bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender Role on Food Security and Consumption Practices in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Hamidur , Kabir Md. Shajahan , Moon Monira Parvin , Ame Atia Sharmin , Islam Md. Monjurul
Published: August 2021

This study was carried out to investigate the factors affecting food security status, patterns of food consumption, and changes in consumption behavior. It also evaluated the gender role in food security and consumption practices in the rural areas of Bangladesh. The research was both in quantitative and qualitative in nature. Qualitative research tools such as FGD, KII and Case Study were used to collect the primary data. Data analysis was done by Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Binary Logistic regression model was used to determine the factors affecting in food security status of the selected households. Regression result shows that income, availability of food and food stock were found to be positive and size of household negatively associated with the food security. Rice dominates the food consumption pattern of the rural people. Income, production, education and awareness are causes of change in consumption behaviour of the people of study area. Men have pivotal role in household food security. Male members involve in income, assure of family assets, and on the contrary female have to manage almost all the unproductive household affairs. In the poorer household women have a little contribution in food security due to male dominating. Women contributions were more than that of men in household food consumption. Most of the household related tasks and household works related to food consumption were done by female.
Indonesian Government Mitigation Efforts towards Climate Change in the Marine and Fisheries Sector
Authors: Atmaji Dwi , Purnomo Eko Priyo , Fatahni Aqil Teguh
Published: August 2021

Aims: This study aims to determine the Indonesian Government's mitigation efforts in dealing with climate change, especially in the marine and fisheries sector.

Study Design:  Literature study model.

Place and Duration of Study: Yogyakarta, Indonesia; 2020-2021.

Methodology: This study method utilized a qualitative approach with a literature study model. Sixty scientific national and international journals, online mass media, and legislations were collected. Data sources were used to explain the mitigation policy analysis of climate change in the marine and fisheries sector. The study stages started from article searching, theme classification, literature mapping based on discussions of various scientific journals, books, and online mass media with different orientations, data analysis, interpretation, and data presentation.

Results: The results of the study reveal that the impact of climate change on the marine and fisheries sector is very significant so that the Indonesian government establishes various policies, undertakes mitigation efforts to strengthen its identity as a maritime country, eradicates illegal, unreported, unregulated (IUU) fishing, imposes a moratorium on ex-foreign ships, accelerates the growth of national economy, enhance food sovereignty and promote the development of maritime and marine economies. However, there are still problems in implementing policies, so it is necessary to improve the management system for climate change countermeasures in the marine and fisheries sector in Indonesia.

Conclusion: Mitigation strategies in the marine and fisheries sector in Indonesia that can be implemented include applying sustainable aquaculture management practices suitable for carrying capacity and developing an integrated cultivation system. Various climate change mitigation policies in the marine and fisheries sector of the Government of Indonesia are commendable given many recognized successes, but there are still many problems with policy implementation. Ineffective application of policies is due to the government's focus on tackling climate change based on forestry and energy sectors, weak application of laws, and other problems. There is still a need for improvement in the management system for climate change countermeasures in Indonesia's marine and fisheries sector.
REDESAIN KEMASAN, SEBUAH USULAN BAGI UKM MITRA USAHA SANGKAR SIDOARJO
Authors: Laksono Yunanto Tri , Prasetya Ardian Jaya , Martono Siswo Martono
Published: August 2021

The SME Business Partners Sangkar in Sepanjang Village, Taman Subdistrict, Sidoarjo City has greater potential in the creation and development of cage shapes. But the form and character of the design are always manual and still using conventional systems, so in an effort to increase sales, they have not been able to compete globally.  The partners in this community service are cage workers in the village of Sepanjang, Taman Subdistrict, Sidoarjo City, the process for carrying out activities is divided into three forms: preparation, implemen­tation and evaluation. The role of optimization is carried out in the form of a field survey to find out the conditions related to the process and work system carried out by cage craftsmen in Sepanjang Village, Taman Subdistrict, Sidoarjo City. The community services program focuses on community development to ensure independence and economic stability. Thanks to the Community Service Program, it is hoped that it will be able to make a good contribution to the development of businesses owned by partners so that in the future they can provide continued efforts in the same field.
 
Abstrak: Kelompok UKM Mitra Usaha Sangkar Kelurahan Sepanjang Kecamatan Taman Kabupaten Sidoarjo memiliki potensi unggul dalam menciptakan dan mengembangkan bentuk sangkar. Namun bentuk dan karakter desain masih bersifat manual dan masih menggunakan cara konvensional, sehingga sebagai upaya peningkatan penjualan belum mampu bersaing dan berkompetisi secara global. Mitra pada pengabdian masyarakat ini merupakan pengrajin sangkar di Kelurahan Sepanjang Kecamatan Taman Kabupaten Sidoarjo, proses pelaksanaan kegiatan terbagi dalam 3 bentuk, yaitu: persiapan, pelaksanaan, dan juga evaluasi. Peran opti­ma­­lisasi dilakukan dengan bentuk survei lapangan untuk mengetahui kondisi terkait dengan proses dan sistem kerja yang dilakukan oleh pengrajin sangkar di Kelurahan Sepanjang Kecamatan Taman Kabupaten Sidoarjo. Program pengabdian masyarakat ini memiliki tujuan sebagai pengembangan masyakarat agar memiliki kemandirian dan kemapanan secara ekonomi. Melalui karya seni dalam bentuk desain produk diharapkan mampu memberikan implementasi dalam bentuk Hak Kekayaan Intelektual (HKI) yaitu desain produk industri. Melalui program kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini diharapkan mampu memberikan kontri­busi yang baik dengan perkembangan usaha yang dimiliki oleh mitra sehingga dikemudian hari dapat memberikan continued effort pada bidang yang sama.
Correlation Analysis between Wave Parameters using Wave Data Observed in HeMOSU-1&2
Authors: Lee Uk-Jae , Ko Dong-Hui , Cho Hong-Yeon , Oh Nam-Sun
Published: August 2021

In this study, waves were defined using the water surface elevation data observed from the HeMOSU-1 and 2 marine meteorological observation towers installed on the west coast of Korea, and correlation analysis was performed between wave parameters. The wave height and wave period were determined using the wave-train analysis method and the wave spectrum analysis method, and the relationship between the wave parameters was calculated and compared with the previous study. In the relation between representative wave heights, most of the correlation coefficients between waves showed a difference of less than 0.1% in error rate compared to the previous study, and the maximum wave height showed a difference of up to 29%. In addition, as a result of the correlation analysis between the wave periods, the peak period was estimated to be abnormally large at rates of 2.5% and 1.3% in HeMOSU-1&2, respectively, due to the effect of the bimodal spectrum that occurs when the spectral energy density is small.
Solution‐Synthesized Multifunctional Janus Nanotree Microswimmer
Authors: Dai Jia , Cheng Xiang , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Zhisheng , Wang Yufeng , Zheng Jing , Liu Jun , Chen Jiawei , Wu Changjin , Tang Jinyao
Published: August 2021

Synthetic active matters are perfect model systems for non‐equilibrium thermodynamics and of great potential for novel biomedical and environmental applications. However, most applications are limited by the complicated and low‐yield preparation, while a scalable synthesis for highly functional microswimmers is highly desired. In this paper, an all‐solution synthesis method is developed where the gold‐loaded titania‐silica nanotree can be produced as a multi‐functional self‐propulsion microswimmer. By applying light, heat, and electric field, the Janus nanotree demonstrated multi‐mode self‐propulsion, including photochemical self‐electrophoresis by UV and visible light radiation, thermophoresis by near‐infrared light radiation, and induced‐charge electrophoresis under AC electric field. Due to the scalable synthesis, the Janus nanotree is further demonstrated as a high‐efficiency, low‐cost, active adsorbent for water decontamination, where the toxic mercury ions can be reclaimed with enhanced efficiency.
Understanding Zn‐Ion Insertion Chemistry through Nonaqueous Electrochemical Investigation of 2H‐NbSe2
Authors: Park Min Je , Asl Hooman Yaghoobnejad , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: August 2021

Electrochemical Zn‐ion insertion into 2H‐NbSe2, which can be considered as a platform host, is investigated with bulk and microflower particles formed of nanosheets to bolster the understanding of Zn‐ion insertion chemistry. While electrochemical Zn‐ion insertion into bulk particles of 2H‐NbSe2 is observed to be hindered, it is found to be reversible and facile with microflower particles formed of nanosheets, emphasizing the importance of minimizing the kinetic limitations to Zn‐ion insertion. Also, the facile diffusion characteristics of Zn ions in the microflower particles of 2H‐NbSe2 is determined to be due to both its morphology that provides shortened diffusion length and the relatively low Zn‐ion migration barrier of 0.59 eV in the 2H‐NbSe2 structure, which is comparable to Li‐ion migration barrier in the well‐known spinel LiMn2O4. Such relatively low migration barrier of a multivalent ion like Zn2+ ion in 2H‐NbSe2 highlights the criticality of achieving weaker host–guest interaction for a multivalent‐ion host material as well as the reduced particle size to attain appreciable diffusion and reversible electrochemical behavior.
Highly Reliable BaTiO3‐Polyphenylene Oxide Nanocomposite Dielectrics via Cold Sintering
Authors: Sada Takao , Tsuji Kosuke , Ndayishimiye Arnaud , Fan Zhongming , Fujioka Yoshihiro , Randall Clive A.
Published: August 2021

In the design of the ceramic capacitor, high capacitance, temperature stability, and high operating voltage must be balanced against the failure mechanisms of degradation. Cold sintering is used to develop dense BaTiO3 – poly (p‐phenylene oxide) (PPO) nanocomposites with PPO throughout the grain boundary microstructure. To obtain the desired PPO distribution, a process is introduced that distributes the polymers on the BaTiO3 powders prior to the cold sintering process. With the cold sintering enabled by a Ba(OH)2·8H2O transient phase, theoretical densities ≈95% could be obtained at a sintering temperature ≈225 °C with up to 15 vol% PPO content. The rationale is to influence the local electric field distribution within the dielectric, to maximize resistivity (1013–1014 Ω cm) and degradation resistance, minimize temperature dependence of permittivity, and minimize the field dependent permittivity. All these properties are investigated as a function of the volume fraction of PPO. The magnitude of the permittivity follows a logarithmic mixing law: 1460 to 680 for the nanocomposite with 5 to 15 vol% PPO content, respectively, at room temperature. The BaTiO3‐PPO composite dielectrics are contrasted under accelerated lifetime testing conditions, noting superior resistance toward degradation kinetics, indicating an important breakthrough opportunity towards the development of high reliability dielectrics.
Hydrogel Film@Au Nanoparticle Arrays Based on Self‐Assembly Co‐Assisted by Electrostatic Attraction and Hydrogel‐Shrinkage for SERS Detection with Active Gaps
Authors: Xing Changchang , Zhong Shichuan , Liu Dilong , Zhang Tao , Cao An , Zeng Pan , Men Dandan , Li Cuncheng , Cai Weiping , Li Yue
Published: August 2021

A facile route to fabricate the hydrogel film@Au nanoparticle array composite for a surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate with high signal sensitivity and signal uniformity based on self‐assembly co‐assisted by electrostatic reaction and hydrogel‐shrinkage is developed. First, the positive‐charged Au nanoparticles (NPs) are self‐assembled on the hydrogel film with opposite charges due to electrostatic attraction to obtain non‐close‐packed Au NP films on both surface sides of the hydrogel film. Then, the non‐close‐packed Au NP films are densified to further form hexagonal close‐packed Au NP arrays on both surfaces due to the principle of minimum free energy during the hydrogel‐shrinkage process. The shrinkage of hydrogel film is proved to be a key process to form hexagonal close‐packed Au NP arrays by densifying the non‐closely packed Au NPs achieved by electrostatically self‐assembled on the hydrogel film. Constructed SERS substrate exhibits high signal sensitivity, colorant molecule amaranth with a concentration as low as 10−8 m can be detected. This is caused by the uniform array structure with active gaps between neighboring NPs on a large area. Overall, this work paves a way to fabricate functional NP arrays on soft hydrogel, which will be highly helpful to prepare the micro/nano‐structured devices.
Flight muscles in falcons (Falconiformes, Falconinae): A quantitative approach
Authors: Mosto María Clelia , Picasso Mariana Beatriz Julieta , Montes Martín Miguel , Tudisca Alejandro Martín , Krone Oliver
Published: August 2021

The family Falconidae has contrasting behaviors on its flight within the subfamilies. Falcons are primarily aerial predators requiring accuracy, high speed, and controlled movements during flight. Caracaras are generalists that seek food while walking and their flight is characterized as slow and erratic. We aimed to explore the muscle mass of the primary wing muscles in several species of Falconinae and to identify possible differences related to the role that these muscles perform during flight. We studied 34 wing muscles in 11 specimens of five species of falcons. The percentage of each muscle with respect to body mass was calculated as well as the total wing muscle mass. The search for differences between muscles of falcons and caracaras was analyzed using Bayesian statistical inference. Published data from Polyborinae were used for comparison. Five muscles were significantly different between both subfamiliesmm. latissimus dorsi pars caudalis,biceps brachii,extensor carpi radialis,flexor digitorum superficialis, andextensor digitorum communis.The first two muscles were larger in Polyborinae, which could be useful to achieve more strength and stabilization. In falcons the last three muscles listed were larger, which might be associated with their fast and acrobatic flight. Variations in certain muscles generate, in turn, differences in function, which is reflected in their type of flight and its use. These findings reinforce the modular character of the locomotor system of birds whereby the regions involved in locomotion can have morphological peculiarities according to their lifestyle.
From campus to the world: Global learning in the context of an urban community college
Authors: Aykol Ece , Kapetanakos Demetrios , Lehman Regina
Published: August 2021

This article discusses and models an all‐day, low‐stakes, high‐impact, interdisciplinary, Global Learning program at LaGuardia Community College which successfully promoted global citizenship.
“Do it cheaper”: A cost‐effective Endobag for small specimens
Authors: Chatzipapas Ioannis , Kathopoulis Nikolaos , Samartzis Konstantinos , Kypriotis Konstantinos , Siemou Panagiota , Protopapas Athanasios
Published: August 2021

A simple technique that permits to reduce the cost during gynecologic laparoscopic surgery. Small specimens may be retrieved with the use of a modified urine pediatric bag.
Rupture of a dissecting thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm due to Citrobacter freundii infection
Authors: Hashimoto Masafumi , Mogi Kenji , Sakurai Manabu , Sakata Tomoki , Tani Kengo , Takahara Yoshiharu
Published: August 2021

We describe a case of an elderly man with Citrobacter freundii‐associated infectious rupture of a dissecting thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm. We performed an emergency thoracoabdominal aortic replacement using a rifampicin‐soaked prosthetic graft and omental flap wrapping. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 255, although he experienced pseudomembranous enteritis and paraplegia.
Primary diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma of the bone mimicking osteomyelitis
Authors: Mofidi Abbas , Esfandbod Mohsen , Pendar Ehsan , Mortezazadeh Masoud , Hadizadeh Alireza
Published: August 2021

Consider primary bone lymphoma as an important differential diagnosis of osteomyelitis.In patients who are unresponsive to antibiotics and core needle biopsy result is incoherent with clinical symptoms, consider open biopsy for accurate diagnosis.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as adjuvant therapy for odontogenic necrotizing myositis: A case report
Authors: Cracchiolo Andrea N. , Palma Daniela Maria , Palmeri Marco , Tantillo Diego , Lo Bue Rosalia , Braconi Andrea , Caramanna Claudio , Solazzo Luigi , Genco Fabio , Mirto Paola
Published: August 2021

In a young man affected by skin soft tissue infections complicated with myositis, the use of hyperbaric oxygen treatment as an adjuvant therapy to surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy could improve management and prognosis.
Coexistent thyroid and lung cancers resembling “flip‐flop” phenomenon
Authors: Cavaco Daniela , Fraga Davide , Ferreira Teresa
Published: August 2021

The “flip‐flop” phenomenon may be present in differentiated progressive thyroid cancer. A high suspicion index must be maintained when this phenomenon coexists with a high tumor burden, due to the risk of the appearance of distinct tumors.
Extraction and purification of phosphatidylcholine and its potential in nanoliposomal delivery of Eucalyptus citriodora oil
Authors: Bahari Mohsen , Vaziri Asma Sadat , Alemzadeh Iran
Published: August 2021

Phosphatidylcholine (PC) possesses amphiphilic characteristics to form vesicles or liposome nanoparticles and can be utilized to deliver essential nutrients such as proteins, peptide antigens, and essential fatty acids. In this study, an attempt has been made to obtain purified PC and evaluate its potential in nanoliposome synthesis and its corresponding drug release profile. In this regard, four physical separation techniques comprising extraction, precipitation, static, and dynamic adsorption were assessed and applied to purify PC from soybean lecithin. Different solvents and the ratio of lecithin to solvent were used to achieve the highest PC percentage. The results of an HPLC test showed that the maximum rate of PC extracted was 69%, through combining all four stages. In the next step, the synthesis of nanoliposomes from purified PC was carried out by the sonication method. Eucalyptus citriodora oil was used to evaluate the potential of the resultant nanoliposomes to encapsulate hydrophobic antibacterial drugs. The morphology and size distribution of nanoliposomes were investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis. The long‐term stability of antibacterial‐loaded nanoliposomes was confirmed by their release behaviour patterns. The data from DLS and AFM resulted in narrow size distribution, with an average diameter of 201.23 and 197.22 nm, respectively. Compared to non‐loaded nanoparticles, the results showed a slight increase in the size of oil‐loaded nanoliposomes. The release profile of the encapsulated drug resulted in sustained release behaviour during eight days of storage in phosphate saline buffer.
Unraveling the plant diversity of the Amazonian canga through DNA barcoding
Authors: Vasconcelos Santelmo , Nunes Gisele L. , Dias Mariana C. , Lorena Jamily , Oliveira Renato R. M. , Lima Talvâne G. L. , Pires Eder S. , Valadares Rafael B. S. , Alves Ronnie , Watanabe Maurício T. C. , Zappi Daniela C. , Hiura Alice L. , Pastore Mayara , Vasconcelos Liziane V. , Mota Nara F. O. , Viana Pedro L. , Gil André S. B. , Simões André O. , Imperatriz‐Fonseca Vera L. , Harley Raymond M. , Giulietti Ana M. , Oliveira Guilherme
Published: August 2021

The canga of the Serra dos Carajás, in Eastern Amazon, is home to a unique open plant community, harboring several endemic and rare species. Although a complete flora survey has been recently published, scarce to no genetic information is available for most plant species of the ironstone outcrops of the Serra dos Carajás. In this scenario, DNA barcoding appears as a fast and effective approach to assess the genetic diversity of the Serra dos Carajás flora, considering the growing need for robust biodiversity conservation planning in such an area with industrial mining activities. Thus, after testing eight different DNA barcode markers (matK, rbcL, rpoB, rpoC1, atpF‐atpH, psbK‐psbI, trnH‐psbA, and ITS2), we chose rbcL and ITS2 as the most suitable markers for a broad application in the regional flora. Here we describe DNA barcodes for 1,130 specimens of 538 species, 323 genera, and 115 families of vascular plants from a highly diverse flora in the Amazon basin, with a total of 344 species being barcoded for the first time. In addition, we assessed the potential of using DNA metabarcoding of bulk samples for surveying plant diversity in the canga. Upon achieving the first comprehensive DNA barcoding effort directed to a complete flora in the Brazilian Amazon, we discuss the relevance of our results to guide future conservation measures in the Serra dos Carajás.
Potential impacts of CO2 leakage on groundwater quality of overlying aquifer at geological carbon sequestration sites: A review and a proposed assessment procedure
Authors: Zheng Liange , Nico Peter , Spycher Nicolas , Domen Jeremy , Credoz Anthony
Published: August 2021

One of the risks of geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) is the leakage of injected CO2 into overlying groundwater resources, resulting in potential deterioration of the quality of the groundwater due to the increase in acidity, the release of trace metals and organic compounds, and potential changes in microbial activities. A large number of studies have been conducted to evaluate various aspects of the impact of CO2 leakage on overlying aquifers using natural analog, laboratory experiments, field tests, and numerical models. In this paper, we conducted an exhaustive review of the published work, focusing on the statistical assessment of the risk posed by the trace elements including Pb, As, Cd, Ba, and U and identifying the knowledge gaps. Key observations from the review include the following: (1) Pb, As, and U are metals of primary concern because multiple cases showed their concentration higher than maximum contaminant level (MCL) or other regulatory standards, (2) carbonate aquifers seemed more vulnerable to Pb and As contamination but not to U, (3) Cd and Ba are less a concern, only one case showed Cd/Ba concentration higher than MCL, (4) none of the field studies showed the concentrations of Pb and As higher than MCL, although one push–pull field test showed the concentration of U higher than MCL, (5) the order of aggressiveness in terms of releasing trace metals was determined to be as follows: batch experiment > column experiment > field test, and (6) there is no clear correlation between metal release and type of sediments, type of aquifer, the content of carbonate and clay. Evaluation likely has to be done on a case‐by‐case basis. For further operations of CO2 storage overview and screening of potential sites, we suggest the use of an eight‐step environmental risk assessment procedure comprising laboratory experiment, screening modeling work, and field testing for assessing the vulnerability of the overlying aquifers to degradation from CO2 leakage from the GCS site. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in astrocytes
Authors: Sims Savannah G. , Cisney Rylee N. , Lipscomb Marissa M. , Meares Gordon P.
Published: August 2021

Astrocytes are glial cells that support neurological function in the central nervous system (CNS), in part, by providing structural support for neuronal synapses and blood vessels, participating in electrical and chemical transmission, and providing trophic support via soluble factors. Dysregulation of astrocyte function contributes to neurological decline in CNS diseases. Neurological diseases are highly heterogeneous but share common features of cellular stress including the accumulation of misfolded proteins. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been reported in nearly all neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. ER stress occurs when there is an accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER lumen and the protein folding demand of the ER is overwhelmed. ER stress initiates the unfolded protein response (UPR) to restore homeostasis by abating protein translation and, if the cell is irreparably damaged, initiating apoptosis. Although protein aggregation and misfolding in neurological disease has been well described, cell‐specific contributions of ER stress and the UPR in physiological and disease states are poorly understood. Recent work has revealed a role for active UPR signaling that may drive astrocytes toward a maladaptive phenotype in various model systems. In response to ER stress, astrocytes produce inflammatory mediators, have reduced trophic support, and can transmit ER stress to other cells. This review will discuss the current known contributions and consequences of activated UPR signaling in astrocytes.
A new approach to regenerative medicine in gynecology
Authors: Mantovani Marina , Gennai Alessandro , Russo Paola Rosalba
Published: August 2021

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of the injection of microfragmented adipose tissue in the treatment of women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).

Methods

This observational cohort study included 12 women who received one session of multiple injections of microfragmented adipose tissue using the SEFFIGYN™medical device. Symptoms such as burning, itching, dryness, pain on penetration, pain during deep intercourse, and pain on urination were assessed before the patient's treatment (T0), after 15 days (T15), and after 5 months (5Mo) using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS).

Results

An improvement of vulvar trophism was clinically evident already 2 weeks after treatment; all symptoms were notably attenuated compared with the initial visit, as demonstrated by statistically significant reductions of the NRS scores (P = 0.003 for itching,P = 0.008 for pain on urination, andP < 0.001 for the other symptoms, Sign test). Moreover, all symptoms continued to improve over time. All patients reported a positive change in their quality of life and a resumption of sexual life.

Conclusion

The use of microfragmented adipose tissue in GSM is promising. Nevertheless, more studies will be fundamental to exclude a potential placebo effect and better understand the underlying molecular mechanism of action.
Comprehensive approach for identification of functional FCGR2C alleles resulting in protein expression as a determinant for predicting predisposition to autoimmunity
Authors: Lehmann Dorit , Unterthurner Sabine , Berg Verena , Hock Karin , Ponnuswamy Padmapriya , Malisauskas Mantas , Crowe Brian A. , Erguener Bekir , Bock Christoph , Hather Greg , Reipert Birgit M. , Bilic Ivan
Published: August 2021

The balance of activating and inhibitory signals from the low affinity Fc gamma receptors modulates immune responses triggered by IgG antibody‐immune complexes. In homeostasis, this leads to antigen clearance, while in autoimmune diseases to unwanted immune response. Besides the activating receptors FcɣRIIa, FcɣRIIIa, and the inhibitory FcɣRIIb receptor, a third activating receptor, FcɣRIIc, was shown to be expressed on several immune cell types, however, only in the presence of a functional FCGR2C‐ORF allele. FcɣRIIc expression is associated with autoimmune diseases such as idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, systemic lupus erythematosus or systemic sclerosis. Thus, the determination of the functional FCGR2C gene resulting in protein expression on immune cells becomes highly relevant, particularly in the context of unwanted immune responses through inadvertent FcɣRIIc activation by molecules targeting stimulation of the inhibitory receptor FcɣRIIb, currently pursued by several pharmaceutical companies. The high degree of homology within the FCGR2/3 gene cluster complicates development of an accurate method for identification of FcɣRIIc expression. Here we describe a comprehensive approach to characterize genetic status of the FCGR2C gene locus consisting of cDNA sequencing, SNaPshot genotyping and low‐coverage next‐generation sequencing. This might enable Mendelian randomization hypothesis testing across autoimmune diseases to personalize therapies and enhance treatment outcomes.
Differentiating Benign from Malignant Renal Tumors Using T2‐ and Diffusion‐Weighted Images: A Comparison of Deep Learning and Radiomics Models Versus Assessment from Radiologists
Authors: Xu Qing , Zhu QingQiang , Liu Hao , Chang LuFan , Duan ShaoFeng , Dou WeiQiang , Li SaiYang , Ye Jing
Published: August 2021

Background

Differentiating benign from malignant renal tumors is important for selection of the most effective treatment.

Purpose

To develop magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based deep learning (DL) models for differentiation of benign and malignant renal tumors and to compare their discrimination performance with the performance of radiomics models and assessment by radiologists.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 217 patients were randomly assigned to a training cohort (N = 173) or a testing cohort (N = 44).

Field Strength/Sequence

Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) and fast spin‐echo sequence T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI) at 3.0T.

Assessment

A radiologist manually labeled the region of interest (ROI) on each image. Three DL models using ResNet‐18 architecture and three radiomics models using random forest were developed using T2WI alone, DWI alone, and a combination of the two image sets to discriminate between benign and malignant renal tumors. The diagnostic performance of two radiologists was assessed based on professional experience. We also compared the performance of each model and the radiologists.

Statistical Tests

The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) was used to assess the performance of each model and the radiologists. P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.

Results

The AUC of the DL models based on T2WI, DWI, and the combination was 0.906, 0.846, and 0.925 in the testing cohorts, respectively. The AUC of the combination DL model was significantly better than that of the models based on individual sequences (0.925 > 0.906, 0.925 > 0.846). The AUC of the radiomics models based on T2WI, DWI, and the combination was 0.824, 0.742, and 0.826 in the testing cohorts, respectively. The AUC of two radiologists was 0.724 and 0.667 in the testing cohorts.

Conclusion

Thus, the MRI‐based DL model is useful for differentiating benign from malignant renal tumors in clinic, and the DL model based on T2WI + DWI had the best performance.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Operando sum‐frequency generation spectroscopy of high‐efficiency OLEDs for probing the charge carrier behavior
Authors: Miyamae Takayuki , Sato Tomoya
Published: August 2021

Operando analysis of organic devices is crucial for understanding the device operation mechanism and intrinsic degradation mechanism. Buried organic layers in OLEDs during operation have been investigated using electric‐field‐induced doubly resonant sum‐frequency generation (EFI‐DR‐SFG) and time‐resolved EFI‐DR‐SFG experiments. The time‐resolved EFI‐SFG technique allows us to observe the carrier transportation directly and non‐destructively. DC electric field leads to a significant increase in the SFG intensity produced by the charged carriers. Electric‐field‐induced SFG results clearly show that charge accumulation occurs at the interface between the light emitting layer and the electron‐blocking layer in the blue OLED and that this charge accumulation strongly contributes for the light emission. Particularly in the TTA process, high charge accumulation is effective in generating triplet excitons and improving the luminescence efficiency, but at the same time, it reduces the lifetime of the device.
Depression in the Pediatric Otolaryngology Clinic Setting
Authors: MacDonald Bridget V. , Wong Stephanie J. , Maxwell Benjamin , Carter Chelsea , Sanderson Kendall , Carvalho Daniela
Published: August 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

For most pediatric specialty clinics, mental health is not the primary presenting complaint, yet can portend unrecognized morbidity. We describe rates and risk factors of depression and suicidal ideation in adolescents seen at a pediatric specialty clinic and examine changes during COVID‐19.

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

Outpatient pediatric otolaryngology clinic encounters of patients aged 12–19 years at a tertiary academic medical center were identified from October 2018 to July 2020. Demographic characteristics, ICD‐10 primary diagnosis, Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)‐2 score, and PHQ‐9 score (if administered) were obtained. Multivariable regression examined risk factors for PHQ‐9 administration, PHQ‐9 scores ≥10, and suicidal ideation. Patient characteristics and PHQ scores were compared before and after March 23, 2020 (California COVID‐19 Stay‐at‐Home order).

Results

Three thousand six hundred nine encounters with PHQ‐2 data were identified. Of these, 223 (6.2%) scored ≥3 and underwent PHQ‐9 assessment, of which 121 (3.4% of 3,609) scored ≥10 on the PHQ‐9 and 53 (1.5%) endorsed suicidal ideation. Factors associated with PHQ‐9 administration were female gender (odds ratio [OR] 1.58, P = .001), obesity (OR 1.48, P = .043), and neck mass/neoplasm/cancer diagnosis (OR 1.99, P = .013). Female gender was also associated with suicidality (OR 2.47, P = .008). Comparison of pre‐COVID‐19 versus during COVID‐19 showed no differences in depression or suicidality. However, subgroup analysis revealed some significant findings.

Conclusions

We demonstrate substantial prevalence of positive depression screening and suicidal ideation among adolescent pediatric otolaryngology clinic encounters. Depression rates were similar to pre‐COVID‐19 and during COVID‐19, yet barriers to screening during this time were substantial. Pediatric specialty providers must remain vigilant for mental health issues in their patients.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 132:1104–1111, 2022
Declaration of conflict of interest in medical researchers: A cross‐sectional study from China
Authors: Yang Lili , Xu Siyun , Shao Jufang , Wang Panzhi , Wang Xianjun , Qi Qi , Yang Rongwang
Published: August 2021

Conflict of interest (COI) declaration policies are not commonplace in China and the level of awareness and reporting among Chinese researchers have not been fully investigated. This study sought to discover the presence of COI policies in high‐impact Chinese journals, the compliance of authors with these policies and the awareness of authors with the principles of COI and to compare these findings against comparable international journals. The study included review of publications and policies and a survey of Chinese researchers. It compared 14 Chinese journals and 16 international journals during 2018. Most Chinese journals have a COI policy, but only 0.6% of articles published in 2018 included a statement of potential COI. All international journals required COI statements in all articles, and 15.6% of Chinese articles declared a potential COI (of which most were financial COIs). However, this was lower than COI declarations from non‐Chinese authors (47.8%). When surveyed, 24% of researchers had potential COI in a submitted article, but only 4.2% declared a COI: most of the under‐declaration was due to lack of knowledge about COI, followed by concern that a COI would lead to rejection of their articles. The research shows that there is a knowledge and policy gap in China that needs to be rectified and that international journals can be used as a reference point for good practice.
The Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences: Optimal cut‐off scores for detecting individuals with a psychotic disorder
Authors: Jaya Edo S. , van Amelsvoort Therese , Bartels‐Velthuis Agna A. , Bruggeman Richard , Cahn Wiepke , de Haan Lieuwe , Kahn Rene S. , van Os Jim , Schirmbeck Frederike , Simons Claudia J. P. , Lincoln Tania M.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The need for a brief screening tool for psychosis is widely recognized. The Community Assessment of Psychic Experiences (CAPE) is a popular self‐report measure of psychosis, but a cut‐off score that can detect those most likely to fulfill diagnostic criteria for psychotic disorder is not established.

Methods

A case–control sample from the Genetic Risk and Outcome of Psychosis Project study (N = 1375, healthy individuals, n = 507, and individuals with a psychotic disorder, n = 868), was used to examine cut‐off scores of the CAPE with receiver operating curve analyses. We examined 27 possible cut‐off scores computed from a combination of scores from the frequency and distress scales of the various factors of the CAPE.

Results

The weighted severity positive symptom dimension was most optimal in detecting individuals with a psychotic disorder (>1.75 cut‐off; area under the curve = 0.88; sensitivity, 75%; specificity, 88%), which correctly identified 80% of the sample as cases or controls with a diagnostic odds ratio of 22.69.

Conclusions

The CAPE can be used as a first screening tool to detect individuals who are likely to fulfill criteria for a psychotic disorder. The >1.75 cut‐off of the weighted severity positive symptom dimension provides a better prediction than all alternatives tested so far.
Severe hyperglycemia following transition from octreotide to lanreotide in a patient with enterocutaneous fistula receiving parenteral nutrition
Authors: Rosen Abbie N. , Balazh Julia R. , Franck Andrew J.
Published: August 2021

Somatostatin analogues, suchas octreotide and lanreotide, are commonly used in the management of enterocutaneous fistula. We report a case of severe and prolonged hyperglycemia that occurred in a patient after receiving a one‐time dose of lanreotide, who had previously been stable on octreotide and did not have a history of diabetes mellitus. Management of the patient's hyperglycemia while receiving parenteral nutrition is described.
A key performance indicator‐relevant approach based on kernel entropy component regression model for industrial system
Authors: Sun Chengyuan , Kang Haobo , Ma Hongjun , Bai Hua
Published: August 2021

Key performance indicator (KPI)‐relevant fault detection method has been raised for decades to hugely increase the economic interest of modern industries. However, the typical data‐driven approaches like the kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) and the kernel entropy analysis (KECA) are inefficient to consider the influence taken by the fault factor on the KPI. Thus, in this work, an algorithm called the kernel entropy regression (KECR) is proposed to enhance the interpretability between the fault and the KPI. The proposed algorithm captures the information relevant to the KPI state in the subspace and rewords the decomposition of the KECA method. The angular structure of the KECR method achieves an accurate partition for process variables to hugely decrease false detection results. In the end, an industrial case is utilized to demonstrate the effectiveness of the KECR method.
The effects of temperature on compressive responses and failure behaviors of composite Y‐frame cores sandwich structure
Authors: Jiang Weimin , Yu Xiaofei , Zhou Junmeng , Liu Jiayi , Huang Wei
Published: August 2021

The temperature has an important effect on mechanical behaviors of composite Y‐frame cores sandwich structure. Therefore, the in‐plane compressive behaviors of this structure should be thoroughly studied before it is used in engineering structures. The in‐plane compressive tests for Y‐frame cores sandwich structure were carried out within the temperature ranged from −70°C to 200°C. The load–deformation curves, deformation modes, and failure load of sandwich structure at various temperatures were compared and discussed. The results revealed that the deformation modes, load–deformation curves, and failure load were closely associated with the testing temperature. The cryogenic temperature caused the increasing of the failure load of Y‐frame cores sandwich structure. However, the high temperature caused the degradation of the failure load of Y‐frame cores sandwich structure. The in‐plane compressive failure load increased from 11.78 to 14.82 kN as the testing temperature fell from 20°C to −70°C while the in‐plane compressive failure load decreased from 11.78 to 2.06 kN as the testing temperature increased from 20°C to 200°C. The theoretical expression was also given to forecast the compressive failure load, and the theoretical results would be compared with the experimental results.
The utilization of the search engine, Bolt, to decrease search time and increase peptide identifications in hydroxyl radical protein footprinting‐based workflows
Authors: Chea Emily E. , Prakash Amol , Jones Lisa M.
Published: August 2021

Hydroxyl radical protein footprinting (HRPF) utilizes hydroxyl radicals to covalently modify solvent exposed regions of proteins. When coupled with mass spectrometry, HRPF can provide insightful information on protein structural changes including inside cells. However, the complex mixture of proteins and modifications makes identification a complicated task. To search all of the HRPF‐induced modification combinations across the full proteome, requires substantial computational power and still can take days to search. To drastically decrease processing time and improve identifications, a novel cloud‐based search engine, Bolt, was used to search for HRPF modifications in comparison to a commonly used search engine, Sequest. A 35% increase in the identification of modified peptides was observed in Bolt compared to Sequest with a decrease in computation time.
The effect of first‐time 4‐wheeled walker use on the gait of younger and older adults
Authors: Omana Humberto A. , Madou Edward , Divine Alison , Wittich Walter , Hill Keith D. , Johnson Andrew M. , Holmes Jeffrey D. , Hunter Susan W.
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The 4‐wheeled walker is intended to enhance balance and gait for older adults. Yet, some research suggests that walking aids increase falls risk. An understanding of the influence of age with walker use on gait performance is required.

Objective

To examine the effect of initial 4‐wheeled walker use on spatiotemporal gait parameters between younger and older adults.

Design

Cross‐sectional, repeated‐measures.

Setting

Community‐dwelling.

Participants

Twenty‐five younger (age: 26.5 ± 4.1 years) and 24 older (age: 68.5 ± 10.5 years) adults participated. Younger adults were aged 18 to 35 years, whereas older adults were 50 years or older. Included were people not requiring the use of a walking aid, and those able to converse in English.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Gait velocity and stride time variability were recorded using accelerometers. Gait was examined under three conditions: unassisted walking; walking with a 4‐wheeled walker; and walking with a 4‐wheeled walker while completing a secondary task. Conditions were performed across two walking paths: straight and figure‐of‐8 Walk Test. Separate mixed‐methods analyses of variance (ANOVAs; within‐subject: condition/path; between‐subject: group) were used for statistical analyses.

Results

Velocity was lower when walking using a walker while completing a cognitive task (p < .001), in the figure‐of‐8 Walk Test (p < .001), and in older adults (p = .001). Stride time variability increased with walking path and condition difficulty (p < .001) for the straight path versus the figure‐of‐8 Walk Test.

Conclusions

Using a 4‐wheeled walker resulted in a slower and more inconsistent gait pattern across both age groups. Walking more complex configurations resulted in the prioritization of gait over the cognitive task while performing the dual‐task conditions. No evidence of an age‐related difference in the effect of initial walker use on gait was observed. Nonetheless, walkers are cognitively demanding and their introduction should warrant a clinical follow‐up.
Photoresponsive polymers with dangling triptycene units as efficient receptor for fullerene‐C60
Authors: Ansari Mosim , Mallik Samapika , Jana Achintya , Nayak Alpana , Das Neeladri
Published: August 2021

We report herein a new triptycene derivative (1) with an azo functional group. This molecule has been used as a monomer to yield two linear polymers (TAFPs) that have several triptycene units dangling from the linear polymer chain. TAFPs are soluble in organic solvents and are thermally stable. TAFPs can be cast into thin films. Further, these polymers are fluorescent with emission intensity increasing upon irradiation with ultraviolet light due to photoisomerization of the azo groups present in them. The fluorescence of TAFPs are quenched in the presence of C60, which supports their strong affinity for each other. Since both TAFP1 and TAFP2 form stable thin films of uniform thickness over large area coupled with their interaction with C60, these polymers may find potential applications in the development of optoelectronic devices or as molecular sensors in supramolecular chemistry.
Treatment of refractory mycetoma by radiotherapy: a case study and review
Authors: Gupta Anil , Sharma Daya Nand , Gupta Somesh , Sharma Seema , Dev Tanvi , Singh Suvesh , Mücke Ralph , Micke Oliver
Published: August 2021

Mycetoma is a localized chronic subcutaneous infection caused by fungi. It is clinically characterized by a triad of tumefaction, sinuses, and discharge containing typical grains. Eumycetoma, a subtype, is characterized by a low cure rate. Long‐term medication and surgical excision are required to treat the infection. Radiotherapy, a less used modality of treatment, may provide a good salvage option for refractory eumycetoma. Herein, we present a case and a review of the literature of refractory eumycetoma of the foot where radiotherapy was used as a salvage treatment. In the present case, a dose of 17.5 Gy in five fractions was delivered, and the response was assessed as per the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1, discharging grains status, and Dermatology Life Quality Index. The literature on the use of radiotherapy for mycetoma was found to be scanty. In the present case with radiotherapy, there was a partial radiological response, resolution of discharging grains, and improvement in the Dermatology Life Quality Index score. However, the benefit was short‐lived, but re‐irradiation and low‐dose radiotherapy resulted in sustained benefits until 15 months of follow up. The antiproliferative and anti‐inflammatory actions of radiotherapy can be exploited in the treatment of rare, medically difficult to treat mycetoma. This case report may serve as a basis for further evaluation.