bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a novel signature derived from single cell RNA‐sequencing for preoperative prediction of lymph node metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Dai Yibin , Wang Ziyu , Yan Enshi , Li Jin , Ge Han , Xiao Na , Cheng Jie , Diao Pengfei
Published: June 2022

Background

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is considered as an adverse prognostic indicator for cancer patients. Preoperative knowledge of LNM is valuable for pretreatment decision making. Here, we sought to develop and validate an LNM signature for preoperative prediction of LNM in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

By studying single cell RNA‐sequencing data (scRNA‐seq), differentially expressed mRNA were selected and analyzed through univariate logistic regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) to identify an LNM signature. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to establish an LNM nomogram incorporating LNM signature and T‐classification.

Results

The LNM signature was significantly associated with lymph node status and prognosis. The LNM signature and LNM nomogram displayed a robust predictive effect.

Conclusion

Our study reveals that LNM signature is a powerful biomarker for preoperative prediction of LNM in patients with HNSCC, which may be effective to realize individualized outcome prediction.
Subcontracting sterile pediatric and adult chemotherapy preparations activity: A global risk analysis
Authors: Rousseau Julia , Zribi Kaouther , Cotteret Camille , Marcais Ambroise , Winter Sarah , Salguero‐Hernandez Gabriel , Cisternino Salvatore , Schlatter Joël
Published: June 2022

Objective

The main purpose of this study was to carry out a global risk analysis (GRA) on the subcontracting circuit to determine and evaluate the risks linked to the future subcontracting process and to propose corrective actions for the most critical risks to ensure safety. This study must allow to conclude in an objective way to the feasibility or not of this project.

Methods

A GRA was performed, conducted by a multidisciplinary working group that met in 20 meetings, corresponding to about 50 h of work.

Results

We identified 92 scenarios: 13% of scenarios had an initial criticality C1, 40% C2, and 47% C3. The GRA shows that the riskiest scenarios concern the management, material, and equipment with IT system and logistics with transport. The working group identified 25 corrective actions. After implementing those actions, 85% of scenarios had residual criticality C1, 8.5% C2, and 6.5% had residual criticality C3. The working group chose that it was impossible to subcontract part of the activity.

Conclusion

The GRA conducted in this study highlighted the risks related to outsourcing this activity, evaluated and prioritized them, and recommended corrective actions. Therefore, we conclude that subcontracting the totality of sterile preparations would be harmful to patient care quality and reactivity for vital medical emergencies, such as macrophage activation syndrome, preparation of clinical trials, graft rejection therapies, preparation of very short stability chemotherapy, and the pediatric graft conditioning chemotherapy.
Deterioration of bladder compliance after botulinum toxin A injection and discontinuation of medication for overactive bladder
Authors: Wada Naoki , Ishikawa Mayumi , Nagabuchi Masaya , Makino Shogo , Miyauchi Kotona , Abe Noriyuki , Kakizaki Hidehiro
Published: June 2022

Introduction

We report a case of deterioration of bladder compliance after botulinum toxin type A injection and discontinuation of medication for overactive bladder.

Case presentation

A female patient with overactive bladder in her sixties had been visiting our outpatient clinic regularly for 4 years. She had received posterolateral spondylus fusion twice, which resulted in a compression fracture. She had been receiving a combination therapy of anticholinergics and β3‐adrenoceptor agonist for the management of overactive bladder. She received botulinum toxin type A injection for refractory overactive bladder and discontinued medical treatment for overactive bladder. Three months after botulinum toxin type A injection, cystometry revealed the deterioration of bladder compliance. Renal dysfunction, hydronephrosis, and vesicoureteral reflux were shown. Renal function and hydronephrosis were improved after restarting anticholinergics and β3‐adrenoceptor agonist therapy and inserting a temporary transurethral catheter.

Conclusion

Deterioration of bladder compliance may occur after botulinum toxin type A injection and discontinuation of overactive bladder medication in some patients with underlying neurological disease.
Assessing efficacy and safety of replacement fluids in therapeutic plasma exchange: A systematic scoping review of outcome measures used
Authors: Kohli Ruchika , Geneen Louise J. , Brunskill Susan J. , Doree Carolyn , Estcourt Lise , Chee Stephan E. J. , Al‐Bader Raya , Sin Wing Y. C. , MacCallum Peter , Green Laura
Published: June 2022

Objective

The aim of this systematic scoping review is to identify and categorize the outcome measures that have been reported in clinical studies, where therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been used as an intervention in any clinical settings, excluding thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).

Methods

We searched electronic databases using a predefined search strategy from inception to October 9, 2020. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data.

Results

We included 42 studies (37 RCTs and 5 prospective cohort studies) grouped into six main categories (neurology, immunology, renal, rheumatology, hematology, and dermatology). Primary outcomes were defined in eight studies (19%, 8/42) and were categorized as efficacy (five studies) or patient reported outcomes (three studies). A power calculation was reported in six studies (75%, 6/8): five neurology studies (mainly patient reported outcomes) and a single immunological study (efficacy outcome). Disease‐specific efficacy outcomes were dependent on the clinical setting of the population receiving TPE. Most of the trials (43%, 18/42) were undertaken in patients with neurology conditions where clear, disease‐specific, clinical outcome measures were used, including neurological disability scales (11/18, 61%), change in neurological examination (9/18, 50%), and functional improvement scores (7/18, 39%). For other conditions, the reporting of disease‐specific outcomes was poorly reported. Safety outcomes were mainly related to replacement fluid type rather than being disease‐specific. The most common outcome reported was hypotension (19%, 8/42), and this was primarily in patients exchanged with albumin.

Conclusion

Future clinical studies to determine which fluid replacement option is most efficacious and safe should use disease‐specific outcomes, as a trial in one therapeutic area may not necessarily translate to another therapeutic area. Patient reported outcomes are not universally reported for all disease areas. Safety measures focused primarily on fluid safety.
Divergent Golgi trafficking limits B cell-mediated IgG sialylation
Authors: Glendenning Leandre M , Zhou Julie Y , Reynero Kalob M , Cobb Brian A
Published: June 2022

The degree of α2,6-linked sialylation on IgG glycans is associated with a variety of inflammatory conditions and is thought to drive IgG anti-inflammatory activity. Previous findings revealed that ablation of β-galactoside α2,6-sialyltransferase 1 (ST6Gal1) in B cells failed to alter IgG sialylation in vivo, yet resulted in the loss of B cell surface α2,6 sialylation, suggesting divergent pathways for IgG and cell surface glycoprotein glycosylation and trafficking. Employing both B cell hybridomas and ex vivo murine B cells, we discovered that IgG was poorly sialylated by ST6Gal1 and highly core fucosylated by α1,6-fucosyltransferase 8 (Fut8) in cell culture. In contrast, cell surface glycoproteins on IgG-producing cells showed the opposite pattern by flow cytometry, with high α2,6 sialylation and low α1,6 fucosylation. Paired studies further revealed that ex vivo B cell-produced IgG carried significantly less sialylation compared with IgG isolated from the plasma of matched animals, providing evidence that IgG sialylation increases after release in vivo. Finally, confocal analyses demonstrated that IgG poorly localized to subcellular compartments rich in sialylation and ST6Gal1, and strongly to regions rich in fucosylation and Fut8. These findings support a model in which IgG subcellular trafficking diverges from the canonical secretory pathway by promoting Fut8-mediated core fucosylation and limiting exposure to and modification by ST6Gal1, providing a mechanism for why B cell-expressed ST6Gal1 is dispensable for IgG sialylation in vivo.
A novel approach in the treatment of osteoarthritis: In vitro and in vivo evaluation of Allium sativum microemulsion
Authors: Okur Mehmet Evren , Kolbaşı Bircan , Şahin Mustafa , Karadağ Ayşe Esra , Reis Rengin , Çağlar Emre Şefik , Kaplan Arife Ahsen , Sipahi Hande , Keskin İlknur , Demiralp Bahtiyar , Üstündağ Okur Neslihan
Published: June 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent kind of joint disease, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Allium sativum L. was used as a therapeutic agent in the microemulsion system against osteoarthritis due to allicin's high antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. HPLC was used to evaluate the chemical components of the Allium sativum methanol extract. Water‐in‐oil (w/o) type of microemulsions loaded with Allium sativum extract was produced. To create the microemulsions, a titration approach was employed. The microemulsions were prepared using isopropyl myristate (IPM) as oil, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan monolaurate 80 as surfactants, and Polyethylene glycol 400, ethanol as cosurfactants. The pH, droplet size, viscosity, polydispersity index values were measured to characterize of microemulsions. In addition, L929 healthy mouse fibroblasts and CHON‐001 healthy human cartilage fibroblast cells were tested for cytocompatibility in vitro. The therapeutic potential of Allium sativum microemulsion was investigated in rats that had osteoarthritis surgically simulated. HPLC analysis revealed a significant concentration of allicin in the extract. The titration approach was used to create an A. sativum microemulsion (AS) with a narrow droplet size and PDI range. In L929 and CHON‐001 cells, cytocompatibility experiments revealed that the maximum dosages of AS microemulsion 5% (v/v) exerted 93.41 ± 3.11% and 75.59 ±2.69% cell viabilities, respectively. Different concentrations of AS (1.25%, 2.5%, and 5% v/v) demonstrated cytoprotective efficacy against H2O2‐induced oxidative damage. When compared to the control group, in vivo investigations revealed fewer irregularities on the articular surface and typically arranged chondrocytes in the positive control and treated groups.
Weak isotopic fractionation of dissolved O2 during community respiration
Authors: Wurgaft Eyal , Musan Israela , Rivlin Tanya , Luz Boaz
Published: June 2022

The isotopic composition of dissolved O2 (δ18O) in aquatic environments is strongly affected by the preferential uptake of the lighter isotopologue during biological consumption processes. Numerous studies have shown that during incubation experiments, the isotopic effect of microorganism respiration (εorganism) is on the order of −20‰. However, studies of the co‐variations of O2 and δ18O in natural environments show considerably weaker in situ fractionation (εapp). A possible explanation for this discrepancy is that a significant fraction of the O2 consumption is diffusion‐limited. Although this is a generally accepted mechanism in sediments, it cannot explain the weak fractionations observed in mid‐ocean sites. Here, we analyze a time series of O2, δ18O, and auxiliary data from the northern Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea). Although an incubation experiment showed strong fractionation against the heavy isotopologue (εorganism = −24.5‰), the in situ εapp was only −14‰ in deep water isolated from the photic zone. We show that this result requires an additional O2 consumption mechanism with weak fractionation, rather than mixing, and suggest that this mechanism is diffusion‐limited respiration into aggregates of organic material. We estimate that this mechanism could be responsible for 30% of the O2 consumption in the Gulf and suggest that it may also constitute a major O2 consumption pathway in the world's oceans.
Innovation efficiency and firm performance in a benchmarking context
Authors: Kanellopoulos Vassilis , Tsekouras Kostas
Published: June 2022

This paper examines the effect of innovation efficiency on firm performance using the Greek version of the Community Innovation Survey (CIS) 2012–2014 and employs a dataset of 1,274 innovative manufacturing firms. Introducing a data envelopment analysis (DEA)‐type benchmarking strategy with non‐continuous knowledge inputs, the main findings suggest that innovation efficiency, although does not exert a direct impact on firm performance, moderates the relationship between the internally generated knowledge and firm performance. On the other hand, such a moderation relationship is not confirmed for the relationship between external knowledge and innovation spillovers on firm's performance. Although the impact of the embodied to innovation inputs spillovers, on firm performance, is always positive and significant, empirical results indicate that absorptive capacity exhibits diminishing returns with respect to performance.
Accelerated fatty acid composition MRI of epicardial adipose tissue: Development and application to eplerenone treatment in a mouse model of obesity‐induced coronary microvascular disease
Authors: Shah Soham A. , Echols John T. , Sun Changyu , Wolf Matthew J. , Epstein Frederick H.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To develop an accelerated MRI method to quantify the epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) fatty acid composition (FAC) and test the hypothesis that eplerenone (EPL) shifts the EAT FAC toward unsaturation in obese mice.

Methods

Undersampled multi‐echo gradient echo imaging employing a dictionary‐based compressed‐sensing reconstruction and iterative decomposition with echo asymmetry and least‐squares–based mapping (IDEAL) was developed, validated, and used to study EAT in obese mice scanned at 7T. Fully sampled and rate 2, 2.5, 3, and 3.5 undersampled image data were acquired, reconstructed, and assessed using RMSE and structural similarity (SSIM). Two groups of mice were studied: untreated (control, n = 10) and EPL‐treated (n = 10) mice fed a high‐fat high‐sucrose diet. MRI included imaging of EAT FAC, EAT volume, and myocardial perfusion reserve.

Results

Rate 3 acceleration provided RMSE <5% and structural similarity >0.85 for FAC MRI. After 6 weeks of diet, EPL‐treated compared to untreated mice had a reduced EAT saturated fatty acid fraction (0.27 ± 0.09 vs. 0.39 ± 0.07, P < 0.05) and increased EAT unsaturation degree (4.37 ± 0.32 vs. 3.69 ± 0.58, P < 0.05). Also, EAT volume in EPL‐treated compared to untreated mice was reduced (8.1 ± 0.6 mg vs. 11.4 ± 0.7 mg, P < 0.01), and myocardial perfusion reserve was improved (1.83 ± 0.15 vs. 1.61 ± 0.17, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Rate 3 accelerated FAC MRI enabled accurate quantification of EAT FAC in mice. EPL treatment shifted the EAT FAC toward increased unsaturation and was associated with improvement of coronary microvascular function.
The psychosocial experiences of human papillomavirus (HPV) positive oropharyngeal cancer patients following (chemo)radiotherapy: A systematic review and meta‐ethnography
Authors: Matthews Sara , Brett Jo , Ramluggun Pras , Watson Eila
Published: June 2022

Objective

The UK incidence of oropharyngeal cancer has risen sharply over the last 30 years with an increase in human papillomavirus (HPV) associated diagnoses, most prevalent in younger, working age populations. This meta‐ethnography explores the psychosocial needs of HPV+ve oropharyngeal cancer patients during early recovery following (chemo)radiotherapy.

Methods

Meta‐ethnography methods were used, based on the approach of Noblit and Hare. Systematic searches for relevant qualitative studies were conducted in five electronic databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Cochrane database) between 2010 and 2021, followed by citation searching.

Results

Twenty‐three papers exploring the psychosocial needs of HPV+ve oropharyngeal cancer patients after treatment were included. Findings were synthesised to develop five constructs: ‘gaps in continuity of support from healthcare professionals’ reflecting unmet needs; ‘changes to self‐identity’ revealing the comprehensive disruption of this disease and treatment; ‘unrealistic expectations of recovery’ highlighting the difficulty of preparing for the impact of treatment; ‘finding ways to cope’ describing the distinct complexity of this experience; and ‘adjusting to life after the end of treatment’ exploring how coping strategies helped patients to regain control of their lives.

Conclusions

Completing (chemo)radiotherapy signalled a transition from hospital‐based care to home‐based support, challenging patients to address the constructs identified. An unexpectedly difficult and complex recovery meant that despite a favourable prognosis, poor psychosocial well‐being may threaten a successful outcome. The provision of tailored support is essential to facilitate positive adjustment.
PcoB is a defense outer membrane protein that facilitates cellular uptake of copper
Authors: Li Ping , Nayeri Niloofar , Górecki Kamil , Becares Eva Ramos , Wang Kaituo , Mahato Dhani Ram , Andersson Magnus , Abeyrathna Sameera S. , Lindkvist‐Petersson Karin , Meloni Gabriele , Missel Julie Winkel , Gourdon Pontus
Published: June 2022

Copper (Cu) is one of the most abundant trace metals in all organisms, involved in a plethora of cellular processes. Yet elevated concentrations of the element are harmful, and interestingly prokaryotes are more sensitive for environmental Cu stress than humans. Various transport systems are present to maintain intracellular Cu homeostasis, including the prokaryotic plasmid‐encoded multiprotein pco operon, which is generally assigned as a defense mechanism against elevated Cu concentrations. Here we structurally and functionally characterize the outer membrane component of the Pco system, PcoB, recovering a 2.0 Å structure, revealing a classical β‐barrel architecture. Unexpectedly, we identify a large opening on the extracellular side, linked to a considerably electronegative funnel that becomes narrower towards the periplasm, defining an ion‐conducting pathway as also supported by metal binding quantification via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. However, the structure is partially obstructed towards the periplasmic side, and yet flux is permitted in the presence of a Cu gradient as shown by functional characterization in vitro. Complementary in vivo experiments demonstrate that isolated PcoB confers increased sensitivity towards Cu. Aggregated, our findings indicate that PcoB serves to permit Cu import. Thus, it is possible the Pco system physiologically accumulates Cu in the periplasm as a part of an unorthodox defense mechanism against metal stress. These results point to a previously unrecognized principle of maintaining Cu homeostasis and may as such also assist in the understanding and in efforts towards combatting bacterial infections of Pco‐harboring pathogens.
Oxidation of active cysteines mediates protein aggregation of S10R, the cataract‐associated mutant of mouse GammaB‐crystallin
Authors: Hou Wenjuan , Pande Ajay , Pande Jayanti
Published: June 2022

The Ser10 to Arg mutation in mouse γB‐crystallin (MGB) has been associated with protein aggregation, dense nuclear opacity, and the degeneration of fiber cells in the lens core. Overexpression of the gap junction protein, connexin 46 (Cx46), was found to suppress the nuclear opacity and restore normal cell–cell contact. However, the molecular basis for the protein aggregation and related downstream effects were not evident from these studies. Here, we provide a comparison of the structures and solution properties of wild type MGB and the S10R mutant in vitro and show that, even though the mutation does not directly involve cysteine residues, some cysteines in the mutant protein are activated, leading to the enhanced formation of intermolecular disulfide‐crosslinked protein aggregates relative to the wild‐type. This occurs even as the protein structure is essentially unaltered. Thus, the primary event is enhanced protein aggregation due to the disulfide crosslinking of the mutant protein. We suggest that these aggregates eventually get deposited on fiber cell membranes. Since the gap junction protein, Cx46 is involved in the transport of reduced glutathione, we posit that these deposits interfere in Cx46‐mediated glutathione transport and facilitate the oxidative stress‐mediated downstream changes. Overexpression of Cx46 suppresses such oxidative aggregation. These studies provide a plausible explanation for the protein aggregation and other changes that accompany this mutation. If indeed cysteine oxidation is the primary event for protein aggregation also in vivo, then the S10R mutant mouse, which is currently available, could serve as a viable animal model for human age‐onset cataract.
Accident analysis based on systems thinking approach: Case study of “6·13” tank truck explosion in Wenling, China
Authors: Yang Peng , Zhang Lijing , Tao Gang
Published: June 2022

The problem China is currently facing is why accidents related to the road transportation of hazardous chemicals, with the same or similar causes, keep happening and why we do not seem able to learn from these events. Systems thinking is a discipline of seeing systems holistically, and it creates a clearer picture of the dynamic, systematic structures that have contributed to the occurrence of a major incident. The “6·13” tank truck explosion accident is considered to be the most serious accident in the development of the Chinese road transportation system of hazardous chemicals in the past 5 years. From the accident investigation report, the system elements were identified, and a causal loop diagram was developed based on the systems thinking archetype of “shifting the burden.” In this paper, we focused on two problem symptoms: “defective construction of anti‐collision guardrails” and the “unsafe behavior of speeding.” The causal loop diagram not only illustrated symptomatic solutions to the problem symptoms in the accident report, but also identified fundamental solutions. Most importantly, this research revealed how an underlying systemic structure ultimately resulted in a major accident. This knowledge is useful for developing prevention policies and industrial strategies and benefits the safety and sustainability of China's chemical industries.
Contribution of machine learning to tumor growth inhibition modeling for hepatocellular carcinoma patients under Roblitinib (FGF401) drug treatment
Authors: Wilbaux Mélanie , Demanse David , Gu Yi , Jullion Astrid , Myers Andrea , Katsanou Vasiliki , Meille Christophe
Published: June 2022

Machine learning (ML) opens new perspectives in identifying predictive factors of efficacy among a large number of patients’ characteristics in oncology studies. The objective of this work was to combine ML with population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) modeling of tumor growth inhibition to understand the sources of variability between patients and therefore improve model predictions to support drug development decisions. Data from 127 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma enrolled in a phase I/II study evaluating once‐daily oral doses of the fibroblast growth factor receptor FGFR4 kinase inhibitor, Roblitinib (FGF401), were used. Roblitinib  PKs was best described by a two‐compartment model with a delayed zero‐order absorption and linear elimination. Clinical efficacy using the longitudinal sum of the longest lesion diameter data was described with a population PK/PD model of tumor growth inhibition including resistance to treatment. ML, applying elastic net modeling of time to progression data, was associated with cross‐validation, and allowed to derive a composite predictive risk score from a set of 75 patients’ baseline characteristics. The two approaches were combined by testing the inclusion of the continuous risk score as a covariate on PD model parameters. The score was found as a significant covariate on the resistance parameter and resulted in 19% reduction of its variability, and 32% variability reduction on the average dose for stasis. The final PK/PD model was used to simulate effect of patients’ characteristics on tumor growth inhibition profiles. The proposed methodology can be used to support drug development decisions, especially when large interpatient variability is observed.
Dielectric Relaxation and Ferroelectric Properties of PNN–PZT Ceramics with Different Ni/Nb Ratios
Authors: Shi Ying , Zeng Jiangtao , Zheng Liaoying , Li Guorong
Published: June 2022

0.35Pb(NixNb1−x)O3–0.65Pb(Zr0.39Ti0.61)O3 (x = 1/4,1/3,1/2 and 2/3) ceramics are prepared by the conventional solid reaction method and their structure, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties are studied. All compositions show tetragonal perovskite structure and Ni2+ segregated at grain boundaries in ceramics with high Ni/Nb (x = 1/2,2/3). Oxygen vacancies exist in nonstoichiometric ceramics and increase with the increase in Ni/Nb. Due to the pinning effect of defects, the P–E loops become unsaturated, accompanied by a softening–hardening transition. Dielectric relaxation is detected in both PNN–PZT(x = 1/2) and PNN–PZT(x = 2/3), and the activation energies of relaxation and conduction are calculated by Arrhenius law. The results show that both grain and grain boundary contribute to dielectric relaxation which can be explained on the basis of equivalent circuit containing two parallel RC elements connected in series. The relaxation at low frequency is induced by dipoles concentrating on the grain boundary while the relaxation at high frequency is attributed to the first ionization of oxygen vacancies in the grain.
Improving the Electrical Properties and Hole Extraction Efficiency of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells with AuCl3 Interfacial Modification Layer
Authors: Wu Xianhu , Tang Xiangyu , Dong Xuting , Jiang Zezhuan , Liu Nian , Bao Jingwen , Cui Guanglei , Zhao Chunyi , Kong Lingbing , Gu Min
Published: June 2022

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has been widely used in inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) due to its simple preparation process and high stability. However, because of its low conductivity and charge transfer ability, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of inverted device is poor. To solve this problem, AuCl3 is introduced to modify the interface between the hole transport layer (PEDOT:PSS) and electrode (ITO). The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy  (XPS) spectra of PEDOT:PSS confirms that the PSS chains are reduced and the conductivity are increased after AuCl3 doping. Moreover, AuCl3‐modified PEDOT:PSS is beneficial to guide crystal growth and to improve the grain size, crystallinity, and water contact angle of perovskite films. Meanwhile, the defects of PEDOT:PSS/perovskite interface are effectively passivated, which suppresses the nonradiative recombination. The hole extraction efficiency is improved from 8.88× to 1.31× s−1. As a result, the short‐current density (Jsc) and fill factor (FF) are improved, which leads to a champion device with PCE up to 18.08%, much higher than 16.03% of pristine one. The unencapsulated device remains 80% of the initial efficiency after 4 weeks under 45 ± 5% humidity. The results provide a new strategy for synergistically enhancing the efficiency and stability of PSCs by interfacial modification and doping.
Water Model Experiments on the Influence of Phase Distribution in the Submerged Entry Nozzle Considering Varying Operating Conditions
Authors: Thumfart Maria , Hackl Gernot , Fellner Wolfgang
Published: June 2022

Continuous casting of steel argon injection into the submerged entry nozzle (SEN) via the stopper is common practice. Nonetheless, the resulting phase distribution in the SEN is still under discussion. The main available casting parameters at the steel plant to determine the flow situation in the SEN are usually the stopper rod position, the argon feeding pressure, the argon flow rate, and the casting speed. To show the potential influence of the phase distribution on the stopper characteristic and on the argon feeding pressure, experiments using a 1:3 scale water model are presented. For the experiment, the water flow rate is scaled using Froude similarity, while the air flow rate is chosen to keep the ratio between the liquid and gas volume flow rate constant. The casting parameters and the pressure at three distinct levels of the SEN are measured. To relate this measurement data to the corresponding phase distribution, two cameras are used to document the phase distribution in the SEN. The images show four major phase distribution patterns. These patterns can be linked to significant changes in the measured pressure levels and the behavior of the stopper.
Modification Mechanism of Lanthanum on Alumina Inclusions in a Nonoriented Electrical Steel
Authors: Ren Qiang , Hu Zhiyuan , Cheng Lin , Kang Xiaomin , Cheng Yujie , Zhang Lifeng
Published: June 2022

The modification mechanism of lanthanum on alumina inclusions in a nonoriented electrical steel at 1600 °C is investigated using laboratory experiments. Inclusions are analyzed using an automatic scanning electron microscope equipped with energy‐dispersive spectrum at 1, 5, 10, and 30 min after lanthanum treatment. The contents of total oxygen (TO), total sulfur (TS), and total lanthanum (TLa) in steel are analyzed. Results show that Al2O3 inclusions are modified by lanthanum in two ways. One is that the dissolved lanthanum directly reduces the aluminum in Al2O3 inclusions and forms LaAl11O18 or LaAlO3 ones. The other is that a new La2O2S or LaS
x
shell is preferentially generated at the outside of Al2O3 and forms multiphase inclusions. With time increasing, the La2O2S or LaS
x
shell gradually reacts with the Al2O3 core and generates stable lanthanum‐containing inclusions. At the initial stage of lanthanum treatment, many transient inclusions including LaS
x
, La2O2S, and La–P(–As) are formed due to the high concentration of lanthanum, while gradually redissolving with time increasing. With the increase in TLa content in steel, the formation sequence of stable inclusions is Al2O3 → LaAl11O18 → LaAlO3 → La2O2S → LaS
x
, which is consistent with thermodynamic analysis.
Research on short‐term output power forecast model of wind farm based on neural network combination algorithm
Authors: Qu Boyang , Xing Zuoxia , Liu Yang , Chen Lei
Published: June 2022

Reliable wind farm short‐term output power prediction plays a crucial role in the safety and economy of power system operation. By embedding multiple neural network methods, such as long short‐term memory (LSTM) neural network, multiple optimized BP neural network and wavelet neural network (WNN), combined with multiple methods based on signal decomposition and reconstruction to evaluate the short‐term prediction effect. In this study, the variational modal decomposition (VMD) method and the complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) are used to reduce the fluctuation of the original wind power signal. Besides, the intrinsic mode function (IMF) signals obtained by VMD and CEEMDAN methods are used. By predicting the IMF signals, the prediction error of each signal can be reduced, and the accuracy of wind power prediction can be indirectly improved. In order to test the validity of the proposed composite model, the validation prediction and rolling prediction of 72 h with a resolution of 10 min were carried out, respectively, using the data of Caijiagou wind farm in 2018. Through experiments, the relationship between the two predictions is analyzed, which provides an important reference for the selection of the prediction model. Corresponding results show that the proposed VMD‐LSTM and CEEMDAN‐LSTM methods significantly outperform other benchmark methods and provide very satisfactory results in both the accuracy and stability of wind farm power prediction.
Social Networks and Health Inequalities: A New Perspective for Research
Authors: Klärner Andreas , Gamper Markus , Keim-Klärner Sylvia , von der Lippe Holger , Moor Irene , Richter Matthias , Vonneilich Nico
Published: June 2022

“Tell me how much your friends earn and I’ll tell you whether you smoke, what diseases you have and how old you’re going to become!” Part of this statement should be familiar to those who are interested in the connection between social inequality and health. People of comparatively lower socioeconomic status are at higher risk of health problems and are more likely to fall ill and die earlier than those who have a higher income etc. However, the sentence does not ask about your own income, but about the income of your friends. Is this information really meaningful? Does it really make a difference to your own health which friends you have, who you surround yourself with in your everyday life and what social position these people have?
Social Network Mechanisms
Authors: Klärner Andreas , von der Lippe Holger
Published: June 2022

The influence and significance of social networks in health research are becoming widely discussed. Sociological network research meets the demand for a stronger consideration of “contexts” or the “environment” that influences health and care. Social networks are conceived as a mediating meso-level, which mediates between social macro-structures (e.g., healthcare systems, institutions, and organizations) and individual (not always) rationally acting actors. This perspective offers the possibility to analyze avariety of psychosocial mechanisms.These mechanisms can influence individual health in different ways, including (health) behavior, psyche, or physiology. In this chapter we present some central theoretical concepts, as well as empirical results, on network effects under the headings of “social support,” “social integration,” “social influence,” and “social contagion.”
Negative Ties and Inequalities in Health
Authors: Adebahr Philip
Published: June 2022

Negative ties are essential components of social networks. The central task of the present chapter is to elicit the state of research on the contribution of negative ties to the reproduction of health inequalities. In the first step, we elaborate on commonalities and differences regarding the understanding of negative ties. Subsequently, we take a look at the relationship between negative ties and some health parameters in the field of physical and mental health as well as health behaviours. Furthermore, we explore the thesis that socioeconomic status and negative ties are related to one another. We conclude with an outlook where we address the main desiderata for research on negative ties and inequalities in health.
Stress Prediction Using Per-Activity Biometric Data to Improve QoL in the Elderly
Authors: Matsumoto Kanta , Matsui Tomokazu , Suwa Hirohiko , Yasumoto Keiichi
Published: June 2022

To improve the QoL of the elderly, it is essential to predict their stress states. In general, the stress state varies from day to day or time to time depending on what activities are performed and how long/strong. However, most existing studies predict the stress state using biometric data and specific activities (e.g., sleep time, exercise time and amount) as explanatory variables, but do not consider all daily living activities. Therefore, it is necessary to predict the stress state by linking various daily living activities and biometric information. In this paper, we propose a method to improve the prediction accuracy of stress estimation by linking daily living activities data and biometric data. Specifically, we construct a machine learning model in which the objective variable is the result of a stress status questionnaire obtained every morning and evening, and the explanatory variables are the types of daily living activities performed in the 24 h prior to the questionnaire and the feature values calculated from the biometric data during each of the performed activities. The results of the evaluation experiments using the one month data collected from five elderly households, show that the proposed method (using per-activity biometric features) improves the prediction accuracy by more than 10% from the baseline methods (with biometric features without considering activities).
Smart Home-Based Home Modification Program for Persons with Disabilities: A Pilot Study
Authors: Moon KwangTae , Lee YunHwan , Kim Dongwan , Kim Jongbae
Published: June 2022

Smart Home Technology (SHT) as assistive technology (AT) is becoming an important active research field in the field of rehabilitation. For this purpose, Home Modification (HM) is one of the most common ways to improve the quality of life of the Persons with physical disabilities (PwPD). In this context, we propose a new Smart Home-based Home Modification Program (SHbHM) to improve the quality of life for PwPD. Our method simply uses Bluetooth or extends to Wi-Fi and Zigbee networks. A pilot study was conducted with five PwPD at home to investigate the effectiveness of the program. The reported results show a high quality of life, and the occupational performance and satisfaction are greatly improved, indicating that it is an efficient alternative.
Understanding the Knowledge, Perception and Uptake of Contraception in Nigeria: A Case Study of Saye-Zaria
Authors: Oyegoke Ayandunmola Folake , Abubakar Aisha
Published: June 2022

An integral part in the comprehensive care of HIV and a significant health service is contraception, however research carried out to evaluate the perception and utilization of contraception among HIV positive men are few. This research aim to determine the knowledge, perception and uptake of contraception among HIV positive male patients at Saye-Zaria. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study with collection of quantitative data through questionnaire and qualitative data with Focused group discussion (FGD). The majority (85.1%) of respondents have heard about contraception, most had good perception, and only 61.9% of the respondents have ever used contraception. There was a significant association between level of education and perception. In conclusion there was high knowledge, low usage and poor acceptance of contraception. Therefore, the government should put adequate policies in place to encourage male involvement in the utilization of contraception.
Alter Wein in neuen Schläuchen? Zu Techniken und Funktionen der Filmmusik von Ramin Djawadi in Game of Thrones
Authors: Fink Monika
Published: June 2022

Es besteht wohl kein Zweifel, dass die Filmmusik des Komponisten Ramin Djawadi am weltweiten Erfolg der Serie Game of Thrones einen erheblichen Anteil hat. Djawadi gelang es, eine ideal auf die vielschichtige Phantasiewelt der Serie abgestimmte Klangwelt zu kreieren, die die zahlreichen Unwägbarkeiten und überraschenden Wendungen der Handlungsfolgen musikalisch reflektiert. Seine epische, stark emotionale und vor allem unglaublich bildhafte Tonsprache zeichnet sich, neben allen innovativen Aspekten im Sound Design, durch einen Rückgriff auf Kompositionstechniken aus, deren Ursprünge weit in die Musikgeschichte zurückreichen. In dem Beitrag werden die wesentlichen Techniken der Filmmusik, wie das Underscoring, die Mood-Technik und vor allem die subtile Leitmotivtechnik betrachtet, die sich durch sämtliche Staffeln hindurchzieht und mit deren Hilfe der hochkomplexen Handlung eine Einheit und ein innerer Zusammenhalt gewährt wird. Insbesondere eingegangen wird auf die Titelmusik sowie auf die Szene Light of the Seven, die zur ersten Szene des Finales der sechsten Staffel The Winds of Winter erklingt und die auch ein deutliches Beispiel dafür ist, wie die Wahrnehmung der Zuschauer mithilfe der Musik geleitet werden kann.
Inhibition of myostatin and related signaling pathways for the treatment of muscle atrophy in motor neuron diseases
Authors: Abati Elena , Manini Arianna , Comi Giacomo Pietro , Corti Stefania
Published: June 2022

Myostatin is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth secreted by skeletal myocytes. In the past years, myostatin inhibition sparked interest among the scientific community for its potential to enhance muscle growth and to reduce, or even prevent, muscle atrophy. These characteristics make it a promising target for the treatment of muscle atrophy in motor neuron diseases, namely, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which are rare neurological diseases, whereby the degeneration of motor neurons leads to progressive muscle loss and paralysis. These diseases carry a huge burden of morbidity and mortality but, despite this unfavorable scenario, several therapeutic advancements have been made in the past years. Indeed, a number of different curative therapies for SMA have been approved, leading to a revolution in the life expectancy and outcomes of SMA patients. Similarly, tofersen, an antisense oligonucleotide, is now undergoing clinical trial phase for use in ALS patients carrying the SOD1 mutation. However, these therapies are not able to completely halt or reverse progression of muscle damage. Recently, a trial evaluating apitegromab, a myostatin inhibitor, in SMA patients was started, following positive results from preclinical studies. In this context, myostatin inhibition could represent a useful strategy to tackle motor symptoms in these patients. The aim of this review is to describe the myostatin pathway and its role in motor neuron diseases, and to summarize and critically discuss preclinical and clinical studies of myostatin inhibitors in SMA and ALS. Then, we will highlight promises and pitfalls related to the use of myostatin inhibitors in the human setting, to aid the scientific community in the development of future clinical trials.
Investigating a psychological model of mental conditions and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic driven by participatory methods
Authors: Simblett S. K. , Jilka S. , Vitoratou S. , Hayes C. , Morris D. , Wilson E. , Odoi C. , Mutepua M. , Evans J. , Negbenose E. , Jansli S. M. , Hudson G. , Adanijo A. , Dawe-Lane E. , Pinfold V. , Wykes T.
Published: June 2022

Background

There is evidence of increased mental health problems during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to identify the factors that put certain groups of people at greater risk of mental health problems.

Methods

We took a participatory approach, involving people with lived experience of mental health problems and/or carers, to generate a set of risk factors and potential moderators of the effects of COVID on mental health. An online cross-sectional survey was completed by 1464 United Kingdom residents between 24th April and 27th June 2020. The survey had questions on whether respondents were existing mental health service users and or carers, level of depression (PHQ9) and anxiety (GAD7), demographics, threat and coping appraisals, perceived resilience (BRS), and specific coping behaviours (validated as part of this study). The relationship between responses and coping strategies was measured using tetrachoric correlations. Structural equation modelling was used to test the model.

Results

A model significantly fit our data (rel χ2 = 2.05, RMSEA = 0.029 95%, CI (0.016, 0.042), CFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.98, SRMR = 0.014). Age and coping appraisal predicted anxiety and depression. Whereas, threat appraisal and ethnicity only predicted anxiety, and resilience only predicted depression. Additionally, specific coping behaviours predicted anxiety and depression, with overlap on distraction.

Conclusions

Some, but not all, risk factors significantly predict anxiety and depression. While there is a relationship between anxiety and depression, different factors may put people at greater risk of one or the other during the pandemic.
Concomitant spontaneous spinal and posterior fossa subdural hematoma in an 11-year-old child with aplastic anemia: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Abou-Madawi Ali M. , Elkazaz Mohamed K. , Abdelhamid Alaa El-Din Saad
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The current article describes an 11-year-old male who has aplastic anemia with an extremely rare condition, that is, concomitant posterior fossa SDH and spinal SDH.

Methods

This is a case report and review of literature.

Case presentation

This case presents an 11-year-old male known to have aplastic anemia complained of neck and back pain, headache, and persistent vomiting for 3 days. He had no history of head or spine trauma at all. His parents are relatives “positive consanguinity,” and his sister suffers from aplastic anemia. Clinical examination revealed severe pallor at the time of presentation, with no neurologic or locomotor deficit and positive Kernig’s sign.

Conclusion

Patients with aplastic anemia or any bleeding disorder conditions should be investigated thoroughly if symptoms denoted a CNS pathology. Concomitant cranial and spinal SDH rarely occurs, and more studies are advocated to be structured to investigate the specific pathophysiology and etiologies of this condition.
A new method of preoperative assessment of correct electrode array alignment based on post-operative measurements in a cochlear implanted cohort
Authors: Horvath Bence , Perenyi Adam , Molnar Fiona Anna , Nagy Roland , Csanady Miklos , Kiss Jozsef Geza , Rovo Laszlo
Published: June 2022

Purpose

During cochlear implantation surgery, a range of complications may occur such as tip fold-over. We recently developed a method to estimate the insertion orientation of the electrode array. The aim of the study was to determine the optimal angle of orientation in a cohort of cochlear implanted patients.

Methods

On eighty-five CT scans (80 uncomplicated insertions and 5 cases with tip fold-over), location of the electrode array’s Insertion Guide (IG), Orientation marker (OM) and two easily identifiable landmarks (the round window (RW) and the incus short process (ISP)) were manually marked. The angle enclosed by ISP-RW line and the Cochlear™ Slim Modiolar electrode array’s OM line determined the electrode array insertion angle.

Results

The average insertion angle was 45.0–47.2° ± 10.4–12° SD and was validated with 98% confidence interval. Based on the measurements obtained, patients’ sex and age had no impact on the size of this angle. Although the angles of the tip fold-over cases (44.9°, 46.9°, 34.2°, 54.3°, 55.9°) fell within this average range, the further it diverted from the average it increased the likelihood for tip fold-over.

Conclusion

Electrode array insertion in the individually calculated angle relative to the visible incus short process provides a useful guide for the surgeon when aiming for the optimal angle, and potentially enhances good surgical outcomes. Our results show that factors other than the orientation angle may additionally contribute to failures in implantation when the Slim Modiolar electrode is used.