bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Cu Nanoparticles on the Properties of PP-g-PHMG/PE Monofilament and Its Antifouling Application
Authors: Wang Yue , Han Feng , Yu Wenwen , Shi Jiangao , Shu Aiyan , Zhang Min
Published: July 2021

The modified polyethylene monofilament was prepared by melt blending and spinning using polyethylene (PE), polypropylene-grafted poly(hexamethylene guanidine) (PP-g-PHMG), and Cu nanoparticles (CuNPs). The effect of CuNP content on the structure, mechanical properties, and antimicrobial properties of the monofilaments was studied. In addition, the antifouling property of fishing nets using the modified polyethylene monofilaments was evaluated. The results showed that CuNPs were dispersed homogeneously in the monofilament matrix as microaggregates. The initial increase in the tensile strength of monofilament was attributed to the mechanical restraint, whereas a decrease in the tensile properties at 1.0 wt% CuNP content was due to the predominant effect of a decrease in the total crystallinity. A bacteriostatic test showed that the monofilament had an obvious inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, coupon test results showed that PP-g-PHMG/PE/CuNP nanocomposite netting had lower weight gain than PP-g-PHMG/PE netting (23.6% reduction) because of the combined antibacterial effect of both PHMG and CuNP. Therefore, PP-g-PHMG/PE/CuNP monofilament has the potential to produce green and efficient antifouling fishing nets.
Study on the Freeze‐Thaw Process of the Lining Structures of a Tunnel on Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau with the Consideration of Lining Frost Damage
Authors: Yu Hong , Zhang Kun , Zhu Xiaoming , Tian Zhizhuo , Zhang Qinglong
Published: July 2021

In seasonally frozen ground, there are many frost problems in highway road tunnel after its excavation due to the heat exchange between the cold air and lining structure inside the tunnel. To mitigate these frost‐related damages, thermal insulation layer is widely used at entrance and exit sections of the tunnel. In this study, a coupled mathematical model of heat, moisture, and stress was built for tunnels in seasonally permafrost regions. Then, based on the field‐observed air temperature inside a roadway tunnel at Altun Mountain on the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau (QTP), seasonal freeze‐thaw process of the surrounding rocks (SR) and lining structures were numerically investigated with the consideration of insulation methods: without insulation (WTIL) and laying the insulation layer on the inner surface of the second lining structure (STIL). Combined with the principle of Miner damage accumulation, the stress regimes of the lining structures of tunnel were investigated in WTIL and STIL. The results show that there was a significantly thermal disturbance of the SR after the tunnel excavation. In the 5th year of the operation period, the maximum seasonal freeze depth (MSFD) of the SR can reach 1.6 m at the vault of the arch and that at the inverted arch was only 1.0 m due to the pavement inside the tunnel. Then, both the absolute maximum value of the maximum principal stress (MAPS) and minimum principal stress (MIPS) in cold season were bigger than those in warm season comparing the value of the stress filed of the lining structure. In the same way, both the MAPS and MIPS of the lining structure in WTIL are bigger than those in STIL in numerical simulation. The positions of the maximum tensile stress of the primary lining structure in STIL and WTIL were inverted arch. For the lining structures, the greater tensile stress was generally harmful. Thus, the inverted arch of the tunnel should be laid on the insulation layer.
Association between NT-proBNP Level and the Severity of COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Wang Lan , Chen Fei , Bai Lin , Bai Lang , Huang Zhixin , Peng Yong
Published: July 2021

In this study, we investigated the association between the plasma NT-proBNP level at admission and the severity of COVID-19 pneumonia. For this retrospective, single-centre cohort study, we enrolled consecutive patients from February 9 to March 4, 2020, in a COVID-19 ward of Hubei General Hospital (East Branch) in Wuhan, which is a government-assigned centre for COVID-19 treatment. Diagnosis was confirmed by microbiological and radiographic findings following the interim guidance of the World Health Organization (WHO). A total of 91 (92.9%) patients were finally included in this study. The median age of the patients was 61 years (IQR, 47–69), and 39 (43.0%) of them were male. Two cases of death were reported (2.3%). Twenty-three patients (25.3%) had NT-proBNP levels above 300 pg/ml. Higher NT-proBNP levels were associated with worse PSI and CT scores. The natural logarithm of the NT-proBNP level was positively correlated with the PSI and CT scores (PSI score: rS = 0.396,

P
=
0.001

; CT score: rS = 0.440,

P
<
0.001

). Patients with NT-proBNP ≥300 pg/ml showed a potential risk for higher mortality than patients with NT-proBNP <300 pg/ml (mortality rate, 8.7% vs. 0%;

P
=
0.062

). The plasma NT-proBNP level of COVID-19 patients was significantly related to the severity of pneumonia.
Clinical Features and Severity of Leptospirosis Cases Reported in the Hawke’s Bay Region of New Zealand
Authors: Sellors Paul , Watson Rebecca F. , Bate Rachel , Bentham Gemma L. , Haigh Kathryn
Published: July 2021

Aims. To record demographics, symptoms, signs, and laboratory features of confirmed leptospirosis cases in the Hawke’s Bay area of New Zealand to aid clinicians in diagnosis and recognition of severity. Methods. Review of suspected leptospirosis cases referred to the reference laboratory from hospitals in the Hawke’s Bay region between March 2003 and March 2012. Inclusion criteria were IgM positivity and diagnosis confirmed with either polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or microscopic agglutination test (MAT). A retrospective systematic review of case notes was completed for demographic and laboratory data. Results. Forty-three cases were included. Most common presenting symptoms were pyrexia (93%), myalgia, and headache (both 86%). 93% of patients worked in the farming or meat industries. The most common biochemical abnormalities were elevated CRP (100%) and abnormal urinalysis (93%). There was no difference in disease severity between icteric and anicteric patients. Compared to other studies, patients in New Zealand have less severe disease. Conclusion. Contrary to popular understanding, this study has not found icteric leptospirosis to be related to more severe disease. Anicteric leptospirosis should be a differential diagnosis in patients presenting with pyrexia, myalgia, and headache who have elevated CRP and abnormal urinalysis.
On Computation of Recently Defined Degree‐Based Topological Indices of Some Families of Convex Polytopes via M‐Polynomial
Authors: Afzal Deeba , Afzal Farkhanda , Farahani Mohammad Reza , Ali Samia
Published: July 2021

Topological indices are of incredible significance in the field of graph theory. Convex polytopes play a significant role both in various branches of mathematics and also in applied areas, most notably in linear programming. We have calculated some topological indices such as atom‐bond connectivity index, geometric arithmetic index, K‐Banhatti indices, and K‐hyper‐Banhatti indices and modified K‐Banhatti indices from some families of convex polytopes through M‐polynomials. The M‐polynomials of the graphs provide us with a great help to calculate the topological indices of different structures.
Development of Coconut Milk-Based Spicy Ice Cream as a Nondairy Alternative with Desired Physicochemical and Sensory Attributes
Authors: Perera K. D. S. S. , Perera O. D. A. N.
Published: July 2021

Spices have been a major influence on Sri Lankan cuisine since times immemorial. Spices are identified as one of the most distinctive ingredients for their indigenous flavor, aroma, and medicinal properties. In this study, coconut milk-based spicy ice cream was developed in compliance with the Sri Lankan standards to introduce a new perception of flavor using spices to the ice cream industry. Although coconut ice cream is commercially available in the local market, spicy flavored coconut ice cream is not yet available. Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), ginger (Zingiber officinale), and white pepper (Piper nigrum) are the spices used in the preparation of the ice cream as they are freely available and used as complementary spices in Sri Lanka. Physicochemical characteristics and sensory attributes of coconut milk-based spicy ice cream were compared with the existing normal coconut ice cream. In preparation of the ice cream, the same ice cream manufacturing process was followed with some modifications. Three different formulas (0.010%, 0.018%, and 0.025%) were developed by changing the percentage of spices added. The 0.018% spice-added sample was selected as the most acceptable ice cream with desired sensory attributes. pH (

6.33
±
0.01

), titratable acidity (

0.33
±
0.05
%

), moisture (

61.86
±
0.33
%

), ash (

0.41
±
0.25
%

), total solids (

38.02
±
0.14
%

), overrun (

66.76
±
1.44
%

), protein (

4.18
±
0.16
%

), and fat content (

11.66
±
0.60
%

) were evaluated as physicochemical properties. Total phenolic content of the ice cream was expressed as

0.093
±
0.002

 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per gram of sample in dry weight (mg/g). DPPH radical scavenging activity was

60.39
±
0.02

 mg ascorbic acid equivalents per gram of sample in dry weight (mg/g), and total antioxidant capacity was expressed as

0.36
±
0.04

 mmol ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE)/g of dry weight. Physicochemical properties of spicy coconut ice cream were more or less similar to that of normal coconut ice cream and in compliance with the Sri Lankan standards. Coconut milk-based spicy ice cream could be introduced to the market as a potential marketable nondairy product with spicy flavor, aroma, and smooth texture.
Global Burden of Anxiety and Depression among Cystic Fibrosis Patient: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Guta Mistire Teshome , Tekalign Tiwabwork , Awoke Nefsu , Fite Robera Olana , Dendir Getahun , Lenjebo Tsegaye Lolaso
Published: July 2021

Aims. This systemic review and meta-analysis were aimed at determining the level of anxiety and depression among cystic fibrosis patients in the world. Methods. We conducted a systematic search of published studies from PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and manually on Google Scholar. This meta-analysis follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The quality of studies was assessed by the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Meta-analysis was carried out using a random-effects method using the STATA™ Version 14 software. Trim and fill analysis was done to correct the presence of significant publication bias. Result. From 419,820 obtained studies, 26 studies from 2 different parts of the world including 9766. The overall global pooled prevalence of anxiety and depression after correction for publication bias by trim and fill analysis was found to be 24.91(95% CI: 20.8-28.9) for anxiety. The subgroup analyses revealed with the lowest prevalence, 23.59%, (95% CI: 8.08, 39.09)) in North America and the highest, 26.77%, (95% CI: 22.5, 31.04) seen in Europe for anxiety and with the highest prevalence, 18.67%, (95% CI: 9.82, 27.5) in North America and the lowest, 13.27%, (95% CI: -10.05, 16.5) seen in Europe for depression. Conclusion. The global prevalence of anxiety and depression among cystic fibrosis patients is common. Therefore, close monitoring of the patient, regularly screening for anxiety and depression, and appropriate prevention techniques is recommended.
System Hazard Analysis of Tower Crane in Different Phases on Construction Site
Authors: Jiang Ling , Zhao Tingsheng , Zhang Wei , Hu Junjie
Published: July 2021

Tower crane accidents frequently occur in the construction industry, often resulting in casualties. The utilization of tower cranes involves multiple phases including installation, usage, climbing, and dismantling. Moreover, the hazards associated with the use of tower cranes can change and be propagated during phase alternation. However, past studies have paid less attention to the differences and hazard propagations between phases. In this research, these hazards are investigated during different construction phases. The propagation of hazards between phases is analyzed to develop appropriate safety management protocols according to each specific phase. Finally, measures are suggested to avoid an adverse impact between the phases. A combined method is also proposed to identify hazard propagation, which serves as a reference and contributes to safety management and accident prevention during different tower crane phases in the construction process.
Investigations of Structural and Residual Trapping Phenomena during CO2 Sequestration in Deccan Volcanic Province of the Saurashtra Region, Gujarat
Authors: Punnam Pradeep Reddy , Krishnamurthy Balaji , Surasani Vikranth Kumar
Published: July 2021

This work aims to study the structural and residual trapping mechanisms on the Deccan traps topography to elucidate the possible implementation of CO2 geological sequestration. This study provides an insight into a selection of stairsteps landscape from Deccan traps in the Saurashtra region, Gujarat, India. Various parameters affect the efficiency of the structural and residual trapping mechanisms. Thus, the parametric study is conducted on the modeled synthetic geological domain by considering the suitable injection points for varying injection rates and petrophysical properties. The outcomes of this study will provide insights into the dependencies of structural and residual trapping on the Deccan traps surface topography and injection rates. It can also establish a protocol for selecting the optimal injection points with the desired injection rate for the safe and efficient implementation of CO2 sequestration. The simulation results of this study have shown the dependencies of structural and residual trapping on the geological domain parameters.
Integrated Technical and Economical Methodology for Assessment of Undeveloped Shale Gas Prospects: Applying in the Lurestan Shale Gas, Iran
Authors: Abdollahi Reza , Motahhari Seyed Mahdia , Esfandyari Hamid
Published: July 2021

Shale gas resources can supply the substantial growing demand for clean energy. In comparison with conventional reservoirs, shale gas reservoirs have lower production potential, and selecting the most favorable areas from the broad region of shale gas prospect is very crucial in commercial development. These areas are screened regarding some key evaluation indicators that affect the ultimate recovery of shale gas reservoirs. Many attempts have been made to screen sweet spots by applying the different evaluation indicators. These studies mainly focus on geological sweet spot identification without considering the economic indicators that may influence the order of geological sweet spots for development. The current study introduces a methodology for selecting the best techno-economic spots in undeveloped shale gas regions by integrating the technical and economic criteria. The techno-economic areas are defined as the geological sweet spots with the highest rate of return under the currently employed technology. The economic objective functions for selecting these areas are net present value, internal rate of return, and payback time. To estimate the unknown features for integrating the technical and economic criteria in undeveloped areas, an analogy study is applied. Due to the large number of unknowns and uncertainties in shale gas evaluation and low confidence of deterministic results, a probabilistic approach is used. As the first attempt in shale gas assessment in Iran, the Lurestan shale gas region is evaluated by applying this approach. The results indicate that no selected geological sweet spots in this region are commercial regarding the current cost rates and the available technology in Iran, and it can be considered as a future affordable source of energy.
Research on the B2C Online Marketing Effect Based on the LS-SVM Algorithm and Multimodel Fusion
Authors: Liao Huiru , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: July 2021

The comprehensive B2C online marketing is analyzed, and the current situation and shortage of comprehensive B2C online marketing strategies are summarized. Then, based on the relevant theories of consumer behavior and online marketing, the model of influencing factors in the purchasing decision-making process of online consumers is preliminarily constructed, the online purchasing behavior of consumers is studied by means of questionnaire survey, and the model is revised and improved through data collection and verification. Finally, based on the model, the online marketing strategy is discussed from the aspects of comprehensive B2C online marketing construction, product positioning, price strategy, channel construction, website design, and so on. It has important guiding significance to comprehensive B2C online marketing practice. Aiming at the B2C online marketing problem of multimodel fusion with multiobservation samples, a new multimodel fusion B2C online marketing algorithm based on LS-SVM is proposed, which is suitable for multiobservation samples. In each B2C online marketing of multimodel fusion, the mode of B2C online marketing to be multimodel fusion is represented by the multiobservation sample set. Firstly, the label of the multiobservation sample set is assumed, and this assumption condition is taken as the constraint condition of the optimization problem in LS-SVM. Thus, the B2C online marketing error of multimodel fusion is obtained. The category of multiobservation samples was determined by comparing the B2C online marketing errors of multimodel fusion under two assumptions. The B2C network marketing prediction method, stacking integrated learning method based on multimodel fusion, is adopted to build a multimachine learning algorithm embedded into the stacking integrated learning B2C network marketing prediction model. Through verification, it shows that the lower the correlation degree, the better the model prediction effect. Compared with the traditional single-model prediction, the B2C network marketing prediction method based on multimodel fusion stacking integrated learning method has higher prediction accuracy. The model prediction effect is better.
An Experimental Study on the Geotechnical, Mineralogical, and Swelling Behavior of KPK Expansive Soils
Authors: Zamin Bakht , Nasir Hassan , Mehmood Khalid , Iqbal Qaiser , Farooq Asim , Tufail Mohammad
Published: July 2021

Expansive soils are found in numerous regions of the world explicitly in arid and semiarid zones. These soils expand when absorbed moisture and shrink when released water. Such soil is viewed as a characteristic risk for infrastructures due to the shrink and swell behavior. These soils become more problematic when lightly or moderately loaded structures are built on them. The swelling and shrinkage in these soils chiefly happen due to the presence of montmorillonite minerals. The mineralogical and swell behavior of foundation soils is playing a vital role in the overall stability of a structure. These parameters are often ignored in the geotechnical report writing stage specifically in small projects, due to which, the durability and service life of the facilities are reduced and the maintenance cost is increased. To mitigate the potential damages in structures constructed on expansive soil, it is necessary to assess the mineralogical and swelling characteristics of expansive soil. The current study aims to determine the geotechnical, mineralogical, and swell behavior of the local expansive soils. Based on the results, the Karak soil has the highest plasticity index (PI) of 37% with a clay fraction of 28%, while the D.I. Khan soil has the least PI of 23% with a clay fraction of 17%. Similarly, Karak’s soil contained a higher percentage of montmorillonite (Rp = 8.9%). The maximum values of swell pressure, swell potential, and 1D deformation are 280 kPa, 12.5%, and 1.92 mm for the Karak soil, 6.45% 150 kPa, and 1.38 mm for D.I. Khan soil, and 10.5%, 245 kPa, and 1.64 mm for Kohat soil, respectively. This concludes that Karak’s soil has high plasticity and swell characteristics than Kohat and D.I. Khan soil. The swell characteristic of expansive soils increases with the increase in the percentage of the fine specifically the clay fraction. Furthermore, the Karak soil is more critical than Kohat and D.I. khan soil for lightly loaded structures.
Attenuation Law of Train‐Induced Vibration Response of Subgrade in Beijing–Harbin Railway
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Ling Xianzhang , Wang Lina , Zhao Yingying
Published: July 2021

To investigate environmental vibration in the case of railway subgrade in seasonally frozen regions, field experiments were conducted on the Beijing–Harbin railway subgrade of China in autumn and winter. Vibration acceleration and vibration level attenuation law were analysed based on monitoring results. Accordingly, the influence of the subgrade freeze‐thaw states, vehicle load, train formation, and running speed on the subgrade surface environmental vibration was analysed. The vibration response of the subgrade decreased with an increase in the distance from the track. The attenuation curve of the vibration acceleration can be fitted using the negative exponential function, and the attenuation curve of the vibration level can be fitted using the linear function. Additionally, the subgrade vibration response during the frozen period was greater than that during the unfrozen period owing to increased strength and rigidity and decreased damping ratio after subgrade freezing, which increased the vibration response. Moreover, the vibration intensity of the subgrade increased with increase in the vehicle load and formation and decreased with an increase in the driving speed within a particular speed range. The findings of this study provide an objective basis for railway subgrade design and disaster assessment in cold regions of China.
Selection of Crowd in Crowdsourcing for Smart Intelligent Applications: A Systematic Mapping Study
Authors: Shang Rui , Ma YongMei , Ali Farhad , Hu ChuanShuang , Nazir Shah , Wei Huafei , Khan Abdullah
Published: July 2021

Crowdsourcing is a task-solving model in which human crowd is hired to solve a particular task. During the crowdsourcing process, the crowd selection is performed in order to select appropriate crowd workers for a specific task; without appropriate selection of crowd workers, the process of crowdsourcing is aimless. The main goal of this paper was to identify the features of crowd in crowdsourcing activity, reasons behind crowd participation in the activity of crowdsourcing, and the existing techniques that were utilized for crowd selection in crowdsourcing. Search strings with corresponding keywords were used to capture relevant studies related to crowdsourcing, and crowd selection was classified under conference papers, journal articles, proceedings, and book chapters. 81 relevant studies are selected from 7 digital data repositories using a search strategy. In crowdsourcing practices, crowd selection was considerably addressed. Nonetheless, it has been noticed that the selection is based only on a single crowd worker attribute such as confidence, past success, efficiency, and experience. For the efficiency and effectiveness of the crowdsourcing operation, crowd selection on multicriteria features is essential.
VVC In‐Loop Filtering Based on Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Bouaafia Soulef , Messaoud Seifeddine , Khemiri Randa , Sayadi Fatma Elzahra
Published: July 2021

With the rapid advancement in many multimedia applications, such as video gaming, computer vision applications, and video streaming and surveillance, video quality remains an open challenge. Despite the existence of the standardized video quality as well as high definition (HD) and ultrahigh definition (UHD), enhancing the quality for the video compression standard will improve the video streaming resolution and satisfy end user’s quality of service (QoS). Versatile video coding (VVC) is the latest video coding standard that achieves significant coding efficiency. VVC will help spread high‐quality video services and emerging applications, such as high dynamic range (HDR), high frame rate (HFR), and omnidirectional 360‐degree multimedia compared to its predecessor high efficiency video coding (HEVC). Given its valuable results, the emerging field of deep learning is attracting the attention of scientists and prompts them to solve many contributions. In this study, we investigate the deep learning efficiency to the new VVC standard in order to improve video quality. However, in this work, we propose a wide‐activated squeeze‐and‐excitation deep convolutional neural network (WSE‐DCNN) technique‐based video quality enhancement for VVC. Thus, the VVC conventional in‐loop filtering will be replaced by the suggested WSE‐DCNN technique that is expected to eliminate the compression artifacts in order to improve visual quality. Numerical results demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed model achieving approximately −2.85%, −8.89%, and −10.05% BD‐rate reduction of the luma (Y) and both chroma (U, V) components, respectively, under random access profile.
Postoperative Bone Marrow Lesions (BMLs) Are Associated with Pain Severity in Patients Undergoing Open Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy (OWHTO)
Authors: Zhu Bo , Wang Tong-Fu , Chen De-Sheng , Zhu Jia-Wang , Wang Zeng-Liang , Cao Jian-Gang , Zhao Jun-Wei
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between postoperative bone marrow lesions (BMLs) and pain severity in patients undergoing open wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO). We reviewed the patients undergoing OWHTO between April 2018 and April 2020. The demographic and clinical data of patients were collected. Clinically, VAS and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) were used to assess pain level and functional outcomes of patients. The MRI Osteoarthritis Knee Score (MOAKS) was used to assess the total BMLs size in medial tibiofemoral (MTF), lateral tibiofemoral (LTF), and patellofemoral (PF) joints. 98 patients were enrolled in the study, including 57 male and 41 female patients. The VAS scores improved significantly from 6.1 ± 0.8 to 1.5 ± 0.9 (p < 0.001), and all subscales of KOOS improved significantly after surgery (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the pre‐ and postoperative total BML size of PF and LTF joints (p > 0.05). We observed significant improvements in the total BML size of MTF joint (p < 0.001). The VAS scores and KOOS pain scores improved better in patients without postoperative MTF joint BMLs (p < 0.001). Postoperative MTF joint BMLs were correlated with postoperative VAS (p < 0.001) and KOOS pain (p < 0.001). Our study demonstrates that MTF joint BMLs improved significantly after OWTHO. We confirmed that the presence of postoperative MTF joint BMLs are strongly associated with pain severity. The greater the improvement in postoperative MTF joint BMLs, the less pain. Our findings provide valuable understandings of OWHTO in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and potential future directions for KOA treatment approaches.
Prediction of Future State Based on Up‐To‐Date Information of Green Development Using Algorithm of Deep Neural Network
Authors: Sun Liyan , Yang Li , Zhu Junqi
Published: July 2021

In this study, the focus was on the development of green energy and future prediction for the consumption of current energy sources and green energy development using an improved deep learning (DL) algorithm. In addition to the analysis of the current energy consumption used for the natural gas and oil as fuel, deep neural network algorithm is used to train the system as well as to process the data obtained previously, ranging from literature from the year 2003 until the year 2019, for consumption of fuel. Also, using the proposed algorithm to predict the development of green energy consumption till 2030 is presented in terms of solar and wind generators. The resulting study also focuses on depletion of energy currently used or pollution caused because of it. The green energy controlling issue can take effect by using multiple layers of handling different features extracted from different sources and then learning the system to control it.This study aims to take advantage of carbon emissions to reduce their impact and dependence in the future on environmentally friendly renewable energies. Predicting the correct and precise amount of energy consumption and increasing the amount of environmentally friendly energy lead to a healthy ecosystem. The expected green energy consumption in the future is almost 78.25 EJ in 2030 and will be, in total energy average, 56% in 2045. The aim is to reduce dependency on costly and environmentally harmful fuels.
Genetic Analysis of Functional Rare Germline Variants across Nine Cancer Types from an Electronic Health Record Linked Biobank
Authors: Shivakumar Manu , Miller Jason E. , Dasari Venkata Ramesh , Zhang Yanfei , Lee Ming Ta Michael , Carey David J. , Gogoi Radhika , Kim Dokyoon
Published: July 2021

Background:

Rare variants play an essential role in the etiology of cancer. In this study, we aim to characterize rare germline variants that impact the risk of cancer.

Methods:

We performed a genome-wide rare variant analysis using germline whole exome sequencing (WES) data derived from the Geisinger MyCode initiative to discover cancer predisposition variants. The case–control association analysis was conducted by binning variants in 5,538 patients with cancer and 7,286 matched controls in a discovery set and 1,991 patients with cancer and 2,504 matched controls in a validation set across nine cancer types. Further, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) germline data were used to replicate the findings.

Results:

We identified 133 significant pathway–cancer pairs (85 replicated) and 90 significant gene–cancer pairs (12 replicated). In addition, we identified 18 genes and 3 pathways that were associated with survival outcome across cancers (Bonferroni P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

In this study, we identified potential predisposition genes and pathways based on rare variants in nine cancers.

Impact:

This work adds to the knowledge base and progress being made in precision medicine.
Immunotherapy-Mediated Thyroid Dysfunction: Genetic Risk and Impact on Outcomes with PD-1 Blockade in Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Luo Jia , Martucci Victoria L. , Quandt Zoe , Groha Stefan , Murray Megan H. , Lovly Christine M. , Rizvi Hira , Egger Jacklynn V. , Plodkowski Andrew J. , Abu-Akeel Mohsen , Schulze Isabell , Merghoub Taha , Cardenas Eduardo , Huntsman Scott , Li Min , Hu Donglei , Gubens Matthew A. , Gusev Alexander , Aldrich Melinda C. , Hellmann Matthew D. , Ziv Elad
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

Genetic differences in immunity may contribute to toxicity and outcomes with immune checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) therapy, but these relationships are poorly understood. We examined the genetics of thyroid immune-related adverse events (irAE).

Experimental Design:

In patients with non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with CPIs at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) and Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC), we evaluated thyroid irAEs. We typed germline DNA using genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays and imputed genotypes. Germline SNP imputation was also performed in an independent Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) cohort. We developed and validated polygenic risk scores (PRS) for hypothyroidism in noncancer patients using the UK and VUMC BioVU biobanks. These PRSs were applied to thyroid irAEs and CPI response in patients with NSCLC at MSK, VUMC, and DFCI.

Results:

Among 744 patients at MSK and VUMC, thyroid irAEs occurred in 13% and were associated with improved outcomes [progression-free survival adjusted HR (PFS aHR) = 0.68; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.52–0.88]. The PRS for hypothyroidism developed from UK Biobank predicted hypothyroidism in the BioVU dataset in noncancer patients [OR per standard deviation (SD) = 1.33, 95% CI, 1.29–1.37; AUROC = 0.6]. The same PRS also predicted development of thyroid irAEs in both independent cohorts of patients treated with CPIs (HR per SD = 1.34; 95% CI, 1.08–1.66; AUROC = 0.6). The results were similar in the DFCI cohort. However, PRS for hypothyroidism did not predict CPI benefit.

Conclusions:

Thyroid irAEs were associated with response to anti–PD-1 therapy. Genetic risk for hypothyroidism was associated with risk of developing thyroid irAEs. Additional studies are needed to determine whether other irAEs also have shared genetic risk with known autoimmune disorders and the association with treatment response.
Transformation from Sinonasal Seromucinous Hamartoma to Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Rengifo David A. , Varadarajan Varun V. , Lai Jinping , Justice Jeb M.
Published: July 2021

Objectives: Sinonasal hamartomas are benign neoplasms composed of disorganized mature tissue elements. Epithelial variants include respiratory epithelial adenomatoid hamartoma (REAH) and seromucinous hamartoma (SMH). Malignant transformation of REAH is rarely reported; however, the malignant transformation of SMH to adenocarcinoma has not been described. We report the first case of a transformation from SMH to adenocarcinoma. Methods: The medical records of a patient presenting with sinonasal SMH with malignant transformation to adenocarcinoma were reviewed. The NCBI database was queried for the literature regarding SMH and malignant transformation of sinonasal hamartomas. Results: A 39-year-old man presented with a left nasal mass, nasal obstruction, and epistaxis. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a nonaggressive and heterogeneous left nasal mass with involvement of the middle turbinate and posterior ethmoid sinuses. He underwent endoscopic sinus surgery with complete excision of the mass. Pathology revealed SMH with focal areas of transition to low-grade adenocarcinoma characterized by stromal invasion but no bony, perineural, or lymphovascular invasion. Adjuvant treatment was not recommended. Literature review revealed no reported cases of malignant transformation of SMH. Conclusion: We report the first case of malignant transformation of SMH. Patients with SMH must be counseled that there is an extremely rare and potentially unrecognized risk of malignancy that may influence treatment and postoperative monitoring.
High-Normal Thyroid Function and Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation after Catheter Ablation: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Shu Zheyue , Chen Miao , Wang Qiqi , Lai Jiangtao , Zhao Jianqiang , Zhuo Chengui , Huang Yuan , Lv Ning , Wu Minglan , Zheng Liangrong
Published: July 2021

Background: Thyroid function is increasingly recognized as an important modifiable factor for atrial fibrillation (AF); however, it is unclear if the changes in thyroid hormones, even within the normal range, are associated with AF recurrence after catheter ablation. Methods: Consecutive paroxysmal AF patients who underwent catheter ablation were enrolled. Patients with abnormal thyroid hormones or previous thyroid illnesses were excluded. Patients were followed for 12 months or until they presented with the first episode of atrial tachyarrhythmia after a blanking period. Results: The study included 448 patients with a mean age of 61 (14) years, and 46% were women. After a 1-year follow-up, 104 (23.2%) patients experienced atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrences after an ablation procedure. Recurrence was significantly different among quartile groups of thyroid function, with highest FT4 and FT3 levels associated with the greatest risk of recurrence (p < 0.001 and p = 0.024, respectively). FT4 and FT3 levels were independent predictors of atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence (hazard ratio 1.07 per 1 pmol/L increase in FT4, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.15, p = 0.036 and 1.31 per 1 pmol/L increase in FT3, 95% CI 1.01–1.71, p = 0.032). Conclusions: High-normal FT3 and FT4 levels are associated with AF recurrence after catheter ablation in this Chinese population. Attention to thyroid hormones could be valuable to assist in the management of AF.
Skin Barrier Damage due to Prolonged Mask Use among Healthcare Workers and the General Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Survey in China
Authors: Wan Xiao , Lu Quansheng , Sun Dandan , Wu Hong , Jiang Guan
Published: July 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resurged in localized areas in China. Individuals wear masks to prevent the spread of droplets. However, skin barrier damage occurs because of the prolonged use of masks. Objective: To investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors of skin injuries among healthcare workers (HCWs) and the general population during the COVID-19 outbreak. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study of skin barrier damage caused by wearing masks was conducted using an online questionnaire between December 10 and December 31, 2020. Data regarding demographics, characteristics of facial skin damage, and information on masks were registered. Multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with skin barrier damage, and odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to establish correlation strength. Results: A total of 1,538 responses were retrieved from 1,700 questionnaires (response rate, 90.47%), and 1,409 questionnaires were valid (effective response rate, 91.61%). The respondents comprised 567 HCWs (40.24%) and 842 individuals from the general population (59.76%). The prevalence of skin injuries was 46.03% among HCWs and 46.20% among the general population. History of chronic skin disease (OR, 6.01; 95% CI, 4.75–7.75), type of mask used (OR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.95–3.93), daily wearing time (OR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.36–1.82), and mask replacement cycle (OR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.68–0.86) were associated with skin barrier damage. Conclusion: There was a high incidence of skin barrier damage due to prolonged mask use among HCWs and the general population, and treatment and prevention were inadequate. Attention needs to be given to strengthening comprehensive health education and popularization of science.
Role of Autoantibodies in Neurodegenerative Dementia: An Emerging Association
Authors: Arshad Faheem , Varghese Feba , Paplikar Avanthi , Gangadhar Yashwanth , Ramakrishnan Subasree , Chaudhuri Jaydip Ray , Mahadevan Anita , Alladi Suvarna
Published: July 2021

Objective: In the background of an emerging role for immune dysregulation in neurodegenerative dementias, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between systemic autoimmunity and dementia. The objective was to study the frequency and profile of disease-specific autoantibodies in Alzheimer’s dementia (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Methods: Immunological testing was performed in a large cohort of neurodegenerative dementia diagnosed based on standard clinical and imaging criteria. Patients were evaluated for the presence of autoantibodies specific for systemic autoimmune diseases that included anti-extractable nuclear antibody profile, rheumatoid factor antibody (RA), perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (p-ANCA), and cytoplasmic anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (c-ANCA) in serum. Results: Of 174 patients with degenerative dementia (FTD = 114, AD = 53, and DLB = 7) evaluated with immunological testing, 18.9% (n = 33) were seropositive for autoantibodies. The common antibodies detected were anti-Scl-70 (25%), anti-Ro-52 (18.7%), anti-nRNP-Sm (12.5%), and anti-CENP-B (9.3%). There were no significant systemic complaints in the majority of patients. A wider range of antibodies were positive in FTD compared to AD and DLB. While no difference was observed in the mean age, sex, or duration of illness between seropositive and negative patients, family history of dementia was more frequent among seronegative patients. Conclusion: Our findings indicate an emerging role for immune dysregulation in patients with classical neurodegenerative dementias, especially those with FTD. These autoantibodies could play a role in immune degradation of protein aggregates that characterize neurodegeneration. Study findings emphasize the need to explore the complex relationship between systemic autoimmunity and neurodegenerative dementia.
Evaluation of Undescended Testes in Newborns: It Is Really Simple, Just Not Easy
Authors: Promm Martin , Dittrich Annika , Brandstetter Susanne , Fill-Malfertheiner Sara , Melter Michael , Seelbach-Göbel Birgit , Apfelbacher Christian , Kabesch Michael , Rösch Wolfgang H. ,   the KUNO-Kids Study Group
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The evaluation of the testicular position in newborns is important to ensure timely initiation of therapy. The aim of our study was to assess the reliability of a routinely performed screening examination. Patients and Methods: Newborns were examined by a pediatrician between 48 and 72 h after birth. Boys with suspected cryptorchidism were double-checked by a pediatric urologist within 24 h. Results: 1,181/2,353 children included in the study between June 2015 and December 2017 were male. Eight hundred sixty-one boys could be included in this analysis; 5.8% (n = 50) were diagnosed with undescended testis (UDT) by the pediatrician. 30/50 boys were double-checked at the Department of Pediatric Urology. Forty percent (20/50) were lost to follow-up. In 43% (13/30), the diagnosis could be confirmed. Three former studies had shown a relevant discrepancy in the results of the diagnosis of UDT made by health care providers and urologists/pediatric surgeons. To our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the testicular position in male newborns in such a large prospective birth cohort study by physicians with ranging expertise within 1 day. Conclusion: Further treatment for UDT is based on clinical examination. Ours and previous studies can clearly show the various findings in boys suspected having UDT. Therefore, it is essential that the diagnosis is confirmed by a specialist before a therapy is initiated.
Serum Levels of Soluble Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products Are Reduced in Euthyroid Children with Newly Diagnosed Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Aversa Tommaso , Ruggeri Rosaria Maddalena , Corica Domenico , Cristani Maria Teresa , Pepe Giorgia , Vicchio Teresa Manuela , Alibrandi Angela , Trimarchi Francesco , Cannavò Salvatore , Pajno Giovanni Battista , Wasniewska Malgorzata Gabriela
Published: July 2021

Objective: No data are available on advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their soluble receptor (sRAGE) in pediatric patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT). The present study was aimed to simultaneously evaluate serum levels of sRAGE, AGEs, and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) and investigate the relationships between these oxidative stress markers and clinical and biochemical parameters of thyroid function in euthyroid children with HT. Design: This is a case-control study carried out in a single university hospital center. Methods: We enrolled 19 newly diagnosed euthyroid HT pediatric patients (3 M, 16 F; median age 12.44 years, range 6.54–15.81 years) and 16 age-, sex-, and BMI-matched healthy controls (5 M, 11 F; median age 12.83 years, range 5.68–15.07 years). None was on levothyroxine treatment. The exclusion criteria were autoimmune, inflammatory, and infection comorbidities. Patients did not differ significantly from controls with regard to lipid or for anthropometric parameters. Results: sRAGE levels were significantly lower in HT patients (median 414.30 pg/mL, range 307.30–850.30 pg/mL) than in controls (561.30, 273.20–1121.60 pg/mL; p = 0.034). No differences emerged between patients and controls with regard to serum AGEs (124.25 AU/g prot, 71.98–186.72 vs. 133.90, 94.06–200.78 AU/g prot, p = 0.707) and AOPPs (1.13 nmol/mL, 0.62–1.83 vs. 1.17, 0.76–1.42 nmol/mL, p = 0.545). Conclusions: sRAGE levels were decreased in euthyroid children/adolescents at the onset of HT, suggesting that autoimmunity per se seems to play an important role in such a reduction of sRAGE, irrespective of any functional alteration. Children and adolescents suffering from HT may exhibit increased susceptibility to oxidative damage, even when in euthyroid status.
Aneurysm Arising at the Origin of a Duplicated Middle Cerebral Artery
Authors: Alliez Jean Roch , Manera Luis
Published: July 2021

A duplicated middle cerebral artery (DMCA) is a common anomaly. However, aneurysms arising from the origin of a DMCA are extremely rare. A 22-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with a World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies grade 2 subarachnoid haemorrhage. Four-vessel angiography revealed a DMCA and an aneurysm arising from the origin of this artery. The aneurysm was successfully treated by embolization, and the patient was discharged 2 weeks later. Ruptured aneurysms arising from the origin of a DMCA can be successfully treated by embolization. These aneurysms are small and 3D-computed tomography reconstruction is mandatory to detect them. It is important to preserve the DMCA during the treatment procedure.
Effects of Bryophyllum pinnatum Administration on Wistar Rat Pregnancy: Biochemical and Histological Aspects
Authors: Hosomi Jorge Kioshi , Facina Anamaria da Silva , Simões Manuel de Jesus , Nakamura Mary Uchiyama
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Bryophyllum pinnatum is widely used in folk medicine. It has neuropharmacological, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective effects, among others. It also acts on uterine contractility. It is prescribed by practitioners of anthroposophic medicine for preterm labor, insomnia, and emotional disorders, and has other potential uses in obstetrics. As all drugs currently used in preterm labor have side effects, new tocolytic agents remain an area of active research. Objective: To evaluate the effect of B. pinnatum mother tincture (MT) on albino rats and their offspring throughout pregnancy from a biochemical and histological standpoint. Methods: Longitudinal, prospective, randomized controlled bioassay. This is the second stage of a trial that investigated 60 animals distributed across six equal groups: controls C1 and C2, which received 1 and 25 times the vehicle dose (30% ethanol), B1 and B2 (1- and 25-fold doses of B. pinnatum MT), and B3 and B4 (which received 50- and 100-fold doses of B. pinnatum concentrate). At this stage, blood chemistry parameters (glucose, alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST], creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen) were measured in dams, as well as histological aspects of dam liver, kidney, placenta, and uterine tissue and fetal liver, kidney, heart, and brain. Results: No differences were found between group B1 (therapeutic dose) and its control C1 in relation to glucose, AST, ALT, and creatinine. Group B2 exhibited lower glucose levels than groups C1, B3, and B4. There was no difference in AST across groups. Groups B3 and B4 exhibited higher ALT levels than groups C1 and B1. Groups B1–B4 exhibited higher urea nitrogen levels than group C1. Creatinine levels were higher in groups B2 and B3 than group C1. On morphological evaluation, fatty infiltration of the liver was observed in the alcoholic vehicle control groups (C1 and C2). Conclusions: Daily administration of B. pinnatum at therapeutic doses (group B1) to pregnant albino rats appears to be safe, with reduced glucose at dose B2, elevated ALT at doses B3 and B4, and increased urea at doses B1 to B4 and creatinine at B2 and B3, but never exceeding the normal reference range. It was not associated with histological changes in specimens of the maternal or fetal structures of interest.