bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respiratory sound classification for crackles, wheezes, and rhonchi in the clinical field using deep learning
Authors: Kim Yoonjoo , Hyon YunKyong , Jung Sung Soo , Lee Sunju , Yoo Geon , Chung Chaeuk , Ha Taeyoung
Published: August 2021

Auscultation has been essential part of the physical examination; this is non-invasive, real-time, and very informative. Detection of abnormal respiratory sounds with a stethoscope is important in diagnosing respiratory diseases and providing first aid. However, accurate interpretation of respiratory sounds requires clinician’s considerable expertise, so trainees such as interns and residents sometimes misidentify respiratory sounds. To overcome such limitations, we tried to develop an automated classification of breath sounds. We utilized deep learning convolutional neural network (CNN) to categorize 1918 respiratory sounds (normal, crackles, wheezes, rhonchi) recorded in the clinical setting. We developed the predictive model for respiratory sound classification combining pretrained image feature extractor of series, respiratory sound, and CNN classifier. It detected abnormal sounds with an accuracy of 86.5% and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.93. It further classified abnormal lung sounds into crackles, wheezes, or rhonchi with an overall accuracy of 85.7% and a mean AUC of 0.92. On the other hand, as a result of respiratory sound classification by different groups showed varying degree in terms of accuracy; the overall accuracies were 60.3% for medical students, 53.4% for interns, 68.8% for residents, and 80.1% for fellows. Our deep learning-based classification would be able to complement the inaccuracies of clinicians' auscultation, and it may aid in the rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment of respiratory diseases.
The origin of mechanical harmonic distortion within the organ of Corti in living gerbil cochleae
Authors: He Wenxuan , Ren Tianying
Published: August 2021

Although auditory harmonic distortion has been demonstrated psychophysically in humans and electrophysiologically in experimental animals, the cellular origin of the mechanical harmonic distortion remains unclear. To demonstrate the outer hair cell-generated harmonics within the organ of Corti, we measured sub-nanometer vibrations of the reticular lamina from the apical ends of the outer hair cells in living gerbil cochleae using a custom-built heterodyne low-coherence interferometer. The harmonics in the reticular lamina vibration are significantly larger and have broader spectra and shorter latencies than those in the basilar membrane vibration. The latency of the second harmonic is significantly greater than that of the fundamental at low stimulus frequencies. These data indicate that the mechanical harmonics are generated by the outer hair cells over a broad cochlear region and propagate from the generation sites to their own best-frequency locations.
Ultrastructural analysis in yeast reveals a meiosis-specific actin-containing nuclear bundle
Authors: Takagi Tomoko , Osumi Masako , Shinohara Akira
Published: August 2021

Actin polymerises to form filaments/cables for motility, transport, and the structural framework in a cell. Recent studies show that actin polymers are present not only in the cytoplasm but also in the nuclei of vertebrate cells. Here, we show, by electron microscopic observation with rapid freezing and high-pressure freezing, a unique bundled structure containing actin in the nuclei of budding yeast cells undergoing meiosis. The nuclear bundle during meiosis consists of multiple filaments with a rectangular lattice arrangement, often showing a feather-like appearance. The bundle was immunolabelled with an anti-actin antibody and was sensitive to an actin-depolymerising drug. Similar to cytoplasmic bundles, nuclear bundles are rarely seen in premeiotic cells and spores and are induced during meiotic prophase-I. The formation of the nuclear bundle is independent of DNA double-stranded breaks. We speculate that nuclear bundles containing actin play a role in nuclear events during meiotic prophase I.
Electrochemiluminescent chiral discrimination with chiral Ag2S quantum dots/few-layer carbon nitride nanosheets
Authors: Zhao Qianqian , Cai Wenrong , Yang Baozhu , Yin Zheng-Zhi , Wu Datong , Kong Yong
Published: August 2021

NALC is used to decorate Ag2S QDs, which are loaded onto few-layer C3N4 for the construction of an ECL chiral sensor.
A LC-MS3 strategy to determine lamotrigine by Q-Q-trap tandem mass spectrometry coupled with triple stage fragmentation to enhance sensitivity and selectivity
Authors: Shi Meiyun , Jiang Qiuhong , Lyu Qiushi , Yuan Zhengting , Deng Lili , Yin Lei
Published: August 2021

The novelty of this study is the MS3 technique resulting in high selectivity and high sensitivity.
A radical-mediated multicomponent cascade reaction for the synthesis of azide-biindole derivatives
Authors: Liu Xiaoyu , He Kun , Gao Na , Jiang Peiyun , Lin Jun , Jin Yi
Published: August 2021

A one-pot multicomponent cascade reaction involving imidazole nitrogen-centered radicals for the construction of a novel class of azide-biindole compounds.
Rank and signature classification of topochemical solid-state reactions
Authors: Tokmachev Andrey M.
Published: August 2021

Solid-state reactions are classified into 10 categories based on the unit cells of the reactant and product.
Exploring machine learning methods for absolute configuration determination with vibrational circular dichroism
Authors: Vermeyen Tom , Brence Jure , Van Echelpoel Robin , Aerts Roy , Acke Guillaume , Bultinck Patrick , Herrebout Wouter
Published: August 2021

The capabilities of machine learning models to extract the absolute configuration of a series of compounds from their vibrational circular dichroism spectra have been demonstrated. The important spectral areas are identified.
Nanoporous bismuth for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to formate
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Wang Zhiyong , Jin Xianbo
Published: August 2021

The size of the primary particles of nanoporous Bi has a great impact on the electrocatalytic performance of Bi for the reduction of CO2 to formate.
Kinetics of the gas phase reaction of the Criegee intermediate CH2OO with SO2as a function of temperature
Authors: Onel Lavinia , Lade Rachel , Mortiboy Jennifer , Blitz Mark A. , Seakins Paul W. , Heard Dwayne E. , Stone Daniel
Published: August 2021

The kinetics of the gas phase reaction of the Criegee intermediate CH2OO with SO2have been studied as a function of temperature in the range 223–344 K at 85 Torr using flash photolysis of CH2I2/O2/SO2/N2mixtures at 248 nm coupled to time-resolved broadband UV absorption spectroscopy.
Disentangling the complex network of non-covalent interactions in fenchone hydrates via rotational spectroscopy and quantum chemistry
Authors: Chrayteh Mhamad , Burevschi Ecaterina , Loru Donatella , Huet Thérèse R. , Dréan Pascal , Sanz M. Eugenia
Published: August 2021

We report on the microwave spectra of water adducts of fenchone. In particular, we were able to observe the spectral signatures of three trihydrates of fenchone.
HfS2 thin films deposited at room temperature by an emerging technique, solution atomic layer deposition
Authors: Cao Yuanyuan , Zhu Sha , Bachmann Julien
Published: August 2021

The two-dimensional material and semiconducting dichalcogenide hafnium disulfide is deposited at room temperature by atomic layer deposition from molecular precursors dissolved in hexane.
Ratiometric fluorescent detection of dipicolinic acid as an anthrax biomarker based on a high-nuclearity Yb18 nanoring
Authors: Ma Yanan , Yang Xiaoping , Hao Wenxin , Zhu Ting , Wang Chengri , Schipper Desmond
Published: August 2021

An 18-metal Yb(iii) nanoring that shows a ratiometric fluorescent response to 2,6-dipicolinic acid with high sensitivity and selectivity was synthesized from two types of polydentate organic ligands.
A facile synthesis of Ni0.85Se@Cu2−xSe nanorods as high-performance supercapacitor electrode materials
Authors: Liu Shuling , Wang Rui , Wang Qiuting , Tian Qianhong , Cui Xian
Published: August 2021

The as-prepared Ni0.85Se@Cu2−xSe nanorod-like electrode exhibits superior electrochemical performance for supercapacitors.
The synergy of dietary supplements Lactobacillus salivarius LI01 and Bifidobacterium longum TC01 in alleviating liver failure in rats treated with d-galactosamine
Authors: Zhuge Aoxiang , Li Shengjie , Yuan Yin , Li Bo , Li Lanjuan
Published: August 2021

L. salivarius LI01 and B. longum TC01 synergize in liver injury via altering gut microbiota and protecting gut barrier.
Kombucha ameliorates LPS-induced sepsis in a mouse model
Authors: Wang Penghui , Feng Zhihua , Sang Xiao , Chen Wenzhi , Zhang Xiaoni , Xiao Jianbin , Chen Youqiang , Chen Qi , Yang Minhe , Su Jingqian
Published: August 2021

As a popular traditional fermented beverage, kombucha has been extensively studied for its health benefits.
Furan platform chemicals beyond fuels and plastics
Authors: Bielski Roman , Grynkiewicz Grzegorz
Published: August 2021

Primary furan platform chemicals are attractive reactants for the production of fuels and polymers. This perspective shows that they are economic starting materials in the chemical and enzymatic synthesis of numerous chemicals of varying complexity.
Thermo-responsive fluorinated surfactant for on-demand demulsification of microfluidic droplets
Authors: An Chuanfeng , Zhang Yujie , Li Hanting , Zhang Haoyue , Zhang Yonghao , Wang Jiamian , Zhang Yang , Cheng Fang , Sun Kai , Wang Huanan
Published: August 2021

Thermo-responsive fluorinated surfactant can lead to destabilization of droplets and subsequently cause droplet coalescence. Thus, the encapsulated cargoes can be retrieved on-demand from the droplets without complicated processing.
Photochemical synthesis of an epigenetic focused tetrahydroquinoline library
Authors: Green Adam I. , Burslem George M.
Published: August 2021

This work describes the photochemical synthesis of a tetrahydroquinoline library enriched with chemotypes privileged for epigenetic targets and exploring new regions of chemical space.
Role of Ce concentration on the structural and magnetic properties of functional magnetic oxide particles
Authors: Saini Jyoti , Sharma Monika , Kuanr Bijoy Kumar
Published: August 2021

Functional magnetic oxide particles offer exceptional GHz frequency capabilities, which can significantly enhance the utility of communication and signal processing devices.
Copper-catalyzed N-arylation of pyrroles: an overview
Authors: Hisana Kalathingal Nasreen , Afsina C. M. A. , Anilkumar Gopinathan
Published: August 2021

The copper-catalyzed N-arylation of pyrroles has attracted great attention in organic synthesis due to its wide applications in medicinal chemistry, natural products, etc. Here, we summarize the overall advances in the copper-catalyzed C–N cross-coupling of pyrroles with aryl halides.
Phosphine-substituted diiron complexes Fe2(μ-Rodt)(CO)6−n(PPh3)n(R = Ph, Me, H andn= 1, 2) featuring desymmetrized oxadithiolate bridges: structures, protonation, and electrocatalysis
Authors: Gu Xiao-Li , Li Jian-Rong , Jin Bo , Guo Yang , Jing Xing-Bin , Zhao Pei-Hua
Published: August 2021

The influence of desymmetrized dithiolates (Rodt) and phosphine coordination modes (PPh3) on the structural, protophilic, and electrocatalytic features of diiron complexes 4–6 and 7–9 is described.
Biomolecules in cell-derived extracellular vesicle chariots as warriors to repair damaged tissues
Authors: Guo Yingshu , Wu Di , Zhang Xu , Zhang Kaixiang , Luo Yang
Published: August 2021

The biomolecules carried by EVs truly achieve tissue repair, not the EVs themselves. We can compare EVs to “chariots”, and biomolecules to brave “warriors”.
Deoxygenative nucleophilic difluoromethylselenylation of carboxylic acids and alcohols with BT-SeCF2H
Authors: Tironi Matteo , Dix Stefan , Hopkinson Matthew N.
Published: August 2021

BT-SeCF2H is introduced as a nucleophilic reagent for the deoxygenative difluoromethylselenylation of readily available carboxylic acid and alcohols.
Ultrahigh compressibility and superior elasticity carbon framework derived from shaddock peel for high-performance pressure sensing
Authors: Zheng Na , Chen Changzhou , Tang Mengqi , Wu Weixin , Jiang Yan , Min Douyong
Published: August 2021

The piezoresistive sensor constructed by a PDMS modified Shaddock peel 3D carbon skeleton has an excellent sensing performance, which has promising potential in the field of human health detection.
Emergent antibacterial activity ofN-(thiazol-2-yl)benzenesulfonamides in conjunction with cell-penetrating octaarginine
Authors: Ratrey Poonam , Das Mahapatra Amarjyoti , Pandit Shiny , Hadianawala Murtuza , Majhi Sasmita , Mishra Abhijit , Datta Bhaskar
Published: August 2021

Hybrid antimicrobials that combine the effect of two or more agents represent a promising antibacterial therapeutic strategy.
Efficient nickel or copper oxides decorated graphene–polyaniline interface for application in selective methanol sensing
Authors: Nguyen Nhat Xuan An , Viet Hai Le , Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan , Pham Thi Nam , Nguyen Thi Thom , Huynh Le Thanh Nguyen , Pham Van Viet , Nguyen Thi Thu Trang , Thai Hoang Nguyen , Dai Lam Tran
Published: August 2021

PANI/graphene/NiO or PANI/graphene/CuO were prepared by a simple, easy to-control electrochemical method and applied as novel materials for sensitive and selective methanol sensing.
Electronic properties of a two-dimensional van der Waals MoGe2N4/MoSi2N4heterobilayer: effect of the insertion of a graphene layer and interlayer coupling
Authors: Pham D. K.
Published: August 2021

We investigate the structural and contact types in a 2D van der Waals heterobilayer between MoGe2N4and MoSi2N4monolayers, and the monolayers in the presence of electrical graphene.
Polyethylene glycol-derived polyelectrolyte–protein nanoclusters for protein drug delivery
Authors: Yu Yuanxiang , Shao Yi , Zhou Mingzhen , Li Wenjing
Published: August 2021

Polyethylene glycol-derived polyelectrolyte–protein nanoclusters were synthesized based on electrostatic complexation for protein drug delivery.
Trimerization and cyclization of reactive P-functionalities confined within OCO pincers
Authors: Chinen Beatrice L. , Hyvl Jakub , Brayton Daniel F. , Riek Matthew M. , Yoshida Wesley Y. , Chapp Timothy W. , Rheingold Arnold L. , Cain Matthew F.
Published: August 2021

Attempted synthesis of OCO-supported 10–P–3 species led to trimerization or cyclization.
Selective separation of amines from continuous processes using automated pH controlled extraction
Authors: Power Luke A. , Clayton Adam D. , Reynolds William R. , Hose David R. J. , Ainsworth Caroline , Chamberlain Thomas W. , Nguyen Bao N. , Bourne Richard A. , Kapur Nikil , Blacker A. John
Published: August 2021

An automated separation system is described for identifying the optimal conditions for purifying an amine from a mixture.
Orthogonal binding and displacement of different guest types using a coordination cage host with cavity-based and surface-based binding sites
Authors: Ludden Michael D. , Taylor Christopher G. P. , Ward Michael D.
Published: August 2021

Orthogonal binding of neutral or anionic fluorophores to the cavity or surface, respectively, of a coordination cage host allows a dual-probe displacement assay which gives a different fluorescence colorimetric response according to where analyte species bind.
Preventing isomerization of the fused-ring core by introducing a methyl group for efficient non-fullerene acceptors
Authors: Deng Xiong , Zi Miao , Hao Ruofei , Qi Yushuang , Yue Peng , Shen Ping , Zhao Bin , Tan Songting
Published: August 2021

Two FREAs were synthesized and applied in organic solar cells. The OSC devices based on BTMe-C8-2F exhibited a PCE of 12.72%. The high-yield FREAs were achieved by introducing methyl groups to prevent the isomerization of the fused ring core.
Exploring the phase space of Zn2SbN3, a novel semiconducting nitride
Authors: Mis Allison , Lany Stephan , Brennecka Geoff L. , Tamboli Adele
Published: August 2021

The novel semiconductor Zn2SbN3 is one of a growing list of ternary nitrides with promise for optoelectronic and energy applications.
The BAF chromatin remodeling complexes: structure, function, and synthetic lethalities
Authors: Varga Julia , Kube Marie , Luck Katja , Schick Sandra
Published: August 2021

BAF complexes are multi-subunit chromatin remodelers, which have a fundamental role in genomic regulation. Large-scale sequencing efforts have revealed frequent BAF complex mutations in many human diseases, particularly in cancer and neurological disorders. These findings not only underscore the importance of the BAF chromatin remodelers in cellular physiological processes, but urge a more detailed understanding of their structure and molecular action to enable the development of targeted therapeutic approaches for diseases with BAF complex alterations. Here, we review recent progress in understanding the composition, assembly, structure, and function of BAF complexes, and the consequences of their disease-associated mutations. Furthermore, we highlight intra-complex subunit dependencies and synthetic lethal interactions, which have emerged as promising treatment modalities for BAF-related diseases.
Lipid–protein interactions in virus assembly and budding from the host cell plasma membrane
Authors: Motsa Balindile B. , Stahelin Robert V.
Published: August 2021

Lipid enveloped viruses contain a lipid bilayer coat that protects their genome to help facilitate entry into the new host cell. This lipid bilayer comes from the host cell which they infect. After viral replication, the mature virion hijacks the host cell plasma membrane where it is then released to infect new cells. This process is facilitated by the interaction between phospholipids that make up the plasma membrane and specialized viral matrix proteins. This step in the viral lifecycle may represent a viable therapeutic strategy for small molecules that aim to block enveloped virus spread. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of plasma membrane lipid–protein interactions on viral assembly and budding.
The influence of lipid digestion on the fate of orally administered drug delivery vehicles
Authors: Boyd Ben J. , Clulow Andrew J.
Published: August 2021

This review will focus on orally administered lipid-based drug delivery vehicles and specifically the influence of lipid digestion on the structure of the carrier lipids and their entrained drug cargoes. Digestion of the formulation lipids, which are typically apolar triglycerides, generates amphiphilic monoglycerides and fatty acids that can self-assemble into a diverse array of liquid crystalline structures. Tracking the dynamic changes in self-assembly of the lipid digestion products during digestion has recently been made possible using synchrotron-based small angle X-ray scattering. The influence of lipid chain length and degree of unsaturation on the resulting lipid structuring will be described in the context of the critical packing parameter theory. The chemical and structural transformation of the formulation lipids can also have a dramatic impact on the physical state of drugs co-administered with the formulation. It is often assumed that the best strategy for drug development is to maximise drug solubility in the undigested formulation lipids and to incorporate additives to maintain drug solubility during digestion. However, it is possible to improve drug absorption using lipid digestion in cases where the solubility of the dosed drug or one of its polymorphic forms is greater in the digested lipids. Three different fates for drugs administered with digestible lipid-based formulations will be discussed: (1) where the drug is more soluble in the undigested formulation lipids; (2) where the drug undergoes a polymorphic transformation during lipid digestion; and (3) where the drug is more soluble in the digested formulation lipids.
Parents' Perceptions of the Overall Impact of Stuttering on Young Children
Authors: Guttormsen Linn Stokke , Yaruss J. Scott , Næss Kari-Anne Bottegård
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Research has revealed the presence of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive reactions in young children who stutter; however, prior studies have not examined the overall impact of stuttering on young children's lives. Such information is necessary for improving understanding of how stuttering affects young children and for ensuring appropriate early intervention.

Method

This study employed an adaptation of the Overall Assessment of the Speaker's Experience of Stuttering for School-Age Children that was designed to ask parents about their perceptions of the impact of stuttering on their young children. Thirty-eight parents of young children who stutter (2–5 years of age) provided their perceptions of the impact of stuttering on their children. Parents rated how certain they were in their judgments using a 5-point scale to provide an indication of their confidence in proxy ratings of impact.

Results

Results indicated that, on average, parents perceived that stuttering affected their children negatively. Qualitatively, parents provided descriptions of the impact of stuttering on their children's quality of life, communication difficulties across people and situations, and reactions to stuttering; they also commented on their own feelings and strategies for handling impact. On average, parents perceived themselves to be certain in rating the impact of stuttering on their children.

Conclusions

Results indicated that parents identified adverse impact in their children's lives. Even though parents considered themselves to be certain in their impact ratings, clinicians and researchers should also assess the perspective of the children if appropriate. This is because present findings reveal that parents may not have insight into all aspects of impact, in particular, cognitive reactions to stuttering. Still, parents' perceptions of impact are important for clinicians to consider when giving recommendations for therapy, as they can provide important insight into the family's needs.
Perceptions of African American English by Students in Speech-Language Pathology Programs
Authors: Hendricks Alison Eisel , Watson-Wales Makayla , Reed Paul E.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Despite the increased awareness that all dialects are valid linguistic forms, perceptions of African American English (AAE) use are often negative in the general population. Students training for careers as speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are required to have coursework relating to cultural and linguistic diversity. However, little is known about the perceptions of AAE among students in SLP programs.

Method

Seventy-three students from 46 randomly selected university programs in the United States completed an online survey including explicit statements regarding the validity of AAE and a matched-guide task assessing participants' implicit perceptions of AAE. Participants were randomly assigned to one of four audio pairings that differed in terms of the dialect spoken and the formality of the conversational context. Participants rated the speaker on 11 attributes (e.g., literate/illiterate, rich/poor) using the Revised Speech Dialect Attitudinal Scale.

Results

Participants indicated positive opinions of statements on the validity of AAE. However, across three categories of personal attributes—sociointellectual, aesthetic, and dynamism—participants who heard the Mainstream American English recordings rated the speaker differently than recordings including AAE.

Conclusions

Students in SLP programs express positive opinions regarding AAE, and yet, they rate speakers who speak AAE lower in personal attributes. The results highlight the importance of expanding training for future SLPs to include not only explicit statements about the value of AAE but also activities addressing implicit perceptions of dialect use. We provide a brief discussion of how the current data can be implemented for such an activity. Lesson plans and materials are provided as supplemental materials.

Supplemental Material

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.15241638
Is High-Intensity Speech Intervention Better? A Comparison of High-Intensity Intervention Versus Low-Intensity Intervention in Children With a Cleft Palate
Authors: Alighieri Cassandra , Van Lierde Kristiane , De Caesemaeker Anne-Sophie , Demuynck Kris , Bruneel Laura , D'haeseleer Evelien , Bettens Kim
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of speech intervention provided with a low intensity with speech intervention provided with a high intensity on the speech and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in Dutch-speaking children with a cleft palate with or without a cleft lip (CP ± L) between 4 and 12 years.

Method

A longitudinal, prospective, randomized controlled trial with a multiple baseline design was used. Twelve children with a CP ± L (Mage= 8.0 years,SD= 1.54) were divided into two groups using block randomization stratified by age and gender: One group received low-intensity speech intervention (LISI;n= 6) and one group received high-intensity speech intervention (HISI;n= 6). Children in the LISI group received intervention with a session duration of 1 hr, a dose frequency of 1 session per week, and a total intervention duration of 10 weeks. Children in the HISI group received intervention with a session duration of 1 hr, a dose frequency of 5 sessions per week, and a total intervention duration of 2 weeks. The cumulative intervention intensity was kept constant. Both groups received identical therapy programs provided by the same experienced speech therapist. Perceptual speech assessments were performed on baseline and posttreatment data points. Changes in HRQoL were assessed using the Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Effects on Life Outcomes (VELO) questionnaire. Both groups were compared over time using (generalized) linear mixed models.

Results

No significant Time × Group interactions were observed for the percentage of correctly produced consonants at the word and sentence levels, indicating no differences in evolution over time among the two groups. The variables speech understandability, speech acceptability, and the total VELO scores significantly improved following HISI, but not following LISI.

Conclusions

Children in the HISI group made equal and, for some variables, even superior progress in only 2 weeks of therapy compared to children in the LISI group who received 10 weeks of therapy. HISI is a promising strategy to improve speech outcomes and HRQoL in a shorter time period.
Adaptive constrained population extremal optimisation‐based robust proportional‐integral‐derivation frequency control method for an islanded microgrid
Authors: Lu Kang‐Di , Zeng Guo‐Qiang , Zhou Wuneng
Published: August 2021

The expected penetration of renewable sources is driving the islanded microgrid towards uncertainties, which have highly influence the reliability and complexities of frequency control. To alleviate the influence caused by load fluctuations and inherent variability of renewable sources, this article proposes an optimised robust proportional‐integral‐derivation (PID) frequency control method by taking full advantage of a robust control strategy while simultaneously maintaining the basic characteristics of a PID controller. During the process of iterated optimisation, a weighted objective function is used to balance the tracking error performance, robust stability and disturbance attenuation performance. Then, the robust PID frequency (RPIDF) controller is determined by an adaptive constrained population extremal optimisation algorithm based on self‐adaptive penalty constraint‐handling technique. The proposed control method is examined on a typical islanded microgrid, and the control performance is evaluated under various disturbances and parametric uncertainties. Finally, the simulation results indicate that the fitness value of the proposed method is 1.7872, which is lower than 2.9585 and 3.0887 obtained by two other evolutionary algorithms‐based RPIDF controllers. Moreover, the comprehensive simulation results fully demonstrate that the proposed method is superior to other comparison methods in terms of four performance indices on the most considered scenarios.
Control and implementation of multifunctional microgrid with seamless synchronization capability
Authors: Yadav Varsha , Kewat Seema , Singh Bhim , Verma Arunima
Published: August 2021

A microgrid with a solar photovoltaic (SPV) array, wind generator, battery energy storage (BES), and a bidirectional DC–DC converter with seamless transition capability from on‐grid mode (OGM) to off‐grid mode (FGM) and grid reconnected mode is presented. This microgrid, based on renewable sources, increases the authenticity and sustainability of the supply and has the ability to feed the load in OGM and FGM as well as during mode shifting. The undetermined disturbances and unpredictability of the microgrid in OGM are managed by a sixth‐order complex filter (6thOCF)‐based control. With this control, the load current quadrature fundamental component (LCFC‐Q) is obtained without a DC offset even during voltage imbalances. This control provides effective mitigation of harmonics and monitors the flow of active power, which improves the grid current quality. The control approach based on a resonant plus proportional resonant (R+PR) controller along with the harmonics compensation ability is used to control the microgrid in FGM. A dual 6thOCF (D6thOCF) is cascaded in series with the phase‐locked loop for effortless synchronization of the grid. This enhances the system performance without affecting the stability. The microgrid performance is validated through simulated and experimental results under dynamic and steady‐state conditions.
Transport coefficients enhanced by suprathermal particles in nonequilibrium heliospheric plasmas
Authors: Husidic E. , Lazar M. , Fichtner H. , Scherer K. , Poedts S.
Published: August 2021

Context.In heliospheric plasmas, such as the solar wind and planetary magnetospheres, the transport of energy and particles is governed by various fluxes (e.g., heat flux, particle flux, current flow) triggered by different forces, electromagnetic fields, and gradients in density or temperature. In the outer corona and at relatively low heliocentric distances in the solar wind (i.e., < 1 AU), particle-particle collisions play an important role in the transport of energy, momentum, and matter, described within classical transport theory by the transport coefficients, which relate the fluxes to their sources.

Aims.The aim of the present paper is to improve the evaluation of the main transport coefficients in such nonequilibrium plasmas, on the basis of an implicit realistic characterization of their particle velocity distributions, in accord with the in situ observations. Of particular interest is the presence of suprathermal populations and their influence on these transport coefficients.

Methods.Using the Boltzmann transport equation and macroscopic laws for the energy and particle fluxes, we derived transport coefficients, namely, electric conductivity, thermoelectric coefficient, thermal conductivity, diffusion, and mobility coefficients. These are conditioned by the electrons, which are empirically well described by the Kappa distribution, with a nearly Maxwellian (quasi-thermal) core and power-law tails enhanced by the suprathermal population. Here we have adopted the original Kappa approach that has the ability to outline and quantify the contribution of suprathermal populations.

Results.Without exception, the transport coefficients are found to be systematically and markedly enhanced in the presence of suprathermal electrons (i.e., for finite values of theκparameter), due to the additional kinetic energy with which these populations contribute to the dynamics of space plasma systems. The present results also show how important an adequate Kappa modeling of suprathermal populations is, which is in contrast to other modified interpretations that underestimate the effects of these populations.
Der KEZ – Kölner Fragebogen zu Einstellungen zu Zwangsmaßnahmen
Authors: Baar Immanuel , Schmitz-Buhl Mario , Gouzoulis-Mayfrank Euphrosyne
Published: August 2021

Ziel der Studie Erstellung eines testtheoretisch fundierten Fragebogens, der die Einstellungen des Personals psychiatrischer Einrichtungen zur Anwendung von Zwang erfasst.

Methodik Eine Erstversion des Fragebogens mit 43 Items wurde auf Basis der inhaltsanalytischen Auswertung von 20 leitfadengestützten Interviews entwickelt. Anschließend wurden alle Ärzt*innen und Pflegekräfte eines psychiatrischen Krankenhauses zur anonymen Teilnahme eingeladen und danach die Endfassung des Fragebogens KEZ nach testtheoretischer Analyse erstellt.

Ergebnisse 226 Mitarbeitende nahmen teil (Rücklaufquote 32,3 %). Die testtheoretische Überprüfung führte zu einem 39-Item-Set mit hoher Konsistenz (Cronbach’s α = 0,904) und 3 Faktoren: 1) Akzeptanz; 2) Sinnhaftigkeit/Legitimation und 3) Sicherheit/Ordnung durch Zwangsmaßnahmen.

Schlussfolgerung Mit dem KEZ steht ein Instrument zur Verfügung, das die Haltung des psychiatrischen Personals zur Anwendung von Zwang in ihren verschiedenen Facetten erfasst.
Can the Cell-free DNA Test Predict Placenta Accreta Spectrum or Placenta Previa Totalis?
Authors: Adiyaman Duygu , Kuyucu Melda , Atakul Bahar Konuralp , Can Dilara , Özeren Mehmet , Koç Altuğ , Kutbay Yaşar Bekir , Arıkan Şener , Öztekin Deniz
Published: August 2021

Background Following the discovery that fetal DNA originates from the trophoblastic cells of the placenta, the contribution of the cell-free DNA test in placenta-related obstetric complications has begun to be investigated. Compared to uncomplicated pregnancies, higher fetal fractions were detected in placenta accreta spectrum and placenta previa, which are among placenta-related obstetric complications. However, this data applies only to advanced gestational weeks.

Aim To investigate the possible predictive value of fetal fraction in cell-free DNA tests in pregnancies with placenta previa and placenta accreta spectrum in early gestational ages.

Materials and Methods This study was conducted in women who were screened via cell-free DNA tests for common aneuploidies in the first and second trimester and subsequently diagnosed with placenta previa or placenta accreta spectrum. After the diagnosis was confirmed with a C-section, fetal fractions were retrospectively compared to a control group with a history of an uncomplicated C-section who were also previously screened by cell-free DNA test.

Results The median and interquartile range (IQR) of fetal fractions for placenta previa (n=19), placenta accreta spectrum (n=7), and control groups (n=85) were 8.1 (6–10), 6.8 (6.7–10.7), and 7.1 (4.7–9.65), respectively. No statistically significant difference was observed among the three groups in terms of fetal fractions (p=0.587).

Conclusions According to our data, we did not observe any relationship between placental invasion abnormalities vs. control group or placenta previa vs. control group using the fetal fractions of the cell-free DNA test. Furthermore, we could not confirm a predictive role and/or any additional clinical contribution. We believe that future studies focusing on placental mRNA might be more helpful than cell-free fetal DNA testing.
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Findings in Patients with Rare Solitary Necrotic Nodule of the Liver – a Multicenter Report
Authors: Francica Giampiero , Meloni Maria Franca , Riccardi Laura , de Sio Ilario , Caturelli Eugenio , Terracciano Fulvia , Giangregorio Francesco , Chiang Jason , Danzi Roberta , Marra Antonella , Niosi Marco , Ranalli Teresa Valentina , Pompili Maurizio
Published: August 2021

Purpose This multicenter retrospective study highlights the contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) findings in a series of histologically proven solitary necrotic nodules (SNN) of the liver, a poorly understood pathologic entity of uncertain origin that mimics malignancy.

Materials and Methods 22 patients (M/F 13/9; mean age 59.4 years, SD ± 10.7, range 35–81) with histological diagnosis of SNN and CEUS were selected from clinical, imaging, and pathological archives of 7 US interventional centers, each of which provided 1 to 6 cases (mean 2.8). Pathological diagnosis was made on 20 US-guided biopsies and 2 surgical specimens. 2 patients had 2 SNNs with identical CEUS findings so that imaging analysis was carried out on 24 nodules.

Results SNN was an incidental finding in healthy people in 10 cases (45.5 %), and it was discovered during follow-up for either known extrahepatic malignancies (9 cases = 41 %) or chronic liver disease (3 cases = 13.5 %). SNNs had a mean size of 19.3 mm (SD ± 6.5, range 9–40). On B-mode US, SNNs appeared hypoechoic in 14 cases (66.7 %), “target-like” in 7 cases (29.2 %), and homogeneously hyperechoic in 1 case (4.1 %). On CEUS, all lesions appeared devoid of contrast enhancement (“punched out” aspect) in the arterial, portal venous, and late phases after US contrast agent injection. A uniformly thin, hyperenhancing ring in the early arterial phase and isoenhanced with the surrounding parenchyma in the portal venous and late phases was found in 10 nodules (41.6 %). Clinical and imaging follow-up (mean duration 42.2 months, SD ± 34.9, range 2–108) was available in 15 patients with 16 SNNs: no changes in size and echostructure were seen.

Conclusion CEUS can contribute to the diagnosis of SNN when a “punched out” appearance in all vascular phases with or without thin rim enhancement in the very early arterial phase is present in healthy subjects in whom a focal liver lesion is incidentally found. In patients with a history of chronic liver disease or malignancy, US-guided biopsy represents the unavoidable first-line diagnostic modality.
Subcortical Stimulation with Tip of Ultrasound Aspirator
Authors: Colle Henry , Colle David , Noens Bonny , Dhaen Bob , Alessi Giovanni , Muller Peter , Aerts Annelies , Robert Erik , van der Linden Chris
Published: August 2021

Background During resection of intrinsic brain tumors in eloquent areas, particularly under awake mapping, subcortical stimulation is mandatory to avoid irreversible deficits by damaging white fiber tracts. The current practice is to alternate between subcortical stimulation with an appropriate probe and resection of tumoral tissue with an ultrasound aspiration device. Switching between different devices induces supplementary movement and possible tissue trauma, loss of time, and inaccuracies in the localization of the involved area.

Objective To use one device for both stimulation as well as a resecting tool.

Methods The tip of different ultrasound aspiration devices is currently used for monopolar current transmission (e.g., for vessel coagulation in liver surgery). We use the same circuitry for monopolar subcortical stimulation when connected with the usual stimulator devices.

Results We have applied this method since 2004 in over 500 patients during tumor resection with cortical and subcortical stimulation, mostly with awake language and motor monitoring.

Conclusion A method is presented using existing stimulation and wiring devices by which simultaneous subcortical stimulation and ultrasonic aspiration are applied with the same tool. The accuracy, safety, and speed of intrinsic intracranial lesion resection can be improved when subcortical stimulation is applied.
Association and Implications of Blood and Plaque n-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Composition in Patients Treated with Oral Eicosapentaenoic Acid before Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Ishikawa Tatsuya , Yamaguchi Koji , Funatsu Takayuki , Okada Yoshikazu , Kawamata Takakazu
Published: August 2021

Long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), have been shown to prevent atherosclerosis-related cardiovascular disease, including stroke. Recently, the ratio of serum EPA to arachidonic acid (AA; EPA/AA ratio) has been reported to be a biomarker to prevent cardiovascular disease. In this study, we evaluate whether the serum EPA/AA ratio would be a useful biomarker for determining the efficacy of orally administered EPA in preventing stroke by investigating tissue and serum EPA/AA ratios, serum inflammatory markers, and carotid artery intimamedia thickness (IMT). Patients with dyslipidemia, as the primary illness scheduled for carotid endarterectomy (CEA), were included and randomly assigned to the EPA group (EPA: 1,800 mg/day plus statin; 10 patients) or non-EPA group (statin only; 15 patients). PUFA fraction was evaluated in the tissue (post-CEA) and serum (pre-CEA and 6 months thereafter). As for the tissue PUFA fraction in the plaque, the EPA group had a significantly higher EPA/AA ratio (EPA group, 0.46; non-EPA group, 0.28; p = 0.01). At 6 months postoperatively, the EPA group had a significantly higher serum EPA/AA ratio (baseline, 0.83; follow-up, 1.60; p = 0.05). No significant differences were found for inflammatory markers and IMT. Both serum and tissue EPA/AA ratios were higher in patients treated with oral EPA. Serum EPA/AA ratio might be a useful biomarker for the efficacy of orally administered EPA.
The Relationship between Hypomineralized Second Primary Molars and Molar Incisor Hypomineralization in a Group of School-Aged Children in Turkey
Authors: Karakaya Esra , Sonmez Hayriye
Published: August 2021

Objective This study aims to evaluate the relationship between hypomineralized second primary molars (HSPMs) and molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) and to determine the prevalence of HSPM in different severities of MIH.

Materials and Methods The study included a total of 345 children aged 7 to 11, affected with MIH at various severities. Scoring for HSPM defects was adapted according to the European Academy of Pediatric Dentistry diagnostic criteria and applied by a single calibrated examiner. Comparative evaluation of HSPM at various MIH severities was tested using a single variable logistic regression analysis. An odds ratio at a 95% confidence interval was used to test the relation between HSPM and MIH.

Results The prevalence of HSPM was 61.7% in MIH-affected children, whereas it was 2.6% in the control group (p < 0.001). The presence of HSPM and the increase in the number of affected teeth significantly raised the odds of the occurrence of MIH. HSPM prevalence was higher in children affected with milder MIH compared to those affected severely. The recorded defects were common as white-cream demarcated opacities without any loss of structure.

Conclusion The prevalence of HSPM was significantly higher in children presenting MIH. Therefore, hypomineralization on the primary second molars pointed to an association between MIH and HSPM. For an early diagnosis of MIH, children presenting HSPM whose first permanent molars have not erupted yet should be followed up at regular intervals by pediatric dentists.
Effect of Electronic Prescribing Compared to Paper-Based (Handwritten) Prescribing on Primary Medication Adherence in an Outpatient Setting: A Systematic Review
Authors: Aluga David , Nnyanzi Lawrence A. , King Nicola , Okolie Elvis A. , Raby Peter
Published: August 2021

Background Electronic prescriptions are often created and delivered electronically to the pharmacy while paper-based/handwritten prescriptions may be delivered to the pharmacy by the patients. These differences in the mode of creation and transmission of the two types of prescription could influence the rate at which outpatients fill new prescriptions of previously untried medications.

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate literatures to determine the impact of electronic prescribing compared with paper-based/handwritten prescribing on primary medication adherence in an outpatient setting.

Methods The keywords and phrases “outpatients,” “e-prescriptions,” “paper-based prescriptions,” and “primary medication adherence” were combined with their relevant synonyms and medical subject headings. A comprehensive literature search was conducted on EMBASE, CINAHL, and MEDLINE databases, and Google Scholar. The results of the search were screened and selected using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) was used for quality appraisal of included studies. Data relevant to the objective of the review were extracted and analyzed through narrative synthesis.

Results A total of 10 original studies were included in the final review, including 1 prospective randomized study and 9 observational studies. Nine of the 10 studies were performed in the United States. Four of the studies indicated that electronic prescribing significantly increases initial medication adherence, while four of the studies suggested the opposite. The remaining two studies found no significant difference in primary medication adherence between the two methods of prescribing. The variations in the studies did not allow the homogeneity required for meta-analysis to be achieved.

Conclusion The conflicting findings relating to the efficacy of primary medication adherence across both systems demonstrate the need for a standardized measure of medication adherence. This would help further determine the respective benefits of both approaches. Future research should also be conducted in different countries to give a more accurate representation of adherence.
‘I Just Keep Quiet’: Addressing the Challenges of Married Rohingya Girls and Creating Opportunities for Change
Authors: Guglielmi Silvia , Mitu Khadija , Seager Jennifer
Published: August 2021

Child marriage among Rohingya refugees living in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, is driven by economic strain and deep-seated gender norms. Mounting evidence shows the harmful effects of child marriage, and SDG 5.3 underpins a global impetus to eliminate it. Our mixed-methods research across refugee camps in Ukhia and Teknaf Upazilas included quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews (IDIs) with married and unmarried girls and their parents, and focus group discussions (FGDs) with parents of married and unmarried girls, boys, and community members to understand Rohingya perspectives on child marriage, the role of norms in displacement, and how married girls’ capabilities are impacted by their marital status. We find that married girls face increased gender-based violence (GBV) risks, including intimate partner violence (IPV), and greater mental distress. While norms are shifting for older Rohingya women, married girls are excluded from social participation or personal growth beyond the household. We argue that involving married girls in community activities and vocational training designed according to local market needs may empower married girls.
How to wield regional power from afar: a conceptual discussion illustrated by the case of France in Central Africa
Authors: Mattheis Frank
Published: August 2021

What does it take to belong to a region and exert power over it? The scholarship on regional powers has elaborated sophisticated indicators to establish nuances of power, but the depiction of the region has remained vague. Most approaches are characterised by a narrow territorial interpretation that does not properly take into account power wielded by geographically distant actors. Using the case of France in Central Africa this article argues that a distant state can a) hold a dominant share of military, economic and soft power, b) use this power for hegemonic behaviour and c) be recognised as a leader in the region by both internal and external actors. The main specificity of distant actors as regional powers is the greater necessity for a legitimising narrative. France tackles this hurdle with the help of regional organisations that reproduce imperial structures. By holding the informal status of a quasi-member in regional governance structures, France participates in region-building processes from the inside rather than the outside.