bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urea Application Rate for Crop Straw Decomposition in Temperate China
Authors: Wang Y. , Wang H. , Gao C. , Seglah P. A. , Bi Y.
Published: December 2021

Returning straw to the field has become the most important straw utilization method in China. The aim of this research was to study the appropriate amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied when returning the straw of three major crops (wheat, rice, and corn) to the field in areas under low to high yield levels based on the demand of nitrogen for microbial decomposition of straw. Under the condition of returning 100% straw to the field, we developed the formula for calculating the nitrogen application rate and estimated the urea application rate for the three major grain crops. The results showed that returning straws of wheat, early-season rice, middle-season rice and late-season rice, and corn to the field with urea application at the rate of about 150 kg/ha, 120～135 kg/ha, 75 kg/ha, and 75～90 kg/ha, respectively, can provide sufficient nitrogen for microbial decomposition. The urea application rate for returning 100% wheat straw to the field in Huang-Huai-Hai region, Middle-Lower Yangtze region, Loess plateau region, and Northwest arid region was 135–230 kg/ha, 110–190 kg/ha, 85–145 kg/ha, and 95–165 kg/ha, respectively. 52.5–98.5 kg/ha of urea was used for 100% early rice straw returning to the field in Middle-Lower Yangtze region and South China. In addition, the urea application rate for 100% middle-late rice straw returning to the field was 95–180 kg/ha, 100–185 kg/ha, 95–175 kg/ha, and 75–140 kg/ha, respectively. The rate of urea application for 100% corn straw returning to the field in Northeast China, Huang-Huai-Hai, Northwest arid region, and Southwest China was 60–135 kg/ha, 50–115 kg/ha, 60–135 kg/ha, and 45–105 kg/ha, respectively. The amount of nitrogen fertilizer required for the total return of crop straw is not only affected by crop straw C : N, yield per unit area, and ratio of grass to grain but also affected by straw returning mode, regional nitrogen application level, and other factors. Therefore, the amount of nitrogen fertilizer should be adjusted according to the type of cropping system, soil, and climatic conditions of the specific location. This substantial N input for stimulating straw decomposition may favor N losses with nitrate leaching and nitrous oxide emissions and hold a potential for soil N eutrophication in the long term if the level is not carefully adjusted to the N requirement of the subsequent crops and changes in soil organic matter levels.
Efficient Detection of Large-Scale Multimedia Network Information Data Anomalies Based on the Rule-Extracting Matrix Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Jie
Published: December 2021

With the continuous development of multimedia social networks, online public opinion information is becoming more and more popular. The rule extraction matrix algorithm can effectively improve the probability of information data to be tested. The network information data abnormality detection is realized through the probability calculation, and the prior probability is calculated, to realize the detection of abnormally high network data. Practical results show that the rule-extracting matrix algorithm can effectively control the false positive rate of sample data, the detection accuracy is improved, and it has efficient detection performance.
Recognition of High Difference Features in Urban Planning Images Based on Morphological Filtering
Authors: Liu Peipei
Published: December 2021

As an effective information carrier, image is the main source for human beings to obtain and exchange information. Therefore, the application field of image processing involves all aspects of human life and work. Image enhancement is an important part of image processing and plays an important role in the whole process of image processing. This paper mainly studies the image enhancement method based on partial differential equation. By analysing the combination of partial differential equation theory and enhancement, aiming at the shortcomings of low recognition accuracy, high error rate, and long time consuming in the current method of urban planning image feature recognition, a feature enhancement and simulation of urban planning image based on partial differential equation method is proposed; the preprocessing of urban planning image is realized by collecting the urban planning image. On the basis of preprocessing the urban planning image, the urban planning image is divided into several equal area subareas; the pixel gray value of each subarea and the average value of pixel distribution density of node landscape image are calculated; and whether the pixel points are at the edge of urban planning image is judged by setting the comprehensive mean threshold. According to the judgment results, the high difference features of urban planning images are intelligently recognized. Simulation results show that the proposed method can realize efficient and accurate recognition of high difference features in urban planning images.
Effect of Narrative Nursing Intervention Based on Targeted Nursing Intervention on Anxiety and Nursing Satisfaction of Patients with Malignant Tumors Undergoing Chemotherapy
Authors: Xu Huixia , Xu Guoping , Liu Ying , Mu Xuejing , Liu Yang , Hu Haiping
Published: December 2021

Objective. To explore the effect of narrative nursing intervention based on targeted nursing intervention on anxiety and nursing satisfaction of patients with malignant tumors undergoing chemotherapy. Methods. 120 malignant tumor patients treated with chemotherapy in our hospital from January 2019 to January 2020 were selected as the research objects and randomly divided into group A and group B, with 60 cases in each group. The targeted nursing intervention was performed to group B, and the targeted nursing intervention centering on narrative nursing was performed to group A, so as to compare their distress thermometer (DT) scale scores, depression and anxiety scale scores, Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire (MCMQ) scores, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) scores for quality of life, and nursing satisfaction. Results. After nursing intervention, group A obtained 5.00 ± 1.20 points in the DT score, which were significantly lower than group B (

P
<
0.05

); and group A achieved significantly lower depression and anxiety scale scores (

P
<
0.001

), better MCMQ scores (

P
<
0.05

), and higher FACT-G scores (

P
<
0.05

) and nursing satisfaction (

P
<
0.05

) than group B. Conclusion. The targeted nursing intervention based primarily on narrative nursing can greatly reduce negative emotions, alleviate anxiety, and improve confidence in treatment and quality of life for malignant tumor patients undergoing chemotherapy, with higher nursing satisfaction, which should be promoted and applied in the practice.
Towards Effective Detection of Recent DDoS Attacks: A Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Ortet Lopes Ivandro , Zou Deqing , Ruambo Francis A , Akbar Saeed , Yuan Bin
Published: December 2021

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) is a predominant threat to the availability of online services due to their size and frequency. However, developing an effective security mechanism to protect a network from this threat is a big challenge because DDoS uses various attack approaches coupled with several possible combinations. Furthermore, most of the existing deep learning- (DL-) based models pose a high processing overhead or may not perform well to detect the recently reported DDoS attacks as these models use outdated datasets for training and evaluation. To address the issues mentioned earlier, we propose CyDDoS, an integrated intrusion detection system (IDS) framework, which combines an ensemble of feature engineering algorithms with the deep neural network. The ensemble feature selection is based on five machine learning classifiers used to identify and extract the most relevant features used by the predictive model. This approach improves the model performance by processing only a subset of relevant features while reducing the computation requirement. We evaluate the model performance based on CICDDoS2019, a modern and realistic dataset consisting of normal and DDoS attack traffic. The evaluation considers different validation metrics such as accuracy, precision, F1-Score, and recall to argue the effectiveness of the proposed framework against state-of-the-art IDSs.
Aerodynamic Characteristics of Radar Antenna in Stationary and Azimuthal Rotational Motion
Authors: Zhang Yanqi , Zhang Zhaoming
Published: December 2021

To study the effects of aerodynamic loads on the aerodynamic characteristics of stationary and azimuthally rotating antennas, wind tunnel force tests are conducted using solid and porous plate antennas. The variation of aerodynamic coefficient with azimuth angle is obtained when the antenna is stationary and azimuthal rotation, and the results are compared with those from numerical simulations. The variation in the aerodynamic coefficients with respect to the azimuth angle is found to be sinusoidal for both the solid and porous plate antennas rotating in azimuth. Compared with the antenna stationary, quantitative analysis indicates that the rotational motion increases the maximum value and root mean square of the aerodynamic coefficient. For solid plate antenna, |Cx|_max, |Cmy|_max, and |Cmz|_max increase by 41.6%, 15.0%, and 47.3%, respectively; Cx_rms, Cmy_rms, and Cmz_rms increase by 19.0%, 20.0%, and 19.1%, respectively. For porous plate antenna, |Cx|_max, |Cmy|_max, and |Cmz|_max increase by 30.6%, 71.4%, and 40.9%, respectively; Cx_rms, Cmy_rms, and Cmz_rms increase by 22.9%, 50%, and 20%, respectively. The wind tunnel tests verify the feasibility of using numerical simulations to obtain the flow field results. By analyzing the surface pressure coefficient and vortex core track distribution, the effects of azimuthal rotation on the aerodynamic characteristics of the antenna are further clarified.
Application of Partial Differential Equation Image Classification Methods to the Aesthetic Evaluation of Images
Authors: Liu Feifeng , Wang Weihu
Published: December 2021

The average accuracy of the fusion of color harmony and composition features is 75.17%, which is higher than that of a single feature. The classification accuracy of NP-DP-DCNN structure is about 1% higher than that of other methods and 1.77% higher than that of NP-DCNN. Traditional image aesthetic evaluation methods are only effective for specific image sets or specific style images and are not suitable for all types of images. Based on the introduction of the partial differential equation image filtering method, through the parallel supervised learning of aesthetic attribute labels, this paper extracts the global aesthetic depth features, adopts the partial differential equation to evolve the contour C constant, and constructs a convolution neural network. The structure of a convolution kernel learned by using parallel network structure achieves better classification performance. Through the aesthetic evaluation experiment, the overall test accuracy is improved by 0.58% and the average accuracy of the integration of color harmony and composition features is 75.17%, which is higher than that of a single feature. The classification accuracy of NP-DP-DCNN structure is about 1% higher than that of other methods and 1.83% higher than that of NP-DCNN. It has achieved better test accuracy than before in the seven subcategories with discrimination between high aesthetic and low aesthetic images. It has achieved better classification performance than the traditional feature extraction methods in the public dataset CUHK database, and it has excellent aesthetic reference value.
Treatment of Acute Graft-versus-Host Disease in Liver Transplant Recipients
Authors: Kim Edward , Adeel Alina , Bozorgzadeh Adel , Amano Shinya , Barry Curtis T. , Daly Jennifer S. , Devuni Deepika , Elaba Zendee , Houk Laura , Martins Paulo N. , Movahedi Babak , Ramanathan Muthalagu , Theodoropoulos Nicole M.
Published: December 2021

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGvHD) is a rare complication of liver transplantation associated with high morbidity and mortality. Death typically occurs due to complications related to severe infection, shock, and multiorgan failure. The clinical presentation involves dysfunction of multiple organ systems with overlapping symptoms that often results in a diagnostic delay. As there are a limited number of cases reported in the literature, there are no clear guidelines for treatment. Many different therapeutic measures have been utilized that target various immune system pathways, but steroids remain the first line of therapy. We report on two patients who developed aGvHD after liver transplantation who were treated with ruxolitinib, a novel Janus kinase 1/2 (JAK) inhibitor that has been shown to improve outcomes in steroid refractory cases of aGvHD after allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. We reviewed the literature to discuss various therapeutic options currently available for aGvHD after liver transplantation.
Application of Traction Power Supply for Metro Rail Transit Based on Electromagnetic Sensing Technology
Authors: Shang Junxia
Published: December 2021

With the gradual acceleration of modernization, metro projects have been opened for the development and construction of urban areas. How to ensure the smooth operation of subway project in public service has become the focus of urban public safety service research. In view of this content, this paper studies the subway field of urban rail transit operation and improves the public safety of urban rail transit operation. Firstly, the factors affecting the track traction power supply are analyzed, the anti‐interference technology of ring array electromagnetic sensor is added, and the research scheme is formulated according to the track potential research standard to ensure the operation of the power supply system. Then, the electromagnetic sensor traction algorithm is used to detect the subway track power supply signal, and the working characteristics and advantages of single electromagnetic induction and double electromagnetic induction are analyzed. The experimental results show that compared with the traditional electromagnetic sensor power supply signal detection algorithm, the content of this paper can judge whether the power supply is normal according to electromagnetic induction, detect whether the subway traffic deviates from the track traction coordinates, and understand the size of the deviation from the track. It improves the efficiency of traction power supply detection, stabilizes the running track of subway traffic, and is conducive to the protection and development of urban public safety.
Survival Trends of Right- and Left-Sided Colon Cancer across Four Decades: A Norwegian Population-Based Study
Authors: Hamfjord Julian , Myklebust Tor Åge , Larsen Inger Kristin , Kure Elin H. , Glimelius Bengt , Guren Tormod K. , Tveit Kjell M. , Guren Marianne G.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Patients with right-sided colon cancer (RCC) and left-sided colon cancer (LCC) differ clinically and molecularly. The main objective was to investigate stage-stratified survival and recurrence of RCC and LCC across four 10-year periods.

Methods:

Patients diagnosed from 1977 to 2016 with colon adenocarcinoma were included from the Cancer Registry of Norway. Primary tumor location (PTL) was defined as RCC if proximal and LCC if distal to the splenic flexure. Multivariable regressions were used to estimate HRs for overall survival (OS), recurrence-free survival (RFS), survival after recurrence (SAR), and excess HRs (eHR) for relative survival (RS).

Results:

72,224 patients were eligible for analyses [55.1% (n = 39,769/72,224) had RCC]. In 1977 to 1986, there was no difference between LCC and RCC in OS [HR, 1.01; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.97–1.06; P = 0.581] or RS (eHR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.90–1.02; P = 0.179). In 2007 to 2016, LCC had significantly better OS (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.80–0.87; P < 0.001) and RS (eHR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.72–0.81; P < 0.001) compared with RCC. The gradually diverging and significantly favorable prognosis for LCC was evident for distant disease across all time periods and for regional disease from 2007 onward. There was no difference in RFS between LCC and RCC in patients less than 75 years during 2007 to 2016 (HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.91–1.08; P = 0.819); however, SAR was significantly better for LCC (HR, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.53–0.71; P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

A gradually diverging and increasingly favorable prognosis was observed for patients with LCC with advanced disease over the past four decades.

Impact:

Current PTL survival disparities stress the need for further exploring targetable molecular subgroups across and within different PTLs to further improve patient outcomes.
Early Appearance of Dendritic Alterations in Neocortical Pyramidal Neurons of the Ts65Dn Model of Down Syndrome
Authors: Uguagliati Beatrice , Stagni Fiorenza , Emili Marco , Giacomini Andrea , Russo Carla , Guidi Sandra , Bartesaghi Renata
Published: December 2021

Down syndrome (DS), which is due to triplication of chromosome 21, is constantly associated with intellectual disability (ID). ID can be ascribed to both neurogenesis impairment and dendritic pathology. These defects are replicated in the Ts65Dn mouse, a widely used model of DS. While neurogenesis impairment in DS is a fetal event, dendritic pathology occurs after the first postnatal months. Neurogenesis alterations across the life span have been extensively studied in the Ts65Dn mouse. In contrast, there is scarce information regarding dendritic alterations at early life stages in this and other models, although there is evidence for dendritic alterations in adult mouse models. Thus, the goal of the current study was to establish whether dendritic alterations are already present in the neonatal period in Ts65Dn mice. In Golgi-stained brains, we quantified the dendritic arbors of layer II/III pyramidal neurons in the frontal cortex of Ts65Dn mice aged 2 (P2) and 8 (P8) days and their euploid littermates. In P2 Ts65Dn mice, we found a moderate hypotrophy of the apical and collateral dendrites but a patent hypotrophy of the basal dendrites. In P8 Ts65Dn mice, the distalmost apical branches were missing or reduced in number, but there were no alterations in the collateral and basal dendrites. No genotype effects were detected on either somatic or dendritic spine density. This study shows dendritic branching defects that mainly involve the basal domain in P2 Ts65Dn mice and the apical but not the other domains in P8 Ts65Dn mice. This suggests that dendritic defects may be related to dendritic compartment and age. The lack of a severe dendritic pathology in Ts65Dn pups is reminiscent of the delayed appearance of patent dendritic alterations in newborns with DS. This similarly highlights the usefulness of the Ts65Dn model for the study of the mechanisms underlying dendritic alterations in DS and the design of possible therapeutic interventions.
Paternidad adolescente: significados y prácticas desde una perspectiva socioconstruccionista
Authors: Gómez González María del Pilar , Ramírez Rodríguez Juan Carlos
Published: December 2021

(analítico)La paternidad en la adolescencia tradicionalmente ha sido estigmatizada, llevando a la generación de barreras y desconocimiento de vivencias, motivaciones y significados. Por ello se planteó como objetivo comprender la construcción y significados de la paternidad presente y activa de hombres adolescentes que residen en Guadalajara, Jalisco, México. Se realizó un estudio cualitativo socioconstruccionista en el que participaron hombres de 16 a 19 años que eran padres o que su pareja estaba en embarazo. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas y observación de redes sociales; se realizó un análisis de contenido. Los resultados dan cuenta de la intersección entre masculinidades y paternidades, demostrando que en las motivaciones para su paternidad se destacan la búsqueda de reconocimiento social, la conformación de una familia y la búsqueda de suplir necesidades emocionales a través de la pareja y del hijo/hija.
Palabras clave: Paternidad, hombres adolescentes, masculinidades, género, socioconstruccionismo.
Supporting Physical Activity in Patients and Populations During Life Events and Transitions: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Authors: Lane-Cordova Abbi D. , Jerome Gerald J. , Paluch Amanda E. , Bustamante Eduardo Esteban , LaMonte Michael J. , Pate Russell R. , Weaver R. Glenn , Webber-Ritchey Kashica J. , Gibbs Bethany Barone ,   on behalf of the Committee on Physical Activity of the American Heart Association Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health
Published: December 2021

Achieving recommended levels of physical activity is important for optimal cardiovascular health and can help reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Emerging evidence suggests that physical activity fluctuates throughout the life course. Some life events and transitions are associated with reductions in physical activity and, potentially, increases in sedentary behavior. The aim of this scientific statement is to first provide an overview of the evidence suggesting changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior across life events and transitions. A second aim is to provide guidance for health care professionals or public health workers to identify changes and promote physical activity during life events and transitions. We offer a novel synthesis of existing data, including evidence suggesting that some subgroups are more likely to change physical activity behaviors in response to life events and transitions. We also review the evidence that sedentary behavior changes across life events and transitions. Tools for health care professionals to assess physical activity using simple questions or wearable devices are described. We provide strategies for health care professionals to express compassion as they ask about life transitions and initiate conversations about physical activity. Last, resources for life phase–specific, tailored physical activity support are included. Future research needs include a better characterization of physical activity and sedentary behavior across life events and transitions in higher-risk subgroups. Development and testing of interventions designed specifically to combat declines in physical activity or increases in sedentary behavior during life events and transitions is needed to establish or maintain healthy levels of these cardiovascular health–promoting behaviors.
Brief Consent Methods Enable Rapid Enrollment in Acute Stroke Trial: Results From the TICH-2 Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Law Zhe Kang , Appleton Jason P. , Scutt Polly , Roberts Ian , Al-Shahi Salman Rustam , England Timothy J. , Werring David J. , Robinson Thompson , Krishnan Kailash , Dineen Robert A. , Laska Ann Charlotte , Lyrer Philippe A. , Egea-Guerrero Juan Jose , Karlinski Michal , Christensen Hanne , Roffe Christine , Bereczki Daniel , Ozturk Serefnur , Thanabalan Jegan , Collins Ronan , Beridze Maia , Ciccone Alfonso , Duley Lelia , Shone Angela , Bath Philip M. , Sprigg Nikola ,   the TICH-2 Investigators
Published: December 2021

Background:

Seeking consent rapidly in acute stroke trials is crucial as interventions are time sensitive. We explored the association between consent pathways and time to enrollment in the TICH-2 (Tranexamic Acid in Intracerebral Haemorrhage-2) randomized controlled trial.

Methods:

Consent was provided by patients or by a relative or an independent doctor in incapacitated patients, using a 1-stage (full written consent) or 2-stage (initial brief consent followed by full written consent post-randomization) approach. The computed tomography-to-randomization time according to consent pathways was compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify variables associated with onset-to-randomization time of ≤3 hours.

Results:

Of 2325 patients, 817 (35%) gave self-consent using 1-stage (557; 68%) or 2-stage consent (260; 32%). For 1507 (65%), consent was provided by a relative (1 stage, 996 [66%]; 2 stage, 323 [21%]) or a doctor (all 2-stage, 188 [12%]). One patient did not record prerandomization consent, with written consent obtained subsequently. The median (interquartile range) computed tomography-to-randomization time was 55 (38–93) minutes for doctor consent, 55 (37–95) minutes for 2-stage patient, 69 (43–110) minutes for 2-stage relative, 75 (48–124) minutes for 1-stage patient, and 90 (56–155) minutes for 1-stage relative consents (
P
<0.001). Two-stage consent was associated with onset-to-randomization time of ≤3 hours compared with 1-stage consent (adjusted odds ratio, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.5–2.4]). Doctor consent increased the odds (adjusted odds ratio, 2.3 [1.5–3.5]) while relative consent reduced the odds of randomization ≤3 hours (adjusted odds ratio, 0.10 [0.03–0.34]) compared with patient consent. Only 2 of 771 patients (0.3%) in the 2-stage pathways withdrew consent when full consent was sought later. Two-stage consent process did not result in higher withdrawal rates or loss to follow-up.

Conclusions:

The use of initial brief consent was associated with shorter times to enrollment, while maintaining good participant retention. Seeking written consent from relatives was associated with significant delays.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.isrctn.com
; Unique identifier: ISRCTN93732214.
Who cares for the eggs? Analysis of egg attendance behaviour in Ranitomeya imitator, a poison frog with biparental care
Authors: Schulte Lisa M. , Summers Kyle
Published: December 2021

Dendrobatid poison frogs are known for their diverse parental care behaviours, including terrestrial egg attendance. While usually this behaviour is conducted by males, this study compared the pre-hatching investment of males and females in Ranitomeya imitator, a species with biparental care. Although males tended to spend more time with their eggs overall, there was no difference between sexes when comparing different types of care behaviour. Furthermore, both sexes increased general care behaviour when caring for more than one clutch. The finding that the sexes are relatively equal in their contribution to basic parental care forms provides a basis to understand why biparental care is stable in this species.
Improving a pest management tool for scenario analysis of economic populations of Globodera pallida
Authors: Koehler Ann-Kristin , Bell Christopher A. , Back Matthew A. , Urwin Peter E. , Atkinson Howard J.
Published: December 2021

Globodera pallida is the most damaging pest of potato in the UK. This work underpins enhancement of a well-established, web-based scenario analysis tool for its management by recommending additions and modifications of its required inputs and a change in the basis of yield loss estimates. The required annual decline rate of the dormant egg population is determined at the individual field sample level to help define the required rotation length by comparing the viable egg content of recovered cysts to that of newly formed cysts for the same projected area. The mean annual decline was 20.4 ± 1.4% but ranged from 4.0 to 39.7% annum−1 at the field level. Further changes were based on meta-analysis of previous field trials. Spring rainfall in the region where a field is located and cultivar tolerance influence yield loss. Tolerance has proved difficult to define for many UK potato cultivars in field trials but uncertainty can be avoided without detriment by replacing it with determinacy integers. They are already determined to support optimisation of nitrogen application rates. Multiple linear regression estimates that loss caused by pre-plant populations of up to 20 viable eggs (g soil)−1 varies from ca 0.2 to 2.0% (viable egg)−1 (g soil)−1 depending on cultivar determinacy and spring rainfall. Reliability of the outcomes from scenario analysis requires validation in field trials with population densities over which planting is advisable.
New records of Caddisflies (Insecta: Trichoptera) from India
Authors: PANDHER MANPREET SINGH , KAUR SIMARJIT , GARIMA DEEPTI , DUBEY ANIL KUMAR
Published: December 2021

Four species of Trichoptera are recorded for the first time from the geographical limits of India: Oecetis jacobsoni Ulmer 1930 and Marilia ceylanica Martynov 1936 (both from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Union Territory of India), Polyplectropus amphion Malicky 1997a from West Bengal, and Polyplectropus phrixos Malicky & Changthong 2006 (in Malicky et al. 2006) from Mizoram, respectively. Line drawings of all the newly recorded species and Hydropsyche saranganica Ulmer 1951 are given based on material collected from the geographical limits of India.
Improvement of the electromagnetic properties of blended electromagnetic shielding fabric of cotton/stainless steel/polyester based on multi-layer MXenes
Authors: Liu Zhe , He Sijia , Wang Haoyu , Wang Xiuchen
Published: December 2021

Blended electromagnetic shielding (EMS) fabrics of cotton/stainless steel/polyester have been widely applied. The porous structure of the fabric is the guarantee of its good comfort performance, but it also hinders the improvement of shielding efficiency and the endowing of wave absorption performance. To solve the above problems, this paper proposes a mixed resistance field based on fabric pores by the construction of multi-layer MXenes. Ti3AlC2 is etched by hydrochloric acid and lithium fluoride to generate hydrofluoric acid in situ to prepare multi-layer Ti3C2T x. The finishing experiments are designed to finish the fabric around the pores with Ti3C2T x impregnation. The enhancement effect and mechanism of the mixed resistance field on the shielding effectiveness and wave absorbing properties of the fabric are analyzed. The result shows that the multi-layer Ti3C2T x for textile finishing is prepared quickly and effectively using the proposed method. The micro media of the Ti3C2T x in the dispersion are adsorbed on the surface of various fibers, most of which are cotton fibers. The shielding effectiveness of the finished EMS fabric is improved significantly in the frequency ranges of 6.57–14 GHz and 11.97–18 GHz. The wave absorbing performances in the frequency range of 11.97–18 GHz are excellent. It is proved that the effect of the mixed resistance field of the pores was satisfactory. This paper provides a new way for the application of Ti3C2T x in EMS fabric, solves the disadvantages caused by pores, and can provide a reference for the design and production of wave absorbing EMS fabric.
Brain atrophy in acute ischaemic stroke patients treated with reperfusion therapy: a systematic review
Authors: Rastogi Aarushi , Weissert Robert , Bhaskar Sonu MM
Published: December 2021

Background

Brain atrophy (BA) may have a role in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in mediating outcomes after reperfusion therapy. The extent of this association is not well understood.

Purpose

: To examine the impact of pre-existing BA on functional outcome, survival, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH), and early neurological change in patients with AIS treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and/or endovascular thrombectomy (EVT).

Material and Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library were searched for studies on BA in AIS receiving reperfusion therapy. Studies were included if: (i) patients were aged ≥18 years; (ii) patients had been diagnosed with AIS; (iii) patients received IVT and/or EVT; (iv) studies reported on BA; (v) studies reported on post-reperfusion outcomes; and (vi) studies had a sample size of >25 patients.

Results

A total of 4444 patients from eight studies were included. Four out of seven studies reporting on 90-day functional outcome found pre-existing BA to be significantly associated with poor functional outcome. Moreover, two out of four studies found BA to be a significant predictor of 90-day mortality. None of the included studies reported a significant association of BA with sICH or early neurological deterioration.

Conclusion

This systematic review indicates a potential prognostic role of BA in AIS. Quantitative analysis of association of BA with outcomes in AIS is not possible given the heterogeneity in BA assessment and reporting across studies. Future studies using standardized BA assessment are warranted to clarify its association with clinical and safety outcomes in AIS.
Interrelationships among critical success factors for the planning of municipal solid waste management PPP projects in India using structural equation modelling
Authors: Ngullie Nzanthung , Maturi Krishna Chaitanya , Kalamdhad Ajay S , Laishram Boeing
Published: December 2021

This research aims at investigating the interrelationships between critical success factors (CSFs) in municipal solid waste management (MSWM) projects taken up in public–private partnership (PPP) mode in India and studies the extent to which they can affect project success. A three-step procedure was followed to identify the CSFs in MSWM. A conceptual structural equation model (SEM) was developed using cluster groupings of the identified CSFs to show their interrelationships. Data collection from the public sector and private sector waste management managers was done through a questionnaire survey. The respondents’ data were analysed in analysis of moment structures (AMOS) using structural equation modelling. The SEM analysis of the respondents’ data gives the most exemplary fitting measurement model with the 17 CSFs taken as components of five latent variables: external environment, financial characteristics, project planning and procurement, project operation and management and project stakeholders. The model shows the relationships between the constructs of CSFs for project success. This study contributes to current ideas by empirically identifying the interrelationships between the MSWM CSFs, which can help waste management professionals handle the CSFs rationally. Furthermore, the study shows that all the groups have a direct and positive impact on project success. The findings may only portray the opinion of solid waste management managers in India.
Preparation, characterization, and in vitro release kinetics of doxorubicin-loaded magnetosomes
Authors: Zhang Shuang , Fan Xinxin , Zhang Guojing , Wang Weidong , Yan Lei
Published: December 2021

The doxorubicin (DOX) was successfully coupled to the magnetosomes from Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans ( At. ferrooxidans) by genipin bridging. The parameters (magnetosome concentration, DOX concentration, genipin concentration-, and cross-link time) expected for temperature significantly influenced the coupling rate. Bacterial magnetosome-doxorubicin complexes (BMDCs) were characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), particle size analyzer and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Results indicated that BMDCs exhibited a mean particle size of 83.98 mm and displayed a negative charge. The chemical reaction occurring between CO and NH group and the physical adsorption predominated by electrostatic interaction were found to involve in coupling. BMDCs can release 40% of DOX in simulated gastrointestinal conditions within 38 h. Kinetic models including Higuchi, Korsmeyer–Peppas, Zero order, First order, Hixon-Crowell, Baker-Lonsdale, and Weibull and Gompertz were utilized to explore the release mechanism of DOX from BMDCs. All models were found to fit well (r2 ≥ 0.8144) with the release data and the Gompertz was the best fit model (r2 = 0.9742), implying that the complex mechanisms involving Fickian and Gompertz diffusion contributed to the release. These findings suggested that magnetosomes from At. ferrooxidans have great potential applications in biomedical and clinical fields as the carrier of target drug delivery systems in the future.
Miniature low-cost γ-radiation sensor for localization of radioactively marked lymph nodes
Authors: Behling Merlin , Wezel Felix , Pott Peter P
Published: December 2021

Detection of metastasis spread at an early stage of disease in lymph nodes can be achieved by imaging techniques, such as PET and fluoride-marked tumor cells. Intraoperative detection of small metastasis can be problematic especially in minimally invasive surgical settings. A γ-radiation sensor can be inserted in the situs to facilitate intraoperative localization of the lymph nodes. In the minimally invasive setting, the sensor must fit through the trocar and for robot-aided interventions, a small, capsule-like device is favorable. Size reduction could be achieved by using only a few simple electronic parts packed in a single-use sensor-head also leading to a low-cost device. This paper first describes the selection of an appropriate low-cost diode, which is placed in a sensor head (Ø 12 mm) and characterized in a validation experiment. Finally, the sensor and its performance during a detection experiment with nine subjects is evaluated. The subjects had to locate a 137Cs source (138 kBq activity, 612 keV) below a wooden plate seven times. Time to accomplish this task and error rate were recorded and evaluated. The time needed by the subjects to complete each run was 95 ± 68.1 s for the first trial down to 40 ± 23.9 s for the last. All subjects managed to locate the 137Cs source precisely. Further reduction in size and a sterilizable housing are prerequisites for in vitro tests on explanted human lymph nodes and finally in vivo testing.
Science rejection in Greece: Spirituality predicts vaccine scepticism and low faith in science in a Greek sample
Authors: Rutjens Bastiaan T. , Zarzeczna Natalia , van der Lee Romy
Published: December 2021

Recent research has identified spirituality as an important contributor to vaccine scepticism and low faith in science, particularly in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich and Democratic) nations. In the present study, we further tested the generalizability of these findings in a religious South-Eastern European country – Greece, with more extensive measures of key constructs. We replicate previous work using measures of improved construct validity. Spirituality was found to be the strongest predictor of vaccine scepticism and low faith in science. In addition, low science literacy was also predictive of vaccine rejection. Climate change scepticism was not associated with spirituality but with political conservatism, which corroborates previous findings. These results provide further evidence for two previously made observations: science scepticism is heterogeneous, and spirituality is an important factor in shaping science rejection.
A critical review of surgical strategies to minimise venous stenosis in arteriovenous grafts
Authors: Kingsmore David , Jackson Andrew , Stevenson Karen
Published: December 2021

It is inevitable that complications arising from surgical procedures are ascribed to surgical technique, and this applies to venous stenosis (VS) in arteriovenous grafts. However, despite a wide range of cellular studies, computer modelling, observational series and clinical trials, there remains uncertainty on whether surgical technique contributes to VS. This article reviews evidence from basic science, fluid dynamics and clinical data to try and rationalise the main surgical options to modify the occurrence of venous stenosis. There is sufficient data from diverse sources to make recommendations on clinical practice (size of target vein, shape of anastomosis, angle of approach, distance from venous needling, trauma to the target vein) whilst at the same time this emphasises the need to carefully report the practical aspects of surgical technique in future clinical trials.
Retail Investors’ Financial Risk Tolerance and Risk-taking Behaviour: The Role of Psychological Factors
Authors: Hemrajani Pragati , Rajni  , Dhiman Rahul
Published: December 2021

The aim of this article is to look at how two psychological factors affect financial risk tolerance (FRT) and financial risk-taking behaviour (FRB) of individual investors. The study also investigates the role of FRT in mediating the relationship between psychological factors and FRB. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect the information. For the study, a total of 303 completed questionnaires were used. The proposed research model was validated and assessed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The findings revealed some important experiences. Emotional intelligence and impulsiveness have a significant relationship with both FRT and FRB, according to the results. The findings also support FRT’s position as a mediating factor in the proposed research model. The results emphasize the importance of psychological factors in determining an individual’s FRT and FRB. FRT is a complex mechanism that entails more than just psychological considerations. As a result, further research is needed to decide which additional factors financial advisors can use to increase the explained variance in FRT inequalities.
A latent-class heteroskedastic hurdle trajectory model: patterns of adherence in obstructive sleep apnea patients on CPAP therapy
Authors: P. Den Teuling Niek G. , van den Heuvel Edwin R. , Aloia Mark S. , Pauws Steffen C.
Published: December 2021

Background

Sleep apnea patients on CPAP therapy exhibit differences in how they adhere to the therapy. Previous studies have demonstrated the benefit of describing adherence in terms of discernible longitudinal patterns. However, these analyses have been done on a limited number of patients, and did not properly represent the temporal characteristics and heterogeneity of adherence.

Methods

We illustrate the potential of identifying patterns of adherence with a latent-class heteroskedastic hurdle trajectory approach using generalized additive modeling. The model represents the adherence trajectories on three aspects over time: the daily hurdle of using the therapy, the daily time spent on therapy, and the day-to-day variability. The combination of these three characteristics has not been studied before.

Results

Applying the proposed model to a dataset of 10,000 patients in their first three months of therapy resulted in nine adherence groups, among which 49% of patients exhibited a change in adherence over time. The identified group trajectories revealed a non-linear association between the change in the daily hurdle of using the therapy, and the average time on therapy. The largest difference between groups was observed in the patient motivation score. The adherence patterns were also associated with different levels of high residual AHI, and day-to-day variability in leakage.

Conclusion

The inclusion of the hurdle model and the heteroskedastic model into the mixture model enabled the discovery of additional adherence patterns, and a more descriptive representation of patient behavior over time. Therapy adherence was mostly affected by a lack of attempts over time, suggesting that encouraging these patients to attempt therapy on a daily basis, irrespective of the number of hours used, could drive adherence. We believe the methodology is applicable to other domains of therapy or medication adherence.
Gait, physical function, and physical activity in three groups of home-dwelling older adults with different severity of cognitive impairment – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Taraldsen Kristin , Helbostad Jorunn L. , Follestad Turid , Bergh Sverre , Selbæk Geir , Saltvedt Ingvild
Published: December 2021

Background

The research on associations between gait, physical function, physical activity (PA), and cognitive function is growing. Still, clinical assessments of cognitive function and motor function is often kept separate. In this study, we aimed to look at a broad range of measures of gait, physical function, and PA in three groups of home-dwelling older adults with no or questionable dementia, mild dementia, and moderate/severe dementia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 100 home-dwelling older adults, recruited from an outpatient geriatric memory clinic. Severity of dementia was categorised using the clinical dementia rating scale (CDR), with no or questionable dementia (CDR score 0 and 0.5), mild dementia (CDR score 1) and moderate/severe dementia (CDR score 2 and 3). We used thigh worn accelerometers to measure daily PA, the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) to measure physical function, and an electronic gait mat to evaluate gait characteristics. Associations between severity of dementia and measures of PA, physical function, and gait characteristics were assessed by linear regression.

Results

Participants’ (mean age 78.9 (SD 6.7) years, 57% women) average gait speed was 0.93 m/sec, and average upright time was 301 min/day. Statistically significant associations were found for the severity of dementia and gait speed (p=0.002), step time (p=0.001), physical function (SPPB,p=0.007), and PA (upright time,p=0.031), after adjusting for age. Overall, having no or questionable dementia was associated with faster gait speed (mean difference 0.163 (95% CI: 0.053 to 0.273)), shorter step time (-0.043 (-0.082 to -0.005)), better SPPB score (1.7 (0.5 to 2.8)), and longer upright time (78.9 (18.9 to 139.0)), compared to those with mild dementia. Furthermore, having no or questionable dementia was also associated with faster gait speed and better SPPB scores, as compared to those with moderate to severe dementia. No evidence of any differences was found between the participants with the mild dementia versus the moderate to severe dementia.

Conclusions

After adjusting for age, we found that the no or questionable dementia group to be associated with better gait and physical function, and more PA, as compared with the two groups with mild or moderate/severe dementia. Evaluation of gait, physical function, and PA can add clinically important information of everyday functioning in memory clinics meeting geriatric patients, but investigations on how to use these results to guide interventions are still needed.
Imaging features and differences among the three primary malignant non-Wilms tumors in children
Authors: Zhu Yupeng , Fu Wangxing , Huang Yangyue , Sun Ning , Peng Yun
Published: December 2021

Background

The pathology, treatment and prognosis of malignant non-Wilms tumors (NWTs) are different, so it is necessary to differentiate these types of tumors. The purpose of this study was to review the clinical and imaging features of malignant NWTs and features of tumor metastasis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the CT images of 65 pediatric patients with NWTs from March 2008 to July 2020, mainly including clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK), malignant rhabdomyoma tumor of the kidney (MRTK) and renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Available pretreatment contrast-enhanced abdominal CT examinations were reviewed. The clinical features of the patients, imaging findings of the primary mass, and locoregional metastasis patterns were evaluated in correlation with pathological and surgical findings.

Results

The study included CCSK (22 cases), MRTK (27 cases) and RCC (16 cases). There were no significant differences observed among the sex ratios of CCSK, MRTK and RCC (all P > 0.05). Among the three tumors, the onset age of MRTK patients was the smallest, while that of RCC patients was the largest (all P < 0.05). The tumor diameter of CCSK was larger than that of MRTK and RCC (all P < 0.001). For hemorrhage and necrosis, the proportion of MRTK patients was larger than that of the other two tumors (P = 0.017). For calcification in tumors, the proportion of calcification in RCC was highest (P = 0.009). Only MRTK showed subcapsular fluid (P < 0.001). In the arterial phase, the proportion of slight enhancement in RCC was lower than that in the other two tumors (P = 0.007), and the proportion of marked enhancement was the highest (P = 0.002). In the venous phase, the proportion of slight enhancement in RCC was lower than that in the other two tumors (P < 0.001). Only CCSK had bone metastasis. There was no liver and lung metastasis in RCC.

Conclusions

NWTs have their own imaging and clinical manifestations. CCSK can cause vertebral metastasis, MRTK can cause subcapsular effusion, and RCC tumor density is usually high and calcification. These diagnostic points can play a role in clinical diagnosis.