bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing Innovative Models for Learning in Social Isolation Environments: Exemplifying it for the Bone Anatomy Study
Authors: Santiago Phellipe Caetano , Chagas João Vitor da Silva , Conci Aura
Published: June 2021

Anatomy knowledge is essential for many professionals, such as: doctors, nurses, biologists, biochemical, physiotherapists and any professional in physical education. Over the years, the main anatomical teaching method, the dissection of cadavers becomes less common due to issues related to high costs associated with the maintenance of laboratories, ethical aspects and health risks related to exposure to formaldehyde vapor. This factor was maximized with the Covid-19 pandemic, since presentials accesses to laboratories have become unviable. In order to offer a complementary tool for the teaching of bone anatomy, we propose in this work a serious game in augmented reality, based on controls by analysis of manual gestures, to assist the learning of this discipline.
Do Trees in Halifax Grow on Money?: A Comparison of Urban Tree Canopy Cover and Median Household Income in North End and South End Halifax
Authors: Marshman Kendra
Published: June 2021

Trees in the city provide numerous ecological, health, and social benefits to urban residents. Studies from large North American cities have confirmed a spatial pattern that higher urban forest tree canopy positively correlates with higher levels of affluence. The just distribution of trees will become increasingly important for urban planners and foresters as there is a national trend towards living in cities. This research report investigates the equity of distribution of urban tree canopy cover in two neighbourhoods on the peninsula of Halifax, Nova Scotia. High spatial resolution land cover data from 2007 and 2006 Statistics Canada census data was used to create maps and tables to answer the research question. The socio-economic indicators of median household income and population density are represented based on census tract dissemination areas from the 2006 Statistics Canada long survey. Preliminary results indicate lower median household income and higher population density in the chosen study area of North End Halifax compared to higher median household income and lower population density in the chosen study area of South End Halifax. Tree canopy cover density is slightly lower in North End Halifax (5.3%) than in South End Halifax (7.6%). These preliminary results coincide with findings of other researchers that higher household income and lower population density at the neighbourhood level may result in increased urban forest canopy. However, further research and more reliant tree canopy cover data is needed to determine the accuracy of these findings.
Public Perceptions of the Canadian Government’s Initial Response to Coronavirus: A Canadian Broadcasting Company Content Analysis
Authors: Munroe-Lynds Cora-Lynn
Published: June 2021

It is crucial for the government to maintain the public’s trust during uncertain risk. The Canadian government had approximately three months to develop a risk management strategy before Canada saw its first case of coronavirus. This study aims to show how the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) portrays government decision making during the initial outbreak of Coronavirus in January 2020 through March 2020 exclusive by examining 10 articles per month.  Over the course of the last three months, government officials were increasingly cited in the CBC news articles. Results from this study shows that as the condition in Canada worsened, more evidence-based decision making is present in the articles, especially during the month of March.
Advancement in the Application of Finite Element Analysis to the Optimization of Composite Yacht Structures
Authors: Fornaro David
Published: June 2021

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is mature technology that has been in use for several decades as a tool to optimize structures for a wide variety of applications. Its application to composite structures is not new, however the technology for modeling and analyzing the behavior of composite structures continues to evolve on several fronts. This paper provides a review of the current state-of-the-art with regard to composites FEA, with a particular emphasis on applications to yacht structures. Topics covered are divided into three categories: Pre-processing; Postprocessing; and Non-linear Solutions. Pre-processing topics include meshing, ply properties, laminate definitions, element orientations, global ply tracking and load case development. Post-processing topics include principal stresses, failure indices and strength ratios. Nonlinear solution topics include progressive ply failure. Examples are included to highlight the application of advanced finite element analysis methodologies to the optimization of composite yacht structures.
Free-Surface Effects of Variations in Appendage Vertical Volume Distribution: Where does a Bulb not See the Free-Surface?
Authors: Binns Jonathan R. , Thompson Robert , Brandner Paul A. , Imas Leonard
Published: June 2021

The vertical distribution of appendage volume for a sailing yacht is predominantly driven by the desire for the lowest possible centre of gravity due to the dependence of sail drive force on stability. This results in volume being pushed downwards regardless of hydrodynamic effects. The increase in aspect ratio of the appendages is also increased with greater draft, resulting in a higher efficiency as well as greater drive force. However, some modern designs have reached the limit of draft in terms of restricted access to ports, structural and rule limitations. To counter these restrictions it is not uncommon to incorporate lifting or swing keels to reduce draft at specified times. The effects on aspect ratio and stability are relatively easy to approximate for such a vertical shift in volume, the effects on the free surface are much more difficult to accurately predict. For this purpose some novel experiments using extreme shifts in vertical volume distribution have been performed and compared with numerical predictions. Limits on submergence beneath which appendages effectively “see” no wave resistance have been established based on numerical and experimental results.
Effective Wind Tunnel Testing of Yacht Sails Using a Real-Time Velocity Prediction Program
Authors: Le Pelley David , Richards Peter
Published: June 2021

Wind tunnel testing to determine yacht performance has been carried out for at least the last 50 years. A common perception is that experimental methods do not improve significantly over time. This paper shows how modern wind tunnel testing is still the only realistic way of providing a complete picture of aerodynamic performance over a full range of conditions in a rapid and cost-effective manner. The use of a Real-Time VPP and a sail shape recognition system combine to enhance the accuracy and repeatability of testing. The influence of examining boat speed instead of driving force is investigated.
An Investigation of Transom Lift Devices on High Performance Open-Class Sailing Yachts
Authors: Cooley Seth
Published: June 2021

The principal objective of this research was to determine the merit of transom lift devices on high-performance sailing craft. Transom lift devices modify running trim and also produce several other less-obvious hydrodynamic effects, all of which alter total resistance, thereby affecting the maximum speed achievable under sail. Transom lift devices, in the form of trim tabs, planing wedges, and interceptors, have been used with considerable and quantifiable success for many years on powered craft in both the planing and displacement regimes. This undergraduate thesis extends that research to a round bilged sailing yacht, the Open 60 Imagine—an older Open 60 hull-form by Kaufmann Designs. The effect of transom lift devices was tested on the one-tenth scale model of Imagine in the Robinson Model Basin at Webb Institute. Heel angles of 0, 5, and 10 degrees were investigated at a range of speeds from 1.087 to 13.89 feet per second, model-scale, corresponding to full-scale speeds from 2 to 26 knots. A simplified testing matrix was chosen that did not investigate model yaw, side force, or leeway. Resistance, trim, and sinkage were measured. The study found that transom lift devices, particularly interceptors, greatly affect the trim of the yacht. The devices decrease resistance in the hump region, although on Imagine these decreases were small in magnitude. Importantly, it was shown that the benefits of transom lift devices seem likely to continue even when the yacht is heeled. Outside the hump-region, at both high and low speeds, resistance increased considerably in all configurations. This is thought to be due to increased bow-wetted surface and loss of lift due to excessively decreased trim at the higher speeds. However, it is believed that this study shows that there is considerable merit to the further investigation of transom lift devices on sailing yachts such as Open 60s, particularly more recent hull forms. This paper summarizes work completed for an undergraduate thesis at Webb Institute. Elements of the paper have been designed to meet the original thesis project requirements. Full copies of the original thesis can be obtained from the author or accessed through Webb Institute.
A New Real-time Method for Sailboat Performance Estimation Based on
Leeway Modeling
Authors: Douguet Ronan , Diguet Jean-Philippe , Laurent Johann , Riou Yann
Published: June 2021

This paper presents new methods for real time estimation of leeway and ocean current, which are based on boat displacements. We propose two solutions that rely on several types of Kalman filters. The first one uses the empirical leeway definition and allows finding the key parameter of this formula. The solution works properly if the error of the formula of leeway remains limited. The second solution takes advantage of an additional sensor and we compare three methods to linearize boat displacements, which are based on a closed-loop model including cascaded filters. These methods are tested on simulation and on real data collected with a maxi multihull. The results first validate the use of a DVL sensor for leeway estimation but also show that it requires the implementation of a complex and specific step of signal processing. Secondly our study demonstrates the relevancy of the closed-loop approach and shows that a solution, based on UKF filters, provides a relevant method to cope with accuracy and stability in case of sensor data outage.
An efficient filter with low memory usage for multimedia data of industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Goudarzi Parisa , Rahmani Amir Masoud
Published: June 2021

One of the essential concerns of Internet of Things (IoT) is in industrial systems or data architecture to support the evolutions in transportation and logistics. Considering the Industrial IoT (IIoT) openness, the need for accessibility, availability, and searching of data has rapidly increased. The primary purpose of this research is to propose an Efficient Two-Dimensional Filter (ETDF) to store multimedia data of IIoT applications in a specific format to achieve faster response and dynamic updating. This filter consists of a two-dimensional array and a hash function integrated into a cuckoo filter for efficient use of memory. This study evaluates the scalability of the filter by increasing the number of requests from 10,000 to 100,000. To assess the performance of the proposed filter, we measure the parameters of access time and lookup message latency. The results show that the proposed filter improves the access time by 12%, compared to a Fast Two-Dimensional Filter (FTDF). Moreover, it improves memory usage by 20% compared to FTDF. Experiments indicate a better access time of the proposed filter compared to other filters (i.e., Bloom, quotient, cuckoo, and FTD filters). Insertion and deletion times are essential parameters in comparing filters, so they are also analyzed.
A Rare Case of Fasciola Hepatica and its Treatment
Authors: Mahalingam Harsha Vardhan , Ramachandran Rajoo , Raji Venkatesh Bala Raghu , Radhakrishnan Prabhu Radhan , Sai Venkata
Published: June 2021

Fascioliasis is a re-emerging food-borne parasitic zoonosis which presents with nonspecific clinical symptoms. Definitive diagnosis requires demonstration of parasitic ova in stool which may often be elusive. Imaging plays a crucial role in raising the possibility of this diagnosis early in the disease course. Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography (CECT) of the abdomen was performed in a 44-year-old male with fever, right upper quadrant pain and dyspepsia. The patient later underwent an ultrasound-guided biopsy of liver lesions. The stool examination for ova was negative. Biopsy of the liver lesions showed ill-defined granulomas. Imaging plays a crucial role in establishing the early diagnosis of hepatic fascioliasis especially in nonendemic regions where the clinical suspicion for this diagnosis is low. This article places emphasis on the description of typical imaging features of this condition and the usage of additional investigative/testing techniques recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Interpretation of 24-Hour Urinary Protein Level for Diagnosis of Nephrotic Syndrome in Marked Hypoalbuminemia
Authors: Narayan Raghvendra , Singh Shivani
Published: June 2021

Nephrotic syndrome is a common renal problem in childhood and is characterised by generalised oedema, massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia and hyperlipidemia. There are various laboratory methods to quantify proteinuria. Among them 24-hour urinary protein estimation is considered a gold standard for diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. Nephrotic range proteinuria is considered when 24-hour urinary protein is more than 40 mg/m2/hr. There is scarce literature available regarding the changes in quantitative proteinuria when there is marked hypoalbuminemia (serum albumin less than 2.5 gm/dL). This series is about three patients of nephrotic syndrome (6 yers old male, 4 years old male and 5 years old male), having marked hypoalbuminemia and their 24-hour urinary protein level resulted into non-nephrotic range. All the patients underwent relevant physical, clinical examinations and laboratory blood and urine investigations(Haemoglobin, Mantoux test, chest x-ray, urine routine, urine culture and sensitivity, lipid profile, serum albumin and 24 hour urinary protein). All the cases were managed with Prednisolone and diuretics like Furosemide and were followed up till the subside of proteinuria and oedema conditions.
Screening and Allotting Completely Edentulous Patients using Prosthodontic Diagnostic Index in a Dental School, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Shammas Mohammed , Muhcu Nagihan Kuru , Alzahrani Elaf Abdullah , Alsaadi Rana Ali , Alshaqha Elaf Mohammed , Balkhyoor Jood Ahmed , Abdurahiman VT , Gajdhar Shaiq
Published: June 2021

Introduction: To formulate an ideal treatment plan for edentulous patients, data collected from various diagnostic aids need to be structured and classified according to their treatment needs. The lack of structured diagnostic findings for edentulous patients has always been a barrier to effective care for patients. To address these issues, the American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) established the Prosthodontic Diagnostic Index (PDI) based on specific criteria. Aim: To screen and allot completely edentulous patients to students using PDI in a dental school, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 122 completely edentulous patients who visited the outpatient clinic of a dental school in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The edentulous patients based on PDI were classified into four classes (Class I–IV) according to the diagnostic findings based on the complexities. The parameters studied were: mandibular bone height measured on a panoramic radiograph, residual ridge morphology of the maxillary arch, muscle attachments in the mandibular arch, and maxillomandibular relationship. Statistical analyses were performed using counts and percentages. Results: In the overall classification of PDI maximum 52 (42.6%) patients were classified as Class IV. Among the different criteria of PDI, 48 (39.4%) patients exhibited Class III mandibular bone height of 11-15 mm, whereas 40 (32.8%) patients exhibited Class IV mandibular bone height of 10 mm or less. In the maxillary residual ridge morphology, 62 patients (50.8%) were classified as Class I. A large number of patients 84 (70%) had Type A mandibular muscle attachment criteria and were classified as Class I or II. In the maxillomandibular relationship, the maximum number of patients 74 (60.7%) was of Class I. Conclusion: The majority of patients in the study were categorised as Class IV (severely compromised). Edentulous patients must be classified according to PDI during the initial screening phase so that less complex cases (Class I and II) can be allotted to undergraduate students and more complex cases (Class IV) can be handled by prosthodontists or can be referred to specialist centers so that costly and time-consuming remake of complete dentures can be avoided.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Epileptic Children and its Association with Electroencephalography and Clinical Findings: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Pal Nilkanth Laxman , Sai Sanjay G Sardes , Lawande Anant Lakshmikant , Panandikar Swamini Digamber
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Epilepsy is a global health problem decreasing the quality of life of many children. Neuroimaging particularly, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, (MRI) plays a crucial role in precisely identifying epileptogenic foci that are potentially amenable to surgical resection for a possible cure. Aim: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of MRI in the detection and characterisation of causes of paediatric epilepsy and evaluating association of the diagnostic yield of MRI with the electroencephalogram and the clinical features. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study comprising of 100 children with epilepsy in the age group of 1 month-18 years from December 2017 to December 2019. The mean age of presentation was 8.79±6.12 years. The patient's clinical data and surface electroencephalogram data were recorded. Subsequently performed BRAIN-MRI was associated with the EEG and neurological findings. Data obtained were recorded and statistical analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 23 program. Results: Among 100 children 53% were boys and 47% were girls. The mean age of presentation was 8.79±6.12 years. In the present study, 57% of children had generalised tonic-clonic seizures, 21% had partial seizures, 16% had absence seizures and 6% had myoclonic seizures. On MRI investigation, 61% were found to be normal and 39% were MRI positive. Among the positive cases, the maximum numbers of cases were of cortical gliosis (10%). On statistical evaluation, a significant association was established between the MRI and EEG findings (p=0.03) and MRI and neurological findings (p=0.001). Conclusion: MRI plays a significant role in the evaluation of paediatric epilepsy and it is the imaging modality of choice to establish the correct diagnosis owing to its high spatial resolution and excellent soft-tissue contrast, making MRI the most versatile and useful diagnostic imaging tool for epilepsy patients.
Hemin Covalently Functionalized Carbon Nanobranch with Enzyme‐Like and Photocatalytic Activities for Synergistic Dye Degradation and Antibacterial Therapy
Authors: Xu Chengjie , Zhou Li , Zheng Sidi , Yu Deshuai , Tang Yonghua , Fan Chaoyu , Lin Changxu , Zhou Dongfang , Lin Youhui
Published: June 2021

The development of artificial enzymes with excellent enzyme‐like activities and unique features is highly desirable for their practical applications. Herein, a one‐pot facile method to synthesize hemin covalently functionalized carbon nanobranch (CN‐hemin) via direct pyrolysis of citric acid and covalent coupling of hemin to the formed carbon skeleton, is reported. This strategy is reasonably straightforward, cheap, and environmentally friendly, without any extraneous oxidant, reductant, and harmful additives during the preparation process. Furthermore, the obtained dendritic hybrids possess good water‐solubility, intrinsic peroxidase‐like activity, and satisfactory photocatalytic performance in visible light. These extraordinary properties are mainly due to the structure of CN‐hemin which contains iron porphyrin, aromatic carbon, and citric acid residues. Most importantly, under visible light irradiation, the as‐prepared hemin‐incorporated nanohybrid can act as robust agents for synergistic dye degradation and antibacterial therapy toward Staphylococcus aureus and methicillin‐resistant S. aureus. It is expected that this study can shed valuable light on developing advanced multifunctional nanozymes with combined favorable properties for highly efficient elimination of environmental pollutants and antibacterial treatment.
Efficient Thermally Evaporated γ‐CsPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Zongbao , Ji Ran , Kroll Martin , Hofstetter Yvonne J. , Jia Xiangkun , Becker‐Koch David , Paulus Fabian , Löffler Markus , Nehm Frederik , Leo Karl , Vaynzof Yana
Published: June 2021

Thin‐film deposition by thermal evaporation offers many advantages, yet in the field of perovskite photovoltaics solution‐processed devices significantly outperform those fabricated by thermal evaporation. Here, high‐quality γ‐CsPbI3 perovskite layers by coevaporation of PbI2 and CsI with a small amount of phenylethylammonium iodide (PEAI) are deposited. It is demonstrated that the addition of PEAI into the perovskite layers leads to a preferred crystal orientation and a far improved microstructure, with columnar domains that protrude throughout the film's thickness. This is accompanied by a reduced density of defects as evidenced by the increase in photoluminescence and decrease in Urbach energy as compared to reference CsPbI3 films. Photovoltaic devices based on the PEAI containing perovskite layers reach up to 15% in power conversion efficiency, thus surpassing not only the performance of reference CsPbI3 devices, but also that of most solution‐processed PEAI containing inorganic CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) perovskite solar cells. Importantly, encapsulated thermally evaporated perovskite devices maintain their performance for over 215 days, demonstrating the stabilizing effect of PEAI on thermally evaporated CsPbI3.
Beyond faith: Biomolecular evidence for changing urban economies in multi‐faith medieval Portugal
Authors: Toso Alice , Schifano Simona , Oxborough Charlotte , McGrath Krista , Spindler Luke , Castro Anabela , Evangelista Lucy , Filipe Vanessa , Gonçalves Maria José , Marques Antonio , Mendes da Silva Inês , Santos Raquel , Valente Maria João , McCleery Iona , Alexander Michelle
Published: June 2021

Objectives

During the Middle Ages, Portugal witnessed unprecedented socioeconomic and religious changes under transitioning religious political rule. The implications of changing ruling powers for urban food systems and individual diets in medieval Portugal is poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the dietary impact of the Islamic and Christian conquests.

Materials and Methods

Radiocarbon dating, peptide mass fingerprinting (ZooMS) and stable isotope analysis (δ13C, δ15N) of animal (n = 59) and human skeletal remains (n = 205) from Muslim and Christian burials were used to characterize the diet of a large historical sample from Portugal. A Bayesian stable isotope mixing model (BSIMM) was used to estimate the contribution of marine protein to human diet.

Results

Early medieval (8–12th century), preconquest urban Muslim populations had mean (±1SD) values of −18.8 ± 0.4 ‰ for δ13C 10.4 ± 1 ‰ for δ15N, indicating a predominantly terrestrial diet, while late medieval (12–14th century) postconquest Muslim and Christian populations showed a greater reliance on marine resources with mean (±1SD) values of −17.9 ± 1.3‰ for δ13C and 11.1 ± 1.1‰ for δ15N. BSIMM estimation supported a significant increase in the contribution of marine resources to human diet.

Discussion

The results provide the first biomolecular evidence for a dietary revolution that is not evidenced in contemporaneous historical accounts. We find that society transitioned from a largely agro‐pastoral economy under Islamic rule to one characterized by a new focus on marine resources under later Christian rule. This economic change led to the naissance of the marine economy that went on to characterize the early‐modern period in Portugal and its global expansion.
Electrolyte Chemistry Towards Improved Cycling Stability in Na‐Based Dual‐Ion Batteries with High‐Power/Energy Storage
Authors: Hou Xian‐Kun , Li Shao‐Fang , Li Wen‐Hao , Liang Hao‐Jie , Gu Zhen‐Yi , Luo Xiao‐Xi , Wu Xing‐Long
Published: June 2021

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) have attracted great research interests owing to the co‐utilization of cation and anion as charge carriers. Unlike the low energy density (Eden) of supercapacitors and halogen‐ion batteries also with anion working, graphite‐cathode‐based DIBs exhibit obviously higher Eden with high working voltage. However, general electrolytes cannot satisfy the high‐energy demand for Na‐based DIBs with high power density. Herein, we design an effective electrolyte with optimized performance to limit the occurrence of side reactions during cycling, improving the cycling stability and Eden of Na‐based DIBs. Such electrolyte‐modified Na‐DIBs exhibit higher discharge plateau and specific capacity compared to the pristine batteries, contribute preeminent Eden of 370.4 Wh/kg at a high‐power density of 8888.4 W/kg (2.0 A/g), and deliver higher capacity retention of 72 % after 1000 cycles under 40 °C (1.0 A/g). All of these improvements are attributed to the interphase protection of anode/cathode by modified electrolyte, and the increase of diffusion ability under high potential. This strategy not only provides reference significance for enhancing the performance of DIBs, but also promotes the development of DIBs with high‐power/energy and long‐term cycle working condition.
Community college faculty connections with geoscience societies: Community engagement and leadership development
Authors: Tvelia Sean , Branlund Joy , Hams Jacquelyn , Baer Eric M. D. , Layou Karen M. , Macdonald R. Heather
Published: June 2021

This chapter addresses the engagement of geoscience societies with community college faculty, traces the emergence of the Geo2YC Division as a model for others, and provides examples that focus on ways to build a professional community.
Collaborative research on carbon reinforced concrete structures in the CRC/TRR 280 project
Authors: Beckmann Birgit , Bielak Jan , Bosbach Sven , Scheerer Silke , Schmidt Christopher , Hegger Josef , Curbach Manfred
Published: June 2021

New materials allow new building designs and construction types. However, initial construction projects using the new materials show that traditional construction principles ‐ in the case of carbon reinforced concrete those derived from steel reinforced concrete ‐ are still being used. In other words, conventional materials are merely substituted. Only combined with intelligent construction strategies it is possible to exploit the full potential of innovative materials. Detached from established patterns of thought, the fundamentals for a new way of building with concrete are to be created in the frame of the Collaborative Research Centre Transregio (CRC/TRR) 280 project “Design Strategies for Material‐Minimised Carbon Reinforced Concrete Structures–Principles of a New Approach to Construction” at Technische Universität Dresden (TUD) and RWTH Aachen University. These are to be based on profound insights into the mechanical behavior of novel mineral structures. Innovative lightweight construction strategies and material composites reduce resource and energy consumption while maintaining high levels of usability, structural safety, and durability, while the aspirational esthetics make a valuable contribution to the culture of building. The long‐term research alliance of TUD and RWTH pools the excellent competencies, inspiring research into material‐minimized construction with mineral composites. The article highlights the research activities planned for the first period from July 2020 to June 2024.
Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma: Early clinical experience
Authors: Hiraoka Atsushi , Kumada Takashi , Tada Toshifumi , Hirooka Masashi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Atsukawa Masanori , Takaguchi Koichi , Itobayashi Ei , Fukunishi Shinya , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Tajiri Kazuto , Ochi Hironori , Yasuda Satoshi , Toyoda Hidenori , Ogawa Chikara , Nishimura Takashi , Hatanaka Takeshi , Ohama Hideko , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morishita Asahiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Imai Michitaka , Koizumi Yohei , Nakamura Shinichiro , Joko Kouji , Iijima Hiroko , Hiasa Yoichi , Kudo Masatoshi ,   Real‐life Practice Experts for HCC (RELPEC) Study Group, and HCC 48 Group (Hepatocellular Carcinoma Experts from 48 Clinics in Japan)
Published: June 2021

Background

Although atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atez/bev) treatment has been developed for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (u‐HCC), changes in hepatic function during therapy have yet to be reported.

Aim

This retrospective clinical study aimed to elucidate early responses to Atez/Bev.

Methods

From September 2020 to April 2021, 171 u‐HCC patients undergoing Atez/Bev treatment were enrolled (BCLC stage A:B:C:D = 5:68:96:2). Of those, 75 had no prior history of systemic treatment. Relative changes in hepatic function and therapeutic response were assessed using albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI) score and Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST), ver. 1.1, respectively.

Results

In initial imaging examination findings, objective response rates for early tumor shrinkage and disease control after 6 weeks (ORR‐6W/DCR‐6W) were 10.6%/79.6%. Similar response results were observed in patients with and without a past history of systemic treatment (ORR‐6W/DCR‐6W = 9.7%/77.8% and 12.2%/82.9%), as well as patients in whom Atez/Bev was used as post‐progression treatment following lenvatinib (ORR‐6W/DCR‐6W = 7.7%/79.5%), for which no known effective post‐progression treatment has been established. In 111 patients who underwent a 6‐week observation period, ALBI score was significantly worsened at 3 weeks after introducing Atez/Bev (−2.525 ± 0.419 vs −2.323 ± 0.445, p < .001), but then recovered at 6‐weeks (−2.403 ± 0.452) as compared to 3‐weeks (p = .001). During the observation period, the most common adverse events were appetite loss (all grades) (12.3%), general fatigue/hypertension (all grades) (11.1%, respectively), and urine protein (all grades) (10.5%).

Conclusion

Atez/Bev might have therapeutic potential not only as first but also later‐line treatment of existing molecular target agents. In addition, this drug combination may have less influence on hepatic function during the early period, as the present patients showed a good initial therapeutic response.
Effect of SLCO1B1 T521C on Statin‐Related Myotoxicity With Use of Lovastatin and Atorvastatin
Authors: Lu Brian , Sun Laura , Seraydarian Manuel , Hoffmann Thomas J. , Medina Marisa W. , Risch Neil , Iribarren Carlos , Krauss Ronald M. , Oni‐Orisan Akinyemi
Published: June 2021

The association between the c.521T>C variant allele in SLCO1B1 (reference single nucleotide polymorphism (rs)4149056) and simvastatin‐induced myotoxicity was discovered over a decade ago; however, whether this relationship represents a class effect is still not fully known. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between rs4149056 genotype and statin‐induced myotoxicity in patients taking atorvastatin and lovastatin. Study participants were from the Genetic Epidemiology Research on Adult Health and Aging (GERA) cohort. A total of 233 statin‐induced myopathy + rhabdomyolysis cases met the criteria for inclusion and were matched to 2,342 controls. To validate the drug response phenotype, we replicated the previously established association between rs4149056 genotype and simvastatin‐induced myotoxicity. In particular, compared with homozygous T allele carriers, there was a significantly increased risk of simvastatin‐induced myopathy + rhabdomyolysis in homozygous carriers of the C allele (CC vs. TT, odds ratio [OR] 4.62, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.58–11.90, P = 0.003). For lovastatin users, homozygous carriers of the C allele were also at increased risk of statin‐induced myopathy + rhabdomyolysis (CC vs. TT, OR 4.49, 95% CI 1.68–10.80, P = 0.001). In atorvastatin users, homozygous carriers of the C allele were twice as likely to experience statin‐induced myopathy, though this association did not achieve statistical significance (CC vs. TT, OR 2.00, 95% CI 0.44–6.59, P = 0.30). In summary, our findings suggest that the association of rs4149056 with simvastatin‐related myotoxicity may also extend to lovastatin. More data is needed to determine the extent of the association in atorvastatin users. Altogether, these data expand the evidence base for informing guidelines of pharmacogenetic‐based statin prescribing practices.
Influence of study discontinuation during the run‐in period on the estimated efficacy of sacubitril/valsartan in the PARAGON‐HF trial
Authors: Suzuki Kota , Claggett Brian , Minamisawa Masatoshi , Packer Milton , Zile Michael R. , Pfeffer Marc A. , Chiang Lu‐May , Lefkowitz Martin , McMurray John J.V. , Solomon Scott D. , Desai Akshay S.
Published: June 2021

Aims

The 4822 patients randomized in the PARAGON‐HF trial were a subset of 5746 initially eligible patients who entered sequential run‐in periods. We identified patient factors associated with study discontinuation during the run‐in period and estimated the implications of these discontinuations for the overall study result.

Methods and results

We utilized multivariable logistic regression models to identify patient factors associated with study discontinuation during the run‐in period. The efficacy of sacubitril/valsartan in a broader cohort approximating the full run‐in population was estimated by weighting randomized patients according to the inverse probability of run‐in completion. A total of 924 (16.1%) subjects failed to complete the run‐in period. In multivariable models, non‐completion was associated with region other than Central Europe, lower systolic blood pressure, lower serum sodium, lower haemoglobin, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, higher N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide, higher New York Heart Association functional class, prior heart failure (HF) hospitalization, and lack of prior use of renin–angiotensin system inhibitors or beta‐blocker. In repeat analysis of the effect of randomized treatment in PARAGON‐HF giving greater weight to participants resembling those who failed to complete the run‐in period, the incidence of HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular death was higher, and sacubitril/valsartan treatment reduced the composite of total HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular death compared with valsartan (rate ratio 0.86; 95% confidence interval 0.74–1.00).

Conclusion

Patients with more advanced HF were at higher risk for non‐completion of the run‐in period in PARAGON‐HF. Re‐analysis of study outcomes accounting for the effect of run‐in non‐completion did not alter the estimated treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan vs. valsartan.
One COVID‐19 residual: Reimagined applicants, students, and graduates
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: June 2021

“If there is any leader who thinks we are going back to where we were a year ago, they are kidding themselves.”

Terri E. Givers, Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Higher Education
Learn how the Registrar's Office can be key to enrollment management success
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: June 2021

At heart, enrollment management is about recruiting and retaining successful students who graduate. The Registrar's Office can play a big role in that endeavor, regardless of where it sits in the institution's reporting structure.
Loc680254 regulates Schwann cell proliferation through Psrc1 and Ska1 as a microRNA sponge following sciatic nerve injury
Authors: Yao Chun , Wang Qihui , Wang Yaxian , Wu Jiancheng , Cao Xuemin , Lu Yan , Chen Yanping , Feng Wei , Gu Xiaosong , Dun Xin‐Peng , Yu Bin
Published: June 2021

Peripheral nerve injury triggers sequential phenotype alterations in Schwann cells, which are critical for axonal regeneration. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are long transcripts without obvious coding potential. It has been reported that lncRNAs participate in diverse biological processes and diseases. However, the role of lncRNA in Schwann cells and peripheral nerve regeneration is unclear. Here, we identified an lncRNA, loc680254, which is upregulated in rat sciatic nerve after peripheral nerve injury. The loc680254 knockdown inhibits Schwann cell proliferation, enhances apoptosis, and hinders cell cycle, while loc680254 overexpression has the opposite effect. Mechanically, we found that loc680254 might act as a microRNA sponge to regulate the expression of mitosis‐related gene, spindle and kinetochore associated complex subunit 1 (Ska1) and proline/serine‐rich coiled‐coil 1 (Psrc1). Silencing of Psrc1 or Ska1 attenuates the effect of loc680254 overexpression on Schwann cell proliferation. Finally, we repaired the rat sciatic nerve gap with chitosan scaffolds loaded with loc680254‐overexpressing Schwann cells and evaluated axon regeneration and functional recovery. Our results indicated that loc680254 is a new potential modulator for Schwann cell proliferation, which could be targeted to develop novel therapeutic strategies for peripheral nerve repair.
Emerging two‐dimensional bismuth oxychalcogenides for electronics and optoelectronics
Authors: Wang Fakun , Yang Sijie , Wu Jie , Hu Xiaozong , Li Yuan , Li Huiqiao , Liu Xitao , Luo Junhua , Zhai Tianyou
Published: June 2021

Atomically thin two‐dimensional (2D) bismuth oxychalcogenides (Bi2O2X, X = S, Se, Te) have recently attracted extensive attention in the material research community due to their unique structure, outstanding long‐term ambient stability, and high carrier mobility, which enable them as promising candidates for high‐performance electronic and optoelectronic applications. Herein, we present a comprehensive review on the recent advances of 2D bismuth oxychalcogenides research. We start with an introduction of their fundamental properties including crystal structure and electronic band structure. Next, we summarize the common techniques for synthesizing these 2D structures with high crystallinity and large lateral size. Furthermore, we elaborate on their device applications including transistors, artificial synapses, optical switch and photodetectors. The last but not the least, we summarize the existing challenges and prospects for this emerging 2D bismuth oxychalcogenides field.

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Clinical application of a scale to assess genomic healthcare empowerment (GEmS): Process and illustrative case examples
Authors: McConkie‐Rosell Allyn , Schoch Kelly , Sullivan Jennifer , Spillmann Rebecca C. , Cope Heidi , Tan Queenie K.‐G. , Palmer Christina G. S. ,   Undiagnosed Disease Network, Hooper Stephen R. , Shashi Vandana
Published: June 2021

The Genome Empowerment Scale (GEmS), developed as a research tool, assesses perspectives of parents of children with undiagnosed disorders about to undergo exome or genome sequencing related to the process of empowerment. We defined genomic healthcare empowerment as follows: perceived ability to understand and seek new information related to the genomic sequencing, manage emotions related to the diagnostic process and outcomes, and utilize genomic sequencing information to the betterment of the individual/child and family. The GEmS consists of four scales, two are primarily emotion‐focused (Meaning of a Diagnosis, and Emotional Management of the Process) and two are action‐oriented (Seeking Information and Support, and Implications and Planning). The purpose of this research was to provide a strategy for interpreting results from the GEmS and present illustrative cases. These illustrations should serve to facilitate use of the GEmS in the clinical and research arena, particularly with respect to guiding genetic counseling processes for parents of children with undiagnosed conditions.
Anticancer activity of indapamide adsorbed on gold nanoparticles: DFT, in‐silico, and in‐vitro analysis
Authors: Shyni V. , Leenaraj D. R. , Ittyachan Reena , Joseph Lynnette , Sajan D.
Published: June 2021

The adsorption properties of the lung cancer agent indapamide (IND) on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), were studied with the help of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering techniques. The structure‐activity of the IND and INDA molecule has been studied using DFT/B3LYP methodology. NBO analysis reveals that, both the molecules are stabilized by a C─H…O intramolecular hydrogen bonding, apart from the conjugative and intramolecular charge transfer interactions. The analysis of the electron density of frontier molecular orbital analysis gives a comparative idea of the reactivity, the low kinetic stability, and low value of energy gap indicating the electron transport in the molecule and thereby its bioactivity. The molecular electrostatic potential, local and global reactivity indicators predict the reactive site of the molecules. FT‐IR, FT‐Raman, and surface‐enhanced Raman scattering have been investigated and compared with the theoretical prediction. Effective in‐silico (molecular docking) biological activity screening of the molecules was checked on lung cancer cells. In‐vitro (surface‐enhanced Raman scattering techniques and MTT assay) analysis confirms the results from the in‐silico analysis. This study promotes the potential of SERS agents for targeted drug delivery and photothermal therapy and the novelty of the IND and INDA molecule against lung cancer activity.
Impact of a targeted volume‐increase nutrition guideline on growth and body mass index in premature infants: A retrospective review
Authors: Philip Stephanie S. , Davenport Sarah E. , Mannan Javed , White Heather O. , Lee Austin F. , Rhein Lawrence M.
Published: June 2021

Background

The negative impact of disproportionate growth in premature infants is well documented, but optimal nutrition practices needed to prevent an unhealthy body mass index (BMI) remain unclear.

Methods

An evidence‐based, volume‐increase guideline that advanced feeding volumes from 150–160 to 170–180 ml/kg/day between the postmenstrual age (PMA) of 31 0/7 and 34 0/7 weeks was implemented in October 2017 for infants born at ≤32 0/7 weeks’ gestational age. Data were collected on 262 infants’ weight and length at birth and at discharge for 20 months before and 21 months after guideline implementation, and retrospective analysis was conducted to determine disproportionate growth by comparing BMIs (in g/cm2) at birth and at discharge. Changes in infants’ body habitus were determined through bivariate analysis of weight and length z‐scores from the Fenton growth curve.

Results

Implementation of a targeted volume nutrition guideline resulted in fewer infants with growth failure, defined as weight <10th percentile (19.5% vs 11.2%; P = .06) at discharge. Infants who received treatment according to the targeted nutrition guideline had a statistically significant reduction in disproportionately low BMI (8.6% vs 2.5%; P = .0380) and an increase in disproportionately high BMIs (4.3% vs 12.3%; P = .025). There was minor change in the percentage of disproportionately large infants who received the guidelines from birth to discharge (11.5% vs 12.3%).

Conclusions

A targeted volume‐increase nutrition guideline may prevent growth failure, with some effects on disproportionate growth in preterm infants born at ≤32 0/7 weeks’ gestational age.
Schrödinger equation based analytic assessment of thermal properties of confined electrons under vector and scalar fields
Authors: Eshghi Mahdi , Ahmadi Azar Ismaeil , Soudi Sasan
Published: June 2021

In this research, we have extracted the covariant form of the Schrödinger equation in the Riemannian manifold = ℝ3with a position‐dependent mass (PDM) distribution in the presence of magnetic fields for each point Then, we have solved the extracted nonrelativistic equation for a charged particle with a PDM in quantum system under the magnetic and Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux fields and Yukawa‐like potential using the Frobenius series method. It is interesting that the obtained analytical solutions of the nonrelativistic equation have been expressed in terms of the biconfluent Heun function (BHF). Then, we have expanded the BHF as the power series and obtained a three‐term recurrence relation between the successive coefficients of the power expansion. To investigate the nontrivial solution of the power expansion, we need to apply an explicit continued fraction equation for the coefficients of the recurrence relation. This relation must be satisfied in order to assure the series convergence. At the continuation, we have found two different conditions using the submitted lemmas. Then, using the obtained conditions, we have calculated the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of the particle in the arbitrary point of the manifold. Finally, the canonical formalism is applied to compute different thermodynamic variables for the case of the higher temperatures. Also, we have discussed the special states on the obtained results.
Diffeomorphic respiratory motion estimation of thoracoabdominal organs for image‐guided interventions
Authors: Lei Long , Huang Li , Zhao Baoliang , Hu Ying , Jiang Zhongliang , Zhang Jianwei , Li Bing
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Percutaneous image‐guided interventions are commonly used for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. In practice, physiological breathing‐induced motion increases the difficulty of accurately inserting needles into tumors without impairing the surrounding vital structures. In this work, we propose a data‐driven patient‐specific hierarchical respiratory motion estimation framework to accurately estimate the position of a tumor and surrounding vital tissues in real time.

Methods

The motion of optical markers attached to the chest or abdomen skin is used as a surrogate signal to estimate tumor motion based on ɛ‐support vector regression (ɛ‐SVR). With the estimated tumor motion as the input, a novel respiratory motion model is developed to estimate the diffeomorphic deformation field of the whole organ (liver or lung) without intraoperative, iterative optimization computations. The respiratory motion model of the whole organ is established in Lie algebra space based on the kriging algorithm to ensure that the estimated deformation field is diffeomorphic, optimal, and unbiased. Preoperative prior knowledge for modeling the motion of whole organs is obtained by deformation registration between four‐dimensional computed tomography (4D CT) images using a hybrid diffeomorphic registration method.

Results and Conclusions

Experimental results on anin vivobeagle dog show that the minimum value of the determinant of the Jacobian of the estimated deformation field is greater than zero, so the estimated deformation field of the whole liver with our method is diffeomorphic. The mean position error of the tumor is 1.2 mm corresponding to a mean accuracy improvement of 76.5%, and the mean position error of the whole liver is 2.1 mm, corresponding to a mean accuracy improvement of 37.9%. The experimental results based on public human subject data show that the mean position error of the tumor is 1.1 mm, corresponding to a mean accuracy improvement of 83.1%, and the mean position error of the whole lung is 2.1 mm, corresponding to a mean accuracy improvement of 41.4%. The positioning errors for the tumor and whole organ are hierarchical and consistent with clinical demand.