bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjusting for collider bias in genetic association studies using instrumental variable methods
Authors: Cai Siyang , Hartley April , Mahmoud Osama , Tilling Kate , Dudbridge Frank
Published: May 2022

Genome‐wide association studies have provided many genetic markers that can be used as instrumental variables to adjust for confounding in epidemiological studies. Recently, the principle has been applied to other forms of bias in observational studies, especially collider bias that arises when conditioning or stratifying on a variable that is associated with the outcome of interest. An important case is in studies of disease progression and survival. Here, we clarify the links between the genetic instrumental variable methods proposed for this problem and the established methods of Mendelian randomisation developed to account for confounding. We highlight the critical importance of weak instrument bias in this context and describe a corrected weighted least‐squares procedure as a simple approach to reduce this bias. We illustrate the range of available methods on two data examples. The first, waist–hip ratio adjusted for body‐mass index, entails statistical adjustment for a quantitative trait. The second, smoking cessation, is a stratified analysis conditional on having initiated smoking. In both cases, we find little effect of collider bias on the primary association results, but this may propagate into more substantial effects on further analyses such as polygenic risk scoring and Mendelian randomisation.
Left amygdala structure mediates longitudinal associations between exposure to threat and long‐term psychiatric symptomatology in youth
Authors: Picci Giorgia , Taylor Brittany K. , Killanin Abraham D. , Eastman Jacob A. , Frenzel Michaela R. , Wang Yu‐Ping , Stephen Julia M. , Calhoun Vince D. , Wilson Tony W.
Published: May 2022

Traumatic experiences during childhood can have profound effects on stress sensitive brain structures (e.g., amygdala and hippocampus) and the emergence of psychiatric symptoms. Recent theoretical and empirical work has delineated dimensions of trauma (i.e., threat and deprivation) as having distinct neural and behavioral effects, although there are few longitudinal examinations. A sample of 243 children and adolescents were followed for three time points, with each assessment approximately 1 year apart (ages 9–15 years at Time 1; 120 males). Participants or their caregiver reported on youths' threat exposure, perceived stress (Time 1), underwent a T1‐weighted structural high‐resolution MRI scan (Time 2), and documented their subsequent psychiatric symptoms later in development (Time 3). The primary findings indicate that left amygdala volume, in particular, mediated the longitudinal association between threat exposure and subsequent internalizing and externalizing symptomatology. Greater threat exposure related to reduced left amygdala volume, which in turn differentially predicted internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Decreased bilateral hippocampal volume was related to subsequently elevated internalizing symptoms. These findings suggest that the left amygdala is highly threat‐sensitive and that stress‐related alterations may partially explain elevated psychopathology in stress‐exposed adolescents. Uncovering potential subclinical and/or preclinical predictive biomarkers is essential to understanding the emergence, progression, and eventual targeted treatment of psychopathology following trauma exposure.
Whole‐brain dynamics differentiate among cisgender and transgender individuals
Authors: Uribe Carme , Escrichs Anira , de Filippi Eleonora , Sanz‐Perl Yonatan , Junque Carme , Gomez‐Gil Esther , Kringelbach Morten L. , Guillamon Antonio , Deco Gustavo
Published: May 2022

How the brain represents gender identity is largely unknown, but some neural differences have recently been discovered. We used an intrinsic ignition framework to investigate whether there are gender differences in the propagation of neural activity across the whole‐brain and within resting‐state networks. Studying 29 trans men and 17 trans women with gender incongruence, 22 cis women, and 19 cis men, we computed the capability of a given brain area in space to propagate activity to other areas (mean‐ignition), and the variability across time for each brain area (node‐metastability). We found that both measurements differentiated all groups across the whole brain. At the network level, we found that compared to the other groups, cis men showed higher mean‐ignition of the dorsal attention network and node‐metastability of the dorsal and ventral attention, executive control, and temporal parietal networks. We also found higher mean‐ignition values in cis men than in cis women within the executive control network, but higher mean‐ignition in cis women than cis men and trans men for the default mode. Node‐metastability was higher in cis men than cis women in the somatomotor network, while both mean‐ignition and node‐metastability were higher for cis men than trans men in the limbic network. Finally, we computed correlations between these measurements and a body image satisfaction score. Trans men's dissatisfaction as well as cis men's and cis women's satisfaction toward their own body image were distinctively associated with specific networks in each group. Overall, the study of the whole‐brain network dynamical complexity discriminates gender identity groups, functional dynamic approaches could help disentangle the complex nature of the gender dimension in the brain.
The moderating effects of CEO power and personal traits on say‐on‐pay effectiveness: Insights from the Anglo‐Saxon economies
Authors: Joura Essam , Xiao Qin , Ullah Subhan
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the efficacy of say‐on‐pay (SOP) regulation in mitigating excessive CEO compensation and how it is affected by CEO personal traits and the power distribution inside a corporation. Using IV‐GMM method and a sample of 1,931 firms from Australia, Canada, the UK, and the USA, we find that shareholder voices are successful in reducing the pay gap between CEOs and the median employee, regardless of the exact nature of the regulation. In addition, older CEOs are associated with lower pay ratios and there are some evidences suggesting that older or female CEOs enhance SOP effectiveness. Further, power distribution manifested through corporate governance mechanisms matters, as increasing board size and director and audit committee independence reduce pay ratio. A measure of CEO power, CEO pay slice, has a significant and large positive explanatory power for the model and its exclusion can greatly exaggerate the estimated impact of SOP on pay ratio. Another measure of CEO power, CEO duality, appears to enhance the potency of SOP slightly. There is also some evidence indicating that ownership concentration enhances SOP effectiveness. Our findings have implications for companies, investors, and regulators concerning the importance of power balance structure within corporations.
Composing Across Media for Rhetorical and Idiosyncratic Purposes: Text‐Based Writing and Digital Multimodal Composing
Authors: Kang Joohoon
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to explore adolescent second language (L2) writers' composition across media (text‐based writing and digital multimodal composing). The goal was to investigate how and under what conditions these writers used semiotic resources when they engaged in both text‐based writing and digital multimodal composing. Grounded in the concept of adaptive transfer, this study was carried out in an after‐school program at a secondary school in South Korea. The researcher conducted this study and taught the class sessions simultaneously. Three adolescent participants joined the program, wrote two text‐based essays, and created two digital multimodal products. The researcher collected data from the interviews with each participant, class observations, and students' essays and products. Data analysis revealed that participants used and reshaped semiotic resources for both idiosyncratic and rhetorical purposes when composing across media. This paper offers suggestions for further research and outlines the educational implications of composition across media.
Rapid transition from in‐person to videoconferencing psychotherapy in a counselor training clinic: A safety and feasibility study during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Hall Sean B. , Bartley Alise G. , Wenk Julieta , Connor Annemarie , Dugger Suzanne M. , Casazza Krista
Published: May 2022

Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, many counselor training clinics rapidly transitioned in‐person (IP) services to videoconferencing psychotherapy (VCP). Because VCP is a relatively new technology, more research is needed to establish whether this delivery format is a safe and acceptable substitute for IP services in counselor training clinics. The purpose of this study is to explore questions related to how clients perceive VCP versus IP in terms of credibility and expectancy. Results from this investigation demonstrate that clients who participate in VCP, without first meeting their counselor in person, may initially question the credibility and effectiveness of VCP. However, results demonstrated improvement, in both groups, across the duration of therapy. These findings provide both initial support for the safety of VCP in counselor training clinics and justification for further research.
A novel bipolar electrocautery‐enhanced delivery system with a lumen‐apposing metal stent for EUS‐guided drainage: A porcine study
Authors: Jo Seok Jung , Moon Jong Ho , Lee Yun Nah , Park Jae Keun , Lee Tae Hoon , Park Sang‐Heum , Park Se Ik , Jeong Seok , Lee Don Haeng
Published: May 2022

Background

An electrocautery‐enhanced delivery system with a lumen‐apposing metal stent (LAMS) is available for one‐step endoscopic ultrasound‐guided transmural drainage (EUS‐TD). Bipolar electrosurgery has several potential clinical advantages, including reduced collateral thermal damage, enhanced hemostasis, and no requirement for a return electrode plate. In this study, we compared the technical feasibility and safety of a newly developed bipolar electrocautery‐enhanced delivery system with a conventional delivery system for EUS‐TD using a LAMS in a porcine model.

Method

Ten days before the study, 12 mini pigs underwent common bile duct ligation for EUS‐guided gallbladder drainage. Transenteric puncture was performed, followed by placement of a guidewire. In six pigs, a bipolar electrocautery‐enhanced delivery system with LAMS (Hot SPAXUS) was inserted over the guidewire and advanced into the gallbladder, without prior dilation of the tract, by applying a bipolar cut current. In the remaining six pigs, a conventional delivery system with LAMS (Cold SPAXUS) was inserted after tract dilatation using a cystotome. The stent was removed after 4 weeks.

Results

In all pigs, the stent was successfully inserted and deployed in the gallbladder without adverse events. The mean procedure time of EUS‐TD was significantly lower in the Hot SPAXUS group than that of the Cold SPAXUS group (mean ± standard deviation: 188.7 ± 5.2 vs 449.5 ± 97.5 s, P = .0019). Stent migration was not observed, and all stents were removed successfully.

Conclusions

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided transmural drainage using a bipolar electrocautery‐enhanced LAMS is feasible for reducing the procedure time while maintaining the high success rate and safety of conventional LAMS.
Long‐term outcomes of endoscopic double stenting using an anti‐reflux metal stent for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction
Authors: Sasaki Takashi , Takeda Tsuyoshi , Yamada Yuto , Okamoto Takeshi , Mori Chinatsu , Mie Takafumi , Kasuga Akiyoshi , Matsuyama Masato , Ozaka Masato , Sasahira Naoki
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To evaluate long‐term outcomes of endoscopic double stenting using anti‐reflux metal stents (ARMS) for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction.

Methods

Consecutive patients with advanced pancreatic cancer who received endoscopic double stenting with self‐expandable metal stents (SEMS) for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction at our institution between July 2014 and March 2021 were evaluated. Patients were divided into the ARMS group, endoscopic ultrasound‐guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS‐HGS) group, and covered metal stent‐transpapillary (CMS‐transpapillary) group. A Duckbill‐type metal stent was used in all ARMS cases.

Results

Thirty‐eight patients were enrolled: ARMS group (n = 16), EUS‐HGS group (n = 13), and CMS‐transpapillary group (n = 9). Overall survival among three groups were not significantly different. Recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) rates of the ARMS, EUS‐HGS, and CMS‐transpapillary groups were 12.5%, 61.5%, and 88.9% (P < .01) and median time to recurrent biliary obstructions (TRBOs) were not reached, 125 days, and 7 days (P < .01). Median TRBOs of ARMS‐choledochoduodenostomy and ARMS‐transpapillary were not statistically different. Major causes of RBO were stent occlusion and symptomatic stent migration in the ARMS group, hyperplasia in the EUS‐HGS group, and non‐occlusion cholangitis in the CMS‐transpapillary group.

Conclusions

Endoscopic double stenting with ARMS might be an option for combined malignant biliary and duodenal obstruction.
A new hybrid analytical model for electromagnetic analysis of wound rotor induction motors
Authors: Rezaee‐Alam Farhad , Hosseini Mojtaba , Rezaeealam Behrooz
Published: May 2022

Accurate modeling of slotting and magnetic saturation effects has been two main challenges for analytical modeling of electric machines. In this article, first, different techniques such as sub‐domain (S‐D) model, winding function theory, magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) model, and conformal mapping (CM) method are introduced to analytical model and analysis of electric machines. These techniques are also compared in terms of their accuracy, and computational complexity. Second, with respect to the comparison results, a new hybrid analytical model is presented for electromagnetic modeling of wound rotor induction motors, which consider the modeling accuracy of slotting and magnetic saturation effect, simultaneously. In this way, the air‐gap region is modeled by using S‐D model, and the iron parts are considered by using MEC model assisted by CMs. In final, the analytical results are verified by comparing with corresponding results obtained through finite element method and experiment set‐up.
Highly sensitive high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography method for the simultaneous determination of molnupiravir, favipiravir, and ritonavir in pure forms and pharmaceutical formulations
Authors: Saraya Roshdy E. , Deeb Sami El , Salman Baher I. , Ibrahim Adel Ehab
Published: May 2022

Favipiravir, molnupiravir, and ritonavir have been recently approved as the first oral antivirals for treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2 viral infections. Their combination was reported in several clinical studies, alternatively, to enhance the viral eradication and improve patient's recovery times and rates. Being all orally administered, therefore, the development of new sensitive and validated methodologies for their simultaneous determination is a necessitate. In the proposed research, a sensitive, selective, and simple high‐performance thin layer chromatography method was developed and validated for determination of favipiravir, molnupiravir, and ritonavir. Silica gel 60F254 thin layer chromatography plates were used as stationary phase for this separation using mobile phase composed of methylene chloride:ethyl acetate:methanol:25% ammonia (6:3:4:1, v/v/v/v). Densitometric detection was performed at wavelength 289 nm. Peaks of favipiravir, molnupiravir, and ritonavir were resolved at retention factors 0.22, 0.42, and 0.63, respectively. The proposed method was found linear within the specified ranges of 3.75–100.00 μg/mL for molnupiravir and favipiravir, and 2.75–100.00 μg/mL for ritonavir. Limits of detection were found to be 1.12, 1.21, and 0.89 μg/mL for favipiravir, molnupiravir, and ritonavir, respectively. This is the first method to be reported for the simultaneous determination of the cited three antiviral drugs. The method was assessed on novel greenness metrics.
Natural Dual‐Crosslinked Self‐Healing Hydrogels for In Situ Wound Healing
Authors: Wang Yushi , Xiong Xueru , Lin Caihong , Huang Wen , Chen Yunhua , Wang Lin , Liu Sa , Jia Yong‐Guang
Published: May 2022

Poly(l‐glutamic acid) (PLGA), a polypeptide prepared by bacteria fermentation, has broad applications in tissue engineering. A natural host–guest pair of β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and bile acid molecules are attached covalently onto the PLGA backbones separately, and host–guest crosslinked self‐healing hydrogels can be easily formed by mixing these polymer solutions. Inspired by the adhesives of mussel foot proteins, a dopamine methyl acrylamide derivative is introduced into this system to prepare a PLGA‐based dual‐network hydrogel in situ through the combination of host–guest crosslinking and the photo‐crosslinking of the dopamine derivative. The mechanical properties of the hydrogels can be tuned by altering the molar ratios of β‐CD and bile acid as well as the content of dopamine methyl acrylamide derivative. The dynamic inclusion complexation of β‐CD and bile acid allows the hydrogel to self‐heal rapidly under ambient atmosphere and their mechanical properties can recover to original levels within 1 min as evidenced in rheological results. The dual‐network hydrogels exhibit stronger adhesion behavior to pig skin than the host–guest crosslinked hydrogels in vitro. The adhesion of the dual‐network hydrogels to rat whole cortical incision has promoted faster wound healing and tissue regeneration than that in sutured treatments in vivo.
Recent Advances in 2D Material/Conducting Polymer Composites for Thermoelectric Energy Conversion
Authors: Wang Yeye , Bai Zuzhi , Guo Yong , Liu Congcong , Jiang Qinglin , Jiang Fengxing , Yang Jiaji , Ding Wenjun , Liu Peipei , Xu Jingkun
Published: May 2022

Two‐dimensional material (2DM)/conducting polymer (CP) composites with excellent electrical transport behavior, functional multidimensional structure, and good flexibility have attracted widespread attention as potential composite thermoelectric (TE) materials in the field of energy conversion. Appropriate preparation strategies determine the interface microstructure of 2DM/CP composites, which would influence the optimization degree of TE performance and practical applications. This review describes the recent progress in preparing advanced 2DM/CP composites by different design strategies for improving TE performance. In addition, some typical 2DM/CP composites applied to TE generators are also presented. Finally, other challenges and opportunities toward high‐performance 2DM/CP composites are discussed, including precise structural regulation, an in‐depth understanding of the interfacial transport mechanism, and the development of practical 2DM/CP‐based flexible TE devices.
Fabrication of Microcellular Injection‐Molded Polypropylene with Super High Expansion Ratio by Precision Mold Opening Technology
Authors: Gao Zhiyong , Zhao Haibin , Zhai Dongjie , Li Qing , Guo Yu , Wang Guilong , Zhao Guoqun
Published: May 2022

In this study, microcellular injection molding with the combination of the precision mold opening and rapid heat cycle mold technology is conducted to fabricate the 30% glass fiber reinforced polypropylene (PP/GF30) foam. By optimizing supercritical fluid, mold temperature, mold opening distance, and other process conditions, the injection‐molded PP/GF30 foam with a super high expansion ratio, density of 0.32 g cm−3, and porosity of 75%, is fabricated. The crystallization and rheological properties of the PP/GF30 samples are tested to determine the suitable injection molding parameters. The results show that glass fiber promotes the crystallization of polypropylene (PP) while improving its storage modulus and complex viscosity. The fiber distribution and orientation as well as the cellular structure are investigated by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray computed tomography. Due to the high mold temperature, the shear effect and melt cavity filling are greatly changed. The oriented fibers in the core layer are randomly moved by the cell growth and presented as a scaffold to support the cell wall structure. The glass fiber increases the PP melt stiffness and avoids cell collapse so that the cellular structure with small cell size and even cell distribution is fabricated. The compression properties, surface roughness, and thermal conductivity are examined.
A Facile Way of Enhancing Thermally and Electrically Conductive Properties of Epoxy/Ni/GNP Composites via Construction of a Hybrid Filler Network with a Magnetic Field Orientation Technique
Authors: Yang Bin , Jia Ning , Wang Xiaohong , Pan Yang , Luo Mengning , Chen Xinya , Xia Ru , Zheng Zhengzhi , Qian Jiasheng , Ke Yuchao , Su Lifen , Fang Yirong
Published: May 2022

In this work, epoxy (EP) resin composites with “point‐surface” heterostructures constructed by hybrid fillers of Ni particles and graphene nanosheets (GNPs) are prepared via a blending method under magnetic field. Effects of filler content and magnetic orientation on dielectric, thermally and electrically conductive, and thermomechanical properties of the resultant composites are investigated. The findings disclose that the synergistic effect of hybrid fillers and the magnetic orientation result in the formation of a complex heterogeneous network structure, significantly improving both thermal and electrical conductivities. From the temperature distribution analysis, it is the construction of the heterogeneous network that improves the thermally conductive and thermomechanical properties. Sample Y4 (containing 28 wt% Ni and 2 wt% GNP) displays an average heating rate (AHR) of 152.4 °C min−1and has an out‐of‐plane thermal conductivity of 0.930 W m−1 K−1(267.6% higher than that of neat EP). The infrared thermal imaging (ITI) together with SEM observations further confirms that the Ni chains in situ formed under a magnetic field are responsible for the improved composite's thermal conductivity and thermal management capability, which make it potentially applicable for 3D packaging materials in power‐intensive electronic components.
Tough and Strong Waterborne Polyurethane Network Combined with Sub‐Nanoscaled Calcium Phosphate Oligomers for Protective Coating
Authors: Xi Panyi , Luo Jing , Chen Weichao , Jiang Yijun
Published: May 2022

The optimal design of high wear‐resistance and durability of coatings using organic–inorganic interpenetrating networks has been a long‐term goal of researchers. Although some progress has been made in the modification of waterborne polyurethanes (WPU), there are still significant challenges in fabricating more durable polyurethane‐based protective coatings from the perspective of structural design at a molecular level. Here, a sub‐nanoscaled (<1 nm) inorganic calcium phosphate oligomer (CPO) is used to carry out organic–inorganic hybrid cross‐linking in a WPU network and precisely regulate the structure of the macromolecular network at the molecular level. The herein‐produced CPO‐WPU hybrid coating shows excellent wear resistance and water resistance. Taber abrasion tests demonstrate that the CPO‐WPU coating can be capable of 15 500 turns at a load of 750 g, 2.2 times that of pure WPU coating, and the water‐resistance of CPO‐WPU coating is significantly improved compared with WPU coating due to its well‐integrated organic–inorganic network. Overall, the CPO‐WPU coating material significantly improves the mechanical strength, wear‐resistance, and water‐resistance, compared with the original WPU coating and other modified polyurethane. This hybrid coating can provide a potential application in paper‐making, textiles, and furniture due to its unique organic–inorganic network, low cost, and green process.
Convective‐scale numerical weather prediction and warnings over Lake Victoria: Part II—Can model output support severe weather warning decision‐making?
Authors: Mittermaier Marion , Landman Stephanie , Csima Gabriella , Goodman Steven
Published: May 2022

The greater Lake Victoria region was the focus of the ‘HIGHWeather impact lAke sYstem’ project, with the aim of developing an early warning capability for hazardous weather. Strong thunderstorm outflows can cause boats to capsize and lead to drowning. Lightning is also a hazard to fishermen, and over land flash flooding from heavy rainfall is a significant hazard. Between March and October 2019, 16 regional warnings were issued, and 14 days had reported impacts. Only one of the issued warnings aligned with any reported impacts. The issued warnings were verified using three different methodologies and found to have a very low frequency bias, confirming that too few warnings are being issued, especially for precipitation. The skill of the warnings based on the probability of detection and symmetric extremal dependency index was also found to be low. Potential warnings days are derived from individual and multivariate combinations of numerical weather prediction forecasts of mean wind speed, precipitation and a new lightning diagnostic from the 4.4 km Tropical Africa configuration of the Met Office Unified Model. The methodology identified 5–7 times the issued number of warnings, including 50% of days with reported impacts and 25% of days with issued warnings. Overall, 70%–80% of the identified potential warning days appear to be justified, suggesting that for this period not enough warnings were issued. It is shown that a daily aggregate of the lightning diagnostic is a skilful addition to any guidance supporting a decision‐making process.
Corrigendum to “Existence of solutions for a quasilinear elliptic system with local nonlinearity on ℝN$$ {\mathbb{R}}^N $$” [Math. Meth. Appl. Sci., 2021, 44(17): 13186–13212]
Authors: Zhang Xingyong , Liu Cuiling
Published: May 2022

We would like to correct the range of
in the condition (F2) of Theorem 1.1 and an error (i.e., the proof of inequality (3.16)) in the proof of Lemma 3.4 in [Math. Meth. Appl. Sci., 2021, 44(17): 13186–13212].
Ultralow‐parameter denoising: Trainable bilateral filter layers in computed tomography
Authors: Wagner Fabian , Thies Mareike , Gu Mingxuan , Huang Yixing , Pechmann Sabrina , Patwari Mayank , Ploner Stefan , Aust Oliver , Uderhardt Stefan , Schett Georg , Christiansen Silke , Maier Andreas
Published: May 2022

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is widely used as an imaging tool to visualize three‐dimensional structures with expressive bone‐soft tissue contrast. However, CT resolution can be severely degraded through low‐dose acquisitions, highlighting the importance of effective denoising algorithms.

Purpose

Most data‐driven denoising techniques are based on deep neural networks, and therefore, contain hundreds of thousands of trainable parameters, making them incomprehensible and prone to prediction failures. Developing understandable and robust denoising algorithms achieving state‐of‐the‐art performance helps to minimize radiation dose while maintaining data integrity.

Methods

This work presents an open‐source CT denoising framework based on the idea of bilateral filtering. We propose a bilateral filter that can be incorporated into any deep learning pipeline and optimized in a purely data‐driven way by calculating the gradient flow toward its hyperparameters and its input. Denoising in pure image‐to‐image pipelines and across different domains such as raw detector data and reconstructed volume, using a differentiable backprojection layer, is demonstrated. In contrast to other models, our bilateral filter layer consists of only four trainable parameters and constrains the applied operation to follow the traditional bilateral filter algorithm by design.

Results

Although only using three spatial parameters and one intensity range parameter per filter layer, the proposed denoising pipelines can compete with deep state‐of‐the‐art denoising architectures with several hundred thousand parameters. Competitive denoising performance is achieved on x‐ray microscope bone data and the 2016 Low Dose CT Grand Challenge data set. We report structural similarity index measures of 0.7094 and 0.9674 and peak signal‐to‐noise ratio values of 33.17 and 43.07 on the respective data sets.

Conclusions

Due to the extremely low number of trainable parameters with well‐defined effect, prediction reliance and data integrity is guaranteed at any time in the proposed pipelines, in contrast to most other deep learning‐based denoising architectures.
Association of diaphragm thickness and echogenicity with age, sex, and body mass index in healthy subjects
Authors: van Doorn Jeroen L. M. , Wijntjes Juerd , Saris Christiaan G. J. , Ottenheijm Coen A. C. , van Alfen Nens , Doorduin Jonne
Published: May 2022

Introduction/Aims

Diaphragm ultrasound is increasingly used in the diagnosis of diaphragm dysfunction and to guide respiratory management in patients with neuromuscular disorders and those who are critically ill. However, the association between diaphragm ultrasound variables and demographic factors like age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) are understudied. Such relationships are important for correct interpretation of normative values and comparison with selected patients groups. The aim of this study was to determine the associations between diaphragm ultrasound variables and subject characteristics.

Methods

B‐mode ultrasound was used to image the diaphragm at the zone of apposition in 83 healthy subjects. Diaphragm thickness at resting end‐expiration (Tend‐exp), diaphragm thickness at maximal end‐inspiration (Tmax‐insp), diaphragm thickening ratio (Tmax‐insp/Tend‐exp), and diaphragm echogenicity were measured. Multivariate linear regression was used to explore the associations between diaphragm ultrasound variables and subject characteristics.

Results

Tend‐exp, Tmax‐insp, and thickening ratio do not change with age whereas diaphragm echogenicity increases with age. The thickening ratio had a weak negative association with BMI, while Tend‐exp was positively associated with BMI. Men had a larger Tend‐exp and Tmax‐insp than women (Tend‐exp 1.6 ± 0.5 and 1.4 ± 0.3 mm; p = .011, Tmax‐insp 3.8 ± 1.0 and 3.2 ± 0.9 mm; p = .004), but similar thickening ratios.

Discussion

Diaphragm thickness, thickening, and echogenicity measured with ultrasound are associated with factors such as age, BMI, and sex. Therefore, subject characteristics should be considered when interpreting diaphragm ultrasound measurements. In the absence of normative values, matched control groups are a prerequisite for research and in clinical practice.
Structural topology optimization of elastoplastic continuum under shakedown theory
Authors: Li Kai , Cheng Gengdong
Published: May 2022

This article presents an elastoplastic continuum topology optimization method for shakedown under the SIMP‐based framework for the first time, aiming to maximize shakedown load‐carrying capacity under variable repeated loading. In contrast to most elastoplastic topology optimizations which have path‐dependent properties, the shakedown topology optimization only needs loading vertices of the loading domain rather than any complete loading history. Based on Melan's lower bound theorem, the gradient‐based topology optimization framework synthesizing the shakedown analysis and sensitivity analysis is developed to maximize the shakedown multiplier. Path‐independent sensitivity related to the specified density interpolation model is derived analytically for the first time in conjunction with the adjoint method. Besides, a primal‐dual algorithm of shakedown analysis is implemented for computing the shakedown load limit of structures and corresponding adjoint variables needed in the sensitivity analysis. In addition to the density interpolation scheme of material Young's module, the yield strength is also interpolated to overcome numerical difficulties. Several numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, which indicates the shakedown load‐carrying performance enhancements.
Double dynamic bonds tough hydrogel with high self‐healing properties based on acylhydrazone bonds and borate bonds
Authors: Chen Lijun , Wang Sui , Guo Zhiyong , Hu Yufang
Published: May 2022

Hydrogels with excellent self‐healing properties have specific applications in smart polymer materials, but they often do not have excellent mechanical properties, or the preparation process of hydrogels is too complicated. Here, we prepared a multi‐functional intelligent hydrogel using a simple water bath one‐pot method through the synergistic effect of dual dynamic cross‐linked agents, including acylhydrazone bonds (the first cross‐linked agent) and borate ester bonds (the second cross‐linked agent), at the same time hydrogen bonds provided physical interaction. The hydrogel exhibited excellent self‐healing ability (up to 91%) and extraordinary mechanical strength (tensile stress 173.1405 kPa and hysteresis energy of 1.8659 MJ m−3). The research used chemical cross‐linked (acylhydrazone bonds and borate ester bonds) and physical cross‐linked (hydrogen bonds). The prepared hydrogel had the dual advantages of excellent self‐healing performance and high mechanical strength. The hydrogel can be used in smart materials, such as working pressure tissues and sensing materials that require a certain degree of mechanical strength and self‐healing properties, and also provides a design strategy for preparing hydrogels with high mechanical strength and excellent self‐healing properties.
Analysis of nonlinear mechanical behavior of resin materials at low and medium strain rates
Authors: Jianlin Zhong , Rui Ren , Ziruo Tang , Jie Ren , Changfang Zhao
Published: May 2022

Commonly used thermoset/thermoplastic continuous fiber‐reinforced composites have an isotropic failure strain of no more than 0.1 and deformation under gas pressure impact loading in the low to medium strain rate range (). In order to accurately grasp the load carrying capacity of the composite material under this condition and predict the damage failure behavior, experimental analysis and finite element study of the nonlinear mechanical behavior of the resin before damage under low and medium strain rate loading are carried out in this article. Based on the linear function of compressive stress and logarithmic strain rate of the resin material, the elastic–plastic principal structure related to the strain rate of the resin material is established. The mechanical behavior of the resin material at low and medium strain rates was obtained by writing the VUMAT subroutine for the numerical finite element simulation of the test conditions, and the good agreement with the experimental results proved the accuracy of the prediction of the mechanical behavior of the resin material at low and medium strain rates by this intrinsic model.
Flammable hazards of BESS failures
Authors: Morones Aníbal
Published: May 2022

Under certain conditions, Lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) batteries can produce flammable and/or explosive atmospheres and pose related risks. Battery Energy Storage Systems are composed of large quantities of Li‐ion batteries. This article uses basic concepts of combustion to describe the flammable hazards associated with BESS failures.
Updated GINA guidance on the management of chronic asthma
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: May 2022

The GINA Global Strategy for Asthma Management and Prevention was updated in 2021 in light of new evidence. This article summarises the treatment recommendations and how they might predict the awaited new UK‐wide guidance from NICE, BTS and SIGN.
Introduction of an artificial neural network–based method for concentration‐time predictions
Authors: Bräm Dominic Stefan , Parrott Neil , Hutchinson Lucy , Steiert Bernhard
Published: May 2022

Pharmacometrics and the application of population pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling play a crucial role in clinical pharmacology. These methods, which describe data with well‐defined equations and estimate physiologically interpretable parameters, have not changed substantially during the past decades. Although the methods have proven their usefulness, they are often resource intensive and require a high level of expertise. We investigated whether a method based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) may provide an alternative approach for the prediction of concentration‐time curve to supplement the gold standard methods. In this work, we used simulated data to overcome the requirement for a large clinical training data set, implemented a pharmacologically reasonable network architecture to improve extrapolation to different dosing schemes, and used transfer learning to quickly adapt the predictions to new patient groups. We demonstrate that ANNs are able to learn the shape of concentration‐time curves and make individual predictions based on a short sequence of PK measurements. Furthermore, an ANN trained on simulated data was applied to real clinical data and was demonstrated to extrapolate to different dosing schemes. We also adapted the ANN trained on simulated healthy subjects to simulated hepatic impaired patients through transfer learning. In summary, we demonstrate how ANNs could be leveraged in a PK workflow to efficiently make individual concentration‐time predictions, and we discuss the current limitations and advantages of such an ANN‐based method.
Dynamical effects of inflation in ensemble‐based data assimilation under the presence of model error
Authors: Scheffler Guillermo , Carrassi Alberto , Ruiz Juan , Pulido Manuel
Published: May 2022

Covariance inflation is one of the necessary tools enabling the success of ensemble Kalman filters (EnKFs) in high‐dimensional spaces and in the presence of model error. Inflation maintains the ensemble variance to a sufficiently large value, counteracting the variance damping at analysis times and its underestimation arising from model and sampling errors. In this work, we investigate the effect of inflation on the dynamics of the EnKF ensemble. When the focus is on the recursive full cycle forecast–analysis–forecast, an apparently counterintuitive effect of multiplicative inflation appears in the span of the ensemble in the EnKF. In particular, we demostrate that multiplicative inflation changes the alignment of ensemble anomalies on to weakly stable backward Lyapunov vectors. Whereas the ensemble is expected to collapse on to the subspace corresponding to the unstable portions of the Lyapunov spectrum, the use of multiplicative inflation contributes to the retention of anomalies beyond that subspace. Given that the presence of model error implies that the analysis error is no longer fully confined in the local unstable subspace, this feature of multiplicative inflation is of paramount importance for optimal filtering. We propose hybrid schemes, whereby additive perturbations complement multiplicative inflation by suitably increasing the dimension of the subspace spanned by the ensemble. The use of hybrid schemes improves analysis root‐mean‐squared error in the Lorenz 96 model compared with the use of multiplicative inflation alone, emphasizing the role of model dynamics when designing additive inflation schemes.
Integral correction of initial and model errors in system of multigrid NLS‐4DVar data assimilation for numerical weather prediction (SNAP)
Authors: Zhang Hongqin , Tian Xiangjun
Published: May 2022

Model error has a marked influence on forecast error, and integral correction of the initial and model errors in a novel four‐dimensional variational data assimilation (4DVar) method (i4DVar) has recently been developed. Unlike traditional 4DVar, in which the analysis increment focuses only on the initial time point, i4DVar introduces an averaged integral correction term to correct the error evolution at multiple times with the same time interval in the assimilation window; that is, the assimilation window is divided into several sub‐windows. In this study, we incorporated i4DVar into the System of Multigrid Nonlinear Least‐squares‐4DVar Data Assimilation for Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) (SNAP), hereafter referred to as SN‐i4DVar, and explored its impacts on NWP. The effectiveness and performance of SN‐i4DVar were evaluated using two extreme rainstorm cases assimilating conventional and satellite observations, respectively. The results indicated that integral correction of the initial and model errors reduced analysis error and forecast error growth rates. SN‐i4DVar performed better in precipitation forecasting than the original SNAP and exhibited generally better forecasting capability in terms of the horizontal wind speed (u and v), temperature, and humidity variables, indicating that SN‐i4DVar simultaneously countered initial model errors to improve NWP capability. Meanwhile, the 4DEnVar method, which considers the optimal analysis in the ensemble space, benefits from the improved ensemble space generated according to the formulas of i4DVar, and the observation information can be more effectively absorbed and a more accurate analysis can be obtained by SN‐i4DVar.
Performance of the Shiryaev‐Roberts‐type scheme in comparison to the CUSUM and EWMA schemes in monitoring weibull scale parameter based on Type I censored data
Authors: Yu Dan , Mukherjee Amitava , Li Jin , Jin Li , Wen Kai , Zhang Jiujun
Published: May 2022

This paper introduces a process monitoring scheme based on the Shiryaev‐Roberts (SR) procedure for Type I right‐censored Weibull lifetime data for detecting shifts in the scale parameter for a fixed value of the shape parameter. The performance of the new charting scheme is evaluated under different censoring rates and sample sizes via Monte Carlo simulation. Comparison with two existing schemes, namely, the exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) and cumulative sum (CUSUM) schemes, is performed in terms of average run length (ARL). Both zero‐state and steady‐state shifts are considered in this study for impartial comparisons. The numerical results based on simulation are highly encouraging in favour of the SR procedure. Our findings show that the new scheme outperforms the other two schemes in some cases. An illustrative example is given to illustrate the application of the proposed scheme.
Can sustainability be achieved through sustainable oriented innovation practices? Empirical evidence of micro, small and medium scale manufacturing enterprises
Authors: Khurana Sonal , Luthra Sunil , Haleem Abid , Kumar Anil , Mannan Bisma
Published: May 2022

In today's scenario, where companies are driven by fast changes, their survival depends on their ability to pursue sustainable development through innovation. This issue has led to the discussion about how companies should manage innovation to meet the demands of sustainability. Recently, researchers have identified that bringing changes into various managerial aspects has the potential to support both innovation and sustainability. The present study contributes to this field by analysing the causal relationships amongst the sustainability capabilities at the organisational level through the structural equation modelling method. The responses of 301 owners and managers of micro, small and medium scale enterprises in an emerging economy context are examined. A more holistic approach, as promoted by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, is used in order to achieve the multi‐dimensional mix of environmental, social and economic performance indicators. The findings of this study reveal that government initiatives influence firm size and technological resources significantly. Financial resources have a significant influence on collaboration capability. Moreover, capacity building has emerged to be a significant determinant affecting sustainable oriented innovation. This study also makes a contribution to the contingent resource‐based theory by providing an understanding of the significance of various contingencies and integration of resources for application of sustainable practices. The authors hope that the present research is able to help government and managers so that they can provide every support to indigenous manufacturing, innovation and implementation of climate resilient technologies.
Bayesian inference for asymptomatic COVID‐19 infection rates
Authors: Cahoy Dexter , Sedransk Joseph
Published: May 2022

To strengthen inferences meta‐analyses are commonly used to summarize information from a set of independent studies. In some cases, though, the data may not satisfy the assumptions underlying the meta‐analysis. Using three Bayesian methods that have a more general structure than the common meta‐analytic ones, we can show the extent and nature of the pooling that is justified statistically. In this article, we reanalyze data from several reviews whose objective is to make inference about the COVID‐19 asymptomatic infection rate. When it is unlikely that all of the true effect sizes come from a single source researchers should be cautious about pooling the data from all of the studies. Our findings and methodology are applicable to other COVID‐19 outcome variables, and more generally.
Does the Histopathological Subtype of Primary Basal Cell Carcinoma Predict the Subtype of Secondary Tumours? What Role do Genetic Mutations Play?
Authors: Turner Liam D. , Zarkovic Andrea , Lee Siew Hua Jessica , Chan Weng , Ogra Siddharth , Brettell Daniel , Ohana Oded , Gounder Pavindran , Hayes Mark , Madge Simon
Published: May 2022

Background

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common malignancies in the world. The frequency of histopathological subtypes and the distribution on the body of BCC has been well documented. Less has been written on the nature of secondary tumours. The genetics of BCC is starting to be understood, particularly with the advent of newer medical treatments (hedgehog inhibitors).

Objectives

To determine if primary basal cell carcinoma histopathological subtype predicts secondary tumour subtype, as well as their anatomical distribution.

Methods

A retrospective case series of patients over the age of 18 was performed from 2009 to 2014, with at least two separate diagnoses of BCC.

Results

In 394 identified patients, a total of 1355 BCCs arose in the cohort over the 6-year study period. The number of secondary BCCs per patient ranged from 2 to 19 tumours. Nodular BCC was the most likely to reoccur in secondary tumours (53.3%), followed by mixed subtypes (45.7%).

Conclusions

Within our study, we did find a predisposition for secondary BCCs to be of the same histopathological subtype as the primary, particularly with respect to nodular and mixed tumours. Furthermore, we found that secondary tumours were also more likely to occur on the same anatomical site as the primary tumour. We are only just beginning to under the genetic mutations involved in subtype formation.
A Class of Shark‐Derived Single‐Domain Antibodies can Broadly Neutralize SARS‐Related Coronaviruses and the Structural Basis of Neutralization and Omicron Escape
Authors: Feng Bo , Chen Zhilong , Sun Jing , Xu Tingting , Wang Qian , Yi Haisu , Niu Xuefeng , Zhu Jiabin , Fan Mengzhu , Hou Ruitian , Shao Ying , Huang Sihui , Li Cuiyun , Hu Peiyu , Zheng Pingqian , He Ping , Luo Jia , Yan Qihong , Xiong Xiaoli , Liu Jinsong , Zhao Jincun , Chen Ling
Published: May 2022

The identification of a novel class of shark‐derived single domain antibodies, named vnarbodies that show picomolar affinities binding to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of Wuhan and Alpha, Beta, Kappa, Delta, Delta‐plus, and Lambda variants, is reported. Vnarbody 20G6 and 17F6 have broad neutralizing activities against all these SARS‐CoV‐2 viruses as well as other sarbecoviruses, including Pangolin coronavirus and Bat coronavirus. Intranasal administration of 20G6 effectively protects mice from the challenges of SARS‐CoV‐2 Wuhan and Beta variants. 20G6 and 17F6 contain a unique “WXGY” motif in the complementary determining region 3 that binds to a hidden epitope on RBD, which is highly conserved in sarbecoviruses through a novel β‐sheet interaction. It is found that the S375F mutation on Omicron RBD disrupts the structure of β‐strand, thus impair the binding with 20G6. The study demonstrates that shark‐derived vnarbodies offer a prophylactic and therapeutic option against most SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and provide insights into antibody evasion by the Omicron variant.