bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of complete blood count parameters with pancreatic beta‐cell function and insulin resistance in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Nah Eun‐Hee , Cho Seon , Park Hyeran , Kim Suyoung , Cho Han‐Ik
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Previous studies found controversial associations of CBC parameters with pancreatic beta‐cell function (BCF) and insulin resistance (IR). The aim of this was to determine the independent associations of CBC parameters with BCF and IR in prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

This study selected subjects who underwent health checkups at 16 health‐promotion centers in 13 Korean cities during 2021. The subjects comprised 1470 patients with normoglycemia, 1124 with prediabetes, and 396 with T2DM. BCF and IR were assessed using the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)‐β and HOMA‐IR, respectively. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine the correlation between CBC parameters and HOMA.

Results

While HOMA‐IR gradually increased according to red blood cell count quartiles (1.22, 1.40, 1.47, and 1.91, in the first, second, third, and fourth quartiles, respectively; p < 0.001), there was no correlation after adjusting for waist circumference (WC) and HbA1c. The red blood cell distribution width (RDW) was associated with HOMA‐β [coefficient (β) = 15.527, p = 0.002], but not with HOMA‐IR. White blood cells (WBCs) were associated with HOMA‐IR and HOMA‐β, which was stronger in HOMA‐β (β = 0.505 vs 15.171, p = 0.002) after adjusting for WC and HbA1c. The platelet count was correlated with HOMA‐IR and HOMA‐β, which only remained in HOMA‐β (β = 15.581, p = 0.002) after adjusting for WC and HbA1c.

Conclusion

RDW, WBC, and platelet counts were independently associated with only HOMA‐β in prediabetes and T2DM. This suggests that these CBC parameters could represent BCF in prediabetes and T2DM.
Development of six immune‐related lncRNA signature prognostic model for smoking‐positive lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhou Dajie , Wang Jing , Liu Xiangdong
Published: May 2022

Background

Smoking is one of the most hazardous risk factors for the development of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Many survival and prognosis‐related biomarkers were discovered using database mining. However, the precision of immune‐related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) predictions is insufficient. We identified a novel signature to improve the estimate of smoking‐related LUAD prognosis.

Methods

The Cancer Genome Atlas database (TCGA) was used to obtain the LUAD lncRNA expression profiles. The smoking‐related LUAD cohort was randomly split into discovery and validation cohorts. To determine the risk score, use the LASSO Cox regression technique on the prognostic immune‐related lncRNA. The risk signature has been developed.

Results

A total of 643 immune‐related lncRNAs were identified as potential candidates for a risk signature. Finally, six immune‐related lncRNAs (AL359915.2, AP000695.1, HSPC324, TGFB2‐AS1, AC026355.1, and AC002128.2) were identified and used to carry out risk signature, which showed a close association with overall survival in the discovery cohort. We classified patients as high risk or low risk based on a median risk score of 1.0783. In the discovery cohort, overall survival was marginally longer in the low‐risk group than in the high‐risk category (p = 2.28e08). The area under the curves (AUC) for 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year survival was 0.67, 0.7, and 0.82, respectively. Furthermore, we successfully validated and combined cohorts using this risk profile. We discovered a strong positive connection between HSPC324 and VIPR1 as a possible novel biomarker for smoking‐related LUAD development in our study.

Conclusions

Our research has established a six immune‐lncRNA signature that may be used to predict the prognosis of smoking‐related LUAD with great accuracy.
More than a muscle: How self‐control motivation, depletion, and self‐regulation strategies impact task performance
Authors: Wehrt Wilken , Casper Anne , Sonnentag Sabine
Published: May 2022

When conceptualizing work performance as requiring self‐control, scholars often employ a resource‐depletion perspective. However, this perspective neglects the role of self‐control motivation and self‐regulation strategies. In this diary study, we examine self‐control motivation (viz. motivation to control impulses) and depletion at the beginning of work and at midday as predictors of afternoon task performance. Additionally, we investigate morning aversive tasks as an antecedent of increased depletion and decreased self‐control motivation. Further, we examine the role of self‐regulation strategies (organizing, meaning‐related strategies, and self‐reward) for maintaining and improving performance when depleted or low in self‐control motivation. Data from a 2‐week diary study with three daily measurements (N = 135 employees; n = 991 days) were analyzed. Multilevel path modeling showed that self‐control motivation at the beginning of work and depletion at midday predicted afternoon task performance. We found that self‐reward in the afternoon counteracts the negative relationship between depletion and task performance. Further, we found an indirect effect from morning aversive tasks on task performance via depletion at noon buffered by afternoon self‐reward. Organizing and meaning in the afternoon were positively related to afternoon task performance. Findings suggest that self‐control motivation is important for task performance, in addition to low depletion. Moreover, results highlight that self‐regulation strategies are beneficial for task performance.
Mucosal Melanoma of the Oral Cavity: What is the Role of Elective Neck Dissection?
Authors: Haimowitz Sean , Cohen David A. , Dhanda Aatin , Barron Kendyl , Povolotskiy Roman , Roden Dylan
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare malignancy that can present in the head and neck (H&N). The Oral cavity is the second most common primary site in the H&N after sinonasal mucosa. This study investigates the impact of demographic and clinical factors on survival in oral cavity MM. Further, it investigates the outcomes and utility of elective neck dissections (END) in the management of oral MM.

Methods

The National Cancer Database was used to evaluate 432 patients with oral cavity MM from 2004 to 2016. Kaplan‐Meir and Cox regression analyses were used to determine variables associated with survival.

Results

The mean age was 64.0 ± 16.0 years. Most patients were white (85.1%) and male (60.0%). Gingiva (37.6%) and hard palate (36.1%) were the most common primary subsites in the oral cavity. Five‐year overall survival was 31.0%. Age (Hazards Ratio [95% Confidence Interval], 1.03 [1.01–1.06]), N‐stage (1.94 [1.10–3.42]), M‐stage (10.13 [3.33–30.86]), male sex (1.79 [1.06–3.03]), and African‐American race (2.63 [1.14–6.11]) were significantly associated with worse survival. 199 patients (46.9%) underwent neck dissection including 118 with lymph node yield (LNY) ≥ 18. The rate of occult nodal positivity was 45.4% for LNY ≥ 18 and 28.3% for LNY ≥ 1. ENDs were not associated with improved outcomes. However, occult lymph node involvement was associated with worse overall survival (p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Oral cavity MM has a poor prognosis. Lymph node involvement, distant metastasis, age, race, and male sex are associated with worse outcomes. Performing an END did not improve survival. However, END may have a prognostic role and help select patients for treatment intensification.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:317–326, 2023
Comparison of Adult and Pediatric Cochlear Implant Wound Complications: AMeta‐Analysis
Authors: Ekman Brady , Laureano Jack , Balasuriya Beverly , Mahairas Anthony , Bush Matthew L.
Published: May 2022

Objective

To compare age‐related differences in wound complications following cochlear implantation (CI).

Methods

We performed a systematic review of PubMed, Cochrane Database, and Web of Science databases to identify original research evaluating the patient‐level factors (demographics and medical history) associated with wound complications following CI. Outcomes were expressed as relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals using the inverse variance method. Studies without comparison groups were described qualitatively.

Results

Thirty‐eight studies representing 21,838 cochlear implantations were included. The rate of wound complications ranges from 0% to 22%. Patient age (adult versus pediatric) was the only factor with comparison groups appropriate for meta‐analysis. The 10 studies (n = 9547 CI's) included in the meta‐analysis demonstrated that adults had a higher incidence of overall wound complications (2.94%) than in children (2.44%) (RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.01–1.69). Adults had a higher incidence of general/unclassified wound complications (2.07%) than in children (1.34%) (RR 1.68, 95% CI 1.12–2.52). There was no difference between adults and children for specific complications such as hematoma, infection, or seroma. Elderly patients (over age 75) have wound complication rates that range from 1% to 4%. No studies contained comparison groups regarding other patient‐level factors and CI wound complications.

Conclusion

CI wound complication rates reported in the literature are low; however, adults have a higher risk of these complications than pediatric patients. The reported complication rate in elderly adults is low. There is a gap in CI research in consistently reporting wound complications and rigorous research investigating the impact of patient‐level factors and wound complications.

Level of Evidence

NALaryngoscope, 133:218–226, 2023
Recent evolution of glaciers in the Cocuy‐Güican Mountains (Colombian Andes) and the hydrological implications
Authors: López‐Moreno Juan Ignacio , Rojas‐Heredia Francisco , Ceballos Jorge Luis , Morán‐Tejeda Enrique , Alonso‐Gonzalez Esteban , Vidaller Ixeia , Deschamps‐Berger Cesar , Revuelto Jesús
Published: May 2022

This study extends knowledge of the evolution of glacier shrinkage in the Cocuy‐Güican Mountains since the maximum glacier extent of the Little Ice Age (LIA). Mass balance data for the Ritacuba Glacier since 2009 were acquired and compared with available data for the Conejeras Glacier (Los Nevados National Park). This study also investigated the hydrological significance of Colombian glaciers, which is still largely unknown because the available information is very limited. Glaciers in the Cocuy‐Güican Mountains covered 13.2 km2 in 2019 compared with 127.8 km2 during the maximum LIA, representing a shrinkage of 89.7%. Analysis of glacier cover observations made in 1955, 1994, 2010, and 2019 revealed that the rate of ice loss was greatest from 1994 to 2010 (0.59 km2 yr−1), and was then almost halved from 2010 to 2019 (0.34 km2 yr−1). This slowing of glacier retreat is consistent with the moderate negative mass balance measured for 2009–2019, and an accumulated loss of 1766 mm w.e. (mm water equivalent). The progressive confinement of glaciers to higher elevations, ice accumulation in topographic locations providing shelter from solar radiation, and an absence of recent marked climatic anomalies could explain why the Cocuy‐Güican glaciers have temporally reached a near equilibrium state conditions. This contrasts with the Conejeras Glacier, where 47,000 mm w.e. has been lost in the same period. The available data on runoff and isotope tracers of streamflow and precipitation suggest that precipitation rather than glacier melt water exerts primary control over the hydrological variability at high elevation sites.
Implementation of TG‐218 for patient‐specific quality assurance tolerance and action limits determination: Gamma passing rate evaluation using 3DVH software
Authors: Stasinou Despoina , Patatoukas George , Kollaros Nikos , Diamantopoulos Stefanos , Kypraiou Efrosyni , Kougioumtzopoulou Andromachi , Kouloulias Vasilios , Efstathopoulos Efstathios , Platoni Kalliopi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To determine the tolerance limit (TL) and action limit (AL) of gamma passing rates (%GP) for volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) patient‐specific quality assurance (PSQA) according to the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) Task Group (TG)‐218 recommendations, and to comparatively evaluate the clinical relevance of 2D %GP and 3D %GP.

Methods

PSQA was performed for 100 head and neck (H&N) and 73 prostate cancer VMAT treatment plans. Measurements were acquired using a cylindrical water equivalent phantom, hollow in the center, allowing measurements with homogeneous or heterogeneous inserts. The LINAC‐delivered dose distributions were compared to those calculated from the treatment planning system through the gamma index. TL and AL were determined through the computation of two‐dimensional (2D) %GP using the recommended acceptance criteria. Dose–volume histograms were reconstructed from the measurements using a commercially available software to detect the dosimetric errors (%DE) between the compared dose distributions. Utilizing the estimated dose on the patient anatomy, structure‐specific %GP (3D %GP) were calculated. The 3D %GP were compared to the 2D %GP ones based on their correlation with the %DE. Each metric's sensitivity was determined through receiver operator characteristic analysis.

Results

TL and AL were in concordance with the universal ones, regarding the prostate cancer cases, but were lower for the H&N cases. Evaluation of %DE did not deem the plans unacceptable. The 2D %GP and the 3D %GP did not differ significantly regarding their correlation with %DE. For prostate plans, %GP sensitivity was higher than for H&N cases.

Conclusions

Determination of institutional‐specific TL and AL allows the monitoring of the PSQA procedure, yet for plans close to the limits, clinically relevant metrics should be used before they are deemed unacceptable for the process to be of higher sensitivity and efficiency.
Prioritisation of patients awaiting hip and knee arthroplasty: Lower pre‐operative EQ‐5D is associated with greater improvement in quality of life and joint function
Authors: Farrow Luke , Redmore James , Talukdar Partha , Clement Nick , Ashcroft George P.
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic has led to unprecedented delays for those awaiting elective hip and knee arthroplasty. Current demand far exceeds available resource, and therefore it is integral that healthcare resource is fairly rationed to those who need it most. We therefore set out to determine if pre‐operative health‐related quality of life assessment (HRQoL) could be used to triage arthroplasty waiting lists.

Methods

Data regarding demographics, perioperative variables and patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) (pre‐operative and 1‐year post‐operative EuroQOL five dimension (EQ‐5D‐3L) and Oxford hip and knee scores (OHS/OKS) were retrospectively extracted from electronic patient health records at a large university teaching hospital. Patients were split into two equal groups based on pre‐operative EQ‐5D TTO scores and compared (Group1 [worse HRQoL] = −0.239 to 0.487; Group2 [better HRQoL] = 0.516–1 [best]).

Results

513 patients were included. Patients in Group1 had significantly greater improvement in post‐operative EQ‐5D‐3L scores compared to Group2 (Median 0.67 vs. 0.19; p < 0.0001), as well as greater improvement in OHS/OKS (Mean 22.4 vs. 16.4; p < 0.0001). Those in Group2 were significantly less likely to achieve the EQ‐5D‐3L minimum clinically important difference (MCID) attainment (OR 0.13, 95%CI 0.07–0.23; p < 0.0001) with a trend towards lower OHS/OKS MCID attainment (OR 0.66, 95%CI 0.37–1.19; p = 0.168). There was no clinically significant difference in length of stay (Median 3‐days both groups), and no statistically significant difference in adverse events (30 days and 1 year readmission/reoperation).

Conclusions

A pre‐operative EQ‐5D‐3L cut‐off of ≤0.487 for hip and knee arthroplasty prioritisation may help to maximise clinical utility and cost‐effectiveness in a limited resource setting post COVID‐19.
Outcomes and prognostic variables of extracranial germ cell tumors in children and adolescents treated over a decade: A developing world perspective
Authors: Ramanathan Subramaniam , Prasad Maya , Vora Tushar , Parambil Badira C. , Kembhavi Seema , Ramadwar Mukta , Khanna Nehal , Laskar Siddhartha , Kurkure Purna , Qureshi Sajid , Banavali Shripad , Chinnaswamy Girish
Published: May 2022

Background

The purpose of this single‐center study was to analyze the outcomes of extracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs) in children treated on a multimodality regimen.

Methods

Retrospective study of children (<18 years) with a histopathologically confirmed diagnosis of extracranial GCT over a period of 10 years (January 2009 to December 2018) treated on a uniform institution‐based protocol consisting of both cisplatin‐ and carboplatin‐based regimens. All completely excised teratomas and stage I gonadal tumors received no further therapy (low risk [LR]); stage IV ovarian, stage III–IV extragonadal GCTs received six cycles of chemotherapy (high risk [HR]), and the remaining received four cycles of chemotherapy (intermediate risk [IR]).

Results

A total of 297 children were treated with a female:male ratio of 1.72:1 and median age of 4 years. Forty‐three children had pure teratomas. Gonadal GCTs (N = 180) were more common than extragonadal GCTs (N = 117) with ovary as primary site in 128 children (43%) and sacrococcygeal site being the commonest extragonadal location (N = 41; 14%). LR, IR, and HR disease were noted in 60 (20.2%), 125 (42%), and 112 (37.8%) patients, respectively. Three‐fourths of ovarian tumors and half of testicular tumors operated prior to presentation needed upstaging. Forty‐one patients relapsed and 43 children expired (disease‐related: 33; toxic deaths: 9; unknown: 1). The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS)/overall survival (OS) of malignant GCT (n = 254) was 72.50%/82.70%, respectively, with gonadal site (p = .001), LR and IR (p = .001) and nonmetastatic disease (p = .001) being favorable prognostic variables.

Conclusions

The LR and IR GCTs in our cohort had an excellent outcome. A significant proportion of IR gonadal GCTs can be spared of systemic chemotherapy by adhering to strict surgical guidelines. In HR GCTs however, intensifying therapies to improve outcomes must be balanced against the risk of cumulative toxicity, more so in a resource‐limited setting.
A High‐Performance Sound Insulation Component for Filter Capacitors Based on Coiled‐up Acoustic Metamaterials
Authors: Lin Qinhao , Di Guoqing
Published: May 2022

In the light of the spectrum characteristics of filter capacitor noise, a high‐performance sound insulation component (HSIC) based on coiled‐up acoustic metamaterials is developed. By efficiently absorbing harmonic components whose acoustic energy is predominant, HSIC can insulate the middle‐ and low‐frequency noise radiated by filter capacitors significantly. Simulated results show that under the excitation of a normal incident sound wave, the sound transmission loss of HSIC is 8.0, 7.0, 6.9, and 4.3 dB higher than that of a homogeneous panel with same area density (HPSAD) at the frequencies of 400, 500, 600, and 700 Hz, respectively. The transmission loss of HSIC for filter capacitor noise is 6.4 dB(A) higher than that of HPSAD. Experimental results show that under the excitation of a diffuse sound field, HSIC still has an excellent sound insulation performance and the transmission loss for filter capacitor noise can increase by 4.5 dB(A). Furthermore, an impedance analysis and a complex frequency plane analysis are conducted to elucidate the sound insulation and absorption mechanism of HSIC.
Characterization of Ultrathin FDSOI Stacks Using Low‐Field Mobility
Authors: Mchedlidze Teimuraz , Schmid Alexander , Heitmann Johannes
Published: May 2022

Herein, a method for the electrical characterization of a fully depleted silicon‐on‐insulator (FDSOI) high‐k dielectric‐metal‐gate stack is proposed. The method is based on assessing low‐field mobility in FDSOI field‐effect transistor (FET) from current–voltage measurements at various temperatures in the gate voltage range up to strong inversion. In addition to assessing the value of the low‐field mobility for the stack itself, it allows specifying the impact of various carrier‐scattering mechanisms on the total stack mobility. Further, the application of double‐gate operation in the optimal coupling mode for the FET allows analysis of the impact of the gate interfaces on mobility. The method can be used in the monitoring of stack quality and in the design and development of stack fabrication processes.
Microstructure and Composition Comparison of Ti‐ and Ta‐Doped Nb3Al Superconducting Wires Fabricated by RHQT Process
Authors: Chen Xiaoying , Li Tingting , Li Fangquan , Tang Xuan , Liu Lian , Chen Yongliang , Sun Xiaguang , Liu Jianwei , Yan Guo , Feng Yong , Zhang Yong , Zhao Yong , Yu Zhou
Published: May 2022

Herein, the microstructure and composition of the Ti‐ and Ta‐doped Nb3Al superconductor fabricated by rapid heating, quenching, and transformation (RHQT) process are compared. After rapid heating and quenching (RHQ) process, body‐centered cubic (bcc) phase is formed in all the wires, showing dark stripe and bright contrast morphology in the backscattered electron (BSE) images. After transformation heat‐treatment, all wires consist of A15 phase and show the same morphology as that of the quenched samples. Near‐stoichiometric composition is shown in 3 at% Ti‐ and Ta‐doped Nb3Al samples, but when doping amount is 10 at%, Ti‐doped sample has constant Nb content of 67 at% and Ta‐doped sample has Al + Ta content of 25 at%. Superconducting properties of both 3 at% Ti‐ and Ta‐doped Nb3Al samples are comparable and much superior than that of 10 at% doped samples, including critical temperature (Tc), critical current density (Jc), and irreversible field (Birr). Though 10 at% Ta‐doped Nb3Al has higher Tc than 10 at% Ti‐doped sample, it presents wider ΔTc value and lower Jc performance. When increasing the measurement temperature from 8 to 10 K, the decay ratio of Birr value for Ti‐doped Nb3Al superconductor follows the scaling law; however, the Ta‐doped samples are not the case.
Sampled‐data output feedback stabilization for a class of upper‐triangular nonlinear systems with input delay
Authors: Mao Jun , Xiang Zhengrong , Huang Shipei , Xiong Jing‐jing
Published: May 2022

This article focuses on the sampled‐data output feedback stabilization for a class of upper‐triangular nonlinear systems with input delay and ‐normal structure, a reduced‐order observer with the detected sampled output measurement is constructed to evaluate the unavailable states of the considered system, and the backstepping method with adding a power integral technique are adopted to construct the sampled‐data output feedback stabilizer. By selecting a suitable Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, we can demonstrate that the adverse effects caused by the uncertain input delay can be effectively constrained, and the resulting closed‐loop system with appropriate design constants and allowable sampling period can reach globally stable. Finally, two simulation examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Finite‐time event‐triggered bumpless transfer control for switched systems
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Xinying , Zhao Ying , Chen Yuqing , Li Wenqing
Published: May 2022

This study centers on the issue of finite‐time event‐triggered bumpless transfer (BT) control of switched systems. The aim is to suppress the undesirable control jumps at both switching and triggering time, and guarantee the finite‐time stability of switched systems. First, the property of BT is described from its original intention. Then, by co‐design of an improved switching function, an event‐triggered strategy combined with a series of controllers to achieve this objective. Also, the Zeno behavior is excluded. Further, a criterion to guarantee the BT property and the finite‐time stability under event‐triggered mechanism is established. Finally, a turbofan engine control system is taken as an example to testify the validity of the presented control scheme.
Predicting invasive signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) spread using a traditional survey and river network simulation
Authors: Larson Courtney E. , Bo Tiziano , Candiotto Alessandro , Fenoglio Stefano , Doretto Alberto
Published: May 2022

Rivers are among the most vulnerable ecosystems to biological invasions. After introduction, predicting the timing and magnitude of population growth and range expansion is critical to decision making on where management tactics will be most efficient. Yet, management is often hindered by the lack of knowledge on species‐specific attributes and the spatially complex structure of river networks that influences connectivity between sites. We analysed the population structure and predicted the range expansion of signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus), an invasive species in North‐western Italy which was first recorded in the Valla Stream in 2009 and then spread to adjacent rivers including Erro Stream in 2020. A total of 1,284 individual P. leniusculus crayfish were collected in the Valla Stream. No significant difference was found in density or body condition along a downstream gradient for different sex and maturity classes. These empirical data were combined with the available scientific literature to obtain key life‐history information for P. leniusculus, including carrying capacity, downstream versus upstream dispersion and proliferation rate. We used the OCNet R package to simulate the Erro Stream network and applied a meta‐population model to predict the range expansion of this species over time. Results indicate P. leniusculus may completely invade the Erro Stream network in 30–40 years, depending on the proliferation rate and without additional introductions. These findings represent one of the first attempts to use optimal channel networks simulation in R to predict the meta‐population dynamics of aquatic invasive species, a potential key tool to prevent invasive species spread.
The Risk of Subsequent Invasive Melanoma after a Primary in Situ or Invasive Melanoma in a High Incidence Country (New Zealand)
Authors: Win Myint Thu Thu , Selak Vanessa , Elwood Mark
Published: May 2022

Background

Patients with invasive melanoma are at increased risk of developing subsequent invasive melanoma, but the risks for those with primary in situ melanoma are unclear.

Objectives

To assess and compare the cumulative risk of subsequent invasive melanoma after primary invasive or in situ melanoma. To estimate the standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of subsequent invasive melanoma compared to population incidence in both cohorts.

Methods

Patients with a first diagnosis of melanoma (invasive or in situ) between 2001 and 2017 were identified from the New Zealand national cancer registry, and any subsequent invasive melanoma during follow-up to the end of 2017 identified. Cumulative risk of subsequent invasive melanoma was estimated by Kaplan–Meier analysis separately for primary invasive and in situ cohorts. Risk of subsequent invasive melanoma was assessed using Cox proportional hazard models. SIR was assessed, allowing for age, sex, ethnicity, year of diagnosis and follow up time.

Results

Among 33 284 primary invasive and 27 978 primary in situ melanoma patients, median follow up time was 5.5 and 5.7 years, respectively. A subsequent invasive melanoma developed in 1777 (5%) of the invasive and 1469 (5%) of the in situ cohort, with the same median interval (2.5 years) from initial to first subsequent lesion in both cohorts. The cumulative incidence of subsequent invasive melanoma at 5 years was similar in the two cohorts (invasive 4.2%, in situ 3.8%); the cumulative incidence increased linearly over time in both cohorts. The risk of subsequent invasive melanoma was marginally higher for primary invasive compared to in situ melanoma after adjustment for age, sex, ethnicity and body site of the initial lesion (hazard ratio 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21). Compared to population incidence, the SIR of invasive melanoma was 4.6 (95% CI 4.3–4.9) for the primary invasive and 4 (95% CI 3.7–4.2) for the primary in situ melanoma cohorts.

Conclusions

The risk of subsequent invasive melanoma is similar whether patients present with in situ or invasive melanoma. Thus follow-up surveillance for new lesions should be similar, although patients with invasive melanoma require more surveillance for recurrence.
CoP Nanoparticle Confined in P, N Co‐Doped Porous Carbon Anchored on P‐Doped Carbonized Wood Fibers with Tailored Electronic Structure for Efficient Urea Electro‐Oxidation
Authors: Kang Jingfei , Yang Fan , Sheng Can , Xu Han , Wang Jiayi , Qing Yan , Wu Yiqiang , Lu Xihong
Published: May 2022

Electronic structure optimization and architecture modulation are widely regarded as rational strategies to enhance the electrocatalysts catalytic performance. Herein, a hybridization of ZIF‐67‐derived CoP nanoparticles embedded in P, N co‐doped carbon matrix (PNC) and anchored on P‐doped carbonized wood fibers (PCWF) is constructed using a simple simultaneous phosphorization and carbonization strategy. Benefiting from the optimized surface/interface electronic structures, abundant exposed active sites, and outstanding conductivity, the CoP@PNC/PCWF can drive the urea oxidation reaction (UOR) with greater activity and better stability than most recently reported electrocatalysts, in which a potential as low as 1.32 V (vs reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE) is needed to reach 50 mA cm‐2 and shows excellent durability. Furthermore, for overall urea splitting, using the CoP@PNC/PCWF electrocatalyst as the anode and commercial Pt/C supported on nickel foam as the cathode, an ultralow cell voltage of 1.50 V (vs RHE) is expected to achieve the 50 mA cm‐2 and operate continuously for more than 50 h at 20 mA cm‐2. The reported strategy may shed light on the use of renewable resources to design and synthesize high‐performance non‐Ni‐based phosphides UOR electrocatalysts for energy‐saving H2 production.
CNT‐Strung LiMn2O4 for Lithium Extraction with High Selectivity and Stability
Authors: Shang Xiaohong , Liu Jianyun , Hu Bin , Nie Pengfei , Yang Jianmao , Zhang Boshuang , Wang Yiwen , Zhan Fei , Qiu Jieshan
Published: May 2022

LiMn2O4 is of great potential for selectively extracting Li+ from brines and seawater, yet its application is hindered by its poor cycle stability and conductivity. Herein a two‐step strategy to fabricate highly conductive and stable CNT‐strung LiMn2O4 (CNT‐s‐LMO) is reported, by first stringing Mn3O4 particles with multiwalled carbon nanotube (CNT), then converting the hybrids into CNT‐s‐LMO through hydrothermal lithiation. The as‐synthesized CNT‐s‐LMO materials have a net‐like structure with CNTs threading through LMO particles. This unique structure has endowed the CNT‐s‐LMO electrode with excellent conductivity, high specific capacitance, and enhanced rate performance. Because of this, the CNT‐s‐LMO electrode in the hybrid capacitive deionization cell (HCDI) can deliver a high Li+ extraction percentage (≈84%) in brine and an outstanding lithium selectivity with a separation factor of ≈181 at the Mg2+/Li+ molar ratio of 60. Significantly, the CNT‐s‐LMO‐based HCDI cell has a high stability, evidenced by 90% capacity retention and negligible Mn loss in 100 cycles. This method has paved a new way to fabricate carbon‐enabled LMO‐based absorbents with tuned structure and superior capacity for electrochemical lithium extraction with high Li+ selectivity and exceptional cycling stability, which may help to tackle the shortage in supply of Li‐ion batteries in industry in the future.
Bioinspired Robust Mechanical Properties for Advanced Materials
Authors: Wijerathne Binodhya , Liao Ting , Ostrikov K. (Ken) , Sun Ziqi
Published: May 2022

Nature is a substantial repository for various kinds of aquatic, terrestrial, and wind‐borne plants and animals adapting extensively to sustain life on earth's different environmental conditions. The organisms or structures of these natural creatures possess extraordinary properties or functionalities through well‐organizing usually weak biopolymers and bioinorganic structures, which provide good examples to emulate their mechanical and structural characteristics in materials innovations and discoveries. This review collectively investigates the studies of the structures and mechanical properties of some representative fauna and flora with robust mechanical properties and the corresponding bioinspired materials with mimicking structures and mechanical properties. By learning from the natural structures with robust mechanical properties, bioinspired materials and composites with superior mechanical performance to the constituent materials have been designed and fabricated. Via this study, there is hope to draw some principles for designing innovative materials with extraordinary properties from existing common materials by learning from nature. It is expected that the understanding of the extraordinary natural mechanical properties and the robust bioinspired materials can provide some insights into the design of novel materials and composites.
Recent Progress in Ionic Liquids for Stability Engineering of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Fei , Ge Chuang-ye , Duan Dawei , Lin Haoran , Li Liang , Naumov Panče , Hu Hanlin
Published: May 2022

Perovskite solar cells attract widespread attention due to their impressive power conversion efficiencies, high absorption coefficients, tunable bandgap, and straightforward manufacturing protocols. However, in the process of further development and optimization toward mass production, the long‐term stability stands as one of the most urgent challenges that need to be overcome. Given the excellent thermal stability and high structural designability, ionic liquids (ILs) are relatively green room‐temperature molten salts that have been widely applied to perovskite photovoltaic devices with promising results in view of improved stability and enhanced device performance. In this review, the reasons and mechanisms of instability of such devices under external and internal factors are analyzed. The current strategies of ILs engineering for improved stability of the devices are classified and summarized, including the IL‐assisted perovskite film evolution and IL‐modified photophysical properties of the perovskite photoactive layer and the related stability and photovoltaic performance of the devices. The challenges that stand as obstacles toward further development of perovskite solar cells based on IL engineering and their prospects are also discussed.
Interface science in polymer‐based composite solid electrolytes in lithium metal batteries
Authors: Wu Lingqiao , Wang Yongtao , Guo Xianwei , Ding Peipei , Lin Zhiyuan , Yu Haijun
Published: May 2022

Solid‐state lithium metal batteries (SSLMBs) have attracted considerable attention as one of the most promising energy storage systems owing to their high safety and energy density. Solid electrolytes, particularly polymer‐based composite solid electrolytes (CSEs), are considered promising electrolyte candidates for SSLMBs. However, their wide application is inhibited by various electrochemical issues, such as low ionic conductivity, the growth of lithium dendrites, and poor cycling stability, which are related to interface issues within SSLMBs. In this review, the parameters related to various interfaces in the CSE of SSLMBs, including the interfaces between the polymer matrix and inorganic fillers, between the CSEs and the cathode, and between the CSEs and the lithium metal anode, are examined. Relevant issues and corresponding remediation strategies are proposed. Finally, future perspectives based on interfacial engineering and the characterization of polymer/inorganic filler interactions are proposed for building high‐performance CSEs for use in SSLMBs.
Generation of Chemobrionic Jellyfish‐Like Structures That Mechanically Divide and Exhibit Biomimetic “Symbiosis”
Authors: Angelis Georgios , Katsanou Maria‐Eleni , Giannopoulos‐Dimitriou Alexandros , Vizirianakis Ioannis S. , Pampalakis Georgios
Published: May 2022

Addition of CaCl2into a highly alkaline phosphate buffer results in the generation of submerged transparent chemobrionic bubbles mimicking jellyfish that are stable and malleable. A compartmentalized O2‐generating reaction triggered the growth of regular vertical chemical gardens from the bubble through a gas micro‐rocket propelled mechanism. The bubbles can mechanically separate to yield two daughter bubbles in a process reminiscent of cytokinesis or natural jellyfish regeneration, and then re‐grow through new injection of CaCl2. Finally, loading ofE. colibacteria genetically engineered to exert green fluorescence inside the bubbles was demonstrated in a biomimetic analogue of “symbiosis”.
Use of a human wrist blood pressure monitor for arterial blood pressure measurements in normotensive conscious dogs in comparison to veterinary high‐definition oscillometry
Authors: Martinelli Elisa , Ferriani Riccardo , Zanaboni Annamaria , Toschi Corneliani Roberto , Locatelli Chiara
Published: May 2022

Background

The gold standard in canine blood pressure (BP) measurement is the invasive method; however, non‐invasive blood pressure measurement techniques (NIBP) are more commonly used. The lack of small, lightweight, cheap, fast and portable NIBP still remains a point to improve in the emergency setting.

Key Findings

A human wrist blood pressure (WBP) device was evaluated in comparison with the veterinary high‐definition oscillometry (HDO) in conscious normotensive dogs. Systolic and diastolic BPs were evaluated in two groups of dogs. The bias, the limits of agreement and correlation between variables were calculated. Twenty‐five and 36 dogs were, respectively, included in Study No. 1 (dogs weighting ≥10 kg) and 2 (dogs weighting ≥20 kg). In both studies, correlation between the two devices was moderate. A better agreement was displayed for diastolic pressure and poor precision for both systolic and diastolic pressures measurements (as determined by wide limits of agreement). The WBP method underestimated both the systolic and diastolic BP with respect to the HDO method. The inclusion of bigger dogs (Study No. 2) with limb circumference more like to human limb dimension did not improve the agreement between considered methods.

Significance

The human WBP monitor considered is not suitable to replace the commonly used veterinary HDO for in‐clinic BP monitoring in normotensive conscious dogs.
Metabolic bone disease in a white‐faced saki (Pithecia pithecia)
Authors: Minich David J. , Henry Barbara A. , Levens Gregory P.
Published: May 2022

Non‐human New World primates are recognized as particularly susceptible to metabolic bone disease. Improper UV light exposure and/or insufficient dietary levels of vitamin D can lead to poor bone development and skeletal mineralization deficits. This report documents the clinical progression of rickets, a type of metabolic bone disease, in a white‐faced saki (Pithecia pithecia), presenting the first documented case, to our knowledge, of this condition in this primate species. Because inconsistent feeding habits and seasonality are believed to have contributed to the development of rickets in this individual, adequate UV light exposure and adequate levels of dietary vitamin D are important considerations for individuals housed indoors and during periods of growth, ensuring adequate calcium regulation and prevention of sequela associated with low calcium and vitamin D levels. Through a multi‐faceted approach targeting medical, dietary, and husbandry changes, primate species exhibiting signs of metabolic bone diseases can be successfully managed to allow for a good quality of life.
Cutaneous mastocytosis in a dog
Authors: Ramos Sofia Chichorro , Macfarlane Michael John
Published: May 2022

Cutaneous mastocytosis (CM) is a rare disease of dogs. A 1‐year‐old neutered female crossbreed dog was presented with multiple cutaneous non‐pigmented papules. Cytological and histological examination of the lesions revealed well‐differentiated mast cells (MC). Clinical staging revealed that the disease was confined to the skin. A diagnosis of CM‐like disease was confirmed. The clinical findings of this case and treatment are discussed.
Machine intelligence in dynamical systems: \A state‐of‐art review
Authors: Sahoo Arup Kumar , Chakraverty Snehashish
Published: May 2022

This article is dedicated to study the impact of machine intelligence (MI) methods viz. various types of Neural models for investigating dynamical systems arising in interdisciplinary areas. Different types of artificial neural network (ANN) methods, viz., recurrent neural network, functional‐link neural network, convolutional neural network, symplectic artificial neural network, genetic algorithm neural network, and so on, are addressed by different researchers to investigate these problems. Although various traditional methods have been developed by researchers to solve these dynamical problems but the existing traditional methods may sometimes be problem dependent, require repetitions of the simulations, and fail to solve nonlinearity behavior. In this regard, neural network model based methods are more general and solutions are continuous over the given domain of integration, self‐adaptive and can be used as a black box. As such, in this article, we have reviewed and analyzed different MI methods, which are applied to investigate these problems.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Computational Intelligence

Technologies > Machine Learning

Application Areas > Science and Technology
Regularization for Linear System Identification
Authors: Pillonetto Gianluigi , Chen Tianshi , Chiuso Alessandro , De Nicolao Giuseppe , Ljung Lennart
Published: May 2022

Regularization has been intensively used in statistics and numerical analysis to stabilize the solution of ill-posed inverse problems. Its use in System Identification, instead, has been less systematic until very recently. This chapter provides an overview of the main motivations for using regularization in system identification from a “classical” (Mean Square Error) statistical perspective, also discussing how structural properties of dynamical models such as stability can be controlled via regularization. A Bayesian perspective is also provided, and the language of maximum entropy priors is exploited to connect different form of regularization with time-domain and frequency-domain properties of dynamical systems. Some numerical examples illustrate the role of hyper parameters in controlling model complexity, for instance, quantified by the notion of Degrees of Freedom. A brief outlook on more advanced topics such as the connection with (orthogonal) basis expansion, McMillan degree, Hankel norms is also provided. The chapter is concluded with an historical overview on the early developments of the use of regularization in System Identification.
Regularization in Reproducing Kernel Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Pillonetto Gianluigi , Chen Tianshi , Chiuso Alessandro , De Nicolao Giuseppe , Ljung Lennart
Published: May 2022

Methods for obtaining a functiongin a relationship$$y=g(x)$$y=g(x)from observed samples ofyandxare the building blocks for black-box estimation. The classical parametric approach discussed in the previous chapters uses a function model that depends on a finite-dimensional vector, like, e.g., a polynomial model. We have seen that an important issue is the model order choice. This chapter describes some regularization approaches which permit to reconcile flexibility of the model class with well-posedness of the solution exploiting an alternative paradigm to traditional parametric estimation. Instead of constraining the unknown function to a specific parametric structure, the function will be searched over a possibly infinite-dimensional functional space. Overfitting and ill-posedness are circumvented by using reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces as hypothesis spaces and related norms as regularizers. Such kernel-based approaches thus permit to cast all the regularized estimators based on quadratic penalties encountered in the previous chapters as special cases of a more general theory.
Regularization for Nonlinear System Identification
Authors: Pillonetto Gianluigi , Chen Tianshi , Chiuso Alessandro , De Nicolao Giuseppe , Ljung Lennart
Published: May 2022

In this chapter we review some basic ideas for nonlinear system identification. This is a complex area with a vast and rich literature. One reason for the richness is that very many parameterizations of the unknown system have been suggested, each with various proposed estimation methods. We will first describe with some details nonparametric techniques based on Reproducing Kernel Hilbert Space theory and Gaussian regression. The focus will be on the use of regularized least squares, first equipped with the Gaussian or polynomial kernel. Then, we will describe a new kernel able to account for some features of nonlinear dynamic systems, including fading memory concepts. Regularized Volterra models will be also discussed. We will then provide a brief overview on neural and deep networks, hybrid systems identification, block-oriented models like Wiener and Hammerstein, parametric and nonparametric variable selection methods.
Einführung: heute das Morgen gestalten – veränderte Formen der Zusammenarbeit in den Gemeinden, Städten und Regionen
Authors: Abt Jan , Blecken Lutke , Bock Stephanie , Diringer Julia , Melzer Michael
Published: May 2022

Städte und Gemeinden sind die zentralen Orte und Akteure für eine erforderliche sozial-ökologische Transformation. Diese Transformation ist multidimensional: Ob demografische Veränderungen, Zuwanderung, Energie- und Mobilitätswende oder die nahezu alle Lebensbereiche verändernde Digitalisierung – Themen müssen gemeinsam bedacht und tragfähige, übergreifende Lösungen gefunden werden. Diese wachsende Komplexität trifft zugleich auf zurückgehende Ressourcen in den Kommunen. Eine wachsende Überforderung der kommunal Verantwortlichen ist vielerorts die Folge. Aus diesem Grund werden veränderte Formen der Zusammenarbeit von Politik, Verwaltung, Wirtschaft und Zivilgesellschaft in den Gemeinden, Städten und Regionen immer stärker thematisiert und praktiziert.

Einleitend für diesen Band werden mit dem demografischen Wandel, regionalen Disparitäten und kommunal beschränkten Handlungsspielräumen drei zentrale Herausforderungen skizziert und beispielhafte Anforderungen für eine zukunftsfähige Kommunalentwicklung illustriert. Diese bildeten zugleich den Ausgangspunkt der BMBF-Fördermaßnahme „Kommunen innovativ“ im Rahmen dessen sich dieser Band mit neuen Formen der Zusammenarbeit auseinandersetzt.
Erfolgreiche Innenentwicklung durch Aktivierung privater Eigentümer*innen
Authors: Dettweiler Martina , Linke Hans-Joachim
Published: May 2022

Im BMBF-Forschungsprojekt AktVis wurden Methoden zur Aktvierung von Innenentwicklungspotenzialen durch ein dreistufiges Beteiligungsverfahren unter Anwendung einer 3D-Visualisierung erarbeitet und getestet. Dabei spielte die Sensibilisierung der Bürgerschaft, insbesondere der privaten Eigentümer*innen, für die Notwendigkeit und den Mehrwert einer Innenentwicklung vor Ort eine entscheidende Rolle. In diesem Beitrag soll die Frage beantwortet werden, wie die Notwendigkeit der Innenentwicklung privaten Eigentümer*innen bewusstgemacht werden kann, um damit geeignete Maßnahmen anzustoßen.