bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with diagnosis of stages I and II lung cancer: a multivariate analysis
Authors: Emmerick Isabel Cristina Martins , Singh Anupama , Powers Maggie , Lou Feiran , Lin Poliana , Maxfield Mark , Uy Karl
Published: March 2022

OBJECTIVE To present the overall survival rate for lung cancer and identify the factors associated with early diagnosis of stage I and II lung cancer. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study including individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, from January 2009 to December 2017, according to the cancer registry at UMass Memorial Medical Center. Five-year overall survival and its associated factors were identified by Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox’s proportional hazards model. Factors associated with diagnosing clinical stage I and II lung cancer were identified by bivariate and multivariate backward stepwise logistic regression (Log-likelihood ratio (LR)) at 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The study was conducted with data on 2730 individuals aged 67.9 years on average, 51.5% of whom female, 92.3% white, and 6.6% never smoked. Five-year overall survival was 21%. Individuals diagnosed with early-stage disease had a 43% five-year survival rate compared to 8% for those diagnosed at late stages. Stage at diagnosis was the main factor associated with overall survival [HR = 4.08 (95%CI: 3.62–4.59)]. Factors associated with early diagnosis included patients older than 68 years [OR = 1.23 (95%CI: 1.04–1.45)], of the female gender [OR = 1.47 (95%CI: 1.24–1.73)], white [OR = 1.63 (95%CI: 1.16–2.30)], and never-smokers [OR = 1.37 (95%CI: 1.01–1.86)]; as well as tumors affecting the upper lobe [OR = 1.46 (95%CI: 1.24–1.73)]; adenocarcinoma [OR = 1.43 (95%CI: 1.21–1.69)]; and diagnosis after 2014 [OR = 1.61 (95%CI: 1.37–1.90)]. CONCLUSIONS Stage at diagnosis was the most decisive predictor for survival. Non-white and male individuals were more likely to be diagnosed at a late stage. Thus, promoting lung cancer early diagnosis by improving access to health care is vital to enhance overall survival for individuals with lung cancer.
Virtual Transcatheter Interventions for Peripheral Pulmonary Artery Stenosis in Williams and Alagille Syndromes
Authors: Lan Ingrid S. , Yang Weiguang , Feinstein Jeffrey A. , Kreutzer Jacqueline , Collins R. Thomas , Ma Michael , Adamson Gregory T. , Marsden Alison L.
Published: March 2022

Background

Despite favorable outcomes of surgical pulmonary artery (PA) reconstruction, isolated proximal stenting of the central PAs is common clinical practice for patients with peripheral PA stenosis in association with Williams and Alagille syndromes. Given the technical challenges of PA reconstruction and the morbidities associated with transcatheter interventions, the hemodynamic consequences of all treatment strategies must be rigorously assessed. Our study aims to model, assess, and predict hemodynamic outcomes of transcatheter interventions in these patients.

Methods and Results

Isolated proximal and “extensive” interventions (stenting and/or balloon angioplasty of proximal and lobar vessels) were performed in silico on 6 patient‐specific PA models. Autoregulatory adaptation of the cardiac output and downstream arterial resistance was modeled in response to intervention‐induced hemodynamic perturbations. Postintervention computational fluid dynamics predictions were validated in 2 stented patients and quantitatively assessed in 4 surgical patients. Our computational methods accurately predicted postinterventional PA pressures, the primary indicators of success for treatment of peripheral PA stenosis. Proximal and extensive treatment achieved median reductions of 14% and 40% in main PA systolic pressure, 27% and 56% in pulmonary vascular resistance, and 10% and 45% in right ventricular stroke work, respectively.

Conclusions

In patients with Williams and Alagille syndromes, extensive transcatheter intervention is required to sufficiently reduce PA pressures and right ventricular stroke work. Transcatheter therapy was shown to be ineffective for long‐segment stenosis and pales hemodynamically in comparison with published outcomes of surgical reconstruction. Regardless of the chosen strategy, a virtual treatment planning platform could identify lesions most critical for optimizing right ventricular afterload.
Association of HIV Serostatus and Inflammation With Ascending Aortic Size
Authors: Minhas Anum S. , Post Wendy S. , Liu Bin , Doria De Vasconcellos Henrique , Haberlen Sabina A. , Feinstein Matthew , Stosor Valentina , Budoff Matthew , Chew Kara W. , Magnani Jared W. , Brown Todd , Lima Joao A. C. , Wu Katherine C.
Published: March 2022

Background

The prevalence and extent of subclinical large vessel vasculopathy is not well defined among people living with HIV. We aimed to evaluate associations between aortic root and ascending aortic sizes measured by 2‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography and HIV serostatus, and to identify risk factors for larger aortic sizes among men with HIV, including levels of circulating inflammatory markers.

Methods and Results

Using clinical and echocardiographic data from the MACS (Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study), adjusted multivariable linear and logistic regression was performed. Four segments of the proximal aorta were measured: aortic annulus, aortic root at the sinuses of Valsalva, sinotubular junction, and ascending aorta. HIV infection was associated with significantly larger aortic root (0.03 cm [95% CI, 0.002–0.06 cm]) and ascending aorta (0.04 cm [95% CI, 0.01–0.06 cm]) diameters. Higher standardized nadir CD4 (cluster of differentiation 4) T‐cell count was significantly associated with smaller aortic root (−0.03 cm [95% CI, −0.05 to −0.01 cm]), sinotubular junction (−0.03 cm [95% CI, −0.05 to −0.01 cm]), and ascending aorta (−0.03 cm [95% CI, −0.05 to −0.004 cm]) diameters. Higher levels of standardized TNF‐α (tumor necrosis factor‐α) were associated with larger diameters of the aortic annulus (0.02 cm [95% CI, 0.003–0.04 cm]) and sinotubular junction (0.02 cm [95% CI, 0.002–0.04 cm]). There were no other cardiovascular or HIV disease severity–related risk factors associated with the aortic dimensions.

Conclusions

HIV infection is an independent risk factor for greater ascending aortic sizes. Lower nadir CD4 T‐cell count and higher TNF‐α levels are associated with larger aortic sizes in men with HIV.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT00046280.
Estimating and Testing Causal Mediation Effects in Single-Case Experimental Designs Using State-Space Modeling
Authors: Langenberg Benedikt , Wurpts Ingrid C. , Geuke Gemma G. M. , Onghena Patrick
Published: March 2022

In this article, we present single-case causal mediation analysis as the application of causal mediation analysis to data collected within a single-case experiment. This method combines the focus on the individual with the focus on mechanisms of change, rendering it a promising approach for both mediation and single-case researchers. For this purpose, we propose a new method based on time-discrete state-space modeling to estimate the direct and indirect treatment effects. We demonstrate how to estimate the model for a single-case experiment on stress and craving in a routine alcohol consumer before and after an imposed period of abstinence. Furthermore, we present a simulation study that examines the estimation and testing of the standardized indirect effect. All parameters used to generate the data were recovered with acceptable precision. We use maximum likelihood and permutation procedures to calculate p-values and standard errors of the parameters estimates. The new method is promising for testing mediated effects in single-case experimental designs. We further discuss limitations of the new method with respect to causal inference, as well as more technical concerns, such as the choice of the time lags between the measurements.
Prevalence and Correlates of Insomnia Symptoms in Older Chinese Adults During the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Classification Tree Analysis
Authors: Xu Yan-Min , Li Chao , Zhu Ruizi , Zhong Bao-Liang
Published: March 2022

Objective

To examine prevalence and correlates of insomnia symptoms in older Chinese adults (OCAs) during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, insomnia is a major health concern of elderly individuals, but its subtypes have not been investigated.

Methods

Altogether, 590 OCAs (50+ years) were recruited via snowball sampling during the COVID-19 outbreak. Standardized self-report questions were used to assess the presence of difficulty initiating sleep (DIS), difficulty maintaining sleep (DMS), and early morning awakening (EMA). Classification tree analysis (CTA) was used to identify correlates of insomnia.

Results

The one-month prevalence (95% confidence interval) of any subtype of insomnia symptoms was 23.4% (20.0–26.8%), with DIS, DMS, and EMA being 15.4% (12.5–18.3%), 17.1% (14.1–20.2%), and 11.2% (8.64–13.7%), respectively. Worry about being infected with COVID-19 emerged as the most salient correlate of insomnia ( P < .001); compared to participants who were not worried about being infected, those who were worried and very worried were 3.2-fold (24.3% vs 7.5%) and 5.5-fold (24.3% vs 7.5%) more likely to have insomnia, respectively. Among participants in the “very worried” branch, those residing in Wuhan were 1.8-fold more likely to have insomnia than those residing in other places (50.0% vs 27.5%, P = .011). Among participants in the “worried” branch, unemployed persons were 2.0-fold more likely to have insomnia than employed persons (37.0% vs 18.1%, P < .001).

Conclusions

Insomnia symptoms were prevalent among OCAs during the COVID-19 outbreak. Selective intervention programs targeting elderly individuals who are worried about being infected, living in the epicenter of COVID-19, and unemployed might be effective.
Explaining the Psychosocial Effects of COVID-19 Among Older Hong Kong Chinese People—A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Sit Regina W.-S. , Lai Harmony Hoi Ki , Dong Dong , Wang Bo , Wong Martin Chi-sang , Chung Roger Yat-Nork , Wong Samuel Y.-S.
Published: March 2022

Background

Social distancing and “stay-at-home” orders are essential to contain the coronavirus outbreak; however, there are growing concerns about physical and other mental distress in older people. Apart from quantitative data, their feelings, thoughts, and experience are essential to inform the implementation of patient-centered health care policy.

Aim

This study explained the psychosocial effects of COVID-19 on Hong Kong Chinese older people.

Design and Setting

This was a qualitative study. Twenty-three participants aged between 63 and 86 were recruited in primary care through purposive sampling.

Method

Semi-structured in-depth telephone interviews were conducted to explore participants’ experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grounded theory was used to analyze the data.

Results

Three themes, nine subthemes, and 24 quotes were identified. The 3 themes included the psychological response of fear, annoyance, and worrisome; social isolation leading to loneliness and physical exhaustion; and the coping strategies in adversity. Fear was the major emotional response, which was not entirely explained by the uncertainty of the disease, but also the embedded routines norms and values. Loneliness was aggravated by the depleted family and community support. Physical distancing had intensified ones physical demand on self-care, especially among those with comorbid illnesses. The use of digital tools and telecommunications maintained the social connection, but the overexposure had led to a vicious cycle of anxiety and distress.

Conclusion

Self-isolation has disproportionately affected older individuals whose only social contact is out of the home. Online technologies can be harnessed to provide social support networks and a sense of belonging, but its adaptive and positive uses should be encouraged. Interventions can also involve more frequent telephone contact with significant others, close family and friends, voluntary organizations, or health-care professionals, or community outreach teams. Enhancing the values of older people’s in calamity through active engagement may also potentially reduce the detrimental effect of social isolation.
Preparation and performance of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) membranes enhanced with ammonium ionic liquid and graphene oxide
Authors: Song Jinxun , Sun Lijun , Duan Jihai , Wang Weiwen , Qu Shuguo
Published: March 2022

The exploration of proton exchange membranes with excellent performance has always been under focus for improving the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. In this study, novel ternary composite proton exchange membranes based on sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK), triethylamine phosphate (TEAP) as the ammonium ionic liquid (AIL), and graphene oxide (GO) were prepared. The prepared membranes were characterized for their physical, physico-chemical, structural, morphological, thermal, mechanical, and electrical characteristics. The thermal stability of the SPEEK membrane was improved by the addition of GO and TEAP. GO was inserted into the composite membrane to form proton transfer channels. The amine ions in AIL formed acid–base pairs with the sulfonic acid group, whereas the oxygen-containing group on GO formed hydrogen bonds with the phosphate group. These groups interacted with each other to form a honeycomb-like structure, which anchored the AIL in the membrane and reduced its loss, providing additional sites for proton transport at higher temperatures. The proton conductivity of the SPEEK/AIL/GO-2 membrane reached 17.345 mS/cm at 120°C, which was 2.09 times higher than that of the pristine SPEEK membrane. This study provides the possibility for better preparation of proton exchange membranes used for high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells.
Functional observer design using the direct method for discrete time-varying linear systems
Authors: Hamdoun Meriem , Ben Abdallah Mohamed , Ayadi Mounir , Rotella Frédéric , Zambettakis Iréne
Published: March 2022

In this article, an algorithm for designing functional state observers for linear discrete time-varying systems using the direct approach is proposed. Both the single function and the multiple functions of the states are studied. The design method is simple, and it is based neither on the solution of the generalised Sylvester equation that appears in the existence conditions nor on canonical system transformations. This algorithm is explained through a detailed example.
Tourism pressure as a driver of social inequalities: a BSEM estimation of housing instability in European urban areas
Authors: Valente Riccardo , Russo Antonio Paolo , Vermeulen Susan , Milone Francesco Luigi
Published: March 2022

There is a certain agreement in the regional economics literature on tourism development as a lever of territorial cohesion and regional convergence. Yet, evidence about its impact on social inclusion within destination regions is scant. The emerging literature placing tourism development as a driver of inequality relies mostly on qualitative methods and individual case studies, thus overlooking a cross-national perspective. In this article, we address this gap by estimating the impacts of tourism growth between 2013 and 2018 on housing instability through its effects on rents and the perceived financial burden of housing costs. Based on a combination of data sourced from Eurostat and a geo-located dataset of Airbnb listings, a Bayesian path analysis model was specified with a sample of densely populated areas in 85 European regions. Results reveal the controversial influence of tourism on urban destinations, indicating how the increase in the number of visitors may benefit mean incomes and relieve the pressure on housing costs, while at the same time, driving a higher dispersion of income and residential displacement. A clear difference is established between homeowners and tenants to this regard: the former can use the opportunities of rent extraction in the platform economy to withstand the economic pressure of tourism, while the latter are more exposed to the risk of having to leave their homes.
Parametric study on the dynamic aeroelastic analysis of a two-stage axially deploying telescopic wing
Authors: Moravej Barzani Sayed Hossein , Shahverdi Hossein , Amoozgar Mohammadreza
Published: March 2022

In this paper, the flutter instability of a conventional two-stage axially moving telescopic UAV wing is investigated. To this aim, and to be as close as possible to the reality, the effects of temporal variation of mass and length, due to the movement of stages and their overlapping, along with the effects of morphing speed are considered for the first time. The bending-torsional dynamics of the two-stage wing is modeled by modifying the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory to take into account the effects of morphing speed and variations of mass and length. Furthermore, the aerodynamic loads are simulated using Peters' unsteady aerodynamic model. The governing aeroelastic equations are discretized using a finite element approach, and a length-based stability analysis is proposed to investigate the aeroelasticity of the wing. The obtained results are compared with those available in the literature, and a good agreement is observed. It is found that the aeroelastic stability of a telescopic wing is more sensitive to the fixed part parameters than the moving part. Also, it is shown that the wing critical length is sensitive to the morphing speed. Therefore, by selecting the telescopic wing morphing parameters properly, the aeroelastic stability of the system can significantly be improved.
Assessing the ability of regions to attract foreign tourists: The case of Italy
Authors: Algieri Bernardina , Álvarez Antonio
Published: March 2022

This study examines the ability of Italian regions to attract foreign tourists and the factors influencing the choice of regional destinations using a novel Stochastic Frontier Demand Model. The results show that several factors including climate, seasonality, cultural heritage and infrastructures influence tourism performance. Easy accessibility to World Heritage Sites drives international tourism demand too. On average, Southern regions lie below the stochastic frontier and are inefficient, while Northern regions tend to be efficient. Calabria, Sardinia and Molise have a low ability to entice foreign tourists, while Veneto maximizes the number of tourist arrivals, overnight stays and expenditures.

JEL Classification: C51; R11; Z32.
‘Someone like-minded in a big place’: Autistic young adults’ attitudes towards autistic peer support in mainstream education
Authors: Crompton Catherine J , Hallett Sonny , Axbey Harriet , McAuliffe Christine , Cebula Katie
Published: March 2022

Autistic young people in mainstream schools often experience low levels of peer social support, have negative perceptions of their differences and feel disconnected from their school community. Previous research findings have suggested that encouraging autistic young people to explore autistic culture and spending time with autistic peers may be associated with more positive outcomes. Autism-specific peer support is a framework that may support this process. Thirteen participants (eight male/five female) completed semi-structured interviews, exploring the idea of autism-specific peer support within mainstream schools and the practicalities of how it may work within a school setting. Thematic analysis was applied, and three themes are reported: (1) neurodiversity and an ethos of inclusivity, (2) flexibility and (3) benefits and challenges of embedding peer support in the wider school community. The idea of autism-specific peer support for autistic pupils in mainstream secondary schools was generally positively received. Peer support may provide a unique opportunity for autistic pupils to interact in a natural, comfortable way; share useful strategies; and build their identities. Nevertheless, careful design, training and ongoing support, alongside awareness of the rights, needs and preferences of individual pupils involved are likely to be crucial in ensuring the success of any peer support programme.

Lay abstract

Autistic young people may struggle in mainstream schools and feel disconnected from their peers and their school. We know that autistic adults can benefit from spending time with other autistic people, but we don’t know if this is the case for younger autistic people. We conducted interviews with 13 autistic young adults in the United Kingdom who recently left mainstream schooling. We asked them if they would have been interested in being involved in autistic peer support when they were at school, and if so, what that peer support should look like. Results indicated that autistic young people were enthusiastic about the idea of peer support. They thought it was important that peer support was flexible to suit their needs at different times, as well as inclusive, positive, and embracing neurodiversity. They also discussed the potential benefits and difficulties of having a peer support system within a school setting. This adds to the growing body of research on the potential benefits of autistic-autistic interactions on autistic people’s well-being and sense of belonging. Findings can be used to help design pilot peer support projects in schools that can be tested to see how effective they are.
Effect of the cover factor on the tensile properties of multi-core flax/polypropylene micro-braided hybrid yarns for thermoplastic biocomposites
Authors: Zhai Wenqian , Wang Peng , Soulat Damien , Legrand Xavier
Published: March 2022

With the growing popularity of hybrid yarn techniques, the micro-braided yarn is becoming a good choice as one kind of intermediate materials for thermoplastic biocomposites, by presenting favorable morphology during the preform process and lowering the resin flow distance during the thermo-compression process. In this article, different flax/polypropylene (PP) based multi-core micro-braided hybrid yarns with the similar total number of flax core fibers were manufactured, by varying the parameters: multi-core configuration and braiding angle; both dry-and thermo- states tensile tests on yarns were carried out, since it is necessary to simulate the deforming behavior of a single hybrid yarn during the thermoforming process. The objective is to determine the cover factor especially for multi-core micro-braided yarn as a comprehensive textile indicator; and to study the influence of the cover factor parameters on mechanical tensile properties at the yarn scale. It has been observed that the cover factor parameters contributed the braider effect (friction and compression) on flax cores in the dry-state and lubricant effect (distribution and viscosity) in the thermo-state; further influenced the characterizations. Increasing multi-core configuration and braiding angle can both increase the tensile strength; larger cover factor results in greater tensile stiffness both in dry-and thermo-states.
Fabrication and evaluation of aramid fiber/polytetrafluoroethylene emulsion/tourmaline particle composite filter media: Filtration performance, thermal behavior, and mechanical property
Authors: Lv Chao , Cheng Jiao , Shen Ruiqing , Zhang Shu , Shu Rui , Li Guodong , Liu Jingxian
Published: March 2022

An electrostatically enhanced aramid fiber/polytetrafluoroethylene emulsion/tourmaline particle (AF/PTFE/TM) composite filter media was successfully designed and fabricated by impregnation technology, especially for harsh industrial environment with high temperature. The AF/PTFE/TM composite filter media exhibited the optimum quality factor when the concentration of PTFE emulsion was 10% and the content of TM particles was 12.5 g/cm2. The collection efficiency, pressure drop characteristic, thermal decomposition behavior and kinetics, and tensile strength in machine and cross directions of the composite filter media have been systematically evaluated. Benefiting from the pyroelectricity and piezoelectricity of TM particles, the composite filter media has better collection efficiency with the increase of incoming air temperature. With the increase of flow velocity, the decrease of collection efficiency is smaller than the filter media without TM particles. Meanwhile, the pressure drop across the composite filter media is a little higher than that across the raw filter media. Additionally, it was found PTFE emulsion coating can improve the thermal stability and tensile strength of the composite filter media. TM particles have no negative impact on the thermal behavior of the composite filter media, but slightly attenuates the enhancement in tensile strength. This study provides new insight into the application of TM particles as well as other pyroelectric and piezoelectric materials in industrial filtration.
Characteristics of lift and resistance of spherical wall in semi-unbounded flow field
Authors: Zou He , Wang Qi Kun , Xue Zhuang Zhuang
Published: March 2022

The dynamic characteristics of the wall lift and drag of the rigid sphere moving parallel to the single wall surface in the static viscosity laminar flow field are numerically studied, on the basis of the three-dimensional numerical simulation method of the quasi-steady “relativity of motion.” The results show that: (1) The wall surface acts to increase the drag; (2) On the near wall, the lift coefficient decreases as the Reynolds number between the sphere and the wall increase when Re <  100. However, when Re >  100, the lift coefficient increases sharply; (3) On the far wall, there is no wall effect when Re >  10, consistent with the unbounded flow, but the wall effect still exists when Re <  10; and (4) The particle rotation has few influences on drag but slightly increases the lift. And the lift induced by rotation is mainly determined by the surrounding fluid pressure. These results all contribute to the study of the hydrodynamic behavior of particles in the boundary and deepen the understanding of the phenomenon of particle transport in the wall effect layer.
Mechanism analysis and dynamic model construction of intermittent fault of weak-current aviation cable under vibration stress
Authors: Lyu Kehong , Li Qiang , Zhu Zunqing , Qiu Jing , Liu Guanjun
Published: March 2022

Aviation cables are widely used in modern avionic devices, and are called the “vessel” of electronic equipment. As the stress environment of modern avionic devices become more complex, the intermittent fault of aviation cables under the vibration stress has received more attention. Aiming at the analysis of the mechanism of intermittent fault and the construction of dynamic models, the relationship between cable damage changes and DC resistance in the absence of vibration stress was analyzed. On this basis, the mechanism of intermittent fault of weak-current cable under vibration stress was analyzed by comprehensively considering the effect of vibration stress. Combined with the test data, the dynamic model of intermittent fault of fully damaged cable and conductor-damaged cable under vibration stress was constructed. Finally, two types of dynamic models were experimentally verified. The results indicated that the dynamic model of the weak-current cable under the vibration stress could well reflect the dynamic characteristics of its intermittent fault and that the performance of cables with different damage states under vibration stress are obviously different.
Obtaining elemental sulfur for Martian sulfur concrete
Authors: Barkatt Aaron , Okutsu Masataka
Published: March 2022

A potential candidate material for the construction of Mars habitats is concrete made from the Martian regolith and sulfur extracted from the regolith itself. Sulfur concrete, which has excellent mechanical properties, can be prepared at a low temperature (<150 °) and without water (unlike Portland-cement concrete). The surface of Mars has a much higher concentration of sulfur than those of the Earth, the Moon, or the asteroids. Sulfur on Mars, however, exists not as elemental sulfur—which is needed in concrete production—but as sulfates (usually hydrated) and sulfides. This paper surveys thermochemical and electrochemical methods that might be used to produce elemental sulfur from its compounds contained in the minerals on Mars. Possible methods include chemical or electrochemical oxidation or decomposition of sulfides, which include sulfides that exist naturally on Mars as well as sulfides that are produced via chemical or electrochemical reduction of sulfates. Some of the methods to obtain elemental sulfur—such as chemical or electrochemical oxidation or decomposition of metal sulfides or hydrogen sulfide—have already been demonstrated. The methods of producing elemental sulfur from sulfur-containing minerals on Mars will have the added benefit of generating byproducts (e.g. water, hydrogen, oxygen, and metals) that are useful for explorations of the Red Planet. In the future, chemical processes for the production of elemental sulfur may also have important industrial applications on Earth.
Policy Discourse Among the Chinese Public on Initiatives for Cultural and Creative Industries: Text Mining Analysis
Authors: Park Sang Do
Published: March 2022

China’s cultural policy has shifted from a government-driven direction to a model centered on marketization development model. The economic value of culture has come to be seen as the main engine of growth for national development; moreover, cultural and creative industries (CCIs) have been strategically fostered. Here, in place of a unilateral top-down method imposed by the government, a marketization development model has been promoted to actively accommodate the policy discourse presented by cultural creators/consumers. China’s CCI policy discourse may indicate the policy direction necessary to develop itself into a cultural powerhouse. In this study, policy discourse is collected and analyzed for keywords of China’s CCIs from 2006 to 2020. Text mining and network analysis were performed, and the main results are as follows. First, it was found that China’s CCI policy discourse has been gaining traction; its centers appear to be found within large cities with rich cultural infrastructure, where major cultural projects are discovered and promoted, and Chinese culture is being globalized. Second, the items/contents of the Chinese CCIs are diversifying and developing into a human-friendly Chinese-style cultural and creative industry model that values experience. This should be noted to help guide the future direction of China’s cultural policy. Finally, it is necessary to adjust industrial concentrations and regional development imbalances because of the acceleration of industrial clusters in CCIs.
Evaluation of Monoclonal Antibodies in Preventing Hospitalizations, Emergency Department Visits, and Mortality in High-Risk COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Milam Ashlee N. , Doan Diana T. , Childress Darrell T. , Durham Spencer H.
Published: March 2022

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a novel coronavirus that has caused an unprecedented global pandemic, with few treatment options currently available. Neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are a promising treatment approach to reduce hospitalizations in high-risk patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 infections.

Objective

The primary objective is to compare hospitalization rates of high-risk patients who tested positive for COVID-19 within 28 days between those who received mAb infusions versus those who did not. Secondary objectives were emergency department (ED) visits and mortality within 28 days of a positive test.

Methods

This single-center, institutional review board–approved, retrospective, observational cohort study included patients aged 19 years and older who tested positive for COVID-19 between December 2, 2020 and February 28, 2021. Patients who received the mAbs bamlanivimab or casirivimab/imdevimab were compared with patients who did not receive mAb infusions to examine hospitalization rates, ED visits, and mortality within 28 days of the positive COVID-19 test.

Results

A total of 2780 patients were evaluated for inclusion using electronic chart review via Cerner. Of the 1612 patients who met inclusion criteria, 568 received an mAb infusion (mAb group) and 1044 did not (non-mAb group). Baseline characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. Of the patients in the mAb group, 34 (6%) were hospitalized versus 397 (38%) in the non-mAb group. Patients with ED visits included 111 (20%) and 672 (64%) in the mAb and non-mAb groups, respectively. Finally, 5 patients in the mAb group experienced mortality (0.9%) versus 83 (8%) in the non-mAb group. Each endpoint achieved statistical significance with a P value of <0.0001.

Conclusion

Monoclonal antibody infusions are effective in preventing hospitalization, ED visits, and mortality in high-risk patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19.
Influence of Device Geometry and Imperfections on the Interpretation of Transverse Magnetic Focusing Experiments
Authors: Lee Yik Kheng , Smith Jackson S. , Cole Jared H.
Published: March 2022

Spatially separating electrons of different spins and efficiently generating spin currents are crucial steps towards building practical spintronics devices. Transverse magnetic focusing is a potential technique to accomplish both those tasks. In a material where there is significant Rashba spin–orbit interaction, electrons of different spins will traverse different paths in the presence of an external magnetic field. Experiments have demonstrated the viability of this technique by measuring conductance spectra that indicate the separation of spin-up and spin-down electrons. However the effect that the geometry of the leads has on these measurements is not well understood. By simulating an InGaAs-based transverse magnetic focusing device, we show that the resolution of features in the conductance spectra is affected by the shape, separation and width of the leads. Furthermore, the number of subbands occupied by the electrons in the leads affects the ratio between the amplitudes of the spin-split peaks in the spectra. We simulated devices with random onsite potentials and observed that transverse magnetic focusing devices are sensitive to disorder. Ultimately we show that careful choice and characterisation of device geometry are crucial for correctly interpreting the results of transverse magnetic focusing experiments.
Simultaneous interfacility transfer of multiple non-critically ill COVID-19 patients using a single vehicle: the ambulance bus experience
Authors: Barten Dennis G. , van Zijl Remco , Körver Frank W. J. , Peters Nathalie A. L. R.
Published: March 2022

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital capacity in the Netherlands has been pushed to its limits. In order to prevent hospitals from collapse due to capacity issues, hospitalized COVID-19 patients were redistributed throughout the country. The numerous individual interfacility transfers further increased the pressure on emergency medical services (EMS), which simultaneously had to serve the community during the pandemic. In this report, we evaluate the interfacility transport of multiple non-critically ill COVID-19 patients using one single vehicle: a coach converted into an ambulance bus.

Discussion

Between March 28, 2020, and July 17, 2021, the ambulance bus was dispatched 22 times. In total, 102 patients were transferred over a mean distance of 79.6 km. No technical or patient-related adverse events were reported. The primary benefits of the ambulance bus were its time and staff reducing potential, as well as the ability to provide relief to overwhelmed hospitals. Furthermore, it could be assembled from existing equipment in a relatively short time span. However, the efficiency of dispatches and matching between hospitals could be improved.

Conclusion

The simultaneous interfacility transfer of multiple non-critically ill COVID-19 patients using an ambulance bus was feasible. No technical or patient-related adverse events were reported during 22 dispatches, involving a total of 102 patients. This mode of transport may also be useful in non-pandemic situations, such as hospital and nursing home evacuations.
Genetic Background Negates Improvements in Rice Flour Characteristics and Food Processing Properties Caused by a Mutant Allele of the PDIL1-1 Seed Storage Protein Gene
Authors: Hori Kiyosumi , Okunishi Tomoya , Nakamura Kenji , Iijima Ken , Hagimoto Masahiro , Hayakawa Katsuyuki , Shu Koka , Ikka Takashi , Yamashita Hiroto , Yamasaki Masanori , Takeuchi Yoshinobu , Koyama Shota , Tsujii Yoshimasa , Kayano Toshiaki , Ishii Takuro , Kumamaru Toshihiro , Kawagoe Yasushi , Yamamoto Toshio
Published: March 2022

Phenotypic differences among breeding lines that introduce the same superior gene allele can be a barrier to effective development of cultivars with desirable traits in some crop species. For example, a deficient mutation of the Protein Disulfide Isomerase Like 1–1 (PDIL1-1) gene can cause accumulation of glutelin seed storage protein precursors in rice endosperm, and improves rice flour characteristics and food processing properties. However, the gene must be expressed to be useful. A deficient mutant allele of PDIL1-1 was introduced into two rice cultivars with different genetic backgrounds (Koshihikari and Oonari). The grain components, agronomic traits, and rice flour and food processing properties of the resulting lines were evaluated. The two breeding lines had similar seed storage protein accumulation, amylose content, and low-molecular-weight metabolites. However, only the Koshihikari breeding line had high flour quality and was highly suitable for rice bread, noodles, and sponge cake, evidence of the formation of high-molecular-weight protein complexes in the endosperm. Transcriptome analysis revealed that mRNA levels of fourteen PDI, Ero1, and BiP genes were increased in the Koshihikari breeding line, whereas this change was not observed in the Oonari breeding line. We elucidated part of the molecular basis of the phenotypic differences between two breeding lines possessing the same mutant allele in different genetic backgrounds. The results suggest that certain genetic backgrounds can negate the beneficial effect of the PDIL1-1 mutant allele. Better understanding of the molecular basis for such interactions may accelerate future breeding of novel rice cultivars to meet the strong demand for gluten-free foods.
Patients’ life quality during ureterorenoscopy, ureterorenoscopy plus JJ insertion and shock wave lithotripsy in the management of distal ureteral stone: a prospective clinical study
Authors: Kezer Cem
Published: March 2022

Background

To clarify the effects of ureterorenoscopy (URS) and shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) on patients’ life quality in the management of distal ureteral stone (DUS) with using Short Form 36 (SF 36).

Methods

The present study was conducted in a prospective manner between July 2018 and July 2021. Patients who had DUS stone smaller than 1.5 cm were accepted as candidates for the study. Preoperative patient characteristics and treatment outcomes were recorded. Also, the SF-36 form was completed one day before the procedure and one month after the procedure. Patients were divided into three groups according to treatment modality as SWL, only URS, and URS including JJ stent insertion.

Results

Totally, 44 patients were treated with SWL, 27 patients were treated with URS, and 31 patients were treated with URS including JJ insertion. Hospitalisation period was significantly shorter in the SWL group (p = 0.001). Additionally, patients treated with SWL had a significantly lower analgesia requirement rate (31.8% in SWL group, 77.8% in URS group and 64.5% in URS + JJ stent group, p = 0.001). Stone-free status and complications did not significantly differ between groups (p = 0.846 and p = 0.096). Physical functioning score and role physical domains were significantly increased in patients treated with SWL (p = 0.005 and p = 0.031). Similarly, highest improvement for the body pain domain was achieved in the SWL group (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

The present study showed that URS, URS with JJ insertion and SWL are safe and reliable procedures for the management of DUS. However, hospitalisation time was significantly shorter and analgesia requirements were significantly lower in favour of SWL. Additionally, SWL was related with better SF-36 domains including physical functioning, role physical and body pain.
Genome-wide identification and characterization of the TIFY gene family in kiwifruit
Authors: Tao Junjie , Jia Huimin , Wu Mengting , Zhong Wenqi , Jia Dongfeng , Wang Zupeng , Huang Chunhui
Published: March 2022

Background

The TIFY gene family is a group of plant-specific transcription factors involved in regulation of plant growth and development and a variety of stress responses. However, the TIFY family has not yet been well characterized in kiwifruit, a popular fruit with important nutritional and economic value.

Results

A total of 27 and 21 TIFY genes were identified in the genomes of Actinidia eriantha and A. chinensis, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses showed that kiwifruit TIFY genes could be classified into four major groups, JAZ, ZML, TIFY and PPD, and the JAZ group could be further clustered into six subgroups (JAZ I to JAZ VI). Members within the same group or subgroup have similar exon-intron structures and conserved motif compositions. The kiwifruit TIFY genes are unevenly distributed on the chromosomes, and the segmental duplication events played a vital role in the expansion of the TIFY genes in kiwifruit. Syntenic analyses of TIFY genes between kiwifruit and other five plant species (including Arabidopsis thaliana, Camellia sinensis, Oryza sativa, Solanum lycopersicum and Vitis vinifera) and between the two kiwifruit species provided valuable clues for understanding the potential evolution of the kiwifruit TIFY family. Molecular evolutionary analysis showed that the evolution of kiwifruit TIFY genes was primarily constrained by intense purifying selection. Promoter cis-element analysis showed that most kiwifruit TIFY genes possess multiple cis-elements related to stress-response, phytohormone signal transduction and plant growth and development. The expression pattern analyses indicated that TIFY genes might play a role in different kiwifruit tissues, including fruit at specific development stages. In addition, several TIFY genes with high expression levels during Psa (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae) infection were identified, suggesting a role in the process of Pas infection.

Conclusions

In this study, the kiwifruit TIFY genes were identified from two assembled kiwifruit genomes. In addition, their basic physiochemical properties, chromosomal localization, phylogeny, gene structures and conserved motifs, synteny analyses, promoter cis-elements and expression patters were systematically examined. The results laid a foundation for further understanding the function of TIFY genes in kiwifruit, and provided a new potential approach for the prevention and treatment of Psa infection.
Integrin β3 in forebrain Emx1-expressing cells regulates repetitive self-grooming and sociability in mice
Authors: Lopuch Andrew J. , Swinehart Brian D. , Widener Eden L. , Holley Z. Logan , Bland Katherine M. , Handwerk Christopher J. , Brett Cooper A. , Cook Hollyn N. , Kalinowski Anna R. , Rodriguez Hilda V. , Song M. Irene , Vidal George S.
Published: March 2022

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by repetitive behaviors, deficits in communication, and overall impaired social interaction. Of all the integrin subunit mutations, mutations in integrin β3 (Itgb3) may be the most closely associated with ASD. Integrin β3 is required for normal structural plasticity of dendrites and synapses specifically in excitatory cortical and hippocampal circuitry. However, the behavioral consequences of Itgb3 function in the forebrain have not been assessed. We tested the hypothesis that behaviors that are typically abnormal in ASD—such as self-grooming and sociability behaviors—are disrupted with conditional Itgb3 loss of function in forebrain circuitry in male and female mice.

Methods

We generated male and female conditional knockouts (cKO) and conditional heterozygotes (cHET) of Itgb3 in excitatory neurons and glia that were derived from Emx1-expressing forebrain cells during development. We used several different assays to determine whether male and female cKO and cHET mice have repetitive self-grooming behaviors, anxiety-like behaviors, abnormal locomotion, compulsive-like behaviors, or abnormal social behaviors, when compared to male and female wildtype (WT) mice.

Results

Our findings indicate that only self-grooming and sociability are altered in cKO, but not cHET or WT mice, suggesting that Itgb3 is specifically required in forebrain Emx1-expressing cells for normal repetitive self-grooming and social behaviors. Furthermore, in cKO (but not cHET or WT), we observed an interaction effect for sex and self-grooming environment and an interaction effect for sex and sociability test chamber.

Limitations

While this study demonstrated a role for forebrain Itgb3 in specific repetitive and social behaviors, it was unable to determine whether forebrain Itgb3 is required for a preference for social novelty, whether cHET are haploinsufficient with respect to repetitive self-grooming and social behaviors, or the nature of the interaction effect for sex and environment/chamber in affected behaviors of cKO.

Conclusions

Together, these findings strengthen the idea that Itgb3 has a specific role in shaping forebrain circuitry that is relevant to endophenotypes of autism spectrum disorder.
Eisenmenger syndrome with left main compression syndrome: a case report
Authors: Cool Charlotte Johanna , Fathini Fathy , Adams Ibnu , Saboe Aninka , Kusumawardhani Nuraini Yasmin , Astuti Astri , Yahya Achmad Fauzi
Published: March 2022

Background

Left main coronary artery disease secondary to pulmonary artery compression related to Eisenmenger syndrome is an under-suspected condition that can cause fatal outcomes if left untreated. It presents with typical angina but is frequently mistaken for pulmonary hypertension (PH) symptoms. It is now recognized as one of the few important causes of angina in PH.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old man with a history of unoperated atrial septal defect and Eisenmenger syndrome came to the outpatient department with a chief complaint of angina on exertion. Electrocardiogram showed regular sinus rhythm with right axis deviation, right ventricular hypertrophy, deep T-wave inversion in inferior and anterior leads suggestive of ischemia or strain, and incomplete right bundle branch block. Cardiac CT showed compression of the left main coronary artery due to a dilated main pulmonary artery. Therefore, this patient was diagnosed with Eisenmenger syndrome with left main compression due to dilated pulmonary artery. He was treated successfully with IVUS-guided stent implantation. The patient experienced marked improvement in regular activities, with no recurrence of angina symptoms. Angiography 3 months after the procedure revealed good patency of the stent, without significant stenosis.

Conclusions

Left main coronary artery compression is a complication that should be suspected in patients with Eisenmenger syndrome presenting with angina symptoms. Non-invasive modalities are recommended for diagnostic evaluation, but the gold-standard technique remains coronary angiography. The best treatment is not well-established, with either myocardial revascularization or PH treatment, but a left main coronary artery stenting procedure is considered an ideal emergent treatment to provide a better quality of life for patients in this condition.