bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA‐6) on the growth and cadmium accumulation of tomato seedlings
Authors: Dong Yiping , Liang Le , Lin Lijin , Li Huanxiu , Liao Ming'An , Sun Guochao , Liang Dong , Xia Hui , Wang Jin , Wang Xun , Tu Lihua , Tang Yi
Published: February 2021

Diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA‐6) can lessen the effects of cadmium (Cd) toxicity on some plants. A pot experiment was conducted to examine the impact of different DA‐6 concentrations (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg/L) on growth and Cd accumulation of tomato seedlings. A DA‐6 concentration of 10 mg/L increased the biomass of roots, stems, leaves, and shoots, while the other concentrations either had no significant effects or inhibited the growth of tomato seedlings. Concentrations 10 and 20 mg/L of DA‐6 increased the chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll contents, and the activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase. All the four tested concentrations of DA‐6 reduced catalase activity and increased the soluble protein content. Importantly, all tested DA‐6 concentrations decreased the Cd content of tomato seedling roots, and increased in the Cd contents of stems, leaves, and shoots. While 10 mg/L DA‐6 did not significantly affect the translocation factor of tomato seedlings, the other tested DA‐6 concentrations enhanced the translocation factor. Therefore, 10 mg/L DA‐6 could significantly promote the growth of tomato, but all the tested concentrations of DA‐6 could also promote the uptake of Cd in tomato shoots, which could impede the safe production of tomatoes in Cd‐contaminated soils.
Adaptive modem and interference suppression based on deep learning
Authors: Wei Peng , Wang Shilian , Luo Junshan
Published: February 2021

With the increasingly fierce competition of electromagnetic spectrum, developing intelligent communication systems that can reconfigure its waveform can effectively improve the communication system's ability to adapt to the complex electromagnetic environment. In this paper, an adaptive modem based on a deep autoencoder network (DAN) is designed, and the demodulation performance that is close to, consistent with, or better than traditional MPSK or QAM is achieved. This DAN can be trained by a unified loss function and a unified optimization algorithm to implement a variety of modems. For high‐order modems, the constellation diagrams generated by the DAN are radically different from the traditional modulation and very difficult to distinguish linearly, which is beneficial to improve the anti‐interception ability of the communication systems. Additionally, based on the trained DAN, a convolutional neural network (CNN) with a single convolutional layer is incorporated to suppress a variety of interferences. By using transfer learning, the new deep learning (DL) model with the CNN converges fast with a few epochs of training. Training and test results verify that the new DL model can improve the anti‐interference ability of the communication systems by learning and suppressing the interferences in both frequency and power domains.
An intrusion detection system using optimized deep neural network architecture
Authors: Ramaiah Mangayarkarasi , Chandrasekaran Vanmathi , Ravi Vinayakumar , Kumar Neeraj
Published: February 2021

Internet usage became increasingly ubiquitous. The concern regarding security and privacy has become essential for Internet users. As the usage of the Internet increases the number of cyber‐attacks also increases substantially. Intrusion detection is one of the challenging aspects of network security. Efficient intrusion detection is crucial for every organization to mitigate the vulnerability. This paper presents a novel intrusion detection system to detect malicious attacks targeted at a smart environment. The proposed Intrusion detection method uses a correlation tool and a random forest method to detect the predominant independent variables for improvising neural‐based attack classifier. To detect a malicious attack, a shallow neural network and an optimized neural‐based classifier are presented. The designed intrusion detection system has experimented on the KDDCUP99 dataset. The experimental results reveal that the performance of the proposed intrusion detection system is superior in terms of quantitative metrics. Thus, the proposed system can be deployed in the IoT and wireless networks to detect cyber‐attacks.
Human resources and corporate failure prediction modeling: Evidence from Belgium
Authors: Brédart Xavier , Séverin Eric , Veganzones David
Published: February 2021

This paper analyzes the prediction performance of human resources (HR) variables in corporate failure modeling. We define corporate failure as a two‐phase process from financial distress to bankruptcy, so that we can determine the prediction power of HR variables along a firm's phase in the financial deterioration process. We demonstrate the use of HR variables and their application to a two‐phase corporate failure model, providing first evidence for the predictive power of HR variables. The experimental results, based on real‐world datasets from Belgium, show that HR variables used in conjugation with accounting‐based information improve the accuracy of prediction modeling. However, the predictive power of HR variables varies in different phases of corporate failure with better prediction accuracy during the initial symptoms of corporate failure (i.e., financial distress). Findings show that our proposed model predicted financial distress with 84.1%, whereas the accuracy decreased to 83.3% when predicting bankruptcy. Besides, they also show that, on average, the inclusion of HR variables improves the global accuracy of the prediction models of 3.8% and allows to decrease Type I error of 5%.
Factors associated with subjective cognitive decline in dementia‐free older adults—A population‐based study
Authors: Zullo Leonardo , Clark Christopher , Gholam Mehdi , Castelao Enrique , von Gunten Armin , Preisig Martin , Popp Julius
Published: February 2021

Background

Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is common in older adults, affects quality of life (QoL), and may represent the earliest clinical manifestation of cognitive decline evolving to dementia. Still little is known about factors associated with SCD.

Objectives

(1) Assess the associations between SCD and demographic, social, clinical, and personality characteristics as well as QoL, with and without adjustment for objective cognitive performance, and (2) investigate the relations between neuroticism, QoL, and SCD.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis of a cohort of 1567 dementia‐free community‐dwellers from the urban area of Lausanne, Switzerland, aged 64 years and older (mean age 70.9 ± 4.7 years), from CoLaus/PsyCoLaus. SCD was assessed using a validated 10‐item questionnaire. Personality traits, QoL, and perceived social support were evaluated using self‐report measures. Information on depression and anxiety status and socioeconomic characteristics including professional activity were elicited using a semi‐structured interview. Cognitive functioning was assessed through a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery. Statistical analysis was based on logistic regression.

Results

SCD was present in 18.5% of the sample and it was associated with lower performance in memory and verbal fluency tasks. After controlling for possible confounders, professional activity, neuroticism, and current depression were associated with SCD. Exploratory analysis revealed associations of SCD with QoL, neuroticism, and their interaction.

Conclusion

Besides objective cognitive performance, SCD is related to several psychosocial factors in dementia‐free community‐dwelling older people. These findings are relevant for the development of healthcare interventions to reduce cognitive complaints, improve QoL, and prevent cognitive decline in general population.
Heat and mass transfer analysis of chemically reactive tangent hyperbolic fluid in a microchannel
Authors: Sindhu S. , Gireesha B. J.
Published: February 2021

This study addresses the fully developed magnetohydrodynamic flow of non‐Newtonian fluid in a microchannel using tangent hyperbolic fluid model. The physical situation has been modeled by accessing boundary layer theory along with the physical aspects of thermophoresis and Brownian motion. The heat and mass transport phenomena are depicted through graphical interpretations. The modeled equations are nondimensionalized using dimensionless variables. The obtained corresponding equations are solved by employing Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg scheme accompanied with shooting technique. The fluctuations in distinct entities of physical connotations, like, the Nusselt number, friction factor and Sherwood number are explored in this examination. A notable reduction in the concentration field of the tangent hyperbolic fluid has been obtained for a larger chemical reaction parameter. The result shows that non‐Newtonian fluids exhibit higher Nusselt number than Newtonian fluids. Furthermore, a significant enhancement in Nusselt number has been attained through a rise in the power‐law index and thermophoresis aspect.
Feasibility study of a hybrid photovoltaic/thermal collector system in the climate of Jordan
Authors: Hader Montasir , Hanbali Mohammed , Al‐Kouz Wael
Published: February 2021

This study is dedicated to investigating the feasibility of photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) collectors' technology for application in Jordan. Simple parallel‐plate collector configurations were simulated using COMSOL: rectangular fins, triangular fins, and wavy walls. The wavy‐wall configuration was found the most efficient alternative in terms of heat transfer with respect to the pumping power and performance factor that took into account the comparison with a plain‐wall parallel‐plate collector. However, the performance of the plain‐wall parallel plate preceded that of the wavy wall by increasing the Reynolds number and the water channel height. The plain‐wall parallel‐plate configuration was further investigated on HOMER as a 5 MW solar plant that provides energy to a 5‐MW facility. One MW of its load is direct thermal load. Different solar plant designs were compared. The PV/T plant was found to be very much energy saving but not feasible due to its high initial cost. However, the PV/T plant was better than the PV when the cooling was not complete compromising on some electric energy in favor of heat generation. Further work on reducing the cost of the PV/T collector is required especially with regard to contact methods between the PV and the absorber plate and to the weight of the collector.
Lifetime alcohol intake, drinking patterns over time and risk of stomach cancer: A pooled analysis of data from two prospective cohort studies
Authors: Jayasekara Harindra , MacInnis Robert J. , Lujan‐Barroso Leila , Mayen‐Chacon Ana‐Lucia , Cross Amanda J. , Wallner Bengt , Palli Domenico , Ricceri Fulvio , Pala Valeria , Panico Salvatore , Tumino Rosario , Kühn Tilman , Kaaks Rudolf , Tsilidis Kostas , Sánchez Maria‐Jose , Amiano Pilar , Ardanaz Eva , Chirlaque López María Dolores , Merino Susana , Rothwell Joseph A. , Boutron‐Ruault Marie‐Christine , Severi Gianluca , Sternby Hanna , Sonestedt Emily , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita Bas , Boeing Heiner , Travis Ruth , Sandanger Torkjel M. , Trichopoulou Antonia , Karakatsani Anna , Peppa Eleni , Tjønneland Anne , Yang Yi , Hodge Allison M. , Mitchell Hazel , Haydon Andrew , Room Robin , Hopper John L. , Weiderpass Elisabete , Gunter Marc J. , Riboli Elio , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Agudo Antonio , English Dallas R. , Ferrari Pietro
Published: February 2021

Alcohol consumption is causally linked to several cancers but the evidence for stomach cancer is inconclusive. In our study, the association between long‐term alcohol intake and risk of stomach cancer and its subtypes was evaluated. We performed a pooled analysis of data collected at baseline from 491 714 participants in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition and the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated for incident stomach cancer in relation to lifetime alcohol intake and group‐based life course intake trajectories, adjusted for potential confounders including Helicobacter pylori infection. In all, 1225 incident stomach cancers (78% noncardia) were diagnosed over 7 094 637 person‐years; 984 in 382 957 study participants with lifetime alcohol intake data (5 455 507 person‐years). Although lifetime alcohol intake was not associated with overall stomach cancer risk, we observed a weak positive association with noncardia cancer (HR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.00‐1.06 per 10 g/d increment), with a HR of 1.50 (95% CI: 1.08‐2.09) for ≥60 g/d compared to 0.1 to 4.9 g/d. A weak inverse association with cardia cancer (HR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.87‐1.00) was also observed. HRs of 1.48 (95% CI: 1.10‐1.99) for noncardia and 0.51 (95% CI: 0.26‐1.03) for cardia cancer were observed for a life course trajectory characterized by heavy decreasing intake compared to light stable intake (Phomogeneity = .02). These associations did not differ appreciably by smoking or H pylori infection status. Limiting alcohol use during lifetime, particularly avoiding heavy use during early adulthood, might help prevent noncardia stomach cancer. Heterogeneous associations observed for cardia and noncardia cancers may indicate etiologic differences.
Dynamic asset allocation with multiple regime‐switching markets
Authors: Shi Jianmin
Published: February 2021

This paper considers dynamic asset allocation problem with dual or multiple regime‐switching markets, that is, portfolio optimization of an investor who receives income from a cyclical or regime‐switching labour market while invests her wealth under a cyclical or regime‐switching financial market. For this purpose, we set up a flexible and tractable optimal control framework for dual or multiple Markov‐modulated stochastic system, in which Markov chains governing these regime switching are not identical as assumed in the existing literature. Based on combining two separate Markov chains into a new synthetic Markov chain in continuous time context, we state the corresponding Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equations and derive explicit solutions and value functions under some reasonable specifications. Furthermore, we lay out a numerical exercise and illustrations for optimal asset allocation or portfolio decisions under cyclical movements of both financial and labour markets.
The role of oil and risk shocks in thehigh‐frequencymovements of the term structure of interest rates: Evidence from the U.S. Treasury market
Authors: Gupta Rangan , Shahzad Syed Jawad Hussain , Sheng Xin , Subramaniam Sowmya
Published: February 2021

We use daily data for the period 5 January 2000 to 31 October 2018 to analyse the impact of structural oil supply, oil demand and financial market risk shocks on the level, slope and curvature factors derived from the term structure of interest rates of the U.S. Treasury securities covering maturities of 1–30 years. Linear causality tests detect no evidence of predictability of these shocks on the three latent factors. However, statistical tests performed on the linear model provide evidence of structural breaks and nonlinearity, and hence indicate that the Granger causality test results are based on a misspecified framework, and cannot be relied upon. Given this, we use a nonparametric causality in‐quantiles test to reconsider the predictive ability of the three shocks on the three latent factors, with this model being robust to misspecification due to regime changes and nonlinearity, as it is a data‐driven approach. Moreover, this framework allows us to model the entire conditional distribution of the level, slope and curvature factors, and hence can accommodate, via the lower quantiles, the zero lower bound situation seen in our sample period. Using this robust model, we find overwhelming evidence of causality from the two oil shocks and the risk shock for the entire conditional distribution of the three factors, suggesting the predictability of the entire U.S. term structure based on information contained in oil and financial market innovations. Our results have important implications for academics, investors and policymakers.
Synthesis of biologically important 4‐Phenyl‐C‐glycosyl‐1,2,3‐triazole derivatives by Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition
Authors: Ponnapalli Kalyana K. , Kawade Sachin K. , Adak Avijit K. , Wu Hsin‐Ru , Lin Chun‐Cheng
Published: February 2021

A new series of 4‐phenyl‐C‐glycosyl‐1,2,3‐triazoles were synthesized using Cu(I)‐ catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition. The key step in the synthesis involved the coupling of unprotected glycosyl azides with substituted C‐glycosylated phenyl acetylenes. Using o‐phenylenediamine as a ligand, we could significantly reduce the reaction time, improve the product yield, and simplify the purification process. Broad substrate scope in terms of sugars was achieved.
Mechanical loading attenuates breast cancer‐associated bone metastasis in obese mice by regulating the bone marrow microenvironment
Authors: Huang Menglu , Liu Hong , Zhu Lei , Li Xinle , Li Jie , Yang Shuang , Liu Daquan , Song Xiaomeng , Yokota Hiroki , Zhang Ping
Published: February 2021

Breast cancer, a common malignancy for women, preferentially metastasizes to bone and obesity elevates the chance of its progression. While mechanical loading can suppress obesity and tumor‐driven osteolysis, its effect on bone‐metastasized obese mice has not been investigated. Here, we hypothesized that mechanical loading can lessen obesity‐associated bone degradation in tumor‐invaded bone by regulating the fate of bone marrow‐derived cells. In this study, the effects of mechanical loading in obese mice were evaluated through X‐ray imaging, histology, cytology, and molecular analyses. Tumor inoculation to the tibia elevated body fat composition, osteolytic lesions, and tibia destruction, and these pathologic changes were stimulated by the high‐fat diet (HFD). However, mechanical loading markedly reduced these changes. It suppressed osteoclastogenesis by downregulating receptor activator of nuclear factor Kappa‐B ligand and cathepsin K and promoted osteogenesis, which was associated with the upregulation of OPG and downregulation of C/enhancer‐binding protein alpha and proliferator‐activated receptor gamma for adipogenic differentiation. Furthermore, it decreased the levels of tumorigenic genes such as Rac1, MMP9, and interleukin 1β. In summary, this study demonstrates that although a HFD aggravates bone metastases associated with breast cancer, mechanical loading significantly protected tumor‐invaded bone by regulating the fate of bone marrow‐derived cells. The current study suggests that mechanical loading can provide a noninvasive, palliative option for alleviating breast cancer‐associated bone metastasis, in particular for obese patients.
Effects of sarcopenia and malnutrition on morbidity and mortality in gynecologic cancer surgery: results of a prospective study
Authors: Sehouli Jalid , Mueller Kristina , Richter Rolf , Anker Markus , Woopen Hannah , Rasch Julia , Grabowski Jacek P. , Prinz‐Theissing Eva , Inci Melisa Guelhan
Published: February 2021

Background

Malnutrition and sarcopenia often occur simultaneously in cancer patients and are thought to have harmful effects on both surgical and oncological outcomes. Therefore, we want to evaluate the effects of sarcopenia and malnutrition on severe postoperative complications and overall survival in gynecologic cancer patients.

Methods

We assessed nutritional parameters and run a bioelectrical impedance analysis in 226 women. Extracellular mass to body cell mass index, phase angle alpha, muscle mass, and fat mass were evaluated. To determine if patients suffer from sarcopenia, we ran the Timed ‘Up and Go’ test, performed hand grip strength, and calculated a skeletal muscle index. Postoperative complications were categorized using Clavien–Dindo Classification. Utilizing ROC analysis and logistic regression, we determined predictive clinical factors for severe postoperative complications. Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank test were used for overall survival analysis.

Results

Of the 226 female patients, 120 (53%) had a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, 56 (26%) had a phase angle < 4.75°, and 68 (32%) were sarcopenic according to skeletal muscle index < 27%. Within 30 days after surgery, 40 (18%) patients developed severe postoperative complications, and 4% had died. According to multivariable regression analysis, ECOG status > 1 (OR 4.56, 95% CI: 1.46–14.28, P = 0.009), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 (OR 8.22, 95% CI: 3.01–22.48, P < 0.001), phase angle < 4.75° (OR 3.95, 95% CI: 1.71–9.10, P = 0.001), and tumour stage ≥ III A (OR 3.65, 95% CI: 1.36–9.76, P = 0.01) were predictors of severe postoperative complications. During 59 months of follow‐up, 108 (48%) patients had died. According to multivariable Cox regression ECOG status > 1 (HR 2.51, 95% CI: 1.25–5.03, P = 0.01), hypoalbuminemia (HR 2.15, 95% CI: 1.28–3.59, P = 0.004), phase angle < 4.5° (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.07–2.90, P = 0.03), tumour stage ≥ III A (HR 2.61, 95% CI: 1.53–4.45, P < 0.001), and severe postoperative complications (HR 2.82, 95% CI: 1.80–4.41, P < 0.001) were predictors of overall mortality.

Conclusions

We observed that preoperatively assessed ECOG status > 1, BMI > 25 kg, as well as phase angle alpha < 4.75° and FIGO stage ≥ III A are significantly associated with severe postoperative complications within the first month. Whereas ECOG status > 1, hypoalbuminemia, phase angle < 4.5° as well as FIGO stage ≥ III A and severe postoperative complications within 30 days correlate significantly with poor overall survival.
Positionality practices and dimensions of impact on equity research: A collaborative inquiry and call to the community
Authors: Secules Stephen , McCall Cassandra , Mejia Joel Alejandro , Beebe Chanel , Masters Adam S. , L. Sánchez‐Peña Matilde , Svyantek Martina
Published: February 2021

Background

Many engineering education researchers acknowledge that their positionality impacts their research. Practices for reporting positionality vary widely and rarely incorporate a nuanced discussion of the impact of demographic identities on research. Researchers holding marginalized or relatively hidden identities must navigate additional layers regarding transparency of their positionality.

Purpose

We identify ways in which positionality impacts research, with a particular emphasis on demographic identity dimensions. We note that whether identities are relatively marginalized, privileged, hidden, or apparent in a research context creates complexities for conceptualizing, practicing, and disclosing one's positionality.

Method

In a collaborative inquiry informed by autoethnography, we assemble positionality reflections of current engineering education researchers to demonstrate the primary ways in which positionality impacts research.

Results

We find that positionality impacts six fundamental aspects of research: research topic, epistemology, ontology, methodology, relation to participants, and communication. These aspects of research delve deeper than conceptions of positionality as a methodological limitation, a measure to prevent bias, or a requirement for research quality.

Conclusion

The impact of positionality on research is complex, particularly when researchers occupy minoritized identities and for research topics that interrogate power relations between identity groups. By demonstrating the practices of interrogating and representing positionality, we hope to encourage more researchers to represent positionality transparently, thus making researchers' transparency safer for all. We argue that positionality is an important tool for reflecting on and dislocating privilege, particularly when working on equity research.
Genetic counselor approaches to BRCA1/2 direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing results
Authors: Burke Sarah , Mork Maureen , Qualmann Krista , Woodson Ashley , Jin Ha Min , Arun Banu , Kaulfus Meagan
Published: February 2021

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommends clinical‐grade genetic testing to confirm commercial results from direct‐to‐consumer genetic testing (DTC‐GT) companies and third‐party interpretation (TPI) services; however, the type of confirmatory testing that genetic counselors (GCs) recommend remains uncharacterized. Therefore, we aimed to describe GCs testing strategies for patients who have already obtained DTC‐GT results (23andMe) or TPI data (Promethease) that reported a BRCA1/2 pathogenic variant. We invited GCs specializing in clinical cancer genetics to complete an online survey distributed to members of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. The survey, completed by 80 respondents, contained case scenarios featuring probands with variable personal and family histories of cancer. Our results show that the majority of participating GCs have counseled patients for their health‐related commercial test results; 94% have encountered patient DTC‐GT reports (3 per year), and 69% have encountered patient TPI data (2 per year). Most participating GCs would recommend confirmatory clinical‐grade testing for probands with a positive 23andMe BRCA1/2 result (77/80, 96%). However, there was strong variability between the type of recommended testing. Approximately 20% recommended single‐site analysis, 11%–14% recommended the three Ashkenazi Jewish BRCA1/2 founder mutations, 4% recommended BRCA1/2 testing, and 61%–64% recommended multi‐gene panel testing. The most commonly recommended panels were split between a breast and gynecological cancer‐focused panel and a broad pan‐cancer panel. The majority of participants (98%–100%) would also recommend confirmatory testing for patients with positive TPI data for BRCA1/2. Similarly, results were mixed between those who recommended targeted, single‐site analysis (10%–15%) compared to a multi‐gene panel (72%–83%). These data show that while most GCs were uniform in their practice of recommending confirmatory testing, they are mixed in their approach to the specific type of testing they would select. These results may help inform counseling approaches and consensus for this expanding group of patients.
Benzodiazepine and zolpidem prescriptions during autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Banerjee Rahul , Lazar Ann A. , Dunn Lisa , Knoche Jennifer , Lo Mimi , Arora Shagun , Wong Sandy W. , Wolf Jeffrey L. , Martin Thomas G. , Dhruva Anand , Shah Nina
Published: February 2021

Multiple myeloma patients undergoing autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) may receive benzodiazepine or zolpidem‐class (B/Z) medications despite their risks in older patients. Of 205 myeloma patients (36% aged 65+) who underwent ASCT at our institution between 2017 and 2018, we found that B/Z prescription rates for anxiety/insomnia rose significantly from 26% before ASCT to 38% at discharge and 39% at Day +100. B/Z initiation while hospitalized was a strong predictor of B/Z persistence at Day +100. Our findings highlight the role of these potentially inappropriate medications during hospitalizations for ASCT, a period where nonpharmacologic strategies for managing anxiety/insomnia may be feasible.
Diagnosis value of SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen/antibody combined testing using rapid diagnostic tests at hospital admission
Authors: Veyrenche Nicolas , Bolloré Karine , Pisoni Amandine , Bedin Anne‐Sophie , Mondain Anne‐Marie , Ducos Jacques , Segondy Michel , Montes Brigitte , Pastor Patrick , Morquin David , Makinson Alain , Le Moing Vincent , Van de Perre Philippe , Foulongne Vincent , Tuaillon Edouard
Published: February 2021

The implementation of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) may enhance the efficiency of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) testing, as RDTs are widely accessible and easy to use. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of a diagnosis strategy based on a combination of antigen and immunoglobulin M (IgM) or immunoglobulin G (IgG) serological RDTs. Plasma and nasopharyngeal samples were collected between 14 March and 11 April 2020 at hospital admission from 45 patients with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) confirmed COVID‐19 and 20 negative controls. SARS‐CoV‐2 antigen (Ag) was assessed in nasopharyngeal swabs using the Coris Respi‐Strip. For IgM/IgG detection, SureScreen Diagnostics and Szybio Biotech RDTs were used in addition to laboratory assays (Abbott Alinity i SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG and Theradiag COVID‐19 IgM enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay). Using the Ag RDT, 13 out of 45 (29.0%) specimens tested positive, the sensitivity was 87.0% for cycle threshold (Ct) values ≤25% and 0% for Ct values greater than 25. IgG detection was associated with high Ct values and the amount of time after the onset of symptoms. The profile of isolated IgM on RDTs was more frequently observed during the first and second week after the onset of symptoms. The combination of Ag and IgM/IgG RDTs enabled the detection of up to 84.0% of COVID‐19 confirmed cases at hospital admission. Antigen and antibody‐based RDTs showed suboptimal performances when used alone. However when used in combination, they are able to identify most COVID‐19 patients admitted in an emergency department.
Meteorological cause and characteristics of widespread heavy precipitation in the Texas Gulf watershed 2003–2018
Authors: Mullens Esther D.
Published: February 2021

Recent pluvial years, extreme precipitation, and highly variable precipitation in the Southern Plains have produced substantial socioeconomic damage. While numerous studies examine the characteristics of heavy precipitation, explicit identification of meteorological ‘cause’ (e.g., thunderstorms, extratropical cyclones, weather fronts, etc.) is often excluded from climatological analyses. This work examines the meteorological cause and associated characteristics of widespread heavy precipitation (WHP) in the Texas‐Gulf watershed, using 16 years of weather observations and Stage IV multi‐sensor precipitation. WHP days are those with heavy rain (24‐hr accumulation at or above 95th percentile) that have spatial coverage and/or basin‐wide accumulations ≥90th percentile. Using expert assessment, WHP days and events (the latter as the total duration of distinct weather system in the watershed) are categorized into meteorological causes. WHP days possess longer durations and higher rain rates, and are important contributors to annual accumulation. Disaggregation of WHP days/events by cause reveals notable seasonal and interannual variability, with a tendency for frontal systems to dominate annually. Recent pluvial years have featured increased duration of frontal systems, while dry years showed a dearth of extratropical cyclones and summer mesoscale convection. While duration is statistically distinct between different cause categories for certain seasons and causes, rain‐rates generally were generally not found to depend on the event type. WHP events were accompanied by numerous meteorological and surface hazards, most notably severe thunderstorms during spring and summer, while the proportional contribution of flood hazard reports peaked during the fall. Ultimately, the climatological information extracted from this work may benefit researchers, planners, and water‐resource professionals dealing with precipitation extremes in the region.
Challenge for management without tracheostomy tube after laryngo‐tracheal separation in children with neurological disorders
Authors: Morimoto Noriko , Maekawa Takanobu , Kubota Masaya , Kitamura Masayuki , Takahashi Nozomi , Kubota Mitsuru
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The present study analyzed surgical outcomes of laryngotracheal separation (LTS) in children with neurological disorders. The purpose of this study was to investigate respiratory impairment and severe complications after LTS in children, and identify the possibility of permanent tracheostomy without a tracheostomy tube as the safest respiratory management method.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients (male:female = 16:12) with neurological disorders (6 months to 32 years) who underwent LTS between January 2012 and April 2018 were reviewed. Tracheal diameter, Cobb angle, and sternocervical spine distance (SCD) were measured to assess the potential risk and possibility of removing tracheostomy tube management.

Results

Tracheostomy tube could be removed shortly after LTS in 57% (16/28). However, nine of these patients developed respiratory problems that required tracheostomy tube placement 2 years after LTS. New requirements for a tracheostomy tube as a stent were strongly correlated with SCD (P < .05, odds ratio > 1) as well as tracheal deformity.

Conclusions

Respiratory management in neurologically impaired children after LTS without a tracheostomy tube is challenging because thoracic deformity during physical growth affects tracheal disfiguration. Thoracic deformities and progression of scoliosis should be considered in respiratory management approaches in children with neurological disorders, and long‐term follow‐up by computed tomography is necessary.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV
The effect of chemical species on the electrochemical reactions and corrosion product layer of carbon steel in CO2 aqueous environment: A review
Authors: Basilico Edoardo , Marcelin Sabrina , Mingant Remy , Kittel Jean , Fregonese Marion , Ropital Francois
Published: February 2021

This study summarizes the chemical effects that can occur during the corrosion process of carbon steel in a CO2‐saturated aqueous environment. Particularly, it focuses more on the results that small chemical contaminations in the environment have on the corrosion process. Underground waters present complex chemistry with several different dissolved ions (chlorides, carbonates) even in high concentrations that impact substantially the corrosion rates of these materials. Moreover, gas impurities present in the gas mixture, such as oxygen in carbon capture and storage applications, constitute a supplementary form of significant contamination in the CO2‐saturated aqueous environment. In particular, the effect on both electrochemical reactions and corrosion product layer is examined for several chemical species that are commonly present either in the gas mixture or in underground waters.
The Mutation Matters: CSF Profiles of GCase, Sphingolipids, α‐Synuclein in PDGBA
Authors: Lerche Stefanie , Schulte Claudia , Wurster Isabel , Machetanz Gerrit , Roeben Benjamin , Zimmermann Milan , Deuschle Christian , Hauser Ann‐Kathrin , Böhringer Judith , Krägeloh‐Mann Ingeborg , Waniek Katharina , Lachmann Ingolf , Petterson Xuan‐Mai T. , Chiang Ruby , Park Hyejung , Wang Bing , Liepelt‐Scarfone Inga , Maetzler Walter , Galasko Douglas , Scherzer Clemens R. , Gasser Thomas , Mielke Michelle M. , Hutten Samantha J. , Mollenhauer Brit , Sardi S. Pablo , Berg Daniela , Brockmann Kathrin
Published: February 2021

Background

With pathway‐specific trials in PD associated with variants in the glucocerebrosidase gene (PDGBA) under way, we need markers that confirm the impact of genetic variants in patient‐derived biofluids in order to allow patient stratification merely based on genetics and that might serve as biochemical read‐out for target engagement.

Objective

To explore GBA‐pathway‐specific biomarker profiles cross‐sectionally (TUEPAC‐MIGAP, PPMI) and longitudinally (PPMI).

Methods

We measured enzyme activity of the lysosomal glucocerebrosidase, CSF levels of glucosylceramides (upstream substrate of glucocerebrosidase), CSF levels of ceramides (downstream product of glucocerebrosidase), lactosylceramides, sphingosines, sphingomyelin (by‐products) and CSF levels of total α‐synuclein in PDGBA patients compared to PDGBA_wildtype patients.

Results

Cross‐sectionally in both cohorts and longitudinally in PPMI: (1) glucocerebrosidase activity was significantly lower in PDGBA compared to PDGBA_wildtype. (2) CSF levels of upstream substrates (glucosylceramides species) were higher in PDGBA compared to PDGBA_wildtype. (3) CSF levels of total α‐synuclein were lower in PDGBA compared to PDGBA_wildtype. All of these findings were most pronounced in PDGBA with severe mutations (PDGBA_severe). Cross‐sectionally in TUEPAC‐MIGAP and longitudinally in PPMI, CSF levels of downstream‐products (ceramides) were higher in PDGBA_severe. Cross‐sectionally in TUEPAC‐MIGAP by‐products sphinganine and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate and longitudinally in PPMI species of by‐products lactosylceramides and sphingomyelin were higher in PDGBA_severe.

Interpretation

These findings confirm that GBA mutations have a relevant functional impact on biomarker profiles in patients. Bridging the gap between genetics and biochemical profiles now allows patient stratification for clinical trials merely based on mutation status. Importantly, all findings were most prominent in PDGBA with severe variants. © 2021 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Field leaders call on Biden administration to move forward on BH agenda
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2021

With the Biden administration taking the helm and appointments to key positions being made, leaders in the field expressed a “call to action” for the new administration to address key concerns, such as the need for behavioral health workforce development, health and racial equity, the need for federal agency partnerships and a message that the behavioral health system needs to be transformed.
Centerstone offers simulation training in EBPs for clinicians
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2021

While there has been a rich body of evidence to support simulation training for professions such as aviation and the medical field, this type of learning and development technology had not made its way to behavioral health, where clinicians have historically relied on theory or role‐playing for training in evidence‐based practices (EBPs). That has now changed with the recent launch of what nonprofit behavioral health provider Centerstone is calling the world's first known simulation training for use by community behavioral health professionals.
Lie symmetry analysis for complex soliton solutions of coupled complex short pulse equation
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Wazwaz Abdul‐Majid
Published: February 2021

The current work is devoted for operating the Lie symmetry approach, to coupled complex short pulse equation. The method reduces the coupled complex short pulse equation to a system of ordinary differential equations with the help of suitable similarity transformations. Consequently, these systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations under each subalgeras are solved for traveling wave solutions. Further, with the help of similarity variable, similarity solutions and traveling wave solutions of nonlinear ordinary differential equation, complex soliton solutions of the coupled complex short pulse equation are obtained which are in the form of sinh, cosh, sin and cos functions.
An efficient numerical method for the solution of 2D variable order time fractional mobile–immobile advection–dispersion model
Authors: Saffarian Marziyeh , Mohebbi Akbar
Published: February 2021

In the literature, there are a few efficient numerical methods with stability and convergence analysis for the solution of variable order fractional partial differential equations in higher dimensions. In this work, we propose an efficient numerical method for the solution of two‐dimensional variable order time fractional mobile–immobile advection–dispersion model with spatially variable convection coefficient. At first, we discretize the time derivatives with a second‐order scheme. Then, we apply the Legendre spectral element method in spatial directions and obtain the fully discrete scheme. We prove that the semi‐discrete scheme is unconditionally stable and present an error estimate for the fully discrete scheme. The numerical results are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
Optimal control for fractional higher order damped stochastic impulsive systems
Authors: Priyadharsini J. , Balasubramaniam P.
Published: February 2021

In this manuscript, we examined the controllability and optimal control for fractional stochastic impulsive systems (SISs) with Poisson jumps in finite dimensional space. Some sufficient conditions for controllability results are obtained by using Darbo‐Sadovskii's theorem for higher order damped stochastic system. General conditions are established to study the existence of optimal control for the considered Lagrange problem (LP).
New blow‐up conditions to p‐Laplace type nonlinear parabolic equations under nonlinear boundary conditions
Authors: Chung Soon‐Yeong , Hwang Jaeho
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we study blow‐up phenomena of the following p‐Laplace type nonlinear parabolic equations

under nonlinear mixed boundary conditions

and
on Γ2 × (0, t∗) such that
, where f and h are real‐valued C1‐functions. To discuss blow‐up solutions, we introduce new conditions: For each x ∈ Ω, z ∈ ∂Ω, t > 0, u > 0, and v > 0,

for some constants α, β1, β2, γ1, γ2, and δ satisfying

where
,
,
, and
. Here, λR is the first Robin eigenvalue and λS is the first Steklov eigenvalue for the p‐Laplace operator, respectively.
Physiotherapists' awareness, knowledge and confidence in screening and referral of suspected axial spondyloarthritis: A survey of UK clinical practice
Authors: Steen Eliza , McCrum Carol , Cairns Melinda
Published: February 2021

Background

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is an inflammatory disease associated with significant diagnostic delays and is commonly missed in assessments of persistent back pain.

Objective

To explore musculoskeletal physiotherapists' awareness, knowledge and confidence in screening for signs, symptoms and risk factors of suspected axSpA and criteria for rheumatology referral.

Design

An online UK survey was undertaken combining back pain vignettes (reflecting axSpA, non‐specific back pain and radicular syndrome) and questioning on features of suspected axSpA. Recruitment utilised online professional forums and social media. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and conceptual content analysis for free text responses.

Results

132 survey responses were analysed. Only 67% (88/132) of respondents identified inflammatory pathologies as a possible cause of persistent back pain. Only 60% (79/132) recognised the axSpA vignette compared to non‐specific low back pain (94%) and radicular syndrome (80%). Most suspecting axSpA would refer for specialist assessment (77/79; 92%). Awareness of national referral guidance was evident in only 50% of ‘clinical reasoning’ and 20% of ‘further subjective screening’ responses. There was misplaced confidence in recognising clinical features of axSpA (≥7/10) compared to knowledge levels shown, including high importance given to inflammatory markers and human leucocyte antigen B27 (median = 8/10).

Conclusions

Musculoskeletal physiotherapists may not be giving adequate consideration to axSpA in back pain assessments. Awareness of national referral guidance was also limited. Professional education on screening and referral for suspected axSpA is needed to make axSpA screening and referral criteria core knowledge in musculoskeletal clinical practice, supporting earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
Enumerating Predation on Chinook Salmon, Delta Smelt, and Other San Francisco Estuary Fishes Using Genetics
Authors: Brandl Scott , Schreier Brian , Conrad J. Louise , May Bernie , Baerwald Melinda
Published: February 2021

The establishment of nonnative predatory fish species is a worldwide phenomenon often having adverse effects on native species. Trophic interactions are complex, and uncertainty is a common theme in discussions of nonnative predator management. Several fishes of the San Francisco Estuary have experienced significant declines in recent decades due to multiple factors, including habitat alteration and predation. The role of predation as a direct cause of mortality remains an open question, as does whether habitat conditions play a role in promoting predation on species of concern. Recent studies using visual identification of prey have found little to no evidence of predation on species listed under the Endangered Species Act such as Delta Smelt Hypomesus transpacificus and juvenile Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha. To increase the likelihood of detecting predation, this study employed a genetic approach. We combined this technique with habitat and water quality data to investigate the role that habitat may be playing on incidence of predation. This study focused on detection of predation on Chinook Salmon and Delta Smelt, six other native fish species, and six nonnative fish species by Striped Bass Morone saxatilis and other piscivores. Unlike previous studies in the region, the proportion of predators with no prey detected in their gut contents was high (47–81%). The study detected Delta Smelt in 1.3% of Striped Bass—considerably higher than other contemporary predation studies in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta. In April 2014, 6.6% of Striped Bass were positive for Chinook Salmon—substantially higher than observed in recent visual diet studies. Interestingly, native species comprised a relatively high proportion of Striped Bass prey (60%). Water temperature and conductivity were identified as significant predictors of Chinook Salmon presence in Striped Bass gut contents. This research also suggests that predation on soft-bodied prey may be an overlooked segment of the diets of piscivores.
Isolation of exfoliated boron nitride nanotubes via ethyl cellulose wrapping
Authors: De los Reyes Florencio D. , Fujieda Tadashi , Takeuchi Akifumi , Kawai Tsuyoshi , Nonoguchi Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2021

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are simultaneously isolated and dispersed in organic solvents using a non‐aromatic and highly flexible polymer ethyl cellulose (EC). The colloidal dispersion containing individualized EC‐wrapped BNNTs is stabilized via non‐covalent functionalization through CH‐π and OH‐π interactions between EC and BNNTs. FESEM, TEM, UV‐VIS, FT‐IR, and TG analyses confirm the efficiency of using a simplified and less destructive method without prior heat treatment to enhance the purity and dispersibility of BNNTs in our designed system. This provides a practical approach to the purification and dispersion of BNNTs from a bulk‐produced source, for the fabrication of materials that require large amount of high‐quality BNNTs.
Beliefs, attitudes and knowledge of cardiovascular healthcare providers on mobilization
Authors: Najjar Caroline , Dima Diana , de Boer Jane , Goldfarb Michael
Published: February 2021

Aim

To assess the beliefs, attitudes and knowledge of nurses, physicians and physiotherapists in a cardiovascular intensive care unit (CICU) on patient mobilization.

Design

Survey of CV healthcare providers in the CICU at two academic tertiary care hospitals.

Methods

The validated Patient Mobilization Attitudes and Beliefs Survey was distributed to CV providers. The survey is a 26‐item self‐administered questionnaire that assesses providers' perceived barriers in three domains: attitude, behaviour and knowledge.

Results

Participants (N = 142) completed the survey (nurses, N = 67, physicians, N = 59 and physiotherapists, N = 16; 155 eligible participants, 91.6% overall completion rate). Nurses had lower overall knowledge, attitude and behaviour barriers to mobilization than physicians, but higher than physiotherapists (all p < .001). The highest barriers to mobilization for nurses were adequate staffing, patient‐level and time restraint. These findings should inform efforts to overcome existing barriers and to transform acute cardiovascular mobility culture.