bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inpatient Sinus Surgery Patient Morbidity and Outcomes: A National Analysis
Authors: Tseng Christopher C. , Gao Jeff , Barinsky Gregory L. , Grube Jordon G. , Fang Christina H. , Eloy Jean A. , Hsueh Wayne D.
Published: September 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

To investigate the morbidity and mortality of patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) in the inpatient setting.

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was queried for all ESS between 2008 and 2014. Using All Patients Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (APR‐DRG) codes, cases with APR‐DRG codes under Major Diagnostic Category 3 (Diseases and Disorders of the Ear, Nose, Mouth, and Throat) were designated as patients with primary otolaryngology diagnoses undergoing ESS (ORL), and all other codes were designated as patients with non‐otolaryngology pathologies as their primary reason for admission but undergoing ESS (non‐ORL). A univariate analysis and a logistic regression were used to compare patient demographics, comorbidities, disease severity, and mortality.

Results

There were 8,305 ORL patients and 6,342 non‐ORL patients. ORL patients were more likely to be elective admissions (61.3% vs. 48.5%, P < .001), have a deviated nasal septum (17.9% vs. 12.3%, P < .001), nasal polyps (15.8% vs. 5.0%, P < .001), obstructive sleep apnea (10.7% vs. 5.2%, P < .001), and pulmonary disease (15.9% vs. 10.5%, P < .001). Non‐ORL patients had a higher likelihood of in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 6.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.29–11.78, P < .001), length of stay in the highest quartile (OR 2.43, 95% CI 2.16–2.74, P < .001), and a higher proportion had APR‐DRG subclasses indicating extreme severity of illness (19.3% vs. 4.3%, P < .001) or extreme risk of mortality (12.5% vs. 2.0%, P < .001).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing ESS in the inpatient setting have a higher than expected mortality rate which can be associated with a non‐otolaryngology pathology as the primary reason for their admission.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:1523–1529, 2022
A global meta‐analysis of the impacts of no‐tillage on soil aggregation and aggregate‐associated organic carbon
Authors: Liu Xiaotong , Wu Xueping , Liang Guopeng , Zheng Fengjun , Zhang Mengni , Li Shengping
Published: September 2021

No‐tillage (NT) has been shown to control soil degradation by impacting soil aggregates (i.e., basic units of soil structure, whose characteristics mediate key soil processes, like carbon sequestration). However, there has been no systematic analysis of the impacts of NT on soil aggregation and aggregate‐associated soil organic carbon (SOC) at global level. We conducted a global meta‐analysis of 89 publications to elucidate the changes in soil aggregation and aggregate‐associated SOC under NT. Notably, we quantified the roles of diverse environmental and agronomic factors (e.g., climatic conditions, experimental duration, cropping intensity, soil texture, and initial SOC/pH) in the changes in those variables. Relative to conventional tillage (CT), NT significantly increased the proportions of water‐stable large (LM) and small (SM) macro‐aggregates and the mean weight diameter (MWD) (by 49%, 11%, and 23%, respectively) but decreased the proportions of micro‐aggregates (MIC) and silt plus clay‐size particles (SC) (by 11% and 16%, respectively). NT significantly enhanced SOC concentrations in LM (17%), SM (14%), MIC (10%), and SC (7%) compared to CT. Furthermore, the random forest (RF) model demonstrated that climatic conditions, experimental duration, and soil texture were the predominant factors controlling the changes in aggregation and aggregate‐associated SOC under NT. Overall, our results indicate that NT is an effective strategy to enhance soil aggregation and aggregate‐associated SOC, yet variations in responses are determined by specific environmental/agronomic factors. This study provided a basis for identifying site‐specific NT practice that could help improve soil structure and SOC sequestration, ultimately controlling soil degradation in croplands.
Dispersal, location of bloom initiation, and nutrient conditions determine the dominance of the harmful dinoflagellateAlexandrium catenella: A meta‐ecosystem study
Authors: Purz Anneke Kristin , Hodapp Dorothee , Moorthi Stefanie Devi
Published: September 2021

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are globally increasing in number and spatial extent. However, their propagation dynamics along environmental gradients and the associated interplay of abiotic factors and biotic interactions are still poorly understood. In this study, a nutrient gradient was established in a linear meta‐ecosystem setup of five interconnected flasks containing an artificially assembled phytoplankton community. The harmful dinoflagellateAlexandrium catenellawas introduced into different positions along the nutrient gradient to investigate dispersal and spatial community dynamics. Overall, total algal biovolume increased, while community evenness decreased with increasing nutrient concentrations along the gradient.Alexandriumwas able to disperse through all flasks. On the regional scale, diatoms dominated the community, whereas on the local scale the dinoflagellate showed higher contributions at low nutrient concentrations and dominated the community at the lowest nutrient concentration, but only when initiated into this flask. A control treatment without dispersal revealed an even stronger dominance ofAlexandriumat the lowest nutrient concentration, indicating that dispersal and the associated nutrient exchange may weaken dinoflagellate dominance under low nutrient conditions. This study presents a first approach to experimentally investigate spatial dynamics and ecological interactions of a harmful dinoflagellate along an environmental gradient in a meta‐ecosystem setup, which has the potential to substantially enhance our understanding of the relevance of dispersal for HAB formation and propagation in combination with local environmental factors.
On the dependent product in toposes
Authors: Caramello Olivia , Zanfa Riccardo
Published: September 2021

We give an explicit construction of the dependent product in an elementary topos, and a site‐theoretic description for it in the case of a Grothendieck topos. Along the way, we obtain a number of results of independent interest, including an expression for the operation of universal quantification on subobjects in terms of finite limits and power objects.
Highly Shrinkable Objects as Obtained from 4D Printing
Authors: Chalissery Dilip , Schönfeld Dennis , Walter Mario , Shklyar Inga , Andrae Heiko , Schwörer Christoph , Amann Tobias , Weisheit Linda , Pretsch Thorsten
Published: September 2021

4D printing of shape memory polymers enables the production of thermoresponsive objects. In this contribution, a facile printing strategy is followed for an in‐house synthesized thermoplastic poly(ether urethane). Processing by means of fused filament fabrication, in which the difference between nozzle temperature and material‐specific glass transition temperature of the polymer is kept as low as possible, allows to obtain highly shrinkable objects whose shape and thermoresponsiveness can be precisely controlled. The effectiveness of the method also applies to the printing material polylactic acid. One possible application lies in highly shrinkable objects for assembly purposes. As proof‐of‐concept, lightweight hands‐free door openers for healthcare applications are functionally simulated and developed. Once printed, such devices shrink when heated to fit on door handles, allowing an easy assembly. At the end‐of‐use, a heating‐initiated disassembling and mechanical recycling are proposed. In perspective, a reuse of the materials in 4D printing can contribute to the emergence of a circular economy for such highly functional materials.
Two new cases of interstitial 7q35q36.1 deletion including CNTNAP2 and KMT2C
Authors: Tosca Lucie , Drévillon Loïc , Mouka Aurélie , Lecerf Laure , Briand Audrey , Ortonne Valérie , Benoit Virginie , Brisset Sophie , Van Maldergem Lionel , Laudouar Quitterie , Heide Solveig , Goossens Michel , Giurgea Irina , Tachdjian Gérard , Métay Corinne
Published: September 2021

Background

Terminal deletions of the long arm of chromosome 7 are well known and frequently associated with syndromic holoprosencephaly due to the involvement of the SHH (aliases HHG1, SMMCI, TPT, TPTPS, and MCOPCB5) gene region. However, interstitial deletions including CNTNAP2 (aliases Caspr2, KIAA0868, and NRXN4) and excluding the SHH region are less common.

Methods

We report the clinical and molecular characterization associated with pure 7q35 and 7q35q36.1 deletion in two unrelated patients as detected by oligonucleotide‐based array‐CGH analysis.

Results

The common clinical features were abnormal maternal serum screening during first‐trimester pregnancy, low occipitofrontal circumference at birth, hypotonia, abnormal feet, developmental delay, impaired language development, generalized seizures, hyperactive behavior, friendly personality, and cranio‐facial dysmorphism. Both deletions occurred de novo and sequencing of CNTNAP2, a candidate gene for epilepsy and autism showed absence of mutation on the contralateral allele.

Conclusion

Combined haploinsufficiency of GALNTL5 (alias GalNAc‐T5L), CUL1, SSPO (aliases SCO‐spondin, KIAA0543, and FLJ36112), AOC1 (alias DAO), RHEB, and especially KMT2C (alias KIAA1506 and HALR) with monoallelic disruption of CNTNAP2 may explain neurologic abnormalities, hypotonia, and exostoses. Haploinsufficiency of PRKAG2 (aliases AAKG, AAKG2, H91620p, WPWS, and CMH6) and KCNH2 (aliases Kv11.1, HERG, and erg1) genes may be responsible of long QT syndrome observed for one patient.
One or two venous pedicles by anastomoses for free flaps in reconstruction of the lower extremity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dodd Shawn X. , Morzycki Alexander , Nickel Kevin J. , Campbell Sandra , Guilfoyle Regan
Published: September 2021

Background

Microsurgical free tissue transfers are a mainstay of lower extremity reconstruction. Despite being a reliable source of soft tissue, complications do arise. Venous congestion is among the most common causes of flap failure in lower extremity reconstruction, an issue that is attributed to venous stasis and impaired venous return in this region. There remains significant debate whether dual venous drainage improves outcomes. The aim of this study was thus to compare one versus two venous anastomoses in lower limb free flap reconstruction.

Methods

A systematic review of Medline, EMBASE, EBSCO CINAHL, SCOPUS, Proquest Dissertations and Theses Global, Cochrane Library, and PROSPERO from inception to May 20, 2020, was conducted. Two independent reviewers screened titles and extracted data. Our primary outcome was total free flap necrosis. Secondary outcomes were partial flap necrosis, minor complications, flap reoperation, venous thrombosis, and amputation. Methodological quality was assessed using the MINORS criteria and level of evidence.

Results

Three‐hundred and fourteen unique titles were identified. All studies were level VI evidence and had a mean MINORS score of 16.1/24. Seven studies (comprising 1499 patients, 910 single venous anastomoses, and 579 double venous anastomoses) met criteria for inclusion. The mean (SD) patient age was 46.5 (7.1) years. Double venous anastomoses did not reduce the rate of minor complications, flap takeback, venous thrombosis, total flap necrosis, or partial flap necrosis when compared to a single vein (all p > .05).

Conclusion

In microvascular lower extremity reconstruction, two venous anastomoses did not reduce the rate of minor or major complications.
Quasi‐Yagi antenna with parasitic cells and its array for 5G mm‐wave operations
Authors: Qiu Peiyi , Feng Quanyuan , Miyahara Koto , Kanaya Haruichi
Published: September 2021

A quasi‐Yagi antenna with parasitic cells and its array are proposed for 5G mm‐wave bands. For the antenna unit, through introducing the parasitic cells, the gain could be enhanced maximum of 1.3 dB without increasing the antenna length and a wide bandwidth served for the 5G N258 band. Besides, substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) with short‐circuit metal vias is employed as the feed structure and reflector, which can easily tune the impedance matching. For the antenna array, by designing a SIW power divider, the antenna element can be convenient to integrate as a 1 × 4 end‐fire array. The antenna unit and its array have been fabricated and measured. The measured results show that the high peak gain of the element and array is 9.06 and 14.38 dB within the operation bands (24.25–27.5 GHz), respectively. It is suitable for miniaturized end‐fire devices with 5G N258 mm‐wave operation systems.
Physical activity changes during behavioral weight loss treatment by Latinx patients with obesity with and without binge eating disorder
Authors: Grilo Carlos M. , Kerrigan Stephanie G. , Lydecker Janet A. , White Marney A.
Published: September 2021

Objective

This secondary analysis examined physical activity (PA) changes and their prognostic significance among Latinx patients with obesity, with and without binge eating disorder (BED), who participated in a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial testing the addition of orlistat to behavioral weight‐loss (BWL) treatment in a “real‐world” clinical setting.

Methods

In this randomized controlled trial at a community mental health center serving economically disadvantaged Spanish‐speaking‐only Latinx patients, 79 patients with obesity (40 with BED and 39 without BED) received BWL treatment and were randomized to orlistat or placebo. PA, weight, depression, and binge eating were assessed at baseline, posttreatment (end of treatment [4 months]), and the 6‐month follow‐up (10 months after baseline).

Results

PA was low at baseline (9.3% categorized as “active”), increased during treatment (32.9% categorized as “active” at posttreatment), and declined from posttreatment to the 6‐month follow‐up (28.2% classified as “active”). At baseline, PA was lower among patients with BED than those without BED. Changes in PA during and after treatment did not differ by BED status or medication condition. PA change was associated with reduced depression but not weight loss.

Conclusions

Latinx patients with obesity receiving BWL treatment achieved significant, albeit modest, increases in PA. Although PA changes were not associated with weight loss, they were associated with reduced depression. Identifying methods to increase PA further is necessary.
Envisioning a resilient future for biodiversity conservation in the wake of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Thurstan Ruth H. , Hockings Kimberley J. , Hedlund Johanna S. U. , Bersacola Elena , Collins Claire , Early Regan , Ermiasi Yunsiska , Fleischer‐Dogley Frauke , Gilkes Gabriella , Harrison Mark E. , Imron Muhammad Ali , Kaiser‐Bunbury Christopher N. , Refly Katoppo Daniel , Marriott Cheryl , Muzungaile Marie‐May , Nuno Ana , Regalla de Barros Aissa , van Veen Frank , Wijesundara Isuru , Dogley Didier , Bunbury Nancy
Published: September 2021

As the COVID‐19 pandemic continues to affect societies across the world, the ongoing economic and social disruptions are likely to present fundamental challenges for current and future biodiversity conservation.

We review the literature for outcomes of past major societal, political, economic and zoonotic perturbations on biodiversity conservation, and demonstrate the complex implications of perturbation events upon conservation efforts. Building on the review findings, we use six in‐depth case studies and the emerging literature to identify positive and negative outcomes of the COVID‐19 pandemic, known and anticipated, for biodiversity conservation efforts around the world.

A number of similarities exist between the current pandemic and past perturbations, with experiences highlighting that the pandemic‐induced declines in conservation revenue and capacity, livelihood and trade disruptions are likely to have long‐lasting and negative implications for biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Yet, the COVID‐19 pandemic also brought about a global pause in human movement that is unique in recent history, and may yet foster long‐lasting behavioural and societal changes, presenting opportunities to strengthen and advance conservation efforts in the wake of the pandemic. Enhanced collaborations and partnerships at the local level, cross‐sectoral engagement, local investment and leadership will all enhance the resilience of conservation efforts in the face of future perturbations. Other actions aimed at enhancing resilience will require fundamental institutional change and extensive government and public engagement and support if they are to be realised.

The pandemic has highlighted the inherent vulnerabilities in the social and economic models upon which many conservation efforts are based. In so doing, it presents an opportunity to reconsider the status quo for conservation, and promotes behaviours and actions that are resilient to future perturbation.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Late mortality among survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia diagnosed during 1971–2008 in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Sørensen Gitte V. , Belmonte Federica , Erdmann Friederike , Mogensen Hanna , Albieri Vanna , Holmqvist Anna S. , Madanat‐Harjuoja Laura , Talbäck Mats , Heyman Mats M. , Malila Nea , Feychting Maria , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Winther Jeanette F. , Hasle Henrik
Published: September 2021

Objective

Investigate all‐cause and cause‐specific late mortality after childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in a population‐based Nordic cohort.

Methods

From the cancer registries of Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, we identified 3765 five‐year survivors of ALL, diagnosed before age 20 during 1971–2008. For each survivor, up to five matched comparison subjects were randomly selected from the general population (n = 18,323). Causes of death were classified as relapse related, health related, and external. Late mortality was evaluated by cumulative incidences of death from 5‐year survival date. Mortality hazard ratios (HR) were evaluated with Cox proportional models.

Results

Among the survivors, 315 deaths occurred during a median follow‐up of 16 years from 5‐year survival date (range 0–42). The majority were attributable to relapse (n = 224), followed by second neoplasm (n = 45). Cumulative incidence of all‐cause late mortality at 15 years from diagnosis decreased gradually over treatment decades, from 14.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.6–17.2) for survivors diagnosed during 1971–1981, to 2.5% (95% CI: 1.3–3.7) for those diagnosed during 2002–2008. This was mainly attributable to a reduction in relapse‐related deaths decreasing from 13.4% (95% CI: 10.7–16.1) for survivors diagnosed during 1971–1981 to 1.9% (95% CI: 0.9–2.8) for those diagnosed during 2002–2008. Health‐related late mortality was low and did not change substantially across treatment decades. Compared to comparison subjects, all‐cause mortality HR was 40 (95% CI: 26–61) 5–9 years from diagnosis, and 4.4 (95% CI: 3.4–5.6) ≥10 years from diagnosis.

Conclusions

Survivors of ALL have higher late mortality than population comparison subjects. Among the survivors, there was a temporal reduction in risk of death from relapse, without increments in health‐related death.
Synergy of B4C@MoS2 hybrid for significantly improved mechanical and tribological properties of PI/PTFE fabric composites
Authors: Liu Meng , Zhang Zhaozhu , Wang Yanling , Li Peilong , Yang Mingming , Yuan Junya
Published: September 2021

In this study, a hierarchical B4C@MoS2 hybrid is constructed by growing MoS2 nanoflowers onto micro B4C (boron carbide) surface via an in situ hydrothermal process. Thereinto, the PDA/PEI (polydopamine/polyethyleneimine) co‐deposition coating covers over the micro B4C surface to serve as the interfacial interlayer responsible for assembling the B4C and MoS2 together strongly. The achieved B4C@MoS2 hybrid is used to strengthen the tribological performance of PI/PTFE fabric phenolic composites. Tests showed that the resultant B4C@MoS2/fabric composites exhibited effective enhancement in hardness because of the outstanding strength and modulus of B4C. Meanwhile, the thermal stability of B4C@MoS2/fabric composites significantly outperformed the MoS2/fabric composites resulting from the excellent thermal and barrier properties of B4C. Moreover, the tribological tests manifested that the wear rate of B4C@MoS2/fabric composites was decreased by 84% compared to that of pure composites. The synergetic enhancement effect between B4C and MoS2 was revealed by worn surfaces and tribofilms analysis. The B4C@MoS2/fabric composites possessed the optimal wear resistance ascribed to the excellent load‐bearing capacity of B4C and lubricating property of MoS2.
Identification of fetal aneuploidy with dual‐probe fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis in circulating trophoblasts after enrichment using a high‐sensitivity microfluidic platform
Authors: Sonek Jiri , Muller Rolf , Muller‐Cohn Judy , Dickerson Janet , Garcia Lopez Brenda , Barber‐Singh Jennifer , Dufek Dylan , Hiett Adam Kinney , Buchanan Philip
Published: September 2021

Objective

To evaluate a microfluidics‐based positive selection technology for isolating circulating trophoblasts (CTs) from peripheral blood of women whose pregnancies are affected by aneuploidy and to evaluate fetal karyotype using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH).

Method

Ten 18‐ml samples of peripheral blood were collected consecutively from pregnant women whose fetus was affected by aneuploidy. A preservation buffer was added, and the specimens were shipped overnight to the testing laboratory at ambient temperature. The specimen was infused into the fully automated microfluidics‐based LiquidScan® instrument without pre‐processing. This instrument contains microfluidic chips, which are coated with antibodies (anti‐huEpCAM and a proprietary antibody mixture) specific to CT surface epitopes. FISH analysis was performed on the enriched cells.

Results

Fetal aneuploidy evaluated included trisomy 21 (n = 3), trisomy 18 (n = 1), trisomy 13 (n = 1), monosomy X (n = 3), and triploidy (n = 1). CTs for analysis by FISH were identified in all samples. The average number of mononucleate cells per 1 ml of whole blood was 2.11 (range 0.38–4.63) overall and was 2.67 (range 1.13–4.63) using the proprietary combination of antibodies. FISH results were concordant with the aneuploidy based on other testing in all cases. Multinucleate cells were searched for and identified in the last seven samples (average number: 0.84/1 ml).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the LiquidScan®, a high‐sensitivity microfluidic platform, can enrich circulating trophoblasts (mononucleate and multinucleate). FISH can then be used to detect fetal aneuploidy.
Fetal open spinal dysraphism repair through a mini‐hysterotomy: Influence of gestational age at surgery on children's ability to walk
Authors: Peralta Cleisson Fábio Andrioli , Botelho Rafael Davi , Imada Vanessa , Lamis Fabricio , Antunes Danielle Ribeiro Vieira , Nani Fernando , Balsalobre Andreza Gonzaga Bartilotti
Published: September 2021

Objective

To analyze the impact of gestational age (GA) at the time of fetal open spinal dysraphism (OSD) repair through a mini‐hysterotomy on the ability of children to walk.

Methods

Children who underwent in utero repair of OSD and had formal neurological assessment after 2.5 years of age were compared regarding their ability to walk in relation to pre‐surgical predictors.

Results

Sixty‐nine children fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Among them, 63.7% (44/69) were able to walk with or without orthesis. Fetal OSD correction performed earlier in gestation (from 19.7 to 26.9 weeks) was associated with a higher probability of walking with or without orthesis (p = 0.033). The median GA at delivery was 35.3 weeks. Multivariate binary logistic regression showed that the upper anatomical level of the OSD ( L5) (p < 0.004; OR: 10.31 [95% CI: 2.07–51.28]) and GA at the time of fetal surgery (p = 0.026; OR = 0.68 [95% CI: 0.48–0.95]) were independent predictors of the postnatal ability to walk with or without orthesis.

Conclusion

Fetuses with OSD who were operated on earlier in pregnancy (range: 19.7–26.9 weeks), were more likely to walk with or without orthesis.
Analysis and modeling of modified styrene–acrylonitrile/carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber nanocomposites filled with graphene and graphene oxide: Interfacial interaction and nonlinear elastoplastic behavior
Authors: Azizli Mohammad Javad , Dehaghi Fatemeh Morshedi , Nasrollahi Bahareh , Barghamadi Mohammad , Rezaeeparto Katayoon , Parham Somayeh , Mokhtary Masoud , Ramakrishna Seeram , Ghomi Erfan Rezvani
Published: September 2021

Nonlinear elastoplastic behavior of the nanocomposites based on the styrene–acrylonitrile/carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (SAN/XNBR) blend was investigated using experimental and theoretical analysis. Graphene, graphene oxide nanoparticles, and glycidyl methacrylate‐grafted‐XNBR (XNBR‐g‐GMA) as a compatibilizer were incorporated in the SAN/XNBR blends. In this regard, the focus of this study is on modeling of the stress–strain behavior of these nanocomposites, considering the effect of the interfacial interactions made by compatibilizer. For this purpose, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques were used to investigate the relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. In addition, FESEM and TEM images showed that the presence of a compatibilizer could influence the dispersion and localization of the nanoparticles. According to the tensile test results, the presence of the compatibilizer increased the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites, specifically elongation at break. Considering the nanocomposite containing compatibilizer and graphene oxide, the elongation at break increased about 570% compared with the nanocomposite without compatibilizer. Better dispersion of graphene oxide and the creation of chemical interaction among components in the presence of the XNBR‐g‐GMA compatibilizer could be the reasons for these improvements, as confirmed by TEM. The usage of the Bergstrom–Boyce model for analyzing the nonlinear elastoplastic behavior of the nanocomposites illustrated proper conformity with the experimental data in the elastic region. However, there are some deviations in the viscoplastic region, particularly close to the breaking elongation region.
Mechanically strong and stiff supramolecular polymers enabled by fiber reinforced long‐chain alkane matrix
Authors: Lv Ping , Shen Xin , Cui Zhiliyu , Li Bo , Xu Qiangqiang , Yu Zhuo , Lu Weijie , Shao Haonan , Ge Yan , Qi Zhenhui
Published: September 2021

Fiber‐reinforced‐concrete (FRC) mechanism refers short discrete fibers that are uniformly distributed and randomly oriented, which offers an effective way to improve the mechanical performance of concrete. In the design of supramolecular polymers, an analogous concept of FRC appears to have been considered very rarely‐although fibrous structure has been frequently observed/generated during the supramolecular polymerization. In this work, we apply the alkane thermosets, octadecane (C18H38) and tetracosane (C24H50), taking the role of “concrete”, and the low‐molecular‐weight monomer with long alkyl chains as the essential “fiber” component, to fabricate the “fiber reinforced supramolecular polymer”. Very much like FRC mechanism in material science, the resulting fiber reinforced supramolecular polymer thus exhibit unusually high mechanical strength and stiffness, which is unprecedented in the conventional supramolecular strategy.
How do Cormic Index profiles contribute to differences in spirometry values between White and First Nations Australian children?
Authors: Collaro Andrew J. , Chang Anne B. , Marchant Julie M. , Chatfield Mark D. , Blake Tamara L. , McElrea Margaret S.
Published: September 2021

Background

Spirometry values of First Nations Australian children are lower than White children. One explanation relates to differences in the sitting‐height/standing‐height ratio (Cormic Index), as this accounts for up to half the observed differences in spirometry values between White children and other ethnicities. We investigated whether the Cormic Index of First Nations children differs from White children and if this explains the lower spirometry values of First Nations children.

Methods

First Nations children (n = 619) aged 8–16 years were recruited from nine Queensland communities. Their spirometry and Cormic Index data were compared to that of White children (n = 907) aged 8–16 years from the NHANES III dataset.

Results

FEV1 and FVC of First Nations children was 8% lower for children aged 8–11.9 years and 9%–10% lower for children aged 12–16 years. The Cormic Index was statistically lower in the First Nations 8–11.9 years group (median = 0.515, interquartile range [IQR]: 0.506–0.525) compared with White children (0.519, IQR: 0.511–0.527), and this difference was greater in the 12–16 years group (0.505, IQR: 0.492–0.516; 0.520, IQR: 0.510–0.529). Adjusting for age, sex, and standing height, lower Cormic Index of First Nations children accounts for 14% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 7%–21%) of FEV1 and 15% (95% CI: 8%–21%) of FVC differences in the younger group, and 26% (95% CI: 16%–37%) of FEV1 and 31% (95% CI: 19%–42%) of FVC differences in the older group.

Conclusion

Ethnic differences in Cormic Index partly account for why healthy First Nations Australian children have lower spirometry values than White children. As childhood spirometry values impact adult health, other contributing factors require attention.
Dosimetric validation of two different radiobiological models for parotid gland functionality of tongue cancer
Authors: Pramanik Srimanta , Bera Soumen , Roy Sanjoy , Ray Amitabh , Sarkar Sandip , Majumder Dipanjan
Published: September 2021

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) for parotid gland of ca tongue patients from two different radiobiological models and to establish a dosimetric validity.

Methods

Lyman–Kutcher–Burman (LKB) model and linear quadratic (LQ) model were considered for determination of NTCP and tolerance dose (TD5/5 and TD50/5) for the parotid gland of 67 number of ca tongue patients who were treated with the volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) technique. An in‐house developed software on Excel (VBA) was used for this study.

Results

The equivalent uniform dose (EUD) was linearly proportional to the effective volume (veff) for parotid glands and there was a strong correlation between EUD and veff. At EUD = 46 to 47 Gy, the NTCP of parotid was 0.5 for both the models. The tolerance doses, TD5/5 (veff) and TD50/5 (veff) were exponentially reduced with increase of veff for LKB model; whereas these parameters were volume‐independent in the LQ model. TD5/5 (veff) and TD50/5 (veff) were 31.98 Gy and 45.98 Gy respectively for all 67 patients in the LQ model. Below TD50/5, NTCP of LKB model was less than the NTCP , calculated from LQ model.

Conclusion

One may consider radiobiological LQ model for estimation of clinical tolerance dose for OARs. Due to lack of clinical data, there are inaccuracy in determination of NTCP from LQ model. If sufficient number of tolerance data for partial volumes are available, the prediction of NTCP would be more confident.
The impact of the extent and location of positive surgical margins on the risk of biochemical recurrence following radical prostatectomy in men with Gleason 7 prostate cancers
Authors: Matti Bashar , Reeves Fairleigh , Prouse Matthew , Zargar‐Shoshtari Kamran
Published: September 2021

Background

Positive surgical margins (PSM) after radical prostatectomy (RP) have been associated with increased risk of biochemical recurrence (BCR). This is heavily influenced by other clinicopathological factors. This study aims to assess the impact of the extent and location of PSM on BCR following RP for Gleason 7 carcinoma of the prostate (CaP).

Materials and Methods

All men treated with RP between 2008 and 2017 in our region for localized or locally advanced Gleason 7 CaP, were included. Clinical (age, year, preoperative prostate specific antigen) and pathological (prostate weight, positive or negative surgical margins, International Society of Urological Pathology [ISUP] grade, T stage) data were collected. PSM were subcategorised according to Extent into favourable (unifocal and <3 mm in length) or unfavourable (multifocal or ≥3 mm in length), and Location into apical only or others. The outcome was the risk of BCR which was calculated with univariable and multivariable regression models and reported as hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

The cohort constituted of 1433 men. Majority had ISUP 2 (71.2%) or localized (62%) disease. Men with PSM (n = 506) were at greater risk of BCR when compared to those with negative margins (adjusted HR = 1.52, [CI: 1.14–2.04], p = .005). Similar observation was demonstrated for both PSM location subgroups. As for the PSM extent category, only men with unfavourable PSM demonstrated an increase in BCR risk over negative margin (adjusted HR = 1.67, [CI: 1.23–2.28], p = .001).

Conclusions

Within this study settings, PSM were generally associated with increased BCR risk. This, however, was not demonstrated in favourable PSM extent cases. Observation rather than active treatment in these men should be considered.
Evolution of the SARS‐CoV‐2 proteome in three dimensions (3D) during the first 6 months of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Lubin Joseph H. , Zardecki Christine , Dolan Elliott M. , Lu Changpeng , Shen Zhuofan , Dutta Shuchismita , Westbrook John D. , Hudson Brian P. , Goodsell David S. , Williams Jonathan K. , Voigt Maria , Sarma Vidur , Xie Lingjun , Venkatachalam Thejasvi , Arnold Steven , Alfaro Alvarado Luz Helena , Catalfano Kevin , Khan Aaliyah , McCarthy Erika , Staggers Sophia , Tinsley Brea , Trudeau Alan , Singh Jitendra , Whitmore Lindsey , Zheng Helen , Benedek Matthew , Currier Jenna , Dresel Mark , Duvvuru Ashish , Dyszel Britney , Fingar Emily , Hennen Elizabeth M. , Kirsch Michael , Khan Ali A. , Labrie‐Cleary Charlotte , Laporte Stephanie , Lenkeit Evan , Martin Kailey , Orellana Marilyn , Ortiz‐Alvarez de la Campa Melanie , Paredes Isaac , Wheeler Baleigh , Rupert Allison , Sam Andrew , See Katherine , Soto Zapata Santiago , Craig Paul A. , Hall Bonnie L. , Jiang Jennifer , Koeppe Julia R. , Mills Stephen A. , Pikaart Michael J. , Roberts Rebecca , Bromberg Yana , Hoyer J. Steen , Duffy Siobain , Tischfield Jay , Ruiz Francesc X. , Arnold Eddy , Baum Jean , Sandberg Jesse , Brannigan Grace , Khare Sagar D. , Burley Stephen K.
Published: September 2021

Understanding the molecular evolution of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus as it continues to spread in communities around the globe is important for mitigation and future pandemic preparedness. Three‐dimensional structures of SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins and those of other coronavirusess archived in the Protein Data Bank were used to analyze viral proteome evolution during the first 6 months of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Analyses of spatial locations, chemical properties, and structural and energetic impacts of the observed amino acid changes in >48 000 viral isolates revealed how each one of 29 viral proteins have undergone amino acid changes. Catalytic residues in active sites and binding residues in protein–protein interfaces showed modest, but significant, numbers of substitutions, highlighting the mutational robustness of the viral proteome. Energetics calculations showed that the impact of substitutions on the thermodynamic stability of the proteome follows a universal bi‐Gaussian distribution. Detailed results are presented for potential drug discovery targets and the four structural proteins that comprise the virion, highlighting substitutions with the potential to impact protein structure, enzyme activity, and protein–protein and protein–nucleic acid interfaces. Characterizing the evolution of the virus in three dimensions provides testable insights into viral protein function and should aid in structure‐based drug discovery efforts as well as the prospective identification of amino acid substitutions with potential for drug resistance.
High Hole Mobility of Polycrystalline GeSn Layers Grown by Hot‐Wire Chemical Vapor Deposition on Diamond Substrates
Authors: Buzynin Yury N. , Shengurov Vladimir G. , Denisov Sergei A. , Yunin Pavel A. , Chalkov Vadim Yu. , Drozdov Michael N. , Korolyov Sergei A. , Nezhdanov Alexei V.
Published: September 2021

The conditions for the growth of polycrystalline GeSn layers on diamond substrates are determined. The effect of the incorporation of Sn in Ge layers on their morphology, structure, and transport properties is studied. GeSn layers with a thickness of 0.5 μm, obtained by the hot‐wire chemical vapor deposition method at 300 °C without annealing, are uniform with a surface roughness of less than 1.0 nm. It is shown that the incorporation of 1% Sn into the Ge lattice makes it possible to significantly increase the hole mobility of the GeSn layers from 30 to 140 cm2 V−1 s−1 despite the small crystallite grain size of 35–45 nm.
Remaining useful life prediction for complex systems considering varying future operational conditions
Authors: Chang Liang , Lin Yan‐Hui , Zio Enrico
Published: September 2021

Remaining useful life (RUL) prediction technology is important for optimizing maintenance schedules. With the advancement of sensing technology, several deep learning approaches have been proposed to predict RUL without relying on prior knowledge about systems. However, previous deep learning‐based approaches rarely consider the future operational conditions, which can be known according to the future work plan and is an important influential factor for RUL prediction. This paper proposes a multi‐input neural network based on long short‐term memory for RUL prediction considering the temporal dependencies among the measurements when the future operational conditions are known. The sliding window approach is employed for determining the input time sequences of previous monitoring data (including operational condition and sensor measurements), and the length of input time sequences of the future operational conditions are determined based on the prior estimated RUL. Fine‐tuning strategy is proposed to make the training of the multi‐input network more effective. To illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods, a case study referring to the C‐MAPSS dataset is used and a sensitivity analysis is also conducted on the future operational conditions.
Pharmacological interventions to prevent Covid‐19 disease: A rapid review
Authors: Cardwell Karen , O Murchu Eamon , Byrne Paula , Broderick Natasha , Walsh Kieran A. , O'Neill Sinéad M. , Smith Susan M. , Harrington Patricia , Ryan Máirín , O'Neill Michelle
Published: September 2021

The aim of this rapid review was to determine the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions (excluding vaccines) to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) or reduce the severity of disease. A systematic search of published peer‐reviewed articles and non‐peer‐reviewed pre‐prints was undertaken from 1 January 2020 to 17 August 2021. Four randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and one non‐RCT were included; three trials (two RCTs and one non‐RCT) tested ivermectin with or without carrageenan. While all reported some potential protective effect of ivermectin, these trials had a high risk of bias and the certainty of evidence was deemed to be ‘very low’. One RCT tested bamlanivimab compared to placebo and reported a significantly reduced incidence of Covid‐19 in the intervention group; this trial had a low risk of bias however the certainty of evidence was deemed ‘very low’. The fifth RCT tested casirivimab plus imdevimab versus placebo and reported that the combination of monoclonal antibodies significantly reduced the incidence of symptomatic and asymptomatic SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, viral load, duration of symptomatic disease and the duration of a high viral load; this trial was deemed to have a low risk of bias, and the certainty of evidence was ‘low’. The designations ‘low' and ‘very low’ regarding the certainty of evidence indicate that the estimate of effect is uncertain and therefore is unsuitable for informing decision‐making. At the time of writing, there is insufficient high quality evidence to support the use of pharmacological interventions to prevent Covid‐19.
An adaptive homogeneous domination method to time‐varying control of nonlinear systems
Authors: Liu Zhen‐Guo , Tian Ya‐Ping , Sun Zong‐Yao
Published: September 2021

The adaptive control issue of uncertain nonlinear system which has complicated polynomial growing condition is studied. Utilizing the dynamic‐gain transformation, we transform the considered system into the time‐varying system. By using a recursively design for its nominal system, a controller is skillfully constructed first. Subsequently, for the original system, by flexibly utilizing the dynamic gain and presenting an adaptive homogeneous domination method, a new time‐varying adaptive controller is successfully obtained to ensure that the equilibrium point is globally asymptotically stable. An extended robust adaptive controller is also provided. Finally, we discuss two examples to verify the proposed approach.
Recent Advances in the Nitration of Olefins
Authors: Paul Nilanjan , Maity Soham , Panja Subir , Maiti Debabrata
Published: September 2021

Nitroolefins are important synthetic intermediates in the field of organic synthesis as well as in medicinal chemistry. The high reactivity of nitroalkenes due to the polarized double bond which enables them to act as Michael acceptor in conjugate addition reactions, or as a dienophile in cycloaddition makes it an essential synthetic handle for accessing complex molecules. The classical method to prepare nitroolefins is indeed the Henry nitroaldol reaction, where a carbonyl compound and nitroalkane are condensed in presence of base. Direct nitration of olefin, on the other hand, serves as a useful alternative as olefins are abundant, have broad commercial availability and easy to manipulate. In this context, numerous methods have been developed over the last few decades, focusing on direct nitration of styrene and aliphatic olefins. Furthermore, thorough literature search revealed that implementation of this class of reactions are gaining momentum as a preferred pathway to access nitroolefins, despite the presence of a powerful technique such as Henry reaction. In this review, we aim to cover recent advances in direct olefin nitration and their importance in accessing biorelevant molecules, total synthesis targets and future outlook in this specific research area.
Is age at menarche a predictor of maternal birth trauma?
Authors: Tecson‐Lim M. , Pacquee S. , Gillor M. , Shek K. L. , Dietz H. P.
Published: September 2021

Objective

Age at menarche and the interval between menarche and age at first vaginal birth have been shown to be associated with reproductive performance; however, their association with maternal birth trauma has not been studied. We aimed to determine whether age at menarche, age at first vaginal birth and their interval are associated independently with levator ani muscle (LAM) avulsion and external anal sphincter (EAS) defect.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of the ultrasound volume datasets of 466 vaginally parous patients attending one of two tertiary urogynecological units in Australia. All patients had undergone a standardized interview and clinical examination using the pelvic organ prolapse quantification staging system, followed by four‐dimensional translabial ultrasound. Tomographic ultrasound imaging was used to evaluate the LAM for avulsion and the EAS for significant defect.

Results

Of the 466 women analyzed, LAM avulsion was diagnosed in 121 (26.0%) and significant EAS defect in 55 (11.8%). Logistic regression analysis showed no association between age at menarche and LAM avulsion (P = 0.67). Weak but significant associations were noted between LAM avulsion and age at first vaginal birth (odds ratio (OR), 1.070 (95% CI, 1.03–1.11); P = 0.0007) and between LAM avulsion and menarche‐to‐first‐vaginal‐birth interval (OR, 1.064 (95% CI, 1.02–1.11); P = 0.0018). No significant associations were noted between significant EAS defect and any of the evaluated variables (all P ≥ 0.49).

Conclusions

Age at menarche is not predictive of maternal birth trauma i.e. LAM avulsion and EAS residual defect. There was a statistically significant association between LAM avulsion and menarche‐to‐first‐vaginal‐birth interval; however, this was not stronger than the previously established association between LAM avulsion and age at first vaginal birth, arguing against any distinct effect of prolonged prepregnancy hormonal stimulation on the biomechanical properties of the pelvic floor. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Current anthelmintic and antibiotic use in UK organic farming systems
Authors: Chylinski Caroline , Borthwick Mark , Michie David , Hathway Sarah , Athanasiadou Spiridoula
Published: September 2021

Introduction

The use of anthelmintic and antibiotic medicines is imperative to prevent the suffering of diseased stock in organic farming. However, their use must be minimised to comply with low input ideals and prevent the spread of resistance. Reducing such inputs first requires determining their current use, but information is lacking. The objective of this study was to benchmark the current use of anthelmintics and antibiotics in UK organic livestock farming.

Methods

Data were gathered by conducting a national survey of organic livestock farmers in the UK and by analysing records of requests for allopathic medicines.

Results

Key findings include (i) anthelmintics used in sheep constitute the greatest input of veterinary medicines in organic systems, (ii) farmers are incorporating alternative/support tools in helminth control to reduce anthelmintic requirements, (iii) the use of antibiotics is targeting individual animals, whereas the use of anthelmintics is targeting groups of animals.

Conclusion

This study provides the first benchmark on the use of anthelmintics and antibiotics in UK organic livestock.
Intranasal meningoencephalocele in a 1‐year‐old Staffordshire Bull Terrier with unilateral destructive rhinitis
Authors: Rapastella Sofia , Brash Robert , Covey Heather , Sharman Mellora
Published: September 2021

An 18‐month‐old male neutered Staffordshire Bull Terrier presented for chronic sneezing, left‐sided rhinorrhea and epistaxis associated with previous nasal planum depigmentation and pruritus. Physical examination did not demonstrate bone asymmetry or depigmentation, but showed reduced airflow through the left nostril. No neurologic abnormalities were present. CT identified severe destruction of the left nasal turbinates and defect of the left cribriform plate, with protrusion of the left olfactory lobe into the caudal part of the nasal cavity. Rhinoscopy did not identify fungal plaques or foreign material, and nasal biopsies were consistent with lymphoplasmacytic destructive rhinitis. Tissue cultures were negative. Clinical signs completely resolved after 2 weeks of doxycycline treatment and did not recur. There was no development of neurologic abnormalities in the 12 months after diagnosis. This is the first case report of canine meningoencephalocele presenting with rhinitis‐associated signs without detectable neurologic abnormalities.