bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy‐aware redundancy‐aware clustering in wireless sensor networks using Spined Loach Searching Optimization
Authors: N. Sasikala , Sangaiah Pavalarajan
Published: November 2022

Wireless sensor networks play dominant role in data communication in many engineering applications and faces lot of challenges in its implementation. Energy conservation is also significantly required in these systems as the sensor nodes are battery operated. Hence, the energy efficient‐based technique needs to be implemented in data transmission. The most widely used methods are clustering‐based data transmission and energy efficient routing detection. In clustering, the proper selection of cluster head (CH) node is important to ensure energy balancing. The CH node should have more residual energy as it does many transmissions in the network. Moreover, the location of CH node should be nearer to all member nodes in the cluster. The clustering process must also perform the job of avoiding unnecessary transmissions. By considering these factors, the CH node can be optimally selected using Spined Loach Searching Optimization algorithm. The food searching behavior and environmental suitability for spiny loach fish living are deliberated to develop this bio‐inspired algorithm. In addition, the redundant transmissions inside the clusters can be reduced by employing a new technique called Least Difference Threshold Based Similarity Grouping. This work improves energy efficiency comparing with the conventional low energy adaptive clustering hierarchy protocol, and it is evaluated by setting the network in simulation environment. The network lifetime is increased; energy consumption, delay of transmission and the message cost are reduced.
Synthesis of 1,3‐Dioxan‐2‐ones by Photo‐Aerobic Selenium‐π‐Acid Multicatalysis
Authors: Müller Kilian A. , Nagel Carolin H. , Breder Alexander
Published: November 2022

An expedient method for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from homoallylic carbonic acid esters by means of photo‐aerobic selenium‐π‐acid multicatalysis is reported. Until now, conceptually related methods commonly relied either on the stoichiometric addition of electrophiles onto the substrate's alkene moiety or the presence of pre‐installed leaving groups in allylic position of said alkene to – in part, catalytically – initiate an intramolecular attack by an adjacent carbonic acid ester group. In sharp contrast, the current study shows that the C−C double bond of homoallylic carbonic acid esters can be directly activated by the catalytic interplay of a pyrylium dye and a diselane using ambient air as the sole oxidant and visible light as an energy source.
Furylenevinylene Oligomers as Extended Conjugated Systems from Renewable Materials
Authors: Mallet Charlotte , Frère Pierre
Published: November 2022

A series of furylenevinylene oligomers (FV) were synthesized from common furan platforms derived of lignocellulosic biomass. Their electronic properties were evaluated by UV‐Vis absorption and cyclic voltammetry and compared with thienylenevinylene analogues (TV). The difference between the electronic properties of these extended vinyl‐heterocycle derivatives is mainly due to the less aromatic character of the furan core that allows an easier access to the quinoidic form and thus, procures a better electronic delocalization. As a main consequence, the access to the dication state is favoured for the furan derivatives with a quasi‐coalescence of the two first oxidation potentials for 5 FV units.
Effect of modeling of inherent damping on the response and collapse performance of seismically isolated buildings
Authors: Kitayama Shoma , Constantinou Michael C.
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates the effect of inherent damping modeling on the computed seismic response and collapse performance of selected seismically isolated buildings. The analyzed seismically isolated buildings were designed by the procedures of the ASCE/SEI 7–16 standard. The structure is a six‐story perimeter frame building designed with special moment resisting frames or with special concentrically braced frames (SCBF) for a location in California. Three different seismic isolation systems are considered: (i) triple friction pendulum (TFP) bearings without moat walls, (ii) TFP bearings with moat walls (double concave [DC] friction pendulum bearings with moat walls have effectively the same ultimate behavior), and (iii) DC friction pendulum bearings without moat wall. The superstructure inherent damping schemes considered are (i) zero damping, (ii) modal damping, (iii) Zareian‐Medina damping, (iv) added virtual viscous dampers with and without force‐caps, and (v) added virtual viscous dampers with the same damping constant value. The response parameters computed are peak floor accelerations, peak story drift ratios, peak residual story drift ratios, peak isolator horizontal displacement, and floor acceleration spectra. Also, the probability of collapse in the maximum considered earthquake (MCER) is computed. It is shown that the modeling approach for the inherent damping has minor effects on the computed responses and the collapse probability of the studied seismically isolated buildings, except for the peak floor acceleration and the floor response spectra for periods below one second. It is suggested that a convenient way to model inherent damping is to use virtual viscous dampers with all having the same damping constant.
Grey neural network channel estimation and RBFNN hybrid precoding schemes for the multi user millimeter wave massive MIMO
Authors: B Pradheep T Rajan , N Muthukumaran
Published: November 2022

The millimeter wave (mm‐wave) multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) communications are the most promising technology specially developed for next‐generation wireless networks so that the throughput and available spectrum of the network has been massively increased. At base station, it has a large number of antenna arrays with coherent transceiver processing, which helps to increase spectral efficiency. Each antenna in conventional MIMO systems makes use of a single radio‐frequency (RF) chain to boost multiplexing gain. Additionally, due to broader bandwidth, channel frequency is selective and signal‐to‐noise (SNR) is low. A successful channel estimation training phase is thus required. However, the utilization of a huge number of antennas leads to unaffordable hardware costs and excessive power usage. In order to deliver high array gain at a more affordable price, hybrid precoding techniques are applied. Both baseband combinational matrix and baseband precoding matrix must be optimised when transmitter and receiver sides of mm‐wave MIMO systems adopt hybrid precoding architecture. In addition, the combinational matrix and the precoding matrix have to be simulated to obtain the maximum system sum rate. This requires an efficient hybrid precoding approach for generating improved array gain. Therefore, this work uses a novel grey neural network approach for channel estimation and radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) for hybrid precoding. For effective channel estimation, grey wolf optimization (GWO) works in conjunction with artificial neural networks (ANN) to produce optimum results. In mm‐wave MIMO systems, the hybrid precoding RBFNN offers reduced complexity and increased efficiency. As a result, the proposed work adopts neural networks to provide effective channel estimation and hybrid precoding.
Using US Natural Resource Damage Assessment to understand the environmental consequences of the war in Ukraine
Authors: Wenning Richard J. , Tomasi Theodore D.
Published: November 2022

Military conflict has led to large-scale environmental changes throughout recorded human history. Pollution from war contaminates surface water and soil, releases large volumes of greenhouse gases into the air, and directly harms wildlife and biodiversity. Although much is understood about the human toll of war, numerous examples of postwar reconstruction suggest that underestimating the severity of wartime damages to ecosystems and natural resources results in prolonged or incomplete recovery of the environment. A data-driven scientific approach closely aligned with the evidentiary rules standard in western legal systems is needed to quantify the injury, destruction, or loss of natural resources and inform the estimation of the reparations necessary to restore the environment fully. The US Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) process and the European Union environmental liability directive are well-suited for a systematic and science-based analysis of the ecological injuries incurred during armed conflicts. Both approaches include a preliminary damage assessment process, which could be initiated during wartime to document and predict the likely severity of the injuries and prioritize, in advance, rehabilitation activities after the cessation of hostilities. In this article, we refer to news reporting of Russia's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine as an example of how a preliminary damage assessment could be conducted remotely and later modified by in-country inspections and analysis to verify and refine the scale of injuries and to develop reparation proposals. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:366–375. © 2022 SETAC
Risk-based and sustainable approaches to remediation: Analysis and perspectives of the Italian and international context
Authors: Piccapietra Luca , Razzetti Cecilia , Gallo Lisa , Frisario Silvia
Published: November 2022

The management of contaminated areas is addressed at the international level with different regulatory instruments and approaches that can influence the selection of technologies, costs, and time for site recovery. The aim of this study was benchmarking the regulatory and technical approach to contaminated areas in both the Italian and international contexts, represented by eight European countries such as, among others, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the USA. An extensive international literature research was considered, including publications and reports by sector operators, legislators, and research groups, that enabled the identification of efficient and sustainable international practices and procedures for the contaminated site reclamation. Particular attention was paid to the status and costs of soil and groundwater remediation in Europe and in the United States. The outcomes of the study have shown that, from regulatory and administrative points of view, the remediation sector in Italy is among the most conservative, that is, more binding in the identification of contaminated sites and in the definition of remediation objectives. To reverse this trend and align it to the other countries that were the focus of this study, the concepts of mobility and/or bioavailability of contaminants, sustainability, and circular economy could be taken into account in the Italian administrative procedures. These concepts are currently only referred to in the Italian legislation but have not been yet made effectively applicable by codified procedures. In the Italian context, the conservative approach to site remediation may negatively affect the process of contaminated site reclamation and ecological transition. Further debate on the development of environmental regulations to align policies among the remediation stakeholders, particularly at the Italian and international regulatory level, is therefore needed. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:920–932. © 2022 SETAC
Diabetes, metformin use and risk of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma in postmenopausal women: A prospective cohort analysis in the Women's Health Initiative
Authors: Wang Zikun , Phillips Lawrence S. , Rohan Thomas E. , Ho Gloria Y. F. , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Bidulescu Aurelian , Rudick Charles N. , Pan Kathy , Chen Zhongxue , Luo Juhua
Published: November 2022

Epidemiologic evidence is limited about associations between T2DM, metformin, and the risk of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). We aimed to examine associations between T2DM, metformin, and the risk of NHL in the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) Study. Information on T2DM status (diabetes status/types of antidiabetic drug use/diabetes duration) from study enrollment and during follow‐up were assessed. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate associations of T2DM status with risks of overall NHL and its three major subtypes [diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL, n = 476), follicular lymphoma (FL, n = 301) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL, n = 136)] based on multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. During a median follow‐up of 18.86 years (range, 0.01‐25.13; SD ± 6.55), a total of 1637 women developed NHL among 147 885 postmenopausal women. Women with T2DM and with self‐reported oral medication use had 38% and 55% higher risk of DLBCL, respectively [multivariable‐adjusted model HR = 1.38, 95% CI (1.06‐1.81) and HR = 1.55, 95% CI (1.16‐2.06)] compared to the reference group (nondiabetics/untreated diabetes). Risks of NHL and DLBCL [multivariable‐adjusted model: HR = 1.28, 95% CI (1.06‐1.54) and HR = 1.56, 95% CI (1.13‐2.14), respectively] were significantly higher in associations with relatively short duration (≤7 years) of diabetes, compared to reference group. Additionally, an increased risk of DLBCL [HR = 1.76, 95% CI (1.13‐2.75)] was found in metformin users compared to the reference group. Postmenopausal women who had T2DM, who were oral antidiabetic drug users, especially metformin, and who had a shorter diabetes duration may have higher risks of DLBCL. Further well‐designed research is needed to confirm our findings.
Role of Bcl‐2 inhibition in myelodysplastic syndromes
Authors: Blum Sabine , Tsilimidos Gerasimos , Bresser Helena , Lübbert Michael
Published: November 2022

Myelodysplasic syndromes (MDS) are diseases occurring mainly in the elderly population. Although hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only hope for cure, a majority of the patients suffering from MDS are too old or frail for intensive treatment regimens such as intensive chemotherapy and transplantation. The gold standard for those patients is currently treatment with hypomethylating agents, although real‐life data could not reproduce the overall survival rates reported for the pivotal azacitidine phase III study. MDS treatment is often inspired by treatment for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The new gold standard for elderly and frail patients not able to undergo intensive treatment regimens in AML is the combination of hypomethylating agents with venetoclax, a BCL‐2 inhibitor that also showed excellent treatment outcomes in other hematological malignancies. In this review, we explain the rationale for the use of venetoclax in hematological malignancies, study outcomes available so far and the current knowledge of its use in MDS.
The impact of pancreatic cancer screening on life expectancy: A systematic review of modeling studies
Authors: Koopmann Brechtje D. M. , Omidvari Amir‐Houshang , Lansdorp‐Vogelaar Iris , Cahen Djuna L. , Bruno Marco J. , de Kok Inge M. C. M.
Published: November 2022

Evidence supporting the effectiveness of pancreatic cancer (PC) screening is scant. Most clinical studies concern small populations with short follow‐up durations. Mathematical models are useful to estimate long‐term effects of PC screening using short‐term indicators. This systematic review aims to evaluate the impact of PC screening on life expectancy (LE) in model‐based studies. Therefore, we searched four databases (Embase, Medline, Web‐of‐science, Cochrane) until 30 May 2022 to identify model‐based studies evaluating the impact of PC screening on LE in different risk populations. Two authors independently screened identified papers, extracted data and assessed the methodological quality of studies. A descriptive analysis was performed and the impact of screening strategies on LE of different risk groups was reported. Our search resulted in 419 studies, of which eight met the eligibility criteria (mathematical model, PC screening, LE). Reported relative risks (RR) for PC varied from 1 to 70. In higher risk individuals (RR > 5), annual screening (by imaging with 56% sensitivity for HGD/early stage PC) predicted to increase LE of screened individuals by 20 to 260 days. In the general population, one‐time PC screening was estimated to decrease LE (2‐110 days), depending on the test characteristics and treatment mortality risk. In conclusion, although the models use different and sometimes outdated or unrealistic assumptions, it seems that PC screening in high‐risk populations improves LE, and that this gain increases with a higher PC risk. Updated model studies, with data from large clinical trials are necessary to predict the long‐term effect of PC screening more accurately.
HPV‐negative high‐grade cervical precancerous lesions or invasive cancer in China: A post hoc analysis of a multicentric clinical study
Authors: Bao Heling , Zhao Yun , Zhang Xiaosong , Bi Hui , Cong Shu , Fang Liwen , Wang Hai‐Jun , Wang Linhong
Published: November 2022

Objective

To evaluate HPV‐negative cervical high‐grade precancerous lesions or cancer in China.

Methods

Histologically confirmed cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) were searched in a multicentric clinical study. All patients underwent cobas HPV testing, liquid‐based cytology, DNA ploidy analysis, and colposcopy‐guided biopsy. According to clinical practice, patients underwent p16ink4a staining and cone biopsy. Comparisons were made between HPV‐negative and ‐positive patients for clinical characteristics.

Results

The study found 61 cases of cobas HPV‐negative CIN2+ among 797 cases of histologically confirmed CIN2+, including 38 CIN2, 20 CIN3, and 3 invasive cancers. The prevalence of HPV‐negative CIN2+ and CIN3+ was 7.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.8–9.5) and 5.7% (95% CI 3.5–8.0), respectively. Among 24 cases with p16 staining, 20 showed p16 positivity. The proportions of normal or minor abnormalities in terms of colposcopy, cytology, and DNA ploidy were higher in HPV‐negative cases than in HPV‐positive cases. When adding cytology to the screening of symptomatic or previously HPV‐positive women, the prevalence of HPV‐negative CIN2+ or CIN3 would decrease by approximately 50%.

Conclusion

Less than one‐tenth of CIN2+ are missed by HPV‐only screening, and they have smaller lesions than HPV‐positive cases. Colposcopy should be considered for symptomatic or previously HPV‐positive women with HPV‐negative results.
Genetic influences on the interplay between obsessive‐compulsive behavior symptoms and cannabis use during adolescence
Authors: Kutzner Jodi , Elam Kit K. , Ha Thao
Published: November 2022

Introduction

There are overlapping biological origins and behaviors associated with obsessive‐compulsive symptoms (OCS) and cannabis use. There is also evidence that OCS and cannabis use are associated over time. Thus, we investigated polygenic predisposition for OCS as predictive of OCS and cannabis use from age 17 to 19. We hypothesized that greater genetic risk for OCS would predict both OCS and cannabis use.

Methods

The current study used participants from the Project Alliance 1 study, a US‐based sample, for whom genomic, OCS, and cannabis use data were available (n = 547). Polygenic risk scores (PRS) were formed via a meta‐genome‐wide association study on OCS and examined as a predictor of OCS and cannabis use at age 17 and 19. The sample was diverse (52.4% male; 45% European American, 30% African American, 14% multiracial, 5% Hispanic/Latino, 4% Asian American, and 2% other groups). Sensitivity analysis was performed by gender for European American and African American subsamples.

Results

Across the whole sample, the greater polygenic risk for OCS was negatively associated with cannabis use at age 17 and positively associated with OCS at 19. Cannabis use at age 17 was positively associated with OCS at age 19. The association between polygenic risk for OCS and cannabis use at age 17 was replicated in European American males, whereas the association between cannabis use at age 17 and OCS at age 19 was replicated in African American males.

Conclusions

Cannabis use may exacerbate OCS through adolescence, and genetic predisposition for OCS may be associated with lower cannabis use in efforts to avoid exacerbation of OCS.
GAMaterial—A genetic‐algorithm software for material design and discovery
Authors: Lourenço Maicon Pierre , Hostaš Jiří , Herrera Lizandra Barrios , Calaminici Patrizia , Köster Andreas M. , Tchagang Alain , Salahub Dennis R.
Published: November 2022

Genetic algorithms (GAs) are stochastic global search methods inspired by biological evolution. They have been used extensively in chemistry and materials science coupled with theoretical methods, ranging from force‐fields to high‐throughput first‐principles methods. The methodology allows an accurate and automated structural determination for molecules, atomic clusters, nanoparticles, and solid surfaces, fundamental to understanding chemical processes in catalysis and environmental sciences, for instance. In this work, we propose a new genetic algorithm software, GAMaterial, implemented in Python3.x, that performs global searches to elucidate the structures of atomic clusters, doped clusters or materials and atomic clusters on surfaces. For all these applications, it is possible to accelerate the GA search by using machine learning (ML), the ML@GA method, to build subsequent populations. Results for ML@GA applied for the dopant distributions in atomic clusters are presented. The GAMaterial software was applied for the automatic structural search for the Ti6O12 cluster, doping Al in Si11 (4Al@Si11) and Na10 supported on graphene (Na10@graphene), where DFTB calculations were used to sample the complex search surfaces with reasonably low computational cost. Finally, the global search by GA of the Mo8C4 cluster was considered, where DFT calculations were made with the deMon2k code, which is interfaced with GAMaterial.
Interfacial characteristics of BIOfactor MTA and Biodentine with dentin
Authors: Akbulut Makbule Bilge , Mutlu Şeref Nur , Soylu Mehmet Ali , Şimşek Emine
Published: November 2022

The objective of this study was to characterize the interface between dentin and MTA‐Angelus (Angelus, Londrina, Brasil), Biodentine (Septodont, France) and BIOfactor MTA (Imicryl, Konya, Turkey) using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy disperse X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Fifteen dentin segments were obtained from previously extracted single‐rooted human teeth. Canal lumens were instrumented with diamond burs and then randomly filled with MTA‐Angelus, Biodentine or BIOfactor MTA and placed in distilled water or Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution (HBSS) for 28‐days. The samples were examined with SEM and the thickness of the interfacial layer measured. SEM‐EDS analysis was performed to determine principal elemental composition of the material, dentin, and interfacial area. The marginal adaptation of cements to dentin was assessed by confocal microscopy and the percentage of material penetration was calculated. An interfacial layer was evident in approximately 70% of SEM images in both MTA‐Angelus and BIOfactor samples. The thickness of interfacial layer was significantly higher in HBSS than in distilled water for all groups. MTA Angelus resulted in the thickest interfacial layer in distilled water while Biodentine had the thickest interfacial layer in HBSS. Calcium levels within the BIOfactor MTA–dentin interface were higher than both dentin and cement. Dentin penetration was higher in BIOfactor MTA and silicon was evident in all material‐dentin interfaces. All calcium silicate‐based materials promoted the formation of an interfacial layer. BIOfactor MTA exhibited promising characteristics with its good marginal adaptation even though it presented a moderately thick interfacial layer.

Research Highlights

A distinguishable interfacial layer was observed in most of the samples within the BIOfactor MTA, MTA‐Angelus and Biodentine groups.

The elemental constitution of the interfacial layer was different from that of the calcium silicate based materials.
Interfacial properties of cationic and anionic Gemini surfactant mixtures
Authors: Zhang Wanju , Qu Yanbo , Lv Weixiang , Li Yichang
Published: November 2022

The possibility and the prospect of cationic/anionic (“catanionic”) surfactant mixtures based on sulfonate Gemini surfactant (SGS) and bisquaternary ammonium salt (BQAS) in the field of enhanced oil recovery was investigated. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of SGS/BQAS surfactant mixtures was 5.0 × 10−6 mol/L, 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than neat BQAS or SGS. A solution of either neat SGS or BQAS, could not reach an ultra‐low interfacial tension (IFT); but 1:1 mol/mol mixtures of SGS/BQAS reduced the IFT to 1.0 × 10−3 mN/m at 100 mg/L. For the studied surfactant concentrations, all mixtures exhibited the lowest IFT when the molar fraction of SGS among the surfactant equaled 0.5, indicating optimal conditions for interfacial activity. The IFT between the 1:1 mol/mol SGS/BQAS mixtures and crude oil decreased and then increased with the NaCl and CaCl2 concentrations. When the total surfactant concentration was above 50 mg/L, the IFT of SGS/BQAS mixtures was below 0.01 mN/m at the studied NaCl concentrations. Adding inorganic salt reduced the charges of hydrophilic head groups, thereby making the interfacial arrangement more compact. At the NaCl concentration was above 40,000 mg/L, surfactant molecules moved from the liquid–liquid interface to the oil phase, thus resulting in low interfacial activity. In addition, inorganic salts decreased the attractive interactions of the SGS/BQAS micelles that form in water, decreasing the apparent hydrodynamic radius (DH, app) of surfactant aggregates. When the total concentration of surfactants was above 50 mg/L, the IFT between the SGS/BQAS mixtures and crude oil decreased first and then increased with time. At different surfactant concentrations, the IFT of the SGS/BQAS mixtures attained the lowest values at different times. A high surfactant concentration helped surfactant molecules diffuse from the water phase to the interfacial layer, rapidly reducing the IFT. In conclusion, the cationic‐anionic Gemini surfactant mixtures exhibit superior interfacial activity, which may promote the application of Gemini surfactant.
Medical board transparency regarding physician sexual misconduct: Two years post–policy updates
Authors: Bruce Madeline J. , Acierno Ron
Published: November 2022

Recent years have seen increased attention to and motivation for addressing sexual violence. Physician sexual misconduct (PSM) represents a significant violation and abuse of power, with consequences for both patients and public trust in medicine. In the United States, the Federation of State Medical Boards released updated policies in 2020 imploring increased transparency and stronger punishments for PSM cases. This brief report presents an assessment of how transparent medical board websites are in disclosing PSM now 2 years after this policy paper. We reviewed the websites for all 50 states and Washington, DC, to examine how easily a consumer could find a list of board orders, profiles of licensees, and PSM case summaries. In total, 24 states provided a list of orders, and 21 states provided case summaries. Many barriers to finding clearly discussed PSM‐related information remain, including many outdated licensee profiles. Ideas for continued efforts to document and discuss PSM to help foster evidence‐based policy recommendations are presented.
Diaphragmatic Ultrasound Predictors of High‐Flow Nasal Cannula Therapeutic Failure in Critically Ill Patients With SARS‐CoV‐2 Pneumonia
Authors: Bruna Mario , Hidalgo Gabriela , Castañeda Sebastian , Galvez Miguel , Bravo Diego , Benitez Rodrigo , Tobar Rodolfo , Quevedo José , Rodríguez José , Murua Camila , Madariaga Rafael , Benavides Claudia , Huilcaman Marcos , Martinez Felipe , Retamal Jaime , Kattan Eduardo
Published: November 2022

Objectives

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is frequently used in patients with acute respiratory failure, but there is limited evidence regarding predictors of therapeutic failure. The objective of this study was to assess diaphragmatic ultrasound criteria as predictors of failure to HFNC, defined as the need for orotracheal intubation or death.

Methods

Prospective cohort study including adult patients consecutively admitted to the critical care unit, from July 24 to October 20, 2020, with respiratory failure secondary to SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia who required HFNC. After 12 hours of HFNC initiation we measured ROX index (ratio of SpO2/FiO2 to respiratory rate), excursion and diaphragmatic contraction speed (diaphragmatic excursion/inspiratory time) by ultrasound, both in supine and prone position.

Results

In total, 41 patients were analyzed, 25 succeeded and 16 failed HFNC therapy. At 12 hours, patients who succeeded HFNC therapy presented higher ROX index in supine position (9.8 [9.1–15.6] versus 5.4 [3.9–6.8], P < .01), and higher PaO2/FiO2 ratio (186 [135–236] versus 117 [103–162] mmHg, P = .03). To predict therapeutic failure, the supine diaphragmatic contraction speed presented sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 57%, while the ROX index presented a sensitivity of 92.8% and a specificity of 75%.

Conclusions

Diaphragmatic contraction speed by ultrasound emerges as a diagnostic complement to clinical tools to predict HFNC success. Future studies should confirm these results.
Quality assessment of shrub observation data based on TLS: A case of revegetated shrubland, Southern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Tian Jiarong , Li Haidong , Sun Xinyu , Zhou Youfeng , Ma Weibo , Chen Junsong , Zhang Jing , Xu Yannan
Published: November 2022

Vegetation restoration is one of the effective measures to deal with land degradation, and shrubs, as the pioneer plants, can improve soil conditions and accelerate the recovery of desertification. In recent decades, single‐scan (SS) and multiple‐scan (MS) modes have been widely used for forest inventories by terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) but TLS‐based shrub observation, and data quality uncertainties are less studied, especially in eco‐fragile regions with high survey costs and harsh environmental conditions. In this study, two shrub sample plots with different topographic characteristics were selected as the study area in the southern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau. We compared the basic phenotypic parameters (BPPs) under SS and MS mode, including number (N), height (H) and crown width (CW), to evaluate the potential of SS mode in extracting vegetation attributes. Through the distribution of shrub information loss rate (L) with distance and shrub height, the limitations of SS mode in obtaining data were discussed. By combining the topographic features of scanning spots, topographic relief (T) and L, we provided reasonable opinions on TLS collection mode, setting of scanning spots, and other operational aspects. The results indicated that: (1) SS mode has good applicability in shrub observation under different terrain characteristics. (2) The height distribution of the shrub is the main factor affecting the quality of data collection, and the information loss bias caused by distance should be considered only in the shrub plots with uniform height distribution. (3) T has an impact on shrub growth but has no effect on the quality of data acquisition (no significant correlation between T and L). These findings will provide technical support for TLS data collection on ecological restoration of degraded grassland dunes.
Regional pedicled flap salvage options for large head and neck defects: The old, the new, and the forgotten
Authors: Chang Brent A. , Asarkar Ameya A. , Horwich Peter M. , Nathan Cherie Ann O. , Hayden Richard E.
Published: November 2022

Objectives

The objective of this article is to review options for regional pedicled reconstruction for large head and neck defects in a salvage setting.

Methods

Relevant regional pedicled flaps were identified and reviewed. Expert opinion and supporting literature were used to summarize and describe the available options.

Results

Specific regional pedicled flap options are presented including the pectoralis major flap, deltopectoral flap, supraclavicular flap, submental flap, latissimus flap, and trapezius flap.

Conclusions

Regional pedicled flaps are useful options in a salvage setting even for large defects and should be in the armamentarium of any reconstructive head and neck surgeon. Each flap option carries specific characteristics and considerations.
Not just a carrier: Clinical presentation and management of patients with heterozygous disease‐causing alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) variants identified through expanded carrier screening
Authors: Beck Natalie M. , Sagaser Katelynn G. , Lawson Cathleen S. , Hertenstein Christine , Jachens Ashley , Forster Katherine R. , Miller Kristen A. , Jelin Angie C. , Blakemore Karin J. , Hoover‐Fong Julie
Published: November 2022

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is an underrecognized, complex bone mineralization disorder with variable manifestations caused by one or two deleterious variants in the alkaline phosphatase (ALPL) gene. Expanded carrier screening (ECS), inclusive of ALPL, intends to inform reproductive risk but may incidentally reveal an HPP diagnosis with 50% familial risks. We sought to investigate at‐risk individuals and develop a multidisciplinary referral and evaluation protocol for ECS‐identified ALPL heterozygosity. A retrospective database query of ECS results from 8 years to 1 month for heterozygous pathogenic/likely pathogenic ALPL variants was completed. We implemented a clinical protocol for diagnostic testing and imaging, counseling, and interdisciplinary care management for identified patients, and outcomes were documented. Heterozygous ALPL variants were identified in 12/2248 unrelated patients undergoing ECS (0.53%; heterozygote frequency 1/187). Of 10 individuals successfully contacted, all demonstrated symptomatology and/or alkaline phosphatase values consistent with HPP. ECS may reveal incidental health risks, including recognition of missed HPP diagnoses in ALPL heterozygotes. In our cohort, all ECS‐identified ALPL heterozygotes with clinical and/or biochemical data available demonstrated features of HPP. Referral to a genetics professional familiar with HPP is indicated for family history assessment, genetic counseling, cascade testing, and long‐term bone health management.
The impact of preoperative nutrition status on abdominal surgery outcomes: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kanemoto Maki , Ida Mitsuru , Naito Yusuke , Kawaguchi Masahiko
Published: November 2022

Background

The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism recommends nutrition screening using the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short‐Form (MNA‐SF) in older adult patients preoperatively. However, the association of nutrition condition with postoperative complications is poorly documented. We aimed to identify preoperative nutrition status using the MNA‐SF and to determine whether preoperative nutrition status affects postoperative outcomes.

Methods

Inpatients aged ≥55 years who underwent elective abdominal surgery under general anesthesia between April 1, 2016, and December 28, 2018, were included. We assessed nutrition status using the MNA‐SF before surgery. Multiple logistic regression including the MNA‐SF score was applied to determine associated factors with our primary outcome, postoperative complications defined as Clavien‐Dindo classification ≥3a. Secondary outcomes including length of hospital stay and unplanned readmission were compared between normal, at risk, and malnourished patients.

Results

The data of 1248 patients with a mean age of 69 years were analyzed. The prevalence of at risk and malnutrition was 33.0% (412 of 1248) and 6.9% (87 of 1248), respectively. Overall, 12.4% (155 of 1248) had major postoperative complications, and the MNA‐SF score was a significant predictor (odds ratio: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.86–0.99) after adjusting for confounders. Patients at risk of malnutrition and those with malnutrition had a longer hospital length of postoperative stay than normal patients (P = 0.001); however, there was no statistical significance in unplanned readmission rate between the three groups (P = 0.14).

Conclusion

Preoperative nutrition disorder was common, and it affected postoperative adverse outcomes. The MNA‐SF score was associated with major postoperative complications.
A parameterized extended shift‐splitting preconditioner for nonsymmetric saddle point problems
Authors: Vakili Seryas , Ebadi Ghodrat , Vuik Cornelis
Published: November 2022

In this article, a parameterized extended shift‐splitting (PESS) method and its induced preconditioner are given for solving nonsingular and nonsymmetric saddle point problems with nonsymmetric positive definite (1,1) part. The convergence analysis of the iteration method is discussed. The distribution of eigenvalues of the preconditioned matrix is provided. A number of experiments are given to verify the efficiency of the method for solving nonsymmetric saddle‐point problems.
Exercise capacity and its determinants among postcardiac rehabilitation patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Chair Sek Ying , Leung Kai Chi , Lo Sally Wai Sze , Wang Qun , Sit Janet Wing Hung , Leung Sui Yuen , Cheng Ho Yu
Published: November 2022

Aim

To investigate the determinants of exercise capacity in postcardiac rehabilitation patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

Design

A cross‐sectional design was used.

Methods

This study analysed the cross‐sectional data from the baseline assessment of 130 CHD patients who participated in a longitudinal randomized controlled trial of music‐paced physical activity intervention for CHD patients (ChiCTR‐IOR‐17011015) (September 2017 to February 2019). Exercise capacity was measured by using the 10‐metre incremental shuttle‐walk test. The amount of physical activity, exercise self‐determination and exercise self‐efficacy were measured by validated instruments. Participants' anthropometric parameters (body mass index, body fat mass percentage and waist circumference) were measured. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to identify the factors influencing exercise capacity.

Results

The mean incremental shuttle‐walk test distance was 493.00 ± 180.04 m. The factors significantly associated with exercise capacity were age (β = −.42), female (β = −.35), body mass index (β = −.25) and exercise self‐efficacy (β = −.20). These factors accounted for 56.5% of the total variance of exercise capacity.
A stabilizer‐free weak Galerkin finite element method to variable‐order time fractional diffusion equation in multiple space dimensions
Authors: Ma Jie , Gao Fuzheng , Du Ning
Published: November 2022

We study a fully‐discrete stabilizer‐free weak Galerkin (SFWG) finite element method for the initial‐boundary value problem of variable‐order Caputo time‐fractional diffusion equation. Optimal convergence order in norm for fully‐discrete SFWG scheme is obtained. Furthermore, we develop a fast evaluation algorithm to improve the computational efficiency. Numerical experiments are performed to verify theoretical results.
Time dependent subgrid multiscale stabilized finite element analysis of fully coupled transient Navier–Stokes‐transport model
Authors: Kumar B. V. Rathish , Chowdhury Manisha
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a fully coupled system of transient Navier–Stokes fluid flow model and unsteady variable coefficient advection–diffusion–reaction transport model has been studied through subgrid multiscale stabilized finite element method. In particular algebraic approach of approximating the subscales has been considered to arrive at the stabilized variational formulation of the coupled system and standard expressions for the stabilization parameters have been proposed. The unknown subgrid scales are considered to be time dependent. The consideration of the fluid viscosity coefficient depending upon the concentration of the solute mass makes this coupling strong. Fully implicit backward Euler scheme has been employed for time discretization. Stability analysis of the stabilized formulation has been conducted. Furthermore detailed derivations of both and error estimates for the stabilized finite element scheme have been carried out. The performance of the proposed scheme is validated for benchmark problems as well as the credibility of the stabilized method is also established well through various numerical experiments.
Topotactical Route to Multiwalled Cerium Oxide Nanotubes from MWCNTs
Authors: Pacheco‐Espinoza Sarahi , Cuesta‐Balderas Alejandro I. , Vázquez‐Lujano Jorge , Rosiles‐Aguilera Abril , Hernández‐Pérez María A. , Cervantes‐Sodi Felipe , Chen Fei , Shen Qiang , Tu Rong , Vargas‐García Jorge R. , Zhang Lian‐Meng
Published: November 2022

The development of new strategies for synthesizing 1D cerium oxide (CeO2) hollow nanostructures has attracted much attention in recent years due to the importance of their superior properties and highly anisotropic geometry. This study reports an unpublished route of fabricating novel multiwalled CeO2‐δ nanotubes (CeO2‐δ NTs) in which the entire volume of functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (f‐MWCNTs) is converted into the CeO2‐δ pseudomorph through oxidation and dehydration topotactic reactions. The stable CeO2‐δ (111) planes are topotactically grown on the curved C (002) planes, preferentially exposed along the nanotube axis. In their initial condition, the novel nanotubes consist of Ce oxyhydroxide (CeO2‐x(OH)x) with residual carbon. When heating the air up to 500 °C, CeO2‐x(OH)x transforms gradually by dehydration into CeO2‐δ, while the residual carbon is oxidized. Despite compositional changes, nanotubes maintain their multiwalled structural integrity up to ≈550 °C. The CeO2‐δ NTs exhibit an unusually high presence of Ce3+ ions and surface O vacancies, contributing to a low direct band gap ranging from 2.67 to 2.32 eV compared to their NPs counterparts (3.2 eV).
Reproducibility of Biomolecular Corona Experiments: A Primer for Reliable Results
Authors: Giulimondi Francesca , Quagliarini Erica , Digiacomo Luca , Renzi Serena , Palmieri Valentina , Papi Massimiliano , Pozzi Daniela , Caracciolo Giulio
Published: November 2022

The biomolecular corona is a key component controlling the identity of nanomaterials in physiological environments. Studies aimed at identifying factors shaping the biomolecular corona have proliferated in the last decade but have been performed by research groups with different backgrounds. Efforts made within the scientific community to guarantee the reproducibility of experimental data have identified protocol standardization as an indispensable step for advancing knowledge in this arena. To contribute to fulfill this gap, here the relevance of interoperator variability in biomolecular corona studies and the benefits arising from automated systems usage are explored. Moreover, the role of molecular crowding during nanoparticle‐biofluid incubation and the effect of washing the pellet during corona isolation are thoroughly investigated. It is believed that the findings will help researchers enhance the accuracy of experimental design and reporting.
Association of adenotonsillectomy with wheezing episodes in childhood: A secondary analysis of the Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial
Authors: Castro‐Rodriguez Jose A. , Biancardi Fiorella , Padilla Oslando , Beckhaus Andrea A. , Tapia Ignacio E.
Published: November 2022

Background

Observational studies suggest that asthma/wheezing improves after adenotonsillectomy (AT). However, there is a paucity of randomized clinical trial (RCT) specifically studying the effects of AT in asthma/wheezing. Therefore, we conducted a post‐hoc analysis of the Childhood Adenotonsillectomy Trial (CHAT), the largest RCT of AT in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) to test the hypothesis that AT would result in fewer wheezing episodes.

Methods

In the CHAT study, 464 children with OSA, aged 5–9 years, were randomized to early AT (n = 226) or watchful waiting with supportive care (WWSC) (n = 227). For this post‐hoc analysis, children were categorized as having “any wheezing” versus “no wheezing” at baseline and at 7 months of follow‐up. A multivariate analysis was conducted to evaluate the association between “any wheezing” at follow‐up and treatment group after controlling for several potential confounders.

Results

Children in the “any wheezing” group were predominantly black, had more allergic rhinitis, eczema, second‐hand smoke exposure, body mass index, apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), and had lower maternal education and family income than those in the “no wheezing group.” In the AT arm, the prevalence of wheezing significantly decreased from baseline to follow‐up (at 7 months of the intervention) (47% vs. 21.6%, p < 0.001); while in the WWSC arms did not change (45.2% vs. 43.1%, p = 0.67). In the multivariate analysis, second‐hand smoke exposure, wheezing at baseline, and belong to WWSC arm (odds ratio: 3.65 [2.16–6.19]) increase the risk of wheezing at follow‐up.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that AT decreased the risk of wheezing at 7 months of follow‐up.
Two effective models based on comprehensive lipidomics and metabolomics can distinguish BC versus HCs, and TNBC versus non‐TNBC
Authors: Jin Yu , Fan Shuoqing , Jiang Wenna , Zhang Jingya , Yang Lexin , Xiao Jiawei , An Haohua , Ren Li
Published: November 2022

Background

Lipidomics and metabolomics are closely related to tumor phenotypes, and serum lipoprotein subclasses and small‐molecule metabolites are considered as promising biomarkers for breast cancer (BC) diagnosis. This study aimed to explore potential biomarker models based on lipidomic and metabolomic analysis that could distinguish BC from healthy controls (HCs) and triple‐negative BC (TNBC) from non‐TNBC.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 114 patients with BC and 75 HCs. A total of 112 types of lipoprotein subclasses and 30 types of small‐molecule metabolites in the serum were detected by 1H‐NMR. All lipoprotein subclasses and small‐molecule metabolites were subjected to a three‐step screening process in the order of significance (p < 0.05), univariate regression (p < 0.1), and lasso regression (nonzero coefficient). Discriminant models of BC versus HCs and TNBC versus non‐TNBC were established using binary logistic regression.

Results

We developed a valid discriminant model based on three‐biomarker panel (formic acid, TPA2, and L6TG) that could distinguish patients with BC from HCs. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.999 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.995–1.000) and 0.990 (95% CI: 0.959–1.000) in the training and validation sets, respectively. Based on the panel (D‐dimer, CA15‐3, CEA, L5CH, glutamine, and ornithine), a discriminant model was established to differentiate between TNBC and non‐TNBC, with AUC of 0.892 (95% CI: 0.778–0.967) and 0.905 (95% CI: 0.754–0.987) in the training and validation sets, respectively.

Conclusion

This study revealed lipidomic and metabolomic differences between BC versus HCs and TNBC versus non‐TNBC. Two validated discriminatory models established against lipidomic and metabolomic differences can accurately distinguish BC from HCs and TNBC from non‐TNBC.

Impact

Two validated discriminatory models can be used for early BC screening and help BC patients avoid time‐consuming, expensive, and dangerous BC screening.