bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated farming system approaches to achieve food and nutritional security for enhancing profitability, employment, and climate resilience in India
Authors: Paramesh Venkatesh , Ravisankar Natesan , Behera UmaKant , Arunachalam Vadivel , Kumar Parveen , Solomon Rajkumar Racharla , Dhar Misra Shiva , Mohan Kumar Revappa , Prusty A. K. , Jacob D. , Panwar A. S. , Mayenkar Trivesh , Reddy Viswanatha K. , Rajkumar Susitha
Published: March 2022

Integrated farming systems (IFS) entail a holistic approach to farming aimed at meeting the multiple demands (impart farm resilience, farmer livelihoods, food security, ecosystem services, and making farms adaptive and resilient, etc.). IFS are characterized by temporal and spatial mixing of crops, livestock, fishery, and allied activities in a single farm. It is hypothesized that these complex farms are more productive at a system level, are less vulnerable to volatility, and produce less negative externalities than simplified farms. Thereby, they cater the needs of small and marginal farmers, who are the backbone of agriculture in India. Our review of literature shows that IFS have the potential to improve farm profitability (265%) and employment (143%) compared to single enterprise farms. The literature showed that IFS enhance nutrient recycling through composting, mulching, and residue incorporation and, as a consequence, have the capacity to reduce the external purchase of inputs. The nutrient recycling in turn helps to increase the soil quality indicators such as soil nutrient availability and also improves soil microbial activity. The IFS play a major role in biodiversity conservation through adoption of diversified cropping system and through integration of indigenous livestock breeds. IFS also played important role in improving soil organic carbon from 0.75 to 0.82%. Due to increased carbon sequestration, biomass production by trees, reduced consumption of fertilizers, and pesticides the greenhouse gas emission could be reduced significantly. This results in a linked system making it sustainable and climate‐resilient. The main challenge associated with adoption of IFS is it requires skill, knowledge, resources, labor, and capital which are not always available with small and marginal farmers. There is a need for integrating productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability variables in a single evaluation framework to effectively generate information toward enhancing adaptability of IFS.
Coexistent physical and cognitive decline and the development of fear of falling among Korean older adults
Authors: Park Gum‐Ryeong , Kim Jinho
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Although hand grip strength and cognitive function are associated with fear of falling (FOF), little is known about whether coexisting physical and cognitive decline is jointly related to FOF. This study examines whether grip strength and cognitive function interact to shape FOF and FOF‐related activity restriction (FAR) among Korean older adults.

Methods/Design

This study used seven waves of the Korean Longitudinal Study of Ageing (N = 3373 older adults aged 65 or over). Grip strength was assessed by a handgrip dynamometer, and cognitive function by Korean Mini‐mental State Examination (K‐MMSE). Fixed effects models were estimated to account for time‐invariant confounders such as genetic predispositions, innate ability, and health endowments. This study estimated a joint model that included interaction effects between grip strength and cognitive function.

Results

Declines in grip strength and cognitive function were independently associated with FOF. Fixed effects estimates suggested that, despite some attenuation, controlling for individual heterogeneity does not confound the associations. The interaction model showed that coexistence of low grip strength and cognitive decline leads to a greater risk of FOF and FAR than having a single condition. Similar patterns were found for FAR.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that coexistent cognitive and physical decline are a significant risk factor for FOF and FAR. Given the well‐established adverse effects of FOF on older adults' health and well‐being, results of this study lend support to interventions to target old adults with coexistent cognitive and physical decline to remove excessive concerns about FOF.
Does losing money truly hurt? The shared neural bases of monetary loss and pain
Authors: Tan Huixin , Duan Qin , Liu Yihan , Qiao Xinyu , Luo Siyang
Published: March 2022

Both monetary loss and pain have been studied for decades, but evidence supporting the relationship between them is still lacking. We conducted a meta‐analysis to explore the overlapping brain regions between monetary loss and pain, including physical pain and social pain. Regardless of the type of pain experienced, activation of the anterior insula was a shared neural representation of monetary loss and pain. The network representation pattern of monetary loss was more similar to that of social pain than that of physical pain. In conclusion, our research provided evidence of the common neural correlates of monetary loss and pain.
Normative data for three physical frailty parameters in an aging, rural Indian population
Authors: Sundarakumar Jonas S. , Raviteja Karru V. , Muniz‐Terrera Graciela , Ravindranath Vijayalakshmi
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Physical frailty is associated with multiple adverse health outcomes. Since physical characteristics markedly vary with different populations, population‐specific norms for physical frailty parameters are necessary. Such norms are lacking for the Indian population, especially for older, rural Indians. We aimed to develop normative values for three quantitative, frailty parameters—handgrip strength, “Timed Up‐and‐Go” (TUG) test time, and physical activity in an aging, rural Indian population.

Methods

The study sample is from an ongoing, prospective, cohort (Srinivaspura NeuoSenescence and COGnition, SANSCOG) comprised of rural, community‐dwelling, cognitively healthy, aging Indians. Subjects are recruited through area sampling strategy, from villages of Srinivaspura, Kolar district, Karnataka state, India. Three physical frailty parameters of Fried's phenotype—handgrip strength (n = 1787), TUG time (n = 1863), and physical activity (n = 1640) were assessed using digital hand dynamometry, TUG test, and General Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), respectively.

Results

The 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th percentiles for the three frailty parameters were: right‐hand grip strength (kg): males—13.9, 18.6, 23.8, 28.7, 33.7 and females—7.8, 10.6, 14.2, 17.9, 21.3; left‐hand grip strength (kg): males—13.3, 18.3, 23.6, 28.9, 32.9 and females—7.9, 10.5, 14.3, 17.8, 21.2; TUG time (s): males—9.1, 10.1, 11.4, 13.4, 15.5 and females—9.5, 10.7, 12.4, 14.5, 16.6; physical activity (MET‐minutes/week): males—1680; 4320; 8880; 15,840; 23,352 and females—1680; 4320; 9240; 15,120; 20,160.

Discussion

Our findings show that from 45 years onwards, overall grip strength decreases and TUG time increases, with women performing significantly poorer than men across all age groups, except >75 years, where no differences were seen. Physical activity did not show any consistent trend according to age or gender. Reference values for this aging, rural Indian population were substantially lower for grip strength and higher for TUG time than aging populations in several Western and other Asian countries.
Kinetics of immune responses to the AZD1222/Covishield vaccine with varying dose intervals in Sri Lankan individuals
Authors: Jeewandara Chandima , Aberathna Inoka Sepali , Gomes Laksiri , Pushpakumara Pradeep Darshana , Danasekara Saubhagya , Guruge Dinuka , Ranasinghe Thushali , Gunasekera Banuri , Kamaladasa Achala , Kuruppu Heshan , Somathilake Gayasha , Dissanayake Osanda , Gamalath Nayanathara , Ekanayake Dinithi , Jayamali Jeewantha , Jayathilaka Deshni , Mudunkotuwa Anushika , Harvie Michael , Nimasha Thashmi , Wijayamuni Ruwan , Schimanski Lisa , Rijal Pramila , Tan Tiong K. , Dong Tao , Townsend Alain , Ogg Graham S. , Malavige Gathsaurie Neelika
Published: March 2022

Background

To understand the kinetics of immune responses with different dosing gaps of the AZD1222 vaccine, we compared antibody and T cell responses in two cohorts with two different dosing gaps.

Methods

Antibodies to the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus were assessed in 297 individuals with a dosing gap of 12 weeks, sampled 12 weeks post second dose (cohort 1) and in 77 individuals with a median dosing gap of 21.4 weeks (cohort 2) sampled 6 weeks post second dose. ACE2‐blocking antibodies (ACE2‐blocking Abs), antibodies to the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of  variants of concern (VOC), and ex vivo T cell responses were assessed in a subcohort.

Results

All individuals (100%) had SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific total antibodies and 94.2% of cohort 1 and 97.1% of cohort 2 had ACE2‐blocking Abs. There was no difference in antibody titers or positivity rates in different age groups in both cohorts. The ACE2‐blocking Abs (p < .0001) and antibodies to the RBD of the VOCs were significantly higher in cohort 2 compared to cohort 1. 41.2% to 65.8% of different age groups gave a positive response by the hemagglutination assay to the RBD of the ancestral virus and VOCs in cohort 1, while 53.6%–90% gave a positive response in cohort 2. 17/57 (29.8%) of cohort 1 and 17/29 (58.6%) of cohort 2 had ex vivo interferon (IFN)γ ELISpot responses above the positive threshold. The ACE2‐blocking antibodies (Spearman's r = .46, p = .008) and ex vivo IFNγ responses (Spearman's r = .71, p < .0001) at 12 weeks post first dose, significantly correlated with levels 12 weeks post second dose.

Conclusions

Both dosing schedules resulted in high antibody and T cell responses post vaccination, although those with a longer dosing gap had a higher magnitude of responses, possibly as immune responses were measured 6 weeks post second dose compared to 12 weeks post second dose.
Constructing block designs with a prescribed automorphism group using genetic algorithm
Authors: Crnković Dean , Zrinski Tin
Published: March 2022

We propose a method of constructing block designs which combine genetic algorithm and a method for constructing designs with a prescribed automorphism group using tactical decompositions (i.e., orbit matrices). We apply this method to construct new Steiner systems with parameters and new symmetric designs with parameters (71, 15, 3).
Profiles of mindfulness in cancer patients and associations with psychological outcomes and coping strategies: A person‐centered approach
Authors: Wang Jun , Wei Liuyu , Zhu Lei , Schroevers Maya J.
Published: March 2022

Objective

Previous research confirmed the benefits of mindfulness for cancer patients' psychological well‐being, but few studies considered the value of possible distinct combinations of mindfulness skills. This study aimed to (1) identify distinct mindfulness profiles in cancer patients, (2) examine socio‐demographic predictors of patients with distinct profiles, and (3) examine associations of mindfulness profiles with psychological outcomes and coping strategies.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 245 people with heterogeneous types of cancer. Latent profile analysis was applied to identify distinct profiles of mindfulness. The Bolck–Croon–Hagenaars method was used to examine how mindfulness profiles related to socio‐demographic characteristics, psychological outcomes, and coping strategies.

Results

Four mindfulness profiles were identified: “average mindfulness” (50%), “judgmentally observing” (20%), “high mindfulness” (15%), and “non‐judgmentally aware” (15%). Patients with “high mindfulness” profile tended to have higher educational attainment, and reported better psychological outcomes (i.e., low on depression and negative affect and high on positive affect) as well as better coping strategies (i.e., high positive reappraisal and low rumination).

Conclusion

This study confirms the existence of distinct mindfulness profiles in cancer patients and suggest that patients high in mindfulness are the most adaptive.
Endothelial cell‐derived fibroblast growth factor‐18 regulates ovarian function in sheep
Authors: Estienne Anthony , Relav Lauriane , Benkoura Morad , Monniaux Danielle , Morin Fanny , Fabre Stéphane , Price Christopher A
Published: March 2022

Increasing the efficiency of farm animal reproduction is necessary to reduce the environmental impact of food production systems. One approach is to increase the number of healthy eggs (oocytes) produced per female for fertilization, thus it is important to understand factors that decrease oocyte health. One paracrine factor that decreases ovarian follicle growth is fibroblast growth factor 18 (FGF18) secreted by cells in the theca layer of the ovarian follicle, however the factors that regulate FGF18 secretion are unknown. In this study we hypothesized that FGF18 secretion is controled by intrafollicular factors and is linked to fertility, which we tested by using cell culture and sheep genetic models in vivo. Separation of theca cell populations revealed that FGF18 messenger RNA (mRNA) is located mainly in thecal endothelial rather than endocrine cells, and immunohistochemistry localized FGF18 protein to microvessels in the theca layer in situ. Culture of ovine theca‐derived endothelial cells was used to demonstrate stimulation of FGF18 mRNA and protein abundance by bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), a growth factor derived from theca endocrine cells. Taking advantage of a sheep genetic model, we demonstrate reduced ovarian and peripheral FGF18 concentrations in the hyperprolific Booroola ewe harboring the FecBB mutation in BMPR1B. These data suggest a novel control of fertility by follicular endothelial cells, in which theca endocrine cells secrete BMP4 that stimulates the secretion of FGF18 from thecal endothelial cells, which in turn diffuses into the granulosa cell layer and promotes apoptosis.
Pectoralis major muscle atrophy is associated with mitochondrial energy wasting in cachectic patients with gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Dolly Adeline , Lecomte Thierry , Tabchouri Nicolas , Caulet Morgane , Michot Nicolas , Anon Benjamin , Chautard Romain , Desvignes Yoann , Ouaissi Mehdi , Fromont‐Hankard Gaëlle , Dumas Jean‐François , Servais Stéphane
Published: March 2022

Background

Cancer cachexia is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by involuntary and pathological weight loss, mainly due to skeletal muscle wasting, resulting in a decrease in patients' quality of life, response to cancer treatments, and survival. Our objective was to investigate skeletal muscle alterations in cachectic cancer patients.

Methods

This is a prospective study of patients managed for pancreatic or colorectal cancer with an indication for systemic chemotherapy (METERMUCADIG ‐ NCT02573974). One lumbar CT image was used to determine body composition. Patients were divided into three groups [8 noncachectic (NC), 18 with mild cachexia (MC), and 19 with severe cachexia (SC)] based on the severity of weight loss and muscle mass. For each patient, a pectoralis major muscle biopsy was collected at the time of implantable chamber placement. We used high‐resolution oxygraphy to measure mitochondrial muscle oxygen consumption on permeabilized muscle fibres. We also performed optical and electron microscopy analyses, as well as gene and protein expression analyses.

Results

Forty‐five patients were included. Patients were 67% male, aged 67 years (interquartile range, 59–77). Twenty‐three (51%) and 22 (49%) patients were managed for pancreatic and colorectal cancer, respectively. Our results show a positive correlation between median myofibres area and skeletal muscle index (P = 0.0007). Cancer cachexia was associated with a decrease in MAFbx protein expression (P < 0.01), a marker of proteolysis through the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway. Mitochondrial oxygen consumption related to energy wasting was significantly increased (SC vs. NC, P = 0.028) and mitochondrial area tended to increase (SC vs. MC, P = 0.056) in SC patients. On the contrary, mitochondria content and networks remain unaltered in cachectic cancer patients. Finally, our results show no dysfunction in lipid storage and endoplasmic reticulum homeostasis.

Conclusions

This clinical protocol brings unique data that provide new insight to mechanisms underlying muscle wasting in cancer cachexia. We report for the first time an increase in mitochondrial energy wasting in the skeletal muscle of severe cachectic cancer patients. Additional clinical studies are essential to further the exploring and understanding of these alterations.
A greener approach for the synthesis of pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives in glycerol under microwave heating
Authors: Martinho Luan A. , Andrade Carlos Kleber Z.
Published: March 2022

Herein, we report the multicomponent synthesis of pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidine derivatives from 6‐aminouracil, aromatic aldehydes, and malononitrile in glycerol as a green solvent under microwave heating. This methodology shows several advantages: catalyst‐free synthesis, up to 90% yield, operational simplicity, short reaction times, easy work‐up procedure, and a greener approach compared with other methods reported in the literature.
Frequency and severity of COVID‐19 in patients with various rheumatic diseases treated regularly with colchicine or hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Oztas Mert , Bektas Murat , Karacan Ilker , Aliyeva Numune , Dag Ayten , Aghamuradov Sarvan , Cevirgen Selim Berke , Sari Selma , Bolayirli Murat , Can Gunay , Hatemi Gulen , Seyahi Emire , Ozdogan Huri , Gul Ahmet , Ugurlu Serdal
Published: March 2022

This study aimed to investigate whether patients regularly using colchicine or hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have an advantage of protection from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) or developing less severe disease. Patients who were taking colchicine or HCQ regularly for a rheumatic disease including Familial Mediterranean Fever, Behçet's syndrome, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Sjogren's syndrome, as well as their healthy household contacts as the control group, were included in the study. The clinical data regarding COVID‐19 were collected using a standard form, and serum samples were analyzed for anti‐severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐COV‐2) nucleocapsid immunoglobulin G (IgG). A total of 635 regular colchicine users with their 643 household contacts and 317 regular HCQ users with their 333 household contacts were analyzed. Anti‐SARS‐COV‐2 IgG was positive in 43 (6.8%) regular colchicine users and 35 (5.4%) household contacts (odds ratio [OR] = 1.3; 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.8–2; p = 0.3). COVID‐19‐related symptoms were described by 29 (67.4%) of the patients and 17 (48.6%) household contacts (OR = 2.2; 95% CI :0.9–5.5; p = 0.09), and hospital admission was observed in five (11.6%) and one (2.9%) of these subjects (OR = 4.5; 95% CI: 0.5–40.2; p = 0.1), respectively. Seropositive subjects were observed in 22 (6.9%) regular HCQ users and 24 (7.2%) household contacts (OR = 1.1; 95% CI: 0.6–1.9; p =  0.8). COVID‐19‐related symptoms occurred in 16 (72.7%) of the 22 patients and 12 (50%) of 24 household contacts (OR = 2.7; 95% CI: 0.8–9.1; p = 0.1). Three patients (13.6%) were admitted to hospital, while one household contact (4.2%) was hospitalized (OR = 3.6; 95% CI: 0.3–37.8; p = 0.2). Being on a regular treatment of colchicine or HCQ did not result in the prevention of COVID‐19 or amelioration of its manifestations.
Assessing the acceptance of augmented‐reality and head‐mounted display in medicine counselling
Authors: Prenzler Shane , Anoopkumar‐Dukie Shailendra , Grant Gary
Published: March 2022

Background

Both head‐mounted display (HMD) and augmented reality (AR) are examples of emergent and disruptive technologies that have had little exposure in pharmacy. The developed HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide allowed pharmacists to examine this technology in a familiar context.

Aims

To determine acceptance among pharmacists for the HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide, as a form of emergent and disruptive technology.

Methods

Forty Australian community pharmacists were recruited for a cohort study. The study was completed in a pre‐ and post‐test manner, where pharmacists were allowed to explore the HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide. The pre‐test included questions related to demographic variables. The post‐test used Technology Assessment Model (TAM) based Likert scale questions on a 1–5 (strongly agree to strongly disagree) scale. Questions unrelated to TAM were also included in the pre‐ and post‐test and compared using a Wilcoxon signed‐rank test. These engaged participants on perceived usefulness of the HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide and their willingness to use technology. Qualitative feedback to open ended questions in the post‐test was also sought.

Results

Technology Assessment Model constructs (perceived ease‐of‐use, perceived usefulness, and behavioural intention) indicated a positive reception overall. Pre‐ and post‐test questions regarding perceived usefulness of the HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide and willingness to use technology declined after using the HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide.

Conclusion

Participant expectations although still positive, declined after using the HMD‐AR warfarin counselling guide. Further study is needed for technological advances, design optimisation and to assess patient acceptance to ensure the system is fit for purpose for pharmacy practice.
Structural characterization of intersections between semiconducting and metallic carbon nanotubes using tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Yoshikawa Masanobu , Murakami Masataka , Fujita Yasuhiko
Published: March 2022

We obtained Raman images at the intersections single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and Raman spectra using a reflection‐type tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) system with a high spatial resolution, moving the x–y piezoelectric scanner in steps of 2 nm and with a highly sensitive TERS tip. Consequently, we observed a significant change in the Raman spectra at the intersection between semiconducting and metallic SWCNTs. We observed new G bands at the intersection of SWCNTs. Especially, one of the G bands, which is not observed in isolated metallic and semiconducting SWCNTs, was observed at approximately 1620 cm−1. The G band at approximately 1620 cm−1, which we observed only at the intersection, is considered to be shifted by compressive stresses. The observation of the G band at approximately 1620 cm−1 at the intersection between the semiconducting and metallic SWCNTs suggests that the intersection is at least under a compressive stress of approximately 5 GPa.
Conditional survival estimates for merkel cell carcinoma reveal the dynamic nature of prognostication
Authors: Miura John T. , Lindner Hanna , Karakousis Giorgos C. , Sharon Cimarron E. , Gimotty Phyllis A.
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

Conditional survival (CS) analysis has emerged as a dynamic prognostication methodology. The goal of this study was to determine disease‐specific CS rates in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with MCC from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) registry (1988–2016). Stage‐specific 5‐year MCC‐specific CS rates for study and survivor cohorts were estimated, and the significance of clinicopathologic factors to predict 1‐year MCC‐specific death was evaluated using multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Within stage, 5‐year CS survival rates improved with increasing survivorship. Pathologic Stage I patients had the highest 5‐year CS rate at diagnosis (89.1%) but the smallest increase over time (96% among 5‐year survivors). Stage IV patients experienced the greatest change in 5‐year CS rates from 25.4% (at diagnosis) to 88% (5‐year survivors). At diagnosis stage, age, sex, and primary site were all significantly associated with 1‐year MCC‐related death in the multivariate analysis. In contrast, among 5‐year survivors only sex and age at diagnosis were significant predictors.

Conclusions

MCC CS rates improved across all disease stages over time. Additionally, the relationships of prognostic factors with 1‐year MCC‐death changed with increasing survivorship. This perspective can provide a foundation for informed decision‐making.
Comparison of Ultrasonography to MRI in the Diagnosis of Lower Extremity Bone Stress Injuries
Authors: Syrop Isaac , Fukushima Yaeko , Mullins Kevin , Raiser Sara , Lawley Richard , Bosshardt Lauren , Finlay Andrea , Ray Jeremiah , Fredericson Michael
Published: March 2022

Objective

To determine the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound imaging (USI) compared to the reference‐standard of MRI in the diagnosis of bone stress injury (BSI).

Methods

A prospective blinded cohort study was conducted. Thirty seven patients who presented to an academic sports medicine clinic from 2016 to 2020 with suspected lower‐extremity BSI on clinical exam underwent both magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and USI. Participant characteristics were collected including age, gender and sport. Exclusion criteria included contraindication for dedicated MRI, traumatic fracture, or severe tendon or ligamentous injury. The primary outcome measure was BSI diagnosis by USI. An 8‐point assessment system was utilized on USI for diagnosis of BSI, and the Fredericson and Nattiv22 criteria were applied to classify MRI findings.

Results

Thirty seven participants who met study criteria were consented to participate. All participants completed baseline measures. Using MRI, there were 30 (81%) athletes with a positive and seven participants with a negative BSI diagnosis. The most common BSIs in the study were in the metatarsal (54%) and tibia (32%). Compared to MRI, USI demonstrated 0.80 sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.61–0.92) and 0.71 specificity (95% CI, 0.29–0.96) in detecting BSI, with a positive predictive value of 0.92 (95% CI, 0.75–0.99) and negative predictive value of 0.45 (95% CI, 0.17–0.77).

Conclusions

USI is a potentially useful point‐of‐care tool for practicing sports medicine providers to combine with their clinical evaluation in the diagnosis of BSIs. Further research is ongoing to determine the role of USI in follow‐up care and return‐to‐play protocols.
Objective diagnosis of internal nasal valve collapse by four‐phase rhinomanometry
Authors: Gagnieur Pierre , Fieux Maxime , Louis Bruno , Béquignon Emilie , Bartier Sophie , Vertu‐Ciolino Delphine
Published: March 2022

Background

Internal valve collapse is a frequent cause of nasal obstruction but remains poorly understood and is sometimes treated inappropriately as a result. No functional or imaging test for the condition has been validated and the reference diagnostic technique is physical examination. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of four‐phase rhinomanometry as a diagnostic test for internal valve collapse.

Methods

In a case–control diagnostic accuracy study, the nostrils of adult patients consulting for chronic nasal obstruction were classified as “collapsed” or “non‐collapsed” based on clinical findings. Four‐phase rhinomanometry was performed in all patients. The area defined by the path of the flow/pressure curve in the two phases of inspiration (the “inspiratory loop area” or “hysteresis loop area”) was calculated for both nasal cavities and the threshold value with the highest Youden index was identified.

Results

Sixty‐six patients (132 nostrils) were included with 72 nostrils classified as collapsed and 60 as non‐collapsed. Before nasal decongestion, the inspiratory loop area with the highest Youden index was 17.3 Pa L s−1 and the corresponding sensitivity and specificity were 88.3% (95% confidence interval, 80.0–95.0%) and 89.9% (82.6–95.7%), respectively.

Conclusions

In these patients, a cutoff inspiratory loop area in four‐phase rhinomanometry data reproduced clinical diagnoses of internal valve collapse with high sensitivity and specificity. This method may offer a firmer basis for treatment indications than subjective physical examinations.

Level of evidence

Level 4.
Spread of Fukushima‐derived radiocesium over the coastal ocean in response to typhoon‐induced flooding in September 2011
Authors: Tanaka Kiyoshi , Nagao Seiya , Kitade Yujiro , Niki Masato , Katsumata Takaaki , Miyama Toru , Yoshinari Hiroshi
Published: March 2022

The Tohoku earthquake off the Pacific coast of Japan on 11 March 2011 and the resulting tsunami led to severe damage to the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) in Japan. Therefore, a shipboard survey was conducted to elucidate spread processes of radioactive cesium over the coastal ocean in the Kuroshio–Oyashio transition zone (south of the FDNPP) from 07 to 12 September 2011, that is, within 8 d of a river flood event associated with Typhoon Talas (T1112). In the survey, broad distributions of radiocesium and low‐salinity water extending nearly 100 km off the coast were successfully observed at the sea surface. Moreover, a significant negative correlation was detected between radiocesium and salinity in the coastal ocean. Just before the shipboard survey, the typhoon brought extremely heavy rainfall over the catchment areas of the Tone and Naka Rivers flowing into the survey region, resulting in discharges from the Tone and Naka Rivers reaching approximately 2800 and 700 m3 s−1, respectively, at their peaks (04 September). These discharges were the highest recorded since 2007. Satellite images corresponding to the high‐radioactivity and low‐salinity areas revealed that chlorophyll blooms also spread over a broad area during the survey. These results indicate that the broad distributions of radiocesium and low‐salinity water over the coastal ocean were brought about by the high levels of river discharge associated with the typhoon.
Clinical characteristics and identification of a novel TGFB1 variant in three unrelated Chinese families with Camurati‐Engelmann disease
Authors: Tao Xiao‐Hui , Yang Xing‐Guang , Wang Zi‐Yuan , Xu Yang , Lin Xiao‐Yun , Xu Tian , Zhang Zhen‐Lin , Yue Hua
Published: March 2022

Background

To investigate the clinical characteristics and molecular diagnosis of Camurati‐Engelmann disease (CAEND) in Chinese individuals.

Methods

We recruited six patients aged 14 to 45 years in three unrelated families with CAEND, including five females and one male. Clinical manifestations, biochemical tests, and radiographic examinations were analyzed. The TGFB1 gene variants were further identified by Sanger sequencing. In addition, one female patient was followed up for 5 years.

Results

The onset age of the patients ranged from 1 to 6 years. All of them had family histories and consisted of an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Gait disturbance, fatigue, progressive bone pain, muscle atrophy, and weakness were the main complaints. Laboratory examinations revealed that the inflammatory markers were at high levels, in addition to the increased bone metabolism indicators. The thickened diaphysis of long bones and the narrowed medullary cavity was observed by radiography. Furthermore, bone scintigraphy detected abnormal symmetrical radioactive concentrations in the affected regions of bone. Sanger sequencing identified a missense heterozygous variant in exon 4 of the TGFB1 gene in families 1 and 2, resulting in Arg218Cys, which confirmed CAEND. Moreover, one novel variant c.669C > G in exon 4 of the TGFB1 gene harboring Cys223Trp was detected in family 3. Subsequent bioinformatics software predicted that the novel variant was pathogenic. Of interest, III:2 in family 3 experienced heart valve defects and tachycardia at birth, which had never been reported in CAEND patients before. Moreover, the response to drug treatment is also full of contradictions and is worthy of further study.

Conclusion

Besides the typical CAEND manifestations, the new phenotypic characteristics of tachycardia and heart valve defects were first reported in one woman carrying the novel variant p.Cys223Trp in TGFB1 the gene. In addition, we demonstrated that increased bone metabolism indicators and inflammatory markers may possess auxiliary diagnosis for CAEND.
Dynamics of dissipative soliton and conventional soliton in passively mode‐locked erbium‐doped fiber laser
Authors: Li Ying‐Ying , Gao Bo , Huo Jia‐Yu , Wu Ge , Han Ying , Chen Bing‐Kun , Liu Lie
Published: March 2022

We have numerically demonstrated the dynamics of dissipative soliton (DS) and conventional soliton (CS) in passively mode‐locked erbium‐doped fiber (EDF) laser. By adjusting corresponding parameters, DS could turn into inset soliton, rope soliton, and sawtooth soliton. To our knowledge, this is the first time these phenomena mentioned above have been observed. Meanwhile, CS could convert to two‐soliton molecules, three‐soliton molecules, and noise‐like pulses. When studying the convert process and dynamics of CS, we found the phase of CS is closest to 0 compared to all solitons mentioned above, which means that it can play a considerable role in fiber lasers with strict requirements on phase change. Our simulation results can contribute to a better understanding of the various soliton dynamics in passively mode‐locked EDF lasers.
Accuracy of placement of ultrasound‐guided corticosteroid injection for subacromial pain (impingement) syndrome does not influence pain and function: Secondary analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chean Chung Shen , Raval Parag , Ogollah Reuben O. , Hall Alison , Roddy Edward , Foster Nadine E.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To investigate whether the accuracy of placement of ultrasound‐guided (US‐guided) corticosteroid injections for subacromial pain (impingement) syndrome (SAPS) influences pain and function outcomes.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of data collected in a previous randomised controlled trial (RCT). Video images of US‐guided subacromial corticosteroid injections delivered in the RCT were reviewed to categorise injection accuracy into three groups: definitely/probably not in the subacromial bursa (Group 1); probably in the subacromial bursa (Group 2); and definitely in the subacromial bursa (Group 3). The primary outcome was the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) total score. Secondary outcomes included SPADI pain and function subscales and participants' self‐reported global impression of change. Outcomes were compared between the accuracy groups after adjusting for pre‐selected baseline characteristics.

Results

US‐guided injection accuracy data were available for 114 participants: 22 categorised into Group 1, 21 into Group 2 and 71 into Group 3. There were no significant differences in mean total SPADI scores between the three injection accuracy groups at 6 weeks (Group 2 vs. 1: 8.22 (95% CI −4.01, 20.50); Group 3 versus 1: −0.57 (95% CI −10.27, 9.13) or 6 months (Group 2 vs. 1: 12.38 (95% CI −5.34, 30.10); Group 3 versus 1: 3.10 (95% CI −11.04, 17.23).

Conclusions

The accuracy of injection placement in SAPS did not influence pain and function, suggesting that improvements in patients' outcomes using subacromial corticosteroid injections can be achieved without US guidance.
A distributed accelerated optimization algorithm over time‐varying directed graphs with uncoordinated step‐sizes
Authors: Ran Liang , Wang Chengbo , Zheng Lifeng , Li Huaqing , Wang Zheng
Published: March 2022

This article proposes a distributed accelerated algorithm for solving distributed optimization problems which are defined in a time‐varying directed network. Different from the existing algorithms, by implementing row‐ and column‐stochastic matrices, this work eliminates the conservatism in the related work due to doubly‐stochastic matrices, and do not required estimate the Perron eigenvector of a stochastic matrix. Assuming that the global objective function is strongly convex and the gradient of each local objective function is Lipschitz‐continuous, it is proved that the algorithm converges linearly to the global optimization solution with proper uncoordinated step‐sizes and momentum parameters. The numerical simulations are utilized to verify the correctness of the theoretical results and show the practicability of the proposed algorithm.
Homogeneous Dislocation Nucleation in Molecular Crystal Cyclotetramethylene‐Tetranitramine (β‐HMX)
Authors: Zhang Zhaocheng , Picu Catalin R.
Published: March 2022

The molecular crystal cyclotetramethylene‐tetranitramine (β‐HMX) is the active ingredient in some broadly used plastic bonded explosives. Plasticity is thought to be essential for reaction initiation and detonation. In this work we use molecular simulations to investigate the conditions under which dislocations nucleate homogeneously in β‐HMX. We evaluate the resolved shear stress leading to homogeneous nucleation of dislocation loops in the planes currently considered to be most important for plasticity in this crystal, (011) and (101), and at pressures up to 20 GPa. The importance of homogeneous nucleation for plastic deformation is discussed in relation to the other plasticity mechanisms operating in HMX. It is concluded that homogeneous nucleation is unlikely to happen at pressures above 5 GPa, while at pressures below this threshold homogeneous nucleation competes with shear localization. The article also presents γ‐surfaces for the (011) and (101) planes, which are used here to interpret the nucleation process and critical stresses, and have broader importance in other contexts. A discussion of the procedure required to compute γ‐surfaces in molecular crystals is included.
Machine‐Learning a Solution for Reactive Atomistic Simulations of Energetic Materials
Authors: Lindsey Rebecca K. , Huy Pham Cong , Goldman Nir , Bastea Sorin , Fried Laurence E.
Published: March 2022

Many of the safety and performance‐related properties of energetic materials (EM) are related to complex condensed phase chemistry at extremeP,Tconditions eluding direct experimental investigation. Atomistic simulations can play a vital role in generating insight into EM chemistry, but they rely critically on the availability of suitable interatomic potentials (“force fields”). The ChIMES machine learning approach enables generation of interatomic potentials for condensed phase reacting systems, with accuracy similar to Kohn‐Sham density functional theory through its unique, highly flexible orthogonal basis set of interaction functions and systematically improvable many‐body expansion of interatomic interactions. ChIMES has been successfully applied to a variety of systems including simple model energetic materials, both as a correction for simpler quantum theory and as a stand‐alone interatomic potential. In this perspective, the successes and challenges of applying the ChIMES approach to the reactive molecular dynamics of energetic materials are outlined. Our machine‐learned approach is general and can be applied to a variety of different application areas where atomic‐level calculations can be used to help guide and elucidate experiments.
A case of simultaneous diagnosis of tunica vaginalis testis and pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Matsuki Rei , Ishii Satoru , Suzuki Tomoyuki , Sugiyama Haruhito
Published: March 2022

A 37‐year‐old man was admitted to our hospital with chest pain and fever. Computed tomography showed pleural effusion and irregularly marginated, elevated lesions inside diffuse pleural thickening. Detailed medical examination showed swelling of the left testicle. 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography showed uptakes at the thickened pleura and left testis. Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging showed a mass in the left testis with a heterogeneous and partially calcified tumour present interiorly. Thoracoscopy was performed under local anaesthesia, enabling the observation of masses at the pleura and biopsy of the mass, which was diagnosed as malignant pleural mesothelioma. The affected testicle was resected and diagnosed as tunica vaginalis testis mesothelioma. Thus, simultaneous tunica vaginalis testis and pleural mesothelioma were diagnosed. It is necessary to closely examine parts of the body other than the chest.
Did court dismiss student's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: March 2022

Jane Doe was a member of Morgan State University's track and field team. In August 2017, another track athlete sexually assaulted Doe in her residence hall room. Doe's mother learned of the assault the following month and reported it to the university's athletics director.
Analyzing Anisotropy in 2D Rhenium Disulfide Using Dichromatic Polarized Reflectance
Authors: Wen Ting , Li Jing , Deng Qingyang , Jiao Chenyin , Zhang Maodi , Wu Song , Lin Lin , Huang Wen , Xia Juan , Wang Zenghui
Published: March 2022

In‐plane anisotropy in 2D rhenium disulfide (ReS2) offers intriguing opportunities for designing future electronic and optical devices, and toward such applications, it is crucial to identify the crystal orientation in such 2D anisotropic materials. Existing spectroscopy or electron microscopy methods for determining the crystalline orientation often require complicated sample preparing procedures and specialized equipment, which could sometimes limit their application. In this work, a dichromatic polarized reflectance method is demonstrated, which can quickly and accurately resolve the crystal orientation (Re–Re chain) in 2D ReS2 crystals with different thicknesses. Furthermore, it can be readily extended to multi‐chromatic schemes to achieve greater measurement capability and can be easily tailored to work for different 2D materials. The method offers a simple and effective approach for studying anisotropy in 2D materials.
Rational Design Strategy of Novel Energy Storage Systems: Toward High‐Performance Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries
Authors: Lei Xin , Liang Xiao , Yang Rui , Zhang Fan , Wang Chenchen , Lee Chun‐Sing , Tang Yongbing
Published: March 2022

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) are promising candidates to replace currently commercialized lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) in large‐scale energy storage applications owing to their merits of abundant resources, low cost, high theoretical volumetric capacity, etc. However, the development of RMBs is still facing great challenges including the incompatibility of the electrolyte and the lack of suitable cathode materials with high reversible capacity and fast kinetics of Mg2+. While tremendous efforts have been made to explore compatible electrolytes and appropriate electrode materials, the rational design of unconventional Mg‐based battery systems is another effective strategy for achieving high electrochemical performance. This review specifically discusses the recent research progress of various Mg‐based battery systems. First, the optimization of electrolyte and electrode materials for conventional RMBs is briefly discussed. Furthermore, various Mg‐based battery systems, including Mg‐chalcogen (S, Se, Te) batteries, Mg‐halogen (Br2, I2) batteries, hybrid‐ion batteries, and Mg‐based dual‐ion batteries are systematically summarized. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of different Mg‐based battery systems, which can inspire latecomers to explore new strategies for the development of high‐performance and practically available RMBs.
Gentle Patterning Approaches toward Compatibility with Bio‐Organic Materials and Their Environmental Aspects
Authors: Grebenko Artem K. , Motovilov Konstantin A. , Bubis Anton V. , Nasibulin Albert G.
Published: March 2022

Advances in material science, bioelectronic, and implantable medicine combined with recent requests for eco‐friendly materials and technologies inevitably formulate new challenges for nano‐ and micropatterning techniques. Overall, the importance of creating micro‐ and nanostructures is motivated by a large manifold of fundamental and applied properties accessible only at the nanoscale. Lithography is a crucial family of fabrication methods to create prototypes and produce devices on an industrial scale. The pure trend in the miniaturization of critical electronic semiconducting components has been recently enhanced by implementing bio‐organic systems in electronics. So far, significant efforts have been made to find novel lithographic approaches and develop old ones to reach compatibility with delicate bio‐organic systems and minimize the impact on the environment. Herein, such delicate materials and sophisticated patterning techniques are briefly reviewed.
A machine learning approach to classification for traders in financial markets
Authors: Wright Isaac D. , Reimherr Matthew , Liechty John
Published: March 2022

We introduce new machine learning methods for clustering traders who are actively trading in a modern electronic exchange which uses a matching engine to track aggregate and individual‐level limit order books. Each trader's individual limit order book is centered (with the current best bid and ask prices acting as a central reference), and the patterns in the individual limit order books are identified using a Wasserstein distance. The method is illustrated using simulated limit order book data and limit order book data from a stock exchange in Canada.
Kenichi Fukui, Frontier Molecular Orbital Theory, and the Woodward‐Hoffmann Rules. Part I. The Person†**
Authors: Seeman Jeffrey I.
Published: March 2022

Kenichi Fukui shared the 1981 Nobel Prize in Chemistry with Roald Hoffmann for “their theories, developed independently, concerning the course of chemical reactions.” This is Paper 4 – Part I, of a three‐part trilogy within a 27‐paper series on the history of the development of the Woodward‐Hoffmann rules. The personality and professional style of Fukui is discussed as well as his style of teaching and his mottos and sayings. A brief chronological history of his academic and professional life is presented along with a listing of Fukui's great flexibility in behaviors and in science. Lastly, a short list of Fukui's key awards is provided.
A New Adaptive Filter to Remove Impulsive Noise in Color Images
Authors: Ben Atitallah Ahmed
Published: March 2022

In this paper, a new adaptive vector directional distance filter (AVDDF) is proposed. The AVDDF filter is developed to remove the ‘salt and papper’ impulsive noise in color images. This algorithm consists in first step to detect pixels that are likely to have been contaminated with noise by using a threshold value. In second step, after recognizing the corrupted pixels, the smallest angular‐magnitude distance is used to replace the noisy pixels. The proposed filter is tested with several standard color images which are contaminated with various levels of ‘salt and pepper’ impulsive noise (3%, 5%, 10%, 20% and 30%). The performance of the proposed filter is measured with peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) and normalized color difference (NCD). The simulation results show that the proposed filter permits to ameliorate the performance of the classic vector directional distance filter (VDDF). Indeed, it provides an improvement by an average of 5% and 26% in the PSNR and NCD relative to the VDDF filter, respectively, with a small increase in the execution time by 6%. Besides, the AVDDF filter allows also an enhancement by an average of 2% and 14% in the PSNR and NCD relative to adaptive vector median filter (AVMF), respectively. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.