bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison between visual and passive acoustic detection of finless porpoises in the Yangtze River, China
Authors: Akamatsu Tomonari , Wang Ding , Wang Kexiong , Wei Zhou
Published: July 2002

Recently, sonar signals and other sounds produced by cetaceans have been used for acoustic detection of individuals and groups in the wild. However, the detection probability ascertained by concomitant visual survey has not been demonstrated extensively. The finless porpoises (Neophocaena phocaenoides) have narrow band and high-frequency sonar signals, which are distinctive from background noises. Underwater sound monitoring with hydrophones (B&K8103) placed along the sides of a research vessel, concurrent with visual observations was conducted in the Yangtze River from Wuhan to Poyang Lake in 1998 in China. The peak to peak detection threshold was set at 133 dB re 1 μPa. With this threshold level, porpoises could be detected reliably within 300 m of the hydrophone. In a total of 774-km cruise, 588 finless porpoises were sighted by visual observation and 44 864 ultrasonic pulses were recorded by the acoustical observation system. The acoustic monitoring system could detect the presence of the finless porpoises 82% of the time. A false alarm in the system occurred with a frequency of 0.9%. The high-frequency acoustical observation is suggested as an effective method for field surveys of small cetaceans, which produce high-frequency sonar signals.
Three-dimensional elasticity model for a decoupling coating on a rectangular plate immersed in a heavy fluid
Authors: Berry A. , Foin O. , Szabo J. P.
Published: July 2002

This paper presents an analysis of the vibroacoustic response of a finite, simply supported rectangular plate covered by a layer of decoupling material and immersed in a heavy fluid. An exact formulation using the three-dimensional theory of elasticity for the decoupling material is derived for this problem, thereby extending previous studies that were limited to infinite plates. The paper details the constitutive equations of the problem and the analytical method of solution. Numerical results show that shear waves in the decoupling material generally have little influence on the sound radiation in the heavy fluid. Comparisons with a locally reacting model of the decoupling material and with the simple model of House [Proc. I.O.A. 13(3), 166–173 (1991)] are also presented.
Ultrasonic wave propagation in bovine cancellous bone
Authors: Hosokawa A. , Otani T.
Published: July 2002

The acoustic properties of bovine cancellous (spongy) bone have been experimentally studied in vitro by the pulse transmission technique. Fast and slow longitudinal waves have been clearly identified when the acoustic wave propagates parallel to the direction of the trabeculae. Propagation speeds and attenuation of the fast and slow waves were observed in the frequency range of 0.5–5 MHz. Theoretical discussion is given to Biot’s theory and the propagation of sound waves in fluid-saturated porous media.
Sonic effervescence: A tutorial on acoustic cavitation
Authors: Apfel Robert E.
Published: July 2002

This article on acoustic cavitation is a revision of a tutorial lecture presented at the Acoustical Society of America meeting in Austin, Texas, on 28 November 1994. The general approach adopted here differs from a review article in stressing the overarching themes that come under the category of acoustic cavitation, rather than being an encyclopedic reference on the topic. When possible, specific order-of-magnitude estimates have been given so that the reader can better understand the particular phenomena being described. The basic physics is discussed, and applications are reviewed with the goal of putting them in a useful context.
A method for acoustic scattering by slender bodies. I. Theory and verification
Authors: Ye Zhen , Hoskinson Emile , Dewey Richard K. , Ding Li , Farmer David M.
Published: July 2002

This paper presents a new approach for calculating sound scattering by slender scatterers. The method is based on the assumption that the sound scattering function can be approximated by superimposing the scattered waves from a series of small adjacent cylindrical elements, with each of these elements scattering sound as though it were part of an infinite straight cylinder of the same radius. Using the Kirchhoff integral theorem, the bistatic scattering function is derived rigorously within the accuracy of the assumption. To validate the approach, the solution is applied to sound scattering by fluid prolate spheroids, for which the exact solution is known. Numerical comparison with the exact solution reveals that the new approach is very versatile; it can predict scattering patterns remarkably comparable to that obtained by the exact solution for a wide range of incident angles. For incidence within approximately ±20° of the broadside direction, the scattering patterns predicted by the new method coincide uniformly with the exact results. Agreement in the absolute scattering amplitude slowly deteriorates as the incidence is tilted away from the broadside aspect. However, the method consistently produces scattering patterns highly correlated to the results from the exact solution; this is potentially useful for target identification based on pattern recognition techniques. The results also show that the new method works better on the whole as the elongation of the target increases. Furthermore, calculation of cross-correlation coefficients indicates that the present method works slightly better for rigid bodies than for weak fluid bodies. The low-frequency scattering by gas-filled spheroids is also considered. It is shown that near resonance the scattering is almost isotropic, in agreement with the prediction of previous simple analytic solution.
Array technology for acoustic wave field analysis in enclosures
Authors: Berkhout A. J. , de Vries D. , Sonke J. J.
Published: July 2002

A method is proposed to calculate and measure impulse responses in an enclosure along closely spaced receiver arrays. Hence, instead of using a sparse distribution of receiver positions with single microphones, as is common practice now, arrays of microphones are applied to register the complex sound fields within enclosures. This way, there is a strong spatial correlation between adjacent responses, enabling one to analyze individual reflected wavefronts. It is shown that visualization of the recorded data in a two-dimensional domain, defined by detector position and travel time, gives a significantly improved insight in the structure of complex sound fields. This insight is further increased by applying the linear Radon transform (plane wave decomposition), yielding a representation of the data in the so-called ray parameter versus intercept time domain.
Elephant hearing
Authors: Reuter Tom , Nummela Sirpa , Hemilä Simo
Published: July 2002

Elephants’ vocalizations and movements have recently been shown to produce seismic waves (Rayleigh waves). This may be relevant for the well-known long-distance communication of these animals. It is suggested here that elephants may sense ground vibrations as a result of bone conduction producing a differential vibration of the middle ear ossicles in relation to the skull. This hypothesis is supported by the exceptionally massive ossicles of the Indian and African elephants. The acoustics of bone conduction is reviewed and related to the anatomy of the elephant middle ear.
The Wagstaff’s integration silencing processor filter: A method for exploiting fluctuations to achieve improved sonar signal processor performance
Authors: Wagstaff Ronald A.
Published: July 2002

There is a class of signal processing algorithms that achieves gain by exploiting the amplitude fluctuations in the spectrum analyzed acoustic power. One of those processors is presented. The causes of fluctuations that influence the performance of such processors are discussed, and processed results from a fluctuation-based processor are presented. Gains relative to the average power processor in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of as much as 10 dB, and gains in spatial and spectral resolution, minimum detectable levels, and other measures of processor performance have been achieved. For the most part, the additional gains from exploiting fluctuations are independent of the frequency resolution and the array aperture (or number of elements if the noise is “white”) and depend on the number of averages and percent of overlap of consecutive time-to frequency fast Fourier transforms (FFT).
Orthogonal acoustical factors of sound fields in a forest compared with those in a concert hall
Authors: Sakai Hiroyuki , Sato Shin-ichi , Ando Yoichi
Published: July 2002

In order to discuss acoustical quality of sound fields in a forest, measurements were carried out obtaining four orthogonal factors [Y. Ando, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 74, 873–887 (1983)]. Results were compared with those in a concert hall. In the forest, for example, the subsequent reverberation time, Tsub was 1.66 s (500 Hz), and the interaural cross correlation (IACC) was 0.44 (1 kHz) at a point 40 m from the source. Such an outdoor space has specific acoustic properties being blended for certain sound sources involving the middle and higher frequency ranges. It was found that the value of the width of the interaural cross-correlation function, WIACC, which is related to the apparent source width (ASW) of sound fields in the forest, was smaller than that in the concert hall.
Shock wave–inertial microbubble interaction: Methodology, physical characterization, and bioeffect study
Authors: Zhong Pei , Lin Haifan , Xi Xufeng , Zhu Songlin , Bhogte Ervind S.
Published: July 2002

A method of generating in situ shock wave–inertial microbubble interaction by a modified electrohydraulic shock wave lithotripter is proposed and tested in vitro. An annular brass ellipsoidal reflector (thickness=28 mm) that can be mounted on the aperture rim of a Dornier XL-1 lithotripter was designed and fabricated. This ring reflector shares the same foci with the XL-1 reflector, but is 15 mm short in major axis. Thus, a small portion of the spherical shock wave, generated by a spark discharge at the first focus (F1) of the reflector, is reflected and diffracted by the ring reflector, producing a weak shock wave approximately 8.5 μs in front of the lithotripter pulse. Based on the configuration of the ring reflector (different combinations of six identical segments), the peak negative pressure of the preceding weak shock wave at the second focus (F2) can be adjusted from −0.96 to −1.91 MPa, at an output voltage of 25 kV. The preceding shock wave induces inertial microbubbles, most of which expand to a maximum size of 100–200 μm, with a few expanding up to 400 μm before being collapsed in situ by the ensuing lithotripter pulse. Physical characterizations utilizing polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membrane hydrophone, high-speed shadowgraph imaging, and passive cavitation detection have shown strong secondary shock wave emission immediately following the propagating lithotripter shock front, and microjet formation along the wave propagation direction. Using the modified reflector, injury to mouse lymphoid cells is significantly increased at high exposure (up to 50% with shock number >100). With optimal pulse combination, the maximum efficiency of shock wave-induced membrane permeabilization can be enhanced substantially (up to 91%), achieved at a low exposure of 50 shocks. These results suggest that shock wave–inertial microbubble interaction may be used selectively to either enhance the efficiency of shock wave-mediated macromolecule delivery at low exposure or tissue destruction at high exposure.
Glottal characteristics of male speakers: Acoustic correlates and comparison with female data
Authors: Hanson Helen M. , Chuang Erika S.
Published: July 2002

Acoustic measurements believed to reflect glottal characteristics were made on recordings collected from 21 male speakers. The waveforms and spectra of three nonhigh vowels (/æ, ʌ, ɛ/) were analyzed to obtain acoustic parameters related to first-formant bandwidth, open quotient, spectral tilt, and aspiration noise. Comparisons were made with previous results obtained for 22 female speakers [, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 101, 466–481 (1997)]. While there is considerable overlap across gender, the male data show lower average values and less interspeaker variation for all measures. In particular, the amplitude of the first harmonic relative to that of the third formant is 9.6 dB lower for the male speakers than for the female speakers, suggesting that spectral tilt is an especially significant parameter for differentiating male and female speech. These findings are consistent with fiberscopic studies which have shown that males tend to have a more complete glottal closure, leading to less energy loss at the glottis and less spectral tilt. Observations of the speech waveforms and spectra suggest the presence of a second glottal excitation within a glottal period for some of the male speakers. Possible causes and acoustic consequences of these second excitations are discussed.
Auditory localization of nearby sources. Head-related transfer functions
Authors: Brungart Douglas S. , Rabinowitz William M.
Published: July 2002

Although researchers have long recognized the unique properties of the head-related transfer function (HRTF) for nearby sources (within 1 m of the listener’s head), virtually all of the HRTF measurements described in the literature have focused on source locations 1 m or farther from the listener. In this study, HRTFs for sources at distances from 0.12 to 1 m were calculated using a rigid-sphere model of the head and measured using a Knowles Electronic Manikin for Acoustic Research (KEMAR) and an acoustic point source. Both the calculations and the measurements indicate that the interaural level difference (ILD) increases substantially for lateral sources as distance decreases below 1 m, even at low frequencies where the ILD is small for distant sources. In contrast, the interaural time delay (ITD) is roughly independent of distance even when the source is close. The KEMAR measurements indicate that the direction of the source relative to the outer ear plays an important role in determining the high-frequency response of the HRTF in the horizontal plane. However, the elevation-dependent characteristics of the HRTFs are not strongly dependent on distance, and the contribution of the pinna to the HRTF is independent of distance beyond a few centimeters from the ear. Overall, the results suggest that binaural cues play an important role in auditory distance perception for nearby sources.
Introduction to cochlear implants
Authors: Tobey Emily
Published: July 2002

This brief overview will introduce cochlear implants and describe their basic features. The invited presentations will focus on performance outcome measures of multichannel cochlear implants, primarily in children.
A phase-compensated distorted wave Born approximation representation of the bistatic scattering by weakly scattering objects: Application to zooplankton
Authors: Chu Dezhang , Ye Zhen
Published: July 2002

The distorted wave Born approximation (DWBA) method has been successfully used in modeling the acoustic backscattering by weakly scattering zooplankton [Stanton et al., J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 94, 3463–3472 (1993), Wiebe et al., IEEE J. Ocean. Eng. 22(3), 445–464 (1997)]. However, the previously developed DWBA model ignores the imaginary part of the scattering amplitude and thus results in a zero-extinction cross section. As a consequence, the model fails to predict the scattering-induced attenuation which could be important under certain circumstances. In this paper, a phase-compensated DWBA-based approximation is presented. The improved method allows us to compute not only the scattering strength but also the acoustic attenuation. The new scattering model is validated by comparing with the existing exact solution for certain representative finite objects. The results from this study can be applied to bioacoustic applications where the attenuation due to scattering and/or multiple scattering by zooplankton is relevant, and where this information might be used to infer the acoustic properties of live animals.
Stop-pass behavior of acoustic waves in a 1D fractured system
Authors: Nakagawa Seiji , Nihei Kurt T. , Myer Larry R.
Published: July 2002

This study examines the dispersion and the stop-pass band behavior of acoustic waves propagating across periodically spaced and non periodically spaced parallel fractures. Laboratory ultrasonic wave measurements performed on a stack of synthetic fractures (identical steel plates with roughened interfaces) and numerical propagator matrix simulations show spectra with distinct stop-pass band structures that develop with decreasing fracture stiffness. To understand the physics behind these observations, an exact dispersion equation for wave propagation through an infinite series of equally spaced fractures is derived using displacement-discontinuity boundary conditions to model the constitutive behavior of the fractures and Floquet’s (Bloch’s) theory for the periodic boundary conditions. Both the measured and numerically simulated stop-pass band structures show good agreement with the theoretical predictions. Furthermore, the theory reveals that the left boundary of the stop-bands contains information about the fracture stiffness, suggesting the possibility of determining the stiffness of the parallel fractures from seismic waves. This paper also discusses the effects of fractured systems with random distributions of fracture spacings and stiffnesses on the stop-pass band structures of seismic waves in fractured rock.
Study of horizontal multipaths and ray chaos due to ocean mesoscale structure
Authors: Wolfson M. A. , Tappert F. D.
Published: July 2002

Long-range ocean acoustic propagation in the presence of idealized mesoscale structure is studied by first deriving a two-dimensional horizontal-plane parabolic wave equation that follows from the adiabatic mode approximation. In the geometric limit, a nonautonomous Hamiltonian dynamical system having one degree of freedom is derived. A stochastic formalism is developed to analyze this nonintegrable dynamical system. The main result is that on average two rays that are initially separated by an infinitesimal amount diverge exponentially at a rate given by the Lyapunov exponent that has been calculated theoretically and compared to numerical experiments with agreement to two decimal places. The practical implication of this result is that tomographic inversions based on assumed pointwise accurate ray predictions might not be possible beyond the “predictability horizon” of many thousands of kilometers, due to horizontal-plane multipaths induced by naturally occurring mesoscale activity.
Individual differences in external-ear transfer functions of cats
Authors: Xu Li , Middlebrooks John C.
Published: July 2002

Knowledge of the direction-dependent filter characteristics of the external ears is useful for the study of spatial hearing in experimental animals. The present study examined individual differences in the directional components of external-ear transfer functions (directional transfer functions, DTFs) among 24 anesthetized cats. Ears were fixed in a frontal position. Inter-cat differences in DTFs were quantified across a mid-frequency range from 8 to 16 kHz and across 30 locations in the horizontal plane and vertical midline. Across cats, DTFs showed similar direction dependence, but tended to differ in regard to the center frequencies of spectral features, such as spectral peaks and notches. Certain mid-frequency notches, for instance, varied in frequency across cats by nearly a factor of 2. Scaling of DTFs in frequency could reduce the overall differences between pairs of cats. Scale factors that minimized inter-cat differences ranged as high as 1.57 and correlated moderately with cats’ body weights. Nevertheless, appreciable individual differences remained after frequency scaling. Inter-cat differences in DTFs were substantially larger than differences that resulted from variability in positioning the ears. The results suggest some guidelines regarding the conditions under which it is acceptable to apply DTF measurements from one cat to another.
The matched-phase coherent multi-frequency matched-field processor
Authors: Orris Gregory J. , Nicholas Michael , Perkins John S.
Published: July 2002

Coherent multi-frequency matched-field processing is investigated using a matched-phase coherent matched-field processor. Its main difference from previous coherent processors is that the relative phases of the Fourier components contained within the recorded signal are not assumed to be known a priori. Rather they are considered free parameters that can be determined using a global functional minimization algorithm. Additionally, this processor uses only the cross-frequency terms, making it less susceptible to the detrimental effects of ambient noise; in one example, this processor shows a five decibel improvement over a similar coherent processor. Along with its increased sensitivity with respect to the broadcast source levels, this coherent processor exhibits superior range resolution as compared with multi-frequency incoherent processors, due to the cross-frequency interference of the vertical eigenmodes. Within this work we explore the efficacy of the algorithms used to determine the relative phases along with the performance of the matched-phase coherent processor itself, performed within the context of data collected during an event from the SWellEx-96 experiment. Performance comparisons between this processor, an incoherent processor, and another coherent processor are demonstrated using this data set.
Contributions of nonhuman animal models to understanding human speech perception
Authors: Kluender Keith R.
Published: July 2002

Broadly speaking, nonhuman animal models contribute to understanding speech perception by humans in two ways—by analogy and by homology. The former is generally easier and examples are more abundant. Because demonstrating homology requires deeper explication of underlying mechanisms, claims can be more precarious but carry potentially greater explanatory payoff. When studying nonhuman organisms as an analogy, the emphasis is typically upon how animal physiological or behavioral processes have adapted to fulfill requirements of particular ecological niches. By contrast, study of animals as homology often violates ecology in search of common underlying processes, and the animal becomes a method more than an object of study. Examples of findings for animal analogies and homologies will be reviewed. Data will be presented from experiments in which nonhuman subjects play the role of homology in revealing both foundational sensory processes and more plastic processes of perceptual development. Animal models provide advantages for describing sensory representation of speech unadulterated by effects of experience, and animal models allow control over experience permitting better characterization of processes through which experience shapes perception. Nonhuman animal models are providing important insights into general processes of audition and learning essential to human speech perception. [Work supported by NIH and NSF.]
Vibrational mode shapes in Caribbean steelpans. I. Tenor and double second
Authors: Rossing Thomas D. , Hansen Uwe J. , Hampton D. Scott
Published: July 2002

Vibrational mode shapes have been studied in several tenor (soprano range) and double-second (alto range) steelpans by three well-known makers. Normal modes are determined from operating deflection shapes recorded by means of electronic TV holography. Vibrational modes of the various note areas are designated by the number of radial and circumferential nodal lines. Tuners generally tune one mode an octave above the fundamental and, if possible, a third mode is tuned either a twelfth or two octaves above the fundamental. Note dimensions follow an approximate scaling law L=Kf2/3, and the larger note areas can be roughly modeled as rectangular plates with simply supported edges. Modal shapes in the skirt correspond to standing bending waves propagating around the ring.
The Viscoelastic Relaxation Mechanism of Inorganic Polymers. I. The Polyphosphoryldimethylamides
Authors: Eisenberg A. , Teter L.
Published: July 2002

The viscoelastic properties of the polyphosphoryldimethylamides were investigated by the technique of stress relaxation as a function of the N to P ratio, and therewith of the chain length. From the great similarity of the shape of the curves to those of “normal” organic polymers, i.e., poly(methyl methacrylate) or polystyrene as a function of the molecular weight, from the broad distribution of relaxation times, as well as from the difficulty of preparing samples below the gel-point, it is concluded that the relaxation mechanism in the flow region is molecular flow, with bond interchange along the backbone either completely absent or present to only a minor extent.
Flow Behavior of Low Molecular Weight Polybutadiene, Carboxyl-Polybutadiene, and Butadiene-Acrylonitrile Copolymers
Authors: Boyce Richard J. , Bauer Walter H. , Collins Edward A.
Published: July 2002

The flow behavior of some low molecular weight polymers was studied as a function of shear rate, shear stress, and temperature. The polymers included polybutadienes, random carboxyl and carboxyl-terminated polybutadienes, carboxyl-terminated butadiene-acrylonitrile, and acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymers. Measurements were made in the temperature range 3.8–73°C. A cone and plate viscometer and pressure capillary viscometer were used to cover the shear rate range 1−105 sec−1. Measurements were carried out with various capillary radius to length ratios. M̄w and M̄n values were calculated from molecular weight distribution data obtained by gel permeation chromatography. Limiting viscosity numbers were also determined. In the range of shear rates studied, all polymers showed a limiting viscosity at low rates of shear and a region of shear rate thinning. The log viscosity-log shear rate flow curves for each sample at the various temperatures were superimposable by linear shifts. Energies of activation calculated according to the method of Fox and Loshaek were found to have values characteristic of the molecular structure. Normal stresses developed in capillary flow as measured by entrance effects showed some dependence on structure. Flow results were compared with the Bueche-Harding experimental standard curve and the Bueche theoretical curve. The presence of polar groups in the polymer chain increased the energy of activation and the relative magnitude of the viscosity. The log viscosity-log shear rate flow curves for all the samples at any constant temperature were superimposable by linear shifts in two distinct classes according to differences in molecular weight distribution.
Normal stress differences in liquid crystalline hydroxypropylcellulose solutions
Authors: Baek S.-G. , Magda J. J. , Cementwala S.
Published: July 2002

All three viscometric functions are investigated as a function of shear rate for lyotropic solutions of hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC). Through the use of m-cresol as the solvent, it was possible to investigate liquid crystal solutions at lower polymer volume fractions than have previously been studied for HPC. We find no evidence of a three-region viscosity curve, as has been widely reported for HPC at higher polymer volume fractions. The first and second normal stress differences (N1 and N2, respectively) both change sign twice as the shear rate is varied.
Cutaneous Involvement in Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome in a Multicenter Cohort of 65 Patients
Authors: Dupré Anastasia , Morel Nathalie , Yelnik Cécile , Moguelet Philippe , Le Guern Véronique , Stammler Romain , Nguyen Yann , Paule Romain , Dufrost Virginie , Ackermann Felix , Benhamou Ygal , Godeau Bertrand , Lambert Marc , Duffau Pierre , Mekinian Arsène , Saadoun David , Mouthon Luc , Hachulla Eric , Maillard Hélène , Levesque Hervé , Morell-Dubois Sandrine , Leroux Gaëlle , Piette Jean-Charles , Chasset François , Costedoat-Chalumeau Nathalie
Published: December 2022

Importance

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome (CAPS) is a severe, rare complication of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), but cutaneous involvement has not yet been adequately described.

Objective

To describe cutaneous involvement during CAPS, its clinical and pathological features, and outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study was a retrospective analysis of patients included in the French multicenter APS/systemic lupus erythematosus register (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02782039) by December 2020. All patients meeting the revised international classification criteria for CAPS were included, and patients with cutaneous manifestations were analyzed more specifically.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Clinical and pathological data as well as course and outcome in patients with cutaneous involvement during CAPS were collected and compared with those in the register without cutaneous involvement.

Results

Among 120 patients with at least 1 CAPS episode, the 65 (54%) with skin involvement (43 [66%] women; median [range] age, 31 [12-69] years) were analyzed. Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome was the first APS manifestation for 21 of 60 (35%) patients with available data. The main lesions were recent-onset or newly worsened livedo racemosa (n = 29, 45%), necrotic and/or ulcerated lesions (n = 27, 42%), subungual splinter hemorrhages (n = 19, 29%), apparent distal inflammatory edema (reddened and warm hands, feet, or face) (n = 15, 23%), and/or vascular purpura (n = 9, 14%). Sixteen biopsies performed during CAPS episodes were reviewed and showed microthrombi of dermal capillaries in 15 patients (94%). These lesions healed without sequelae in slightly more than 90% (58 of 64) of patients. Patients with cutaneous involvement showed a trend toward more frequent histologically proven CAPS (37% vs 24%, P = .16) than those without such involvement, while mortality did not differ significantly between the groups (respectively, 5% vs 9%, P = .47).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, half the patients with CAPS showed cutaneous involvement, with a wide spectrum of clinical presentations, including distal inflammatory edema. Skin biopsies confirmed the diagnosis in all but 1 biopsied patient.
Effect of a Multicomponent Intervention Delivered on a Web-Based Platform on Hypertension Control
Authors: Zhou Haoqi , Wang Xin , Yang Ying , Chen Zuo , Zhang Linfeng , Zheng Congyi , Shao Lan , Tian Ye , Cao Xue , Hu Zhen , Tian Yixin , Chen Lu , Cai Jiayin , Gu Runqing , Wang Zengwu
Published: December 2022

Importance

The prevalence of hypertension is high and still increasing across the world, while the control rate remains low in many countries. Emerging technology, such as telemedicine, may offer additional support to change the unsatisfactory situation.

Objective

To establish a multicomponent intervention delivered on a web-based telemedicine platform and oriented with the Chinese hypertension management guidelines and to evaluate the effect of the intervention on blood pressure (BP) control for patients with hypertension.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cluster randomized clinical trial of a hypertension management program was conducted at 66 community health centers in China from October 1, 2018, to May 31, 2020, with a 12-month follow-up. Patients with hypertension were blinded to randomization and were randomized to either the intervention group or control group. Hypertension was diagnosed at mean systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) readings higher than 140 and 90 mm Hg or with use of antihypertensive medication. Evaluation of the intervention effect was based on the principle of modified intention to treat.

Interventions

Multicomponent intervention was delivered on a web-based platform and consisted of a primary prevention program for cardiovascular disease and standardized management for hypertension.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the change in BP control rate (SBP and DBP levels <140 and 90 mm Hg, or <130 and 80 mm Hg for patients with diabetes) from baseline to the 12-month follow-up among patients with hypertension in the intervention and control groups.

Results

A total of 4118 patients (mean [SD] age, 61.6 [9.4] years; 2265 women [55.0%]) were included in the analysis, with 2985 in the intervention group and 1133 in the control group. The BP control rate at baseline was 22.8% in the intervention group and 22.5% in the control group. After 12 months of the intervention, the BP control rate for the intervention group compared with the control group was significantly higher (47.4% vs 30.2%; odds ratio, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.13-1.24; P < .001). The intervention effect on SBP level was –10.1 mm Hg (95% CI, –11.7 to –8.5 mm Hg; P < .001) and on DBP level was –1.8 mm Hg (95% CI, –2.8 to –0.8 mm Hg; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this trial showed that a multicomponent intervention delivered on a web-based platform improved BP control rate and lowered BP level more than usual care alone. Such a telemedicine program may provide a new, effective way to treat patients with hypertension in the community and may generate public health benefits across diverse populations.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR1800017791
Federal Funding and Citation Metrics of US Biomedical Researchers, 1996 to 2022
Authors: Ioannidis John P. A. , Hozo Iztok , Djulbegovic Benjamin
Published: December 2022

Importance

Both citation and funding metrics converge in shaping current perceptions of academic success.

Objective

To evaluate what proportion of the most-cited US-based scientists are funded by biomedical federal agencies and whether funded scientists are more cited than nonfunded ones.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This survey study used linkage of a Scopus-based database on top-cited US researchers (according to a composite citation metric) and the National Institutes of Health RePORTER database of federal funding (33 biomedical federal agencies). Matching was based on name and institution. US-based top-cited scientists who were allocated to any of 69 scientific subfields highly related to biomedicine were considered in the main analysis. Data were downloaded on June 11, 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Proportion of US-based top-cited biomedical scientists who had any (1996-2022), recent (2015-2022), and current (2021-2022) funding. Comparisons of funded and nonfunded scientists assessed total citations and a composite citation index.

Results

There were 204 603 records in RePORTER (1996-2022) and 75 316 US-based top-cited scientists in the career-long citation database; 40 887 scientists were included in the main analysis. The proportion of US-based top-cited biomedical scientists (according to career-long citation impact) who had received any federal funding from biomedical research agencies was 62.7% (25 650 of 40 887) for any funding (1996-2022), 23.1% (9427 of 40 887) for recent funding (2015-2022), and 14.1% (5778 of 40 887) for current funding (2021-2022). Respective proportions were 64.8%, 31.4%, and 20.9%, for top-cited scientists according to recent single-year citation impact. There was large variability across scientific subfields (eg, current funding: 31% of career-long impact top-cited scientists in geriatrics, 30% in bioinformatics and 29% in developmental biology, but 0% in legal and forensic medicine, general psychology and cognitive sciences, and gender studies). Funded top-cited researchers were overall more cited than nonfunded top-cited scientists (median [IQR], 9594 [5650-1703] vs 5352 [3057-9890] citations; P < .001) and substantial difference remained after adjusting for subfield and years since first publication. Differences were more prominent in some specific biomedical subfields.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this survey study, biomedical federal funding had offered support to approximately two-thirds of the top-cited biomedical scientists at some point during the last quarter century, but only a small minority of top-cited scientists had current federal biomedical funding. The large unevenness across subfields needs to be addressed with ways that improve equity, efficiency, excellence, and translational potential.
Deep Learning for Cross-Diagnostic Prediction of Mental Disorder Diagnosis and Prognosis Using Danish Nationwide Register and Genetic Data
Authors: Allesøe Rosa Lundbye , Thompson Wesley K. , Bybjerg-Grauholm Jonas , Hougaard David M. , Nordentoft Merete , Werge Thomas , Rasmussen Simon , Benros Michael Eriksen
Published: December 2022

Importance

Diagnoses and treatment of mental disorders are hampered by the current lack of objective markers needed to provide a more precise diagnosis and treatment strategy.

Objective

To develop deep learning models to predict mental disorder diagnosis and severity spanning multiple diagnoses using nationwide register data, family and patient-specific diagnostic history, birth-related measurement, and genetics.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This study was conducted from May 1, 1981, to December 31, 2016. For the analysis, which used a Danish population-based case-cohort sample of individuals born between 1981 and 2005, genotype data and matched longitudinal health register data were taken from the longitudinal Danish population-based Integrative Psychiatric Research Consortium 2012 case-cohort study. Included were individuals with mental disorders (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder [ADHD]), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD), schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SCZ), and population controls. Data were analyzed from February 1, 2021, to January 24, 2022.

Exposure

At least 1 hospital contact with diagnosis of ADHD, ASD, MDD, BD, or SCZ.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The predictability of (1) mental disorder diagnosis and (2) severity trajectories (measured by future outpatient hospital contacts, admissions, and suicide attempts) were investigated using both a cross-diagnostic and single-disorder setup. Predictive power was measured by AUC, accuracy, and Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), including an estimate of feature importance.

Results

A total of 63 535 individuals (mean [SD] age, 23 [7] years; 34 944 male [55%]; 28 591 female [45%]) were included in the model. Based on data prior to diagnosis, the specific diagnosis was predicted in a multidiagnostic prediction model including the background population with an overall area under the curve (AUC) of 0.81 and MCC of 0.28, whereas the single-disorder models gave AUCs/MCCs of 0.84/0.54 for SCZ, 0.79/0.41 for BD, 0.77/0.39 for ASD, 0.74/0.38, for ADHD, and 0.74/0.38 for MDD. The most important data sets for multidiagnostic prediction were previous mental disorders and age (11%-23% reduction in prediction accuracy when removed) followed by family diagnoses, birth-related measurements, and genetic data (3%-5% reduction in prediction accuracy when removed). Furthermore, when predicting subsequent disease trajectories of the disorder, the most severe cases were the most easily predictable, with an AUC of 0.72.

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this diagnostic study suggest the possibility of combining genetics and registry data to predict both mental disorder diagnosis and disorder progression in a clinically relevant, cross-diagnostic setting prior to clinical assessment.
Sleep Disturbance and SARS–CoV‐2 Vaccinations in Patients With Chronic Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Pawar Niti , Taylor Kimberly E. , Yang Monica , Deepak Parakkal , Kim Wooseob , Paley Michael A. , Matloubian Mehrdad , Carvidi Alex , Ciorba Matthew A. , Demissie Emanuel , El‐Qunni Alia , Huang Katherine , Kinnett Baylee , McMorrow Lily E. , Paez Diana , Poole Mackenzie , Rose Abigail , Schriefer Rebecca E. , Kim Alfred H. J. , Nakamura Mary , Katz Patricia , Gensler Lianne S.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Immunocompromised patients with chronic inflammatory disease (CID) may have experienced additional psychosocial burden during the COVID‐19 pandemic due to their immunocompromised status. This study was undertaken to determine if vaccination would result in improved patient‐reported outcomes longitudinally among individuals with CID undergoing SARS–CoV‐2 vaccination regardless of baseline anxiety.

Methods

Data are from a cohort of individuals with CID from 2 sites who underwent SARS–CoV‐2 vaccination. Participants completed 3 study visits before and after 2 messenger RNA vaccine doses in the initial vaccination series when clinical data were collected. Patient‐reported outcomes were measured using the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System 29‐item Health Profile and expressed as T scores, with 2 groups stratified by high and low baseline anxiety. Mixed‐effects models were used to examine longitudinal changes, adjusting for age, sex, and study site.

Results

A total of 72% of the cohort was female with a mean ± SD age of 48.1 ± 15.5 years. Overall, sleep disturbance improved following both doses of SARS–CoV‐2 vaccinations, and anxiety decreased after the second dose. Physical function scores worsened but did not meet the minimally important difference threshold. When stratifying by baseline anxiety, improvement in anxiety, fatigue, and social participation were greater in the high anxiety group. Physical function worsened slightly in both groups, and sleep disturbance improved significantly in the high anxiety group.

Conclusion

Sleep disturbance decreased in a significant and meaningful way in patients with CID upon vaccination. In patients with higher baseline anxiety, social participation increased, and anxiety, fatigue, and sleep disturbance decreased. Overall, results suggest that SARS–CoV‐2 vaccination may improve mental health and well‐being, particularly among those with greater anxiety.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of p‐Type Mg3Sb2 for Reliable and Low‐Cost all‐Mg3Sb2‐Based Thermoelectric Low‐Grade Heat Recovery
Authors: Liang Zhongxin , Xu Congcong , Song Shaowei , Shi Xin , Ren Wuyang , Ren Zhifeng
Published: December 2022

Bi2Te3‐based devices have long dominated the commercial market for thermoelectric cooling applications, but their narrow operating temperature range and high cost have limited their possible applications for conversion of low‐grade heat into electric power. The recently developed n‐type Mg3Sb2‐based compounds exhibit excellent transport properties across a wide temperature range, have low material costs, and are nontoxic, so it would be possible to substitute the conventional Bi2Te3 module with a reliable and low‐cost all‐Mg3Sb2‐based thermoelectric device if a good p‐type Mg3Sb2 material can be obtained to match its n‐type counterpart. In this study, by comprehensively regulating the carrier concentration, carrier mobility, and lattice thermal conductivity, the thermoelectric performance of p‐type Mg3Sb2 is significantly improved through Na and Yb doping in Mg1.8Zn1.2Sb2. Moreover, p‐ and n‐type Mg3Sb2 are similar in terms of their coefficients of thermal expansion and their good performance stability, thus allowing the construction of a reliable all‐Mg3Sb2‐based unicouple. The decent conversion efficiency (≈5.5% at the hot‐side temperature of 573 K), good performance stability, and low cost of this unicouple effectively promote the practical application of Mg3Sb2‐based thermoelectric generators for low‐grade heat recovery.
Passivation of Bi2Te3 Topological Insulator by Transferred CVD‐Graphene: Toward Intermixing‐Free Interfaces
Authors: Galceran Regina , Bonell Frédéric , Camosi Lorenzo , Sauthier Guillaume , Gebeyehu Zewdu M. , Esplandiu Maria José , Arrighi Aloïs , Fernández Aguirre Iván , Figueroa Adriana I. , Sierra Juan F. , Valenzuela Sergio O.
Published: December 2022

The investigation, and ultimate application, of topological insulators, typically involve exposure to ambient conditions or their integration with metals, which lead to surface oxidation or material intermixing. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurements that demonstrate passivated and intermixing‐free interfaces in the topological insulator Bi2Te3 by means of dry‐transferred CVD graphene are reported. After air exposure, no traces of Bi2Te3 oxidation are found. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that graphene acts as a very efficient metal and chalcogen diffusion barrier in Bi2Te3/graphene/permalloy (Py) heterostructures, which are relevant for spintronics. Such results are in stark contrast with the significant surface degradation observed in bare Bi2Te3 under ambient conditions and the deep BiTe bonding disruption that occurs in Bi2Te3/Py heterostructures. These findings provide a new approach to control and engineer topological insulator interfaces for spintronic applications and a new platform to investigate the combined use of graphene and topological insulator Dirac states.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Cascade Reaction of Ynamides and 1,3‐Dicarbonyl Compounds for Selective Synthesis of Differently SizedN‐Heterocycles
Authors: Zhang Biao , Yang Xu‐Heng , Huang Jian , Tao Cheng‐an , Wang Jianfang
Published: December 2022

A triphenylphosphine‐ligated cobalt‐catalyzed cyclization manifold with various 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds and halogenatedN‐allyl ynamides was accomplished under alkaline reaction conditions, facilitating the synthesis of differently sizedN‐heterocycles. A large array of products was prepared to demonstrate the selective synthesis ofN‐heterocycles of different ring sizes (5‐, 6‐, and 7‐membered rings) via cobalt catalysis. The reaction has broad substrate scope and a wide range of functional groups.

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Covalent Functionalization of Black Phosphorus Nanosheets with Photochromic Polymer for Transient Optoelectronic Memory Devices
Authors: Wu Dongchuang , Cui Xiaosheng , El‐Khouly Mohamed E. , Gu Minchao , Zhang Bin , Chen Yu
Published: December 2022

How to erase sensitive data stored on memory devices quickly in an emergency has become a critical issue that needs to be addressed. Using BP‐BIBB as a key template for atom transfer radical polymerization, which is prepared by the reaction of p‐hydroxyphenyl‐functionalized black phosphorous nanosheets (C6H4OH‐BP) with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide (BIBB), a highly soluble poly[4‐(4‐(3,3,4,4,5,5‐hexafluoro‐2‐(2‐methyl‐5‐phenylthiophen‐3‐yl)cyclopent‐1‐en‐1‐yl)‐5‐methylthiophen‐2‐yl)phenyl methacrylate] (PHPM)‐covalently grafted BP derivative, hereafter abbreviated as PHPM‐g‐BP, is synthesized in situ. PHPM is a typical photochromic polymer that emits blue light under UV irradiation, while showing pale yellow under visible light illumination. By using PHPM‐g‐BP as an active layer, an as‐fabricated transient optoelectronic memory device exhibits a nonvolatile rewritable memory effect under UV irradiation, with an ON/OFF current ratio of 3.6 × 103, a turn‐on voltage of 1.60 V, and a turn‐off voltage of −1.41 V. Upon visible light illumination for 10 s, all the information stored in the device is erased quickly. The observed device current drops down from 10−3 to 10−8 A rapidly.