bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐frequency trading and market quality: Evidence from account‐level futures data
Authors: Coughlan John , Orlov Alexei G.
Published: February 2023

We use rich regulatory data on intraday transactions and end‐of‐day positions to study how high‐frequency traders (HFTs) affect futures market quality. Panel estimation evidence shows that greater participation by HFTs is strongly associated with improvements in market quality (as measured by traded bid–ask spreads and the Amihud price impact), whereas higher rates of aggressive trading, such as those observed when HFTs trade directionally to reduce their positions, produce a partially offsetting effect. We find that while futures contracts are sensitive to market uncertainty (as measured by VIX), they are more sensitive to their own price volatility. We take advantage of the 2015 change in Chicago Mercantile Exchange's daily settlement methodology for agricultural commodities to address potential endogeneity using a fixed‐effects difference‐in‐difference setup. Our results are robust to relying on alternative estimation techniques, using overly conservative (clustered) standard errors, modeling various forms of cross‐sectional and temporal dependence, and studying each market separately.
Late Palaeozoic tectonic evolution of the southern Central Asian Orogenic Belt: Constraints from the Early Permian magmatism in the northern Alxa area
Authors: Deng Wenbing , Shao Zhaogang , Xu Haijing , Chen Xuanhua
Published: February 2023

The northern Alxa area is the southernmost part of the central segment of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt and is located in a crucial junction to unravel the geological evolutionary history of the Palaeo‐Asian Ocean. Here, we present an integrated study of whole‐rock geochemistry, zircon U–Pb geochronology and zircon–Hf isotope on Early Permian igneous rocks from the Zhusileng–Hangwula Belt of the northern Alxa area. Three syenogranites, two monzogranites and one granodiorite are identified as peraluminous, (high‐potassium) calc‐alkaline I‐type granites. The zircon dating results show that they were formed during the Early Permian (291–285 Ma). Geochemically, these rocks show enrichments in light rare‐earth elements (LREEs), large‐ion lithophile elements (LILEs) and negative Nb–Ta anomalies, as well as low A/CNK values. Furthermore, the syenogranites have almost positive zircon εHf(t) values (−0.4 to +4.8) and Early Palaeoproterozoic–Mesoproterozoic Hf model ages (1,768–1,296 Ma), indicating that they were probably derived from juvenile crustal components, mixed with ancient continental crust. The monzogranites have markedly positive zircon εHf(t) values (+11.2 to +13.5) and Neoproterozoic–Cambrian Hf model ages (716–513 Ma), suggesting that they were generated by rapid reworking of newly formed juvenile material. The granodiorite shows positive zircon εHf(t) values (+4.0 to +7.0) and Mesoproterozoic Hf model ages (1,368–1,090 Ma), implying that the granodiorite was probably derived from the partial melting of the juvenile crust. Our geochronological, geochemical and isotopic data, combined with published data, unravel that a crustal thinning event that was simultaneous with more input of mantle materials in the northern Alxa area, implies that a subduction‐related extensional environment occurred in the Zhusileng–Hangwula Belt which is probably due to the slab rollback of the Paleo‐Asian Ocean during the Late Carboniferous–Early Permian.
Environment‐tolerant ionic hydrogel–elastomer hybrids with robust interfaces, high transparence, and biocompatibility for a mechanical–thermal multimode sensor
Authors: Lu Ya , Yue Yiying , Ding Qinqin , Mei Changtong , Xu Xinwu , Jiang Shaohua , He Shuijian , Wu Qinglin , Xiao Huining , Han Jingquan
Published: February 2023

The human skin, an important sensory organ, responds sensitively to external stimuli under various harsh conditions. However, the simultaneous achievement of mechanical/thermal sensitivity and extreme environmental tolerance remains an enormous challenge for skin‐like hydrogel‐based sensors. In this study, a novel skin‐inspired hydrogel–elastomer hybrid with a sandwich structure and strong interfacial bonding for mechanical–thermal multimode sensing applications is developed. An inner‐layered ionic hydrogel with a semi‐interpenetrating network is prepared using sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a nanofiller, lithium chloride (LiCl) as an ionic transport conductor, and polyacrylamide (PAM) as a polymer matrix. The outer‐layered polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomers fully encapsulating the hydrogel endow the hybrids with improved mechanical properties, intrinsic waterproofness, and long‐term water retention (>98%). The silane modification of the hydrogels and elastomers imparts the hybrids with enhanced interfacial bonding strength and integrity. The hybrids exhibit a high transmittance (~91.2%), fatigue resistance, and biocompatibility. The multifunctional sensors assembled from the hybrids realize real‐time temperature (temperature coefficient of resistance, approximately −1.1% °C−1) responsiveness, wide‐range strain sensing capability (gauge factor, ~3.8) over a wide temperature range (from −20°C to 60°C), and underwater information transmission. Notably, the dual‐parameter sensor can recognize the superimposed signals of temperature and strain. The designed prototype sensor arrays can detect the magnitude and spatial distribution of forces and temperatures. The comprehensive performance of the sensor prepared via a facile method is superior to that of most similar sensors previously reported. Finally, this study develops a new material platform for monitoring human health in extreme environments.

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β‐Ionone represses renal cell carcinoma progression through activating LKB1/AMPK‐triggered autophagy
Authors: Hou Tao , Wang Yuzhao , Dan Weichao , Wei Yi , Liu Bo , Que Taotao , Lei Yuzeshi , Yu Bixin , Zeng Jin , Fan Yizeng , Li Lei
Published: February 2023

β‐Ionone, the end ring analog of β‐carotenoids, has been proven to have an antitumor effect in a variety of cancers. In this study, we investigated the impact of β‐ionone on renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines (786‐O and ACHN) using colony formation assays, flow cytometry analysis, and western blot analysis. We found that β‐ionone effectively inhibited the proliferation of RCC cells in vitro, which was also confirmed in a xenograft model. Moreover, we found that β‐ionone could induce autophagy, as indicated by LC3 puncta in 786‐O and ACHN cell lines and the expression of LC3 in β‐ionone‐treated RCC cells. To further explore the underlying mechanism, we assessed liver kinase B1/AMP‐activated protein kinase (LKB1/AMPK) signaling pathway activity, and the results showed that β‐ionone inhibited the proliferation of RCC cells by inducing autophagy via the LKB1/AMPK signaling pathway. In summary, our findings provide a new therapeutic strategy of β‐ionone‐induced autophagy in RCC.
Prenatal patient perceptions of receiving difficult news over the telephone
Authors: Douglas Tinsley Claire , May Caitlyn , Dent Karin , Carey John C. , Mladucky Janessa
Published: February 2023

Difficult news has been described as any news that adversely and seriously affects an individual's view of their future. Research in oncology genetic counseling demonstrated that individuals do not prefer in‐person or telephone delivery of their genetic test results. However, in the prenatal setting, there is limited research examining how patients prefer news related to their pregnancies be disclosed. This study aimed to assess the experiences and preferences of prenatal patients who received difficult news by telephone. A semi‐structured interview guide was developed to assess patients' personal definitions of difficult news and their experiences receiving the news by telephone. Fifteen patients seen prenatally by a genetic counselor were interviewed. Interviews were transcribed and consensus‐coded, using inductive content analysis to identify several themes. The most common definition of difficult news included unexpected, life‐changing, or devastating information. Participants described aspects of their experience and strategies employed by their genetic counselor that was helpful when receiving the news, which was found to align with the SPIKES protocol, a six‐step process of delivering difficult news to patients. Additional techniques that participants identified as beneficial and satisfactory included the genetic counselor's use of empathy, non‐directiveness, and continuity and coordination of care. Participants also provided recommendations for improvement, including a discussion of the mode of result disclosure during pretest counseling, an option to follow up with their genetic counselor, personalized resources, and a summary of the results call. The findings of this study demonstrate that a patient‐centered approach is preferred by patients who receive difficult news by telephone in the prenatal setting. Patients' identification of beneficial communication techniques and suggestions for improvement can be implemented by any healthcare provider responsible for delivering difficult news to prenatal patients.
An examination of Leapfrog safety measures and Magnet designation
Authors: Tai Teresa Wai Chi , Mattie Angela , Miller Stephanie Monteiro , Yawson Robert M.
Published: February 2023

Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades and Magnet designation are two publicly available measures that serve as proxies for health care quality and safety. We examine whether hospitals with a better rating in one Leapfrog safety measure also have favorable ratings in other Leapfrog safety measures and whether Magnet‐designated hospitals have better Leapfrog safety scores related to outcomes, processes, and structures than non‐Magnet hospitals. Our study found that hospital‐associated infections (HAIs) were not strongly correlated with one another, but Leapfrog safety process and structural measures were significantly and strongly correlated with one another, suggesting hospitals that invest in processes/structures to improve quality tend to do so across many dimensions. Also, Magnet‐designated hospitals had higher Leapfrog grades for structural measures but not systematically better infection rates. Only one HAI (central line‐associated bloodstream infections) had lower rates in Magnet hospitals than non‐Magnet hospitals. These analyses suggest that improvements in process and structural measures do not necessarily translate into lower HAIs. Hospitals may need specific quality improvement strategies to target each HAI since HAIs are not strongly correlated with one another. Future research is needed to identify what process and structural measures can decrease HAIs and how this should be reflected in Magnet designation evaluation criteria.
The role of PGM1isoform 2 in PGM1‐CDG: One step closer to genotype–phenotype correlation?
Authors: Radenkovic Silvia , Laerdahl Jon K. , Backe Paul H. , Morava Eva
Published: February 2023

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Placental Area in the Lower Uterine Segment, Cervical Length, and Clinical Outcome in Pregnancies With Complete Placenta Previa
Authors: Zhou Liping , Zhao Xuepiao , Xu Duo , Pang Suhua , Mao Xiuzhen , Feng Shixiang , Yue Yongfei
Published: February 2023

Background

Complete placenta previa is associated with a higher percentage of adverse clinical outcomes and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used in the preoperative examination of patients with placenta previa.

Purpose

To evaluate the effectiveness of the placental area in the lower uterine segment and cervical length in identifying the adverse maternal–fetal outcomes in women with complete placenta previa.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 141 pregnant women (median age, 32; age range, 24–40 years) with complete placenta previa were examined by MRI to evaluate the uteroplacental condition.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3 T with T1‐weighted imaging (T1WI), T2‐weighted imaging (T2WI), and half‐Fourier acquisition single‐shot turbo spin echo (HASTE) sequence.

Assessment

The association of the placental area in the lower uterine segment and cervical length measured using MRI with the risk of massive intraoperative hemorrhage (MIH) and maternal–fetal perinatal outcomes were determined. The adverse neonatal outcomes (preterm delivery, respiratory distress syndrome [RDS], admission to neonatal intensive care unit [NICU]) were analyzed in different groups.

Statistical Tests

The t‐test, Mann‐Whitney U test, Chi‐square, Fisher's exact test, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used, and a P < 0.05 indicated a statistically significant difference.

Results

The mean operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and intraoperative blood transfusing were significantly higher in patients with large placental area and short cervix than in patients with the small placental area and long cervix, respectively. The incidence of adverse neonatal outcomes was significantly higher in the large placenta area group and short cervix group than in the small placenta group area and long cervix group, respectively, such as preterm delivery, RDS, and NICU. By combining placental area with cervical length sensitivity and specificity increased to 93% and 92%, respectively, for the identification of MIH > 2000 mL with area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) 0.941.

Data Conclusion

Large placental area and short cervical length may be associated with a high risk of MIH and adverse maternal–fetal perinatal outcomes in patients with complete placenta previa.

Level of Evidence

3.

Technical Efficacy Stage

2.
Detailed investigation of the lesion formation with a novel contact force sensing catheter with a mesh‐shaped irrigation tip
Authors: Matsumoto Kazuhisa , Kawano Daisuke , Sasaki Wataru , Tanaka Naomichi , Narita Masataka , Mori Hitoshi , Tsutsui Kenta , Ikeda Yoshifumi , Arai Takahide , Nakano Shintaro , Kato Ritsushi , Matsumoto Kazuo
Published: February 2023

Background

Recently, a novel contact force (CF) sensing catheter with mesh‐shaped irrigation tip (TactiFlex SE, Abbott) was invented and is expected to be useful for safe and effective radiofrequency ablation. However, this catheter's detailed characteristics of the lesion formation are unknown.

Methods

With an in vitro model, TactiFlex SE and its predecessor, FlexAbility SE, were used. A cross‐sectional analysis of 60 s lesions (combination of various energy power settings [30, 40, and 50 W], and CFs [10, 30, and 50 g]) and longitudinal analysis (combination of various powers [40 or 50 W], CFs [10, 30, and 50 g] and ablation times [10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 s]) of both catheters were analyzed and compared.

Results

One hundred eighty RF lesions were created in protocol 1 and 300 in protocol 2. The lesion formation, impedance changes, and steam pops characteristics were similar between the two catheters. Higher CFs were related to higher incidences of steam pops. A nonlinear, time‐dependent increase in the lesion depth and diameter was observed for all power and CF settings, and linear, positive correlations between the RF delivery time and lesion volume were observed for all power settings. Compared with 40 W, a 50 W ablation created greater lesions. Longer durations with higher CF settings had a higher steam pop incidence.

Conclusions

The lesion formation and incidence of steam pops with TactiFlex SE and FlexAbility SE were similar. A 40 or 50 W ablation with careful CF control not to exceed 30 g in addition to monitoring impedance drops was required to safely create transmural lesions.
Developing guidance for feeding tube administration of oral medications
Authors: Klang Mark G.
Published: February 2023

Background

Drug administration through feeding tubes presents many challenges to the healthcare provider. There is little information available on medications than can be delivered safely when crushed and what efforts can be implemented to minimize clogging the feeding tube. Our institution requested a comprehensive examination of all oral medications for the feeding tube route.

Methods

This report is a synopsis of the physical evaluation of 323 different oral medications for their appropriateness for feeding tube administration with distal site in either the stomach or jejunum. A worksheet was created for each medication. This document contained a review of the chemical and physical properties that would contribute to delivery of the medication. Each medication was then studied for the degree of disintegration, pH, osmolality, and potential to form clogs. For drugs that needed to be crushed, the volume of water needed to dissolve the drug, time for that process, and volume needed to rinse the tube after administration was also studied.

Results

The results of this review are summarized in a table and based on a composite of the documents cited, tests conducted, and author's judgements based all the data collected. Thirty‐six medications were identified as inappropriate for feeding tube administration, and an additional 46 medications were identified as inappropriate for direct jejunal administration.

Conclusion

The information produced by this study will enable clinicians to make informed choices in selecting, compounding, and rinsing medications through feeding tubes. Using the template provided, they will be able to evaluate a drug not studied here for potential issues in feeding tube administration.
Quantitative and qualitative analysis of Artemisiae Verlotori Folium and Artemisiae Argyi Folium by high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Deng Jing , Ye Lifang , Xu Guanghao , Ma Zhiguo , Cao Hui , Zhang Ying , Wu Menghua
Published: February 2023

Artemisiae Argyi Folium (Aiye in Chinese) has been widely used since ancient times. In the Lingnan region (Southern China), the leaf of Artemisia verlotorum Lamotte, which is named Hongjiaoai (HJA) because the roots are red (Hongjiao means red foot in Chinese), has been used as a local substitute for Artemisiae Argyi Folium. The plant has a long medicinal and edible history that can be traced to the Jin Dynasty. However, there is no systematic and reliable method to control the quality of Artemisiae Verlotori Folium. In this study, a comprehensive method involving high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight high‐definition mass spectrometry was established to identify and quantify eight constituents (including organic acids and flavonoids) in Artemisiae Verlotori Folium and Artemisiae Argyi Folium as well as high‐performance liquid chromatography fingerprints of the two varieties. Moreover, dissimilarities of chemical compositions among the two varieties were further investigated by orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis and cluster analysis. This research not only explored the similarities and differences between Artemisiae Verlotori Folium and Artemisiae Argyi Folium in eight components but also provided a qualitative and quantitative analytical method that quickly, accurately, and comprehensively assesses the quality of Artemisiae Verlotori Folium.
Comparison of the underlay and over‐underlay tympanoplasty: A randomized, double‐blind controlled trial
Authors: Shishegar Mahmoud , Faramarzi Mohammad , Biniaz Dorna , Rabiei Nikta , Babaei Amirhossein
Published: February 2023

Objective

We aimed to compare the graft success rate and hearing outcomes in patients with large tympanic membrane (TM) perforation in underlay and over‐underlay approaches.

Methods

This is a prospective double‐blind randomized controlled clinical trial with a parallel design. Patients aged 15–75 years old with large TM perforation (more than 50% of TM) who operated at Khalili hospital affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Science, Iran, were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were recent otorrhea, revision surgery, and pathologic intraoperative findings such as the presence of cholesteatoma, cholesterol granuloma, ear canal polyp, or damaged ossicle. In the first group, the underlay method and in the second group over‐underlay method were performed. Graft success rate, atelectasis, and audiology outcomes were evaluated after 6 months.

Results

The investigation was conducted on 84 patients in the underlay and 67 patients in the over‐underlay group. Although there was a higher rate of graft failure (9%) in the over‐underlay group in comparison with the underlay group (4.8%), the difference was not statistically significant (p‐value = .34). No atelectasis was seen in both group. Although, between‐groups comparison of the preoperative and postoperative speech reception thresholds (SRT) and air‐bone gaps (ABG) values showed statistically significantly lower SRT and ABG in the over‐underlay technique, the difference was clinically negligible.

Conclusion

Both techniques provide the same graft success rate, but SRT and ABG were significantly lower in the over‐underlay technique after the operation.

Levels of Evidence

1b
Contrasting impacts of warming and browning on periphyton
Authors: Puts Isolde Callisto , Ask Jenny , Myrstener Maria , Bergström Ann‐Kristin
Published: February 2023

We tested interactive effects of warming (+2°C) and browning on periphyton accrual and pigment composition when grown on a synthetic substrate (plastic strips) in the euphotic zone of 16 experimental ponds. We found that increased colored dissolved organic matter (cDOM) and associated nutrients alone, or in combination with warming, resulted in a substantially enhanced biomass accrual of periphyton, and a comparatively smaller increase in phytoplankton. This illustrates that periphyton is capable of using nutrients associated with cDOM, and by this may affect nutrient availability for phytoplankton. However, warming weakened the positive impact of browning on periphyton accrual, possibly by thermal compensation inferred from altered pigment composition, and/or changes in community composition. Our results illustrate multiple impacts of climate change on algal growth, which could have implications for productivity and consumer resource use, especially in shallow areas in northern lakes.
Effect of thermal spray coating cermets on superalloy to combat hot corrosion
Authors: Mysore Sadashiva Vinod Kumar , Ramappa Suresh , Natarajan Jagadeeswaran , Nisana Siddegowda Prema , Naik Prem Kumar , Puttaswamy Madhusudan
Published: February 2023

Burning coal emits contaminant gases that come into contact with turbine parts and speed up hot corrosion. To overcome the corrosion effect, it is necessary to opt for thermal spray coatings that offer resistance to hot corrosion. In the current study, hot corrosion investigations were done on both uncoated and high‐velocity oxygen fuel spray‐coated Superco‐650 alloys at 700°C for 50 cycles, in Na2SO4 + 60% V2O5 salt environment. At the end of each cycle, the weight gains or loss was recorded. We used powder X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) to examine the hot corrosion impact. Our finding demonstrated that the uncoated Superco‐605 alloy was subjected to extensive spallation in the form of oxide scale remgoval due to the formation of an unprotected Fe2O3 oxide phase. Contrarily the coated Superco‐605 alloy gained less weight, and the oxide scales remained undamaged. The nickel, chromium oxides, and their sulfide phases were revealed by the EDS examination of the oxide scale over the coated sample, which is presumed to offer resistance to high‐temperature corrosion effects.
Applying state‐of‐the‐art microscopy techniques to understand the degradation of copper for nuclear waste canisters
Authors: Persaud Suraj. Y. , Binns Wilfred J. , Guo Mengnan , Williams Desmond , Dong Qingshan , Arcuri Gabriel A. , Daub Kevin , Newman Roger C. , Daymond Mark R. , Keech Peter G.
Published: February 2023

The metallurgy, mechanical properties, and corrosion of Cu, proposed as the corrosion barrier for Canadian used fuel containers (UFCs) for use in a deep geological repository (DGR), have been studied for decades. Bulk properties have been reported, and the knowledge applied to strengthen the performance of Cu produced by electrodeposition and cold spray. Despite this success, many degradation mechanisms are unclear from bulk testing, which cannot capture nanoscale phenomena driving degradation. This study provides examples using state‐of‐the‐art microscopy to understand mechanisms of Cu degradation, specifically for UFCs. Subtle changes in the electrodeposited Cu microstructure due to oxygen segregation are observed using atom probe tomography (APT). In aggressive sulfide‐containing environments, corrosion of the cold‐sprayed Cu occurs along particle–particle interfaces, likely inherent to the manufacturing process. Microscale tensile testing at particle–particle interfaces confirms brittle cracking in the cold‐sprayed Cu. Although experiments are not consistent with DGR conditions, results do warrant further study on the performance of the cold‐sprayed Cu in particular.
Geometric mean of probability measures and geodesics of Fisher information metric
Authors: Itoh Mitsuhiro , Satoh Hiroyasu
Published: February 2023

The space of all probability measures having positive density function on a connected compact smooth manifold M, denoted by , carries the Fisher information metric G. We define the geometric mean of probability measures by the aid of which we investigate information geometry of , equipped with G. We show that a geodesic segment joining arbitrary probability measures μ1 and μ2 is expressed by using the normalized geometric mean of its endpoints. As an application, we show that any two points of can be joined by a unique geodesic. Moreover, we prove that the function ℓ defined by , , , gives the Riemannian distance function on . It is shown that geodesics are all minimal.
Fish Assemblages in the Penobscot River: A Decade after Dam Removal
Authors: Whittum Kory A. , Zydlewski Joseph D. , Coghlan Stephen M. , Hayes Daniel B. , Watson Jonathan , Kiraly Ian
Published: February 2023

The Penobscot River Restoration Project in Maine was a large river rehabilitation project that culminated in the removal of the two lowermost dams and improvements to fish passage on several remaining dams. Fish assemblages were surveyed for 3 years prior to rehabilitation, 3 years after rehabilitation, and 8 years after rehabilitation. Approximately 475 km of shoreline were sampled via boat electrofishing, yielding 133,394 individual fish of 41 species. The greatest shifts in assemblage structure occurred immediately after dam removal in formerly impounded sections, with an increased prevalence of riverine and migratory species. Long-term sampling documented changes within tributaries and tidally influenced river segments, where large schools of adult and young-of-the-year alosines increased in abundance. Upstream of the lowermost dam, the river remains dominated by lacustrine species, while adult anadromous fishes continue to be most abundant immediately downstream of the lowermost dam. Our results provide increased evidence that dam removals result in altered fish assemblages, which are now dominated by riverine and anadromous species in previously impounded habitats. Alosines in the Penobscot River have exhibited the greatest long-term response to river restoration efforts.
Association between venous thromboembolism rates and different prophylactic anticoagulation regimens in patients undergoing free flap reconstruction of the head and neck region
Authors: Saadoun Rakan , Bengur Fuat Baris , Moroni Elizabeth A. , Surucu Yusuf , Veit Johannes A. , Sadick Haneen , Smith Roy E. , Kubik Mark , Sridharan Shaum , Solari Mario G.
Published: February 2023

Background

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious complication after free tissue transfer to the head and neck (H&N). However, an optimal antithrombotic prophylaxis protocol is not defined in the literature. Enoxaparin 30 mg twice daily (BID) and heparin 5000 IU three times daily (TID) are among the most commonly used regimens for chemoprophylaxis. However, no studies compare these two agents in the H&N population.

Methods

A cohort study of patients who underwent free tissue transfer to H&N from 2012 to 2021 and received either enoxaparin 30 mg BID or Heparin 5000 IU TID postoperatively. Postoperative VTE and hematoma events were recorded within 30 days of index surgery. The cohort was divided into two groups based on chemoprophylaxis. VTE and hematoma rates were compared between the groups.

Results

Out of 895 patients, 737 met the inclusion criteria. The mean age and Caprini score were 60.6 [SD 12.5] years and 6.5 [SD 1.7], respectively. 234 [31.88%] were female. VTE and hematoma rates among all patients were 4.47% and 5.56%, respectively. The mean Caprini score between the enoxaparin (n = 664) and heparin (n = 73) groups was not statistically significant (6.5 ± 1.7 vs.6.3 ± 1.3, p = 0.457). The VTE rate in the enoxaparin group was significantly lower than in the heparin group (3.9% vs. 9.6%; OR: 2.602, 95% CI: 1.087–6.225). Hematoma rates were similar between the two groups (5.5% vs. 5.6%; OR: 0.982, 95% CI: 0.339–2.838).

Conclusions

Enoxaparin 30 mg BID was associated with a lower VTE rate while maintaining a similar hematoma rate compared to heparin 5000 units TID. This association may support the use of enoxaparin over heparin for VTE chemoprophylaxis in H&N reconstruction.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Anthocyanins after Administration of Tart Cherry Juice to Individuals with Gout
Authors: Brunetti Luigi , Wang Lujing , Wassef Andrew , Gong Yongjia , Brinker Anita , Buckley Brian , Lipsky Peter E. , Ondar Patricia , Poiani George , Zhao Liping , Kong Ah‐Ng , Schlesinger Naomi
Published: February 2023

Scope

Tart cherries (TCs) contain high levels of anthocyanins that exert potent antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects and potentially benefit individuals with gout.

Methods and results

This study aims to quantitate the major anthocyanins in TC Juice Concentrate (TCJC) and identify the pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters of the major anthocyanin cyanidin‐3‐glucosylrutinoside (C3GR). A PK‐PD study enrolling human subjects with a history of gout is performed. Subjects are randomized to receive either 60 or 120 mL of TCJC. Anthocyanins are quantitated using liquid chromatography‐mass spectroscopy (LCMS). Antioxidant and antiinflammatory mRNA expression is measured using real‐time qPCR before and after the administration of TCJC. A population PK model (popPK) is fit to the experimental data, and an indirect PD model (IDR) is constructed in Monolix.

Conclusion

Of the bioavailable anthocyanins, C3GR achieves the highest plasma concentration in a dose‐dependent manner. A popPK predicts anthocyanin exposure, and an IDR produces reasonable approximations of PD effects.
Scatter correction of 4D cone beam computed tomography to detect dosimetric effects due to anatomical changes in proton therapy for lung cancer
Authors: Schmitz Henning , Rabe Moritz , Janssens Guillaume , Rit Simon , Parodi Katia , Belka Claus , Kamp Florian , Landry Guillaume , Kurz Christopher
Published: February 2023

Background

The treatment of moving tumor entities is expected to have superior clinical outcomes, using image‐guided adaptive intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT).

Purpose

For 21 lung cancer patients, IMPT dose calculations were performed on scatter‐corrected 4D cone beam CTs (4DCBCTcor) to evaluate their potential for triggering treatment adaptation. Additional dose calculations were performed on corresponding planning 4DCTs and day‐of‐treatment 4D virtual CTs (4DvCTs).

Methods

A 4DCBCT correction workflow, previously validated on a phantom, generates 4DvCT (CT‐to‐CBCT deformable registration) and 4DCBCTcor images (projection‐based correction using 4DvCT as a prior) with 10 phase bins, using day‐of‐treatment free‐breathing CBCT projections and planning 4DCT images as input. Using a research planning system, robust IMPT plans administering eight fractions of 7.5 Gy were created on a free‐breathing planning CT (pCT) contoured by a physician. The internal target volume (ITV) was overridden with muscle tissue. Robustness settings for range and setup uncertainties were 3% and 6 mm, and a Monte Carlo dose engine was used. On every phase of planning 4DCT, day‐of‐treatment 4DvCT, and 4DCBCTcor, the dose was recalculated. For evaluation, image analysis as well as dose analysis were performed using mean error (ME) and mean absolute error (MAE) analysis, dose–volume histogram (DVH) parameters, and 2%/2‐mm gamma pass rate analysis. Action levels (1.6% ITV D98 and 90% gamma pass rate) based on our previous phantom validation study were set to determine which patients had a loss of dosimetric coverage.

Results

Quality enhancements of 4DvCT and 4DCBCTcor over 4DCBCT were observed. ITV D98% and bronchi D2% had its largest agreement for 4DCBCTcor–4DvCT, and the largest gamma pass rates (>94%, median 98%) were found for 4DCBCTcor–4DvCT. Deviations were larger and gamma pass rates were smaller for 4DvCT–4DCT and 4DCBCTcor–4DCT. For five patients, deviations were larger than the action levels, suggesting substantial anatomical changes between pCT and CBCT projections acquisition.

Conclusions

This retrospective study shows the feasibility of daily proton dose calculation on 4DCBCTcor for lung tumor patients. The applied method is of clinical interest as it generates up‐to‐date in‐room images, accounting for breathing motion and anatomical changes. This information could be used to trigger replanning.
Incorporating handgrip strength examination into dietetic practice: A quality improvement project
Authors: Sandhu Rebekah , Lee Tao‐en (Henry)
Published: February 2023

Protein‐energy malnutrition is both prevalent and costly within the inpatient rehabilitation population. Registered dietitians play a key role in identifying, diagnosing, and treating protein‐energy malnutrition. Handgrip strength has been shown to correlate with clinical outcomes, including malnutrition. Reduced handgrip strength is included as a criterion in national and international consensus guidelines of malnutrition diagnoses for functional changes. However, limited research and quality improvement projects have reported on its actual use in the clinical setting. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to (1) implement handgrip strength testing into dietitian care on three inpatient rehabilitation units to allow dietitians to identify and treat nutrition‐related muscle function losses and (2) evaluate the feasibility, clinical utility, and clinical impact of this project. This quality improvement educational intervention demonstrated that handgrip strength is feasible, does not impact dietitian efficiency, and is clinically useful. Dietitians reported three areas in which handgrip strength provided value: assessing nutrition status, motivating patients, and monitoring responses to nutrition interventions. Specifically, they were able to shift away from focusing solely on change in weight to focusing on functional ability and strength. Although outcome measures demonstrated favorable outcomes, the results must be interpreted cautiously because of the small sample and pre‐post uncontrolled design. Further high‐quality research is required to provide more in‐depth information on the utility and limitations of handgrip strength as an assessment, motivational, and monitoring tool for clinical dietetics.
Jitteriness/anxiety syndrome caused by coadministration of celecoxib, a selective COX‐2 inhibitor, with escitalopram and trazodone in a patient with depression and spondylolisthesis
Authors: Shirata Toshinori , Yano Shinji , Noto Keisuke , Kanno Muneaki , Suzuki Akihito
Published: February 2023

Antidepressant‐induced jitteriness/anxiety syndrome is characterized as anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia, and (hypo)mania, which appear immediately after initiation or increased dosage of an antidepressant. This report describes a case of the jitteriness/anxiety syndrome caused by the coadministration of celecoxib with escitalopram and trazodone in a patient with depression and spondylolisthesis. The depression of a patient, a woman in her 60 s, had been in remission at least for 5 years under treatment using escitalopram and trazodone. Immediately after coadministration of celecoxib because of her buttock and limb pain, she showed anxiety, agitation, akathisia, insomnia, irritability, aggressiveness, impulsivity, and hypomania. These symptoms disappeared after the discontinuation of celecoxib. The present case suggests that coadministration of celecoxib with escitalopram and trazodone can cause the jitteriness/anxiety syndrome, presumably via a pharmacokinetic interaction of celecoxib with these antidepressants and/or the effects of celecoxib on serotonergic neurotransmission.
Solvent‐induced proteome profiling for proteomic quantitation and target discovery of small molecular drugs
Authors: Yu Chengli , Chen Xiuzhen , Xu Weiwei , Li Simin , Chai Qian , Zhang Yinan
Published: February 2023

Target identification by modification‐free proteomic approaches can potentially reveal the pharmacological mechanism of small molecular compounds. By combining the recent solvent‐induced protein precipitation (SIP) method with TMT‐labeling quantitative proteomics, we propose solvent‐induced proteome profiling (SIPP) approach to identify small molecule–protein interactions. The SIPP approach enables to depict denaturation curves of the target protein by varying concentrations of organic solvents to induce unfolding and precipitation of the cellular proteome. By using this approach, we have successfully identified the known targets of market drugs and natural products and extended the proteome information of SIP for target identification.
Analytical validation of a multi‐protein, serum‐based assay for disease activity assessments in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Qureshi Ferhan , Hu Wayne , Loh Louisa , Patel Hemali , DeGuzman Maria , Becich Michael , Rubio da Costa Fatima , Gehman Victor , Zhang Fujun , Foley John , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To characterize and analytically validate the MSDA Test, a multi‐protein, serum‐based biomarker assay developed using Olink® PEA methodology.

Experimental design

Two lots of the MSDA Test panel were manufactured and subjected to a comprehensive analytical characterization and validation protocol to detect biomarkers present in the serum of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Biomarker concentrations were incorporated into a final algorithm used for calculating four Disease Pathway scores (Immunomodulation, Neuroinflammation, Myelin Biology, and Neuroaxonal Integrity) and an overall Disease Activity score.

Results

Analytical characterization demonstrated that the multi‐protein panel satisfied the criteria necessary for a fit‐for‐purpose validation considering the assay's intended clinical use. This panel met acceptability criteria for 18 biomarkers included in the final algorithm out of 21 biomarkers evaluated. VCAN was omitted based on factors outside of analytical validation; COL4A1 and GH were excluded based on imprecision and diurnal variability, respectively. Performance of the four Disease Pathway and overall Disease Activity scores met the established acceptability criteria.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Analytical validation of this multi‐protein, serum‐based assay is the first step in establishing its potential utility as a quantitative, minimally invasive, and scalable biomarker panel to enhance the standard of care for patients with MS.
Consensus of linear network systems diffusively coupled with exogenous disturbances: An ℋ∞ approach
Authors: John Younghun , Oh Kwang‐Kyo , Moore Kevin L. , Ahn Hyo‐Sung
Published: February 2023

This paper addresses the consensus control problem in multi‐agent systems under the influence of diffusively coupled disturbances. Two different types of systems are considered regarding the homogeneity of the disturbance coupling parameters. The main goal is to derive conditions that guarantee the prescribed performance of the designed control system on disturbance attenuation. To estimate the disturbance attenuation performance of the controller, the norm of the transfer function from the redefined disturbance vector to the disagreement vector is measured. Then the sufficient conditions for the system to achieve consensus within the desired performance are derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMI). Numerical examples of both one‐ and multi‐dimensional consensus control systems are provided to check the validity of the derived LMI feasibility test along with the illustration of consensus behavior in time domain.
Mars powered descent phase guidance law based on reinforcement learning for collision avoidance
Authors: Zhang Yao , Zeng Tianyi , Guo Yanning , Ma Guangfu
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes a reinforcement learning‐based guidance law for Mars powered descent phase, which is an effective online calculation method that handles the nonlinearity caused by the mass variation and avoids collisions. The reinforcement learning method is designed to solve the constrained nonlinear optimization problem by using a critic neural network. Specifically, to cope with the position constraint (i.e., glide‐slope constraint) and the thrust force limit constraint, a modified cost function is proposed, and the associated Hamilton‐Jacobi‐Bellman equation is solved online without using an actor neural network, which significantly reduces the computational burden. The convergence of the critic neural network is proven. Simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Eastern red cedar effects on carbon sequestration and soil quality in the Great Plains
Authors: Sauer Thomas J. , Wacha Ken M. , Brevik Eric C. , Zamora Diomy
Published: February 2023

Eastern red cedar (ERC, Juniperus virginiana L.) is a common tree species in agroforestry plantings and has great potential for bioenergy production due to physical and chemical characteristics of its biomass. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of ERC plantings on carbon (C) sequestration and selected soil quality parameters in existing plantings across the northern U.S. Great Plains. Nine locations were selected in five states with mean annual precipitation (MAP) from 446 to 999 mm and mean annual temperature (MAT) from 4.4 to 10.0°C. Infiltration was measured using the twin ring technique at nine sites in each tree planting and adjacent field (crop, pasture, or hay) at each location. Following infiltration measurements, a 4.8 cm‐diameter soil core to 30 cm depth was collected from inside one infiltration ring of each pair for bulk density, pH, aggregate stability, soil organic carbon (SOC), and total nitrogen (TN) analyses. Penetration resistance in 2.5 cm increments to 30 cm depth was measured in the other infiltration ring. SOC stocks under ERC were significantly higher than in the adjacent field soil at five of the locations and, for all locations, averaged 16.8% greater than in the adjacent field. The estimated SOC accumulation rate for the eight locations with uniform tree stand age averaged 0.30 Mg C ha−1 year−1. Most locations had higher TN and C/N and lower bulk density beneath ERC. Fewer differences for infiltration and penetration resistance and smaller and less consistent differences for pH and aggregate stability were observed. Tree aboveground C stocks were estimated to increase an average of 2.05 Mg C ha−1 year−1. Estimated tree aboveground biomass C and SOC stocks under ERC and in adjacent fields were strongly correlated with MAP. Potential ERC planting for C sequestration or bioenergy feedstock production is not likely to significantly degrade soil quality and may improve soil physical or chemical quality for locations in the US Great Plains.
Mapping spatial distribution of comm‐satellite's beam based on ground omni‐antennas
Authors: Ren Zixuan , Jin Jin , Li Wei , Zhan Yafeng
Published: February 2023

The current satellite communications (SatComs) systems are composed of a large number of satellites, beams and terrestrial devices. Due to their multinode dynamic nature, the usage of frequency resources is variable, complex and difficult to characterize. In particular, with the development of satellite‐borne phased array antenna technology, SatCom beams carrying different frequencies are directionally and dynamically distributed in global scale. Mapping and locating the spatial beam distributions of communication satellite (comm‐satellite) are the bases of intersystem cofrequency interference mitigation and spatial frequency reuse. In this paper, we design a data selection–multiparameter fitting iteration (DS‐MFI) algorithm on the basis of ground‐based omnidirectional antennas. The proposed approach can effectively map the spatial distribution of comm‐satellite's beam, including satellite transmitter position, equal‐gain off‐axis angle, and beam pointing in azimuth and elevation. Simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach for satellites with fixed or steerable beams at different altitudes. Furthermore, the results become increasingly accurate as the dense of ground omni‐antenna increases.
Self‐Sacrificing Template Synthesis of Carbon Nanosheets Assembled Hollow Spheres with Abundant Active Fe–N4O1 Moieties for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Ma Fei‐Xiang , Liu Zheng‐Qi , Zhang Guobin , Fan Hong‐Shuang , Du Yue , Zhen Liang , Xu Cheng‐Yan
Published: February 2023

Single‐atom Fe–N–C (Fe1–N–C) materials represent the benchmarked electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). However, single Fe atoms in the carbon skeletons cannot be fully utilized due to the mass transfer limitation, severely restricting their intrinsic ORR properties. Herein, a self‐sacrificing template strategy is developed to fabricate ultrathin nanosheets assembled Fe1–N–C hollow microspheres (denoted as Fe1/N‐HCMs) by rational carbonization of Fe3+ chelating polydopamine coated melamine cyanuric acid complex. The shell of Fe1/N‐HCMs is constructed by ultrathin nanosheets with thickness of only 2 nm, which is supposed to be an ideal platform to isolate and fully expose single metal atoms. Benefiting from unique hierarchical hollow architecture with highly open porous structure, 2 nm‐thick ultrathin nanosheet subunits and abundant Fe–N4O1 active sites revealed by X‐ray absorption fine structure analysis, the Fe1/N‐HCMs exhibit high ORR performance with a positive half‐wave potential of 0.88 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode and robust stability. When served as air‐cathode catalysts with ultralow loading mass of 0.25 mg cm−2, Fe1/N‐HCMs based Zn–air batteries present a maximum power density of 187 mW cm−2 and discharge specific capacity of 806 mA h gZn−1 in primary Zn–air batteries, all exceeding those of commercial Pt/C.