with prior knowledge turned out to be the best with regard to the consistency of estimates with theory. Also, prediction accuracy was better for models with prior knowledge. In the case of low quality data expert knowledge might significantly improve estimation results of real estate mass appraisal econometric models.
Linking biochemical and individual-level effects of chlorpyrifos, triphenyl phosphate, and bisphenol A on sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) larvae
Authors: Bellas Juan , Rial Diego , Valdés Juliana , Vidal-Liñán Leticia , Bertucci Juan I. , Muniategui Soledad , León Víctor M. , Campillo Juan A.
Published: February 2022

The effects of three relevant organic pollutants: chlorpyrifos (CPF), a widely used insecticide, triphenyl phosphate (TPHP), employed as flame retardant and as plastic additive, and bisphenol A (BPA), used primarily as plastic additive, on sea urchin (Paracentrotus lividus) larvae, were investigated. Experiments consisted of exposing sea urchin fertilized eggs throughout their development to the 4-arm pluteus larval stage. The antioxidant enzymes glutathione reductase (GR) and catalase (CAT), the phase II detoxification enzyme glutathione S-transferase (GST), and the neurotransmitter catabolism enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were assessed in combination with responses at the individual level (larval growth). CPF was the most toxic compound with 10 and 50% effective concentrations (EC10 and EC50) values of 60 and 279 μg/l (0.17 and 0.80 μM), followed by TPHP with EC10 and EC50 values of 224 and 1213 μg/l (0.68 and 3.7 μM), and by BPA with EC10 and EC50 values of 885 and 1549 μg/l (3.9 and 6.8 μM). The toxicity of the three compounds was attributed to oxidative stress, to the modulation of the AChE response, and/or to the reduction of the detoxification efficacy. Increasing trends in CAT activity were observed for BPA and, to a lower extent, for CPF. GR activity showed a bell-shaped response in larvae exposed to CPF, whereas BPA caused an increasing trend in GR. GST also displayed a bell-shaped response to CPF exposure and a decreasing trend was observed for TPHP. An inhibition pattern in AChE activity was observed at increasing BPA concentrations. A potential role of the GST in the metabolism of CPF was proposed, but not for TPHP or BPA, and a significant increase of AChE activity associated with oxidative stress was observed in TPHP-exposed larvae. Among the biochemical responses, the GR activity was found to be a reliable biomarker of exposure for sea urchin early-life stages, providing a first sign of damage. These results show that the integration of responses at the biochemical level with fitness-related responses (e.g., growth) may help to improve knowledge about the impact of toxic substances on marine ecosystems.
Hydration and synergistic features of nanosilica-blended high alkaline white cement pastes composites
Authors: Abdelzaher M. A. , Shehata Nabila
Published: February 2022

Nanosilica (NS) behavior on hydration and synergistic characteristics of highly alkaline (HA) white cement pastes composites containing 5–25 mass % of NS (as substitution) was studied. The hydration kinetics behavior from 1 to 100 days was examined for all the blends e.g.: whiteness reflection (Ry), setting, compressive mechanical strength (CS), bulk density (BD), combined water content (Wn), total porosity (TP), and free lime (FL) have all been checked. The substitution of 5 wt.% NS has improved the compression mechanical strength and physico-chemical features of HA-white cement pastes composite, especially the compressive mechanical strength, free lime content and bulk density. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) techniques have been implemented to investigate the microstructure and features of NS pastes composites. NS (5%) improved the synergistic and hydration properties of the evaluated composite materials. NS has a substantial impact on the performance of HA-white cement composite pastes, reducing whiteness reflection (Ry), total porosity and setting times while enhancing mechanical strength, bulk density and gel-to-space ratio. SEM showed a thicker fiber microstructure and more calcium silicate hydrate products lead to a sharp decrease in porosity of all NS composites so it enhances the mechanical and physical properties, as well as the original morphology of calcium mono-carboaluminate hydrate. Highly recommended NS cement composite containing 95 percent + 5 percent NS has better performance and synergy than ordinary white cement. It showed a compact, high-density microstructure consisting of a large proportion of the microcrystalline fibrous group leading to reduced porosity of the blend.
Adrenal hypofunction associated with ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) supplementation: a case report
Authors: Fry Christopher H. , Fluck David , Han Thang S.
Published: February 2022

Objective

The use of herbal medicinal supplements has gained huge popularity world-wide, but scientific evidence of their effectiveness and safety remains scarce. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one such product, claimed to alleviate pain and anxiety by lowering circulating cortisol levels. Withanolides, which are the principal bioactive compounds of ashwagandha, are naturally occurring steroids and may suppress adrenal function. Here, we describe the effect of ashwagandha on adrenal function of a 41-year-old woman with a low body mass index and who suffered chronic pain and lethargy.

Methods

Adrenal function was assessed by the short Synacthen test (SST) during and after treatment with ashwagandha supplementation.

Results

Whilst taking daily ashwagandha supplement (21.4 mg of Withanolides), for ten weeks, a SST showed a minimal response to 250 μg of an intramuscular injection of Synacthen (tetracosactide): cortisol levels at T0min = 287 nmol/l, T30min = 289 nmol/l, and T60min = 328 nmol/l; from a morning baseline cortisol level of 480 nmol/l prior to taking the supplement. Ashwagandha was discontinued for two weeks, and a repeat SST was performed showing a completely normal adrenal response: cortisol level at T0min = 275 nmol/l, T30min = 623 nmol/l and T60min = 674 nmol/l.

Conclusion

Ten weeks of ashwagandha supplementation was associated with adrenal hypofunction, which was reversible after a two-week break. Individuals taking ashwagandha should be aware of this potentially detrimental effect. Future studies are suggested to assess whether long-term treatment with ashwagandha could lead to permanent suppression of adrenal function, and to elucidate the effects of ashwagandha compounds on adrenal steroidogenic pathway and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis.
Sodium and Health: Old Myths and a Controversy Based on Denial
Authors: Cappuccio Francesco P. , Campbell Norm R. C. , He Feng J. , Jacobson Michael F. , MacGregor Graham A. , Antman Elliott , Appel Lawrence J. , Arcand JoAnne , Blanco-Metzler Adriana , Cook Nancy R. , Guichon Juliet R. , L’Abbè Mary R. , Lackland Daniel T. , Lang Tim , McLean Rachael M. , Miglinas Marius , Mitchell Ian , Sacks Frank M. , Sever Peter S. , Stampfer Meir , Strazzullo Pasquale , Sunman Wayne , Webster Jacqui , Whelton Paul K. , Willett Walter
Published: February 2022

Purpose of Review

The scientific consensus on which global health organizations base public health policies is that high sodium intake increases blood pressure (BP) in a linear fashion contributing to cardiovascular disease (CVD). A moderate reduction in sodium intake to 2000 mg per day helps ensure that BP remains at a healthy level to reduce the burden of CVD.

Recent Findings

Yet, since as long ago as 1988, and more recently in eight articles published in the European Heart Journal in 2020 and 2021, some researchers have propagated a myth that reducing sodium does not consistently reduce CVD but rather that lower sodium might increase the risk of CVD. These claims are not well-founded and support some food and beverage industry’s vested interests in the use of excessive amounts of salt to preserve food, enhance taste, and increase thirst. Nevertheless, some researchers, often with funding from the food industry, continue to publish such claims without addressing the numerous objections. This article analyzes the eight articles as a case study, summarizes misleading claims, their objections, and it offers possible reasons for such claims.

Summary

Our study calls upon journal editors to ensure that unfounded claims about sodium intake be rigorously challenged by independent reviewers before publication; to avoid editorial writers who have been co-authors with the subject paper’s authors; to require statements of conflict of interest; and to ensure that their pages are used only by those who seek to advance knowledge by engaging in the scientific method and its collegial pursuit. The public interest in the prevention and treatment of disease requires no less.
Optimization on dual-channel supply chain model with pricing decision and trapezoidal fuzzy demand under a controllable lead time
Authors: Karthick B. , Uthayakumar R.
Published: February 2022

This paper considers a dual-channel supply chain with one vendor and multiple buyers in which (1) one channel is an offline channel where standard products are produced and shipped to the buyers and (2) the second channel is an online channel with the flow of customized products between the vendor and the online buyers/consumers. The first channel follows a vendor managed inventory with consignment stock (VMI-CS) agreement between the vendor and buyers. The supply lead time between the vendor and the buyer is considered controllable, at a cost. Two models are analyzed: (1) in the first model, the standard and customized product’s demand rate is assumed to be price and lead time-sensitive, and (2) in the second model, the demands are uncertain or ambiguous and are treated as a trapezoidal fuzzy number. It is reasonably complex to obtain analytical solutions. Hence, two algorithms are proposed to obtain the numerical solution with the objective of maximizing total profit. Numerical examples, sensitivity analysis, and managerial insights are given to test the model. Finally, conclusions and directions for future research are provided.
An integrated quality-function-deployment and stochastic-dominance-based decision-making approach for prioritizing product concept alternatives
Authors: Wang Zeng-Qiang , Chen Zhen-Song , Garg Harish , Pu Yun , Chin Kwai-Sang
Published: February 2022

For continuous growth and sustaining the competitiveness of a company, product developers spend most of their time making crucial decisions to address a great variety of unpredictable and uncontrollable information. Several mathematical approaches have already been adopted to aid the developers in selecting the best product concept for meeting customers’ requirements and exceeding their expectations. However, those methods do not cope with fully revealed developers’ preferences and do not take into account the random distribution of the target values of engineering characteristics (ECs). In this paper, the application of a quality function deployment (QFD)-based model and a stochastic dominance-based method is presented for product concept development. The first phase in the approach is to construct a product planning house of quality (PPHoQ), which is the core and the engine of the entire QFD model. This model depicts the relationship between the customers’ requirements (CRs) and the ECs for a product. The proposed approach addresses both the relationships between CRs and ECs, in addition to the correlations among the ECs. In this study, developers are invited to express their preferences using different types of linguistic terms dependent on their diverse backgrounds and understanding levels of the product. Based on the outcomes of the PPHoQ process, a variety of alternative concepts can be created. The alternatives are then prioritized and ranked in the second phase. The proposed approach facilitates the random distribution with stochastic variables rather than fuzzy methods to obtain more realistic product concept alternatives. Several examples and comparative results further illustrate that unbalanced linguistic terms and stochastic dominance efficiently endow the product concept selection model with uncertain information and the random distribution in a realistic style.
Stable vector bundles on the families of curves
Authors: Bogomolov Fedor A. , Lukzen Elena
Published: February 2022

We offer a new approach to proving the Chen–Donaldson–Sun theorem which we demonstrate with a series of examples. We discuss the existence of a construction of a special metric on stable vector bundles over the surfaces formed by a family of curves and its relation to the one-dimensional cycles in the moduli space of stable bundles on curves.