bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic risk profiling of HCC recurrence after curative intent liver resection
Authors: Ivanics Tommy , Murillo Perez Carla Fiorella , Claasen Marco P. A. W. , Patel Madhukar S. , Morgenshtern Gabriela , Erdman Lauren , Shwaartz Chaya , Rajendran Luckshi , O’Kane Grainne M. , Hansen Bettina E. , Cleary Sean P , Sapisochin Gonzalo
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

Following liver resection (LR) for HCC, the likelihood of survival is dynamic, in that multiple recurrences and/or metastases are possible, each having variable impacts on outcomes. We sought to evaluate the natural progression, pattern, and timing of various disease states after LR for HCC using multistate modeling and to create a practical calculator to provide prognostic information for patients and clinicians.

Approach and Results

Adult patients undergoing LR for HCC between January 2000 and December 2018 were retrospectively identified at a single center. Multistate analysis modeled post‐LR tumor progression by describing transitions between distinct disease states. In this model, the states included surgery, intrahepatic recurrence (first, second, third, fourth, fifth), distant metastasis with or without intrahepatic recurrence, and death. Of the 486 patients included, 169 (34.8%) remained recurrence‐free, 205 (42.2%) developed intrahepatic recurrence, 80 (16.5%) developed distant metastasis, and 32 (7%) died. For an average patient having undergone LR, there was a 33.1% chance of remaining disease‐free, a 31.0% chance of at least one intrahepatic recurrence, a 16.3% chance of distant metastasis, and a 19.8% chance of death within the first 60 months post‐LR. The transition probability from surgery to first intrahepatic recurrence, without a subsequent state transition, increased from 3% (3 months) to 17.4% (30 months) and 17.2% (60 months). Factors that could modify these probabilities included tumor size, satellite lesions, and microvascular invasion. The online multistate model calculator can be found on https://multistatehcc.shinyapps.io/home/.

Conclusions

In contrast to standard single time‐to‐event estimates, multistate modeling provides more realistic prognostication of outcomes after LR for HCC by taking into account many postoperative disease states and transitions between them. Our multistate modeling calculator can provide meaningful data to guide the management of patients undergoing postoperative surveillance and therapy.
Retracted: Impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on routine vaccination coverage of children and adolescents: A systematic review
Authors: SeyedAlinaghi SeyedAhmad , Karimi Amirali , Mojdeganlou Hengameh , Alilou Sanam , Mirghaderi Seyed Peyman , Noori Tayebeh , Shamsabadi Ahmadreza , Dadras Omid , Vahedi Farzin , Mohammadi Parsa , Shojaei Alireza , Mahdiabadi Sara , Janfaza Nazanin , Keshavarzpoor Lonbar Abolfath , Mehraeen Esmaeil , Sabatier Jean‐Marc
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims

Scientists and healthcare workers have expressed their concerns on the impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on vaccination coverage in children and adolescents. Therefore, we aimed to systematically review the studies addressing this issue worldwide.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of relevant studies using the keywords on databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane on May 22, 2021. The identified records were imported into EndNote software and underwent a two‐phase screening process consisting of title/abstract and full‐text screenings against inclusion criteria. The data of the included studies were summarized into a table and the findings were analyzed in a systematic approach.

Results

From 26 eligible studies, 21 studies demonstrated decreased vaccination rates in the children during the COVID‐19 pandemic, while three studies found increased or no significant changes only in influenza vaccination. The two remaining studies from Brazil and Sweden also showed no significant changes in vaccination rates in the children during the pandemic.

Conclusion

Most of the reports worldwide reported a decline or delay in vaccination at the time of the COVID‐19 pandemic. A sustained catch‐up program seems to be necessary, especially in low‐income countries, to avoid any vaccine dose missing. Facilitating the vaccination process is recommended, such as decreasing the waiting time for vaccination at the health center, addressing the fear and concerns related to COVID infection for parents, and enhancing vaccine availability, and promoting access in remote areas. Countries should ensure proper vaccination to prevent future pandemics related to vaccine‐preventable diseases.
The risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke in survivors of head and neck cancer in Korea
Authors: Kang Eun Joo , Lee Yun‐Gyoo , Koo Minji , Lee Kyoungmin , Park In Hae , Kim Jung Sun , Choi Yoon Ji
Published: February 2022

Background

Head and neck cancer (HNCA) survivors have a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) or stroke because of sharing risk factors of disease. Therefore, we investigated the risk of CVD or stroke occurrence among HNCA survivors in Korea based on the Health Insurance Review and Assessment (HIRA) Service claims database.

Methods

We retrieved claims data of patients who were diagnosed with HNCA in 2014‐2015 using ICD‐10 code and followed up data until 2018. Patients with newly diagnosed with CVD or stroke after HNCA diagnosis during the follow‐up period were detected. We analyzed the characteristics of patients with HNCA who were subsequently diagnosed with CVD or stroke. In addition, the risk factors of CVD or stroke occurrence were investigated using Cox proportional hazard regression analysis.

Results

Among the 8288 patients with HNCA, 477 and 404 patients were diagnosed with new‐onset CVD and stroke, respectively. Patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), and hyperlipidemia had a 3.25‐fold higher risk of CVD comparing to patients without any underlying disease (95% confidence index [CI], 2.38‐4.45) Patients with three underlying diseases had a 2.92‐fold higher risk of stroke compared to patients without any underlying disease (95% CI 2.03‐4.21).

Conclusions

HNCA survivors with hypertension, DM, and hyperlipidemia should be cautious of the risks of CVD and stroke.
Dynamical Nature of Exciton‐Polariton Coupling in WS2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Sinha Sudarson Sekhar , Višić Bojana , Byregowda Archana , Yadgarov Lena
Published: February 2022

Semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides can be synthesized in a wide range of structures and geometries, including closed cage nanostructures, such as nanotubes or fullerene‐like nanoparticles (NSs). The latter is especially intriguing due to the stability, enhanced light‐matter interactions, and ability to sustain exciton‐polaritons (EPs) in ambient conditions, i. e., strong coupling of excitonic resonances to the optical cavity. Here we investigate the dynamics of EPs formation in WS2 NPs in the time domain using femtosecond transient extinction spectroscopy. We develop a gamut of analytical methods and models with time‐dependent parameters to extract the underlying non‐equilibrium dynamics of EPs formation. We find that the formation of EPs in WS2 NPs is not instantaneous but a gradual process that occurs only after several picoseconds. Specifically, for the short delay times, the light‐matter interaction is guided by excitonic absorption, whereas for the long delay times, the process is controlled by polaritonic scattering. We discover that the coupling strength is a time‐dependent entity and not a constant as is usually defined. Namely, there is a nonlinear coupling between excitonic and external modes and a notable transition from weak to strong coupling limit. Our results show that the time‐dependent phenomenological dynamical model quantitatively reproduces the nonlinear dynamical coupling as well as the effects of the pump fluence on the coupling strength.
Cell interactome in sarcopenia during aging
Authors: González‐Blanco Laura , Bermúdez Manuel , Bermejo‐Millo Juan C. , Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez José , Solano Juan J. , Antuña Eduardo , Menéndez‐Valle Iván , Caballero Beatriz , Vega‐Naredo Ignacio , Potes Yaiza , Coto‐Montes Ana
Published: February 2022

Background

The diversity between the muscle cellular interactome of dependent and independent elderly people is based on the interrelationships established between different cellular mechanisms, and alteration of this balance modulates cellular activity in muscle tissue with important functional implications.

Methods

Thirty patients (85 ± 8 years old, 23% female) scheduled to undergo hip fracture surgery participated in this study. During the surgical procedures, skeletal muscle tissue was obtained from the Vastus lateralis. Two groups of participants were studied based on their Barthel index: 15 functional‐independent individuals (100‐90) and 15 severely functional‐dependent individuals (40‐0). The expression of proteins from the most important cellular mechanisms was studied by western blot.

Results

Compared with independent elderly patients, dependent elderly showed an abrupt decrease in the capacity of protein synthesis; this decrease was only partially compensated for at the response to unfolded or misfolded proteins (UPR) level due to the increase in IRE1 (P < 0.001) and ATF6 (P < 0.05), which block autophagy, an essential mechanism for cell survival, by decreasing the expression of Beclin‐1, LC3, and p62 (P < 0.001) and the antioxidant response. This lead to increased oxidative damage to lipids (P < 0.001) and that damage was directly associated with the mitochondrial impairment induced by the significant decreases in the I, III, IV, and V mitochondrial complexes (P < 0.01), which drastically reduced the energy capacity of the cell. The essential cellular mechanisms were generally impaired and the triggering of apoptosis was induced, as shown by the significantly elevated levels of most proapoptotic proteins (P < 0.05) and caspase‐3/7 (P < 0.001) in dependents. The death of highly damaged cells is not detrimental to organs as long as the regenerative capacity remains unaltered, but in the dependent patients, this ability was also significantly altered, which was revealed by the reduction in the myogenic regulatory factors and satellite cell marker (P < 0.001), and the increase in myostatin (P < 0.01). Due to the severely disturbed cell interactome, the muscle contractile capacity showed significant damage.

Conclusions

Functionally dependent patients exhibited severe alterations in their cellular interactome at the muscle level. Cell apoptosis was caused by a decrease in successful protein synthesis, to which the cellular control systems did not respond adequately; autophagy was simultaneously blocked, the mitochondrion malfunctioned, and as the essential recovery mechanisms failed, these cells could not be replaced, resulting in the muscle being condemned to a loss of mass and functionality.
Chest computed tomography‐derived muscle mass and quality indicators, in‐hospital outcomes, and costs in older inpatients
Authors: Shen Yanjiao , Luo Li , Fu Hongbo , Xie Lingling , Zhang Wenyi , Lu Jing , Yang Ming
Published: February 2022

Background

Muscle mass and muscle quality assessed by computed tomography (CT) have been associated with poor prognosis in oncology and surgery patients, but the relevant evidence was limited in older patients. We hypothesized that muscle mass and muscle quality indicators derived from opportunistic chest CT images at the 12th thorax vertebra level (T12) could predict in‐hospital death, length of hospital stay (hospital LOS), and hospital costs among older patients in acute care wards.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study. Older patients admitted to the acute geriatric wards of a teaching hospital were continuously recruited. Chest CT images were analysed using SliceOmatic software. The skeletal muscle area, skeletal muscle radiodensity, and intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) at the T12 level were measured. Skeletal muscle index (SMI) was calculated using skeletal muscle area divided by body height squared.

Results

We included 1135 older patients with a median age of 80 years (interquartile range, 73 to 85 years), 498 (44%) were women, 148 (13%) patients died during hospitalization. The SMI and SMD were negatively correlated to age (ρ = −0.11, P < 0.001, ρ = −0.30, P < 0.001, respectively), whereas the IMAT was positively correlated to age (ρ = 0.27, P < 0.001). Compared with survivors, dead patients had significantly lower SMI in men (P < 0.001) but not in women (P = 0.760). After adjusting for sex and other potential confounders, the SMI [increased per 1 cm2/m2, odds ratio (OR) 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93 to 0.99] and SMD (increased per 1 Hounsfield unit, OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.90 to 0.96) were negatively and independently associated with in‐hospital death, whereas the IMAT (increased per 1 cm2, OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.14) was independently and positively associated with in‐hospital death. None of the SMI, SMD, or IMAT was significantly related to long hospital LOS or increased hospital costs.

Conclusions

Chest CT‐derived muscle mass indicator (T12 SMI) and muscle quality indicators (T12 SMD and T12 IMAT) may serve as prognostic factors for predicting in‐hospital death among older inpatients. Opportunistic chest CT images might be an overlooked resource for measuring muscle mass and muscle quality and for predicting short‐term prognosis in older inpatients.
Synthesis of hierarchical CoAPO‐5 catalysts in different fluoride medium and optimization of its catalytic oxidative desulfurization process
Authors: Ma Yongwei , Zhao Xiangxiang , Shao Hui , Yao Jianfeng
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Fluoride ions can form corresponding complexes with transition metal elements (Co, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, etc.), so it is easier to synthesize heteroatomic molecular sieves in a fluorine‐containing system than in a fluorine‐free system.

RESULTS

In this paper, a hierarchical CoAPO‐5 molecular sieve was synthesized in a fluorine system, and the effects of different fluorine resources on its synthesis were investigated. The CoAPO‐5 samples were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption and temperature‐programmed desorption of NH3.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that, compared with other fluorine resources, the sample D‐AFI‐1 synthesized with HF possessed more acid sites, which appeared to be more attractive for oxidative desulfurization. The central composite design of response surface methodology was applied to design experimental schemes employing D‐AFI‐1 as catalyst. The volume ratio of oxidant/fuel, extractant/fuel and the mass ratio catalyst/fuel were screened out as the significant factors after the investigation of single factors. The quadratic model of the three significant factors and desulfurization rate was established. On the basis of optimizing the reaction conditions, oxidant/fuel volumetric ratio, catalyst/fuel mass ratio and extractant/fuel were 0.07 mL mL−1, 0.01 g g−1 and 1.65 mL mL−1, respectively, the desulfurization rate was 85.0%, which was consistent with the predicted value of the model (83.7%). © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Outcomes of lung metastasis from pancreatic cancer: A nationwide multicenter analysis
Authors: Homma Yuki , Endo Itaru , Matsuyama Ryusei , Sho Masayuki , Mizuno Shugo , Seyama Yasuji , Hirano Satoshi , Aono Takashi , Kitami Chie , Morita Yoshifumi , Takeda Yutaka , Yoshida Kazuhiro , Tani Masaji , Kaiho Takashi , Yamamoto Yuzo , Aoki Hideki , Ogawa Masao , Niguma Takefumi , Mataki Yuko , Kawasaki Hiroshi , Baba Hideo , Yokomizo Hiroshi , Rikiyama Toshiki , Yamaue Hiroki , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: February 2022

Background

Although distant metastasis from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has a dismal prognosis, some single center studies reported that lung metastasis has a favorable prognosis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prognostic value of site‐specific metastasis after pancreatectomy for PDAC, with a focus on lung metastasis.

Methods

Data from 117 cases of lung metastasis after pancreatectomy were collected retrospectively from 23 institutions in Japan. To compare the sites of metastasis we also collected the data of 134 patients with liver only metastasis, 67 patients with peritoneal only metastasis and 121 patients with locoregional recurrence alone.

Results

In patients with lung only metastasis, the median time from recurrence to death (RTD) was 23.1 months, which was better in comparison to other sites of recurrence. In lung metastasis group, the patients who underwent pulmonary resection had better long‐term outcomes in comparison to those who did not. (RTD: 29.2 vs 15.2, P < .001). In the multivariate analysis, solitary metastasis (HR 5.03; 95% CI 1.195‐21.144, P = .022) and postoperative chemotherapy (HR 14.089; 95% CI 1.729‐114.77, P = .023) were identified as significant prognostic factors after lung resection.

Conclusions

Surgical resection is a favorable option for selected patients with a solitary lung metastasis and for whom adjuvant chemotherapy can be administrated.
Morphometric analyses of the vertebrae of Ambystoma (Tschudi, 1838) and the implications for identification of fossil salamanders
Authors: Ledesma David T. , Ayala Alissandra , Kemp Melissa E.
Published: February 2022

Ambystoma (Tschudi, 1838) represents a speciose clade of salamanders that are found across much of North America. Fossils referred to Ambystoma are reported from early Cenozoic deposits and are common in Quaternary fossil deposits. Most fossils identified as Ambystoma are isolated vertebrae. Both quantitative and qualitative characters were reported as being useful for identifying fossilized vertebrae of Ambystoma below the genus level. However, there is limited information on intraspecific variation in those characters and previous studies noted intracolumnar variation which affects the utility of those characters for fossil identification. A lack of understanding of variation in modern species of Ambystoma casts uncertainty on our ability to identify fossil vertebrae confidently. We aimed to document intraspecific and intracolumnar variation in vertebral morphology among species of Ambystoma and examine the implications for fossil identification. We assembled one of the largest skeletal data sets for Ambystoma and took linear measurements on 15 species. We used 2D geometric morphometric analyses to characterize atlantal shape variation in Ambystoma. We apply those morphometric data in a case study where we identify fossil vertebrae from Hall's Cave, a Quaternary fossil locality in central Texas. We found patterns of intraspecific and intracolumnar variation that have substantial implications for fossil identification. Classification accuracies for species and clades within Ambystoma varied considerably. Overall classification accuracies based on size‐adjusted measurements and 2D geometric morphometric landmarks were lower compared with classifications from non‐size adjusted linear measurements. We identified fossil vertebrae from our case study as likely belonging to the tiger salamander clade within Ambystoma, but found that some fossils with lower classification probabilities are of uncertain identity. We discuss biogeographic implications for our fossil identifications and comment on challenges and next steps for advancing our understanding of morphological variation in Ambystoma.
COVID‐19 pandemic and the effect of increased utilisation of mobile X‐ray examinations on radiation dose to radiographers
Authors: Yeung Phoebe , Pinson Jo‐Anne , Lawson Michael , Leong Christopher , Badawy Mohamed Khaldoun
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The use of ionising radiation results in occupational exposure to medical imaging professionals, requiring routine monitoring. This study aims to assess the effect of increased utilisation of mobile X‐ray units, mobile imaging of non‐routine body regions and radiographer work practice changes for impact on staff radiation dose during the early stages of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of general radiology departments across two metropolitan hospitals was performed. Personal radiation monitor exposure reports between January 2019 and December 2020 were analysed. Statistical analysis was conducted using a Mann–Whitney U test when comparing each quarter, from 2019 to 2020. Categorical data were compared using a Chi‐squared test.

Results

Mobile X‐ray use during the pandemic increased approximately 1.7‐fold, with the peak usage observed in September 2020. The mobile imaging rate per month of non‐routine body regions increased from approximately 6.0–7.8%. Reported doses marginally increased during Q2, Q3 and Q4 of 2020 (in comparison to 2019 data), though was not statistically significant (Q2: P = 0.13; Q3: P = 0.31 and Q4 P = 0.32). In Q1, doses marginally decreased and were not statistically significant (P = 0.22).

Conclusion

Increased utilisation and work practice changes had no significant effect on reported staff radiation dose. The average reported dose remained significantly lower than the occupational dose limits for radiation workers of 20 mSv.
Application of an improved k‐means clustering algorithm in power user grouping
Authors: Gang Wu , Dongdong Zhang , Shengrong Fan
Published: February 2022

The illegal act of stealing electricity has brought serious security risks to the operation of power transmission system. The electricity consumption law of power users has obvious characteristics, which can be classified by clustering method. However, the traditional k‐means clustering method has the characteristics of randomly selecting the initial cluster center, which leads to the instability of clustering results. Aiming at the shortcomings of traditional k‐means clustering algorithm, this paper proposes a density based k‐means clustering algorithm (Dk‐means clustering) to optimize the initial center selection. According to the characteristics of users' power load, the method of determining the number of clusters and the evaluation method of clustering effect are selected. Then, the traditional k‐means clustering algorithm and the improved Dk‐means clustering algorithm are used to analyze the power load data of a residential area, and six groups of characteristic curves are obtained. Based on the analysis of these curves, the power consumption characteristics of each group of users were evaluated. Finally, through the comparative analysis of Euclidean distance, Manhattan distance and correlation coefficient r, it is proved that Dk‐means algorithm has better clustering effect and is more accurate for the selection of suspicious power stealing users.
Identification and expression of bifunctional acid urea‐degrading enzyme/urethanase from Enterobacter sp. R‐SYB082 and its application in degradation of ethyl carbamate in Chinese rice wine (Huangjiu)
Authors: Zheng Huajun , Meng Kai , Liu Jun , Lin Zichen , Peng Qi , Xie Guangfa , Wu Peng , Elsheery Nabil Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Ethyl carbamate (EC) is a potential carcinogen existing in fermented foods such as Chinese rice wine (Huangjiu). Since urea is an important precursor of EC, the degradation of urea could be an effective way to reduce EC in foods.

RESULTS

In this study, an Enterobacter sp. R‐SYB082 with acid urea degradation characteristics was obtained through microbial screening. Further research isolated a new acid urea‐degrading enzyme from R‐SYB082 strain – ureidoglycolate amidohydrolase (UAH) – which could degrade EC directly. The cloning and expression of UAH in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) suggested that the activity of urea‐degrading enzyme reached 3560 U L−1, while urethanase activity reached 2883 U L−1 in the optimal fermentation condition. The enzyme had the dual ability of degrading substrate urea and product EC. The removal rate of EC in Chinese rice wine could reach 90.7%.

CONCLUSION

This study provided a new method for the integrated control of EC in Chinese rice wine and other fermented foods. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Acquiring identity and expression information from monocular face image
Authors: Tu Ziqi , Weng Dongdong , Liang Bin , Luo Le
Published: February 2022

In this paper, a flexible deep learning‐based framework is proposed that can extract expression and identity information from monocular images and can combine the extracted identity and expression from different images to generate new face models. In this framework, two encoders are used to extract expression and identity information, and three decoders are used to visualize the information by generating face models containing only expression, only identity, and fused expression and identity. By aligning the corresponding vertices of the parts with the same semantic on the face, an error evaluation method between face models with different topologies is proposed, which can more intuitively reflect the error distribution. The experimental results show that the proposed framework has higher accuracy than face component extraction by blendshape. The framework can be used for the facial expression generation of virtual humans, which is helpful for emotion transmission and language supplementation.
Prediction of Outcomes of Ultrasound‐Guided Saline Enema in the Treatment of Pediatric Intussusception
Authors: Zhang Min , Jin Linyuan , Tang Xianpeng , Zhou Xiaohui , Hu Qiang , Huang Shaobin , Yu Feng , Yao Zhiguang , Xiao Yaocheng
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Outcomes of ultrasound‐guided saline enema include successful treatment, unsuccessful treatment, or recurrence. This study aimed to investigate the value of ultrasonic parameters of the ileocecal region during hydrostatic reduction to predict enema outcomes.

Methods

Ultrasound images of patients diagnosed with ileocolic intussusception and treated with ultrasound‐guided saline enema at two different institutions between January 2019 and April 2021 were retrospectively analyzed to assess ileocecal‐valve diameter (ICVD), intussusceptum thickness (IT), and the ratio of IT to ICVD (I/I). Logistic regression analysis was used to explore correlations between ICVD, IT, I/I, and patient characteristics (sex, age, symptom duration, and enema outcome).

Results

Of 291 patients with ileocolic intussusception (207 boys; mean ICVD, 8.6 [SD: 0.1] mm; mean IT, 26 [SD: 0.2] mm; mean I/I, 3.0 [SD: 0.01]), 268 had first successful reduction; 23, first failed reduction; 7, final failed reduction; and 41, early recurrence. Significant risk factors for failed reduction included symptom duration >24 hours (odds ratio [OR] = 10, P = .012), ICVD ≤ 8.5 mm (OR = 8, P = .01), and I/I > 3.25 (OR = 16, P < .001). Significant risk factors for early recurrence post‐enema included age >1 year (OR = 10, P = .028), ICVD > 8.5 mm (OR = 4, P = .003), and I/I ≤ 2.95 (OR = 6, P < .001).

Conclusions

ICVD and IT measured during ultrasound‐guided hydrostatic reduction can predict enema outcomes. The mismatch between IT and ICVD is the primary cause of poor outcomes.
Rare and common manifestations of COVID‐19 in children
Authors: Colonna Cristiana , Restano Lucia , Monzani Nicola A. , Zussino Martina , Ponziani Alessandra , Cambiaghi Stefano , Cavalli Riccardo
Published: February 2022

Introduction

It has been almost 2 years since the first reports on cutaneous manifestations of COVID‐19. Those reported in children are different and include macular, papular, lichenoid, vesicular, urticarial, and vascular morphologies, among others. The prognosis of isolated cutaneous involvement in COVID‐19 in children is usually self‐limiting but the extreme variety of clinical presentations complicates the clinical approach.

Methods

Numerous reviews have been systematically drafted and edited giving the clinicians a future direction for skin presentations during pandemics.

Results and Discussion

Hereby we report the rare and common manifestations of COVID‐19 in children and question the recurrence phenomena and age‐related distribution of the eruptions.
The effect of septal deviation on postoperative quality of life in patients undergoing radiofrequency‐assisted turbinate reduction
Authors: Carmel Neiderman Narin N. , Eisenberg Netanela , Caspi Inbar , Halevy Nir , Shpigel Iris , Ziv Baran Tomer , Horowitz Gilad , Ringel Barak , Warshavsky Anton , Abergel Avraham
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Inferior turbinate hypertrophy (ITH) and nasal septum deviation are leading causes of chronic nasal obstruction. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of hypertrophic inferior turbinates is effective for improving quality of life (QOL). We aim to assess QOL among patients with nasal obstruction associated with ITH and major deviated nasal septum.

Methods

A prospective cohort study comparing the difference in improved QOL among patients with and without septal deviation following RFA treatment between March 2016 and June 2019. The patients formed two groups according to their grade of septal deviation. Patients participating filled in QOL questionnaires (Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 [SNOT‐22] and Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation [NOSE]) Pre‐ and 2 months postprocedure.

Results

All patients demonstrated QOL improvement with no significant difference between those with and those without any degree of deviated septum, as demonstrated by their responses to the SNOT‐22 questionnaire (p = .29), the NOSE questionnaire (p = .93), and the degree of nasal obstruction (question 22 in the SNOT‐22 questionnaire) (p = .14).

Conclusion

We conclude that septal deviation to certain degree does not preclude treatment of ITH with RFA nor does it negatively affect subjective improvement of the patient's QOL. Both those with and those without septal deviation will benefit similarly with regards to subjective QOL improvement.
Smart Diffraction Gratings Based on the Shape Memory Effect
Authors: Sun Xiang‐Chao , Zhang Zhi‐Peng , Sun Zhi‐Juan , Zheng Jia‐Xin , Liu Xue‐Qing , Xia Hong
Published: February 2022

The shape memory effect is the capability of a structure or a material that can be deformed into a certain temporary shape under external stimulus, and the shape will be fixed without the stimulus. The recovery process can be triggered by the same stimulus. The intelligent tunable device based on the shape memory effect has a wide range of applications in many fields. In the optical field, smart diffraction gratings can accomplish in situ optical diffractions according to requirements, meeting the high demand in the next generation of smart optical systems. However, it is essential to construct high‐precision grating structures based on shape memory materials. Here, a smart diffraction grating based on UV‐curable shape memory polymers (SMPs) via two‐beam interference is reported, with nano‐scale precision, excellent deformability and recovery ability, and adjustable spectroscopic performance. More importantly, based on the shape memory effect, grating structures that surpass the precision of the fabrication system can be obtained. The smart grating exhibits rapid deformation and recovery upon heating and long‐term storage capability, which facilitates them to be applied in optics, electronics, and integrated sensing.
Secondhand product quality disclosure strategy of the retailer under different supply chain structures
Authors: Dou Xiaole , Li Zenglu , Liu Chun
Published: February 2022

In a two‐stage supply chain comprising a manufacturer and a retailer selling secondhand products and new products, we incorporate the manufacturer's channel decisions to examine the retailer's quality disclosure strategy of secondhand products. The quality disclosure of secondhand products may or may not be implemented, but the direct channel is always introduced. Interestingly, the retailer withholds (discloses) information of secondhand products with sufficiently high quality when it is lower (higher) than consumers' acceptance of direct channel in dual‐channel structure. If the secondhand product quality is lower than consumers' direct channel acceptance, the quality is disclosed only when it is medium.
Suicide in the Black community renews discussions about MH access, supports
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2022

Sadness continues to permeate for many who are still reeling over the tragic loss in recent weeks of Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019, and Ian Alexander Jr., son of actress and director Regina King, both of whom died by suicide and presumably had so much to live for. Their loss has renewed conversations around mental health and suicide, particularly in the Black community.
MHA's new dashboard to provide critical response to MH crisis
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2022

Identifying current “hot spots” and where mental health support and resources are needed at state and county levels is the objective behind Mental Health America's (MHA's) first‐ever dashboard. The new tool, released Feb. 16, geographically maps the results of 2.6 million mental health screenings taken through the MHA Online Screening Program in 2020 and 2021.
New research examines tobacco‐cessation treatment
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2022

More deaths in the United States are attributed to cigarette smoking each year than to any other preventable cause. Approximately 34 million people and an estimated 14% of adults in the United States smoke cigarettes. If they stopped smoking, they could reduce their risk of tobacco‐related morbidity and mortality and potentially gain up to 10 years of life, say researchers of a new study published in the Feb. 8 issue of JAMA.
Third‐kind Chebyshev cardinal functions for variable‐order time fractional RLW‐Burgers equation
Authors: Heydari Mohammad Hossein , Razzaghi Mohsen
Published: February 2022

In this article, the Caputo type variable‐order fractional differentiation is utilized for defining a novel fractional form of the regularized long wave Burgers problem which arises in several physical applications. The third‐kind Chebyshev cardinal functions are generated and some matrix relationships related to them are derived. A numerical procedure dependent on these polynomial cardinal functions is developed for the introduced equation. This scheme converts the primary problem solving into finding an algebraic system solution with low computations using approximating the solution of the equation by the expressed cardinal functions. The accuracy of the presented procedure is investigated in some examples. The presented scheme is straightforward and powerful and can be adopted for many other nonlinear fractional problems.
On critical N‐Kirchhoff type equations involving Trudinger–Moser nonlinearity
Authors: Zhang Limin , Tang Xianhua , Zhang Ning
Published: February 2022

In the present paper, we deal with the existence of nontrivial solutions and Nehari‐type ground state solutions to the Kirchhoff type elliptic equations of the form:

where
is a smooth bounded domain,
is a Kirchhoff function, and f(x, s) has critical exponential growth on s which behaviors as
with α0 > 0. Based on a deep analysis and some detailed estimate, we can determine a fine upper bound for the minimax level under weaker assumption on
. Our results generalize and improve the ones in Chen et al. (2021) (Lemma 3.1) and Figueiredo and Severo (2016) (Theorems 1.3 and 1.4) for
and Goyal et al. (2016) (Theorem 1.3) for N ≥ 2.
Explicit computations of some spectral invariants of compact symmetric spaces of rank one
Authors: Hajli Mounir
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we propose a unified approach for the study of the heat functions of the compact symmetric spaces of rank one. One of the consequences of this study is to show that the spectral properties of any compact symmetric space of rank one can be determined by a given polynomial. We prove that the coefficients of these polynomials are related to the Stirling numbers of the first kind. Moreover, we show that these polynomials possess some combinatorial interpretations, generalizing some combinatorial properties of Bernoulli numbers.
Technical note: Proton beam dosimetry at ultra‐high dose rates (FLASH): Evaluation of GAFchromic™ (EBT3, EBT‐XD) and OrthoChromic (OC‐1) film performances
Authors: Villoing Daphnée , Koumeir Charbel , Bongrand Arthur , Guertin Arnaud , Haddad Ferid , Métivier Vincent , Poirier Freddy , Potiron Vincent , Servagent Noël , Supiot Stéphane , Delpon Grégory , Chiavassa Sophie
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The ARRONAX cyclotron facility offers the possibility to deliver proton beams from low to ultra‐high dose rates (UHDR). As a good control of the dosimetry is a prerequisite of UHDR experimentations, we evaluated in different conditions the usability and the dose rate dependency of several radiochromic films commonly used for dosimetry in radiotherapy.

Methods

We compared the dose rate dependency of three types of radiochromic films: GAFchromic™ EBT3 and GAFchromic™ EBT‐XD (Ashland Inc., Wayne, NJ, USA), and OrthoChromic OC‐1 (OrthoChrome Inc., Hillsborough, NJ, USA), after proton irradiations at various mean dose rates (0.25, 40, 1500, and 7500 Gy/s) and for 10 doses (2–130 Gy). We also evaluated the dose rate dependency of each film considering beam structures, from single pulse to multiple pulses with various frequencies.

Results

EBT3 and EBT‐XD films showed differences of response between conventional (0.25 Gy/s) and UHDR (7500 Gy/s) conditions, above 10 Gy. On the contrary, OC‐1 films did not present overall difference of response for doses except below 3 Gy. We observed an increase of the netOD with the mean dose rate for EBT3 and EBT‐XD films. OC‐1 films did not show any impact of the mean dose rate up to 7500 Gy/s, above 3 Gy. No difference was found based on the beam structure, for all three types of films.

Conclusions

EBT3 and EBT‐XD radiochromic films should be used with caution for the dosimetry of UHDR proton beams over 10 Gy. Their overresponse, which increases with mean dose rate and dose, could lead to non‐negligible overestimations of the absolute dose. OC‐1 films are dose rate independent up to 7500 Gy/s in proton beams. Films response is not impacted by the beam structure. A broader investigation of the usability of OC‐1 films in UHDR conditions should be conducted at intermediate and higher mean dose rates and other beam energies.
Experimental and numerical studies on low‐velocity impact damage of composite laminates toughened by nickel‐coated carbon fiber veil
Authors: Liu Hui , Qu Peng , Guo Yunli , Zhou Yong , Wan Guoshun , Jia Yuxi
Published: February 2022

The low‐velocity impact response of carbon fiber composite laminates toughened by nickel‐coated carbon fiber (NiCF) veil interleaves was investigated experimentally and numerically. The experimental results indicated that the impact resistance of laminates with a layer of NiCF veil of 34 g/m2inserted in the midplane was improved, especially in terms of increased peak impact force and residual compressive strength (by 16.15%), and reduced damage area (by 30.92%). The enhancement mechanisms were attributed to the breakage, pull‐out, and crack bridging of the NiCF veil, as well as the peeling of nickel coating, which enhanced the carbon fiber/resin interfacial adhesion. A numerical model based on continuum damage mechanics and cohesive zone model was developed and its validity was verified. The simulation results confirmed that NiCF veils reduced energy absorption by enhancing the interlaminar properties of laminates, thereby reducing impact damage. Moreover, laminates with higher areal density and more layers of NiCF veils had higher impact force and smaller damage area, and thus had better impact resistance.
The effective thermal conductivity of polymer composites filled with high conductive particles and the shell structure
Authors: Abbasov Hakim
Published: February 2022

The addition of fillers with high thermal properties to polymer matrices increases the thermal conductivity of the composites in comparison with pure polymers. In the literature, various models have been proposed for predicting the thermal conductivity of polymer composites, where, in order to agree with the experimental data, some control parameters are introduced, the physical meaning of which is sometimes in doubt. In the present paper, a new effective thermal conductivity model of polymers filled with highly conductive particles is proposed. According to this model, the structure of a polymer composite is represented as the sum of two different parts: a structure with uniformly dispersed in polymer and not in contact with each other filler particles, and a structure with randomly distributed polymer particles, completely covered by monolayers of aggregated filler particles (“shell structure”). The comparison shows good agreement between the results of the proposed model and experimental data, in contrast to the results of the Lichtenecker and Mamunya models. Based on the proposed model, the aggregation abilities of filler particles for some polymer composites have been determined.
Evaluating the feasibility of remotely administered curriculum‐based measurement for students with autism: A pilot study
Authors: Mire Sarah S. , Keller‐Margulis Milena A. , Izuno‐Garcia Amy K. , Jellinek Emily R. , Loría Garro Elías S.
Published: February 2022

Students with autism may struggle to develop the academic skills necessary for success in school and beyond. Understanding and improving academic skills performance requires appropriate measurement approaches. One such option that has been minimally studied with students with autism is curriculum‐based measurement (CBM). Coinciding with the need to study different approaches to academic skills measurement for students with autism was the global pandemic which forced a shift to remote service delivery with little warning. While some autistic students struggled with this shift, others thrived, raising questions about how to further support students with autism in virtual formats. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility of using remotely administered CBM for autistic students by studying both the practicality and acceptability of this approach. Five students with autism (Grades 2–5) participated in this pilot study, completing reading, math, and writing CBMs at three time points. Student behavior and assessor fidelity were collected to examine practicality; assessor ratings of usability provided insight regarding the acceptability of the approach. Results indicated that remotely administered CBM is feasible for some students with autism: all participants completed the study tasks with minimal behavioral difficulties, and assessor ratings of acceptability were high.
Light Polarization in Tunnel Junction Injected UV Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Duboz Jean-Yves , Fan Arcara Victor , Kessaci Cynthia , Vézian Stéphane , Damilano Benjamin
Published: February 2022

The polarization of the light emitted by an ultraviolet light‐emitting diode (LED) has a direct impact on the device performance: a transverse electric polarization of the emission is preferred for extraction from the surface of the diode grown along the c axis. While this is the case for most UV LEDs grown on AlN, this state of events could be called into question when a tunnel junction (TJ) is added to make up for the poor p doping in Al‐rich (Al,Ga)N and improve the hole injection. Indeed, nitride‐based TJs mainly inject holes with a Γ7 symmetry, which could lead to transverse magnetic polarization of the light emitted by the diode. We have experimentally investigated this important issue and delivered a clear answer to this question.
Theoretical Analysis of the Flower‐Shaped Pattern Distribution in Self‐Catalyzed GaN Nanorod
Authors: Fu Binxiao , Wang Lili , Xue Qi , Zhang Xu , Liu Yuhuai
Published: February 2022

The strain‐induced growth of self‐induced GaN nanorods (NRs) on the sapphire substrate is investigated experimentally. From cathodoluminescence (CL) results, it is noticed that the distributions of the flower‐shaped pattern are varied with the increment in NR height. Based on the experimental observation, a simulation model for NR formation is established, which is in good agreement with the experimental data. Then, the preferred nucleation position for adatom deposition in the NR growth process is theoretically analyzed. Finally, an equilibrium growth condition for the vapor–solid (VS) and vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) mechanism of GaN NR growth is proposed.
Magnetic Properties and Mössbauer Study of Perovskite LaFeO3 and LaFe0.5Cr0.5O3
Authors: Xia Puyue , Mo Jiajun , Chen Jiangbin , Liu Min , Xia Yanfang
Published: February 2022

Herein, a citric acid combustion method is used to prepare LaFeO3 (LFO) and LaFe0.5Cr0.5O3 (LFCO). Stable and distorted perovskite structures are detected by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of both samples. Due to the substitution of chromium ions, Fe–Fe couplings are wholly disrupted, thus indicating the transition from a sextet to a singlet at room temperature. The M versus T curve of LFO exhibits two anomalous peaks related to Fe–O–Fe superexchange interactions. However, a quite different behavior is observed in LFCO. It reveals the negative irreversibility below 239 K and becomes paramagnetic above 269 K. The field‐cooled (FC) curve of LFCO is also simulated using the Monte Carlo method with Heisenberg model. Exchange coupling and anisotropy constants, which indicate some system properties, are calculated by applying the particle swarm algorithm fitting. The Néel temperature of LFCO is determined to be 80 K.
Investigation of different alcoholic modifiers for the separation and determination of two isomers of dinitrotoluene (2,4 and 2,6) by ion mobility spectrometry
Authors: Hariri Mohammad , Jafari Mohammad T. , Jazan Elham
Published: February 2022

Some alcoholic modifier gases were applied to separate isomer peaks in ion mobility spectrometry (IMS). Different mechanisms have been investigated on the separation, such as collision cross‐section and analyte‐modifier cluster formation. In this regard, some parameters that affected the cluster formation, such as dipole moment, electron affinity, the position of functional groups, and the modifier structure, were evaluated. On the other hand, some effective experimental parameters, including cell temperature and the flow rates of the drift and modifier gases, were also optimized. The combination of dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction with thin‐film evaporation (DLLME‐TFE) was used as a sample preparation method for the extraction of 2,4‐dinitrotoluene (2,4‐DNT) and 2,6‐dinitrotoluene (2,6‐DNT) isomers (as the target analytes). Isobutanol was selected as the alcoholic modifier to separate the ion molecular peaks of these isomers. The limit of detection and the limit of quantification obtained were 15 and 50 μg L−1, and the linear dynamic range (50–700 μg L−1) with coefficient of determination of 0.9941 and 0.9914 were obtained for 2,4‐DNT and 2,6‐DNT, respectively. The intra‐ and inter‐day relative standard deviations were obtained between 3% and 5%. For validation of the method, determination of the isomers was accomplished for a red wastewater field sample, resulting in relative recovery values of about 96%.
Bayesian two‐stage design for phase II oncology trials with binary endpoint
Authors: Chen Lichang , Pan Jianhong , Wu Yanpeng , Wang Jingxian , Chen Fangyao , Zhao Jun , Chen Pingyan
Published: February 2022

In phase II oncology trials, two‐stage design allowing early stopping for futility and/or efficacy is frequently used. However, this design based on frequentist statistical approaches could not guarantee a high posterior probability of attending the pre‐specified clinically interesting rate from a Bayesian perspective. Here, we proposed a new Bayesian design enabling early terminating for efficacy as well as futility. In addition to the clinically uninteresting and interesting response rate, a prior distribution of response rate, the minimum posterior threshold probabilities and the lengths of the highest posterior density intervals were specified in the design. Finally, we defined the feasible design with the highest total effective predictive probability. We studied the properties of the proposed design and applied it to an oncology trial as an example. The proposed design ensured that the observed response rate fell within prespecified levels of posterior probability. The proposed design provides an alternative design to single‐arm two‐stage trials.