bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design method and implementation of the fractional‐order inductor and its application in series‐resonance circuit
Authors: Hao Chunling , Wang Faqiang
Published: February 2022

By using the fractional‐order medium constitutive relations and Maxwell equations, the modeling and theoretical analysis of the fractional‐order inductor (FOI) is investigated in this study. The general formulations of the magnetic property model of FOI core material are derived. This paper proposes a generalized approach to design and implement a single‐component FOI and constructs the independent fractional‐order circuit element in Matlab/Simulink based on the fractional calculus Grünwald–Letnikov (GL) definition. The electrical and magnetic performance of the FOI are characterized in both frequency and time domain by simulation and experimentation. All results show that it is effective to use the proposed method and design guidance to construct the FOI. Furthermore, the results from the application of FOI in the fractional‐orderRLλCseries‐resonance circuit show that the order has an effect on the characteristics and frequency properties of it.
Theα‐η‐μ/inverse gamma fading subjected to wireless applications with MRC diversity
Authors: Upaddhyay Vipin Kumar , Soni S. K. , Chauhan P. S.
Published: February 2022

Closed‐form statistics are highly desirable in wireless communications. With this motivation, this work presents the closed‐form expressions for the fundamental statistics of generalizedα‐η‐μ/Inverse‐Gamma (I‐Gamma) composite distribution. The proposed distribution encompasses well‐knownη‐μ/I‐Gamma,α‐μ/I‐Gamma and other variants. First, we derive a novel closed‐form expression for the probability density function (PDF), cumulative distribution function (CDF), and generalized moment generating function (MGF). Further, generalized MGF is utilized to access system performance with diversity reception. In addition, the high power solutions for derived performance metrics are also provided. The analytical findings of the paper are compared with the numerical results and also with the Monte Carlo simulation results to confirm their accuracy.
Likelihood ascent search‐aided low complexity improved performance massive MIMO detection in perfect and imperfect channel state information
Authors: Chakraborty Sourav , Sinha Nirmalendu Bikas , Mitra Monojit
Published: February 2022

Massive multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems improve spectral efficiency and link reliability. Linear minimum mean‐squared error (MMSE) detectors can achieve optimal performance in massive MIMO detection but require large dimension matrix inversion, which is computationally intensive. Therefore, low complexity iterative detection schemes are proposed in the literature as an alternative to the exact MMSE method. However, the performance of these schemes is greatly influenced by the choice of the initial solution. Therefore, to improve the detection performance in this paper, we proposed three hybrid detection schemes, which are Newton–Schultz–Richardson (NS‐RI), Newton–Schultz–Chebyshev (NS‐Cheby), and Newton–Schultz–Gauss–Seidel (NS‐GS). The proposed hybrid schemes show significant performance improvement and a higher convergence rate compared to their original counterpart. The performance of the proposed detectors is further improved by the likelihood ascent search (LAS) stage, which corrects the detected symbols obtained from iterative MMSE methods through a neighborhood search. However, the complexity of the LAS algorithm primarily depends on the initialization step. In this work, we introduce an efficient Gram matrix computation in the real domain. Additionally, we have applied a band approximation of the Gram matrix for the LAS initialization, which reduces the order of computational complexity of the Gram matrix from
to O(ωNTNR) where ω < <2NT.
Update on diagnosis and treatment of actinic keratosis
Authors: Agarwal Komal , Podder Indrashis , Cockerell Clay J. , Kassir Martin , Grabbe Stephan , Goldust Mohamad
Published: February 2022

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a relatively common skin condition occurring due to chronic sun‐exposure, primarily affecting fair skin. Most dermatologists consider it an incipient malignancy due to its risk of full‐blown malignant transformation to squamous cell carcinoma. However, the exact risk factors remain unknown, and thus its course cannot be predicted. Therefore, all cases of AK need early diagnosis and appropriate treatment to mitigate this risk. Over the years, several noninvasive diagnostic techniques such as dermoscopy, reflectance confocal microscopy, and newer treatment modalities (lesion‐directed and field‐directed) have been introduced with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Notably, invasive skin biopsy with histopathology remains the gold‐standard for diagnosis. Prevention is of paramount importance, highlighted by adequate sun‐protection measures. This article reviews the diagnostic and treatment modalities of AK, with their latest updates, to optimize patient management.
Human–wildlife conflict in the surrounding districts of Alage College, Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
Authors: Temesgen Zelalem , Mengesha Girma , Endalamaw Tefera B.
Published: February 2022

The study was conducted between September 2018 and March 2019 to investigate the nature and extent of human–wildlife conflict (HWC) in the surrounding area of Alage College, the Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia, and to assess the perception of the local people to wildlife. For data collection, a total of 140 household (HH) heads were selected randomly for interviews from nine villages using structured and semi‐structured questionnaires. Moreover, focus group discussion, key informant interviews, and personal observation were carried out to obtain additional information. Descriptive statistics, Chi‐square test (2 tailed), one‐way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficient, and Likert scale statements were used to analyze the data. Based on, 66 (47.1%) of the respondents, HH heads, the local people of the area experienced livestock predation leading to HWC. Whereas, (40.7%, n = 57) of the respondents perceived both crop damage and livestock predation as a cause of conflict. A total of 932.43 total livestock unit of livestock and 218 dogs’ losses were reported by HH due to predators over the last 5 years. Thus, the largest number of livestock (89.9%) and dogs (100%) attacks was happened due to spotted hyenas. Nearly half of the respondents (49.3%, n = 69) ranked warthogs as the primary crop raiders, while the majority of respondents (82.1%, n = 115) reported maize as a severely damaged cereal crop. More than half, (57.1%, n = 80) of respondents used different methods simultaneously to minimize damage caused by wild animals. About half, (48.6%, n = 68) of respondents had a negative attitude toward wildlife conservation. The level of education and amount of money imposed as a penalty for illegal grazing were affecting the local community's attitudes to wildlife conservation. Using effective methods to reduce damage and loss to crops, including improved livestock husbandry and creating better awareness to the local community could make the locals actor of conservation.
Temperature‐induced multi‐species cohort effects in sympatric snakes
Authors: King Richard B.
Published: February 2022

In reptiles, reproductive maturity is often determined by size rather than age. Consequently, growth early in life may influence population dynamics through effects on generation time and survival to reproduction. Because reproductive phenology and pre‐ and post‐natal growth are temperature dependent, environmental conditions may induce multi‐species cohort effects on body size in sympatric reptiles. I present evidence of this using 10 years of neonatal size data for three sympatric viviparous snakes, Dekay's Brown snakes (Storeria dekayi), Red‐bellied Snakes (S. occipitomaculata), and Common Garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis). End‐of‐season neonatal size varied in parallel across species such that snout–vent length was 36%–61% greater and mass was 65%–223% greater in years when gestating females could achieve higher April–May (vs. June–July or August–September) operative temperatures. Thus, temperature had a larger impact during follicular enlargement and ovulation than during gestation or post‐natal growth. Multi‐species cohort effects like these may affect population dynamics and the magnitude of these effects may increase with climate change.
Humans rather than Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx) shape ungulate browsing patterns in a temperate forest
Authors: van Beeck Calkoen Suzanne T. S. , Deis Michele H. , Oeser Julian , Kuijper Dries P. J. , Heurich Marco
Published: February 2022

The recolonization of human‐dominated landscapes by large carnivores has been followed with considerable scientific interest; however, little is known about their interactive effect on ungulate foraging behavior. This study compared the risks imposed by humans and lynx on ungulate foraging behavior by examining the effects of browsing intensity (at two spatial scales), diet quality, and tree species selection. We hypothesized that: (1) in areas with high risk imposed by humans and lynx browsing intensity would be reduced; (2) risk effects would interact with habitat visibility at a fine scale, resulting in contrasting browsing patterns in response to humans versus lynx risk; (3) ungulates compensate for the higher costs incurred in high‐risk areas by switching to a higher diet quality, and (4) browse a higher proportion of more‐preferred tree species. These hypotheses were tested by measuring browsing intensity along 48 transects located at different distances from human settlements within the hunted and nonhunted areas of the Bavarian Forest. Dung samples were collected and analyzed as a proxy of diet quality (C:N ratio, fiber). The spatial patterns of browsing intensity, diet quality, and tree species selection were then linked to lynx risk, hunting intensity, recreation intensity, and distance to human settlements. Our results showed that (1) browsing intensity strongly decreased with increasing recreational activities, whereas it increased with lynx risk; (2) only in close proximity to human settlements tree browsing was higher in dense habitats and (3) a higher diet quality was obtained. (4) We found a stronger avoidance of the less preferred tree species in high‐hunting intensity areas. In conclusion, our results indicate that the risk effects of human activities outweigh those of a natural large carnivore. Thus, highlighting the importance of taking those activities into account in predicting the impacts of large carnivores on ungulates and their plant‐food choices.
Prevalence and determinants of iron deficiency in cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Jobbé‐Duval Antoine , Bézard Mélanie , Moutereau Stéphane , Kharoubi Mounira , Oghina Silvia , Zaroui Amira , Galat Arnault , Chalard Coraline , Hugon‐Vallet Elisabeth , Lemonnier Francois , Eyharts Damien , Poulot Elsa , Fanen Pascale , Funalot Benoit , Molinier‐Frenkel Valérie , Audard Vincent , Hittinger Luc , Delbarre Marc Antoine , Teiger Emmanuel , Damy Thibaud
Published: February 2022

Aims

Iron deficiency (ID) is common in patient with chronic heart failure (HF) and has been widely studied. In contrast, data concerning ID in cardiac amyloidosis (CA) are limited. Amyloidosis is a severe and fatal systemic disease, characterized by an accumulation of amyloid fibrils in various tissues/organs, including nerves, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and heart. Amyloid deposits in the heart eventually cause HF. The main subtypes of CA are light chain (AL), hereditary transthyretin (ATTRv), and wild‐type transthyretin (ATTRwt). We performed this study to determine the prevalence, clinical outcome (all‐cause mortality), and determinants of ID among the three main subtypes of CA.

Methods and results

Iron deficiency status were analysed in 816 CA patients enrolled at the French Referral Centre for Cardiac Amyloidosis: 271 (33%) had AL, 164 (20%) ATTRv, and 381 (47%) ATTRwt. ID affected 49% of CA patients, 45% with AL, 58% with ATTRv, and 48% with ATTRwt. We identified ATTR status (ATTRv P = 0.003, ATTRwt P = 0.037), diabetes (P = 0.003), aspirin treatment (P = 0.009), haemoglobin levels (P = 0.006), and altered global longitudinal strain (P = 0.02) as independent ID determinants. There is no difference in all‐cause mortality considering ID status.

Conclusions

Iron deficiency is common in patients with CA, irrespective of the subtype. Patients seem more likely to have ID if diagnosed with ATTR, if diabetic, and/or treated with aspirin. In CA, the benefit of intravenous iron therapy, for ID, on morbidity and mortality needs further study.
Mechanosensitive molecular mechanisms of myocardial fibrosis in living myocardial slices
Authors: Nunez‐Toldra Raquel , Kirwin Thomas , Ferraro Elisa , Pitoulis Fotios G. , Nicastro Laura , Bardi Ifigeneia , Kit‐Anan Worrapong , Gorelik Julia , Simon Andre R. , Terracciano Cesare M.
Published: February 2022

Aims

Altered mechanical load in response to injury is a main driver of myocardial interstitial fibrosis. No current in vitro model can precisely modulate mechanical load in a multicellular environment while maintaining physiological behaviour. Living myocardial slices (LMS) are a 300 μm‐thick cardiac preparation with preserved physiological structure and function. Here we apply varying degrees of mechanical preload to rat and human LMS to evaluate early cellular, molecular, and functionality changes related to myocardial fibrosis.

Methods and results

Left ventricular LMS were obtained from Sprague Dawley rat hearts and human cardiac samples from healthy and failing (dilated cardiomyopathy) hearts. LMS were mounted on custom stretchers and two degrees of diastolic load were applied: physiological sarcomere length (SL) (SL = 2.2 μm) and overload (SL = 2.4 μm). LMS were maintained for 48 h under electrical stimulation in circulating, oxygenated media at 37°C. In overloaded conditions, LMS displayed an increase in nucleus translocation of Yes‐associated protein (YAP) and an up‐regulation of mechanotransduction markers without loss in cell viability. Expression of fibrotic and inflammatory markers, as well as Collagen I deposition were also observed. Functionally, overloaded LMS displayed lower contractility (7.48 ± 3.07 mN mm−2 at 2.2 SL vs. 3.53 ± 1.80 mN mm−2 at 2.4 SL). The addition of the profibrotic protein interleukin‐11 (IL‐11) showed similar results to the application of overload with enhanced fibrosis (8% more of collagen surface coverage) and reduced LMS contractility at physiological load. Conversely, treatment with the Transforming growth factor β receptor (TGF‐βR) blocker SB‐431542, showed down‐regulation of genes associated with mechanical stress, prevention of fibrotic response and improvement in cardiac function despite overload (from 2.40 ± 0.8 mN mm−2 to 4.60 ± 1.08 mN mm−2).

Conclusions

The LMS have a consistent fibrotic remodelling response to pathological load, which can be modulated by a TGF‐βR blocker. The LMS platform allows the study of mechanosensitive molecular mechanisms of myocardial fibrosis and can lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
The presence of serum anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgA appears to protect primary health care workers from COVID‐19
Authors: Hennings Viktoria , Thörn Karolina , Albinsson Sofie , Lingblom Christine , Andersson Kerstin , Andersson Christer , Järbur Katarina , Pullerits Rille , Idorn Manja , Paludan Søren R. , Eriksson Kristina , Wennerås Christine
Published: February 2022

The patterns of humoral and cellular responses to SARS‐CoV‐2 were studied in Swedish primary health care workers (n = 156) for 6 months during the Covid‐19 pandemic. Serum IgA and IgG to SARS‐CoV‐2, T‐cell proliferation and cytokine secretion, demographic and clinical data, PCR‐verified infection, and self‐reported symptoms were monitored. The multivariate method OPLS‐DA was used to identify immune response patterns coupled to protection from Covid‐19. Contracting Covid‐19 was associated with SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific neutralizing serum IgG, T cell, IFN‐γ, and granzyme B responses to SARS‐CoV‐2, self‐reported typical Covid‐19 symptoms, male sex, higher BMI, and hypertension. Not contracting Covid‐19 was associated with female sex, IgA‐dominated, or no antibody responses to SARS‐CoV‐2, airborne allergy, and smoking. The IgG‐responders had SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific T‐cell responses including a cytotoxic CD4+ T‐cell population expressing CD25, CD38, CD69, CD194, CD279, CTLA‐4, and granzyme B. IgA‐responders with no IgG response to SARS‐CoV‐2 constituted 10% of the study population. The IgA responses were partially neutralizing and only seen in individuals who did not succumb to Covid‐19. To conclude, serum IgG‐dominated responses correlated with T‐cell responses to SARS‐CoV‐2 and PCR‐confirmed Covid‐19, whereas IgA‐dominated responses correlated with not contracting the infection.
Neuropathic pain in Charcot–Marie‐Tooth disease: A clinical and laser‐evoked potential study
Authors: Peretti Alessia , Squintani Giovanna , Taioli Federica , Tagliapietra Matteo , Cavallaro Tiziana , Fabrizi Gian M.
Published: February 2022

Background

Pain, either nociceptive or neuropathic (NP), is a common symptom in Charcot–Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease.

Methods

We investigated small fibers involvement and its correlation with pain in different CMT subtypes through a systematic clinical and neurophysiological study. We enrolled 50 patients: 19 with duplication of PMP22 (CMT1A), 11 with mutation of MPZ (CMT1B, CMT2I/J, or CMTDID), 12 with mutation of GJB1 (CMTX1), and 8 with mutation of MFN2 (CMT2A and CMT2A2B). Pain was rated with the 11‐point Numerical Rating Scale and characterized through Neuropathic Pain Symptoms Inventory. Laser‐evoked potentials (LEPs) were recorded after right foot and hand stimulation and N2–P2 complex amplitude and latency were compared with those of 41 controls.

Results

Overall pain prevalence was 36%. NP was present in 14.6% of patients, with a length‐dependent distribution in 85.7% of cases, and it was significantly more frequent in CMT1A (p < 0.001). Aδ fibers involvement greatly varies between CMT subtypes, reflecting differences in molecular pathology and pathophysiologic mechanisms. Prolonged N2 latency from foot stimulation was noted in 11 CMT1A patients, 5 of which report NP. MPZ‐CMTs displayed different neurophysiological phenotypes and a very low prevalence of NP. LEPs were normal in all but one CMTX1 patients, although lower limbs N2‐P2 amplitude was significantly reduced in males (p = 0.043). MFN2‐CMTs were NP free and LEPs recordings were all normal. NP strictly correlated with LEPs alterations (p = 0.017).

Conclusions

NP prevalence varies among CMTs subtypes and is mainly related to Aδ fibers impairment.

Significance

Neuropathic pain is a frequent finding in Charcot–Marie Tooth disease and is related to Aδ fibers impairment. Patients at higher risk are those belonging to certain genetic subtypes (i.e. CMT1A and CMT2J) or with laser‐evoked potentials abnormalities. While managing this disease, clinicians should be aware of this symptom in order to offer best treatment options to their patients.
Placebo response varies between different types of sham acupuncture: A randomized double‐blind trial in neck pain patients
Authors: Zeng Dian , Yan Xiaoxia , Deng Hongmei , Li Jiemei , Xiao Jiaxin , Yuan Jiawei , Huang Jianpeng , Xu Nenggui , Fu Wenbin , Liu Jianhua
Published: February 2022

Background

In prospective experimental studies of neck pain patients, it is difficult to determine whether responses to sham acupuncture differ from responses to real acupuncture due to the heterogeneous methodologies in control/sham interventions. Here we aim to compare the specific and nonspecific effects of electroacupuncture with four types of sham acupuncture.

Methods

In this double‐blind, sham‐controlled study, we randomly assigned 175 patients with neck pain to receive 10 sessions of electroacupuncture, shallow puncture, nonacupoint deep puncture, nonacupoint shallow puncture, or nonpenetration acupuncture. We used the Northwick Park Neck Pain Questionnaire (NPQ) as our primary outcome, and Short‐form McGill Pain Questionnaire, visual analog scale (VAS), and Pain Threshold as secondary outcomes to measure the changes from baseline to a 3‐month follow up.

Results

All groups, except nonacupoint shallow puncture, had significant improvement in all outcome measurements. Electroacupuncture only showed superior improvements than the shallow puncture, nonacupoint shallow puncture, and nonpenetration groups when compared using the NPQ and VAS scale (*p < 0.001). Interestingly, the nonacupoint shallow puncture produced even less placebo response than nonpenetration acupuncture.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the high variability of placebo response among different types of sham controls depending on the depth of needle insertion and the puncture location. An important implication of our results is nonacupoint deep puncture produced similar analgesic effects as electroacupuncture. Our study may shed a new light on the predominant underlying mechanisms among different types of sham acupuncture controls, which can help with interpreting the effect of acupuncture in other studies.

Trial registration

Chinese clinical trial registry (ChiCTR‐IOR‐15006886).

Significance

This study compared the observed specific and nonspecific analgesia effect in four different types of sham acupuncture stimulation with neck pain patients, assessed by four outcomes. Although all of the sham controls produced significant reduction in neck pain, electroacupuncture had superior significant improvement. Importantly, placebo responses differed significantly between the sham controls and responses were inconsistent according to different outcome assessments. This study emphasizes the importance of taking into consideration which sham control and method of outcome measurement were used in a pain research study when evaluating its results.
Investigations of combustion, performance, and emission characteristics in a diesel engine fueled with Prunus domestica methyl ester and n‐butanol blends
Authors: Nalla Bhanu Teja , Devarajan Yuvarajan , Subbiah Ganesan , Sharma Dilip Kumar , Krishnamurthy Vybhav , Mishra Ruby
Published: February 2022

The chief objective of this study is to utilize non‐edible, carbon‐rich oil derived from Prunus domestica seeds as blended fuel. The combustion efficiency of derived blends shall further be enhanced by blending higher alcohol into biodiesel/diesel blends. This work details the impact of effectively utilizing waste and non‐edible oil to replace fossil fuels partially. In this study, the P. domestica is trans‐esterified to methyl ester and blended with diesel at 20%. Further to enhance the ignition nature, butanol, higher alcohol, is blended to P. domestica biodiesel/diesel blends at 5% and 10%. The ignition pattern of the modified fuels is extensively studied and compared with diesel in a stationary research diesel engine. This study involves four fuel samples, namely, neat P. domestica methyl ester and is termed PDME. 20% of PDME is blended with 80% diesel is referred to as PDME20. 20% of PDME with 5% n‐butanol and 75% diesel is termed PDME20Bu5D75, 20% of PDME with 10% n‐butanol and 70% diesel is termed as PDME20Bu10D70 and diesel. Addition of PDME and butanol at different blends found miscible with diesel. PDME and butanol provided a suitable time for reaction and mixing, complete combustion, higher O2 content, and rich fuel‐air mixture, resulting in lower emissions than diesel. Further, butanol aided better atomization, effective combustion and resulted in higher efficiency with lower fuel consumption. Adding butanol also lowered the viscosity and improved the mixing process, and produced better in‐cylinder pressure and heat release rate.
Study on aerodynamic performance of mine air duct horizontal axis wind turbine based on breeze power generation
Authors: Gui Xiaohong , Xue Haiteng , Su Shujun , Hu Zhengyu , Xu Yufeng
Published: February 2022

The development of wireless sensor network based on breeze power generation is of great significance to promote the development of the intelligent mine. According to the underground environment of coalmine, a small horizontal axis wind turbine with mine air duct was designed. The aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine was analyzed by constructing the three‐dimensional solid model of the wind turbine. The results show that under the condition of underground low wind speed. Outer basin: the air flow entering the air duct is accelerated and rectified, and the speed increases near the impeller. The pressure value at the front end of the blade is the largest and the pressure value at the rear end of the blade is the smallest. A certain range of negative pressure zone is formed at the rear end of the impeller, which is conducive to the operation of the wind turbine. After passing through the impeller, the speed of the air flow decreases and is the lowest near the impeller rotating shaft. Inner basin: the air flow speed gradually increases along the radial direction of the impeller center. The pressure at the front end of the blade is greater than the atmospheric pressure, which is conducive to facilitating the operation of the wind turbine. When the wind speed reaches the rated wind speed of the wind turbine, the power, torque, and output power of the wind turbine increase, which can provide effective power generation. Compared with other airfoils, NACA5505 airfoil has higher lift drag ratio and thrust coefficient. Compared with the wind turbine without air duct, the wind turbine with air duct has higher wind energy conversion and output power under the condition of low Reynolds number, which verifies the feasibility of the wind turbine with air duct.
Revisit to the THINC/QQ scheme: Recent progress to improve accuracy and robustness
Authors: Chen Dezhu , Xie Bin , Xiao Feng
Published: February 2022

In this article, we revisit to the THINC/QQ (tangent of hyperbola interface capturing method with quadratic surface representation and Gaussian quadrature) scheme to make thorough investigations on its numerical property. Furthermore, it presents some recent progress made extensively on THINC/QQ algorithm to improve numerical accuracy and robustness which include (1) construct the interface equation on the global coordinate so as to apply THINC/QQ on polygonal/polyhedral elements, which ensures the boundedness of numerical solutions as well; (2) determine the coefficients of reconstruction polynomial from the unit normal vector of interface to reduce computational cost and alleviate numerical diffusion; (3) represent the interface with a cubic polynomial rather than quadratic representation used in THINC/QQ to obtain better geometric fidelity; (4) provide an appropriate choice considering different combinations, such as the number of quadrature points and temporal discretization methods. The verification benchmark tests are carried out on different types of grids, which convinces that THINC/QQ scheme with normalization on global coordinate delivers higher accuracy and robustness than the original one, and demonstrates effective competition compared with other existing interface capturing methods.
Early Cretaceous back‐arc basin basalt‐type gabbros in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau: Implications for Neo‐Tethyan oceanic slab subduction
Authors: Xie Zhipeng , Xue Chuandong , Yang Tiannan , Wang Wei , Liu Jingkun , Xin Di
Published: February 2022

Although progress has been made in defining and explaining the temporal and spatial distributions of Neo‐Tethyan magmatism in the Tibet–Himalaya region, the correlation of magmatic suites in the SE Tibetan Plateau remains poorly constrained. This paper reports zircon U–Pb dating, geochemistry, and Sr–Nd isotope compositions of a concealed gabbroic unit (coverage area of >6.0 km2) in the southern Lancangjiang tectonic zone, western Yunnan, SW China. Zircon 206Pb/238U ages of 143–133 Ma indicate that the unit formed during the Early Cretaceous (ca. 139.7 Ma). The gabbro samples have variable MgO (7.88–16.1 wt%; Mg# = 58–74) and relatively low TiO2 (0.76–1.24 wt%) and total‐alkali (K2O + Na2O = 2.61–4.06 wt%) contents. The samples exhibit weakly fractionated rare earth element (REE) patterns with slight depletion in light REEs and negligible Eu anomalies. In a primitive‐mantle‐normalized element‐variation diagram, the gabbros, display variable enrichment in large‐ion lithophile elements and relatively flat patterns of high‐field‐strength elements. Initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios of 0.7079 to 0.7142 and relatively depleted εNd(t) values of +3.96 to +4.84 are similar to those of the mantle source of back‐arc basin basalts (BABBs) in the central Lhasa Block and mid‐ocean ridge basalt in the Indus–Tsangpo Suture Zone. These various characteristics suggest that the gabbroic unit was derived from a shallow and depleted mantle source by relatively high‐degree partial melting in the spinel stability field. The parental magma underwent slight crustal contamination, as well as fractional crystallization of clinopyroxene. The studied gabbros have distinct BABB‐type geochemical affinities similar to those of the Okinawa BABB. Combining our data with the coeval occurrence of a continental rift basin (the Simao–Lanping Basin) leads us to suggest the existence of a back‐arc rifting setting in the SE Tibetan Plateau during the Jurassic–Cretaceous. This setting can also be geochronologically and genetically correlated to the back‐arc basin developed within the Lhasa Block. These settings and constituent characteristics formed as a result of Neo‐Tethyan oceanic slab subduction during the late Mesozoic.
Performance analysis of direct solar dryer driven by photovoltaic thermal energy recovery and solar air collector for drying materials and electricity generation
Authors: Kabeel A. E. , El‐Sheekh Mostafa M. , Masoud Alaa A.
Published: February 2022

The direct‐type solar dryer is characterized by very simple construction, less maintenance, cost‐effectiveness, and is easy to handle. The present study aims to enhance the performance of a direct‐type solar dryer. To achieve this, the photovoltaic (PV) panels with thermal energy recovery and solar air collector were integrated with the direct‐type solar dryer. In this study, the PV panels with thermal energy recovery and solar air collector were utilized as preheating units to raise the air temperature before entering the direct solar dryer. Moreover, the PV panels were utilized to drive the air blower. In this study, three incorporated models are suggested to study the performance of the solar dryer integrated with PV panels with thermal energy recovery and solar air collector. The model of each component was validated by the previously recorded empirical data. The results confirmed that the dual utilization of the PV panels with thermal energy recovery and solar air collector as a preheating unit raised the air temperature entering the direct solar dryer by the rate varying between 29°C and 42°C within the period 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Also, the moisture content of banana samples inside the direct solar dryer reduced from the initial value of 72% (wb) to the value of 33.4% (wb) within 7 h (9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.). During this operating period, moisture removal from the banana samples varied between 110 and 400 g/h.
The impact of COVID‐19 on cancer care of outpatients with low socioeconomic status
Authors: Zeilinger Elisabeth L. , Lubowitzki Simone , Unseld Matthias , Schneckenreiter Carmen , Heindl Daniel , Staber Philipp B. , Raderer Markus , Valent Peter , Zöchbauer‐Müller Sabine , Bartsch Rupert , Prager Gerald , Jaeger Ulrich , Gaiger Alexander
Published: February 2022

Patients with low socioeconomic status (SES) are among the most underserved groups of people regarding cancer care. Analyzing the impact of the coronavirus‐induced disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic on health care disparities and calling attention to inequalities in cancer care is crucial to justify and initiate adequate countermeasures. We aimed to determine whether the COVID‐19 pandemic aggravated health care disparities of cancer outpatients related to their SES and analyzed patient data of the largest university center providing services for patients with hematologic and oncologic disorders in Austria from 2018 to 2021. SES was assessed using three indicators: monthly net household income, level of education and occupational prestige. In total, 1217 cancer outpatients (51.1% female) with a mean age of 59.4 years (SD = 14.2) participated. In the first year of the pandemic, the relative proportion of individuals with low income, low education level and low occupational prestige seeking cancer care at our outpatient center decreased significantly (P ≤ .015). The strongest indicator was income, with a consistent effect throughout the first pandemic year. Countermeasures and specific interventions to support cancer patients with low SES in their access to health care should be initiated and prioritized.
Groundwater quality evaluation for potable and irrigation uses in the semi‐arid region of southern Iran
Authors: Bahrami Mehdi , Khaksar Elmira , Bahrami Amir
Published: February 2022

Iran is in a serious freshwater shortage crisis because its major part is located in arid and semi‐arid areas. This research evaluated the groundwater quality in terms of potable and irrigation uses in the wet and dry seasons in the Kazeroon plain, southern Iran. In this study, a total of 408 groundwater samples were gathered from 68 boreholes to measure water quality indices, such as acidity (pH), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), bicarbonate (HCO3−), chloride (Cl−), sulphate (SO42−), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+). Geographical information system technology was also applied to draw maps of spatial changes of water quality parameters. The results showed that groundwater quality indices had the minimum and maximum values of pH (6.9–8.6), EC (414–9,813 μmho cm−1) and TDS (278–6,180), TH (175–3250), HCO3− (152–518), Cl− (5–1950), SO42− (17–2371), Ca2+ (30–681), Mg2+ (12–607), Na+ (1–1303) and K+ (0.8–18) (mg L−1). Based on World Health Organization standards, the results indicated that all of the aquifer water in the plain except for the northern region was of poor and very poor quality for potable usages. Also, the United States Salinity Laboratory diagram showed that the groundwater quality is doubtful for irrigation. Therefore, the cultivation pattern in this plain should be switched towards salt‐tolerant crops.
Irrigation canal control using enhanced fuzzy SARSA learning
Authors: Shahverdi Kazem , Javad Monem Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Fuzzy SARSA learning (FSL) is a robust reinforcement learning (RL) technique that represents successful solutions in various industrial problems. Water management in irrigation canals is one of these problems where an FSL agent interacts with the canal environment to control the gates. FSL often requires a large number of interactive experiences and takes a long time in real‐life problems. To reduce the iteration and speed up the learning process, an enhanced FSL (EFSL) was developed to accelerate the process of policy learning. A MATLAB program was written, and combined with the irrigation canal conveyance system simulation (ICSS) model. To evaluate the proposed idea, the E1R1 Dez canal, located in the south‐west of Iran, was considered as a case study. Standard performance indicators were used for assessing the results based on considered water delivery scenarios, showing a shorter learning time with reasonable performance in controlling water depth changes within the canal.
Submicron topography design for controlling staphylococcal bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation
Authors: Xu Li‐Chong , Siedlecki Christopher A.
Published: February 2022

Surface topography modification with nano‐ or micro‐textured structures has been an efficient approach to inhibit microbial adhesion and biofilm formation and thereby to prevent biomaterial‐associated infection without modification of surface chemistry/bulk properties of materials and without causing antibiotic resistance. This manuscript focuses on submicron‐textured patterns with ordered arrays of pillars on polyurethane (PU) biomaterial surfaces in an effort to understand the effects of surface pillar features and surface properties on adhesion and colonization responses of two staphylococcal strains. Five submicron patterns with a variety of pillar dimensions were designed and fabricated on PU film surfaces and bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation of Staphylococcal strains (Staphylococcus epidermidis RP62A and Staphylococcus aureus Newman D2C) were characterized. Results show that all submicron textured surface significantly reduced bacterial adhesion and inhibited biofilm formation, and bacterial adhesion linearly decreased with the reduction in top surface area fraction. Surface wettability did not show a linear correlation with bacterial adhesion, suggesting that surface contact area dominates bacterial adhesion. From this, it appears that the design of textured patterns should minimize surface area fraction to reduce the bacterial interaction with surfaces but in a way that ensures the mechanical strength of pillars in order to avoid collapse. These findings may provide a rationale for design of polymer surfaces for antifouling medical devices.
Morphological adaptations on the eye of the golden gray mullet (Chelon aurata): Using light and scanning electron microscopical study
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Massoud Ehab , El‐Kott Attalla , Morsy Kareem , El‐Bakary Neveen , Abumandour Ramzy , El‐Mansi Ahmed , Kandyel Ramadan
Published: February 2022

The present investigations were designed to describe the ultrastructural properties of the eye of the golden gray mullet (Chelon aurata). For this purpose, the eyes were examined grossly, and by light and electron microscope. The external layer consists of the cornea and the sclera. Three layers compose the cornea; the anterior stratified cuboidal epithelial; the anterior limiting (Bowman) membrane; and the thick dermal layer of the stroma. The mucoidal layer has small collagen fiber bundles embedded in the CT layer and located between the anterior portion of the scleral cornea and the dermal stroma, (or “substancia propria”). The iridescent layer is thin at the center and thick at the periphery. It contains a pigmented layer with many ossicles. SEM analysis reveals that the cornea consists of undetermined shaped cells joined together by numerous thread‐like micro‐ridges, with several micro‐tubercles on the external surface. The photoreceptor layer had two types of cells: the rod‐shaped and the cone‐shaped cells. The cone cells differentiate into two types of cells: single and double cells. SEM analysis of the retina showed that rod cells appear as thin long uniform rod‐like, while the cone cells appear as rod cells with ovoid bases. SEM analysis demonstrates that the inner side of the retinal epithelium appears to be wrapped around itself. The morphological appearance of the eye adapts to life in superficial aquatic conditions. In conclusion, the current findings provide morphologic evidence to better understand the mechanism of fish vision adaptation to environmental conditions.

Research Highlights

The transparent cornea composed of three layers; anterior stratified cuboidal epithelial, Bowman's membrane, and a thick dermal stromal layer. The mucoidal layer is formed from small collagen fibers bundles embedded in the CT layer and located between the anterior portion of the scleral cornea and the dermal stroma. There are two types of photoreceptor cells: rod and cone cells. Cone cells can be single and double cells.
The long‐term impact of receiving incidental findings on parents undergoing genome‐wide sequencing
Authors: Cheung Faith , Birch Patricia , Friedman J. M. ,   CAUSES Study,   GenCOUNSEL Study, Elliott Alison M , Adam Shelin
Published: February 2022

Genome‐wide (exome or genome) sequencing (GWS) has the potential to detect incidental findings (IFs): variants unrelated to the primary indication for testing that may be of medical or personal utility. As GWS becomes increasingly common in clinical practice, it is important to understand the impact of IFs on the individuals and their families. Our goal was to explore the immediate and long‐term lived experience of individuals who received IFs as part of diagnostic GWS. We interviewed parents who received an IF as part of the CAUSES translational research study at Children's and Women's Health Centre of British Columbia. Five hundred families were offered trio‐based GWS for their child with a suspected, undiagnosed genetic condition. Nine hundred and one of the 1000 parents chose to find out about IFs and 21 parents received an IF for themselves. Twelve of these parents participated in this study. They were interviewed an average of 2.3 years after the IFs were returned. Thematic analysis of transcribed interviews revealed that the participants’ decisions and motivations to receive IFs were influenced by personal values and beliefs and by having a child with a suspected genetic condition. Participants’ experiences were also influenced by the type of IF received, having a personal or family history of a related condition, their personal interpretation and perceived utility of the information, and the impact of the IF on other family members. Participants expressed either no regret or mild decisional regret on the Decisional Regret Scale. Two years post results, most participants reported little negative impact from receiving the IF. The utility of the information varied: some reported lifestyle changes and proactive screening, while others felt the information may be more relevant in the future. Understanding the immediate and longer term impact of receiving IFs from GWS can inform both pre‐ and post‐test genetic counseling.
Treatment Response and Prognosis Evaluation in High‐Grade Glioma: An Imaging Review Based on MRI
Authors: Zhou Qing , Xue Caiqiang , Ke Xiaoai , Zhou Junlin
Published: February 2022

In recent years, the development of advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology and machine learning (ML) have created new tools for evaluating treatment response and prognosis of patients with high‐grade gliomas (HGG); however, patient prognosis has not improved significantly. This is mainly due to the heterogeneity between and within HGG tumors, resulting in standard treatment methods not benefitting all patients. Moreover, the survival of patients with HGG is not only related to tumor cells, but also to noncancer cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Therefore, during preoperative diagnosis and follow‐up treatment of patients with HGG, noninvasive imaging markers are needed to characterize intratumoral heterogeneity, and then to evaluate treatment response and predict prognosis, timeously adjust treatment strategies, and achieve individualized diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we summarize the research progress of conventional MRI, advanced MRI technology, and ML in evaluation of treatment response and prognosis of patients with HGG. We further discuss the significance of the TME in the prognosis of HGG patients, associate imaging features with the TME, indirectly reflecting the heterogeneity within the tumor, and shifting treatment strategies from tumor cells alone to systemic therapy of the TME, which may be a major development direction in the future.

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy Stage

4
Efficacy of antibody response following the vaccination of SARS‐CoV‐2 infected and noninfected healthcare workers by two‐dose inactive vaccine against COVID‐19
Authors: Dundar Bagnu , Karahangil Kadriye , Elgormus Cagri Serdar , Topsakal Hatice Nur Halipci
Published: February 2022

Sinovac is an inactive vaccine produced against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) for almost a year. No sufficient information is available concerning pro‐vaccine immunogenicity. We investigated the efficacy of antibody response following vaccination of SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected and noninfected healthcare workers by a two‐dose inactive vaccine against COVID‐19. The immunogenicity acquired on the 27th day and 42nd day after the first dose of vaccine (corresponding to Day 14 after the second dose) were compared by the demographics, immunosuppression, comorbidities, postvaccination reaction, and IgG levels of 120 subjects. The overall rate of second postvaccine seropositivity was 97.5% (n = 117) of all individuals, and 44 of these were seropositive after the first dose. The percentage of having a previous COVID‐19 (59.1%) among seropositive individuals before 2nd vaccination was significantly higher than those of seropositive individuals (10.96%) after second vaccination (p < 0.0001). In our study, 35 healthcare workers stated that they had previously had a COVID‐19 infection. Anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody responses in people infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 follow a classical pattern, with a rapid increase within the first 3 weeks after the appearance of symptoms. Although the titers decreased thereafter, the ability to detect anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG antibodies supports the view that the majority of subjects previously screened as positive for virus remain intact with confirmed neutralizing activity for up to 6 months.
Regulation of AMPAR trafficking in synaptic plasticity by BDNF and the impact of neurodegenerative disease
Authors: Keifer Joyce
Published: February 2022

Research demonstrates that the neural mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity and learning and memory involve mobilization of AMPA‐type neurotransmitter receptors at glutamatergic synaptic contacts, and that these mechanisms are targeted during neurodegenerative disease. Strengthening neural transmission occurs with insertion of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptors (AMPARs) into synapses while weakening results from receptor withdrawal. A key player in the trafficking of AMPARs during plasticity and learning is the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling system. BDNF is a neurotrophic factor that supports neuronal growth and is required for learning and memory. Significantly, a primary feature of many neurodegenerative diseases is a reduction in BDNF protein as well as disrupted neuronal surface expression of synaptic AMPARs. The resulting weakening of synaptic contacts leads to synapse loss and neuronal degeneration that underlies the cognitive impairment and dementia observed in patients with progressive neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s. In the face of these data, one therapeutic approach is to increase BDNF bioavailability in brain. While this has been met with significant challenges, the results of the research have been promising. In spite of this, there are currently no clinical trials to test many of these findings on patients. Here, research showing that BDNF drives AMPARs to synapses, AMPAR trafficking is essential for synaptic plasticity and learning, and that neurodegenerative disease results in a significant decline in BDNF will be reviewed. The aim is to draw attention to the need for increasing patient‐directed clinical studies to test the possible benefits of increasing levels of neurotrophins, specifically BDNF, to treat brain disorders. Much is known about the cellular mechanisms that underlie learning and memory in brain. It can be concluded that signaling by neurotrophins like BDNF and AMPA‐type glutamate receptor synaptic trafficking are fundamental to these processes. Data from animal models and patients reveal that these mechanisms are adversely targeted during neurodegenerative disease and results in memory loss and cognitive decline. A brief summary of our understanding of these mechanisms indicates that it is time to apply this knowledge base directly to development of therapeutic treatments that enhance neurotrophins for brain disorders in patient populations.