bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Objective Evaluation Method of Broadcasting Vocal Timbre Based on Feature Selection
Authors: Lv Chaohui , Lan Hua , Yu Ying , Li Shengnan
Published: May 2022

Broadcasting voice is used to convey ideas and emotions. In the selection process of broadcasting and hosting professionals, the vocal timbre is an important index. The subjective evaluation method is widely used, but the selection results have certain subjectivity and uncertainty. In this paper, an objective evaluation method of broadcasting vocal timbre is proposed. Firstly, the broadcasting vocal timbre database is constructed on Chinese phonetic characteristics. Then, the timbre feature selection strategy is presented based on human vocal mechanism, and the broadcast timbre characteristics are divided into three categories, which include source parameters, vocal tract parameters, and human hearing parameters. Finally, the three models of hidden Markov model (HMM), Gaussian Mixture Model-General Background Model (GMM-UBM), and long short-term memory (LSTM) are exploited to evaluate the timbre of the broadcast by extracting timbre features and four timbre feature combinations. The experiments show that the selection of timbre features is scientific and effective. Moreover, the accuracy of the LSTM network using the deep learning algorithm in the objective evaluation of the broadcast timbre is better than the traditional HMM and GMM-UBM, and the proposed method can achieve about 95% accuracy rate in our database.
Development of Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Magnet System for In Vivo Tooth Dosimetry
Authors: Choi Kwon , Koo ChangUk , Oh JeongHun , Park Jong In , Hirata Hiroshi , Ye Sung-Joon
Published: May 2022

As part of a homebuilt continuous wave electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectrometer operating at 1.2 GHz, a magnet system for in vivo tooth dosimetry was developed. The magnet was designed by adopting NdFeB permanent magnet (PM) for the main magnetic field generation. For each pole of the magnet, 32 cylindrical PMs were arranged in 2 axially aligned ring arrays. The pole gap was 18 cm, which was wide enough for a human head breadth. The measured magnetic field was compared with the magnetic field distribution calculated in a finite element method (FEM) simulation. EPR spectra of intact human teeth irradiated 5 and 30 Gy were measured for the performance test with the developed magnet system and spectrometer. The measured mean magnetic flux density was estimated to be 44.45 mT with homogeneity of 1,600 ppm in a 2 cm diameter of the spherical volume of the XY plane, which was comparable to the FEM simulation results. The sweep coefficient of the magnetic field sweep coil was 0.35 mT per Ampere in both the measurement and FEM simulation. With ±9 A current, the sweep range was 5.7 mT, which was sufficiently wide to measure the tooth radiation-induced signal (RIS) and reference material. The peak-to-peak amplitude of the measured modulation field was 0.38 mT at the center of the magnet. With the developed magnet fully integrated into an EPR system, the EPR spectra of 5 and 30 Gy irradiated teeth were successfully acquired. The developed magnet system showed sufficiently acceptable performance in terms of magnetic flux density and homogeneity. The EPR spectrum of tooth RIS could be measured ex vivo. The RIS of 5 and 30 Gy irradiated teeth was clearly distinguishable from intact human teeth.
Planning Algorithm for Route and Task Allocation of Plant Protection UAVs in Multiple Operating Areas
Authors: Li Yibai , Cao Guangqiao , Chen Cong , Liu Dong
Published: May 2022

This paper takes the flying defense team as the operating unit and studies the route planning and tasks in the process of plant protection operations as system problems. In the route planning, the flight defense team’s operating time is used as the optimization goal of route planning. Taking the UAV battery and drug load as constraints, the flight mission is divided into subtasks that can be completed by a single UAV in a single flight. On this basis, the particle swarm algorithm is used to optimize the task allocation, so as to achieve the goal of UAV plant protection route and task division with minimum time loss. In order to verify the effectiveness of the method in this paper, 3 and 4 UAVs flying defense teams were used as the experimental objects, and experiments were carried out in large and small field groups. In terms of time consumption, the method in this paper is compared with the unit operation area method and the single size method. The energy consumption advantage is weaker than time consumption. In terms of time consumption, the method in this paper can greatly improve the efficiency of large-area operation areas. Compared with the unit operation area method, 3 drones can increase the efficiency by 58.98%, which is increased by 10.22% compared with the unit size method. The efficiency of 4 units can be increased by 58.08% compared with the unit operation area method, and the efficiency is increased by 10.22% compared with the unit size method.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Combined with Breast-Conserving Surgery in the Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Li Huixin , Wu Feng , Sun Dan , Zhang Hengle , Jin Lijun , Kang Xiaoning , Wang Zunyi
Published: May 2022

Objective. To study the clinical efficacy and quality of life of neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with breast-conserving surgery in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer. Methods. A retrospective analysis of 100 patients with triple-negative breast cancer was performed from May 2012 to April 2017. The patients were divided into an observation group and a control group according to different treatment methods, with 50 cases in each group. The control group received AC-T sequential chemotherapy after breast-conserving surgery, and the observation group received AC-T sequential chemotherapy before breast-conserving surgery (neoadjuvant). The operation time, postoperative immune function, postoperative tumor markers, postoperative efficacy, and postoperative complications of the two groups of patients were statistically analyzed, and the quality of life of the two groups of patients 1 year after the operation was compared. Results. Compared with the control group, the operation time and blood loss of the observation group were significantly reduced, and the difference was statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). The observation group produced significantly higher total effective rate after treatment (82.00% vs. 56.00%) (

P
<
0.05

). The observation group exhibited superior immune function indexes CD3, CD4, and CD8 after operation when compared with the control group (

P
<
0.05

). There was no significant difference in serum tumor marker levels between the two groups before surgery and after surgery (both

P
>
0.05

). Three days after operation, the levels of procalcitonin (PCT) and TNF-α in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (

P
<
0.05

). There was no significant difference in the local recurrence rate, distant metastasis rate, and 3-year survival rate between the two groups (

P
>
0.05

); however, the postoperative complication rate of the observation group was 6.00%, which was significantly lower than that of the control group (30%) (

P
<
0.05

). The overall health, physiological function, physiological function, and body pain of the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with breast-conserving surgery for triple-negative breast cancer can not only improve the therapeutic effect of patients and reduce the incidence of postoperative adverse reactions but also significantly improve the quality of life of patients after surgery.
Harmonization and Verification of Three National European Icing Forecast Models Using Pilot Reports
Authors: Knigge Christoph , Bennett Katie , Le Bot Christine , Gehlen-Zeller Mara , Koos Svenja
Published: May 2022

The Single European Sky Air Traffic Management Research (SESAR) program aims at modernizing and harmonizing the European airspace, which currently has a strongly fragmented character. Besides turbulence and convection, in-flight icing is part of SESAR and can be seen as one of the most important meteorological phenomena, which may lead to hazardous flight conditions for aircraft. In this study, several methods with varying complexities are analyzed for combining three individual in-flight icing forecasts based on numerical weather prediction models from Deutscher Wetterdienst, Météo-France, and Met Office. The optimal method will then be used to operate one single harmonized in-flight icing forecast over Europe. As verification data, pilot reports (PIREPs) are used, which provide information about hazardous weather and are currently the only direct regular measure of in-flight icing events available. In order to assess the individual icing forecasts and the resulting combinations, the probability of detection skill score is calculated based on multicategory contingency tables for the forecast icing intensities. The scores are merged into a single skill score to give an overview of the quality of the icing forecast and enable comparison of the different model combination approaches. The concluding results show that the most complex combination approach, which uses iteratively optimized weighting factors for each model, provides the best forecast quality according to the PIREPs. The combination of the three icing forecasts results in a harmonized icing forecast that exceeds the skill of each individual icing forecast, thus providing an improvement to in-flight icing forecasts over Europe.
Assessment of Myocardial Work of the Left Ventricle before and after PCI in Patients with Non-ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome by Pressure-Strain Loop Technology
Authors: Ren Fei , Xue Ting , Tang Ge , Zhang Man , Zhao Jing , Chen Yun’An , Fan Jixu , Yu Ming , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2022

Objectives. Noninvasive left ventricular pressure-strain loop (PSL) is a new method for quantitative evaluation of myocardial work, which is developed on the basis of speckle tracking echocardiography. It is necessary to fit the noninvasive left ventricular pressure and the strain by speckle tracking echocardiography to construct a pressure-strain loop. Compared with traditional left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS), it has potential application value and is a useful supplement for clinical evaluation of left ventricular systolic function. We perform this study to evaluate the changes of myocardial function in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) before and after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with noninvasive left ventricular pressure-strain loop (PSL). Methods. 33 NSTE-ACS patients admitted to the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine of the Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University who successfully underwent early PCI were included as the PCI group. At the same time, 30 healthy patients matched in age and sex were selected as the control group. All patients received routine echocardiography. The parameters such as GWI, GCW, GWW, and GWE were obtained by EchoPAC 203 software. The differences in the general clinical data and echocardiographic parameters between the two groups, including controls and patients 1 day before surgery and 1 month after surgery, were compared. Results. Compared with the control group, GWI, GCW, and GWI in the PCI group were decreased 1 day before surgery and 1 month after surgery, while GWW was increased, with statistical significance (

P
<
0.05

). In the PCI group, compared with 1 day before surgery, GWI and GCW were all increased 1 month after surgery (

P
<
0.05

), and GWW and GWE were not significantly different between the two groups (

P
>
0.05

). Conclusion. The noninvasive left ventricular PSL technology can early and accurately evaluate the myocardial function impairment in NSTE-ACS patients and the recovery of myocardial function after PCI, providing a new noninvasive method for clinical postoperative myocardial function evaluation.
Sources Identification and Health Risk Evaluation of 10 Heavy Metals (Metalloids) in Soils of the Aibi Lake Basin, Northwest China
Authors: Zhaoyong Zhang , Jieyi Guo , Pengwei Wang
Published: May 2022

Recently, soils heavy metals pollution and health risks researches in oasis are few, and in this study, the Aibi lake basin—a typical oasis—was chosen as the research area, and then, we evaluated the pollution status and sources identification and analyzed the health risks of ten heavy metals in the soils. Results showed that (1) the average (range) values for As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn were (6.500–48.040) 20.011, (0.0002–0.088) 0.035, (0.060–18.150) 5.994, (24.160–106.400) 53.557, (3.460–58.760) 16.981, (0.0002–0.099) 0.042, (195.310–842.850) 483.311, (0.960–70.100) 14.235, (0.180–25.390) 8.086, and (22.340–156.250) 61.334 mg/kg, respectively, and we can get except for As, the maximum values of other nine elements all within the limited values provided by the soil environmental quality risk control standard of China. (2) Health risk evaluation showed that the total exposure amount for ADIing for children and adults was 0.001067998 and 0.000344707, ADIinh for children and adults was 9.69977E-08 and 7.95869E-08, ADIderm for children and adults was 8.52275E-06 and 2.09927E-06, and the order of exploring ways is ADIing > ADIinh > ADIderm. (3) The multivariate statistical analysis and PMF results showed that Cr, Cu, Co, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn primarily come from the natural background and man-made sources; Cd primarily comes from man-made sources; As and Hg come from natural background sources and industry sources. The results can provide reference values for heavy metals pollution prevention and the protection of the environment in the Aibi lake basin and as well as central Asia.
Revisited Cyclophosphamide in the Treatment of Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Quan Xiao-ying , Chen Hao-tao , Liang Si-qin , Yang Chen , Yao Cui-wei , Xu Yong-zhi , Liu Hua-feng , An Ning
Published: May 2022

Lupus nephritis (LN) is the most common serious complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The pathogenesis of LN is complex, and the majority causes of LN are the renal deposition of circulating or/and in situ‐formed immune complexes. These immune complexes trigger glomerular and tubulointerstitial inflammation, which finally leads to proteinuria and loss of renal function. Despite the emergence of new biological agents, cyclophosphamide (CY), an alkylating agent, is still the first‐line drug widely used to treat patients with severe LN. In this review, we outline the application history, molecular structure, and pharmacokinetics of CY in the treatment of LN. We also detail its latest known immunopharmacological mechanisms, with a focus on supplemental regulation and inhibition of CD4 and CD8 positive T cells, differences in the use of various guidelines, and the combination with other drugs. The side effects of CY are also mentioned in this review.
UAV Intelligent Control Based on Machine Vision and Multiagent Decision-Making
Authors: Huang Zishan
Published: May 2022

In order to improve the effect of UAV intelligent control, this paper will improve machine vision technology. Moreover, this paper adds scale information on the basis of the LSD algorithm, uses the multiline segment standard to merge these candidate line segments for intelligent recognition, and uses the LSD detection algorithm to improve the operating efficiency of the UAV control system and reduce the computational complexity. In addition, this paper combines machine vision technology and multiagent decision-making technology for UAV intelligent control and builds an intelligent control system, which uses intelligent machine vision technology for recognition and multiagent decision-making technology for motion control. The research results show that the UAV intelligent control system based on machine vision and multiagent decision-making proposed in this paper can achieve reliable control of UAVs and improve the work efficiency of UAVs.
Artificial Intelligence Algorithm‐Based High‐Resolution Computed Tomography Image in the Treatment of Children with Bronchiolitis Obliterans by Traditional Chinese Medicine Method of Resolving Phlegm and Removing Blood Stasis
Authors: Shi Xiaoning , Zhou Qing
Published: May 2022

This research was aimed to explore the application of high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) based on intelligent iterative reconstruction technique in the early diagnosis and treatment of bronchiolitis obliterans (BO) in children and to explore the efficacy of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in resolving phlegm and removing blood stasis. Sixty pediatric patients with BO were selected as the study subjects and diagnosed by HRCT scanning, and the scanned images were processed by iterative reconstruction technique. The patients were treated with TCM therapy of resolving phlegm and removing blood stasis alone (group A), HRCT‐guided TCM therapy of resolving phlegm and removing blood stasis (group B), and iterative reconstruction HRCT‐guided TCM therapy of resolving phlegm and removing blood stasis (group C). The results showed that the lung HRCT image after iterative reconstruction was closer to the original image than that after filtered back projection reconstruction, and the edge of the image after filtered back projection reconstruction was more blurred and the noise was higher. The image obtained by iterative reconstruction technique was smoother and clearer, and the image stability after iterative reconstruction was higher. The treatment results showed that the proportion of moderate and severe obstruction in group C was 5.18%, which was significantly lower than that in group A (18.75%) and group B (11.29%), and group B was significantly lower than that in group A (18.75%) (P < 0.05). The proportion of clinical effect in group C after treatment was 70.18%, significantly higher than that in group A (55.5%) and group B (63.34%), and that in group B was significantly higher than that in group A (55.5%) (P < 0.05). In summary, the lung HRCT after iterative reconstruction can more clearly and intuitively show the lesion site, which has a key role in guiding the early diagnosis and treatment planning of BO; the HRCT image based on iterative reconstruction technique combined with TCM treatment of removing blood stasis and resolving phlegm has a better therapeutic effect on children, with a high application value.
Comparison of Laboratory Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infections Based on Leukocyte and Bacterial Parameters Using Standardized Microscopic and Flow Cytometry Methods
Authors: Christy Priskila , Sidjabat Hanna Evelina , Lumban Toruan Anggia Augustasia , Moses Emmanuel Jairaj , Mohd Yussof Narazah , Puspitasari Yessy , Fuadi Muhammad Robiul , Aryati  , Marpaung Ferdy Royland
Published: May 2022

Background. Rapid and reliable tests are essential for the diagnostic laboratory confirmation of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Until now, UTI has been confirmed by the microbiology culture of urine, requiring at least 48-hour turnaround time (TAT), with a standardized microscopic method being widely favored. Automated urine flow cytometry, however, has recently been used to improve the rapid TAT by analyzing the urine sediment. This study therefore aimed to compare the diagnostic value of the Shih-Yung conventional microscopic and urine flow cytometry methods in the detection of leukocyte and bacterial parameters of patients with UTIs in an outpatient clinic. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted on a total of 100 patients. Seventy urine samples were positive for leukocytes and nitrite chemistry, and 30 were negative for both. The measurements of urine leukocytes and bacteria were compared between Sysmex UF-5000 urine flow cytometry and the Shih-Yung method. The diagnostic value was obtained from ROC analysis of urine flow cytometry and the culture. Results. A leukocyte cutoff value of 87.2/μL had a sensitivity and specificity of 98.33% and 95%, respectively, and 98.33% sensitivity and 75% specificity at a bacterial cutoff of 582.22/μL. Interestingly, our study identified strong and consistent agreement of leukocyte and bacterial parameters between urine flow cytometry and Shih-Yung (k = 0.959,

p
<
0.001

and k = 0.939,

p
<
0.001

, respectively). Furthermore, through analyzing the dominance angle of the scattergram, a strong agreement was obtained with the culture result (k = 0.880,

p
<
0.001

). Conclusions. The Shih-Yung method showed consistent agreement with urine flow cytometry for the detection of leukocytes and bacteria. The use of certain cutoffs for bacterial and leukocyte parameters in urine flow cytometry demonstrated very good performance in detecting acquired symptomatic UTIs.
Silica Desiccant Canister: An Unusual Colonic Foreign Body
Authors: Ramachandran Rajarajeshwari , Kumar Vikash , Isaac-Coss Giovannie , Etienne Denzil
Published: May 2022

We are reporting a case of incidental identification and removal of two silica desiccant canisters from the cecum in a patient undergoing screening colonoscopy.
An Audit Risk Model Based on Improved BP Neural Network Data Mining Algorithm
Authors: Niu Wenjia , Zhao Lihua , Jia Peiyao , Chu Jiankun
Published: May 2022

Professional auditors provide audit services to businesses and they are key participants in enterprise development. Effective identification of audit risks can help auditors plan their audit work rationally and issue correct audit opinions. In the era of big data and the Internet, enterprises generate a large amount of data in their daily operations. For auditors, it is a great challenge to use data mining algorithms, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies to identify high-quality audit data from the vast amount of data of audited enterprises. At the same time, some companies may falsify and modify their financial statements for their own benefit, which further increases the difficulty for auditors in conducting audits. Traditional auditing methods are costly and consuming and cannot meet standard auditing requirements. Therefore, this study applies computer data mining algorithms to construct an audit risk model that provides a reference for auditors to conduct big data analysis and mines valuable data, thereby improving the efficiency and accuracy of the audit process.
Stress Keratin 17 Expression in Head and Neck Cancer Contributes to Immune Evasion and Resistance to Immune-Checkpoint Blockade
Authors: Wang Wei , Lozar Taja , Golfinos Athena E. , Lee Denis , Gronski Ellery , Ward-Shaw Ella , Hayes Mitchell , Bruce Justine Y. , Kimple Randall J. , Hu Rong , Harari Paul M. , Xu Jin , Keske Aysenur , Sondel Paul M. , Fitzpatrick Megan B. , Dinh Huy Q. , Lambert Paul F.
Published: May 2022

Purpose:

We investigated whether in human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) high levels of expression of stress keratin 17 (K17) are associated with poor survival and resistance to immunotherapy.

Experimental Design:

We investigated the role of K17 in regulating both the tumor microenvironment and immune responsiveness of HNSCC using a syngeneic mouse HNSCC model, MOC2. MOC2 gives rise to immunologically cold tumors that are resistant to immune-checkpoint blockade (ICB). We engineered multiple, independent K17 knockout (KO) MOC2 cell lines and monitored their growth and response to ICB. We also measured K17 expression in human HNSCC of patients undergoing ICB.

Results:

MOC2 tumors were found to express K17 at high levels. When knocked out for K17 (K17KO MOC2), these cells formed tumors that grew slowly or spontaneously regressed and had a high CD8+ T-cell infiltrate in immunocompetent syngeneic C57BL/6 mice compared with parental MOC2 tumors. This phenotype was reversed when we depleted mice for T cells. Whereas parental MOC2 tumors were resistant to ICB treatment, K17KO MOC2 tumors that did not spontaneously regress were eliminated upon ICB treatment. In a cohort of patients with HNSCC receiving pembrolizumab, high K17 expression correlated with poor response. Single-cell RNA-sequencing analysis revealed broad differences in the immune landscape of K17KO MOC2 tumors compared with parental MOC2 tumors, including differences in multiple lymphoid and myeloid cell types.

Conclusions:

We demonstrate that K17 expression in HNSCC contributes to immune evasion and resistance to ICB treatment by broadly altering immune landscapes of tumors.
Classical ballet adapted for women with disc herniation in the lower back: case report
Authors: Silva Lysia Barbosa , Castoldi Robson Chacon , Marcelo Henrique Izaias , Fernandes Rômulo Araújo , Zanuto Everton Alex Carvalho
Published: May 2022

Introduction: A herniated disc in the lower back is the most common diagnosis among degenerative alterations in the lumbar spine. Various forms of treatment for improvement of lumbar disc herniation, such as anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, acupuncture, antidepressants, morphine, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The physical exercise is an effective, inexpensive, and non-pharmacological tool. Although, there are still several barriers to accepting the use of specific physical exercises outside the clinical environment, such as dance and sports. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the contributions of classical ballet adapted to improve the clinical framework of lumbar disc herniation in a beginner student of classical ballet. Method: The case study composed for one script made by the evaluators was applied to an adult woman with 32 years old, who until that point had not practiced classical ballet. The exercises were performed twice a week (two hours for session) for a period of 13 weeks, totaling 26 sessions, giving a total exposure during the intervention of 52 hours. Results: The magnetic image obtained from medical reports after the intervention found that compared to the previous examination the disc herniation at level L4 – L5 was reduced in size. In addition, the visual analog pain scale (EVA) assessment pre intervention was maximum pain and post intervention was no pain. The numeric pain scale rating (NPS) pre intervention was number 9 with pain, and post intervention, number 2 painless. The Faces Pain Scales (FPS) pre intervention had a factor of 6 with pain, and post-intervention factor 2, painless. Conclusion: It is possible to conclude that the present script made by the evaluators was sufficient for cause the of herniation reduction in the evaluated patient post intervention.
Noções de continuidade e descontinuidade em Michel Foucault e Reinhart Koselleck
Authors: Santana Ana Souza
Published: May 2022

No que diz respeito à discussão sobre tempo histórico, o filósofo Michel Foucault, em sua fase arqueológica, evitava operar com quaisquer categorias preestabelecidas metafisicamente, aderindo a uma noção pouco estrutural e mais descontínua do tempo. O historiador Reinhart Koselleck, por outro lado, baseia a sua teoria em estruturas temporais repetitivas e categorias antropológicas inerentes à natureza humana, dando a entender uma noção de tempo marcada por uma perspectiva mais estrutural e contínua. Mas será que estes dois autores são tão díspares quanto aparentam? Este artigo visa entender de que maneira as noções de continuidade e descontinuidade são elementos de grande importância nos trabalhos de Foucault e Koselleck, colocando em questão as concepções de tempo histórico presentes em ambos os autores.
Serosurvey of viral pathogens in free-ranging dog populations in the high altitude Trans-Himalayan region
Authors: Home Chandrima , Bijoor Ajay , Bhatnagar Yash Veer , Vanak Abi Tamim
Published: May 2022

Dogs, as reservoir hosts, have been implicated in the decline of carnivore populations across the globe. We conducted a serosurvey of free-ranging dog populations to assess the population level exposure rates to three viral pathogens, canine parvovirus (CPV), canine distemper virus (CDV) and canine adenovirus (CAV) in a Trans-Himalayan landscape in India that is home to the endangered Snow Leopard. A total of 97 dogs were sampled across six villages as a part of a surgical sterilization campaign during the study period. Samples were tested for IgG antibodies using a table top ELISA kit. Exposure rates to the three viral pathogens in the dog populations was high; 100% for CPV, 54% for CDV and 66% for CAV, with high positive immunoglobulin titer values for CAV and CPV, and low to moderate values for CDV. Overall conservation efforts for native carnivores need to address the role of free-ranging domestic dogs in disease transmission.
Occurrence patterns of herpetofauna in different habitat types of western Terai Arc Landscape, India
Authors: Gajendra Singh Mehra  , Mohanty Nakulananda , Dutta Sushil Kumar
Published: May 2022

The Terai Arc Landscape (TAL) is an important region of biodiversity in India. Situated in the foothills of the Himalaya, it is spread across India and Nepal. We describe the herpetofauna of the western part of TAL encompassing Ramnagar Forest Division, which falls in Uttarakhand state of India. We primarily used visual encounter survey method for sampling. A total of 47 species of herpetofauna belonging to three orders, 17 families and 36 genera were recorded from 10 habitat types (6 terrestrial and 4 aquatic). Highest species richness (n=32) was recorded from the human settlement and least (n=4) species richness was reported from pond habitat.  In this paper, the diversity of amphibians and reptiles in each habitat type is discussed.
Association of Vascular Properties With the Brain White Matter Hyperintensity in Middle‐Aged Population
Authors: Hannawi Yousef , Vaidya Dhananjay , Yanek Lisa R. , Johansen Michelle C. , Kral Brian G. , Becker Lewis C. , Becker Diane M. , Nyquist Paul A.
Published: May 2022

Background

The periventricular white matter is more sensitive to the systemic hemodynamic alterations than the deep white matter because of differences in its vascular structure and systemic circulation relationship. We hypothesize that periventricular white matter hyperintensity (PVWMH) volume shows greater association than deep white matter hyperintensity (DWMH) volume with vascular properties (VPs) reflecting arterial stiffness and cardiovascular remodeling, indicators of the systemic circulation.

Methods and Results

A total of 426 participants (age, 59.0±6.1 years; 57.5% women; and 39.7% Black race) in the Genetic Study of Atherosclerosis Risk who were aged ≥50 years and had brain magnetic resonance imaging were studied. VPs included pulse pressure, hypertensive response to exercise, diastolic brachial artery diameter, diastolic common carotid artery diameter, common carotid artery distensibility coefficient, and left ventricular function. The relative associations of VPs with PVWMH and DWMH as multiple measures within the same individual were determined using multilevel linear models. We also determined if age modified the differences in VPs associations with PVWMH and DWMH. Our findings indicated that, within the same subject, PVWMH volume had greater association than DWMH volume with pulse pressure (
P
=0.002), hypertensive response to exercise (
P
=0.04), diastolic brachial artery diameter (
P
=0.012), and diastolic common carotid artery diameter (
P
=0.04), independent of age and cardiovascular risk factors. The differences of PVWMH versus DWMH associations with VPs did not differ at any age threshold.

Conclusions

We show, for the first time, that PVWMH has greater association than DWMH, independent of age, with vascular measurements of arterial stiffness and cardiovascular remodeling suggesting that changes in the systemic circulation affect the PVWMH and DWMH differently.
Marital Status and Subclinical Coronary Atherosclerosis in Asymptomatic Individuals
Authors: Ann Soe Hee , Lee Hyeji , Park Kyung Sun , Jeon Young‐Jee , Park Eun Ji , Park Sangwoo , Kim Yong‐Giun , Lee Yongjik , Choi Seong Hoon , Kwon Woon Jung , Park Gyung‐Min
Published: May 2022

Background

Data are limited on the association between marital status and subclinical coronary atherosclerosis. This study investigated the influence of marital status on subclinical coronary atherosclerosis detected by coronary computed tomographic angiography in an asymptomatic population.

Methods and Results

This retrospective study analyzed 9288 asymptomatic individuals (mean age, 53.7±8.0 years; 6041 [65%] men) with no history of coronary artery disease who voluntarily underwent coronary computed tomographic angiography during a general health examination. Marital categories were married (n=8481) versus unmarried (n=807), comprising never married (n=195), divorced (n=183), separated (n=119), and widowed (n=310) individuals. The degree and extent of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis were evaluated by coronary computed tomographic angiography; ≥50% diameter stenosis was defined as significant. Logistic regression and propensity score matching analyses were used to determine the association between marital status and subclinical coronary atherosclerosis. After adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, no significant differences were observed in the adjusted odds ratio (OR) of unmarried status for any coronary plaque (OR, 1.077; 95% CI, 0.899–1.291), calcified plaque (OR, 1.058; 95% CI, 0.881–1.271), noncalcified plaque (OR, 0.966; 95% CI, 0.691–1.351), mixed plaque (OR, 1.301; 95% CI, 0.884–1.917), and significant coronary artery stenosis (OR, 1.066; 95% CI, 0.771–1.474). Similarly, in the 2:1 propensity‐score matched population (n=2398), no statistically significant differences were observed for the OR of marital status for any subclinical coronary atherosclerosis (
P
>0.05 for all).

Conclusions

In this large cross‐sectional study, marital status was not associated with an increased risk of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis.
Cerebral Circulation Time After Thrombectomy: A Potential Predictor of Outcome After Recanalization in Acute Stroke
Authors: Wang Jia‐Qi , Wang Ying‐Jia , Qiu Jin , Li Wei , Sun Xian‐Hui , Zhao Yong‐Gang , Liu Xin , Zhao Zi‐Ai , Liu Liang , Nguyen Thanh N. , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: May 2022

Background

Despite successful recanalization, up to half of patients with acute ischemic stroke caused by large‐vessel occlusion treated with endovascular treatment (EVT) do not recover to functional independence. We aim to evaluate the role of cerebral circulation time (CCT) as outcome predictor after EVT.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively enrolled consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke–large‐vessel occlusion undergoing EVT. Three categories of CCT based on digital subtraction angiography were studied: CCT of the stroke side, CCT of the healthy side), and change of CCT of the stroke side versus CCT of the healthy side. Dramatic clinical recovery was defined as a 24‐hour National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score ≤2 or ≥8 points drop. A modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 at 3 months was considered a favorable outcome. Logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the prediction of CCT on prognosis. One hundred patients were enrolled, of which 38 (38.0%) experienced a dramatic clinical recovery and 43 (43.0%) achieved a favorable outcome. Logistic regression analysis found that shorter change of CCT of the stroke side versus CCT of the healthy side and CCT of the stroke side were independent positive prognostic factors for dramatic clinical recovery (odds ratio [OR], 0.189;
P
=0.033; OR, 0.581;
P
=0.035) and favorable outcomes (OR, 0.142;
P
=0.020; OR, 0.581;
P
=0.046) after adjustment for potential confounders. A model including the change of CCT of the stroke side versus CCT of the healthy side also had significantly higher area under the curve values compared with the baseline model in patients with dramatic clinical recovery (0.780 versus 0.742) or favorable outcome (0.759 versus 0.713).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report that CCT based on digital subtraction angiography data exhibits an independent predictive performance for clinical outcome in patients with acute ischemic stroke–large‐vessel occlusion after EVT. Given that this readily available CCT can provide alternative perfusion information during EVT, a prospective, multicenter trial is warranted.
Diglyphomorphomyia Girault (Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae) new to the Neotropical region including nine new species
Authors: HANSSON CHRISTER
Published: May 2022

The genus Diglyphomorphomyia Girault is newly reported from the Neotropical region, with the majority of material and species from Costa Rica. It is represented by nine species in the region, and all are new species described here: D. albiclava, D. albicoxa, D. carinifer, D. costulata, D. cristata, D. metallica, D. parva, D. pedunculata, D. pilosa. An identification key for the species is included. The Neotropical species of this genus differ in one morphological feature from Old World species, but share several important characters with the type species of Diglyphomorphomyia from Australia. The biology of Diglyphomorphomyia species is unknown, but they are probably parasitoids of concealed lepidopteran larvae.
Observation Impact and Information Retention in the Lower Troposphere of the GMAO GEOS Data Assimilation System
Authors: Zhu Yanqiu , Todling Ricardo , Arnold Nathan
Published: May 2022

In this study, we have assessed the effectiveness of the use of existing observing systems in the lower troposphere in the GEOS hybrid–4DEnVar data assimilation system through a set of observing system experiments. The results show that microwave radiances have a large impact in the Southern Hemisphere and tropical ocean, but the large influence is mostly observed above 925 hPa and dissipates relatively quickly with longer forecast lead times. Conventional data information holds better in the forecast ranging from the surface to 100 hPa, depending on the field evaluated, in the Northern Hemisphere and lowest model levels in the tropics. Infrared radiances collectively have much less impact in the lower troposphere. Removing surface observations has small but persistent impact on specific humidity in the upper atmosphere, but small or negligible impact on planetary boundary layer (PBL) height and temperature. The model responses to the incremental analysis update (IAU) forcing are also analyzed. In the IAU assimilation window, the physics responds strongly to the IAU forcing in the lower troposphere, and the changes of physics tendency in the lower troposphere and hydrodynamics tendency in the mid- and upper troposphere are viewed as beneficial to the reduction of state error covariance. In the subsequent forecast, the model tendencies continue to deviate further from the original free forecast with forecast lead times around 300–400 hPa, but physics tendency has showed signs of returning to its original free forecast mechanisms at 1-day forecast in the lower troposphere.
Local Administration of Metformin Improves Bone Microarchitecture and Biomechanical Properties During Ruptured Canine Achilles Tendon–Calcaneus Interface Healing
Authors: Shi Qiang , Zhang Tao , Chen Yang , Xu Yan , Deng Zhenhan , Xu Daqi
Published: May 2022

Background:

Tendon-bone interface (TBI) healing is a clinical dilemma that is closely relevant to new bone formation and remodeling at the repair site. Previous studies showed that metformin is an osteogenic inducer for stem cells in vitro and capable of stimulating bone regeneration in vivo.

Hypothesis:

Metformin would be effective for promoting TBI healing by enhancing new bone formation and remodeling.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Canine bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) were cultured with various concentrations of metformin (0, 10, 50, 100, 200 μM). The effect of metformin on the osteogenic differentiation of canine BMSCs was evaluated via alizarin red staining and osteogenic gene expression. Eighteen mature beagles were included in a bilateral Achilles tendon–calcaneus (ATC) interface injury model. The right interface was reattached via surgical repair only, while the left was surgically reattached after implanting a fibrin glue containing metformin. At postoperative week 4 or 8, the healing quality of the wounded ATC interfaces was evaluated.

Results:

In vitro experiments determined that metformin was an osteogenic inducer for canine BMSCs. In vivo experiments showed that the metformin-treated ATC interfaces were repaired with significantly greater failure load and stiffness than was the no-metformin control site ( P < .05 for all). Micro–computed tomography analysis showed that the metformin-treated specimens presented significantly higher bone volume/total volume and trabecular thickness than did the no-metformin control specimens ( P < .05 for all), as confirmed via hematoxylin and eosin staining. Immunohistochemical staining showed that significantly more osteocalcin-positive cells were located at the newly formed bones treated with metformin than at the no-metformin control site at week 4 ( P < .05). Masson trichrome staining showed that significantly more oriented collagen fibers anchored into the newly formed bone of the metformin-treated site than the no-metformin control site ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Metformin induced the osteogenesis of canine BMSCs in vitro, and local administration of metformin provided an improvement of bone microarchitecture at the calcaneus as well as an increase in the tensile properties of the repaired ATC interfaces in canines.

Clinical Relevance:

Findings of the study indicate that local administration of metformin may be an effective strategy for TBI healing in clinic.
Thermal characteristics on two immiscible fluid flows in a porous space with time dependent pressure gradient
Authors: Padma Devi M. , Srinivas Suripeddi
Published: May 2022

The present investigation deals with the pulsating magnetohydrodynamic flow of two immiscible conducting incompressible viscous fluids in a channel filled with a porous medium, accounting for the thermal radiation effect. The problem is formulated by employing the balance of linear momentum, energy for both phases. The effects of governing flow parameters on the velocities, temperature, and stresses are studied by the perturbation method. Expressions for velocity and the temperature in both regions are obtained. Graphical results for the velocity, temperature distributions for various emerging parameters, and tabulated results for shear-stress and mass flux are presented and discussed.
Prevalence of chronic cough and patient characteristics in adults in Spain: A population-based cross-sectional survey
Authors: Domínguez-Ortega Javier , Plaza Vicente , Li Vicky W , Fonseca Eileen , Cea-Calvo Luis , Martin Ashley , Sánchez-Jareño Marta , Brady Joanne E , Schelfhout Jonathan
Published: May 2022

Background

Chronic cough (CC) represents a significant health burden. This study assessed the prevalence of CC (defined as per international guidelines as cough duration >8 weeks) in Spanish adults and compared characteristics between CC and non-CC cohorts.

Methods

CC cohorts were compiled using data from adult respondents to the 2020 Spanish cross-sectional online National Health and Wellness Survey (NHWS). Using propensity scores, respondents experiencing CC during their lifetime and the previous 12 months were matched 3:1 to respondents without CC and their health characteristics were compared. The number of Spanish adults affected with CC was estimated using weighted CC prevalence.

Results

CC during their lifetime or the previous 12 months was experienced by 579 (8.2%) and 389 (5.5%) of 7074 NHWS respondents, of whom 233 (38.5%) and 171 (44.0%), respectively, had physician-diagnosed CC. Based on weighted prevalence rates, lifetime and 12-month CC were estimated to affect ≈3.3 million and ≈2.2 million Spanish adults, respectively. Relative to the non-CC cohort, the 12-month CC cohort consistently demonstrated poorer health status, poorer mental health, greater healthcare utilization, and lower productivity at work and home.

Conclusion

This study contributes novel data regarding the prevalence of CC in Spain, suggests that CC is underdiagnosed, and reflects that CC and related comorbidities inflict a significant health burden in the affected population.
Attending to the needs of young carers in a GP consultation
Authors: Chauhan Manaal , Metcalfe Neil H
Published: May 2022

Young carers face many difficulties on a daily basis in areas such as physical health, mental health and education. By being aware of what support is available to them, we can make a positive impact on a child’s life and lessen the burden of responsibility at such a young age. It is our duty as healthcare professionals to recognise these patients, support them and allow them to flourish.
Prospective Validation of the Calgary Kids’ Hand Rule: A Clinical Prediction Rule for Pediatric Hand Fracture Triage
Authors: Baykan Altay , Hartley Rebecca L. , Ronksley Paul E. , Harrop Alan R. , Fraulin Frankie O. G.
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Pediatric hand fractures are common and routinely referred to surgeons, yet most heal well without surgical intervention. This trend inspired the development of the Calgary Kids’ Hand Rule (CKHR), a clinical prediction rule designed to predict “complex” fractures that require surgical referral. The CKHR was adapted into a checklist whereby the presence of any 1 of 6 clinically or radiologically identifiable fracture characteristics predicts a complex fracture. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of the CKHR in a prospective sample of children with hand fractures. Methods: Physicians were asked to complete the CKHR checklist when referring pediatric patients (< 18 years) to hand surgeons at a Canadian pediatric hospital (April 2019-September 2020). Completed checklists represented predicted outcomes and were compared to observed outcomes (determined via chart review). Predictive accuracy (primary outcome) was evaluated based on sensitivity and specificity. Secondary outcomes were interrater reliability between referring physicians and surgeons, and survey assessment of CKHR user satisfaction. Results: In total 365 fractures were included, with only 16 requiring surgical intervention. Overall performance of the CKHR was good with 84% sensitivity and 71% specificity. Percent agreement between referring physicians and surgeons ranged from 84.1% to 96.3% on individual predictors, with 78.1% agreement on the presence of any predictors. Survey results showed general user satisfaction but also identified areas for improvement. Conclusion: This study posits the CKHR as an accurate and clinically useful prediction rule and highlights the importance of education for its effective use and eventual scale and spread.