bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Type of terrain and infant and young child feeding practices: cross-sectional study findings on children below 2 years of age from northern Bangladesh
Authors: Farzana Fahmida Dil , Choudhury Nuzhat , Haque Md Ahshanul , Ali Mohammad , Raihan Mohammad Jyoti , Tanvir Ahmed SM , Rahman Sheikh Shahed , Siddiqua Towfida Jahan , Naz Farina , Faruque ASG , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Optimal feeding practices are vital for the subsistence, adequate nutrition, physical growth and mental development of infants and young children. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of core infant and young child feeding (IYCF) indicators and their associations with the type of terrain, that is, geographical area or zone among the beneficiaries of a large-scale nutrition programme, Suchana, being carried out in the northern part of rural Bangladesh.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2016 to February 2017 in Sylhet and Moulvibazar districts of Sylhet Division, Bangladesh. Data pertaining to 5440 children aged below 24 months were analysed for this study. Univariate analysis was carried out to establish the prevalence of the indicators; selected variables were subjected to multiple regression model to identify independent relationships between the IYCF indicators and the type of terrain stratified as plain land, hilly area, flash-flood prone area and haor (wetland).

Results

In logistic regression analysis, flash-flood prone areas were significantly associated with higher exclusive breast feeding (1.92, 95% CI 1.12 to 3.30; p=0.019), minimum meal frequency (1.45, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.97; p=0.018) and minimum dietary diversity (1.63, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.63; p=0.046) compared with plain land. Moreover, hilly areas were associated with significantly lower introduction of solid, semisolid or soft foods (0.39, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.82; p=0.013) compared with plain land.

Conclusion

The observed prevalence of the indicators can be set as benchmark while prioritising interventions aimed at improving IYCF practices among underprivileged families residing in different types of rural setting in Bangladesh.
Specialist palliative care classification: typology development
Authors: Wikert Julia , Gesell Daniela , Bausewein Claudia , Jansky Maximiliane , Nauck Friedemann , Kranz Steven , Hodiamont Farina
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The heterogeneity of specialist palliative care services requires a classification to enable a clear description and comparison. In Germany, specialist palliative care is provided by palliative care units, palliative care advisory teams in hospitals and palliative home care teams. The differentiation between the three care settings can serve as a first level of classification. However, due to profound variations in regulatory structures and financing systems, services within each setting are heterogeneous and characteristics remain unclear, which impedes quality management. Further characteristics of specialist palliative care models need to be considered to allow for differentiation. Thus, services should be described on a polyhierarchical basis, such as a typology, representing relevant characteristics. We aimed at the development of a comprehensive classification to facilitate the description and differentiation of specialist palliative care models.

Methods

Qualitative study including the development of a literature based, preliminary list of structural and processual characteristics, expert interviews and focus groups. Eleven interviews from May to June 2020 and two focus groups, with seven and nine participants each, in January 2021.

Results

Several structure and process characteristics were identified as suitable features for the specification of specialist palliative care in Germany. A classification in form of a typology including relevant characteristics has been developed.

Conclusions

The advanced typology refines the existing level of differentiation within specialist palliative care services in Germany and paves the way for an improved understanding of services. This deeper insight into structure and process characteristics of specialist palliative care is necessary internationally.
Analysis on hazard perception ability of drivers in plateau areas: by different elevations
Authors: Wang Chenzhu , Chen Fei , Zhu Jiayun , Cheng Jianchuan , Bo Wu , Zhang Ping
Published: February 2022

The low-pressure and low-oxygen environment of plateaus results in a greater workload for drivers, which contributes to the serious road safety situation in plateau areas in China. This study conducted four hazard perception experiments in Nanjing (50 m above sea level (asl)), Nyingchi (2995 m asl), Lhasa (3650 m asl), Nagqu (4460 m asl), and Yanghu Scenic Spot (4998 m asl) using UC-WIN/ROAD driving simulation software. A total of 31 drivers (23 males, 8 females) were recruited in this study, with a mean age of 28.0 years old and mean driving experience of 6.5 years. A bivariate correlation test was adopted to analyze the impacts of the elevation, age, acclimation period, gender, and driving experience on the perception–reaction time. Then, the drivers were divided into three groups (Good, Medium, and Poor) using K-means clustering. Finally, the marginal effects of the linear regression models for the three groups were calculated to augment the comparison. As expected, the elevation showed a positive correlation with the perception–reaction time but indicated a variance in influence effects in the three groups. Consistent with previous evidence, experienced drivers had better perception ability in the plateau. These findings could help in the design of high-elevation roads and guide the definition of suitability to drive in the plateau, thereby improving driving safety.
IS THERE ANY DAY-OF-THE-WEEK EFFECT AMID THE COVID-19 PANIC IN THE MALAYSIAN STOCK MARKET?
Authors: LIEW VENUS KHIM-SEN , CHIA RICKY CHEE-JIUN , RIAZ SAMINA , LAU EVAN
Published: February 2022

Using daily data from January 2, 2020 to May 31, 2021, this study empirically examines the day-of-the-week effect in the Malaysian stock market during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. We also test the impact of the lockdown policy and market sentiment index on the stock market. We resort to ordinary least square regression with generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity specification. The finding shows that the day-of-the-week effect persisted during the COVID-19 outbreak. Monday’s returns on all selected indices were negative except for the access, certainty, efficiency market. The positive impact of the lockdown policy on Bursa Malaysia is identified after accounting for the day-of-the-week effect. This is due to the market expectation that the lockdown policy can stop the spread of COVID-19, which will lead to recovery. Further analysis uncovers that smaller capitalization stocks benefited more from the government lockdown policy announcements, which come with various stimulus packages that are more favorable to smaller companies. We also find that the United States market sentiment index negatively impacts all indices. This study unlocks and validates the contribution on calendar anomalies’ response during the COVID-19 period for Malaysia. The investment opportunity is available even during the pandemic era, leading to sustainable profit in the long term.
Annihilating properties of ideals generated by coefficients of polynomials and power series
Authors: Kim Nam Kyun , Lee Yang , Ziembowski Michał
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we study the annihilating properties of ideals generated by coefficients of polynomials and power series which satisfy a structural equation. We first show that if [Formula: see text] for polynomials [Formula: see text] over any ring [Formula: see text], then for any [Formula: see text], there exist positive integers [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], whenever [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Next we prove that if [Formula: see text] for power series [Formula: see text] over any ring [Formula: see text], then for any [Formula: see text], there exist positive integers [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] when [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] for each [Formula: see text].
ΔDMCx2: A New Approach to Measure Contagion Effect on Financial Crisis
Authors: Guedes E. F. , de Castro A. P. N. , da Silva Filho A. M. , Zebende G. F.
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we implemented a new approach of measuring contagion effect on financial crisis based on the Detrended Multiple Cross-Correlation Coefficient, [Formula: see text], with a statistical test to assess its significance. Our study is restricted to the particular case in which three stock indexes are analyzed at the same time, with the results being divided into simulated and empirical cases. The simulated case was important to present the probability distribution function of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, as well as confidence intervals for [Formula: see text]. The empirical case presents [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for fourteen stock market indexes in the subprime crisis. With these applications, our study defines contagion effect on the financial system where crisis effect was perceived. In general, our results show the statistical significance of [Formula: see text], while measure of contagion effect depends on the size of the series and the time scale evaluated.
Tunable volume memory poly(acrylic acid sodium) hydrogel by metal ionsd
Authors: Wang Changchun , Yang Yonglin
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the volume memory effect of poly(acrylic acid sodium) (PAAS) in different salt solutions, such as Na2SO4, MgSO4, Al2(SO[Formula: see text], is investigated. The degree of shrinkage and shrinkage rate is related to the valence of metal ions and the ionic strength of a salt solution. Multivalent ions can chelate with carboxyl groups of PAAS and form a second network in the covalently cross-linked PAAS. The metal–ligand coordination as a physical network significantly increases the ultimate compressive stress, compressive modulus, and fracture strain of the hydrogel. The ultimate compressive stress of the hydrogel chelated by Mg[Formula: see text] ions increases from 35 KPa to 24.1 MPa, an increase of nearly 690 times.
Social Momentum: Design and Evaluation of a Framework for Socially Competent Robot Navigation
Authors: Mavrogiannis Christoforos , Alves-Oliveira Patrícia , Thomason Wil , Knepper Ross A.
Published: February 2022

Mobile robots struggle to integrate seamlessly in crowded environments such as pedestrian scenes, often disrupting human activity. One obstacle preventing their smooth integration is our limited understanding of how humans may perceive and react to robot motion. Motivated by recent studies highlighting the benefits of intent-expressive motion for robots operating close to humans, we describe Social Momentum (SM), a planning framework for legible robot motion generation in multiagent domains. We investigate the properties of motion generated by SM via two large-scale user studies: an online, video-based study (
N
= 180) focusing on the legibility of motion produced by SM and a lab study (
N
= 105) focusing on the perceptions of users navigating next to a robot running SM in a crowded space. Through statistical and thematic analyses of collected data, we present evidence suggesting that (a) motion generated by SM enables quick inference of the robot’s navigation strategy; (b) humans navigating close to a robot running SM follow comfortable, low-acceleration paths; and (c) robot motion generated by SM is positively perceived and indistinguishable from a teleoperated baseline. Through the discussion of experimental insights and lessons learned, this article aspires to inform future algorithmic and experimental design for social robot navigation.
Have I Got the Power? Analysing and Reporting Statistical Power in HRI
Authors: Bartlett Madeleine E. , Edmunds C. E. R. , Belpaeme Tony , Thill Serge
Published: February 2022

This article presents a discussion of the importance of power analyses, providing an overview of when power analyses should be run in the context of the field of Human-Robot Interaction, as well as some examples of how to perform a power analysis. This work was motivated by the observation that the majority of papers published in the proceedings of recent HRI conferences did not report conducting a power analysis; an observation that has concerning implications for many conclusions drawn by these studies. This work is intended to raise awareness and encourage researchers to conduct power analyses when designing research studies using human participants.
Feasibility and Validity of Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery in Mild Cognitive Impairment Screening for Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Wang Jia , Lai Yiwei , Jiang Chao , Bai Yu , Xu Baolei , Du Xin , Dong Jianzeng , Ma Changsheng
Published: February 2022

Background. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with the worsening of cognitive function. Strategies that are both convenient and reliable for cognitive screening of AF patients remain underdeveloped. We aimed to analyze the sensitivity and specificity of computerized cognitive screening strategies using subtests from Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) in AF patients. Methods. The Multitasking Test (MTT), Rapid Visual Information Processing (RVP), and Paired Associates Learning (PAL) subtests from CANTAB were performed in 105 AF patients. Traditional standard neuropsychological tests were used as a reference standard. Cognitive screening models using different CANTAB subtests were established using multivariable logistic regression. Further stepwise regression using the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) was applied to optimize the models. Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were used to study the sensitivity and specificity of these models. Results. Fifty-eight (55%) patients were diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MTT alone had reasonable sensitivity (82.8%) and specificity (74.5%) for MCI screening, while RVP (sensitivity 72.4%, specificity 70.2%) and PAL (sensitivity 70.7%, specificity 57.4%) were less effective. Stepwise regression of all available variables revealed that a combination of MTT and RVP brought about higher specificity (sensitivity 82.8%, specificity 85.8%), while PAL was not included in the optimal model. Moreover, adding education to the models did not result in improved validity for MCI screening. Conclusion. The CANTAB subtests are feasible and effective strategies for MCI screening among AF patients independent of patients’ education levels. Hence, they are practical for cardiologists or general practitioners.
The Impact of Intellectual Capital on Bank Profitability during COVID‐19: A Comparison with China and Pakistan
Authors: Xu Jian , Haris Muhammad , Irfan Muhammad
Published: February 2022

This study aims to examine how the relationship between intellectual capital (IC) and bank profitability changed during COVID‐19. Based on the data of 34 Chinese banks and 39 Pakistani banks, this study uses ordinary least squares (OLS) to examine this relationship during the COVID‐19 era. Profitability is measured by return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE), and IC is measured by the value added intellectual coefficient (VAIC) model. The findings show that, even during the COVID‐19 pandemic, IC has managed to sustain its positive influence on bank profitability in China and Pakistan. Among IC components, our study reports that human capital is the only IC resource that continues to enhance ROA and ROE of Chinese and Pakistani banks during the pandemic period. Our study suggests that policymakers should pay more attention to IC resources, which has the potential to improve banks’ profitability even during crisis times.
Study on the Mental Health of the Elderly under Different Pension Models
Authors: Song Jun , Yang Lei , Han Mingfei , Wu Ying
Published: February 2022

Objective. To compare the mental health status of the elderly under different pension modes and to provide evidence for improving institutional services and the quality of life of the elderly. Methods. A total of 118 elderly people in social welfare homes, nursing homes, and elderly welfare centers in D city and 165 elderly people from families in D city were assessed by self-made questionnaire, Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), activities of daily living scale (ADL), and social support rating scale (SSRS). Results. The total scores of mental health and self, emotion, and adaptation subscales in the social group were higher than those in the home group, with a significant difference

p
>
0.05

. The scores of cognitive and interpersonal subscales in the home group were higher than those in the social group, but the differences were not significant

p
>
0.05

. Under the mode of family pension and social institution pension, the health status of the elderly has certain differences. The elderly in different old-age care modes have good performance in diet and sleep, and there is no statistical difference between them

p
>
0.05

. Conclusion. The investigation shows that the mental health status of the elderly under the family pension model is obviously better than that under the social institution pension model.
Canvas Model as a Tool for Research Projects: A Theoretical Approach
Authors: Socorro Márquez Félix O. , Reyes Ortiz Giovanni E.
Published: February 2022

The main aim of this study is to offer an easy and practical research model to guide the research activity of students and thereby reduce the syndrome of ABD (All but Dissertation) and, at the same time, make it easier for evaluators to visualize the development of research projects to guide students more efficiently. The Canvas model proposed by Osterwalder and Pigneur in 2011—for the formulation of business plans—has been the source of inspiration for the instrument proposed by the authors of this study. That model has been adjusted and reformulated by the researchers for the development, synthesis, and presentation of the research projects in the academic field, resulting in the proposal of the Canvas Model for Research Projects (CMRP). For developing this instrument, the researchers have mainly used a qualitative methodology, although part of the analysis and proposals reflected in this study come from a brief empirical trial carried out with a small group of students to validate the configuration and utility of the ten elements that make up the proposed model. The result—both the documentary review, which served as the basis for the combination and distribution of the components of the proposed model, and the brief trial carried out by the researchers—allowed us to observe, in a first approach, the usefulness of the instrument in the preparation of research projects and its utility as an evaluation tool of academic research projects.
Participatory Landslide Inventory (PLI): An Online Tool for the Development of a Landslide Inventory
Authors: Perera E. N. C. , Gunaratne A.M.C.T. , Samarasinghe S.B.D.
Published: February 2022

A landslide inventory is a detailed register of the spatial distribution, geometry, and attributes of landslides and is essential for landslide hazard analysis, risk management, regional planning, and land use management and development, especially in landslide‐prone regions. However, the development of a national landslide inventory is time‐consuming and costly. Accordingly, most developing countries, including Sri Lanka, have basic landslide databases, which identify the location, date, and time of occurrence on a point map. This study, therefore, aimed to introduce a new method to report landslide information via a mobile application based on a participatory approach with information recorded in a web portal called the participatory landslide inventory (PLI). Twenty‐one landslide site locations and their attributes were captured on the PLI web portal using the PLI mobile app. The system administrator then demarcated the landslide boundaries and performed geometrical calculations for each landslide to complete the inventory. Finally, the landslide information was published through the PLI web portal. The PLI is an effective and efficient tool for developing a landslide inventory economically.
A Rapid Combined Model for Automatic Generating Web UI Codes
Authors: Zhang Wei , Luan Shangmin , Tian Liqin
Published: February 2022

Encoder-Decoder network is usually applied to image caption to automatically generate descriptive text for a picture. Web user interface (Web UI) is a special type of image and is usually described by HTML (hypertext marked language). Consequently, it becomes possible to use the encoder-decoder network to generate the corresponding code from a screenshot of Web UI. The basic structure of the decoder is RNN, LSTM, GRU, or other recurrent neural networks. However, this kind of decoder needs a long training time, so it increases the time complexity of training and prediction. The HTML language is a typically structured language to describe the Web UI, but it is hard to express the timing characteristics of the word sequence and the complex context. To resolve these problems efficiently, a rapid combined model RCM (rapid combined model) is designed in this paper. The basic structure of the RCM is an encoder-decoder network. The word embedding matrix and visual model are included in the encoder. The word embedding matrix uses fully connected units. Compared with LSTM, the accuracy of the word embedding matrix is basically unchanged, but the training and prediction speed have been significantly improved. In the visual model, the pretrained InceptionV3 network is used to generate the image vector, which not only improves the quality of the recognition of the Web UI interface image but also reduces the training time of the RCM significantly. In the decoder, the word embedding vector and the image vector are integrated together and input into the prediction model for word prediction.
Effect of pH on Escherichia coli Removal by Electrocoagulation and Elimination Kinetics after Treatment
Authors: Ndjomgoue-Yossa A. C. , Nanseu-Njiki C. P. , Ngameni E.
Published: February 2022

There are different techniques for removing microorganisms in wastewater, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Electrocoagulation because of its simplicity has gained great attention and is used for the removal of various ions, organic matters, and microorganisms. In this study, the effectiveness and mechanism of Escherichia coli (E. coli) removal by electrocoagulation process using aluminum and ordinary steel electrodes at different initial-pH and the kinetics of elimination of E. coli in solution after treatment were investigated. Artificial wastewater contaminated by E. coli culture was used in the experiments. The results show that the initial-pH influences significantly the effectiveness of E. coli removal. Under the experimental conditions used, more than 5 log removal of E. coli is obtained, irrespective of the nature of the electrode (ordinary steel or aluminum) and the value of the initial pH. On the one hand, the best rates of elimination are obtained for solutions that are slightly acidic (pH 5.5) and for an alkaline pH (8.5 and 10). On the other hand, the elimination decreases for a neutral solution and for a very acidic solution (pH 2.9) because of the strong resistance developed by E. coli at those pH values. For optimal treatment, the choice of electrode material depends on the initial pH. Furthermore, the study of the kinetics of elimination of E. coli after treatment shows the remanent power of the electrocoagulation process. It allows reducing treatment time and energy consumption, thus reducing the cost of treatment.
Biliary Adenofibroma: A Rare Liver Tumor with Transition to Invasive Carcinoma
Authors: Alshbib Ayham , Grzyb Krzysztof , Syversveen Trygve , Reims Henrik Mikael , Lassen Kristoffer , Yaqub Sheraz
Published: February 2022

Biliary adenofibroma is a rare benign liver tumor with potential for malignant transition. It has a bile duct origin characterized by a complex tubulocystic biliary epithelium with fibrous stroma. MRI features may suggest this uncommon entity, and histological findings can be diagnostic. We report a case of biliary adenofibroma with transformation to an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.
Effects of Stiffener Type on Fatigue Resistance of Steel‐UHPC Composite Bridge Decks
Authors: Sun Xiugui , Hu Jianhua , Li Yu , Huang Guoping
Published: February 2022

Recent research showed that ultrahigh‐performance concrete (UHPC) and orthotropic steel bridge decks could be integrated to form steel‐UHPC composite sections offering superior load‐carrying capacity and fatigue resistance. This study investigates the effects of longitudinal stiffener types on the fatigue resistance of steel‐UHPC composite sections. Three types of longitudinal stiffeners were compared, including U‐ribs, bulb flat ribs, and plate ribs. Finite element analysis and full‐scale fatigue tests were performed to investigate the load‐carrying capacity and fatigue resistance of the composite bridge decks with different stiffeners. Besides, the proposed steel‐UHPC composite bridge decks were compared with conventional orthotropic steel decks. The results show that steel box girders with bulb flat rib composite deck have reasonable fatigue resistance, construction efficiency, and economic benefits. This study is expected to promote the design and evaluation of economic steel‐UHPC composite bridge decks to achieve higher mechanical performance and long‐term durability.
A Mutiparameter Joint Estimation Algorithm for Dual-Polarized Cylindrical Conformal Array in the Presence of Mutual Coupling
Authors: Liu Chao , Zhou Feiyang
Published: February 2022

In this article, we proposed a multiparameter joint estimation algorithm based on the dual-polarized cylindrical conformal array (DCCA) in the presence of mutual coupling. Using the characteristic of the dual-polarized cylindrical conformal array, 2D direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation can be divided into 1D estimations of elevation and azimuth. Sensors on the boundary of the DCCA are set as auxiliary sensors to eliminate the influence of mutual coupling. Then, elevation can be estimated by the generalized eigenvalues utilizing signal subspace eigenvectors (GEESE). After that, polarization sensitivity can be eliminated by projection transformation and the proposed dual-polarized forward-backward smoothing algorithm. Consequently, a dual-polarized spatial spectrum can be developed to estimate the azimuth based on the estimated elevation. Furthermore, the angles of the signals can be reestimated to improve the accuracy of DOA estimation. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Ethyl Extract of Blaps rynchopetera Fairmaire Ameliorates Experimental Aerobic Vaginitis by Inhibiting Autophagy Activation
Authors: Liu Jia , Yuan Siyi , Zhao Zhiming , Lu Huixia
Published: February 2022

To investigate the therapeutic effects of Blaps rynchopetera Fairmaire (BRF) extracts on the autophagy activation in a rat model of aerobic vaginitis (AV), forty-eight adult female SD rats of the AV model were divided into five groups according to different treatments with the cream matrix, antibiotics (clindamycin phosphate, 20 mg/g), low-concentration extracts (100 mg/g), medium-concentration extracts (200 mg/g), or high-concentration extracts (300 mg/g). Two weeks after treatment, we conducted a series of assays, including measuring the improved Donders score and pH value of vaginal secretions, H&E staining, immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, western blotting, and ELISA, for evaluating the protein expression of autophagy biomarkers Beclin1 and LC3B. In vitro, BRF ethyl extracts had the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). After administration in AV rats, the improved Donders score, pH value, and vaginal histopathology score of vaginal secretions in the model and low-concentration groups were not statistically different from those in the normal group. In contrast, these indicators improved significantly in other treatment groups, especially in the high-concentration group. Additionally, when compared to the normal group, IHC, western blot, and ELISA revealed no statistically significant difference in the expressions of Beclin1 and LC3B in the model and low-concentration groups, but decreased to varying degrees in the clindamycin, medium-concentration, and high-concentration groups, with no correlation between Beclin1 and LC3B. Medium- and high-concentration BRF ethyl extracts effectively treated AV in rats by inhibiting excessive autophagy activation and could be applied in the clinic future.
MicroPulse Transscleral Laser Therapy Demonstrates Similar Efficacy with a Superior and More Favorable Safety Profile Compared to Continuous-Wave Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation
Authors: Bernardi Enrico , Töteberg-Harms Marc
Published: February 2022

Purpose. The aim of this study was to compare effectiveness and safety of MicroPulse transscleral laser therapy (MP-TLT) using the original MicroPulse P3® device and continuous-wave transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (CW-TSCPC) using the G-Probe® device in glaucoma. Methods. Spherical equivalent, intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and number of topical or oral ophthalmic pressure-reducing medications were registered at every time point, up to the last follow-up at 12 months. A complete slit-lamp examination was conducted to record the following complications: corneal edema, persistent ocular hypotony (IOP ≤5 mmHg) on two consecutive follow-up visits, choroidal detachment, phthisis bulbi, sympathetic ophthalmia, cystoid macular edema, or other abnormal ocular findings. Success was defined as IOP between 6 and 21 mmHg and >20% reduction in IOP with or without antiglaucoma medications. Results. 47 eyes underwent MP-TLT and 150 CW-TSCPC. At 12 months, success was achieved in 88.6% in the CW-TSCPC group and 87.5% in the MP-TLT group (

p

 = 0.883). In the CW-TSCPC group, eyes achieved a 42.4% IOP reduction (from 28.3 ± 12.3 mmHg to 15.3 ± 6.0 mmHg) and a 31.1% reduction (from 22.0 ± 7.2 mmHg to 15.7 ± 4.8 mmHg) in the MP-TLT group. Visual acuity remained primarily unaltered in both groups. Conclusion. MP-TLT was as effective in lowering IOP as CW-TSCPC and achieved comparable success. Additionally, MP-TLT demonstrated consistent and effective outcomes at every time point. The improved safety profile of MP-TLT allows the therapeutic spectrum to be broadened, granting ophthalmologists’ treatment of glaucoma in earlier stages of glaucoma than those typically treated with CW-TSCPC, i.e., early to moderate and to patients with good central-vision.
An Iterative Algorithm for Solving Fixed Point Problems and Quasimonotone Variational Inequalities
Authors: Yin Tzu-Chien , Wu Yan-Kuen , Wen Ching-Feng
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we survey a common problem of the fixed point problem and the quasimonotone variational inequality problem in Hilbert spaces. We suggest an iterative algorithm for finding a common element of the solution of a quasimonotone variational inequality and the fixed point of a pseudocontractive operator. Convergence theorems are shown under some mild conditions. Several corollaries are also obtained.
Some Existence Results for a System of Nonlinear Sequential Fractional Differential Equations with Coupled Nonseparated Boundary Conditions
Authors: Awadalla Muath
Published: February 2022

This article concerns with the existence and uniqueness theory of solutions for sequential fractional differential system involving Caputo fractional derivatives of order 1<alpha, beta<2 with coupled nonseparated boundary conditions. The standard tools of the fixed point theory were used to establish the main results. Application is introduced to show the validity of our results.
Spatial Differentiation and Influencing Factors of the Green Development of Cities along the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Chen Yu , Su Xuyang , Zhou Qian
Published: February 2022

The traditional development model of high consumption and low efficiency approaches the threshold of resource and environmental carrying capacity, bringing a series of severe social and ecological environmental problems, and it is urgent to realize green development transformation. Based on a multidimensional perspective, this paper constructed a comprehensive evaluation system for urban green development along the Yellow River Basin (YRB). Entropy method, exploratory spatial data analysis (ESDA) model, and trend analysis were used to measure and characterize the spatiotemporal evolution of urban green development index (UGDI) along the YRB in 2008, 2013, and 2018, and geographically weighted regression (GWR) model was used to explore the influencing factors of urban green development. The results are as follows: (1) the UGDI along the YRB showed a slow upward trend, but the absolute value was relatively low, mainly concentrated in 0.2699–0.3799. (2) The UGDI had obvious regional differences, and cities such as Baotou and Zibo showed a “high‐high” agglomeration, while most cities in the midstream showed a “low‐low” agglomeration, and in terms of space, they were “high in the east and west, low in the middle” and “high in the north and low in the south.” (3) Influencing factors had different degrees of impact on the UGDI. Economic, industrial, urbanization, and green infrastructure factors played a positive role in promoting the urban green development, while the relationship between governance, technological factors, and green development varies from city to city.
Sizing and Mission Profile Analysis of the Hybrid-Electric Propulsion System for Retrofitting a Fixed Wing VTOL Aircraft
Authors: Zong Jianan , Zhu Bingjie , Hou Zhongxi , Yang Xixiang , Zhai Jiaqi
Published: February 2022

Hybrid-electric technology can be expected to improve the performance of fixed wing vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. In this paper, we demonstrated a method of retrofitting a single-energy propulsion system prototype with a hybrid-electric propulsion system. Since the hybrid-electric system has several working modes, the optimal design results have strong coupling with mission performance. Therefore, we propose an analysis method of the mission profile to determine the design point. Finally, the payload-range sensitivity is studied. The results show that the hybrid-electric propulsion system can greatly increase the mission profile of aircraft. The analysis method of the mission profile also provides perspective for the hybrid-electric propulsion system design.
Clinical Performance of the BD Onclarity Extended Genotyping Assay for the Management of Women Positive for Human Papillomavirus in Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Volesky Karena D. , Magnan Sindy , Mayrand Marie-Hélène , Isidean Sandra D. , El-Zein Mariam , Comète Emilie , Franco Eduardo L. , Coutlée François
Published: February 2022

Background:

Among women whose cervical specimens tested positive for high-risk human papillomaviruses (hrHPV) via the Hybrid Capture 2 assay in the Canadian Cervical Cancer Screening Trial (CCCaST), we assessed hrHPV genotype concordance between BD Onclarity HPV Assay and Roche's Linear Array, overall and stratified by hrHPV viral load. We also evaluated the performance of cytology, cytology combined with hrHPV genotyping (Onclarity assay) for HPV16/18 and non-HPV16/18 types, and hrHPV genotyping triage strategies for the detection of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 or 3 and worse (CIN2+/CIN3+).

Methods:

Standard measures (expected agreement, agreement, and κ values) were used to compare Onclarity to the reference test, Linear Array. Twenty-four triage strategies were evaluated by calculating their sensitivities, specificities, and positive and negative predictive values for CIN2+ and CIN3+ detection.

Results:

Among 734 hrHPV+ samples tested, there was near perfect concordance irrespective of viral load between the Onclarity and Linear Array assays for the individual genotypes [human papillomaviruses (HPV) 16, 18, 31, 45, 51, 52] by Onclarity (κ values ranged from 0.92–0.98). Strategies with adequate specificity (>75%) and the highest sensitivities to detect CIN3+ among 617 women positive for hrHPV, were positivity to HPV16 and/or 31 (Sensitivity: 65.2%, Specificity: 76.9%) and HPV16 and/or 18 (Sensitivity: 58.7%, Specificity: 81.6%).

Conclusions:

While confirming the importance of HPV16, we found that HPV31 was comparable with HPV18 for the detection of CIN2/3+ in the triage of women positive for hrHPV.

Impact:

HPV31 may be an important genotype in the triage of women positive for hrHPV.
A First-in-Human, Phase I, Multicenter, Open-Label, Dose-Escalation Study of PCA062: An Antibody–Drug Conjugate Targeting P-Cadherin, in Patients With Solid Tumors
Authors: Duca Matteo , Lim Darren Wan-Teck , Subbiah Vivek , Takahashi Shunji , Sarantopoulos John , Varga Andrea , D'Alessio Joseph A. , Abrams Tinya , Sheng Qing , Tan Eugene Youchin , Rosa Maria Santos , Gonzalez-Maffe Juan , Sand-Dejmek Janna , Fabre Claire , Martin Miguel
Published: February 2022

This first-in-human (FIH), phase I, multicenter, open-label study was conducted to characterize the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary efficacy, and to establish the MTD/recommended dose for expansion (RDE) of PCA062 in patients with solid tumors. Adult patients with any solid tumor type and having a documented P-cadherin–positive tumor were enrolled; exceptions to P-cadherin positivity requirement were head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Dose escalation was guided by an adaptive Bayesian logistic regression model with escalation with overdose control to determine the MTD/RDE.

Forty-seven patients were treated at 10 different dose levels of PCA062, ranging from 0.4 to 5.0 mg/kg every 2 weeks administered as a 1-hour intravenous infusion. All enrolled patients discontinued the treatment; primary reason for discontinuation was progressive disease (78.7%). All 47 patients experienced at least one AE, of which 32 patients had a grade ≥3 AE and 37 patients experienced AEs suspected to be study drug related. The MTD of PCA062 was 3.6 mg/kg every 2 weeks and thrombocytopenia was reported as a DLT that was attributed to the known toxicities of the DM1 payload with no P-cadherin–related toxicities. Pharmacokinetics was proportional, and no patients developed antidrug antibodies, suggesting adequate exposure at the doses tested. One patient of 47 achieved a partial response and there was no correlation between tumor P-cadherin expression and clinical efficacy. Because of limited antitumor activity at the MTD level, Novartis has terminated clinical development of PCA062 (NCT02375958).
Zenocutuzumab, a HER2xHER3 Bispecific Antibody, Is Effective Therapy for Tumors Driven by NRG1 Gene Rearrangements
Authors: Schram Alison M. , Odintsov Igor , Espinosa-Cotton Madelyn , Khodos Inna , Sisso Whitney J. , Mattar Marissa S. , Lui Allan J.W. , Vojnic Morana , Shameem Sara H. , Chauhan Thrusha , Torrisi Jean , Ford Jim , O'Connor Marie N. , Geuijen Cecile A.W. , Schackmann Ron C.J. , Lammerts van Bueren Jeroen J. , Wasserman Ernesto , de Stanchina Elisa , O'Reilly Eileen M. , Ladanyi Marc , Drilon Alexander , Somwar Romel
Published: February 2022

NRG1 rearrangements are recurrent oncogenic drivers in solid tumors. NRG1 binds to HER3, leading to heterodimerization with other HER/ERBB kinases, increased downstream signaling, and tumorigenesis. Targeting ERBBs, therefore, represents a therapeutic strategy for these cancers. We investigated zenocutuzumab (Zeno; MCLA-128), an antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity–enhanced anti-HER2xHER3 bispecific antibody, in NRG1 fusion–positive isogenic and patient-derived cell lines and xenograft models. Zeno inhibited HER3 and AKT phosphorylation, induced expression of apoptosis markers, and inhibited growth. Three patients with chemotherapy-resistant NRG1 fusion–positive metastatic cancer were treated with Zeno. Two patients with ATP1B1–NRG1–positive pancreatic cancer achieved rapid symptomatic, biomarker, and radiographic responses and remained on treatment for over 12 months. A patient with CD74–NRG1-positive non–small cell lung cancer who had progressed on six prior lines of systemic therapy, including afatinib, responded rapidly to treatment with a partial response. Targeting HER2 and HER3 simultaneously with Zeno is a novel therapeutic paradigm for patients with NRG1 fusion–positive cancers.

Significance:

NRG1 rearrangements encode chimeric ligands that activate the ERBB receptor tyrosine kinase family. Here we show that targeting HER2 and HER3 simultaneously with the bispecific antibody Zeno leads to durable clinical responses in patients with NRG1 fusion–positive cancers and is thus an effective therapeutic strategy.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1171
Clinical Utility of the Electrocardiographic P-Wave Axis in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Otake Shiro , Chubachi Shotaro , Nakayama Shingo , Sakurai Kaori , Irie Hidehiro , Hashiguchi Mizuha , Itabashi Yuji , Yamada Yoshitake , Jinzaki Masahiro , Murata Mitsuru , Nakamura Hidetoshi , Asano Koichiro , Fukunaga Koichi
Published: February 2022

Background: The vertical P-wave axis on electrocardiography (ECG) is a useful criterion for screening patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of patients with COPD with a vertical P-wave axis as they have not yet been elucidated. Methods: Keio University and its affiliated hospitals conducted an observational COPD cohort study over 3 years. We analyzed 201 patients using ECG and chest computed tomography. Results: The severity of airflow limitation was higher in patients with a P-wave axis >75° than in those with a P-wave axis ≤75°. Patients with a P-wave axis >75° exhibited significantly higher total COPD assessment test scores and increased St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire total, activity, and impact scores than those with a P-wave axis ≤75°. The incidence of exacerbations over 1 and 3 years was significantly higher in patients with a P-wave axis >75° than in those with a P-wave axis ≤75°. The optimal cutoff for the P-wave axis for a percentage of the predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s <50% and future exacerbations over 3 years was 70° (the areas under the curve [AUC]: 0.788; sensitivity: 65.3%; specificity: 78.3%) and 79° (AUC: 0.642; sensitivity: 36.7%; specificity: 92.6%). The ratio of the low attenuation area was also significantly higher in patients with a P-wave axis >75° than in those with a P-wave axis ≤75°. However, the ratio of the airway wall area did not differ between the 2 groups. Conclusions: Patients with COPD with a vertical P-wave axis exhibited severe airflow limitation and emphysema, a worse health status, and more frequent exacerbation than patients without a vertical P-wave. Detection of the vertical P-wave axis by ECG is beneficial for the management of patients with COPD.
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Analysis in Syndromic and Nonsyndromic Forms of Retinitis Pigmentosa due to USH2A Genetic Variants
Authors: Colombo Leonardo , Maltese Paolo Enrico , Romano Dario , Fogagnolo Paolo , Castori Marco , Marceddu Giuseppe , Cristofoli Francesca , Percio Marcella , Piteková Barbora , Modarelli Antonio Mattia , Bertelli Matteo , Rossetti Luca
Published: February 2022

Introduction: This study aimed to analyze macular structure by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in a cohort of patients affected by autosomal recessive retinitis pigmentosa and Usher syndrome, due to genetic variants in USH2A gene, and to correlate optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters with functional and genetic data. Methods: The subjects of this study were 92 patients, 46 syndromic (Usher syndrome type IIa [Ush2]) and 46 nonsyndromic (autosomal recessive RP [arRP]), with clinical and genetic diagnosis of USH2A-related retinal dystrophy, who underwent a complete ophthalmic examination and spectral-domain OCT analysis. The study focused on evaluating the differences between the 2 groups in the following parameters: best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ellipsoid zone (EZ) width, presence of epiretinal membrane (ERM), and cystic macular lesions (CMLs). Variants in USH2A gene were divided into 3 categories, according to the expected impact (low/high) at protein level of the different variants on each allele. Results: BCVA and EZ width were significantly lower in Ush2 than in arRP patients (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001). ERM was detected in 34.8% (16/46) of arRP patients and in 65.2% (30/46) of Ush2 patients (p = 0.003). CML was detected in 17.4% (8/46) of arRP patients and 30.4% (14/46) of Ush2 patients (p = 0.14). The allelic distribution was statistically different (p = 0.0003) by dividing the 2 diseases: for Ush2 patients it was 45.7% (high/high), 39.1% (low/high) and 15.2% (low/low); for arRP patients it was 8.7% (high/high), 56.5% (low/high), and 34.8% (low/low). The severity class of the variants significantly affected visual acuity and EZ width parameters (p = 0.004 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusion: Retinal disease, as evaluated by means of SD-OCT, shows more advanced degeneration signs in the syndromic than the nonsyndromic form of retinal dystrophy related to USH2A gene. Variant types and allelic profiles are determining factors for the onset of syndromic features. However, since the 3 allelic profiles can be found in both Usher and RP patients, other factors must necessarily play a determining role.
Peritoneal Expression of SGLT-2, GLUT1, and GLUT3 in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Schricker Severin , Oberacker Tina , Fritz Peter , Ketteler Markus , Alscher Mark Dominik , Schanz Moritz
Published: February 2022

Introduction: In peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, the peritoneal membrane is affected by glucose-based solutions used as peritoneal dialysate fluids. This exposure leads to changes of the membrane which may eventually culminate in fibrosis and method failure. In vitro or animal studies demonstrated that glucose transporters are upregulated upon exposure to these solutions. Expression studies of glucose transporters in human peritoneum have not been reported yet. Methods: Expression of SGLT-2, GLUT1, and GLUT3 in human peritoneal biopsies was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. The localization of these glucose transporters in the peritoneum was evaluated by immunohistochemistry using a Histo-Score. Results: Peritoneal biopsies of patients (healthy controls, uremic, PD, and encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis [EPS]) were analyzed. We found evidence of SGLT-2, GLUT1, and GLUT3 expression in the peritoneal membrane. Protein expression of SGLT-2 increases with PD duration and is significantly enhanced in EPS patients. All transporters were predominantly, but not exclusively, located adjacent to the vessel walls of the peritoneal membrane. Conclusion: Our study showed that SGLT-2, GLUT1, and GLUT3 were regularly expressed in the human peritoneum. SGLT-2 was particularly upregulated in PD patients with EPS, suggesting that this upregulation may be associated with pathological changes in the peritoneal membrane in this syndrome. Since preclinical studies in mice show that SGLT-2 inhibitors or downregulation of SGLT-2 ameliorated pathological changes in the peritoneum, SGLT-2 inhibitors may be potentially promising agents for therapy in PD patients that could reduce glucose absorption and delay functional deterioration of the peritoneal membrane in the long term.