bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CollembolAI, a macrophotography and computer vision workflow to digitize and characterize samples of soil invertebrate communities preserved in fluid
Authors: Sys Stanislav , Weißbach Stephan , Jakob Lea , Gerber Susanne , Schneider Clément
Published: October 2022

Soils are inhabited by communities of tiny invertebrates that participate in the essential functions of soils. Characterizing those communities in terms of species diversity and species abundance is part of investigating soil functions and response to perturbation. Dozens to hundreds of specimens can be extracted from a sample that need to be sorted, counted and identified. It involves an enormous amount of time, straining the workflow of soil zoologists. Deep learning‐based computer vision approaches have become increasingly popular to monitor biodiversity, as they can be applied to detect, count and classify organisms.

In this work, we present CollembolAI, an open‐source prototype for a computer vision workflow. It includes a hardware system for acquiring high‐resolution pictures of soil species samples in fluid and a deep learning‐based application (Faster R‐CNN with Slicing Aided Hyper Inference) to train and evaluate models for the detection and classification of animals on those pictures. We evaluated the workflow using a mix of specimens belonging to 12 species of springtail and mite, picked from our taxonomic collection. Specimens were photographed multiple times under various angle of views. The model was trained using 5671 views on specimens on 30 images and tested on 442 views from new specimens on six images.

CollembolAI is affordable, simple to build and allows the rapid digitization of mesofauna samples. Our deep learning model achieved a Precision of 0.940, Recall of 0.918 and a mAP@0.5 (Pascal VOC) of 0.868. The model showed a lower Recall for one species, but was performant on all others.

Our prototype offers an operational workflow for the creation of soil fauna picture datasets needed to develop efficient deep learning‐based classifiers. The applications are numerous, for example, collection digitization, soil biodiversity analysis and monitoring, or automatic assessment of mesofauna‐based bioindicators. Computer vision is a rapidly emerging tool to handle efficiently the complexity of biodiversity and is already successfully used for plants and vertebrates recognition of pictures. It is on the way to become a major asset for dealing with invertebrate diversity. The code and setup instructions are available on Github.
The cytokine profiles in follicular fluid and reproductive outcomes in women with endometriosis
Authors: Han Mu‐Tian , Cheng Wei , Zhu Rui , Wu Hui‐Hua , Ding Jie , Zhao Nan‐Nan , Li Hong , Wang Fu‐Xin
Published: October 2022

Problem

Endometriosis patients undergoing in vitro fertilization‐embryo transfer (IVF‐ET) treatment suffer from poor oocyte quality, a reduced likelihood of the fertilization rate, and low embryo quality. The dysregulation of immune cells and cytokine profiles in the follicular fluid (FF) may play an important role in the competence of the oocyte and the development of the embryo, but the mechanism remains largely unknown.

Method of Study

A total of 40 proved advanced staged endometriosis patients were enrolled in this study. The pregnancy results were followed until all the embryos collected by the first oocyte retrieval cycle were used up. The immune cells subtypes in FF and serum collected on the day of oocyte retrieval were detected by flow cytometry and 27 cytokines were determined using the Bio‐Plex Pro Human Cytokine 27‐Plex Immunoassay. The specific effect of cytokine on the gene expression of human granulosa cells was determined by RT‐qPCR.

Results

The fertilization rate and the cumulative live birth rate were significantly lower in the endometriosis group. The ratio of CD4+/CD8+T cells in FF was significantly lower, while the level of IP‐10, RANTES and G‐CSF were statistically higher in the endometriosis group. The level of IP‐10 correlated with the IVF outcome. Moreover, treated by IP‐10, the mRNA level of FSHR and CYP19A1 the human granulosa cells were downregulated in vitro.

Conclusion

These results suggest that alterations of the lymphocyte subsets and cytokines in women with advanced endometriosis may have an impact on the oocyte development and resulting in poorer IVF outcomes.
Does using a laser improve outcomes of conventional circumcision in adult and children populations? Results from a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Scarcella Simone , Law Yu Xi Terence , Bravi Carlo Andrea , Piazza Pietro , Heldwein Flavio L. , Ronchi Piero , Lacetera Vito , Beatrici Valerio , Gauhar Vineet , Castellani Daniele
Published: October 2022

Background

Male circumcision is a well‐known old surgery, and several recently developed techniques have been scaled up, including the introduction of laser technology, as alternative approaches to overcome morbidity of conventional surgery scalpel/suture method

Objectives

We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies comparing laser circumcision versus conventional circumcision technique in terms of perioperative outcomes and efficacy (complications, unacceptable appearance, reoperation rate) both in children and adults.

Materials and methods

This review was performed following the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses framework. Continuous variables were analyzed using the inverse variance of the mean difference with a random effect, 95% confidence interval (CI), and p‐value. The incidence of complications, unacceptable appearance, and reoperation rate were pooled using the Cochran‐Mantel‐Haenszel Method with the random effect model and reported as odds ratio (OR), 95% CI, and p‐value. Significance was set at p‐value ≤0.05 and 95%CI.

Results

Seven studies were included. In comparison to the conventional circumcision, laser circumcision shoved lower visual analogue score at 24‐h, and 7 days after surgery, a lower rate of overall complication rate (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.24–0.47, p < 0.001), scarring (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.02, 0.41, p = 0.002), and unacceptable appearance (OR 0.09, 95% CI 0.05, 0.15, p < 0.001). We found no statistically significant difference in surgical time, and incidence of bleeding, infection, wound dehiscence, and reoperation rate.

Discussion and conclusion

Our review infers that laser‐assisted circumcision is certainly a safe and strong contender as the procedure of choice in both children and adult populations.
Examining potential mechanisms of testicular fibrosis in Klinefelter Syndrome: A review of current understanding
Authors: Bradshaw Aaron W. , Deebel Nicholas A. , Xu Mark C. , Kogan Stanley , Atala Anthony , Sadri‐Ardekani Hooman
Published: October 2022

Background

Men with Klinefelter Syndrome develop some degree of seminiferous tubule degeneration, hyalinization, and fibrosis by adulthood. However, the pathophysiology surrounding testicular fibrosis in Klinefelter Syndrome patients remains incompletely understood.

Objectives

To perform a systematic review of literature studying the mechanisms of fibrosis initiation or propagation in Klinefelter Syndrome testes.

Materials/methods

PubMed was searched systematically for articles specific to Klinefelter Syndrome and the process of fibrosis. Articles that did not contain original data or specifically addressed the target material were excluded. Additional references were extracted when pertinent from the reference lists of included studies.

Results

Primary search yielded 139 articles for abstract review, which was narrowed to 16 for full‐text review. Following full‐text review, eight contained original data and met topic criteria, with one paper added from reference review for a total of nine papers.

Discussion

The date range for included papers was 1992–2022. The proposed mechanisms of fibrosis mainly were centered around the impact of altered Sertoli cells on germ cells, the hormonal impact on Leydig cells, the inflammation mediated by mast cells, or the fibrous extracellular matrix deposition by peritubular myoid cells. Additionally, discussions of the role of the altered microvasculature and the specific proteins involved in the blood‐testis barrier or the seminiferous tubule architecture are reviewed. Recent papers have incorporated advanced sequencing and offer future directions for targeted gene expression analysis. Still, much of the published data consists solely of immunohistological assessment by age range, creating difficulties in extrapolating causality.

Conclusion

The specific initiating factors of fibrosis of the seminiferous tubules and the propagation mechanisms unique to Klinefelter Syndrome remain incompletely understood with a relative paucity of data. Nonetheless, academic interest is increasing in this field as it may further elucidate the pathophysiology behind Klinefelter syndrome.
Putting the ‘i’ in icon: An autophotographic study of iconicity
Authors: Pötschulat Maike
Published: October 2022

This article addresses the potential of autophotography to generate new insights into the meanings of iconic sites. It draws on photographic and interview data collected as part of a broader study exploring the everyday urban sense‐making of university students in Liverpool, UK. Iconic sites featured prominently in participants' images of meaningful city spaces as well as the spoken accounts in the photo‐elicitation interviews. Visual depictions of urban iconicity are central to place marketing strategies attempting to attract visitors and investment. Yet on a local level, these icons and images have been criticised for alienating local populations and foregrounding lifestyles and cultures that are inaccessible to many urban residents. While we need to study icons critically, this article argues that we should not think of them reductively. The data generated here challenges understandings of icons as predominantly representational and establishes iconic sites as lived spaces that form part of everyday practices. Iconic structures are constitutive of ‘geographies of memory’ that are central to the development of a sense of place for university students. The autophotography method revealed that icons become symbols of elective belonging via which students highlight their connection to their university city beyond the more generic student infrastructure.
Impact of returnee executives and managerial discretion on excess perquisite consumption
Authors: Ren Ge , Zeng Ping , Zhong Xi
Published: October 2022

This study examines the impact of returnee executives on top management teams' (TMTs') unethical management behavior (e.g., excess perquisite consumption). Synthesizing insights from upper echelons theory and the psychological entitlement literature, this study proposes that returnee executives cause TMTs to generate a high degree of psychological entitlement, which subsequently leads to a high degree of excess perquisite consumption in their firms. In addition, this study proposes that returnee chief executive officers, product diversification, and regional institutional development moderate the aforementioned relationships by influencing managerial discretion. This study provides empirical evidence for the above view using a dataset that was constructed based on 1960 listed Chinese manufacturing companies from 2010 to 2019. From a psychological entitlement perspective, this study confirms, for the first time, that the introduction of returnee executives may have unintended negative consequences, for example, in promoting the excess perquisite consumption activities of TMTs.
circTOP2A functions as a ceRNA to promote glioma progression by upregulating RPN2
Authors: Sun Jikui , Wang Jinhuan , Li Meng , Li Shengjie , Li Hanyun , Lu Yan , Li Feng , Xin Tao , Jin Feng
Published: October 2022

Competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)‐mediated signaling pathway dysregulation provides great insight into comprehensively understanding the molecular mechanism and combined targeted therapy for glioblastoma. circRNA is characterized by high stability, tissue/developmental stage‐specific expression and abundance in brain and plays significant roles in the initiation and progression of cancer. Our previous published data have demonstrated that RPN2 was significantly upregulated in glioma and promoted tumor progression via the activation of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway. Furthermore, we proved that miR‐422a regulated the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway by directly targeting RPN2. In this study, based on the glioblastoma microarray profiles, we identified the upstream circTOP2A, which completely bound to miR‐422a and was co‐expressed with the RPN2. circTOP2A was significantly overexpressed in glioma and conferred a poor prognosis. circTOP2A could regulate RPN2 expression by sponging miR‐422a, verified by western blot, dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay, and RNA pull‐down assay. Functional assays including CCK8, transwell and FITC‐annexin V were performed to explore the RPN2‐mediated role of the circTOP2A effect on the glioma malignant phenotype. Additionally, TOP/FOP and immunofluorescence analysis were used to confirm that sh‐circTOP2A could suppress the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway partly through RPN2. Finally, a tumor xenograft model was applied to validate the biological function of circTOP2A in vivo. Taken together, our findings reveal the critical role of circTOP2A in promoting glioma proliferation and invasion via a ceRNA mechanism and provide an exploitable biomarker and therapeutic target for glioma patients.
A monolateral pigmented lesion of the nipple
Authors: Volontè Martina , Barruscotti Stefania , Feltri Monica , Brazzelli Valeria , Tomasini Carlo Francesco , Vassallo Camilla
Published: October 2022

Pigmented mammary Paget's disease is a very rare variant of mammary Paget's disease linked to an underlying carcinoma in almost all cases. We present the case of a 62-year-old female patient who came to our attention for the evaluation of a monolateral asymptomatic pigmented lesion of the right nipple, which turned out to be a pigmented mammary Paget's disease unassociated to an underlying malignancy – an extremely rare entity only anecdotally reported in literature. The two main peculiarities of our patient's lesion, the importance of immunohistochemistry in the differential diagnosis and the theories on its pathogenesis are discussed. Further studies are necessary to establish the best treatment options.

Click here for the corresponding questions to this CME article.
Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 plus carcinoembryonic antigen for prognosis in colorectal cancer: An observational study
Authors: Lee Jong O. , Kim Minjung , Lee Jeong‐Hwan , Kim Youngmin , Lim Han‐Ki , Kwon Yoon‐Hye , Shin Rumi , Park Ji W. , Ryoo Seung‐Bum , Park Kyu J. , Jeong Seung‐Yong
Published: October 2022

Aim

Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is a primary prognostic marker and can detect colorectal cancer (CRC) recurrence; however, it has low sensitivity. Carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA 19‐9) can be used as a supplemental tumour marker along with CEA. The purpose of this study was to determine whether preoperative CA 19‐9 added to CEA helped predict long‐term prognosis and whether follow‐up CA 19‐9 added to CEA had additional benefits in diagnosing the recurrence of CRC.

Method

We retrospectively assessed patients who underwent surgery for primary CRC between January 2004 and December 2015 at Seoul National University Hospital. Data on demographics, preoperative and follow‐up CEA and CA 19‐9 levels, recurrence and survival were obtained and analysed with respect to tumour marker levels to ascertain their prognostic and diagnostic values.

Results

A total of 4972 and 1530 patients were included to analyse preoperative and follow‐up tumour marker levels, respectively. The 5‐year relapse‐free survival rates were 72.2% ± 0.8%, 52.5% ± 2.2%, 55.5% ± 3.2% and 32.1% ± 2.3% in the normal CEA and CA 19‐9, high CEA, high CA 19‐9, and high CEA and high CA 19‐9 groups, respectively (all P < 0.001). Patients whose elevated CEA or CA 19‐9 levels reduced to normal levels had better survival outcomes than those with postoperatively elevated levels. Elevated follow‐up CA 19‐9 and CEA levels were related to higher incidences of distant metastasis (CA 19‐9, 14.0% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.004; CEA, 12.6% vs. 30.1%, P < 0.001) but not to local recurrence. Combined follow‐up CEA and CA 19‐9 increased the sensitivity for recurrence to 31.4%, with a 5% difference from the sensitivity of CEA alone. In the subgroup with high preoperative CA 19‐9 levels, sensitivity increased by 18.2% overall.

Conclusion

CA 19‐9 is a valuable prognostic and diagnostic marker for CRC when used adjunctively with CEA and can be a supplementary marker with CEA to improve sensitivity, especially with elevated preoperative CA 19‐9.
Coronary artery calcium score and its association with stroke: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kwok Chun Shing , Bennett Sadie , Lip Gregory Y. H.
Published: October 2022

Background

The relationship between coronary artery calcium (CAC) score and incident stroke is controversial.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the literature evaluating CAC score and incident stroke. A search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was performed, and data were extracted from relevant studies. Statistical pooling with random‐effects meta‐analysis was undertaken to evaluate the risk of incident stroke with any CAC vs. no CAC, 1–100 CAC vs. no CAC, and >100 CAC vs. no CAC.

Results

Data from nine different cohort studies from the United States and Europe with a total of 61,096 patients were included in this review. The mean age of patients in the studies ranged from 44 to 69 years, and follow‐up duration ranged from a median of 5.5 years to 12.3 years. The crude stroke event varied from 1.6% to 9.5%. Meta‐analysis of risk of incident stroke with any vs. no CAC (RR 1.70 95% CI 0.87–3.31, I2 = 95%) and for CAC 1–100 vs. no CAC (RR 1.54 95% CI 0.75–3.17, I2 = 93%) was not statistically significant. For CAC >100, the risk of incident stroke was significantly higher compared with no CAC (RR 2.61 95% CI 1.51–4.52, I2 = 89%). When one study which included only young adults was excluded, there was significant increase in risk of incident stroke with all categories of CAC.

Conclusions

There is an association between high CAC score and incident stroke, but more studies are needed to determine how patients with incidental CAC should be managed from the perspective of stroke prevention.
European Soil Data Centre 2.0: Soil data and knowledge in support of the EU policies
Authors: Panagos Panos , Van Liedekerke Marc , Borrelli Pasquale , Köninger Julia , Ballabio Cristiano , Orgiazzi Alberto , Lugato Emanuele , Liakos Leonidas , Hervas Javier , Jones Arwyn , Montanarella Luca
Published: October 2022

The European Soil Data Centre (ESDAC), hosted by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), is the focal point for soil data, support to policy making and awareness raising for the European Union (EU). Established in 2006 to provide harmonised soil‐related information for the EU Member States, and ESDAC currently hosts 88 datasets, 6000 maps, six atlases, 500 scientific publications, and a copious amount of soil‐related material. Through its data repository publishing activity, ESDAC has licensed over 50,000 datasets during the past 15 years; 8500 of them in 2021 alone. It has published 140 monthly newsletters and is followed by more than 12,000 subscribed users, which receive regular updates. This article addresses the use, usability, and usefulness of ESDAC. About 75% of the ESDAC users come from academia and the research community while the remaining 25% includes public administration (at EU, national, regional, and local level) and the private sector. In addition, we provide some insights of the datasets evaluation and how they have been developed. The general ESDAC vision is to provide evidence underlying EU soil‐relevant policies and to facilitate the access to relevant data for research. ESDAC is an integral part of the recently established European Union Soil Observatory (EUSO), with a target to have an even stronger role in supporting EU and regional policies.

Highlights

ESDAC is a central place from where to find European wide relevant soil data.

ESDAC is an integral part of the EU Soil Observatory in creating data and knowledge for policy support.

The ESDAC website shows a high volume of traffic; 10,000 of user licenses are granted per year.

ESDAC key success: open access data policy, documentation, operational helpdesk and regular updates.
Land use and land cover changes in coastal and inland wetlands cause soil carbon and nitrogen loss
Authors: Tan Lishan , Ge Zhenming , Ji Yuhuang , Lai Derrick Y. F. , Temmerman Stijn , Li Shihua , Li Xiuzhen , Tang Jianwu
Published: October 2022

Aim

Natural wetlands are widely considered important for mitigation of climate change, but they have been impacted by land use and land cover change (LULCC), often resulting in ecosystem degradation and significant changes in soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics. However, the impact of various LULCC types on wetland soil C and N dynamics remains unclear.

Location

Global.

Time period

1982–2021.

Major taxa studied

Wetland.

Methods

We present a global meta‐analysis using a database of 487 sites compiled from the literature, demonstrating the response of soil C and N concentrations and stocks in coastal wetlands, riparian wetlands and peatlands to various types of LULCCs, including agricultural lands, drained wetlands, aquaculture ponds, pastures and constructed wetlands.

Results

The conversion of coastal wetlands, riparian wetlands and peatlands to most LULCC types decreased the mean soil C and N concentrations and stocks by 17.8 ± 10.3, 25.3 ± 13.4 and 23.2 ± 6.3%, respectively. The loss of wetland soil C owing to LULCC is estimated to cause a potential CO2 emission of 1.8–22.8 Mg CO2 equivalent emission/ha/year, except for conversion to constructed wetlands. The soil C and N contents were more sensitive to LULCCs, relative to the stocks. We also found that the patterns of soil C and N variations were closely related to the conversion time since completion of LULCC. After LULCC, the response of soil C and N variables was sensitive to changes in plant biomass, soil water conditions, bulk density, pH and NH4+‐N concentration, with the major controlling factors varying with the conversion age.

Main conclusions

Our results highlight the important role of LULCC in triggering soil C and N loss in natural wetlands, which enhances the greenhouse effect. As such, our study calls for sustainable land management strategies aiming at wetland conservation as a powerful tool to mitigate climate warming.
Fossils explained 82: Belemnites: Anatomy, ecology, applications
Authors: Wilkin Jack Thomas Rhodes
Published: October 2022

Belemnites are extinct cephalopods that evolved in the early Late Triassic (~240 Ma) and became extinct at the Cretaceous/Palaeogene boundary (66 Ma), at the same time as the extinction of the dinosaurs. Their bullet‐shaped internal skeleton, called a rostrum, are commonly found alongside the much more famous coiled ammonites. Whereas ammonites have gone on to become a universal symbol of palaeontology, belemnites are often overlooked by fossil hunters. The intention of this short introduction to belemnites is to furnish a greater appreciation for these fascinating creatures. Not only were they an incredibly important component of Mesozoic marine ecosystems and their exceptionally preserved fossils can tell us much about coleoid diversity throughout geological time, it is their applications that set belemnites apart from other macrofossils. Belemnite geochemistry can provide high‐resolution data regarding past ocean chemistry and temperatures. Such information is vital in the reconstruction of Mesozoic climate systems.
Monochromatic Wave of Fluid Pressure in a Porous Rock
Authors: Li Guangquan , Miao Yifang , Mei Yangming
Published: October 2022

From the perspective of rock mechanics, transmission of fluid pressure that drives groundwater flow is not instantaneous; instead it is a slow compressional (P) wave in porous rocks saturated with a fluid. In this paper, the approach of monochromatic wave is used to analyze the slow P‐wave. Permeability is derived as a function of the frequency of the wave. The permeability appears to be a complex number which asymptotes to Darcy permeability at the low frequency end but tends to vanish at the high frequency end. With Biot theory, the permeability predicts phase velocity and the quality factor of the monochromatic wave. Using Berea sandstone as an illustrative example, the complex‐number permeability can yield a lower phase velocity (within frequency of 105–108 Hz) and a larger attenuation (for frequency above 106 Hz) than Darcy permeability does. This study extends the recent research of the low‐frequency waves of fluid pressure to the regime of very high frequency.
Myoid gonadal stromal tumours are characterised by recurrent chromosome‐level copy number gains: molecular assessment of a multi‐institutional series
Authors: Collins Katrina , Sholl Lynette M. , Siegmund Stephanie , Dickson Brendan C. , Colecchia Maurizio , Michalová Květoslava , Hwang Michael , Ulbright Thomas M. , Kao Chia‐Sui , van Leenders Geert J.L.H. , Mehta Vikas , Trpkov Kiril , Yilmaz Asli , Cimadamore Alessia , Matoso Andres , Epstein Jonathan I. , Maclean Fiona , Comperat Eva , Anderson William J. , Fletcher Christopher D.M. , Acosta Andrés M.
Published: October 2022

Myoid gonadal stromal tumours (MGST) represent a rare type of testicular sex cord‐stromal tumour that has recently been recognised as a distinct entity by the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of genitourinary tumours. MGSTs affect adult men and have been reported to behave in an indolent fashion. Histologically, MGSTs are pure spindle cell neoplasms that coexpress SMA and S100 protein. Given that the molecular features of these neoplasms remain largely undescribed, we evaluated a multi‐institutional series of MGSTs using DNA and RNA sequencing. This study included 12 tumours from 12 patients aged 28 to 57 years. Tumour sizes ranged from 0.6 to 4.3 cm. Aggressive histologic features, such as vascular invasion, necrosis, invasive growth, and atypical mitoses were invariably absent. Mitotic activity was low, with a median of less than 1 mitosis per 10 high power fields (HPF; maximum: 3 mitoses per 10 HPF). Molecular analyses did not identify recurrent mutations or gene fusions. All cases with interpretable copy number variant data (9/10 cases sequenced successfully) demonstrated a consistent pattern of chromosome arm‐level and whole‐chromosome‐level copy number gains indicative of ploidy shifts, with recurrent gains involving chromosomes 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14q, 15q, 17, 18q, 20, and 21q. Similar findings have also been recognised in pure spindle cell and spindle‐cell predominant sex cord‐stromal tumours without S100 protein expression. MGSTs are characterised by ploidy shifts and may be part of a larger spectrum of spindle cell‐predominant sex cord‐stromal tumours, including cases without S100 protein expression.
Revenue sharing or not? Coordination of the buy‐online‐and‐pickup‐in‐store supply chain
Authors: Peng Yang , Lu Junjie , Cheng Tai Chiu Edwin , Ji Min
Published: October 2022

While there is much research on coordinating the dual‐channel supply chain using the revenue‐sharing contract, it is unclear if there is a better mechanism design in the buy‐online‐and‐pickup‐in‐store (BOPS) mode. In this channel integration environment, the customer service provided by the bricks‐and‐mortar store is critical to the chain's success. Based on a stackable game model, we analyze the contract methods for the cases of revenue sharing and no revenue sharing, where the latter is classified into two types: All the credit goes to the offline or online channel. Focusing on improving consumer service and supply chain performance in the BOPS mode, we observe that revenue sharing is not necessarily the best contract type, while the non‐revenue‐sharing contract of a lump‐sum subsidy plus quantity discount can coordinate the supply chain. We also analyze the impacts of some endogenous parameters and derive the conditions for the equilibrium outcomes. We find that revenue sharing cannot effectively stimulate the offline channel to improve its service effort as the offline channel is more concerned about service cost sharing than revenue sharing. The results are similar to those of revenue allocation to the online or offline channel in the BOPS mode, but the conditions are slightly different. Conducting numerical studies to gain insights from the analytical findings, we find that the subsidy contract is better than the revenue‐sharing approach under various market conditions.
A dual realist review: Compression for leg swelling at the end of life has potential quality of life benefit
Authors: O'Brien Joanna , Dingle Maria
Published: October 2022

Aims

To examine the evidence for the use of compression in the general population and determine how far it can be used to inform treatment at the end of life.

Design

In advanced illness, some patients suffer lower limb swelling and its resulting problems. In the general population, compression is used to treat lower limb swelling, but little is known about its use at the end of life. This review is designed to deeply explore the available evidence and identify what is known and areas for further research.

Data Sources

Five databases were searched; CINAHL, MEDLINE, Embase, AMED and Cochrane, in November 2021. Reference lists for included studies were hand‐searched. A web search was carried out.

Review Methods

Two parallel realist reviews were performed. The first reviewed the use of compression in the general population. The second explored lower limb swelling at the end of life. Findings were screened using inclusion and exclusion criteria, quality assessed and qualitative and quantitative data extracted.

Results

The initial searches returned 1179 articles in review one and 839 articles in review two. Following the screening, 10 articles remained in each review for analysis. A programme theory was drawn for each review. The theories had sufficient similarities to allow evidence from the general population to be used to make recommendations for those at the end of life.

Impact

People with advanced illness and leg swelling suffer physically and psychologically. Compression delivers a reduction in swelling and quality of life benefit in the general population. This study found people with advanced illness may experience the same benefits. A cautious approach should be taken and stockings or adjustable Velcro compression devices (AVCDs) are likely to be the best starter interventions. Existing guidelines should also be consulted. Further research to develop the right intervention in this group is needed.
Peripheral levels of monocytic myeloid‐derived suppressive cells before and after first induction predict relapse and survivals in AML patients
Authors: Peterlin Pierre , Debord Camille , Eveillard Marion , Garnier Alice , Le Bourgeois Amandine , Guillaume Thierry , Jullien Maxime , Béné Marie C. , Chevallier Patrice
Published: October 2022

Myeloid Derived Suppressive Cells (MDSC) are capable to suppress innate and adaptive immune responses, thus favouring solid cancer progression. However, little is known about the role of MDSC in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). In this monocentric prospective study, 73 adult AML patients, eligible for first‐line intensive chemotherapy, were included with the aim to study the influence on long‐term outcomes of peripheral blood (PB) levels of monocytic (M) MDSC (M‐MDSC) assessed by flow cytometry. A percentage of peripheral M‐MDSC higher than 0.55% of leukocytes at diagnosis and a decrease of M‐MDSC% after induction came out both as independent negative prognostic factors for leukaemia‐free and overall survival.
Recent progression and future perspectives in cotton genomic breeding
Authors: Yang Zhaoen , Gao Chenxu , Zhang Yihao , Yan Qingdi , Hu Wei , Yang Lan , Wang Zhi , Li Fuguang
Published: October 2022

Upland cotton is an important global cash crop for its long seed fibers and high edible oil and protein content. Progress in cotton genomics promotes the advancement of cotton genetics, evolutionary studies, functional genetics, and breeding, and has ushered cotton research and breeding into a new era. Here, we summarize high‐impact genomics studies for cotton from the last 10 years. The diploid Gossypium arboreum and allotetraploid Gossypium hirsutum are the main focus of most genetic and genomic studies. We next review recent progress in cotton molecular biology and genetics, which builds on cotton genome sequencing efforts, population studies, and functional genomics, to provide insights into the mechanisms shaping abiotic and biotic stress tolerance, plant architecture, seed oil content, and fiber development. We also suggest the application of novel technologies and strategies to facilitate genome‐based crop breeding. Explosive growth in the amount of novel genomic data, identified genes, gene modules, and pathways is now enabling researchers to utilize multidisciplinary genomics‐enabled breeding strategies to cultivate “super cotton”, synergistically improving multiple traits. These strategies must rise to meet urgent demands for a sustainable cotton industry.
A model to understand antecedents of nursing attitudes and perceptions influencing outcomes of patients with SUD
Authors: Vottero Beth , Schuler Monika , Kratovil Amanda
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a persistent and long‐standing public health issue in the United States. While SUD is medically considered a chronic illness, it is also one that is viewed as self‐inflicted, thereby resulting in judgmental attitudes and stigmatization from care providers, specifically from nurses.

Design

In 2020, the authors completed an analytical cross‐sectional study that included open‐ended questions to examine nurses' knowledge and attitudes toward caring for patients with SUD across practice settings.

Methods

A conceptual model was constructed by examining original study data and published literature on SUD, re‐analyzing themes, determining constructs and variables, then coming to a consensus on critical aspects of the model.

Conclusion

The resulting conceptual model highlights antecedents of nursing behaviors that directly affect patient care outcomes, providing a roadmap to improving patient outcomes.

Clinical relevance

Understanding antecedents that affect nurses' attitudes and perceptions of patients with SUD highlights changes that can influence patient outcomes.
Interdependence of sequential cytotoxic T lymphocyte and natural killer cell cytotoxicity against melanoma cells
Authors: Friedmann Kim S. , Kaschek Lea , Knörck Arne , Cappello Sabrina , Lünsmann Niklas , Küchler Nadja , Hoxha Cora , Schäfer Gertrud , Iden Sandra , Bogeski Ivan , Kummerow Carsten , Schwarz Eva C. , Hoth Markus
Published: October 2022

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and natural killer (NK) cells recognize and eliminate cancer cells. However, immune evasion, downregulation of immune function by the tumour microenvironment and resistance of cancer cells are major problems. Although CTL and NK cells are both important to eliminate cancer, most studies address them individually. We quantified sequential primary human CTL and NK cell cytotoxicity against the melanoma cell line SK‐Mel‐5. At high effector‐to‐target ratios, NK cells or melan‐A (MART‐1)‐specific CTL eliminated all SK‐Mel‐5 cells within 24 h, indicating that SK‐Mel‐5 cells are not resistant initially. However, at lower effector‐to‐target ratios, which resemble numbers of the immune contexture in human cancer, a substantial number of SK‐Mel‐5 cells survived. Pre‐exposure to CTL induced resistance in surviving SK‐Mel‐5 cells to subsequent CTL or NK cell cytotoxicity, and pre‐exposure to NK cells induced resistance in surviving SK‐Mel‐5 cells to NK cells. Higher human leucocyte antigen class I expression or interleukin‐6 levels were correlated with resistance to NK cells, whereas reduction in MART‐1 antigen expression was correlated with reduced CTL cytotoxicity. The CTL cytotoxicity was rescued beyond control levels by exogenous MART‐1 antigen. In contrast to the other three combinations, CTL cytotoxicity against SK‐Mel‐5 cells was enhanced following NK cell pre‐exposure. Our assay allows quantification of sequential CTL and NK cell cytotoxicity and might guide strategies for efficient CTL–NK cell anti‐melanoma therapies.

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Key points

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) and natural killer (NK) cells eliminate cancer cells. Both CTL and NK cells attack the same targets, but most studies address them individually.

In a sequential cytotoxicity model, the interdependence of antigen‐specific CTL and NK cell cytotoxicity against melanoma is quantified.

High numbers of antigen‐specific CTL and NK cells eliminate all melanoma cells. However, lower numbers induce resistance if secondary CTL or NK cell exposure follows initial CTL exposure or if secondary NK cell exposure follows initial NK cell exposure. On the contrary, if secondary CTL exposure follows initial NK cell exposure, cytotoxicity is enhanced.

Alterations in human leucocyte antigen class I expression and interleukin‐6 levels are correlated with resistance to NK cells, whereas a reduction in antigen expression is correlated with reduced CTL cytotoxicity; CTL cytotoxicity is rescued beyond control levels by exogenous antigen.

This assay and the results on interdependencies will help us to understand and optimize immune therapies against cancer.
Development of Novel Low-Cost Sustainable Abrasive Flow Finishing Media From Ground Tire Rubber and Its Performance Evaluation
Authors: Ansari Irfan Ahmad , Kar Kamal K. , Ramkumar J.
Published: October 2022

The present experimental endeavor aims to develop and study the characteristics of a novel ground tire rubber media (GTRM) through rheological, thermal, and mechanical characterizations. Thermogravimetric analysis reveals the presence of natural and styrene butadiene rubber in ground tire rubber (GTR) and confirms the thermal stability of developed GTRM under the working temperature of the abrasive flow finishing (AFF) process. Investigation reveals that incorporating GTR into media improves AFF performance up to 50 phr, after which it degrades due to poor self-deforming characteristics and abrasive holding capacity at higher GTR fractions. It has also been observed that the percentage of oil and the size of the GTR particles are significant media parameters that govern the GTRM property and thus influence its performance. GTRM with bigger GTR produces deep abrasive cut marks and nonuniform shearing. A comprehensive study reveals that GTRM containing 50 phr GTR (80 mesh), 10% oil, and 60% SiC (220 mesh) results in the highest percentage improvement in surface roughness (% ΔRa) of 44% on flat geometry. The same media, but with coarser SiC (80 mesh), was also used to polish a micro-grooved workpiece. Results show 64% improvement in Ra for the top surface and 58% for the bottom, respectively. Both surfaces still contain a few pits and unevenness; however, the surfaces and top edge of the groove became smooth after AFF.
Rate of Penetration Prediction Using Quantile Regression Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Ambrus Adrian , Alyaev Sergey , Jahani Nazanin , Pacis Felix James , Wiktorski Tomasz
Published: October 2022

As the petroleum industry makes strides towards meeting the energy efficiency and low emissions goals required to tackle ongoing climate challenges, there is an increasing need for optimizing drilling operations. A central aspect of drilling optimization lies in the ability to select the drilling parameters that improve the rate of penetration (ROP) for the rock formations being drilled. Optimization algorithms require an efficient predictive model of the ROP as a function of key drilling parameters and formation properties. Over the past decades, various mathematical ROP models have been developed. The use of machine learning and artificial intelligence for ROP modeling has become quite common, as indicated by the quickly expanding literature on this topic in recent years. Most of these modeling efforts have focused on providing single-point forecasts of ROP without any indication of the uncertainty surrounding the predictions. However, different factors, such as bit wear or foundering may severely limit the achievable ROP. Without including such uncertainty in the predictions, the reliability of ROP models for optimization and decision-making can be difficult to evaluate.

To address this issue, we present the application of quantile regression deep neural networks (QRDNN) to the ROP prediction problem. In our work, quantile regression models perform probabilistic forecasts of ROP for a given range of drilling parameters and formation properties available from logging while drilling measurements or offset well logs. The model outputs consist of estimated values for different quantiles, such as the P10, P50, and P90 estimates, and associated confidence intervals. Several such models with different input features and neural network architectures, including fully connected, convolutional, and dropout layers, are trained and validated on publicly available field data spanning 12 hole sections from 7 wells drilled in the Volve field in the North Sea. The results indicate that the QRDNN achieves good prediction accuracy within the projected confidence intervals. These results highlight the advantages of combining deep learning with quantile regression compared to using machine learning models which only generate single-point predictions for the ROP.
Validation of Measurement Techniques Used for Slamming
Authors: Økland Ole David , Lian Gunnar , Vestbøstad Tone
Published: October 2022

Model test campaigns conducted recent years indicate large wave impact loads on vertical surfaces above the waterline for various types of moored floating structures. The basis for the estimate of characteristic loads is typically slamming pressure measured on a grid of slamming panels.

In order to validate the measurements of slamming pressure, drop tests for a slamming section used in slamming tests (see [1] and [2]) have been conducted. The section was dropped in a small water basin at different configurations to resemble impacts from waves with varying front steepness and velocity of wave front. In Lian et al [3], most of the results from the drop tests were presented and compared to theoretical solutions. It was concluded that the peak slamming coefficient is close to the expected theoretical value, but for small impact angles the load measured during the drop becomes significantly lower than theoretical observations and previous tests results, e.g. by Campbell and Weynberg [4]. Possible sources of errors in the tests may be retardation/change of velocity during impact or effect of 3D flow in drop.

In the work presented in this paper these findings have been investigated further. An alternative drop test using a cylinder with smaller diameter, and neglectable effect from 3D flow, has been carried out. Numerical simulations of the drop tests, where effect of retardation is accounted for, have been conducted. In November 2019, the drop test with the slamming section was repeated and the mass of the section was varied to study the effect of retardation. In the present paper results from drop tests and numerical calculations are compared and findings are reported.
Crack Propagation in Dynamic Power Cables
Authors: Li Zhiyuan , Ringsberg Jonas W. , Johnson Erland , Serdyuk Yuriy
Published: October 2022

One failure mechanism of subsea cables is the degradation of the insulation layers by so-called “water treeing” induced by strong electric fields in defects in the material. Usually, the growth of water trees is studied by considering the cyclic variation of Maxwell stresses at the tip of the defect. However, there is a concern for dynamic power cables (i.e., cables with low bending stiffness) what effects the additional contribution from cyclic mechanical stresses will have on the cable’s structural and electrical integrity and operational life.

A dynamic cable installed on a wave energy converter is studied. A vented water tree defect is (assumed to be) initiated in the XLPE insulation material of one of three conductors of a dynamic power cable. COMSOL Multiphysics software is used to simulate how the electric field strength near the tip of the water tree channel increases as the length of the water tree increases. A water tree growth model based on cyclic Maxwell stresses is employed to estimate the time it takes for the water tree to grow until a short circuit of the cable occurs. Numerical simulations in the hydrodynamic software SIMA and the finite element software ABAQUS are carried out for several sea states and ocean current loading conditions to investigate if mechanical stresses due to motions of the dynamic cable shorten the cable’s lifetime. The results from these simulations are used in a fracture mechanics-based model to see how fast a defect in the insulation material grows only due to mechanical stresses. It is found that under the investigated load conditions, the mechanical stresses in the insulation layers are not large enough to contribute to crack growth. It implies that despite the cable motions and the cyclic mechanical stresses in the cable components, the water tree failure of this dynamic cable is mainly associated with the electric field and the resultant cyclic Maxwell stress.
Dynamics of Gas Kick Migration in the Annulus While Drilling/Circulating
Authors: Obi Chinemerem E. , Manikonda Kaushik , Abril Luis , Hasan A. Rashid , Rahman Mohammad A.
Published: October 2022

Multiphase flow pattern during gas kick is made more complex while drilling or circulating out the kick (dynamic conditions). The additional pressure losses due to friction when circulating significantly change the flow pattern in the annulus. This pattern also evolves as the fluid migrates up the wellbore due to changing in-situ conditions and fluid properties. The effects of this scenario on flow pattern evolution have been investigated using water as the continuous phase, air, and carbon dioxide as the kicked fluid.

Experiments were carried out in a 140 ft high tower lab fitted with pressure gauges and digital cameras for visualization. We triggered gas kicks at 80 psi and 90 psi injection pressures and, an average liquid flow rate of about 7-gpm and 15-gpm. The gas rate ranged from about 0.05 ft3/min to 0.5 ft3/min for both air and carbon dioxide injection. The gas injection time ranged from 30 to 500 seconds for air and carbon dioxide to simulate kicks of different gas-liquid mass ratios of about 0.1 ft3/ft3 to 0.3 ft3/ft3. We observed that the fluid distribution, pressure gradient in the annulus of a 2.875-in drill pipe and a 5.5-in outer casing is more complex when circulating drilling fluid than in a shut-in scenario.

The effect of the initial kick pressure on the initial flow pattern observed (Taylor bubble) can be considered negligible. This is due to the fixed 2 in diameter of the gas injection line. The average gas-liquid flow rate and the duration of gas injection significantly affect the flow pattern observed after the “Initial Taylor bubble” (in space). The complexity of this flow behavior is more significant during carbon dioxide kicks than air kicks due to the solubility of carbon dioxide in water. The turbulence following the initial Taylor bubble increased with the average liquid flow rate. This is due to the additional momentum from liquid flow. Similarly, the duration of the kick did not affect the initial Taylor bubble observed but the “After Taylor bubble” flow significantly. These observations are more pronounced during carbon dioxide injection when the liquid is saturated, towards the surface as carbon dioxide begins to come out of solution.

This study shows the need to account for the “After Taylor bubble” flow effects when modeling gas kick behavior. Incorporating the physics of this scenario will significantly improve gas kick models and blow-out mitigation in drilling time.