bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis as a Design Variable for Oxide Materials
Authors: Vaughey Jack , Trask Steve , Poeppelmeier Ken
Published: March 2021

When studying a new electrochemical couple, numerous variables affect how it is evaluated, how successful it is judged to be, and system properties. In the energy storage field, many researchers evaluate materials using performance metrics that might include capacity, rate capability, or cell impedance values to assess various cell chemistries. Behind these numbers are underlying attributes such as particle morphology, tap density, particle size, surface functionality, and even growth facet that are influenced by the method synthesis. These characteristics can carry through to the final product as the material is transformed into an electrode, high-surface-area catalyst support, or a stand-alone sintered ceramic. In this article, the focus will be on, at a high level, how the synthesis procedure chosen and the variables that come with that choice influence the observed properties of the final product.
Regulation of cerebral blood flow in humans: physiology and clinical implications of autoregulation
Authors: Claassen Jurgen A. H. R. , Thijssen Dick H. J. , Panerai Ronney B. , Faraci Frank M.
Published: March 2021

Brain function critically depends on a close matching between metabolic demands, appropriate delivery of oxygen and nutrients, and removal of cellular waste. This matching requires continuous regulation of cerebral blood flow (CBF), which can be categorized into four broad topics: 1) autoregulation, which describes the response of the cerebrovasculature to changes in perfusion pressure; 2) vascular reactivity to vasoactive stimuli [including carbon dioxide (CO2)]; 3) neurovascular coupling (NVC), i.e., the CBF response to local changes in neural activity (often standardized cognitive stimuli in humans); and 4) endothelium-dependent responses. This review focuses primarily on autoregulation and its clinical implications. To place autoregulation in a more precise context, and to better understand integrated approaches in the cerebral circulation, we also briefly address reactivity to CO2and NVC. In addition to our focus on effects of perfusion pressure (or blood pressure), we describe the impact of select stimuli on regulation of CBF (i.e., arterial blood gases, cerebral metabolism, neural mechanisms, and specific vascular cells), the interrelationships between these stimuli, and implications for regulation of CBF at the level of large arteries and the microcirculation. We review clinical implications of autoregulation in aging, hypertension, stroke, mild cognitive impairment, anesthesia, and dementias. Finally, we discuss autoregulation in the context of common daily physiological challenges, including changes in posture (e.g., orthostatic hypotension, syncope) and physical activity.
Differences of Positive Linear Operators on Simplices
Authors: Acu Ana-Maria , Başcanbaz-Tunca Gülen , Rasa Ioan
Published: March 2021

The aim of the paper is twofold: we introduce new positive linear operators acting on continuous functions defined on a simplex and then estimate differences involving them and/or other known operators. The estimates are given in terms of moduli of smoothness and

K

-functionals. Several applications and examples illustrate the general results.
Assessment of Food Safety and Food Handling Practice Knowledge among College of Basic Education Students, Kuwait
Authors: Ashkanani Fatemah , Husain Wafaa , A Al Dwairji Maryam
Published: March 2021

The aim of this study is to assess the overall food safety knowledge of students at the College of Basic Education in Kuwait and to explore the relationship between their knowledge and demographic characteristics. A valid questionnaire was used that included 16 food handling practice (FHP) questions and 15 food safety knowledge (FSK) questions. Each question had one correct answer that was awarded a score of one point, while a score of zero was given for all incorrect answers. In addition, a passing percentage was calculated. A passing percentage is the percentage of participants who answered correctly ≥ 50% of the questions. A total of 585 students participated in the study (mean age = 21.3 ± 3.88 years). The results showed that the mean score of FHP was 7.56 ± 1.96 (47.2%), with the highest mean practices being using a paper towel to dry hands and washing hands before cooking or eating (91.5% and 90.1%, resp.). The lowest mean practices (5.3%) were checking the temperature of burgers followed by (6%) the way of defrosting meat. The mean score of FSK was 3.44 ± 2.00 (22.9%), with the highest mean knowledge (63.8%) being related to cleaning the kitchen counter. The lowest mean knowledge (6.8%) was related to the optimum growth temperature for the most disease-causing bacteria. The overall passing percentage of FHP was 55%, while it was 2.9% for FSK. The results obtained showed that the students with the highest FHP scores were generally female, aged ≥ 28 years, and single, and they cook by themselves all the time or sometimes (

p
<
0.001

,

p
<
0.001

,

p
<
0.001

, and

p
=
0.004

, resp.). The students with the highest FSK scores were generally male and they cook by themselves all the time or sometimes (

p
=
0.018

and

p
=
0.002

, resp.). In conclusion, the study showed that students had insufficient scores for FHP and FSK. Therefore, an effective food safety education programme is urgently needed.
Research on Mining of Applied Mathematics Educational Resources Based on Edge Computing and Data Stream Classification
Authors: Lu Liping , Zhou Jing
Published: March 2021

Facing the massive data of higher education institutions, data mining technology is an intelligent information processing technology that can effectively discover knowledge from the massive data and can discover important information that people have previously ignored from the huge data information. This article is dedicated to the development of applied mathematics education resource mining technology based on edge computing and data stream classification. First of all, this article establishes a resource system architecture suitable for existing applied mathematics education through edge computing technology, which can effectively improve the efficiency of data mining. Secondly, the data stream classification algorithm is used for information extraction and classification integration of massive applied mathematical education data. This method provides potential and valuable information for decision-makers and education practitioners. Finally, the simulation and performance test of the system verify that it has the functions of mathematical information mining and data processing. This system will provide strong support for applied mathematics education reform.
Otsu’s Image Segmentation Algorithm with Memory‐Based Fruit Fly Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Chai Ruishuai
Published: March 2021

In this paper, the most common pepper noise in grayscale image noise is investigated in depth in the median filtering algorithm, and the improved median filtering algorithm, adaptive switching median filtering algorithm, and adaptive polar median filtering algorithm are applied to the OTSU algorithm. Two improved OTSU algorithms such as the adaptive switched median filter‐based OTSU algorithm and the polar adaptive median filter‐based OTSU algorithm are obtained. The experimental results show that the algorithm can better cope with grayscale images contaminated by pretzel noise, and the segmented grayscale images are not only clear but also can better retain the detailed features of grayscale images. A genetic algorithm is a kind of search algorithm with high adaptive, fast operation speed, and good global space finding ability, and it will have a good effect when applied to the threshold finding of the OTSU algorithm. However, the traditional genetic algorithm will fall into the local optimal solution in different degrees when finding the optimal threshold. The advantages of the two interpolation methods proposed in this paper are that one is the edge grayscale image interpolation algorithm using OTSU threshold adaptive segmentation and the other is the edge grayscale image interpolation algorithm using local adaptive threshold segmentation, which can accurately divide the grayscale image region according to the characteristics of different grayscale images and effectively improve the loss of grayscale image edge detail information and jagged blur caused by the classical interpolation algorithm. The visual effect of grayscale images is enhanced by selecting grayscale images from the standard grayscale image test set and interpolating them with bilinear interpolation, bucolic interpolation, NEDI interpolation, and FEOI interpolation for interpolation simulation validation. The subjective evaluation and objective evaluation, as well as the running time, are compared, respectively, showing that the method of this paper can effectively improve the quality of grayscale image interpolation.
Performance Degradation Assessment of Rotary Machinery Based on a Multiscale Tsallis Permutation Entropy Method
Authors: Chen Yong , Jiang Mian , He Kuanfang
Published: March 2021

Methods based on vibration analysis are currently regarded as the most conclusive means for fault diagnosis and health prognostics in rotary machinery. However, changing working conditions mean that the vibration signals originating from rotary machinery exhibit different levels of complexity. This complexity leads to increased difficulty in constructing health indicators (HIs). In this paper, we propose a multiscale Tsallis permutation entropy (MTPE) to construct the HIs of rotary machinery under different working conditions. MTPE values are a function of an entropy index and scale, which have the universality for handling the complexity of a permutated time series. The health condition of the rotary machinery was effectively represented by the MTPEs in conditional monitoring; the initial point of the unhealthy stage was found using the 3σ interval. This was set as the alarm threshold according to the varying HI trend. Once this was established, dividing the stages into two‐stage health stages (HS) was straightforward. Using a rolling bearing, a run‐to‐failure experiment was conducted and results suggested that the proposed method effectively assessed the status of the rotary machinery. Taken together, this study provided a novel complexity measure based on a methodology for constructing the HIs of rotary machinery and enriches conditional monitoring theory.
Design of Harmonic AFM Probe Subjected to van der Waals Force in the Modified Couple Stress Theory
Authors: Lin Shueei-Muh , Chang Ching-Yao , Liauh Chihng-Tsung , Wang Wen-Rong
Published: March 2021

The conventional design of harmonic AFM probe geometry is made in neglect of the effects of the size-dependency factor and the tip-sample interacting force. Obviously, the effect of these two factors on the natural frequencies of a probe is significant. In this study, the effects of the two factors on the integer-multiples relation among frequencies are investigated. In this study, the effects of the two factors on the integer-multiples relation among frequencies are investigated. It is discovered that, in general, the integer-multiples relations of the probe’s frequencies in the classical model does not be kept as the same as that in the system with the effect of the size-dependency factor under the same material and geometry properties of probe. In addition, when the probe is used to measure the sample, the deviation of the relations will happen. The smaller the tip-sample distance is, the larger the deviation of integer-multiples frequencies is. The analytical method is presented here such that during scanning a sample at some tip-sample distance, the material and geometry properties of the probe can be tuned to the integer-multiples relation of resonant frequencies. Moreover, five similarity conditions among the systems with and without the effects of size-dependency and the tip-sample interacting force are discovered. According to these conditions, the integer-multiples relation is kept in different systems.
Blockchain as a CA: A Provably Secure Signcryption Scheme Leveraging Blockchains
Authors: Chen Tzung-Her , Zhu Ting-Le , Jeng Fuh-Gwo , Wang Chien-Lung
Published: March 2021

Although encryption and signatures have been two fundamental technologies for cryptosystems, they still receive considerable attention in academia due to the focus on reducing computational costs and communication overhead. In the past decade, applying certificateless signcryption schemes to solve the higher cost of maintaining the certificate chain issued by a certificate authority (CA) has been studied. With the recent increase in the interest in blockchains, signcryption is being revisited as a new possibility. The concepts of a blockchain as a CA and a transaction as a certificate proposed in this paper aim to use a blockchain without CAs or a trusted third party (TTP). The proposed provably secure signcryption scheme implements a designated recipient beforehand such that a sender can cryptographically facilitate the interoperation on the blockchain information with the designated recipient. Thus, the proposed scheme benefits from the following advantages: (1) it removes the high maintenance cost from involving CAs or a TTP, (2) it seamlessly integrates with blockchains, and (3) it provides confidential transactions. This paper also presents the theoretical security analysis and assesses the performance via the simulation results. Upon evaluating the operational cost in real currency based on Ethereum, the experimental results demonstrate that the proposed scheme only requires a small cost as a fee.
Analysis of Travel Hot Spots of Taxi Passengers Based on Community Detection
Authors: Bi Shuoben , Sheng Yuyu , He Wenwu , Fan Jingjin , Xu Ruizhuang
Published: March 2021

It is an important content of smart city research to study the activity track of urban residents, dig out the hot spot areas and spatial interaction patterns of different residents’ activities, and clearly understand the travel rules of urban residents' activities. This study used community detection to analyze taxi passengers’ travel hot spots based on taxi pick-up and drop-off data, combined with multisource information such as land use, in the main urban area of Nanjing. The study revealed that, for the purpose of travel, the modularity and anisotropy rate of the community where the passengers were picked up and dropped off were positively correlated during the morning and evening peak hours and negatively correlated at other times. Depending on the community structure, pick-up and drop-off points reached significant aggregation within the community, and interactions among the communities were also revealed. Based on the type of land use, as passengers' travel activity increased, travel hot spots formed clusters in urban spaces. After comparative verification, the results of this study were found to be accurate and reliable and can provide a reference for urban planning and traffic management.
Clinical and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. Dental Varnish in Children: A Clinical Study
Authors: Valadas Lídia Audrey Rocha , Lobo Patrícia Leal Dantas , Fonseca Said Gonçalves da Cruz , Fechine Francisco Vagnaldo , Rodrigues Neto Edilson Martins , Fonteles Marta Maria de França , Aguiar Trévia Lorena Ribeiro de , Vasconcelos Hilda Lara Prado , Lima Sandra Mara da Silva , Lotif Mara Assef Leitao , Fernandes Analice Mendes Barreto , Bandeira Mary Anne Medeiros
Published: March 2021

Background. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological efficacies of (C. langsdorffii) dental varnish in children at high risk of dental caries.. Methods. This is a longitudinal, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Ninety high-risk caries-free children (ICDAS II = 0) were recruited and randomly divided into three groups: C. langsdorffii, chlorhexidine, or fluoride. The varnishes were applied on the second deciduous molars for three times: baseline (D0), after 90 days (D90), and after 180 days (D180). Saliva was collected on D0, D90, D180, and D360 to evaluate S. mutans reduction. Statistics were carried out by ANOVA, Tukey’s test, and the paired t-test. Results. Copaiba varnish demonstrated significant S. mutans reduction: D360 versus D0

p
<
0.0001

, D180 versus D0

p
<
0.001

, D360 versus D90

p
<
0.001

, D180 versus D90

p

<

0.001

, and D360 versus D180

p
<
0.05

. Chlorhexidine varnish significantly reduced S. mutans at D180 versus D0

p
<
0.05

. Fluoride reduced at D180 versus D0

p
<
0.001

. Conclusions. Three annual applications of this varnish showed substantial antimicrobial activity against S. mutans and caries prevention for up to 12 months.
An Apriori Algorithm-Based Association Rule Analysis to Identify Acupoint Combinations for Treating Diabetic Gastroparesis
Authors: Lu Ping-Hsun , Keng Jui-Lin , Tsai Fu-Ming , Lu Po-Hsuan , Kuo Chan-Yen
Published: March 2021

We explored the potential association rules within acupoints in treating diabetic gastroparesis (DGP) using Apriori algorithm complemented with another partition-based algorithm, a frequent pattern growth algorithm. Apriori algorithm is a data mining-based analysis that is widely applied in various fields, such as business and medicine, to mine frequent patterns in datasets. To search for effective acupoint combinations in the treatment of DGP, we implemented Apriori algorithm to investigate the association rules of acupoints among 17 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The acupoints were extracted from the 17 included RCTs. In total, 29 distinct acupoints were observed in the RCTs. The top 10 frequently selected acupoints were CV12, ST36, PC6, ST25, BL21, BL20, BL23, SP6, BL18, and ST21. The frequency pattern of acupoints achieved by using a frequent pattern growth algorithm also confirms the result. The results showed that the most associated rules were {BL23, BL18} ≥ {SP6}, {BL20, BL18} ≥ {PC6}, {PC6, BL18} ≥ {BL20}, and {SP6, BL18} ≥ {BL23} in the database. Acupoints, including BL23, BL18, SP6, BL20, and PC6, can be deemed as core elements of acupoint combinations for treating DGP.
The Number of Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Decreased and Door-to-Balloon Time Delayed in COVID-19
Authors: Ma Tianyi , Huang Yuli , Li Wensheng , Zhong Jianghua , Yang Hui , Zhou Yilei , Li Meijun , Zhong Wenhao , Cao Yue , Lu Shijuan , Hu Yunzhao
Published: March 2021

Background. At present, COVID-19 is sweeping the world, and all countries are actively responding. During the COVID-19 epidemic, the treatment of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) may be affected. Methods. We reviewed data of patients with AMI from January 23 to April 23, 2020 (2020), and January 23 to April 23, 2019 (2019), who were admitted to two hospitals from Southern China. We collected clinical characteristics, comorbidities, treatment, prognosis, and key time segments to analyze. Results. The total number of patients that had been diagnosed with AMI in the two hospitals was 218 in 2020 and 260 in 2019. The number of AMI patients that were admitted to hospitals per day decreased in 2020. The percentage of patients with AMI who refused hospitalization in 2020 was significantly higher than that in 2019 (5.0% vs 1.5%,

p
=
0.028

). There is no statistical difference in symptoms of the first medical contact (S2FMC) time between 2020 and 2019 (

p
=
0.552

). Door-to-balloon (D2B) time of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients who were treated with a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) in 2020 was 79 (63.75–105.25) mins, while D2B time in 2019 was 57.5 (41.5–76.5) mins, which was statistically different from the two groups. Conclusions. COVID-19 had an impact on the number of AMI patients who were admitted to hospitals and the time of treatment. During the COVID-19 epidemic, the number of AMI patients that were admitted to hospitals per day was decreased, while the percentage of AMI patients that refused therapy in these two hospitals increased, and the D2B time of STEMI patients was also delayed.
Survey on Reversible Watermarking Techniques of Echocardiography
Authors: Ghafoor Rabiya , Saleem Danish , Jamal Sajjad Shaukat , Ishtiaq M. , Ejaz Sadaf , Jamal Malik Arif , Khan M. Fahad
Published: March 2021

In critical domains such as medical and military, reversible watermarking (RW) has been used. In the medical domain, different modalities are used to store patient information. The current study focuses on the application of RW in echocardiography data. Mostly, RW is applied to protect patient data without affecting the quality of the decoded image. The RW methods are benchmarked as per imperceptibility, robustness, and payload. The survey presents a comparison of state-of-the-art RW techniques. The imperceptibility and payload are balanced through a tradeoff. It has been observed in the literature that most of the RW methods lack robustness, and very small-scale robustness has been achieved in this domain of watermarking. Different types of RW, i.e., fragile, semifragile, and robust methods, are being compared and reviewed. Mostly, fragile methods are developed on the error-expansion techniques built on histogram shifting-based approach. In this study, several RW methods are compared and the results are presented.
Relationship between the Usage of Long-Lasting Insecticide-Treated Bed Nets (LLITNs) and Malaria Prevalence among School-Age Children in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Omonijo Adejumoke Oluwatosin , Omonijo Adetunji , Okoh Hillary Iwegbunem , Ibrahim Azeez Oyemomi
Published: March 2021

Purpose. The usage of LLITNs in malaria vector control has resulted in the reduction in malaria deaths among higher-risk groups (pregnant women and under-fives). However, there exists asymptomatic infection among older children, thereby making them a reservoir of malaria transmission. This study aimed at assessing the impact of LLITN usage on malaria prevalence among school-age children (SAC) in Ekiti, South Western Nigeria. Methods. Cross-sectional, two-stage cluster sampling technique was used to collect data from SAC during May and June 2017. A total of 1313 (Oye LGA: 657 and Ikole LGA: 656) SAC in selected public primary schools participated in the study. Sociodemographic information as well as data on LLITN usage the previous night was obtained using pretested, semistructured questionnaires adapted from the standardized Malaria Indicator Survey (MIS) tools. Malaria infection was diagnosed by using the rapid diagnostic test (RDT) on blood samples that were collected by finger prick from each child. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows software version 26 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results. Usage of LLITNs among SAC was significantly higher in Ikole LGA than in Oyep<0.001. Socioeconomic factors (access to electricity, mother’s occupation, and household size) showed significant associations with LLITN usagep<0.001in both Oye and Ikole LGAs. Malaria prevalence was significantly low among SAC utilizing LLITNs in both Oye and Ikole LGAsp<0.001. There was a significant association between gender and malaria prevalence among SAC with males having higher prevalence than femalesp<0.001. Socioeconomic factors were significantly associated with malaria prevalence in both LGAsp<0.001. Conclusion. The usage of LLITNs caused a significant reduction in malaria prevalence among the school-age children in the study areas; hence, sensitization on usage should be scaled up towards malaria elimination.
Optimizing Road Networks for Automated Vehicles with Dedicated Links, Dedicated Lanes, and Mixed-Traffic Subnetworks
Authors: Madadi Bahman , Van Nes Rob , Snelder Maaike , Van Arem Bart
Published: March 2021

This study focuses on network configurations to accommodate automated vehicles (AVs) on road networks during the transition period to full automation. The literature suggests that dedicated infrastructure for AVs and enhanced infrastructure for mixed traffic (i.e., AVs on the same lanes with conventional vehicles) are the main alternatives so far. We utilize both alternatives and propose a unified mathematical framework for optimizing road networks for AVs by simultaneous deployment of AV-ready subnetworks for mixed traffic, dedicated AV links, and dedicated AV lanes. We model the problem as a bilevel network design problem where the upper level represents road infrastructure adjustment decisions to deploy these concepts and the lower level includes a network equilibrium model representing the flows as a result of the travelers’ response to new network topologies. An efficient heuristic solution method is introduced to solve the formulated problem and find coherent network topologies. Applicability of the model on real road networks is demonstrated using a large-scale case study of the Amsterdam metropolitan region. Our results indicate that for low AV market penetration rates (MPRs), AV-ready subnetworks, which accommodate AVs in mixed traffic, are the most efficient configuration. However, after 30% MPR, dedicated AV lanes prove to be more beneficial. Additionally, road types can dictate the viable deployment plan for certain parts of road networks. These insights can be used to guide planners in developing their strategies regarding road network infrastructure during the transition period to full automation.
Predicting the Healthy Operation of Heavy Oil Well Casings in Permafrost Regions
Authors: Sun Tiecheng , Liu Cancan , Yue Zurun , Hu Tianfei , Liao Yiming
Published: March 2021

This study explores the distribution of stress and deformation on casings in heavy oil recovery wells and the distribution of stress in the thaw bulb in permafrost areas. Considering the expansion of the thaw bulb, the simulation analysis method is used to explore the internal mechanisms of vertical settlement displacement development and stress redistribution within thawed soil and casing. Calculation results show the following: (a) The maximum settlement of the thawed soil and the casing was positively correlated with the expansion of the thaw bulb. Although the settlement of the thawed soil was greater than that of the casing, the initial increase in maximum settlement difference between the thawed soil and the casing eventually tended to be constant due to stabilization of the thaw bulb’s expansion. (b) The size of the thaw bulb directly affects the redistribution of internal stress in thawed soil, leading to different distribution rules for the vertical displacement of thawed soil and casing with depth. (c) Beyond a certain formation depth, the vertical stress of thawed soil gradually transits from a tensile stress state to a compressive stress state. The depth of a soil layer whose horizontal stress value is initially greater than its vertical stress value will gradually deepen with an increase in thaw bulb radius. (d) There is no significant negative friction on the lateral wall of casing in yield state, but significant negative friction exists on the lateral wall of casing in elastic state. The vertical stress of casing in elastic state increased gradually with the increase of casing depth, due to the existence of continuous negative friction and dead weight.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Prevents Cisplatin-Induced Cognitive Impairments
Authors: Yoo Ki Hyun , Tang Jason J. , Rashid Mohammad Abdur , Cho Chang Hoon , Corujo-Ramirez Ana , Choi Jonghoon , Bae Mun Gyeong , Brogren Danielle , Hawse John R. , Hou Xiaonan , Weroha S. John , Oliveros Alfredo , Kirkeby Lindsey A. , Baur Joseph A. , Jang Mi-Hyeon
Published: March 2021

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI) is often reported as a neurotoxic side effect of chemotherapy. Although CICI has emerged as a significant medical problem, meaningful treatments are not currently available due to a lack of mechanistic understanding underlying CICI pathophysiology. Using the platinum-based chemotherapy cisplatin as a model for CICI, we show here that cisplatin suppresses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in the adult female mouse brain in vivo and in human cortical neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells in vitro. Increasing NAD+ levels through nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) administration prevented cisplatin-induced abnormalities in neural progenitor proliferation, neuronal morphogenesis, and cognitive function without affecting tumor growth and antitumor efficacy of cisplatin. Mechanistically, cisplatin inhibited expression of the NAD+ biosynthesis rate-limiting enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (Nampt). Selective restoration of Nampt expression in adult-born neurons was sufficient to prevent cisplatin-induced defects in dendrite morphogenesis and memory function. Taken together, our findings suggest that aberrant Nampt-mediated NAD+ metabolic pathways may be a key contributor in cisplatin-induced neurogenic impairments, thus causally leading to memory dysfunction. Therefore, increasing NAD+ levels could represent a promising and safe therapeutic strategy for cisplatin-related neurotoxicity.

Significance:

Increasing NAD+ through NMN supplementation offers a potential therapeutic strategy to safely prevent cisplatin-induced cognitive impairments, thus providing hope for improved quality of life in cancer survivors.
Effectiveness of a Cancer Risk Prediction Tool on Lifestyle Habits: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yuwaki Keiichi , Kuchiba Aya , Otsuki Aki , Odawara Miyuki , Okuhara Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Hirono , Inoue Manami , Tsugane Shoichiro , Shimazu Taichi
Published: March 2021

Background:

Risk prediction models offer a promising approach to lifestyle modification. We evaluated the effect of personalized advice based on cancer risk prediction in improving five lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol consumption, salt intake, physical activity, and body mass index) compared with standard advice without risk prediction among a Japanese general population with at least one unhealthy lifestyle habit.

Methods:

In a parallel-design, single-blind, randomized controlled trial between February 2018 and July 2019, 5984 participants aged 40–64 years with unhealthy lifestyle habits were recruited from persons covered under a life insurance policy. They were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group and received personalized or standard advice, respectively. They were also sent an invitation to participate in a lifestyle modification program aimed at improving lifestyle. Primary outcome was an improvement in lifestyle, defined as an increase in healthy lifestyle habits within 6 months.

Results:

The proportion of participants who improved their lifestyle within 6 months in the intervention group did not significantly differ from that in the control group (18.4% vs. 17.7%; P = 0.488). Among participants with low health literacy and two or fewer of five healthy habits, the proportion of participants subscribing to the lifestyle modification program was higher in the intervention group than in the control group.

Conclusions:

Compared with standardized advice, personalized advice based on cancer risk prediction had no effect on improving lifestyle.

Impact:

Provision of predicted cancer risk information did not induce change in unhealthy lifestyle.
Cost-Effectiveness of Offering Cervical Cancer Screening with HPV Self-Sampling among African-American Women in the Mississippi Delta
Authors: Campos Nicole G. , Scarinci Isabel C. , Tucker Laura , Peral Sylvia , Li Yufeng , Regan Mary Caroline , Sy Stephen , Castle Philip E. , Kim Jane J.
Published: March 2021

Background:

African-American women in the United States have an elevated risk of cervical cancer incidence and mortality. In the Mississippi Delta, cervical cancer disparities are particularly stark.

Methods:

We conducted a micro-costing study alongside a group randomized trial that evaluated the efficacy of a patient-centered approach (“Choice” between self-collection at home for HPV testing or current standard of care within the public health system in Mississippi) versus the current standard of care [“Standard-of-care screening,” involving cytology (i.e., Pap) and HPV co-testing at the Health Department clinics]. The interventions in both study arms were delivered by community health workers (CHW). Using cost, screening uptake, and colposcopy adherence data from the trial, we informed a mathematical model of HPV infection and cervical carcinogenesis to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing the “Choice” and “Standard-of-care screening” interventions among un/underscreened African-American women in the Mississippi Delta.

Results:

When each intervention was simulated every 5 years from ages 25 to 65 years, the “Standard-of-care screening” strategy reduced cancer risk by 6.4% and was not an efficient strategy; “Choice” was more effective and efficient, reducing lifetime risk of cervical cancer by 14.8% and costing $62,720 per year of life saved (YLS). Screening uptake and colposcopy adherence were key drivers of intervention cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions:

Offering “Choice” to un/underscreened African-American women in the Mississippi Delta led to greater uptake than CHW-facilitated screening at the Health Department, and may be cost-effective.

Impact:

We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of an HPV self-collection intervention to reduce disparities.
Levels of Inflammation Markers Are Associated with the Risk of Recurrence and All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wesselink Evertine , Balvers Michiel G.J. , Kok Dieuwertje E. , Winkels Renate M. , van Zutphen Moniek , Schrauwen Ruud W.M. , Keulen Eric T.P. , Kouwenhoven Ewout A. , Breukink Stephanie O. , Witkamp Renger F. , de Wilt Johannes H.W. , Bours Martijn J.L. , Weijenberg Matty P. , Kampman Ellen , van Duijnhoven Fränzel J.B.
Published: March 2021

Background:

We investigated whether preoperative and postoperative levels of inflammation markers, which have mechanistically been linked to colorectal cancer progression, were associated with recurrence and all-cause mortality in patients with colorectal cancer.

Methods:

Data of two prospective cohort studies were used. For the current analysis, patients with stage I to III colorectal cancer were considered. Data on inflammation [IL6, IL8, IL10, TNFα, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and a combined inflammatory z-score] were available for 747 patients before surgery and for 614 patients after surgery. The associations between inflammation marker levels and colorectal cancer recurrence and all-cause mortality were examined using multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models, considering patient characteristics and clinical and lifestyle factors.

Results:

Higher preoperative and postoperative hsCRP levels were associated with a higher risk of recurrence [HRper doubling (95% CI), 1.15 (1.02–1.30) and 1.34 (1.16–1.55)] and all-cause mortality [HRper doubling (95% CI) 1.13 (1.01–1.28) and 1.15 (0.98–1.35)]. A doubling in IL8 levels (preoperative levels HR = 1.23; 95% CI, 1.00–1.53 and postoperative levels HR = 1.61; 95% CI, 1.23–2.12) and a higher combined inflammatory z-score (preoperative HRper doubling = 1.39; 95% CI, 1.03–1.89 and postoperative HRper doubling = 1.56; 95% CI, 1.06–2.28) were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality, but not recurrence. No associations between IL6, IL10, and TNFα and recurrence or all-cause mortality were observed.

Conclusions:

Preoperative and postoperative levels of specific inflammation markers were associated with recurrence and/or all-cause mortality.

Impact:

The complex role of inflammation in cancer recurrence merits further elucidation by investigating local inflammation at the tumor site.
Fibroblast Activation Protein α-Targeted CD40 Agonism Abrogates Systemic Toxicity and Enables Administration of High Doses to Induce Effective Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Sum Eva , Rapp Moritz , Fröbel Philipp , Le Clech Marine , Dürr Harald , Giusti Anna Maria , Perro Mario , Speziale Dario , Kunz Leo , Menietti Elena , Brünker Peter , Hopfer Ulrike , Lechmann Martin , Sobieniecki Andrzej , Appelt Birte , Adelfio Roberto , Nicolini Valeria , Freimoser-Grundschober Anne , Jordaan Whitney , Labiano Sara , Weber Felix , Emrich Thomas , Christen François , Essig Birgit , Romero Pedro , Trumpfheller Christine , Umaña Pablo
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

CD40 agonists hold great promise for cancer immunotherapy (CIT) as they enhance dendritic cell (DC) activation and concomitant tumor-specific T-cell priming. However, the broad expression of CD40 accounts for sink and side effects, hampering the efficacy of anti-CD40 antibodies. We hypothesized that these limitations can be overcome by selectively targeting CD40 agonism to the tumor. Therefore, we developed a bispecific FAP-CD40 antibody, which induces CD40 stimulation solely in presence of fibroblast activation protein α (FAP), a protease specifically expressed in the tumor stroma.

Experimental Design:

FAP-CD40's in vitro activity and FAP specificity were validated by antigen-presenting cell (APC) activation and T-cell priming assays. In addition, FAP-CD40 was tested in subcutaneous MC38-FAP and KPC-4662-huCEA murine tumor models.

Results:

FAP-CD40 triggered a potent, strictly FAP-dependent CD40 stimulation in vitro. In vivo, FAP-CD40 strongly enhanced T-cell inflammation and growth inhibition of KPC-4662-huCEA tumors. Unlike nontargeted CD40 agonists, FAP-CD40 mediated complete regression of MC38-FAP tumors, entailing long-term protection. A high dose of FAP-CD40 was indispensable for these effects. While nontargeted CD40 agonists induced substantial side effects, highly dosed FAP-CD40 was well tolerated. FAP-CD40 preferentially accumulated in the tumor, inducing predominantly intratumoral immune activation, whereas nontargeted CD40 agonists displayed strong systemic but limited intratumoral effects.

Conclusions:

FAP-CD40 abrogates the systemic toxicity associated with nontargeted CD40 agonists. This enables administration of high doses, essential for overcoming CD40 sink effects and inducing antitumor immunity. Consequently, FAP-targeted CD40 agonism represents a promising strategy to exploit the full potential of CD40 signaling for CIT.
Stroke Angel: Effect of Telemedical Prenotification on In-Hospital Delays and Systemic Thrombolysis in Acute Stroke Patients
Authors: Eder Patrick Andreas , Laux Gunter , Rashid Asarnusch , Kniess Tobias , Haeusler Karl Georg , Shammas Layal , Griewing Bernd , Hofmann Susanne , Stangl Stephanie , Wiedmann Silke , Rücker Viktoria , Heuschmann Peter U. , Soda Hassan ,   Stroke Angel Study Group
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Door-to-CT scan time (DCT) and door-to-needle time (DNT) are important process measures in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients undergoing intravenous thrombolysis (IVT). We examined the impact of a telemedical prenotification by emergency medical service (EMS) (called the “Stroke Angel” program) on DCT and DNT and IVT rate compared to standard of care. Patients and Methods: Two prospective observational studies including AIS patients admitted via EMS from 2011 to 2013 (cohort I; n = 496) and from January 1, 2015 to May 31, 2018 (cohort II; n = 349) were conducted. After cohort I, the 4-Item Stroke Scale and a digital thrombolysis protocol were added. Multivariable logistic and linear regression analysis was performed. Results: In cohort I, DCT was lower in the intervention group (13 vs. 26 min using standard of care; p < 0.001), but no significant difference in median DNT (35 vs. 39 min; p = 0.24) was observed. In cohort II, a reduction of DCT (8 vs. 15 min; p < 0.001) and DNT (25 vs. 29 min p = 0.003) was observed in the intervention group. Compared to standard of care, the likelihood of DCT ≤10 min or DNT ≤20 min in the intervention group was 2.7 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.7; 95% CI: 2.1–3.5) and 1.8 (aOR 1.8; 95% CI: 1.1–2.9), respectively. In cohort II, IVT rate was higher (aOR 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–1.9) in the intervention group. Conclusion: Although the positive effects of Stroke Angel in AIS provided a rationale for implementation in routine care, larger studies of practice implementation will be needed. Using Stroke Angel in the prehospital management of AIS impacts on important process measures of IVT delivery.
A Journey through the Early Evidence Linking Hydration to Metabolic Health
Authors: Vanhaecke Tiphaine , Perrier Erica T. , Melander Olle
Published: March 2021

The idea that water intake or hydration may play an intrinsic, independent role in modulating metabolic disease risk is relatively recent. Here, we outline the journey from early experimental works to more recent evidence linking water and hydration to metabolic health. It has been known for decades that individuals with existing metabolic dysfunction experience challenges to body water balance and have elevated arginine vasopressin (AVP), a key hormone regulating body fluid homeostasis. Later, intervention studies demonstrated that altering fluid balance in these individuals could worsen their condition, suggesting that hydration played a role in modulating glycemic control. More recently, observational and interventional studies in healthy individuals have implicated the hydration-vasopressin axis in the pathophysiology of metabolic diseases. Individuals with higher AVP (or its surrogate, copeptin) are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes and components of the metabolic syndrome, an association that remains even when controlling for known risk factors. Supporting preclinical work also suggests a causal role for AVP in metabolic dysfunction. It is known that individuals who habitually drink less fluids tend to have higher circulating AVP, which may be lowered by increasing water intake. In the short term, water supplementation in habitual low drinkers with high copeptin may reduce fasting glucose or glucagon, generating a proof of concept for the role of water supplementation in reducing incident metabolic disease. A large randomized trial is ongoing to determine whether water supplementation for 1 year in subjects with low water intake can meaningfully reduce fasting glucose, risk of new-onset diabetes, and other cardiometabolic risk factors.
What Is Groundwater? How to Manage and Protect Groundwater Resources
Authors: Lachassagne Patrick
Published: March 2021

Among the water resources on earth, groundwater is a resource hidden in the rocks of the earth’s crust. For various reasons, notably the fact that this water is not directly visible but also as a consequence of education and longstanding traditions, the properties and physical laws governing groundwater are not well known outside the circle of hydrogeologists, the scientists specialists of the survey, management, and protection of groundwater resources. This resource has lots of advantages, notably when compared to surface water, and is thus largely used worldwide for many purposes: agriculture, tap water, industries, bottling, etc. In fact, this resource is available year-long, even during the dry season and in arid countries, and is well protected from surface contaminations. It needs, however, to be appropriately managed and protected to ensure its sustainability (quantity and quality). Thus, this study intends to provide the basics of the groundwater science, “hydrogeology.” It is illustrated by examples taken from the Evian Natural Mineral Water, that is groundwater, and the way it is managed and protected. The groundwater resource is a sustainable water resource belonging to the earth’s water cycle, which flows thanks to the natural energy provided by the sun. The main physical processes of the groundwater water cycle are the infiltration of rainwater into the soil, its slow flow within the pervious rocks from the earth’s crust, called “aquifers,” and finally its natural outflow at springs and into rivers. It can also be reached with man-made wells and pumped. Groundwater contains dissolved minerals that are mostly the results of interactions between the water and the aquifers’ rocks.
The Psychology of Desire and Implications for Healthy Hydration
Authors: Papies Esther Katharina
Published: March 2021

This article discusses the cognitive mechanisms underlying the motivation to consume sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and outlines implications for developing healthy hydration habits. While the detrimental health consequences of consuming SSBs are well understood, the psychological processes underlying the motivation to consume them are understudied. To address this gap, the current article applies a grounded cognition theory of desire and motivated behaviour, which can be used as a framework to understand and potentially change the motivation for SSBs and healthier alternatives, such as water. The grounded cognition theory of desire argues that people represent foods and drinks through potentially rewarding simulations, or re-experiences, of consuming them. These simulations, in turn, can increase desire and motivated behaviour. In line with this theory, research on eating behaviour shows that people think about attractive food in terms of what it feels like to eat it and in terms of relevant eating situations and that these simulations predict the desire to eat. Similarly, emerging research on SSBs shows that people represent these beverages in terms of the sensory and rewarding experiences of drinking them, more so than water, and especially if they consume them often. These simulations, in turn, predict the desire for sugary drinks and actual consumption. This has implications for attempts to increase healthy hydration: in order to facilitate healthy choices, the immediate pleasure to be gained from consuming a healthy beverage should be emphasized, rather than its long-term benefits. Repeatedly facilitating healthy drink choices in similar situations can ultimately contribute to the development of healthy hydration habits.