bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence‐enabled distributed energy conservative model for mobile internet of things using software‐defined network
Authors: Haseeb Khalid , Islam Naveed , Ahmed Imran , Hassan Mohammad Mehedi , Jeon Gwanggil
Published: July 2022

The Internet of things (IoT) is an emerging technology for many smart applications due to its efficient resource utilization, scalability, and fast interaction with the physical world. Software‐defined network (SDN), on the other hand, provides dynamic services for controlling and managing real‐time systems. However, collected data are sent to a central location, which requires balancing energy resources with redundant channels to maximize the availability of smart functions. Furthermore, the IoT network faces numerous security vulnerabilities as a result of its open communication space, including malicious messages and privacy concerns. Thus, this paper presents a distributed and artificial intelligence‐based energy‐efficient model for IoT‐SDN architecture, which aims to improve data aggregation and power distribution. It also provides security and authentication for smart communication systems. First, the proposed model introduces the heuristic evaluation using artificial intelligence and decreases the power consumption for sensor nodes in a real‐time system. Moreover, it optimizes the paradigm of distributed processing and efficiently increases the green energy technology with nominal management costs using the mobile edges. Second, the aggregated data of the environment is secured using a centralized controller to attain the most trustworthy data availability. The experimental results show a comparative analysis of the proposed model in terms of energy efficiency, packet drop ratio, and waiting time by 22%, 23%, 40%, and 49% as compared to existing studies.
Rarity begets rarity: Social and environmental drivers of rare organisms in cities
Authors: Ong Theresa W. , Lin Brenda B. , Lucatero Azucena , Cohen Hamutahl , Bichier Peter , Egerer Monika H. , Danieu Alana , Jha Shalene , Philpott Stacy M. , Liere Heidi
Published: July 2022

Cities are sometimes characterized as homogenous with species assemblages composed of abundant, generalist species having similar ecological functions. Under this assumption, rare species, or species observed infrequently, would have especially high conservation value in cities for their potential to increase functional diversity. Management to increase the number of rare species in cities could be an important conservation strategy in a rapidly urbanizing world. However, most studies of species rarity define rarity in relatively pristine environments where human management and disturbance is minimized. We know little about what species are rare, how many species are rare, and what management practices promote rare species in urban environments. Here, we identified which plants and species of birds and bees that control pests and pollinate crops are rare in urban gardens and assessed how social, biophysical factors, and cross‐taxonomic comparisons influence rare species richness. We found overwhelming numbers of rare species, with more than 50% of plants observed classified as rare. Our results highlight the importance of women, older individuals, and gardeners who live closer to garden sites in increasing the number of rare plants within urban areas. Fewer rare plants were found in older gardens and gardens with more bare soil. There were more rare bird species in larger gardens and more rare bee species for which canopy cover was higher. We also found that in some cases, rarity begets rarity, with positive correlations found between the number of rare plants and bee species and between bee and bird species. Overall, our results suggest that urban gardens include a high number of species existing at low frequency and that social and biophysical factors promoting rare, planned biodiversity can cascade down to promote rare, associated biodiversity.
Echocardiographic phenotypes of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes may indicate early diabetic myocardial disease
Authors: Wang Zheng , Wang ChenChen , Xie ZuoLing , Huang Xi , ShangGuan HaiYan , Zhu WenWen , Wang ShaoHua
Published: July 2022

Aim

Type 2 diabetes may impair cardiac structure and function at very early stage, other factors, for example, obesity and hypertension, can induce aforementioned abnormalities individually. This study aimed to explore precise prevention and treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) by using cluster analysis of echocardiographic variables.

Methods and results

A total of 66 536 inpatients with diabetes from 2013 to 2018 were investigated, and 7112 patients were available for analysis after nadir. The cluster analysis was performed on echocardiographic variables to assess the clinical profiles and risk factors of clusters. Two clusters were identified. Cluster 1 with 3576 patients (50.3%, including 62.5% female) had hypertension in 62.4%, while the lower rate of obesity (13.7%). Ultrasound findings showed that 79.9% of them had left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), the most characteristic change in the early stages of DCM. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), uric acid and antithrombin III were independent risk factors for LVDD (P < 0.0001); 64.0% of the 3536 patients in the second group were male, with a high prevalence of obesity (30.1%) and a higher prevalence of hypertension (79.5%), In particular, decreased systolic function and a high rate of LV hypertrophy (46.8%) represented the progressive phase of DCM (P < 0.0001). SBP, diastolic blood pressure, BMI and creatinine were independent correlates of LV mass index (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The cluster analysis of echocardiographic variables may improve the identification of groups of patients with similar risks and different disease courses and will facilitate the achievement of targeted early prevention and treatment of DCM.
Prognostic value of high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin I in patients with non‐ischaemic heart failure: insights from China
Authors: Tian Pengchao , Zhao Xuemei , Huang Liyan , Feng Jiayu , Zhao Lang , Liang Lin , Huang Boping , Zhang Yuhui , Zhang Jian
Published: July 2022

Aims

Evidence of the prognostic value of high‐sensitivity troponin in patients with non‐ischaemic heart failure (NIHF) is scarce. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs‐cTnI) in NIHF patients.

Methods

Hs‐cTnI was measured at baseline in 650 NIHF patients admitted to the Heart Failure Center. The prognostic value of hs‐cTnI was assessed based on a well‐established model (including age, sex, New York Heart Association class, left ventricular ejection fraction, haemoglobin, sodium, estimated glomerular filtration rate, diabetes mellitus, treatment with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers, treatment with β‐blockers, and NT‐proBNP).

Results

During a median follow‐up of 1036 days, 163 patients died of various causes. In total, 46.92% of patients had high hs‐cTnI (hs‐cTnI >0.011 ng/ml). Over a 3‐year follow‐up, patients with high hs‐cTnI (>0.011 ng/ml) had a 1.54 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.11–2.15] fold higher all‐cause mortality risk than those without. Increasing concertation of hs‐cTnI was also associated with a 23.0% (95% CI 13–33%, per log2 increase) increment risk of all‐cause mortality. The inclusion of hs‐cTnI significantly improved the risk prediction and stratification of all‐cause mortality (integrated discrimination improvement 1.58%, 95% CI 0.38–2.79%, absolute net reclassification improvement 23.41% 95% CI 4.52–44.49%, additive net reclassification improvement 27.8%, 95% CI 9.29–46.3%) of the well‐established model.

Conclusions

Hs‐cTnI provides significant prognostic value and could further remarkably improve risk stratification and prediction capabilities in NIHF patients.
Social norms (not threat) mediate willingness to sacrifice in individuals fused with the nation: Insights from the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Pretus Clara , Vilarroya Óscar
Published: July 2022

Identity fusion with the community has been previously found to mediate altruism in post‐disaster settings. However, whether this altruistic response is specifically triggered by ingroup threat, or whether it can also be triggered by global threats remains unclear. We evaluated willingness to sacrifice in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic across three survey waves. Against expectations, participants fused with the nation (vs. non‐fused) did not differentially respond to a national versus global threat condition. Conversely, social norms decisively influenced willingness to sacrifice in this sample, with fused individuals with stronger norms about social distancing reporting the highest altruistic response during the first weeks of the pandemic. Longitudinally, after an initial peak in the altruistic response, deteriorating social norms mediated decreases in willingness to sacrifice in individuals fused with the nation (vs. non‐fused). Implications of these results for the development of interventions aimed to address global challenges are discussed.
A Single Spectral Optical Path Design of the Thermophotovoltaic System for Improving Irradiance Intensity and Uniformity
Authors: Liu Xiu-Li , Chen Xue , Li Xiao-Lei , Xia Xin-Lin , Liu Shi-Chao , Liu Yang
Published: July 2022

In the thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system, thermophotovoltaic cells can produce a high output power density. According to existing research results, concentrated irradiance is adopted to achieve high‐level thermophotovoltaic cell output. However, irradiance nonuniformity on the surface of the thermophotovoltaic cell can occur when the energy is concentrated. Such nonuniformity will destroy the balance of temperature and cause a spectrum mismatch of the cell, which will also reduce the reusability. To address these problems, a single spectral TPV optical path with spectral selectivity is proposed. Between the filter and the thermophotovoltaic cell module, a four‐prismatic straight funnel is designed and added. The Monte Carlo ray‐tracing method is used to examine the irradiance intensity and uniformity of the cell surface. The current–voltage characteristics of the cell module are computed using a single‐diode model. The results indicate that the uniformity of the TPV cell module can be maintained above 90% and the average cell module power density is 0.0861 W cm−2with the addition of a four‐prismatic straight funnel. Meanwhile, the network efficiency and the system efficiency are 82.76% and 4.56%, respectively.
Rehabilitation planning in an oilfield in the Monte Austral: Mapping sand‐sized sediment availability and assessing its effect on microtopography rehabilitation
Authors: Ciancio Matías E. , Guida‐Johnson Bárbara , Zuleta Gustavo A.
Published: July 2022

In drylands, the microtopography is formed by mound‐shaped dunes of eolian deposition that occur around shrubs or other vegetation in clumps. These mounds are characteristic of the Monte Austral, which covers 20% of Argentina (approximately 50 million ha), has a strong water deficit and is subjected to land degradation by the oil industry. Considering the biogeomorphological approach, oilfield rehabilitation should begin with regeneration of the mounds as they provide safe sites for vegetation. Since rehabilitation success may be influenced by sand‐sized sediment availability, we addressed two objectives: mapping the sediment availability in an oilfield and evaluating its effect on microtopography rehabilitation. We used a Sentinel‐2 MSI scene and assessed three approaches to map the sediments: two expressions of the Normalized Difference Sand Index and the feature Brightness of the Tasselled Cap Transformation. We validated the three maps using a geomorphological map. Two maps showed the highest agreement with the geomorphological map and errors were associated with the detection of bright lithified or cohesive material not available for sediment transportation. Then, we evaluated the effect of sediments on microtopography rehabilitation. We compared the morphometric traits of mounds (height, maximum and minimum length) located in areas of low and high sediment availability, in both natural and scarified areas. We considered the time since scarification was applied (8–13, 4–8, or <4 years ago). The mounds in the natural areas were larger than the mounds in the scarified areas, so complete microtopography rehabilitation is not achieved 13 years after scarification. The mounds in high‐sediment‐availability areas were different from the initial condition 4 years after scarification, whereas differences took 8 years to become evident with low sediment availability. Sediment availability must be considered when designing rehabilitation techniques to ensure the success and sustainability of the project. Our results have implications for the development of a biogeomorphological model to guide rehabilitation planning.
Power grid operation optimization and forecasting using a combined forecasting system
Authors: Zhang Lifang , Wang Jianzhou , Liu Zhenkun
Published: July 2022

Reliable photovoltaic and wind power generation forecasts are essential for efficient power systems operations. A combined forecasting system is developed, which integrates a data preprocessing method, a sub‐predictor selection rule, and a multi‐objective optimization to integrate various forecasting models. The proposed system effectively aggregates the advantages of all algorithms involved, facilitating greater prediction precision and stability. Experiments indicated that the proposed system can achieve higher quality point and interval forecasting performance relative to the comparative approaches.
Hedging commodities in times of distress: The case of COVID‐19
Authors: Magalhães Luiz Augusto , Silva Thiago Christiano , Tabak Benjamin Miranda
Published: July 2022

This study examines the relation between the COVID‐19 pandemic and hedge efficiency in commodities futures markets. In particular, we first evaluate the informational content of commodity futures by investigating whether futures prices are accurate and unbiased predictors of future–spot prices, and then we identify key financial and real economy transmission channels associated with the pandemic. We use data of all contracts from all commodities traded at Brazilian futures markets from 2018 to 2020. We document market inefficiency and bias for all commodities. We also find that COVID‐19 has a negative correlation with hedge efficiency, and that liquidity, economic activity, export, and agriculture's employment share are transmission channels to hedge efficiency.
The physical and geochemical character of the post‐depositional alterations in the Early‐Middle Jurassic carbonates on the western margin of the Indian Plate: Implications for cement morphologies and dolomitization
Authors: Saboor Abdus , Wang Chengshan , Li Yalin , Xi Chen , Wang Licheng , Jafarian Arman , Hanif Muhammad , Mohibullah Mohibullah
Published: July 2022

The physical and geochemical character of the post‐depositional changes present in the Early‐Middle Jurassic carbonate‐dominated units (Samana Suk, Shinawari, Chiltan and Loralai formations) of the Indus Basin, Pakistan have been addressed. The study is based on 11 sections along a N‐S transect on the western margin of the Indian Plate to provide an insight into the nature of cementation and dolomitization behavior by using an integrated petrographic and geochemical analysis. The carbonates located in the northern proximity are dominated by the eogenetic signatures of hardgrounds, biogenic micritization, and iron‐containing burrows. The pattern and yellowish‐brown coloration of the burrows is distinct, and shows a positive relationship with the Fe, Si, Al, K, Mn concentrations, and meteoric phase. The transition from the Early to Middle Jurassic is marked by a correspondent increase in the dolomitization and bioturbation but its intensity decreases from north to the south. The packing index and marine phreatic environments generally increase towards the south. The planar‐s to planar‐e protodolomite and dolomite proper have particularly targeted the micritic facies and allochems, courtesy of retaining high‐magnesian calcite waters, and the geochemical analysis also reveals some dedolomitization, associated with sequence boundaries. The pore occluding cements of the Samana Suk and Chiltan formations are Fe deficient and have low Sr and Mn levels, as compared to the Shinawari Formation. The latter has an elevated concentration of Fe, Mg, Si, Al, Sr, Mn, and the Fe + Mn versus Sr relationship and Mn* values suggest that cementation dominantly occurred in the oxic‐dysoxic zones of sub‐tropical climate.
Is sleep quality a potential predictor of neurocognitive disorders? A 6‐year follow‐up study in Chinese older adults
Authors: Lai Vivian K. Y. , Fung Ada W. T. , Lam Linda C. W. , Lee Allen T. C.
Published: July 2022

Objective

To investigate the longitudinal association of sleep quality with incidence of neurocognitive disorders in 6 years.

Methods

This was a 6‐year follow‐up study of community‐living older adults who scored a Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) of 0 at baseline. Sleep quality was assessed by the self‐rated Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire, where higher scores indicated poorer sleep quality, and a cutoff score of 5 or above was suggestive of sleep disorder. The study outcome was incident neurocognitive disorders in 6 years, as identified by a CDR of 0.5 or above. Poisson regression analysis was conducted to test if baseline sleep quality was independently associated with risk of incident neurocognitive disorders in 6 years.

Results

Of the 290 participants in this study, 166 (57.2%) developed neurocognitive disorders in 6 years. They had poorer sleep quality (mean [SD] total PSQI score: 6.2 [3.8] vs. 4.9 [3.2], p = 0.001) and higher prevalence of sleep disorder (100 [60.2%] vs. 56 [45.2%], p = 0.01) at baseline than those who remained free of neurocognitive disorder. After controlling for age, gender, education, and physical and psychiatric morbidities, the risk ratios (RRs) for incident neurocognitive disorders were 1.05 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.00–1.11, p < 0.05) for PSQI total score and 1.50 (95% CI = 1.05–2.14, p = 0.03) for sleep disorder at baseline.

Conclusions

Sleep quality might predict the development of neurocognitive disorders. From a clinical perspective, enquiry of sleep quality and screening for sleep disorder should be promoted as part of the neurocognitive disorder risk assessment in older adults.
Grandchild care and loneliness among older Europeans: Longitudinal evidence from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe
Authors: Hajek André , König Hans‐Helmut
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Restricted knowledge exists with regard to the association between grandchild care and loneliness among older Europeans. Hence, our goal was to investigate the association between the onset of grandchild care and loneliness in different European regions and stratified by sex longitudinally.

Methods/Design

Longitudinal data were taken from waves 5 to 6 of the ‘Survey of Health Ageing, and Retirement in Europe’ (SHARE) (n = 83,416 observations). Loneliness was assessed using the established three‐item version of the Revised UCLA Loneliness scale. Transitions into grandchild care (= onset of grandchild care) served as key independent variable. It was adjusted for several covariates in regression analysis. Linear FE regressions with cluster‐robust standard errors were used to mitigate the challenge of unobserved heterogeneity.

Results

Linear FE regressions showed that the onset of grandchild care was significantly associated with an increase in loneliness levels among women (but not men) in Southern Europe (β = 0.28, p = 0.01), whereas the onset of grandchild care was not significantly associated with changes in loneliness levels in both sexes in Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Northern Europe and Israel.

Conclusions

Our study emphasized the association between the onset of grandchild care and increases in loneliness among women in Southern Europe. Efforts (e.g., respite services) are required to support this group to avoid loneliness.
Social isolation and psychological well‐being among older Chinese Americans: Does resilience mediate the association?
Authors: Qi Xiang , Zhang Wei , Wang Katherine , Pei Yaolin , Wu Bei
Published: July 2022

Objectives

Social isolation imposes risks to an individual's psychological well‐being. However, few studies have examined the role of resilience on these associations among older Chinese Americans, the fastest‐growing aging population across all racial/ethnic groups in the United States. We aim to examine the associations of social isolation with indicators of psychological well‐being and the mediating role of resilience in these associations.

Methods

Data were derived from 398 Chinese older adults aged over 55 residing in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 2018. Psychological well‐being was measured by psychological distress, life satisfaction, and happiness. Multivariate linear regressions and ordered logistic regressions were conducted.

Results

Social isolation was positively associated with psychological distress and negatively associated with life satisfaction and happiness (all p < 0.05). By contrast, resilience was associated with lower levels of psychological distress and higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness (all p < 0.05). Moreover, the findings supported our hypothesis that resilience mediated the association between social isolation and psychological well‐being. With regard to social isolation, resilience contributed to 32.0% of its association with distress, 24.9% of the association with life satisfaction, and 16.3% of the association with happiness.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed a significant association between social isolation and psychological well‐being and the mediating role of resilience in the association of older Chinese Americans in Hawaii. The study findings expand our understanding of psychological resources in older Chinese Americans and emphasize the importance of developing intervention programs to foster social connection and resilience among an understudied population.
Monolithic bilayered In2O3 as an efficient interfacial material for high‐performance perovskite solar cells
Authors: Tian Wanjia , Song Peiquan , Zhao Yaping , Shen Lina , Liu Kaikai , Zheng Lingfang , Luo Yujie , Tian Chengbo , Xie Liqiang , Wei Zhanhua
Published: July 2022

Carrier recombination at the buried SnO2/perovskite interface limits the efficiency and stability of n‐i‐p‐structured perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, we report an In2O3 interfacial layer with the distinctive structure of the monolithic compact/nanostructured bilayer. The partial hydrolysis nature of the In3+ ion enables the formation of nanorods on top of the compact In2O3 layer when spin‐coating the In(NO3)3 aqueous solution. This novel interfacial layer reduces the pinholes of the SnO2 film and increases the contact area between the perovskite and electron transport material. Therefore, PSCs with the incorporation of the interfacial layer demonstrate enhanced electron extraction and suppressed carrier recombination. Consequently, the champion device achieves a power conversion efficiency of 23.87% with a high fill factor of 82.14%. The optimized device also shows robust operational stability, retaining over 80% of the initial power conversion efficiency after working at the maximum power point for over 500 h under continuous one‐sun illumination.
Demonstrating Principle Aspects of Peptide‐ and Protein‐ Based Hydrogels Using Metallogels Examples
Authors: Ghrayeb Mnar , Chai Liraz
Published: July 2022

Hydrogels are 3‐dimensional networks composed of synthetic or natural polymers that absorb and retain water. They are formed when polymeric chains are cross‐linked by covalent or non‐covalent bonds. Hydrogels formed by peptides and proteins are unique due to their bioactivity and biocompatibility. Particularly interesting peptide‐ or protein‐based hydrogels are metallogels, hydrogels that form by proteins and peptides that interact with metal ions. Metallogels are potential candidates for medical applications because metal ions are essential for living organisms, for example in respiration, proper growth and development of tissues, red blood cell formation, and immune system stimulation. In this review, we describe general principles of hydrogel formation and we demonstrate them using specific metallogels examples. We focus on physically cross‐linked hydrogels and briefly review their formation mechanism, characterization, mechanical properties, and applications.
Cytokine see‐saw across pregnancy, its related complexities and consequences
Authors: Meyyazhagan Arun , Kuchi Bhotla Haripriya , Pappuswamy Manikantan , Tsibizova Valentina , Al Qasem Malek , Di Renzo Gian Carlo
Published: July 2022

During pregnancy, a woman's immune system adapts to the changing hormonal concentrations, causing immunologic transition. These immunologic changes are required for a full‐term pregnancy, preserving the fetus' innate and adaptive immunity. Preterm labor, miscarriage, gestational diabetes mellitus, and pre‐eclampsia are all caused by abnormal cytokine expression during pregnancy and childbirth. A disruption in the cytokine balance can lead to autoimmune diseases or microbiologic infections, or to autoimmune illness remission during pregnancy with postpartum recurrence. The cytokine treatments are essential and damaging to the developing fetus. The current review summarizes the known research on cytokine changes during pregnancy and their possible consequences for pregnant women. Studies suggest that customizing medication for each woman and her progesterone levels should be based on the cytokine profile of each pregnant woman. Immune cells and chemicals play an important function in development of the placenta and embryo. During pregnancy, T cells divide and move, and a careful balance between proinflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines is necessary. The present review focuses on the mother's endurance in generating fetal cells and the immunologic mechanism involved.
Successful laparoscopic sigmoid transposition for cervicovaginal agenesis in the presence of a functioning uterus: A case series
Authors: Alborzi Saeed , Najarkolaee Elnaz Hosseini , Askary Elham , Alborzi Soroush , Chamanara Kefayat , Zahiri Ziba , Poordast Tahereh
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study investigated the long‐term outcomes of laparascopic sigmoid cervicovaginoplasty in patients with congenital cervicovaginal atresia with a functioning uterus.

Methods

In this case series study, seven patients with cervicovaginal atresia with a functioning uterus underwent laparoscopic sigmoid cervicovaginoplasty surgery between 2016 and 2020. Mean follow‐up duration was 25.9 months (2–48 months). All of the patients had regular menstrual cycles. The average length of the vagina was 8.9 cm (7.6–10.5 cm). In one patient, proximal stenosis of neovagina was observed 12 months after surgery.

Results

The mean age and body mass index of the patients were 18 years (12–27 years) and 19.7 (17.6–22.4), respectively. The average time period between the initiation of disease symptoms and the operation was 52.28 months (2–156 months). There were no postoperative short‐term complications. We did not perform hysterectomy in our patients. None of our patients complained of signs of low anterior resection syndrome. Two patients had sexual activities without dyspareunia, postcoital bleeding, or malodorous vaginal discharge.

Conclusion

Sigmoid cervicovaginoplasty is a safe and effective procedure with satisfactory long‐term outcomes. This surgery eliminates the psychological burden of hysterectomy in these patients. Through preserving the uterus, patients may have a chance of possible future pregnancy if abdominal cerclage is performed.
Directed Steiner tree packing and directed tree connectivity
Authors: Sun Yuefang , Yeo Anders
Published: July 2022

For a digraph , and a set with and , an ‐tree is an out‐tree rooted at with . Two ‐trees and are said to be arc‐disjoint if . Two arc‐disjoint ‐trees and are said to be internally disjoint if . Let and be the maximum number of internally disjoint and arc‐disjoint ‐trees in , respectively. The generalized ‐vertex‐strong connectivity of is defined as
Similarly, the generalized ‐arc‐strong connectivity of is defined as
The generalized ‐vertex‐strong connectivity and generalized ‐arc‐strong connectivity are also called directed tree connectivity which extends the well‐established tree connectivity on undirected graphs to directed graphs and could be seen as a generalization of classical connectivity of digraphs. In this paper, we completely determine the complexity for both and on general digraphs, symmetric digraphs, and Eulerian digraphs. In particular, among our results, we prove and use the NP‐completeness of 2‐linkage problem restricted to Eulerian digraphs. We also give sharp bounds and equalities for the two parameters and .
LI‐RADS Category on MRI Is Associated With Recurrence of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma After Surgery: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Hwang Jeong Ah , Lee Sunyoung , Lee Ji Eun , Yoon Jongjin , Choi Seo‐Yeon , Shin Jaeseung
Published: July 2022

Background

The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI‐RADS) is a comprehensive system for standardizing the terminology and interpretation of liver imaging. The association between the LI‐RADS category and tumor recurrence in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (iCCAs) has not yet been evaluated in a multicenter study.

Purpose

To retrospectively investigate the preoperative clinical and imaging features associated with recurrence‐free survival (RFS) after curative resection of iCCAs and to identify the role of the LI‐RADS category in at‐risk patients.

Study Type

Retrospective, multicenter.

Subjects

A total of 113 patients (mean age: 61.1 years; 74 men, 39 women) who underwent preoperative contrast‐enhanced MRI and curative surgical resection for a single treatment‐naive iCCA between 2008 and 2021.

Filed Strength/Sequence

A 3 T dual gradient‐echo T1WI with in‐ and opposed‐phase, turbo spin‐echo T2WI, diffusion‐weighted echo‐planar images, and three‐dimensional gradient‐echo T1WI before and after administration of contrast agent.

Assessment

MR imaging features were evaluated and assigned for each lesion using LI‐RADS version 2018. RFS was calculated from the date of surgery to tumor recurrence or the last imaging date without evidence of recurrence. Factors affecting RFS were evaluated using clinical and imaging features.

Statistical Tests

Cox proportional hazards model, Kaplan–Meier method, and log‐rank test. A P‐value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 93 (82.3%) were categorized as LR‐M and 20 (17.7%) were categorized as LR‐4 or 5. In the multivariable analysis, LR‐M category (hazard ratio [HR], 8.035; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.096–58.931) and a tumor size >3 cm on MRI (HR, 2.690; 95% CI, 1.319–5.487) were independent factors for poor RFS. The 5‐year RFS rate was significantly higher in patients with iCCA categorized as LR‐4 or 5 than in those categorized as LR‐M (94.4% vs. 51.9%, respectively).

Data Conclusion

Patients with iCCA categorized as LR‐4 or 5 may have a better RFS than those categorized as LR‐M.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Anodizing—The pore makes the difference
Authors: Schneider Michael , Fürbeth Wolfram
Published: July 2022

The presentation gives an insight into the fascinating world of anodizing as corrosion protection but also goes far beyond. Starting with an introduction to the formation of anodic oxide films and their characteristic features, the authors briefly outline the subject of pore nucleation and growth. The number, size, and shape of the pores essentially determine the properties and play a crucial role in the final application of the anodizing layers. The tailoring of pore design, considering the final application as well as the use of the porous oxide layers for subsequent functional modifications, is demonstrated by examples, exclusively developed in the working groups of the respective authors or in joint research projects, which were in part professionally accompanied and supported by the German Corrosion Society GfKORR e.V.
Enriques involutions on pencils of K3 surfaces
Authors: Festi Dino , Veniani Davide Cesare
Published: July 2022

The three pencils of K3 surfaces of minimal discriminant whose general element covers at least one Enriques surface are Kondō's pencils I and II, and the Apéry–Fermi pencil. We enumerate and investigate all Enriques surfaces covered by their general elements.
The Interaction betweenHLA‐DRB1and Smoking in Parkinson's Disease Revisited
Authors: Domenighetti Cloé , Douillard Venceslas , Sugier Pierre‐Emmanuel , Sreelatha Ashwin Ashok Kumar , Schulte Claudia , Grover Sandeep , May Patrick , Bobbili Dheeraj R. , Radivojkov‐Blagojevic Milena , Lichtner Peter , Singleton Andrew B. , Hernandez Dena G. , Edsall Connor , Gourraud Pierre‐Antoine , Mellick George D. , Zimprich Alexander , Pirker Walter , Rogaeva Ekaterina , Lang Anthony E. , Koks Sulev , Taba Pille , Lesage Suzanne , Brice Alexis , Corvol Jean‐Christophe , Chartier‐Harlin Marie‐Christine , Mutez Eugénie , Brockmann Kathrin , Deutschländer Angela B. , Hadjigeorgiou Georges M. , Dardiotis Efthimos , Stefanis Leonidas , Simitsi Athina Maria , Valente Enza Maria , Petrucci Simona , Duga Stefano , Straniero Letizia , Zecchinelli Anna , Pezzoli Gianni , Brighina Laura , Ferrarese Carlo , Annesi Grazia , Quattrone Andrea , Gagliardi Monica , Matsuo Hirotaka , Nakayama Akiyoshi , Hattori Nobutaka , Nishioka Kenya , Chung Sun Ju , Kim Yun Joong , Kolber Pierre , van de Warrenburg Bart P.C. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Aasly Jan , Toft Mathias , Pihlstrøm Lasse , Correia Guedes Leonor , Ferreira Joaquim J. , Bardien Soraya , Carr Jonathan , Tolosa Eduardo , Ezquerra Mario , Pastor Pau , Diez‐Fairen Monica , Wirdefeldt Karin , Pedersen Nancy L. , Ran Caroline , Belin Andrea C. , Puschmann Andreas , Ygland Rödström Emil , Clarke Carl E. , Morrison Karen E. , Tan Manuela , Krainc Dimitri , Burbulla Lena F. , Farrer Matt J. , Krüger Rejko , Gasser Thomas , Sharma Manu , Vince Nicolas , Elbaz Alexis ,   Comprehensive Unbiased Risk Factor Assessment for Genetics and Environment in Parkinson's Disease (Courage‐PD) Consortium
Published: July 2022

Background

Two studies that examined the interaction betweenHLA‐DRB1and smoking in Parkinson's disease (PD) yielded findings in opposite directions.

Objective

To perform a large‐scale independent replication of theHLA‐DRB1 × smoking interaction.

Methods

We genotyped 182 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) associated with smoking initiation in 12 424 cases and 9480 controls to perform a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis in strata defined byHLA‐DRB1.

Results

At the amino acid level, a valine at position 11 (V11) inHLA‐DRB1displayed the strongest association with PD. MR showed an inverse association between genetically predicted smoking initiation and PD only in absence of V11 (odds ratio, 0.74, 95% confidence interval, 0.59–0.93, PInteraction = 0.028).In silicopredictions of the influence of V11 and smoking‐induced modifications of α‐synuclein on binding affinity showed findings consistent with this interaction pattern.

Conclusions

Despite being one of the most robust findings in PD research, the mechanisms underlying the inverse association between smoking and PD remain unknown. Our findings may help better understand this association. © 2022 The Authors.Movement Disorderspublished by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Improved detection limits of J‐coupled neurometabolites in the human brain at 7 T with a J‐refocused sLASER sequence
Authors: Najac Chloé , Boer Vincent O. , Kan Hermien E. , Webb Andrew G. , Ronen Itamar
Published: July 2022

In a standard spin echo, the time evolution due to homonuclear couplings is not reversed, leading to echo time (TE)‐dependent modulation of the signal amplitude and signal loss in the case of overlapping multiplet resonances. This has an adverse effect on quantification of several important metabolites such as glutamate and glutamine. Here, we propose a J‐refocused variant of the sLASER sequence (J‐sLASER) to improve quantification of J‐coupled metabolites at ultrahigh field (UHF). The use of the sLASER sequence is particularly advantageous at UHF as it minimizes chemical shift displacement error and results in relatively homogenous refocusing. We simulated the MRS signal from brain metabolites over a broad range of TE values with sLASER and J‐sLASER, and showed that the signal of J‐coupled metabolites was increased with J‐sLASER with TE values up to ~80 ms. We further simulated “brain‐like” spectra with both sequences at the shortest TE available on our scanner. We showed that, despite the slightly longer TE, the J‐sLASER sequence results in significantly lower Cramer–Rao lower bounds (CRLBs) for J‐coupled metabolites compared with those obtained with sLASER. Following phantom validation, we acquired spectra from two brain regions in 10 healthy volunteers (age 38 ± 15 years) using both sequences. We showed that using J‐sLASER results in a decrease of CRLBs for J‐coupled metabolites. In particular, we measured a robust ~38% decrease in the mean CRLB (glutamine) in parietal white matter and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). We further showed, in 10 additional healthy volunteers (age 34 ± 15 years), that metabolite quantification following two separate acquisitions with J‐sLASER in the PCC was repeatable. The improvement in quantification of glutamine may in turn improve the independent quantification of glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, and will simultaneously help to track possible modulations of glutamine, which is a key player in the glutamatergic cycle in astrocytes.
Impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on breastfeeding during and at discharge from neonatal care: An observational cohort study
Authors: Abdul Hamid Haslina Binti , Szatkowski Lisa , Budge Helen , Ojha Shalini
Published: July 2022

Importance

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) lockdown, changes in the visiting rules in neonatal units might have affected the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding.

Objective

To investigate the effects of the implementation of the COVID‐19 lockdown in the UK on mother's own milk (MOM) feeding in hospital and at the time of discharge in two UK neonatal units.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using routinely recorded data from electronic patient records. Data were retrieved from two neonatal services in the UK East Midlands region. Adjusted logistic regression was used to compare the odds of MOM feeding before, and after the implementation of the UK lockdown.

Results

Among 2073 infants, after adjusting for maternal and infant characteristics and underlying trends over time, there were no differences in the odds of infants receiving any MOM during admission; any MOM at discharge or exclusive MOM at discharge before and after the imposition of the lockdown. Infants with birthweight <1000 g were three times less likely to receive any MOM at discharge compared to those with birthweight >2500 g (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.22–0.50). Younger mothers were less likely, and Black British mothers more likely, to be feeding MOM to their infants at discharge, while women in the least deprived Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) quintiles were 2–4 times more likely to do so, compared to those in the most deprived IMD quintile (adjusted OR 2.78, 95% CI: 1.97–3.90).

Interpretation

Despite the difficulties faced during COVID‐19 pandemic‐induced restrictions, infants in the participating neonatal units continued to receive MOM in similar proportions as before the pandemic.
Effect of TiO2 modified with dopamine and Silane coupling agent on the electrical properties of PMIA insulation paper
Authors: Fang‐cheng Lü , Mei‐ying Zhu , Jing‐xuan Song , Xiu‐quan Lu , Hao‐ou Ruan , Qing Xie , Sheng‐hui Wang , Sheng‐dong Yin , Xiao‐bin Chang
Published: July 2022

Poly‐m‐phenyleneisophthalamide (PMIA) with excellent chemical stability and breakdown strenth is regarded as the next generation of insulating paper in power system. However, the basic intensity of PMIA is not enough to match its operating cost, and it is promising to enhance the performance by nano composition. In this paper, the influence of nano‐TiO2ith a mass fraction of 1 to 5 wt% on insulating properties is studied, including breakdown voltage and bulk conductivity. The silane coupling agent aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) together with the polydopamine (PDA) are used for modifying the fillers interface. The results show that, APTES covalent grafting and PDA physically coating can improve the dispersion and compatibility of nano‐TiO2 in aramid fiber matrix, thus regulating the interface trap characteristics and reducing the probability of electric field distortion in insulating paper. When the modified TiO2 content is 2 wt%, the breakdown voltage is the highest, which is 23.9 kV/mm, 54% higher than that of pure aramid paper. In addition, this article discusses the modification mechanism from molecular dynamic simulation and trap characteristics. Based on molecular dynamics calculation, three interface models of PMIA‐TiO2, PMIA‐TiO2/APTES, PMIA‐TiO2/APTES/PDA are constructed, and the synergistic effect of PDA is confirmed from the microscopic level.
Frequent hypoxemia found in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia after weaning home oxygen
Authors: House Melissa , Klein Sarah , Parham Danielle , Hysinger Erik B. , Brady Jennifer M.
Published: July 2022

Objective

Parental reports and brief clinical examinations are the primary information used to assist clinicians in weaning home supplemental oxygen in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Recorded nocturnal oximetry provides an objective assessment of hypoxemia; however, it is unknown if it identifies clinically undetected hypoxemia in the home setting. Our objective was to determine if nocturnal oximetry can identify unreported hypoxemia in infants with BPD who appear ready to wean from supplemental oxygen.

Study Design

We conducted a retrospective chart review of infants born <32 weeks gestation with BPD who were discharged to home receiving supplemental oxygen and completed recorded nocturnal oximetry in room air during an 18‐month period. Abnormal oximetry was defined as >5 min with SpO2 < 90% and/or an oxyhemoglobin desaturation index (ODI4) >5. Comparative analysis of patients with normal and abnormal overnight oximetry was performed using Fisher Exact and Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

Thirty‐five former premature infants completed nocturnal oximetry at 5.8 (3.4−8.3) months corrected age. Nocturnal oximetry was abnormal as defined in 67% of the cohort (n = 21). Five percent of patients were hypoxemic, 52% had frequent desaturation events, and 43% had both. No significant differences existed in neonatal characteristics between patients with normal and abnormal studies.

Conclusions

Nocturnal oximetry was abnormal in the majority of infants with BPD who were otherwise clinically ready to wean from oxygen support, suggesting that recorded home oximetry could be a feasible and useful tool to evaluate for otherwise clinically unapparent nocturnal hypoxemia in patients with BPD.
RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase could extend the lasting validity period of exogenous dsRNA
Authors: Zhang Hainan , Gao Jing , Chen Jiasheng , Peng Yue , Han Zhaojun
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have found that pesticide double‐stranded (ds)RNA usually has a long‐lasting validity period in plants. However, it is uncertain if any factors in plants could extend dsRNA duration. It has been reported that RNA‐dependent RNA polymerases (RdRP) in plants and some other eukaryotes could catalyze RNA amplification and be involved in RNAi (interference). Thus, this study evaluated the effect of RdRP on the tissue content, activity, and duration of exogenous dsRNA.

RESULTS

We found that RdRP knockdown in Arabidopsis thaliana had no significant effect on tissue contents of reporter dsRNA parent molecules (8.91% reduction), but it caused significant decrease in the tissue contents of derived short fragments of 200, 120 and 59 bp tested (51.22%, 52.83% and 59.35%, respectively). Aphid inoculation tests showed that the same dose of insecticidal dsAgZFP exhibited a significantly lower lethal effect (mortality 58.8%) in the plants with RdRP knockdown than in the control plants with normal RdRP (86.0%). For Caenorhabditis elegans, the worms treated simultaneously with dsRdRP and reporter dsRNA had similar body contents to reporter dsRNA parent molecules and its long‐fragment derivative (200 bp) as the control (1.28‐ and 1.07‐fold greater, respectively). However, 120‐ and 59‐bp short‐fragment derivatives were significantly reduced by 28.78% and 59.84%, respectively, which also diminished faster in the descendants.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that RdRP could significantly enhance the tissue content of dsRNA derivatives by catalyzing amplification, thus improving dsRNA activity and extending its lasting validity period. Otherwise, RNAi by exogenous dsRNA was proven to be noninheritable in A. thaliana. This work confirmed the merit of dsRNA as a plant protectant. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Role of Spin–Orbit Coupling on Ultrafast Spin Dynamics in Nonmagnet/Ferromagnet Heterostructures
Authors: Panda Surya Narayan , Rana Bivas , Otani YoshiChika , Barman Anjan
Published: July 2022

Spin–orbit coupling (SOC), the interaction between spin and orbital angular momentum of electrons, is imperative to control magnetic properties of nonmagnet (NM)/ferromagnet (FM) heterostructures and design energy‐efficient and faster spin‐based devices. Here, femtosecond pulsed laser‐induced time‐resolved magneto‐optical Kerr effect magnetometry is employed to investigate magnetization dynamics in different NM/Co20Fe60B20 heterostructures, where the NM layer varies as Cu, Ta, W, Pt, Ta/Ru/Ta, and Si/SiO2 (no underlayer) that differ in SOC strength. It is observed that there is a systematic variation in ultrafast demagnetization time (τm), fast remagnetization time (τr), and Gilbert damping parameter (α) with the SOC strength of the underlayer and an inverse relationship between α and τm, τr is established due to the dominant contribution of spin current transport in ultrafast demagnetization and fast remagnetization processes. The spin pumping formalism estimates the effective spin‐mixing conductance (Geff) for different interfaces, which signifies that the high SOC strength of underlayers results in high Geff indicating more efficient transport of spin current through it. This study suggests that the SOC strength of the NM underlayer plays a significant role in controlling the ultrafast demagnetization process through interfacial spin current transport in a NM/FM heterostructure which can be beneficial for the development of ultrafast spintronics devices.