bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract WP51: Portable Stroke Detection In A Comprehensive Stroke Center: Pilot Deployment Of The Cerebrotech Visor
Authors: Chennareddy Susmita , Kalagara Roshini , Smith Colton , Matsoukas Stavros , Kellner Christopher P
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with worse outcomes associated with increased time-to-treatment. As stroke subtypes are currently not confirmed until in-hospital imaging, portable stroke detection technology can reduce time to stroke diagnosis and treatment. The Cerebrotech Visor is an FDA-approved portable bioimpedance device that has been shown to differentiate severe stroke from minor stroke. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy of the Visor device in severe stroke detection in patients presenting as acute stroke codes.

Methods:
All patients presenting to the emergency department and receiving a stroke code at two hospitals from November 2020 to July 2021 were eligible. Trained operators completed device scans on eligible patients. The device functioned by detecting asymmetry in bioimpedance over a range of wavelengths to provide an algorithmically derived score. Visor scores, time to scan, and in-hospital imaging findings were recorded prospectively in a quality assurance database. T-tests were performed.

Results:
Eighty-seven patient scans were attempted. Patients without successful scans, due to reasons like patient motion and low patient tolerance of the device, were excluded. Patients with underlying diseases noted in scan comments that would alter the baseline brain landscape, such as advanced dementia, were also excluded. In total, 78 patients were included, with a mean age of 69.2 years (σ = 14.3). Scans were most frequently performed in the emergency department and took an average of 105.6 seconds. Using CT data, patients were divided into two groups based on normal or abnormal CT findings. Patients with abnormal CT results have significantly higher Visor scores (8.56 vs 7.11, p = 0.0495).

Conclusion:
The Cerebrotech Visor is a portable stroke detection device with the ability to detect alterations in brain bioimpedance in under 2 minutes. Though a large-scale validation study must be performed to assess the accuracy of the device to diagnose specific neurologic conditions, this pilot series of patients undergoing assessment as acute stroke codes demonstrates that this device may provide a rapid method for the in-hospital triage of severe stroke, reducing time-to-treatment for these patients.
Abstract WP53: Highly Visible Wall-timer To Reduce Endovascular Treatment Time For Stroke
Authors: Khazaal Ossama , Cristancho Daniel , Grodinsky Emily , Dawood Judy , Atsina Kofi-Buaku , Ji Jonathon Y , Neuhaus-booth Elizabeth , Ramchand Preethi , Pukenas Bryan A , Hurst Robert W , Kung David , Choudhri Omar , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Kasner Scott , Favilla Christopher G
Published: February 2022

Background and Purpose:
Endovascular therapy for acute ischemic stroke has revolutionized clinical care for stroke patients with large vessel occlusion (LVO), but treatment remains time sensitive. At our stroke center, up to half of the door-to-groin time is accounted for after the patient arrives in the neuro-interventional radiology (NIR) suite. Here we apply the concept of a highly visible timer in the NIR suite to quantify the impact on endovascular treatment time in stroke patients with LVO.

Methods:
This was a single-center prospective pseudo-randomized study conducted over a 32-week period (September 14, 2020 through April 25, 2021). Pseudo-randomization was achieved by turning the timer on and off in 2-week intervals. The primary outcome and secondary outcomes were reduction in IR to groin time and 90-day mRS, respectively. We also performed a stratified analysis based on anesthesia status for the procedure along with a multivariate regression to evaluate the effect of the intervention on treatment time while accounting for endotracheal intubation.

Results:
During the 32-week study period, 97 mechanical thrombectomies were performed. The timer was ON and OFF for 38 and 59 cases, respectively. The timer resulted in a reduction in IR-to-groin time (27.7 mins vs 32.6 mins; p=0.02). Endotracheal intubation (80% of overall cohort) was associated with a longer NIR-to-groin time (33 mins vs 23 mins; p<0.05). Among patients that underwent intubation, the timer resulted in a reduction in IR-to-intubation time (29.5 mins vs 34.4 mins; p=0.03). After adjusting for intubation status in a multivariate regression, the timer was associated with a 5-minute reduction in IR-to-Groin time (p=0.02). There was no difference in the 90-day mRS between both groups.

Conclusions:
A highly visible timer in the NIR suite achieved a meaningful, albeit modest, reduction in endovascular treatment time for stroke patients with LVO. A larger study would be necessary to measure a potential impact on long-term functional outcome, and a multi-center study may be necessary to confirm generalizability. However, based on these results, the lack of risk, and low cost, it is reasonable for stroke centers to consider using a highly visible timer in the NIR suite to improve stroke treatment times.
Abstract WP58: Telestroke Assessment Of Acute Monocular Visual Loss Fails To Routinely Diagnose Retinal Artery Occlusion And Recommend Thrombolytic Therapy
Authors: Dumitrascu Oana M , Harahsheh Ehab , Pahl Emily , O'Caroll Cumara , Demaerschalk Bart M
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is a neurovascular emergency and acute monocular visual loss should trigger a stroke code activation. As thrombolytic therapy is considered for non-arteritic CRAO in the stroke therapeutic window, we aimed to review all telestroke encounters for acute visual loss in Mayo Clinic national telestroke network, focusing on the ocular diagnosis and the management recommendations.

Hypothesis:
patients evaluated via telestroke for acute visual loss are less likely to receive thrombolysis

Methods:
We conducted a retrospective review of the Mayo Clinic Arizona Telestroke/Teleneurology (2010-2017, 6364 encounters) and Mayo Clinic Enterprise Telestroke databases (2018-2020, 3147 encounters), searching for visits requested for acute visual loss. We recorded the subjects’ demographics, time from last seen normal to telestroke evaluation, preliminary diagnosis, and therapeutic/diagnostic recommendation.

Results:
From a total of 9511 audio-video telestroke encounters, 49 (0.51%) had an ocular diagnosis. Out of those, 6 patients (12.2%) had a provisional diagnosis of CRAO. 4/6 (66.6%) CRAO patients presented within 4.5h from symptom onset (median 2 hours) and none received thrombolytic therapy. All telestroke physicians recommended antiplatelet, ophthalmology consultation for diagnostic evaluation and comprehensive stroke work-up.

Conclusions:
Telestroke evaluations for CRAO, in routine practice, are less common than the disease prevalence would predict, suggesting that education is urgently mandated to increase the index of awareness. Even when CRAO subjects are evaluated via telestroke within 4.5 hours from symptom onset, they do not receive thrombolytic therapy nor timely ophthalmologic evaluation. Telestroke visits may benefit from the inclusion of tele-ophthalmologic consults to help with establishing the diagnosis in the narrow time-window of intravenous thrombolysis.
Abstract WP6: Recovery To Baseline Function In Patients With Acute Stroke And Pre-existing Disability: A Natural History Study
Authors: Vigilante Nicholas F , Kamen Scott , Shannon Ryan , Thau Lauren , Butler Miriam , Oak Solomon , Zhang Linda , Hester Taryn , Thon Jesse , Siegler James E
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
One in 3 strokes occur in patients with pre-stroke disability. This excludes many from acute treatment trials, but whether these patients benefit from aggressive treatment is unknown.

Methods:
A prospective stroke center registry (10/2019-04/2021) of consecutive adult patients with acute stroke was queried for patients with pre-stroke modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of 0-4. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate odds of full functional recovery (FFR) at 90 days (mRS 0-2 or return to pre-stroke mRS), comparing those with significant pre-stroke disability (mRS 3, 4) to those without (mRS 0-2).

Results:
Of 1228 patients, 1190 (97%) had pre-stroke mRS 0-4, with 856 (70%) included patients also having 90d follow-up mRS. The median age was 68y (IQR 59-78), with a median NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) of 5 (IQR 2-17). Compared to those with mRS 0-2 (n=722), patients with a pre-stroke mRS of 3 (n=96) or 4 (n=38) had more frequent comorbidities and were less likely to achieve FFR (Table). After multivariable adjustment, the odds of FFR was no less for patients with prestroke mRS of 3 (ORadj 1.37, 95%CI 0.80-2.34) or 4 (ORadj 0.59, 95%CI 0.25-1.39). In that model, FFR was less likely among the elderly (ORadj per year 0.96, 95%CI 0.95-0.97) and higher NIHSS (ORadj per point 0.89, 95%CI 0.88-0.91). Thrombolysis was strongly associated with FFR (ORadj 2.70, 95%CI 1.59-4.60).

Conclusions:
In this single center analysis, stroke recovery in the setting of pre-existing disability was driven by age and stroke severity. Thrombolysis remained predictive of FFR irrespective of age and stroke severity, but was underutilized in patients with pre-stroke disability.
Abstract WP68: Clinical Characteristics And Inpatient Rehabilitation Outcomes In Patients With Posterior Circulation Strokes
Authors: Parekh Maria A , Silos Christin N , Savitz Sean I
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Posterior circulation strokes (PCS) are considered to have poor outcomes with high mortality and morbidity, but comparisons of functional outcome with anterior circulation strokes (ACS) have yielded conflicting results. Differences in demographics, cardiovascular risk factors and stroke etiology have been proposed, with ischemic PCS patients tending to be younger, more often male, and more frequently diabetic.

Objectives:
Describe the clinicodemographic profile and functional outcomes in PCS patients admitted to inpatient rehabilitation (IPR), and identify factors associated with functional change.

Methods:
A retrospective review of a database maintained on consecutive stroke patients admitted to IPR at Memorial Hermann-TIRR between 2017 and 2019 was conducted. Demographics, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores, and discharge disposition of 806 patients were assessed. Table 1 displays significance testing by univariate analysis. Baseline characteristics, pre-stroke mRS, NIHSS, admit FIM, and length of stay (LOS) in IPR were adjusted in regression models.

Results and Conclusions:
Results are summarized in Table 1. Diabetes and prior stroke or TIA occurred in higher percentages of patients with PCS, or concurrent ACS/PCS. NIHSS was higher in ACS patients with a mean of 9.6 (SD 7.1, p<0.001) and median of 6 with IQR of 11. Total FIM score on admission to IPR was 53.3 (SD 16.5) for PCS compared to 46.6 (SD 16.9, p<0.001) in ACS patients. Motor FIM score change was 28.6 (SD 12.2) in PCS compared to 27.2 (SD 12.8) in ACS. Adjusting for baseline variables of admit FIM, NIHSS and LOS, we found no significant differences in total or motor FIM change between the groups from admission to discharge. There was no greater odds for improvement on total or motor FIM for ACS compared to PCS.

In summary, patients with PCS and ACS respond similarly to rehab therapy as captured on the FIM score, with a higher amount of therapy associated with better improvement.
Abstract WP69: Prediction Of 90 Day Stroke Recovery In A Post-thrombectomy Population
Authors: Frandsen Clint , Sharma Anuja , de Havenon Adam H , Alexander Matthew D , Dibella Edward V
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Treatments for stroke developed in the last decade, such as thrombectomy, have improved patient outcomes. However, these treatments do not guarantee stroke recovery and many patients still need additional treatment to recover. Identifying the expected degree of recovery would help inform patient planning and improve personalized care.

Methods:
Retrospective patient information from 54 emergent thrombectomy patients, including hemorrhagic infarction, and diffusion parameters from their clinical diffusion MRI scan (1.5T, 20 directions, b=2000, NEX=2) were analysed in a multivariable logistic regression with the outcome of identifying favorable outcomes, score 0-2, of their modified Rankin Score (mRS) at 90 days. Models using patient information and imaging data were generated and compared.

Results:
Using stepwise regression, gender and a 24 hour NIHSS score were identified as the best patient information for indicating mRS at 90 days, while mean difference of the ipsilesional and contralesional motor track regions for fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), and orientation dispersion index (ODI) were the best imaging indicators for mRS at 90 days. The model from a multivariable logistic regression analysis of patient information gave a predictive model with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.83 and confidence interval (CI) of 0.69 to 0.93 whereas a model using patient imaging data had an AUC of 0.93 and CI of 0.83 to 0.98. Combining both patient information and imaging data produced a model with an AUC of 0.95 and CI of 0.86 to 0.98.

Conclusions:
Patient information, imaging data, and combined create models for a post-thrombectomy cohort with good AUCs ranging from 0.83 to 0.95 for prediction of 90 day mRS . This initial study shows promising results that these models can be predictive in a heterogeneous post thrombectomy population.
Abstract WP74: An Automated, Electronic Health Record-based Algorithm To Classify Ischemic Stroke Etiology
Authors: Sharma Richa , Lee Ho-Joon , Schwamm Lee H , Kamel Hooman , Sansing Lauren H , Kim Jennifer , Zhao Hongyu , Krumholz Harlan M , Sharma Richa
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Determining acute ischemic stroke (AIS) etiology is central to secondary stroke prevention, but can be diagnostically challenging. We built a stroke etiology classification model using electronic health record (EHR) data from non-cryptogenic AIS hospitalization encounters.

Methods:
We studied discharge summaries of non-cryptogenic AIS patients hospitalized at 2 academic, Comprehensive Stroke Centers from 2015-2020. The outcome was stroke etiology encoded in each institution’s stroke registry, abstracted from the discharge attending’s impression. We engineered variables including 1) clinical features from Unified Medical Language System concepts identified by a text mining tool,
MetaMap
, and 2) neuroimaging, echocardiographic, and laboratory features by regular expression operations. XGBoost classifier models were generated (80% training set, 20% testing set). A grid search of 36 model parameter value combinations and 10-fold cross validation were performed. We assessed variable importance in the optimized algorithm by calculating each feature’s Shapley value, the absolute value of the variable’s mean impact in predicting each specific stroke etiology.

Results:
The cohort was comprised of 1,993 patients (mean age 69 years, 55% male). We engineered a total of 2,004 features. Mean cross-validated accuracies of the best model in the training and validation sets were: 73.0% and 65.5%, respectively. Validation precision, recall, and F1 weighted scores were 66.2%, 65.5%, and 64.1% (mean cross-validated). The top 20 features contributing to etiology prediction are in Figure 1.

Conclusion:
We developed an EHR-based, automated tool to replicate a discharging attending’s stroke etiology diagnosis in non-cyptogenic patients. With further training in representative cohorts of non-cryptogenic and cryptogenic patients with an eventually diagnosed etiology, this algorithm may aide stroke etiology diagnosis before hospital discharge.
Abstract WP75: Sex Differences In The Outcomes Of Intravenous Thrombolysis In Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients With Preadmission Use Of Antiplatelet Agents: A Population-based Study In The Swiss Stroke Registry
Authors: Noseda Roberta , Rea Federico , Pagnamenta Alberto , Bianco Giovanni , Sihabdeen Shairin , agazzi pamela , Seiffge David , Michel Patrik , Nedeltchev Krassen , Bonati Leo , Kägi Georg , Niederhauser Julien , Nyffeler Thomas , Luft Andreas , Schelosky Ludwig , Medlin Friedrich , Rodic Biljana , Peters Nils , Renaud Susanne , Mono Marie-Luise , Carrera Emmanuel , Fischer Urs , Ceschi Professor Alessandro , Cereda Carlo W
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
This study aimed to evaluate whether patient sex modifies the association between preadmission use of antiplatelet agents (APAs) and safety and efficacy outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

Methods:
Cohort study from the Swiss Stroke Registry of consecutive patients with AIS treated with IVT stratified according to sex and assessed for preadmission use of APAs in multivariate logistic regression models. The primary safety outcome was in-hospital symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (sICH). The primary efficacy outcome was functional independence (FI) at 3 months after discharge. Secondary efficacy outcomes included favourable functional outcome (FFO), modified Rankin Scale score shift analysis, survival with high disability or death at 3 months.

Results:
Study cohort included 4996 patients, 2124 women (43%) and 2872 men (57%). Women were older than men (79 vs 71 years,
P
<0.0001). Comparable proportions of women (39.9%) and men (40.4%) used APAs before admission (single or dual,
P
=0.74). Preadmission use of dual APAs was associated with higher odds of in-hospital sICH (adjOR 2.89, 95%CI 1.15-7.29), with a statistically significant trend from single to dual APAs (
P
=0.02). No interaction was found between preadmission use of either single or dual APAs and patient sex (
P
=0.89 and
P
=0.21, respectively). Men had significantly higher chances of 3-month FI (adjOR 1.34, 95%CI 1.09-1.65), better outcomes across all levels of disability and mortality (adjOR 0.86, 95%CI 0.75-0.99). We found no sex differences in FFO and severe disability or death at 3 months after discharge (adjOR 1.15, 95%CI 0.96-1.36 and adjOR 1.11, 95%CI 0.79-1.55, respectively). We found no interaction between patient sex and preadmission use of either single or dual APAs for any of the secondary efficacy outcomes.

Conclusions:
Female sex was associated with more unfavourable 3-month efficacy outcomes than male sex after IVT. Even though preadmission use of dual APAs was associated with increased odds of in-hospital sICH, sex-gender differences in 3-month efficacy outcomes apparently were not explained by a sex-specific mechanism related to preadmission use of APAs.
Abstract WP90: Upgrading To Endovascular Thrombectomy Performing Hospitals Increases Overall Acute Ischemic Stroke Admissions
Authors: Salazar-Marioni Sergio , Kim Youngran , Tariq Muhammad B , Abdelkhaleq Rania , Niktabe Arash , McCullough Louise , Sheth Sunil A
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
Given the impact of endovascular therapy (EVT) on clinical outcomes and usage of pre-hospital bypass protocols to route acute ischemic stroke (AIS) patients with suspected large vessel occlusion (LVO) to EVT-performing hospitals (EPH), there is substantial interest in upgrading stroke center certification to become comprehensive centers. Here, we assess the effect of becoming EPH on total AIS and non-LVO AIS admissions in four hospitals in a large urban area.

Methods:
From our prospectively collected multi-institutional registry, we identified all consecutive patients with AIS at four EPHs between Nov 2017 - May 2019. Three of the EPHs (named EPH 1, EPH 2, EPH 3) became EPHs in early 2017, which allowed for preferential routing and pre-hospital bypassing of other non-EPH hospitals by regional emergency medical services protocols. Another EPH (named original EPH) had been an EPH for many years. The primary outcome was the volume of AIS admissions after upgrading to a EPH over time and was determined by linear regression.

Results:
Among 3,727 patients with AIS presenting to 4 hospitals across the Houston area, median age was 67 [IQR 57-78], 48% were female, median NIHSS was 5 [IQR 2-12], 21% had LVO, 11% underwent EST. AIS admissions increased at EPH 1 at a rate of 15 AIS per quarter (95% CI 5.5-25.3, p=0.012); EPH 2 increased at a rate of 8 AIS per quarter (95% CI 3.18 - 13.44, p=0.011); EPH 3 increased at a rate of 10 AIS per quarter (95% CI 2.4-18.6, p=0.023) AIS admissions at the original EPH did not change significantly during the study period (CI 0-11.9, p=0.47). Increases in AIS admissions were predominantly in non-LVO AIS (Figure A).

Conclusions:
In this observational cohort study, upgrading to EPH status resulted in continuously increasing AIS admissions over time, particularly for non-LVO patients; this growth was not observed in established EPH. These findings demonstrate and quantify the effect of upgrading stroke center certification on inpatient AIS volumes.
Abstract WP93: An Internet Of Things Based Real Time Location System With Machine Learning For Coordination Of Acute Stroke Endovascular Intervention: A Proof-of-concept Study
Authors: Lim Dee Zhen , Xu Edward , Yeo Melissa , Dahan Ariel , Tahayori Bahman , Kok Hong Kuan , Abbasi-Rad Mohammed , Maingard Julian , Kutaiba Numan , Russell Jeremy , Thijs Vincent , Jhamb Ashu , Chandra Ronil , Brooks Mark , Barras Christen , Asadi Hamed
Published: February 2022

Introduction:
The delivery of mechanical thrombectomy in acute stroke can be challenging because it requires coordination between patient travel and multiple stroke team members across different locations in the hospital. A Real Time Location System (RTLS) can facilitate a streamlined workflow by determining a patient’s location, but the required infrastructure can be costly to set up. We investigated the feasibility of a machine learning based RTLS using an Internet Of Things (IOT) device prototype to coordinate acute stroke endovascular intervention.

Methods:
In this proof-of-concept study, study investigators programmed an IOT device to collect WiFi signals from different hospital zones relevant to the mechanical thrombectomy workflow. Different machine learning (ML) algorithms were trained on location labelled training WiFi signals to predict location. The accuracies of the different ML algorithms to predict unlabeled testing WiFi signals collected on a separate day were measured, in percentages.

Results:
The training and testing datasets contained 1,179 and 293 samples respectively, with 2,516 and 2,618 unique WiFi signals detected in each dataset. The trained neural network, random forest, support vector machine, K-nearest neighbors, decision tree and ensemble classifiers achieved accuracies of 96.6%, 96.2%, 97.3%, 97.3%, 83.6% and 97.3% on the testing dataset respectively. Additionally, the neural network model produced estimates of uncertainty, which were significantly associated with the correctness of predictions based on logistic regression analysis (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:
An IOT based real time location system with machine learning can accurately predict locations within the hospital, demonstrating immense potential for the future applications of streamlining delivery of acute stroke endovascular intervention.
Abstract WP95: Acute Stroke Simulation Training For General Medical Trainees: Busting Clots, Myths And Fears
Authors: Wilson Elisabeth A , Archer Ann J , Courtney Eleanor S , Woodman Caroline K , Smith Elizabeth , Holmes Clare A , Abidakun Oladotun A
Published: February 2022

Background:
Acute stroke assessment and management is a time critical process. The emergency “stroke call” should include a standardised NIHSS assessment, initial observations and investigations and a decision regarding thrombolysis and thrombectomy. We found this to be daunting for trainees, and it has been documented that physician experience impacts upon door-to-needle time.

Aims:
The aim of our simulation training was to provide a safe environment to improve the ability and confidence of trainees in leading stroke calls with a view to improving acute stroke care and patient access to revascularization therapies.

Method:
We designed a one-day simulation course aimed at internal medicine trainees who are expected to lead stroke calls currently or in the immediate future. The candidates are surveyed to establish baseline confidence and complete questionnaires to assess knowledge about managing acute strokes. Here we present data from the first 18 attendees. The course is led by stroke consultants, assisted by members of the multidisciplinary team, including medical trainees, stroke specialist nurses and a paramedic. Alongside structured seminars, simulated acute stroke scenarios lead each candidate through patient handover, assessment, investigation and management decisions followed by a structured debrief. Clinical results, equipment and live monitoring are used to increase the fidelity of the simulation.

Results:
The course improved candidates' confidence in leading a thrombolysis call from a mean of 2.83/10 to 7.11/10, found to be statistically significant on Paired T-Test(t=9.69, p=<0.0001). Furthermore, the candidates’ acute stroke management quiz scores rose from a mean of 5.67/10 to 8.17/10 (t=5.28, p=<0.0001).

Qualitative feedback included: “Good broad interactive session on a subject we get limited teaching on” and “Fantastic, clinically relevant course. I feel much more confident to attend thrombolysis calls now”.

Conclusions:
Simulation is an established staple of acute medical education, and has a demonstrable benefit when applied to acute stroke management training. We propose that this opportunity should be widely available if not mandatory to internal medical training.
Like Community, Like Language: Seventy-Five Years of Sindhi in Post-Partition India
Authors: Iyengar Arvind , Parchani Sundri
Published: February 2022

Since Partition, the Sindhi language in India has frequently been written off by scholars and laypersons alike, citing supposed linguistic corruption, ever-shrinking domains of use, and near-obsolescence in written form. However, census figures have consistently registered an increase in Sindhi speakers in India over the last seven decades. This article argues for a fresh approach to analyzing the journey of Sindhi in post-Partition India to explain this apparent discrepancy. It adopts a language-ecological perspective and evaluates salient grammatical, sociolinguistic, and script-related changes in Indian Sindhi over the last seventy-five years. The article maintains that these changes represent structurally and sociolinguistically plausible adaptations to the language’s ecosystem since Partition. It concludes that, despite a reduction in domains of use, changes in Indian Sindhi, together with an increase in speakers, testify to the language’s survival in India.
Four new enchytraeid species (Enchytraeidae, Annelida) from a Korean mountain (Jeoksangsan)
Authors: DÓZSA-FARKAS KLÁRA , NAGY HAJNALKA , FELFÖLDI TAMÁS , HONG YONG
Published: February 2022

In this article, the descriptions of four new enchytraeid species (Enchytraeidae, Clitellata) from Jeoksangsan (Deogyusan National Park, Korea) are presented: Decimodrilus bulbosus sp. n., Fridericia jeoksangsaniensis sp. n., Fridericia sphaericoides sp. n. and Mesenchytraeus globiferus sp. n. Validity of these new species was verified by comparative morphological and molecular taxonomic analyses (based on the ITS region, CO1 and H3 genes). Apart from the new species, 13 other enchytraeid species were recorded in the soil samples of Jeoksangsan. In addition, new reference sequences are provided for the previously described Fridericia seoraksani Christensen & Dózsa-Farkas, 2012.
Athanas philippei n. sp., a new alpheid shrimp associated with stomatopods in New Caledonia (Decapoda: Caridea)
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR , ĎURIŠ ZDENĚK
Published: February 2022

A new stomatopod-associated species of the alpheid shrimp genus Athanas Leach, 1814 is described based on several specimens collected in shallow waters of northern New Caledonia. Athanas philippei n. sp. differs from all of its congeners by a unique combination of morphological characteristics, as well as a diagnostic colour pattern. All specimens of A. philippei n. sp. were collected from burrows, including one with its host, a large tiger mantis shrimp, Lysiosquillina maculata (Fabricius, 1793) (Lysiosquillidae). Thus, the new species represents the fifth species of Athanas known or presumed to be associated with the spacious burrows of stomatopods.
Enchytraeidae (Annelida: Oligochaeta) from Eastern Dagestan, Russia, with the description of a new species
Authors: DEGTYAREV MAXIM I. , LEBEDEV IURII M. , KUZNETSOVA KSENIA G. , SAIFUTDINOV RUSLAN A. , GONGALSKY KONSTANTIN B. , KOROBUSHKIN DANIIL I.
Published: February 2022

The first ever list of terrestrial enchytraeids of Eastern Dagestan includes 12 species belonging to five genera. Several species from studied localities may be assigned as undescribed, therefore additional comprehensive research of enchytraeid fauna from Eastern Dagestan is required. A new enchytraeid species of the genus Fridericia Michaelsen, 1889, Fridericia samurai sp. nov., is described from Eastern Dagestan, Russia. It clearly differs from other species of the genus by short and simple oesophageal appendages, not subdivided spermathecal diverticula, and the absence of spermathecal ectal glands and clitellum on ventral side.
The ontogeny of two species of the family Notodromadidae (Cypridoidea, Ostracoda, Crustacea); taxonomic and palaeogeographic significance
Authors: SMITH ROBIN JAMES , DECKKER PATRICK DE , KAMIYA TAKAHIRO
Published: February 2022

Details of the post-embryonic development of two Notodromadidae species, Notodromas trulla Smith & Kamiya, 2014 and Newnhamia fenestrata King, 1855, (subfamily Notodromadinae) are provided, and compared with previous ontogenetic studies on other podocopid families and superfamilies. The ontogenetic development is generally similar to other families, consisting of eight free-living juvenile stages and one adult stage, but the first instar, with a leg-like mandible, resembles that of the Cyprididae, rather than other families. From the A-7 instar onwards, the ventral margin of the carapace is a flattened ovoid, and the dorsolateral eye cups are separated, resembling those of the adults, suggesting that a neustonic lifestyle, similar to that of the adults, is embraced from a very early age. In addition to the ventral margin, other apomorphies of the Notodromadinae include spur-like protrusions on the walking legs of juveniles, which become reduced in adults, and features of the mandibles, probably related to neustonic feeding. Overall, Ne. fenestrata has more plesiomorphic features than No. trulla, and most differences between the two species are related to sexually selected characters, such as different sexually dimorphic features of the antennae. This suggests that sexual selection has been the main evolutionary driving force causing morphological divergence in the subfamily. The two taxa, one from Japan (No. trulla), the other Australia (Ne. fenestrata), have perhaps been separated since the breakup of Pangaea, which started in the Middle Jurassic. This suggests that despite the long geographical isolation, many aspects of ostracod anatomy have remained unchanged over long periods of time. On reviewing the taxonomy of the family, we conclude that monophyly needs to be confirmed with further work, and the subfamily Notodromadinae can be divided into two groups: the Notodromas-group and the Newnhamia-group.
Design of the Voltage Transformer Based on Nanocrystalline Alloys and Its Application in Intelligent Detection of Secondary Polarity
Authors: Qiu Huan , Jiang Cheng , Li Guoxue , Hao Diqun , Yu Xinyue , Sun Yongwen
Published: February 2022

In the design of voltage transformers, the magnetic intensity of the core cannot be saturated too quickly, and it must be considered to meet certain accuracy. The iron core materials were studied here. A new type of NAs (Nanocrystalline Alloys, Fe67−xSi12B10NbxCu1.5(x= 0, 1, 2, 3)) was prepared by changing the composition ratio. The influence of Nb content on the soft magnetic properties and thermal stability of NAs was analyzed. The principle of voltage transformer was studied. The prepared NA was used as a new type of core material, and the related indexes were compared with other soft magnetic materials. And this study calculated the relevant parameters of the voltage transformer (including magnetic flux, magnetic induction intensity nephogram, primary back EMF, secondary back EMF, etc.). ARM11 processor S3C6410 was used to measure the secondary polarity of the voltage transformer. CC1100 communication module and MSP430F149 chip were introduced in the measurement process for data acquisition. In the experiment, the average grain size of the NA (Fe65Si12B10Nb2Cu1.5) reached about 10 nm, and it had excellent soft magnetic properties. It could complete heat treatment at 100 °C, and the treatment time interval reaches 60 min, so it had good thermal stability. The voltage transformer under NA was modeled by Ansoft, and the finite element analysis method was used to find that the higher excitation current can be restored in a short time by increasing the magnetic flux, and the waveform showed well. The internal magnetic intensity of the voltage transformer under NAs had good symmetry. Secondary polarity detection results showed that compared with the traditional detection method, the proposed method could effectively and intuitively detect whether the polarity of voltage transformer is correct.
A Recovery Algorithm of Power Quality Big Data Based on Improved Differential Kriging
Authors: Yuan DongBing , Xu Bintai , Gao Sheng
Published: February 2022

The integrity of power quality big data directly affects the state sensing accuracy and operation safety of the power system. Therefore, the recovery algorithm of power quality big data based on improved differential Kolding is studied to improve the big data recovery effect. The trend
turning point is used to divide the time series of power quality big data, and the characteristic matrix of time series is constructed. The recovery model of power quality big data is built according to the characteristic matrix. By improving the differential Kriging solution model, the estimated
value of the data to be recovered is obtained and the big data recovery is completed. Experimental results show that the convergence speed is the fastest when the initial scaling factor is 0.3. The algorithm can effectively recover the big data of random missing and continuous missing. In
different fault recovery scenarios, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is high, the structure similarity value is high, the data recovery accuracy is accurate, and the integrity of the restored data is better.
Research and Preparation of Graphene Foam Based on Passive Ultra-Low Energy Consumption Building New Ultra-Thin External Wall Insulation Material
Authors: Xu Shuangjun , Che Jianjun , An Yi , Zhu Tianzhi , Pang Linbao , Liu Xuechao , Li Xuan , Lv Mengge
Published: February 2022

As an advanced upgrade form of green buildings, passive ultra-low energy consumption building is an inevitable trend of future building development. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop new fireretardant and ultra-thin thermal insulation materials for exterior wall. In
this paper, we focus on graphene foams with excellent thermal insulation, and the microstructure of graphene hydrogel was studied as an intermediate to prepare graphene foam. The microstructure of graphene hydrogel as an intermediate to prepare graphene foam was studied. This study was proposed
based on two problems: (1) Graphene hydrogels change from hydrophilic/lipophobic to hydrophobic/lipophilic after freeze-drying. (2) Compared with the poor mechanical properties of graphene hydrogels, graphene-based nanocomposite hydrogels have highly extensible and resilient properties. We
studied the microstructures of both graphene and graphene hydrogel. Notably, many stomatas were distributed in graphene hydrogel, and the proportion could be adjusted by changing the quantity and type of reducing agent. This property can be applied to adjust the microstructure and properties
of graphene foams. Based on the practice of passive ultra-low energy consumption buildings, the heat insulation mechanism of graphene foam insulation material and the preparation process of graphene foam were studied through theoretical analysis and experimental research. The results of this
study provide a theoretical basis and scientific basis for the development and application of graphene foam insulation materials, and promote the industrial production of graphene foam insulation materials, with important research value and application prospect to solve the problems of high
quality and large-scale development of passive ultra-low energy consumption building restricted by conventional exterior wall insulation materials.
Luminescence Characteristics of Ho3+/Tm3+Co-Doped Bi2O3–GeO2–Ga2O3–Na2O Laser Glasses
Authors: Geng Shuo , Peng Yanfang , Li Jiacheng , Liu Minqiang
Published: February 2022

The Ho3+/Tm3+co-doped 35Bi2O3–40GeO2–15Ga2O3–10Na2O laser glass was synthesized by high temperature melting method. The 2.0μm luminescence characteristics of system glass under central wavelength of 808 nm pumping light excitation were researched, and the fluorescence intensity changing with the doping concentration of Ho3+was analyzed at Tm3+content of 3-mol%. The results indicate that the 2.0μm luminescence of Ho3+is remarkably changed due to the doping ratio of Ho3+/Tm3+. The fluorescence intensity was achieved for the lase glass in the system when the sensitization ratio of Ho3+/Tm3+is 0.5:3 mol%. Its maximum emission cross-section at 2.05μm reaches 7.32 × 10−21cm2, while the gain characteristic ofσemi×τradvalue can get 35.50 × 10−21cm2· ms, and the gain coefficient achieves 2.30 cm−1. Furthermore, the Gaussian decomposition method was employed to fit the spectrum of host glass, maximum phonon energy is 812 cm−1. It indicates that the host gets small phonon energy which is benefit to the 2.0μm laser emission. In summary, results purport that Ho3+/Tm3+co-doped bismuth-germanate system laser glass is a good ~2μm laser gain glass material with good gain characteristics.
Outstanding Electrochemical Supercapacitor Performances of NiCo2O4 Nanoflowers
Authors: Shaheen A. , Hussain Shahid , Qiao G. J. , Mahmoud Mohamed H. , Fouad Hassan , Akhtar M. S.
Published: February 2022

Cost-efficient and dynamic electrode materials are required for high-performance renewable energy storage devices. A cost-effective and simple hydrothermal method was employed to prepare NiCo2O4(NCO) nanoflowers (NFs) as an electrode material for high-energy storage
electrochemical supercapacitors. The as-prepared nanoflowers were characterized by XRD, BET, SEM, and TEM. NCO-NFs were first coated on nickel foam and then used as a binder-free electrode in a supercapacitor device. The fabricated asymmetric supercapacitor device showed excellent electrochemical
properties. The highly conductive NCO-NFs material not only shows a high specific capacitance of 410F g−1 at a scan rate of 5 mV s−1 but also exhibits good cycling stability of 91% capacitive retention after 5000 cycles. The device also delivers a high energy
density of 30 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 165 W kg−1. Our method provides a simple and promising strategy for high-performance supercapacitor electrode application.
Targeted Fluorescence Imaging and Anti-Tumor Effects of QDs-NGR Nanoparticles on Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Tan Guang , Li Bing , Zhang YiJun , Zhang RengYin , Wang Lin , Liu Fengjun , Shan Fei
Published: February 2022

With a poor prognosis and lack of effective therapies, pancreatic cancer is one of the most deadly tumors. The early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer is particularly important to improve patients’ survival rates. In the present study, leveraging on the targeted binding of asparagine-glycine-arginine
(NGR) peptides to CD13, which is overexpressed on pancreatic cancer cells, we constructed nanoparticles, termed QDs-NGR, and explored the targeted fluorescence imaging and influence on pancreatic cancer at the cellular level in vitro of these nanoparticles. The QDs-NGR nanoparticles
enabled the targeted fluorescence imaging of cells, compared with the QDs without the targeting unit, and had obvious inhibiting effects on cancer cells. We have successfully developed a promising nanoparticle with potential for the targeted diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer in
vitro, which provides the foundation for further research.
Aluminum Doped ZnO Nanorods for Enhanced Phenylhydrazine Chemical Sensor Applications
Authors: Umar Ahmad , Ibrahim Ahmad A. , Kumar R. , Rana Kulbhushan , Algadi Hasan , Alhamami Mohsen A. M. , Elsddig Majdolin M. E. , Mohammed Ayeda Y. A.
Published: February 2022

The fabrication and characterization of nanorod-shaped Al-doped ZnO nanostructures are described in this paper. The hexagonal wurtzite phase of ZnO was confirmed by XRD investigation, with efficient doping of Aluminum ions in the ZnO crystal. The length and diameter of the high density
produced doped ZnO nanorods were shown to be heterogeneous using FESEM analysis. EDS, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy examinations validated purity, composition, and vibrational characteristics. Even at very low analyte concentrations, the constructed Al-doped ZnO nanorods modified silver electrode
(AgE) displayed exceptional electron mediating characteristics towards phenylhydrazine. The sensitivity, linear dynamic concentration range (LDR) and limit of detection (LOD) were found to be 64.77 μAmM−1cm−2, 0.313–2.5 mM, and 0.313 mM, respectively.
As a result of the research described, Al-doped ZnO nanorods appear to be promising candidates for building efficient and repeatable electrochemical sensors in the future.
Metabolic Side Effects of Olanzapine in Patients With Psychotic Disorders in Oman: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Al-Tobi Zainab , Al Suleimani Yousuf , Al-Rasadi Khalid , Al-Shabibi Saud , Al Mahrizi Anwar , Al-Maqbali Juhaina , Al-Waili Khalid , Al-Adawi Samir , Al-Zakwani Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

We evaluated the impact of olanzapine on metabolic changes in patients with psychotic disorders. This was a retrospective cohort study involving patients prescribed olanzapine and attending Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (Muscat, Oman). Patients were followed up retrospectively from March 2006 until April 2021. Cardiovascular treatment targets were evaluated as per the 2019 European Society of Cardiology guidelines. We enrolled 253 patients (mean age: 40±17 years). Olanzapine monotherapy was associated with increased body weight (+8 kg; 95% confidence interval (CI): 6–9; P < .001), body mass index (+3 kg/m2; 95% CI: 2–4; P < .001), total cholesterol (+.4 mmol/L; 95% CI: .3–.5; P < .001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (+.3 mmol/L; 95% CI: .1–.4; P < .001), fasting triglycerides (+.2 mmol/L; 95% CI: .1–.3; P<.001), fasting glucose (+.6 mmol/L; 95% CI: .4–.7; P< .001), HbA1c (+.3%; 95% CI: .2–.4; P < .001), systolic blood pressure (BP) (+9 mmHg; 95% CI: 6–12; P < .001) and diastolic BP (+4 mmHg; 95% CI: 2–6; P < .001) levels. Cardiovascular therapeutic goals were attained in 38% (n = 97), 61% (n = 154), 71% (n = 180), and 59% (n = 150) for LDL-C, non–high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and BP, respectively. Olanzapine was associated with adverse metabolic changes. Therefore, many patients were not at their target cardiovascular treatment goals.
Association Between Clinical Symptoms, Electrodiagnostic Findings, Clinical Outcome, and Prodromal Symptoms in Patients With Bell’s Palsy
Authors: Chae Seon A , Yoo Seung Don , Lee Seung Ah , Soh Yunsoo , Yoo Myung Chul , Yun Yeocheon , Chon Jinmann
Published: February 2022

Objective:

This study aimed to determine which prodromal symptoms frequently occur in patients with Bell’s palsy and evaluate the association between these symptoms and clinical severity of paresis or the severity of facial nerve injury.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 86 patients with Bell’s palsy between August 2018 and April 2020. Severity levels of Bell’s palsy and facial nerve damage were evaluated using the House-Brackmann (H-B) grading scale and electrodiagnostic study, respectively. Subsequently, a self-reported questionnaire on prodromal symptoms was administered. To assess the degree of recovery, the H-B grade was reported at 9 weeks and 6 months after the onset of paralysis.

Results:

The most common prodromal symptoms were postauricular pain, sensory decline in the tongue, headache on the affected side, myalgia, facial sensory decline on the affected side, taste impairment, and dry eye. Taste impairment was significantly correlated with severe facial paralysis reported at 9 weeks after onset ( P < .05) and was not related to the severity of paresis assessed at initial examination or 6 months after onset or on electrodiagnostic findings.

Conclusions:

The prodromal symptoms of Bell’s palsy were not associated with the severity of facial nerve injury in an electrodiagnostic study. Taste impairment was related to clinical severity of paralysis at subacute stage, 9 weeks after onset, but it was not associated with long-term prognosis.
Public Policy Discourse and Sexual Minorities: Balancing Democratic Aspirations, Political Expediency and Moral Rights
Authors: Dhal Sangita
Published: February 2022

LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex and asexual) is an evolving issue which needs to be debated in the legislatures and political space in general to deconstruct and redefine the narratives which have been influenced by the dominant sociocultural stereotypes. This is important in the context of the changing scenario worldwide involving the LGBTQIA+ community where assertions are being witnessed to reclaim the democratic space and civil rights to give shape to a more egalitarian and inclusive civic culture. This article highlights the changing character of the public discourse on LGBTQIA+ community in India in recent times and its impact on the judiciary and the political system. In the light of the recent Supreme Court landmark verdict of decriminalising Section 377 of Indian Penal Code (IPC), the present article seeks to examine a vast array of possibilities and challenges before the LGBTQIA+ community. The legal safeguards guaranteed through judicial pronouncements by the Supreme Court (6 September 2018), however, do not ensure the creation of an enabling social environment to accept homosexuality as a ‘normal behaviour’. Hence, unless corresponding corrective measures are taken to bring about social reforms for change of perception towards the homosexuality community, no amount of judicial intervention will guarantee their inclusion in the mainstream.
Neotraditionalism and Indigenous Governance: Balancing Traditions with Emerging Challenges
Authors: Chhetri Durga Prasad
Published: February 2022

The traditional institutions in many parts of the world have managed to respond to various external political change and pressures and maintained their position within society. What is more important is that traditional institutions have been constantly adapted to accommodate new circumstances, as the social and economic organisation of societies has changed particularly over the last century due to rapid urbanisation and globalisation, as well as the standardisation of liberal politics. Against this backdrop, this article examines the existence and survival of traditional institutions in the hill state of Sikkim, India, through the prism of neotraditionalism. In other words, this article seeks to address the question that how traditional institutions, which are embedded in neotraditional structures, have survived and repositioned in the new democratic system. Besides, the author attempts to show how neotraditional actors like Pipon and village elders are involved in the development arena and managed to attain a semblance of balance between tradition and modernity without destroying the foundation of tribal society and culture.