bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LoRa‐aided outdoor localization system: RSSI or TDoA?
Authors: Yoshitome Eric Hideo , da Cruz João Vitor Rodrigues , Monteiro Marcos Eduardo Pivaro , Rebelatto João Luiz
Published: August 2021

Internet of Things (IoT) is a hot research topic, and typically involves communication between small devices in order to sense, react, and reinvent our way of living. To this end, the localization of such small devices is of great importance for most applications. Between the many applications of IoT, there are those which require low power communication between long ranges, which are entitled Low Power Wide Area (LPWA) communications. One of the main LPWA technologies is the Long Range (LoRa), which does not support native localization. In order to overcome such a problem, a possible approach is to use the Global Positioning Systems (GPS), but it can be costly when aiming for cheaper and simpler devices. This paper evaluates the accuracy of a LoRa‐aided outdoor localization system when locating GPS‐free Target Nodes (TN) through the use of Anchor Nodes (AN) with known positions. Two different indicators are used, namely the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) and the Time Difference of Arrival (TDoA). Our results indicate that, in general, TDoA presents an improved accuracy over RSSI, with errors ranging from 66 to 253 m in the considered scenario.
Clinical pharmacist as a member of the multidisciplinary kidney care team in low‐ and middle‐income countries: An opportunity to reduce the incidence of drug‐related problems
Authors: Okoro Roland Nnaemeka
Published: August 2021

The multiple comorbidities, complications, and polypharmacy coupled with pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics changes linked to chronic kidney disease (CKD) predispose patients with this disease to a huge number of drug‐related problems (DRPs). Evidence has shown that a clinical pharmacist (CP) is an integral member of the multidisciplinary kidney care team in most high‐income countries (HICs). In the team, CP provides patient‐centered care, including detection, prevention, and resolution of DRPs, and helping patients overcome challenges to improve drug adherence. Pharmaceutical care in CKD has demonstrated positive economic, clinical, and humanistic outcomes including reduced DRPs, all‐cause hospital admission, length of hospital stays, the incidence of end‐stage renal disease, and mortality, improved drug knowledge, adherence, health‐related quality of life among others. The purpose of this article is to highlight the gaps in drug‐related care for patients with CKD in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs), demonstrate that clinical pharmacy services have the capacity to reduce these gaps, identify barriers that hinder its implementation in LMICs and offer recommendations capable of mitigating the identified barriers.
Analysis of type I osteoporosis animal models using synchrotron radiation
Authors: Kim Subok , Jang Sanghun , Ahn Jihyeon , Lee Sukjun , Lee Onseok
Published: August 2021

Preclinical experiments to analyze the trabecular space of spongy bones using small animals are required for the evaluation and treatment of patients with osteoporosis (OP). We performed ovariectomy to create OP models. A total of four mice were used. Ovariectomized group (OVX, n = 2) in which both ovaries were resected at random, and the sham operated group (SHAM, n = 2) performed surgery without resecting the ovaries. We propose a study that enables OP analysis by analyzing tibia microstructures of OVX and SHAM using synchrotron radiation (SR). SR imaging is a technology capable of irradiating an extremely small object in the order of several tens of nanometers using a nondestructive method at the microscopic level. Unlike previous imaging diagnoses (staining, micro‐CT [Computed Tomography]) it was possible to preserve the real shape and analyze bone microstructures in real‐time and analyze and evaluate spongy bones to secure data and increase the reliability of OP analysis. We were able to confirm the possibility of OP diagnosis through experimental animals for spongy bone damage related to bone mineral density. Therefore, we aimed to provide a rehabilitation and medicine therapy intervention method through basic research on the evaluation of OP diagnosis through human‐based segmentation of challenging spongy bones while supplementing the limitations of existing imaging methods.

Research Highlights

We present an analysis of osteoporosis through spongy bone using phase‐contrast X‐ray source. Unlike existing methods, it is possible to analyze the internal microstructure of the tibia with this method. This is an objective mechanism for OP and a basis for rehabilitation.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle biopsy histology with a 22‐gauge Franseen needle and fine‐needle aspiration liquid‐based cytology with a conventional 25‐gauge needle provide comparable diagnostic accuracy in solid pancreatic lesions
Authors: Tomita Yoichi , Torisu Yuichi , Chiba Masafumi , Kinoshita Yuji , Akasu Takafumi , Shimamoto Nana , Abe Takahiro , Kanazawa Keisuke , Takakura Kazuki , Tsukinaga Shintaro , Nakano Masanori , Toyoizumi Hirobumi , Kato Masayuki , Saruta Masayuki
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim

Fine‐needle biopsy (FNB) needles obtain more core samples and support the shift from cytologic to histologic evaluation; however, recent studies have proposed a superior diagnostic potential for liquid‐based cytology (LBC). This study compared the diagnostic ability of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided FNB histology with a 22‐gauge Franseen needle (22G‐FNB‐H) and fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) LBC with a conventional 25‐gauge needle (25G‐FNA‐LBC).

Methods

We analyzed 46 patients who underwent both 22G‐FNB‐H and 25G‐FNA‐LBC in the same lesion during the same endoscopic procedure. This study evaluated the diagnostic ability of each needle, diagnostic concordance between needles, and incremental diagnostic effect of both needles compared to using each needle alone.

Results

The agreement rate for malignancy between both techniques was 93.5% (kappa value = 0.82). There was no significant difference in the diagnostic ability of both methods. 22G‐FNB‐H and 25G‐FNA‐LBC provided an incremental diagnostic accuracy in two (4.3%) cases and one (2.2%) case, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that the diagnostic accuracy of 25G‐FNA‐LBC and 22G‐FNA‐H for solid pancreatic lesions were comparable. A conventional 25‐gauge needle that punctures lesions with ease can be used in difficult cases and according to the skill of the endoscopist.
Benzimidazole based derivatives as anticancer agents: Structure activity relationship analysis for various targets
Authors: Satija Garvit , Sharma Barkha , Madan Anish , Iqubal Ashif , Shaquiquzzaman Mohammad , Akhter Mymoona , Parvez Suhel , Khan Mohammad Ahmed , Alam Mohammad Mumtaz
Published: August 2021

Benzimidazole, the benzo derivative of imidazole, is a class of bicyclic aromatic organic compound consisting of six‐membered benzene ring fused to five‐membered imidazole at 4‐ and 5‐positions of the imidazole ring. It is a vital pharmacophore of many biologically active heterocyclic compounds with a variety of pharmacological activities. Over the time, benzimidazole and its derivatives have evolved as vibrant heterocyclic systems due to their potency in a wide range of bioactive compounds like analgesics, antifungals, anti‐inflammatory, antihypertensives, proton pump inhibitors, anti‐HIV, antiviral, and so on. Multi‐drug resistance in cancer that led to the failure of many chemotherapeutic drugs is a major concern. Various approaches are being developed to overcome this problem. One of them is target based drug discovery, which is an effective method to develop a novel anticancer drug. To develop newer drugs, previously reported work needs to be studied. Keeping this in mind, last 5 years literature on benzimidazole used as anticancer agents has been reviewed and summarized in the paper herein. This review article along with the target of cancer also deal with structure activity relationship of various compounds having benzimidazole ring.
Evaluating Tumor‐Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Breast Cancer Using Preoperative MRI‐Based Radiomics
Authors: Bian Tiantian , Wu Zengjie , Lin Qing , Mao Yan , Wang Haibo , Chen Jingjing , Chen Qianqian , Fu Guangming , Cui Chunxiao , Su Xiaohui
Published: August 2021

Background

Evaluating tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in patients with breast cancer using radiomics has been rarely explored.

Purpose

To establish a radiomics nomogram based on dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for preoperatively evaluating TIL level.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 154 patients with breast cancer were divided into a training cohort (N = 87) and a test cohort (N = 67), who were further divided into low TIL (<50%) and high TIL (≥50%) subgroups according to the histopathological results.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T; axial T2‐weighted imaging (fast spin echo), diffusion‐weighted imaging (spin echo‐echo planar imaging), and the volume imaging for breast assessment DCE sequence (gradient recalled echo).

Assessment

A radiomics signature was developed from the training dataset and independent risk factors were selected by multivariate logistic regression to build a clinical model. A nomogram model was built by combining radiomics score and risk factors. The performance of the nomogram was assessed using calibration curves and decision curves. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated.

Statistical Tests

The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, t‐tests and chi‐squared tests or Fisher's exact test, Hosmer–Lemeshow test, ROC analysis, and decision curve analysis were conducted. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The radiomics signature and nomogram model exhibited better calibration and validation performance in the training (radiomics: area under the curve [AUC] 0.86; nomogram: AUC 0.88) and test (radiomics: AUC 0.83; nomogram: AUC 0.84) datasets compared with clinical model (training: AUC 0.76; test: AUC 0.72). The decision curve demonstrated that the nomogram model exhibited better performance than the clinical model, with a threshold probability between 0.15 and 0.9.

Data Conclusion

The nomogram model based on preoperative MRI exhibited an excellent ability for the noninvasive evaluation of TILs in breast cancer.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the chikungunya outbreak in Ruili City, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Liu Li‐Bo , Li Man , Gao Na , Shen Jia‐Yuan , Sheng Zi‐Yang , Fan Dong‐Ying , Zhou Hong‐Ning , Yin Xiao‐Xiong , Mao Jia‐Rong , Jiang Jin‐Yong , Wang Pei‐Gang , An Jing
Published: August 2021

Chikungunya fever is an acute infectious disease caused by the chikungunya virus (CHIKV) that is characterized by fever, rash, and joint pain. CHIKV has infected millions of people in Africa, Asia, America, and Europe since it re‐emerged in the Indian Ocean region in 2004. Here, we report an outbreak of Chikungunya fever that occurred in Ruili of Yunnan Province, a city located on the border between China and Myanmar, in September 2019. The outbreak lasted for three months from September to December. Overall, 112 cases were confirmed by a real‐time reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction in the Ruili People's Hospital, and they showed apparent temporal, spatial, and population aggregation. Among them, 91 were local cases distributed in 19 communities of Ruili City, and 21 were imported cases. The number of female patients was higher than that of male patients, and most patients were between 20 and 60 years old. The main clinical manifestations included joint pain (91.96%), fever (86.61%), fatigue (58.04%), chills (57.14%), rash (48.21%), headache (39.29%), and so forth. Biochemical indexes revealed increased C‐reactive protein (63.39%), lymphopenia (57.17%), increased hemoglobin (33.04%), neutrophilia (28.57%), and thrombocytopenia (16.07%). Phylogenetic analysis of the complete sequences indicated that the CHIKV strains in this outbreak belonged to the Indian Ocean clade of the East/Central/South African genotype. We speculated that this chikungunya outbreak might be caused by CHIKV‐infected persons returning from Myanmar, and provided a reference for the formulation of effective treatment and prevention measures.
Molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis of tick‐borne encephalitis virus in ticks in northeastern China
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Ji Hongwei , Wang Di , Che Lihe , Zhang Li , Li Liang , Yin Qing , Liu Quan , Wei Feng , Wang Zedong
Published: August 2021

Tick‐borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is an important causative agent that causes neurological infections in humans and animals. In recent years, only few epidemiological surveys on TBEV have been conducted in China. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and subtype of TBEV in ticks in northeastern (NE) China. A total of 3799 questing ticks were collected in NE China between April 2015 and June 2016. Ticks were pooled and tested for TBEV RNA using semi‐nested reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Positive pools were used to isolate the virus and amplify complete sequences, followed by sequence identity and phylogenetic analysis. TBEV RNA was detected in Ixodes persulcatus ticks at a total prevalence of 2.9% (6/143; 95% confidence interval: 1.2%–5.9%). Three TBEV strains were isolated (JL‐T75, HLB‐T74, and DXAL‐T83) and showed 93.9%–99.1% nucleotide identities and 97.1%–99.5% amino acid identities in Far Eastern (FE) TBEV subtypes, and 82.9%–87.6% nucleotide identities and 92.9%–96.4% amino acid identities in other subtypes. For polyprotein, the JL‐T75, HLB‐T74, and DXAL‐T83 strains showed 29, 50, and 55 amino acid residues, respectively, different from those in the TBEV vaccine (Senzhang) strain in China. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that these viruses were clustered in the FE‐TBEV branch but formed distinct clades depending on the natural foci. The results of this study suggest that the FE‐TBEV subtype is still endemic in I. persulcatus ticks in NE China, and the viruses in different natural foci in NE China are more likely to have genetic differences.
The comparative safety of human papillomavirus vaccines: A Bayesian network meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Rongdong , Gan Ruihuan , Zhang Dongjuan , Xiao Jianxiong
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims

The safety of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, one of the major challenges to public vaccination, has been controversial. This study assessed the adverse reactions of various HPV vaccines, including bivalent HPV (2vHPV), quadrivalent HPV (4vHPV), and 9‐valent HPV (9vHPV) vaccines.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Central databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the comparative safety of HPV vaccines. A network meta‐analysis was performed based on the Bayesian framework random‐effects model.

Results

This study included 23 RCTs. Analysis across these reports indicated that the 2vHPV vaccine was associated with significantly more systemic adverse events than the 4vHPV vaccine (risk ratio [RR]: 1.28, 95% credible interval [CrI]: 1.14–1.44), 9vHPV vaccine (RR: 1.25, 95% CrI: 1.06–1.49), and placebo (RR: 1.31, 95% CrI: 1.18–1.46). However, there were no statistically significant differences in serious adverse events between the vaccinated and placebo groups. For injection‐site adverse events, there were substantial inconsistencies between the direct and indirect effects; therefore, the analysis results of the safety were presented only for systemic and serious adverse events.

Conclusions

The 2vHPV vaccine resulted in more systemic adverse events than other vaccines and placebo. No significant differences in serious adverse events were observed. Further studies are needed to obtain more information regarding the safety of HPV vaccines.
QT interval and repolarization dispersion changes during the administration of hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine with/without azithromycin in early COVID 19 pandemic: A prospective observational study from two academic hospitals in Indonesia
Authors: Gumilang Rizki A. , Siswanto  , Anggraeni Vita Y. , Trisnawati Ika , Budiono Eko , Hartopo Anggoro B.
Published: August 2021

Background

Hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine (HCQ/CQ) treatment for COVID‐19 was associated with QT interval prolongation and arrhythmia risks. This study aimed to investigate QTc interval and ventricular repolarization dispersion changes, as markers of arrhythmia risks, after HCQ/CQ administration with/without azithromycin (AZT) during COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A prospective observational study was performed in two academic hospitals in Indonesia. Adult patients who received HCQ/CQ alone and HCQ/CQ + AZT concomitant treatments for COVID‐19 infection were enrolled. Baseline and post HCQ/CQ treatment electrocardiograms were obtained. Baseline and post HCQ/CQ treatment QT interval by Bazett (B‐QTc) and Fridericia (F‐QTc) formulas and ventricular repolarization dispersion indices by Tpeak‐Tend (Tp‐e) interval and Tpeak‐Tend/QT (Tp‐e/QT) ratio were calculated and analyzed.

Results

The study enrolled 55 (HCQ/CQ alone) and 77 subjects (HCQ/CQ + AZT concomitant). F‐QTc interval significantly lengthened in subjects with HCQ/CQ + AZT (mean difference 11.89 ms [P = .028]). The incidences of severe B‐QTc and F‐QTc lengthening were 13.1% and 12.3%, B‐QTc and F‐QTc prolongation were 25.4% and 12.3%, and severe B‐QTc and F‐QTc prolongation were 6.2% and 3.2%. Tp‐e interval lengthened significantly from baseline to posttreatment in HCQ/CQ alone and HCQ/CQ + AZT (mean difference 10.83 ms [P = .006] and 18.73 ms [P < .001], respectively). Tp‐e/QT ratio increased significantly from baseline to posttreatment in HCQ/CQ + AZT concomitant (mean difference 0.035 [P < .001]). No fatal arrhytmia occurred.

Conclusions

During COVID‐19 pandemic, HCQ/CQ + AZT concomitant treatment caused significant F‐QTc lengthening, significantly increased Tp‐e interval and increased Tp‐e/QT ratio. HCQ/CQ alone only caused significant increase of Tp‐e interval. Incidences of severe QTc lengthening and prolongation were low in both HCQ/CQ alone and HCQ/CQ + AZT concomitant.
Preventing atrial fibrillation by combined right isthmus ablation and cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation in patients with typical atrial flutter: PAF‐CRIOBLAF study
Authors: Anselme Frédéric , Savouré Arnaud , Clémenty Nicolas , Cesari Olivier , Pavin Dominique , Jesel Laurence , Defaye Pascal , Boveda Serge , Rivat Philippe , Mansourati Jacques , Mechulan Alexis , Cebron Jean‐Pierre , Lande Gilles , Bubenheim ScD Michael , Milhem Antoine
Published: August 2021

Background

Although less common, typical atrial flutter shares similar pathophysiological roots with atrial fibrillation. Following successful cavo‐tricuspid isthmus ablation using radiofrequency, many patients, however, develop atrial fibrillation in the mid‐to‐long‐term. This study sought to assess whether pulmonary vein isolation conducted at the same time as cavo‐tricuspid isthmus ablation would significantly modify the atrial fibrillation burden upon follow‐up in patients suffering from typical atrial flutter.

Methods

This was a multicenter randomized controlled study involving typical atrial flutter patients with history of non‐predominant atrial fibrillation (1 atrial fibrillation episode only, in 67% of population) who were scheduled for cavo‐tricuspid isthmus radiofrequency ablation. Patients were randomly assigned to either undergo cavo‐tricuspid isthmus ablation alone or cavo‐tricuspid isthmus plus pulmonary vein isolation (CTI+). Pulmonary vein isolation was performed using cryoballoon technology. An outpatient consultation with ECG and 1‐week Holter monitoring was performed at 3, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years postprocedure. The primary endpoint was atrial fibrillation recurrences lasting more than 30 s at 2 years postablation.

Results

Of the patients enrolled, 36 were included in each group. At 2‐year follow‐up, the atrial fibrillation recurrence rate was significantly higher in the CTI vs CTI+group (25/36, 69% vs. 12/36, 33% respectively; P < .001), with similar typical atrial flutter recurrence rates. There were no differences in undesirable events, except for transient phrenic nerve palsy reported from three CTI+patients (8.3%).

Conclusion

Pulmonary vein isolation using cryoballoon technology was proven to significantly reduce the atrial fibrillation incidence at 2 years postcavo‐tricuspid isthmus ablation.
On the sensitivity of the Amazon surface climate to two land‐surface hydrology schemes using a high‐resolution regional climate model (RegCM4)
Authors: Anwar Samy A. , Reboita Michelle Simões , Llopart Marta
Published: August 2021

Two 11‐year simulations were conducted to investigate the influence of two runoff schemes in the community land model version 4.5 (CLM45) on the Amazon surface energy balance and surface climate using a high‐resolution regional climate model (RegCM4‐CLM45). The default scheme is TOPMODEL (TOP), while the alternative is Variable Infiltration Capacity (VIC). In the two simulations, the vegetation status is prescribed (satellite phenology; SP). The first simulation was designated as SP‐TOP, while the second simulation was referred to as SP‐VIC, and both of them were evaluated using reanalysis products (e.g., ERA5) and micrometeorology data measurements. Results show that the SP‐VIC severely underestimates latent heat and overestimates sensible heat fluxes, more than SP‐TOP in comparison with the ERA5. This explains the large warm bias observed in the winter season. On the other hand, the SP‐VIC shows a slightly smaller dry bias than SP‐TOP against the Climate Research Unit (CRU) data. Our results show that SP‐VIC does not improve the quality of the simulation compared to SP‐TOP, which suggests the necessity of additional calibration of the VIC surface parameters using in situ observations of the Amazon and revising the VIC runoff scheme to perform new sensitivity experiments. The same needs to be done with SP‐TOP.
The impact of Flavourzyme on flavor, antioxidant activity, and sensory attributes of salted grass carp by brine injection and brining
Authors: Wu Han , Shi Wenzheng , Huang Haiyuan , Chen Luzhu , Li Nian , Du Yufan , Pei Nuo , Sun Jie
Published: August 2021

Background

Enzyme injection is vital for improving the sensory attributes and processing characteristics of meat products by enhancing proteolysis. However, studies regarding the appropriate dose addition for accelerating protein degradation in grass carp are minimal. This study aimed to investigate the impact of Flavourzyme® on the flavor quality and antioxidant activity of salted grass carp via brine injection and brining.

Results

Flavourzyme was added at doses of 0, 5, 10, 20, and 30 leucine aminopeptidase units (LAPU) per kilogram of raw meat. The results indicated that adding Flavourzyme promoted proteolysis, which was reflected by the enhanced total free amino acid content (from 3.7414 g kg−1 to 4.9160 g kg−1 in the brining group and from 3.8039 g kg−1 to 5.4061 g kg−1 in the injection group) and a decrease in salt soluble and insoluble protein (P < 0.05). The antioxidant activity was improved, and the thiobarbituric acid reactive substance value in salted carp decreased due to the higher content of the protein hydrolysis product (P < 0.05). All sensory attributes were improved significantly, especially when using brine injection (P < 0.05). Brine injection was helpful to diffuse the Flavourzyme, resulting in stronger proteolysis.

Conclusion

The appropriate Flavourzyme dose was 10 LAPU kg−1 in the injection group and 20 LAPU kg−1 in the brining group. Therefore, moderate Flavourzyme addition was excellent in improving sensory attributes and storage characteristics, whereas injection represented a novel method to obtain a similar fish meat quality in a shorter time and with less added Flavourzyme. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
The development of genus‐specific and species‐specific real‐time PCR assays for the authentication of Patagonian toothfish and Antarctic toothfish in commercial seafood products
Authors: Yao Lin , Qu Meng , Jiang Yanhua , Guo Yingying , Li Na , Li Fengling , Tan Zhijun , Wang Lianzhu
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

The substitution or mislabeling of toothfish is an issue of significant concern for seafood authorities; it also reduces the effectiveness of marine conservation and management programs for its over‐exploitation and illegal trafficking, boosting the need for identification methods.

RESULTS

Two species‐specific real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays for the identification of Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides) and Antarctic toothfish (Dissostichus mawsoni) and a genus‐specific real‐time PCR assay for Dissostichus spp. identification were developed based on fragments of the 16S rRNA and COI (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) genes. These methods were confirmed to be rapid, simple, and sensitive (absolute sensitivity of 0.0002 ng μL−1 and relative sensitivity of 0.1 g kg−1 with good specificity). These methods can be applied to processed and commercial fish products.

CONCLUSIONS

These approaches can be beneficial for protecting both consumers and producers from economic fraud and might also help protect toothfish from over‐exploitation as well as combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fisheries. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effects of different tillage management on rhizosphere soil nitrogen mineralization and its extracellular enzyme activity in a double‐cropping rice paddy field of southern China
Authors: Tang Haiming , Li Chao , Cheng Kaikai , Shi Lihong , Wen Li , Li Weiyan , Xiao Xiaoping
Published: August 2021

Soil extracellular enzyme activity plays an important role in regulating the process of nitrogen (N) mineralization in the paddy field. However, there is still limited information about how rhizosphere N mineralization and its extracellular enzyme activities respond to different tillage treatments in a double‐cropping rice paddy fields of southern China. Therefore, the effects of 6‐year (short‐term) tillage management on rhizosphere soil acid hydrolysable N and its fractions, N mineralization, and its extracellular enzyme activities in a double‐cropping rice paddy fields of southern China were studied and reported in this article. The field experiment included four tillage treatments: conventional tillage with crop residue incorporation (CT), rotary tillage with crop residue incorporation (RT), no‐tillage with crop residue retention (NT), and rotary tillage with crop residue removed as a control (RTO). The results showed that rhizosphere soil total acid hydrolysable N and its fractions with CT, RT and NT treatments were higher than those with RTO treatment. Compared to RTO treatment, the rhizosphere soil total acid hydrolysable N content with CT and RT treatments was increased by 19.17% and 17.74%, respectively. Compared to RTO treatment, the rhizosphere soil aerobic and anaerobic N mineralization rates with CT and RT treatments were increased by 100.00% and 80.65%, and 43.02% and 33.72%, respectively. Rhizosphere soil extracellular enzyme activities with CT and RT treatments were higher than those with NT and RTO treatments. There was a positive correlation between rhizosphere soil amino sugar N, amino acid N, total acid hydrolysable N contents, L‐glutaminase activity and N mineralization rate. The principal component analysis results indicated that rhizosphere soil organic carbon, amino sugar N, amino acid N and total acid hydrolysable N contents, soil β‐glucosaminidase, β‐glucosidase and L‐glutaminase activities were the main factors affecting rhizosphere soil aerobic and anaerobic N mineralization rates. As a result, rhizosphere soil acid hydrolysable N and its fractions, N mineralization, and its extracellular enzyme activities were significantly increased under the combined application of conventional tillage and rotary tillage with the crop residue incorporation condition.
Otolaryngology resident clinic participation and attending electronic health record efficiency—A user activity logs study
Authors: Wandell Grace Michel , Giliberto John Paul
Published: August 2021

Objectives

In an era of increasing electronic health record (EHR) use monitoring and optimization, this study aims to quantify resident contributions and measure the effect of otolaryngology resident coverage in clinic on attending otolaryngologist EHR usage.

Methods

In one academic otolaryngology department, monthly attending provider efficiency profile metrics, data collected by the EHR vendor (Epic Systems Corporation) between January and June 2019 were accessed. Using weekly resident schedules, resident coverage of attending outpatient clinics was categorized by junior (post‐graduate year [PGY] 1‐3) and senior levels (PGY‐4 through fellows) and correlated with attending EHR metrics using linear mixed effect models.

Results

Thirteen attending otolaryngologists on average spent 58.8 minutes per day interacting with the EHR. In modeling, one day of trainee clinic coverage was associated with a 22 minutes reduction (95% CI [−37, −6]) in total daily attending EHR time and a 12 minutes reduction (95% CI [−21, −3]) in per day note time (P < .05). When stratifying by trainee level, senior coverage was associated with significantly reduced total daily time in EHR, per day time in clinical review, notes, and orders, as well as per appointment time in notes and clinical review (P < .05). Junior coverage was only associated with reduced per day note time (P < .05).

Conclusions

Increasing resident clinic coverage was inversely related to attending time spent in the EHR and writing notes. Resident contributions to EHR workflows and hospital system productivity should continue to be studied and considered in EHR use measurement studies.

Level of Evidence

Level 4.
Similar Results in Liver Transplantation From Controlled Donation After Circulatory Death Donors With Normothermic Regional Perfusion and Donation After Brain Death Donors: A Case‐Matched Single‐Center Study
Authors: Ruiz Patricia , Valdivieso Andres , Palomares Ibone , Prieto Mikel , Ventoso Alberto , Salvador Patricia , Senosiain Maria , Fernandez Jose Ramon , Testillano Milagros , Bustamante Francisco Javier , Gastaca Mikel
Published: August 2021

Although good results have been reported with the use of normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) in controlled donation after circulatory death (cDCD) liver transplantation (LT), there is a lack of evidence to demonstrate similar results to donation after brain death (DBD). We present a single‐center retrospective case‐matched (1:2) study including 100 NRP cDCD LTs and 200 DBD LTs and a median follow‐up of 36 months. Matching was done according to donor age, recipient Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score, and cold ischemia time. The following perioperative results were similar in both groups: alanine transaminase peaks of 909 U/L in the DBD group and 836 U/L in the cDCD group and early allograft disfunction percentages of 21% and 19.2%, respectively. The 1‐year and 3‐year overall graft survival for cDCD was 99% and 93%, respectively, versus 92% and 87%, respectively, for DBD (P = 0.04). Of note, no cases of primary nonfunction or ischemic‐type biliary lesion were observed among the cDCD grafts. Our results confirm that NRP cDCD LT meets the same outcomes as those obtained with DBD LT and provides evidence to support the idea that cDCD donors per se should no longer be considered as “marginal donors” when recovered with NRP.
Copolymerizations of Saccharin Methacrylamide with Dienes toward Softer Alternating Copolymers and Advanced Sequence Control
Authors: Kametani Yuki , Ouchi Makoto
Published: August 2021

In this paper, the copolymerization of saccharin methacrylamide (1) with conjugated dienes [2,3‐dimethyl butadiene (DMBD) and isoprene (IP)] as comonomers toward advanced sequence control is studied. Both monomers are consumed at the same rate in the copolymerization despite the lack of homopolymerization ability of 1, indicating that the alternating copolymerization likely progresses. The resultant copolymers are transformed into methyl methacrylate (MMA)‐diene alternating copolymers via direct methanolysis reaction for the copolymerization solution. The alternating sequence is characterized by NMR analyses in comparison with the corresponding statistical copolymers. As for the copolymer with IP, the remaining carboncarbon double bonds are hydrogenated for the synthesis of advanced sequence‐controlled polymer, MMA‐(propylene‐ethylene) alternating‐copolymer.
Some basic thoughts on the cofinalities of Chang structures with an application to forcing
Authors: Adolf Dominik T.
Published: August 2021

Consider where κ is an uncountable regular cardinal. By a result of Shelah's we have for almost all witnessing this. Here we consider the question if there could be a similar result for . We will discuss some basic facts implying that this cannot hold in general. We will use these facts to construct an interesting example of a pseudo Prikry forcing, answering a question of Sinapova.
Simulated satiation through reality‐enhancing technology
Authors: Pala Erol , Kapitan Sommer , van Esch Patrick
Published: August 2021

We define simulated satiation through reality‐enhancing technology as any attenuation in perceived benefits that occurs within or results from vicarious and simulated intermediary sources. We examine simulated satiation as a factor that underlies consumer experiences with reality‐enhancing technologies and presents nine testable propositions. Each proposition is aimed at determining how simulated satiation can unlock implications in terms of engaging consumers for the right amount of time to improve marketing outcomes. We further conduct a proof‐of‐concept study to test proposition 1, that physiological drivers and sensory overload increases simulated satiation. The empirical results show that shorter (vs. longer) exposure to virtual reality content raises perceived usefulness for virtual reality (VR), which in turn mediates stickiness for VR experiences alongside consumers’ subjective well‐being. Finally, we carry forward key theoretical contradictions and areas for future empirical testing based on simulated satiation in reality‐enhanced environments, including experiences, that are reshaping consumer decision making.
Minimal twist accretive growth with spatial curve evolution
Authors: Tuğ Gül
Published: August 2021

In this work, we consider the Rotation Minimizing frame attached to a spatial curve to explain the kinematics of the accretive growth. Choosing this frame provides minimal twist along the cell tracks and makes the angular velocity of the local basis minimal. By this method, we obtain more suitable models of some biological beings. Also, we use the quaternions in E3 to model the kinematics of the accretive growth in a practical way. Moreover, we give the relation between the proposed models.
Multiclass classification of whole‐body scintigraphic images using a self‐defined convolutional neural network with attention modules
Authors: Lin Qiang , Cao Chuangui , Li Tongtong , Cao Yongchun , Man Zhengxing , Wang Haijun
Published: August 2021

Purpose

A self‐defined convolutional neural network is developed to automatically classify whole‐body scintigraphic images of concern (i.e., the normal, metastasis, arthritis, and thyroid carcinoma), automatically detecting diseases with whole‐body bone scintigraphy.

Methods

A set of parameter transformation operations are first used to augment the original dataset of whole‐body bone scintigraphic images. A hybrid attention mechanism including the spatial and channel attention module is then introduced to develop a deep classification network, Dscint, which consists of eight weight layers, one hybrid attention module, two normalization modules, two fully connected layers, and one softmax layer.

Results

Experimental evaluations conducted on a set of whole‐body scintigraphic images show that the proposed deep classification network, Dscint, performs well for automated detection of diseases by classifying the images of concerns, achieving the accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, and F‐1 score of 0.9801, 0.9795, 0.9791, 0.9933, and 0.9792, respectively, on the test data in the augmented dataset. A comparative analysis of Dscint and several classical deep classification networks (i.e., AlexNet, ResNet, VGGNet, DenseNet, and Inception‐v4) reveals that our self‐defined network, Dscint, performs best on classifying whole‐body scintigraphic images on the same dataset.

Conclusions

The self‐defined deep classification network, Dscint, can be utilized to automatically determine whether a whole‐body scintigraphic image is either normal or contains diseases of concern. Specifically, better performance of Dscint is obtained on images with lesions that are present in relatively fixed locations like thyroid carcinoma than those with lesions occurring in nonfixed locations of bone tissue.
Control of a wireless sensor using the pulse sequence for prospective motion correction in brain MRI
Authors: van Niekerk Adam , Berglund Johan , Sprenger Tim , Norbeck Ola , Avventi Enrico , Rydén Henric , Skare Stefan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To synchronize and pass information between a wireless motion‐tracking device and a pulse sequence and show how this can be used to implement customizable navigator interleaving schemes that are part of the pulse sequence design.

Methods

The device tracks motion by sampling the voltages induced in 3 orthogonal pickup coils by the changing gradient fields. These coils were modified to also detect RF‐transmit events using a 3D RF‐detection circuit. The device could then detect and decode a set RF signatures while ignoring excitations in the parent pulse sequence. A set of unique RF signatures were then paired with a collection of navigators and used to trigger readouts on the wireless device synchronous to the pulse sequence execution. Navigator interleaving schemes were then demonstrated in 3D RF‐spoiled gradient echo, T1‐FLAIR (fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery) PROPELLER (periodically rotated overlapping parallel lines with enhanced reconstruction), and T2‐FLAIR PROPELLER pulse sequences.

Results

Excitations in the parent pulse sequences were successfully rejected and the RF signatures successfully decoded. For the 3D gradient echo sequence, distortions were removed by interleaving flipped polarity navigators and taking the difference between consecutive readouts. The impact on scan duration was reduced by 54% by breaking up the navigators into smaller parts. Successful motion correction was performed using the PROPELLER pulse sequences in 3 Tesla and 1.5 Tesla MRI scanners without modifications to the device hardware or software.

Conclusion

The proposed RF signature‐based triggering scheme enables complex interactions between the pulse sequence and a wireless device. Thus, enabling prospective motion correction that is repeatable, versatile, and minimally invasive with respect to hardware setup.
Echo time dependence of biexponential and triexponential intravoxel incoherent motion parameters in the liver
Authors: Führes Tobit , Riexinger Andreas Julian , Loh Martin , Martin Jan , Wetscherek Andreas , Kuder Tristan Anselm , Uder Michael , Hensel Bernhard , Laun Frederik Bernd
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) studies are performed with different acquisition protocols. Comparing them requires knowledge of echo time (TE) dependencies. The TE‐dependence of the biexponential perfusion fraction f is well‐documented, unlike that of its triexponential counterparts f1 and f2 and the biexponential and triexponential pseudodiffusion coefficients D*, , and . The purpose was to investigate the TE‐dependence of these parameters and to check whether the triexponential pseudodiffusion compartments are associated with arterial and venous blood.

Methods

Fifteen healthy volunteers (19‐58 y; mean: 24.7 y) underwent diffusion‐weighted imaging of the abdomen with 24 b‐values (0.2‐800 s/mm2) at TEs of 45, 60, 75, and 90 ms. Regions of interest (ROIs) were manually drawn in the liver. One set of bi‐ and triexponential IVIM parameters per volunteer and TE was determined. The TE‐dependence was assessed with the Kruskal‐Wallis test.

Results

TE‐dependence was observed for f (P < .001), f1 (P = .001), and f2 (P < .001). Their median values at the four measured TEs were: f: 0.198/0.240/0.274/0.359, f1: 0.113/0.139/0.146/0.205, f2: 0.115/0.155/0.182/0.194. D, D*, , and showed no significant TE‐dependence. Their values were: diffusion coefficient D (10−4 mm2/s): 9.45/9.63/9.75/9.41, biexponential D* (10−2 mm2/s): 5.26/5.52/6.13/5.82, triexponential (10−2 mm2/s): 1.73/2.91/2.25/2.51, triexponential (mm2/s): 0.478/1.385/0.616/0.846.

Conclusion

f1 and f2 show similar TE‐dependence as f, ie, increase with rising TE; an effect that must be accounted for when comparing different studies. The diffusion and pseudodiffusion coefficients might be compared without TE correction. Because of the similar TE‐dependence of f1 and f2, the triexponential pseudodiffusion compartments are most probably not associated to venous and arterial blood.
Cubital tunnel perfusion in different postures—An anatomical investigation
Authors: Rossmann Tobias , Heber Ulrike M. , Heber Stefan , Reissig Lukas F. , Grisold Wolfgang , Weninger Wolfgang J. , Meng Stefan
Published: August 2021

Introduction/Aims

For cubital tunnel syndrome, the avoidance of predisposing arm positions and the use of elbow splints are common conservative treatment options. The rationale is to prevent excessive stretching and compression of the nerve in the cubital tunnel, as this mechanical stress impedes intraneural perfusion. Data regarding those upper extremity postures to avoid, or whether elbow flexion alone is detrimental, are inconsistent. This study aimed to assess perfusion and size changes of the cubital tunnel during different postures in an experimental cadaver setup.

Methods

Axillary arteries in 30 upper extremities of fresh cadavers were injected with ultrasound contrast agent. High‐resolution ultrasound of the cubital tunnel was performed during five different arm postures that gradually increased tension on the ulnar nerve and caused cubital tunnel narrowing. Contrast enhancement within the tunnel was measured to quantify perfusion. Cubital tunnel cross‐sectional area was measured to detect compression.

Results

Increasing tension significantly reduced perfusion. When isolated, neither shoulder elevation, elbow flexion, pronation, nor extension of wrist and fingers impaired perfusion. However, combining two or more of these postures led to significant decreases. Significant narrowing of the cubital tunnel was seen in full elbow flexion and shoulder elevation.

Discussion

Combinations of some upper extremity joint positions reduce nerve perfusion, but isolated elbow flexion does not have a significant impact. We hypothesize that elbow splints alone may not influence cubital tunnel perfusion but may only prevent direct compression of the ulnar nerve. Advising patients about upper extremity postures that should be avoided may be more effective.
On approximation theory of nonlocal differential operators
Authors: Yu Haicheng , Li Shaofan
Published: August 2021

Recently, several types of nonlocal discrete differential operators have emerged either from meshfree particle methods or from nonlocal continuum mechanics, such as peridynamics. In this article, we discuss the mathematical formulation as well as construction of the nonlocal discrete differential operators. Based on a least‐square minimization procedure and the associated Moore–Penrose inverse, we have found a general form of the shape tensor and a unified expression for the first type nonlocal differential operators. We then conduct a convergence study, which provides the interpolation error estimate for the first type discrete nonlocal different operators. We have shown that as the radius of the horizon approaches to zero, the first type nonlocal differential operators will converge to the local differential operators. Moreover, we have demonstrated the computational performance of the first type nonlocal differential operators in several numerical examples.
Efficient finite difference formulation of a geometrically nonlinear beam element
Authors: Jirásek Milan , La Malfa Ribolla Emma , Horák Martin
Published: August 2021

The article is focused on a two‐dimensional geometrically nonlinear formulation of a Bernoulli beam element that can accommodate arbitrarily large rotations of cross sections. The formulation is based on the integrated form of equilibrium equations, which are combined with the kinematic equations and generalized material equations, leading to a set of three first‐order differential equations. These equations are then discretized by finite differences and the boundary value problem is converted into an initial value problem using a technique inspired by the shooting method. Accuracy of the numerical approximation is conveniently increased by refining the integration scheme on the element level while the number of global degrees of freedom is kept constant, which leads to high computational efficiency. The element has been implemented into an open‐source finite element code. Numerical examples show a favorable comparison with standard beam elements formulated in the finite‐strain framework and with analytical solutions.
Structures and properties of polymers in ion exchange membranes for hydrogen generation by water electrolysis
Authors: Gohil Jaydevsinh M. , Dutta Kingshuk
Published: August 2021

Water electrolysis (WE) is an electrochemical process that splits water and forms hydrogen and oxygen, in presence of catalyst. This is a rapidly developing technology owing to its extreme importance in the generation of hydrogen. Membrane‐based WE involves the use of anion exchange, proton exchange and bipolar membranes, among which the anion exchange membrane‐based WE technology is in the most advanced stage, followed by the proton exchange membrane‐based WE. While, the bipolar membrane‐based WE is the most nascent technology. Among the different categories of membranes used, polymer‐based membranes are the most acceptable ones. It is evident that the structure and properties of the polymers that constitute a membrane play the most important role in determining its applicability in WE application. Keeping this in mind, this review is dedicatedly focused on the different polymers that have been majorly used so far in fabrication of anion exchange, proton exchange, and bipolar membranes for WE, and exclusively analyzes the influence imparted by the structure and properties of the involved polymers on the final performance of the membranes.